Wulf C. Krueger
I was very much looking forward to reading “[b:Evil Games 25067570 Evil Games (DI Kim Stone, #2) Angela Marsons https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1588321125l/25067570.SY75.jpg 44752433]” by [a:Angela Marsons 7942666 Angela Marsons https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1419947389p2/7942666.jpg], having just discovered what an interesting detective Kim Stone is. Sadly, this second instalment in Marsons' long-running series didn't hold up the promise of its predecessor.There are actually two mysteries in “Evil Games” and both are completely unrelated, making the novel feel somewhat disjointed. While in the first storyline, Kim and her team have just apprehended a child molester, in the titular storyline Kim is going solo after a rogue psychiatrist.Both storylines leave much to be desired: The case of the child molester is pretty much solved from the beginning and the team is trying to find a secondary perpetrator. There is no suspense in that part, especially since very basic procedures, e. g. comparing DNA found at the crime scene against easily accessible samples, are not even thought of. The solution pretty much occurs to Kim at the last possible moment in the novel and it's kind of a “deus ex machina” moment of dubious probability (just like the culprit themself...).The investigation against the psychiatrist is even worse: Said psychiatrist, Alex, is not only depicted as a genius-level manipulator who in the course of one single session can talk people into committing major crimes. She also seems to have almost everyone in her pocket under threat of revealing dark secrets. Miraculously, Alex finds out everything about everyone in very short periods of time, gets access even to violent inmates of asylums and easily coerces the staff into violating their confidentiality obligations with just a bright smile.I just cannot buy into that kind of super villain outside of superhero stories.Kim herself knows full well that Alex could unravel her completely, and yet ignores the advice of a former psychiatrist and mentor of hers and doesn't make use of his expertise in any meaningful way. Kim keeps getting triggered by Alex in each and every meeting of the two but at a pivotal moment, she seemingly effortlessly ignores even the worst possible of Alex' attempts to trigger her.Considering Alex' super villain status, that completely defied even the already implausible premises of the novel.And there's one more thing that really annoyed me:»Kim refilled her coffee mug thinking, Jesus, I'm trying to nail Mother Theresa.«(The misspelling is the author's.)Mother Teresa's legacy is deeply problematic and undeserving of uncritical reverence. She glorified suffering instead of alleviating it, denying patients proper medical care and hygiene in her facilities. She opposed contraception and abortion, worsening poverty and systemic suffering, and accepted donations from corrupt individuals while mismanaging funds. Her theology prioritized suffering “martyrdom” over real solutions, and her approach to “charity” often perpetuated misery rather than addressing its root causes. Many still view this despicable and disgusting person as a saint, but in reality, her actions often caused harm. Her legacy should be a cautionary tale about blind hero-worship and unaccountable humanitarian work.Overall, this was a mediocre read, earning three stars out of five.Blog Facebook Twitter Mastodon Instagram Pinterest Medium Matrix TumblrCeterum censeo Putin esse delendam
If you came here looking for the third instalment of [a:Abby Jimenez' 18446724 Abby Jimenez https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1651706989p2/18446724.jpg] “Part of Your World” funny and fluffy romance series, you'd be both right and wrong. While starting out on a fun premise, “[b:Just for the Summer 195820807 Just for the Summer (Part of Your World, #3) Abby Jimenez https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1727946234l/195820807.SY75.jpg 197775193]” evolves into areas that are anything but fun and light, and—for me—Jimenez pulled it off really well. Justin and Emma both feel “cursed” - they date someone and once it's over, their respective ex meets their “soulmate”. When they realise they share this, any romance's direction is clear: they have to date each other to “break” the “curse”, and, afterwards, meet their respective soulmate.During the early parts of the novel, they meet, they like each other, and proceed to date—it's all nice, light, and (mostly) easy...»I dropped to one knee.She sucked in air. “Uh, what are you doing?” she said, her eyes darting around.“Romance.”“Justin, stop it,” she whispered. “Get up! Get up!”I took her hand and did my best to make my face straight. People were already stopping to watch. I made my voice low so only she could hear it. “Emma, would you do me the honor of delousing my family with me?”«Emma is a travelling nurse, taking temporary jobs all over the US with her best friend, Maddy, always at her side. From early on, there is a feeling of unease about her—something feels not quite right...Justin seems to lead a successful professional life, has a good relationship with his mother and his siblings—but there is also some avoidance, much anger, and a lot of hidden tension... The typical romance would have gone on to scratch the surface of these issues, create some drama based upon them, thrown in a few common tropes, and secured a happily-ever-after (HEA). This is what I expected and came for.When times are difficult, romance with its guaranteed HEA is my refuge.Instead, Jimenez takes time to explore Emma's constant travelling and detachment, as well as Justin's own issues of a different kind. She does incorporate a few typical romance traits like some (very short-lived) miscommunication, a third-act breakup (even though it's very different from the usual annoying ones), but, towards the middle of the novel, she really starts exploring her characters. And that's where my perspective and expectations were turned upside down.»She shrugged. “You don't have to forgive [...]. You can still love someone that you've decided not to speak to anymore. You can still wish them well and hope for the best for them. Choosing a life without them doesn't mean you stop caring about them. It just means that you can't allow them to harm you anymore. But if you don't think your life would be better without them in it, then accept that they have cracks. Try to understand how they got them and help fill them with something that isn't ice.” She peered at me. “If you can choose anger or empathy, always choose empathy, Justin. It's so much healthier than anger. For both of you.”«Slowly and sensitively, Jimenez lets her story evolve, and I realised that my coveted HEA was far from assured. From the moment of this realisation onward, I practically became glued to my Kobo. I became immensely emotionally invested in both Emma and Justin as well as their families. Because the author carefully depicts not only our heroes but also the secondary characters. Especially Justin's family was so relatable and likeable that I couldn't help but root for them as well.Just like them, I simultaneously hated and understood Justin's and Emma's third-act breakup. It was the mature and sensible response to their respective discoveries about themselves and, thus, a departure from the usual crap a third-act breakup is. Both of them took their responsibilities to themselves, their respective families and each other very seriously and Jimenez found a great way to show us.“Just for the Summer” with its carefully handled issues of panic attacks, anxiety, PTSD, depression, depictions of undiagnosed mental health issues, a toxic mother, and past child neglect is not typical for the romance genre and especially not for Abby Jimenez. It surpasses its roots and while I understand the criticism “not a romance”, I applaud this successful attempt to create something that expands on the traditional romance genre—a romance, though, it is.I also happen not to agree with those who reject this as “depressing chick-lit”: While parts are certainly not fun at all, the approach Jimenez chose is consistently and coherently life-affirming, though not always easy on the reader.Furthermore, I take issue with the term “chick-lit” as it is dismissive and condescending. It trivializes its targets, by framing them as light, insignificant, or less valuable than other books. Plus, it assumes these books are only for women, which I find completely unfair. As a man, I've read and enjoyed many novels that get slapped with this label, and it frustrates me how it perpetuates gender stereotypes about storytelling and readership. It discourages diverse readership, and marginalizes stories that center women's experiences, unfairly implying they're frivolous or less universally meaningful.Just like love is love (between consenting adults), a good story is a good story, regardless of who writes it or who reads it.I would have loved to read a little more about what happens after the ending and at some points, I wished for a slightly faster pacing. On the other hand, the writing was good (albeit not great) and, ultimately, for daring to rise beyond the usual confines of its genre, while also having to apply slightly more rigorous standards for that reason, I award this four stars out of five.Blog Facebook Twitter Mastodon Instagram Pinterest Medium Matrix TumblrCeterum censeo Putin esse delendam
No time for a ‘proper' review, but this book was simply fantastic: A brilliant, stubborn, intelligent, and infinitely sympathetic police officer who investigates undiscovered murders from the past as well as current ones. Extremely empathetic to boot (the Thunderbird...). Convincing secondary characters, a clever story. Very, very suspenseful, well-written - practically everything about it was spot on.
I'll definitely be reading more books in this series. Highly recommended!
I've been in need of some light reading entertainment lately and “[b:The Paradise Problem 199797582 The Paradise Problem Christina Lauren https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1697744363l/199797582.SY75.jpg 204370087]” by [a:Christina Lauren 6556689 Christina Lauren https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1730746046p2/6556689.jpg] certainly fits that bill. Due to Anna, its strong, independent, smart, self-confident, and down-to-earth female lead, it felt surprisingly fresh and real.At its core, “The Paradise Problem” is a delightful blend of wit, charm, and a touch of the absurd, anchored by an emotional resonance that feels authentically raw. While it veers slightly from their earlier works, such as “[b:The Unhoneymooners 42201431 The Unhoneymooners (Unhoneymooners, #1) Christina Lauren https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1548201335l/42201431.SY75.jpg 65813986]” (which I also enjoyed), it still boasts that inimitable Christina Lauren spark, albeit with a stronger focus on individuality and the intricacies of self-discovery. The setting—a tension-filled reunion with Liam's dysfunctional family—only heightens the stakes, making me appreciate the story even more.Centred on Anna, our brilliant and self-possessed protagonist, the novel immediately strikes a balance between lighthearted banter...[After Liam asks her not to use certain words]»“You've just ensured that these words will now be staples in our marital relationship.”«... and poignant moments of genuine vulnerability. Anna's relatability is what makes her so engaging—she's smart, confident, and real, yet still grappling with the chaos that life throws at her. One of my favourite moments from early in the book is perfectly encapsulated in Anna's excitement over impending chaos:»She leans forward and hugs me. “This is going to be a disaster. I'm so excited!”«This clever perspective on calamity helps establish Anna's resilience and wit, making her both hilarious and human. While Christina Lauren often excels at crafting relatable heroines, Anna stands out with how she handles the challenges of navigating family drama and new romance—all while grappling with “robot luggage”:»I'd love to change but I have no idea where my robot luggage is. I assume it's followed us of its own volition somehow.«Compared to other works by Christina Lauren, “The Paradise Problem” feels slightly more introspective. While it retains their signature romantic element, it's not all swoon-worthy grand gestures. Instead, the book champions quieter, more meaningful demonstrations of love, as Anna beautifully reflects in the epilogue:»The world tells girls we should want romantic, flashy grand gestures, and those can be great. But if I had given it deeper thought, I know I'd have dreamed up something just like this—an offer given with honesty and communication and mutual respect—over anything showy.«This simple thought reflects perfectly the kind of relationship Anna and Liam formed, as wonderfully written by Christina Lauren. I also appreciated the slow evolution of Liam, Anna's romantic counterpart. His personality, shaped by a strict father and rigid upbringing, pales at times in comparison to Anna's dynamism. Yet, his growth feels earned, inspired by Anna's influence. Still, I found him a touch overshadowed by Anna's vibrance, his evolution, however, felt natural.If you're looking for a feel-good read with some substance and just the right amount of emotional depth, I highly recommend this one. Anna's journey is ultimately about finding joy and authenticity, and by the end, it'll likely leave you cheering her on.Five out of five stars.Blog Facebook Twitter Mastodon Instagram Pinterest Medium Matrix TumblrCeterum censeo Putin esse delendam
[a:Sara Madderson's 20040776 Sara Madderson https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1635331274p2/20040776.jpg] “[b:A Very London Christmas 59577126 A Very London Christmas Sara Madderson https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1636456859l/59577126.SY75.jpg 93828303]” certainly attempts to wrap readers in a festive embrace, complete with sparkling lights and — sometimes — cosy corners of London. However, as enchanting as the premise might sound, the execution left me cold. While marketed as a heartwarming seasonal read, it's more akin to a tin of biscuits that looks promising but offers only the plainest, already-crumbling, and dry selection once opened.The most glaring issue is the utter superficiality of the characters and plot. Operating on a schematic level, the people populating Madderson's London feel less like real individuals and more like archetypes hastily thrown together. Additionally, there's a complete lack of innovation here. Every twist, from misunderstandings to the eventual conclusion, feels plucked from genre clichés. That said, I reluctantly admit a few redeeming qualities. I appreciated the absence of the typical third-act breakup — a trope overused to death in romances. Madderson avoided it, which felt refreshing amidst the otherwise predictable fare.Still, these positives can't outweigh just how hollow the reading experience is. While serviceable as a bit of forgettable fluff, “A Very London Christmas” fails to either uplift or inspire. Two out of five stars feels fair.Blog Facebook Twitter Mastodon Instagram Pinterest Medium Matrix TumblrCeterum censeo Putin esse delendam
Aus dem Scheitern erwächst Größe – Ein literarischer Höhenflug voller Herz und Verstand![a:Joachim Meyerhoff 4964066 Joachim Meyerhoff https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1461861368p2/4964066.jpg] hat sehr viel erlebt und darüber schreibt er in seiner Reihe “Alle Toten fliegen hoch”, die — mit Ausnahme seiner “[b:Hamster im hinteren Stromgebiet 53472587 Hamster im hinteren Stromgebiet (Alle Toten fliegen hoch #5) Joachim Meyerhoff https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1590341688l/53472587.SY75.jpg 83591747]” — für mich zu den Höhepunkten deutschsprachiger Literatur gehört.In den “Hamstern” schrieb er über seinen Schlaganfall; im vorliegenden Band nun verarbeitet er in gewohnter und doch immer wieder begeisternder Art seinen Rückzug von Berlin aufs Land zu seiner 86-jährigen Mutter. Eigentlich gekommen, um mit ihr auch über ein wirklich übles Geschehnis zu sprechen, kommt Meyerhoff erst ganz am Ende des Buches dazu. Vorher erfahren wir von seinen Versuchen, zu sich selbst zurückzufinden, zum Schreiben zurückzukehren und, nicht zuletzt, viel über seine bemerkenswerte Mutter. Mit viel Humor, von subtil bis grotesk, schreibt er sich frei und gewinnt damit seine Souveränität, seine Lebensfreude und zumindest diesen Leser zurück.Von der ersten bis zur letzten Seite habe ich dieses Buch genossen, inhaliert und geradezu begierig verschlungen. Meyerhoffs Schreibstil, seine episodischen Erzählungen, seine entwaffnende Offenheit — all das lädt geradezu dazu ein, bis tief in die Nacht zu lesen und seine Lesezeit nur ungern von so etwas Banalem wie Arbeit zwecks Broterwerbs unterbrechen zu lassen.Wer “Alle Toten fliegen hoch” kennt, wird sich schnell heimisch fühlen. Wer Meyerhoff noch nicht als Schriftsteller kennt, dem würde ich eher empfehlen, die Reihe von Beginn an zu lesen, obschon auch “[b:Man kann auch in die Höhe fallen 211160409 Man kann auch in die Höhe fallen Joachim Meyerhoff https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1718942879l/211160409.SY75.jpg 217395195]” einen guten Eindruck seines schriftstellerischen Schaffens bietet.Der Titel ist dabei ebenfalls wunderbar passend, denn mit diesem Buch und dessen Inhalten beweist Meyerhoff eindrucksvoll, wie man aus dem eigenen Scheitern (an sich selbst) neue (literarische) Höhepunkte schaffen kann.Dafür kann es nur fünf von fünf Sternen geben.Blog Facebook Twitter Mastodon Instagram Pinterest Medium Matrix TumblrCeterum censeo Putin esse delendam
Redemption Through Fire: A Triumphant FarewellI'm currently reading books from the depths of my Kobo - things that haven't been on my radar for a long time or which I was afraid to read. “[b:The Sign of the Devil 58755099 The Sign of the Devil (Frey & McGray #7) Óscar de Muriel https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1653314118l/58755099.SX50.jpg 92494326]” by [a:Óscar de Muriel 8584678 Óscar de Muriel https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1515333621p2/8584678.jpg] was one from the latter category.The previous two instalments simply stank: bland stories, bad writing, character regressions instead of development — it was Murphy's Law materialised as a book.And yet, I needed closure — “all will be revealed”, de Muriel promised for this final novel in his Frey and McGray series.To my immense surprise, not only did he keep his promise, but he actually wrote a fast-paced, interesting, suspenseful, yes, even thrilling swan song for both his eponymous protagonists and even some side characters. First among the latter is, of course, Ms. Amy “Pansy” McGray (nothing will be revealed here, though!).Like the phoenix from the ashes, de Muriel rises and shines: The writing is finally engaging again, the story expands at breakneck speed which is extremely fitting as this time, it's — sometimes literally — a race against time, and Frey is back at the top of his game and changed by it...»‘And I am sure Nine-Nails will be a bottomless pit of information on the odd and ghostly!'‘Do not say it so disparagingly. You must know almost as much as he does by now.' ‘Hardly,' I lied, the ingredients for a witch's bottle at once coming to mind.«... whereas McGray finally starts developing a character that doesn't comprise just his signature “Och nae”.»McGray poked my sternum quite harshly. ‘Don't milk it, Percy. I ken yer balls've finally dropped, but patience is nae my strongest suit.'«Much of what made me like the early novels is back, and the lengths, illogical and nonsensical actions are gone. We're back to something that actually resembles (to some positive extent) a police procedural with a better balance between science and the “supernatural”.This is one of the kinds of farewells that I for one wish for: for the characters, the readers, and, of course, the author. For any fan of this series, this is most certainly a must-read. For newcomers, start with the first novel, make sure to ignore the mere existence of books five and six, and head to this seventh one instead. Nothing of value, story-wise, will be lost.For me, this book is very likely the last one by Óscar de Muriel I'll ever read since his inclusion of the “supernatural” in the first place always was a gripe of mine and, ultimately, neither his writing nor his stories entice me enough to keep up with whatever he's going to write next.Still, this novel garners a full five stars out of five.Blog Facebook Twitter Mastodon Instagram Pinterest Medium Matrix TumblrCeterum censeo Putin esse delendam
Big drama, little substance, no suspense.[a:Seraphina Nova Glass' 8061717 Seraphina Nova Glass https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1698280601p2/8061717.jpg] “[b:On a Quiet Street 58977601 On a Quiet Street Seraphina Nova Glass https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1639154572l/58977601.SY75.jpg 88799696]” was, frankly, not for me. I gave it a genuine attempt, making it to 33%, but ultimately, I had to DNF. The novel starts with a mix of intrigue and melodrama, but it quickly veers into territory that felt clichéd and overly contrived – more akin to a soap opera than a compelling thriller.The premise had potential: a gated community told about through multiple points of view, revolving around Paige and her devastation over the hit-and-run death of her son, Caleb. Yet, rather than diving deep into authentic, layered characters or gripping tension, the book becomes bogged down by outlandish twists and unconvincing developments. For instance, Paige's emotional descent pivots to her seduction of Finn – her best friend Cora's husband – in a toilet at a ball no less. That moment was more cringe-worthy than dramatic. Meanwhile, Cora eyes Paige's estranged husband, Grant, and Georgia, supposedly agoraphobic, turns out to be a prisoner of her controlling judge husband. It's all a bit much.The writing was mostly mediocre at best, and the pacing felt like a dying snail on a steeply ascending slope. With four perspectives that sound strikingly alike, none of the characters felt distinctive or gripping either. At 33%, still mired in shallow drama and soap operatic antics, I decided to cut my losses. One star out of five.Blog Facebook Twitter Mastodon Instagram Pinterest Medium Matrix TumblrCeterum censeo Putin esse delendam
I came to reading this by way of alleviating my fear of being let-down by my next read because the previous one had been so perfect. A good plan (thanks, Berengaria, for looking this up and letting me know!) — till it met with the reality of this novel, “[b:Because of You 216311550 Because of You (Laws of You) Samantha Brinn https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1720581686l/216311550.SY75.jpg 216169953]”, [a:Samantha Brinn's 48996679 Samantha Brinn https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1710660675p2/48996679.jpg] debut novel and the first instalment of her “Laws of You” series.“Because” features some of the same strength the second novel has: No third-act breakup, a very nice, kind, and even somewhat cosy friends-to-lovers story with Hallie, another strong and independent lawyer, at its centre. Her love interest is her life-long best friend Ben who comes across as a very likeable, decent, and down-to-earth man.Their path to each other is, just as Brinn mentions in her acknowledgements, “a warm hug of a story” and I read for long stretches under a soft, warm blanket in extremely comfortable armchairs.There was some non-relationship drama, but there were no real disappointments — just not the kind of sensitivity and other highlights I found in “[b:When I'm With You 220225863 When I'm With You (Laws of You) Samantha Brinn https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1728399272l/220225863.SY75.jpg 222416176]”.Maybe I should have expected it since I do love my coloured spreadsheets as well and one of my former bosses (hi, Thomas!) once called a “Methoden-Monster”, meaning “Problem-solving Machine”. I'm less of a people pleaser like Hallie and more of a workaholic and problem-solver like Julie - so how could I not like her book more than Hallie's? ;)Either way, if you're looking for a sweet contemporary romance “[b:Because of You 216311550 Because of You (Laws of You) Samantha Brinn https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1720581686l/216311550.SY75.jpg 216169953]” will likely not disappoint. If you want to read one that's slightly more evenly paced, fewer sex scenes than in this one (which had more than just one too many), features the most root-worthy couple, and has an ending that even surpasses “Because of You”'s lovely and fitting one, take a look at “[b:When I'm With You 220225863 When I'm With You (Laws of You) Samantha Brinn https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1728399272l/220225863.SY75.jpg 222416176]”. They can be read independently of each other and in any order.Four stars out of five.Blog Facebook Twitter Mastodon Instagram Pinterest Medium Matrix TumblrCeterum censeo Putin esse delendam
I read my first romance novel at the tender age of 43. I had realised I couldn't claim to read anything till I had tried romance at least once. It was fun, light, spicy, and provided a nice diversion. Since then, I've read a lot of the “big names” in romance and enjoyed a good lot of them.Along on my Goodreads feed comes “[b:When I'm With You 220225863 When I'm With You (Laws of You) Samantha Brinn https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1728399272l/220225863.SY75.jpg 222416176]” with a mediocre cover by [a:Samantha Brinn 48996679 Samantha Brinn https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1710660675p2/48996679.jpg] — a name that was completely unfamiliar to me. On a whim, I decided to make it my next read, since I was looking for a pleasant diversion. What I got was a novel that actually plays in a completely different league than pretty much any other romance I've read so far.From page one to the very last one, I was captivated: Both Julie (30), a sharp-tongued, quick-witted, strong, fierce, meticulous lawyer, and Asher (31), a football quarterback (don't worry, I don't know what that means and still don't care) have their respective issues — and they both hide a lot; from themselves, the world and each other. Then Asher accidentally discovers one of Julie's secrets and reacts so spectacularly well that she joins him on a road trip to visit his family.What follows is an empathic, sensitive journey to the very core of their issues. There are the usual ingredients of a rom-com: banter, hilarious ideas, small mishaps. Step by step, though, Julie and Asher get to know each other and, shockingly, they communicate like the adults they are. Together, they find brilliant solutions to overcome their reservations, fears and inhibitions.»“I'm afraid you'll walk away once you hear what I have to say.”“I won't.” I'm starting to think there is nothing on earth that would make me walk away from this man. He could tell me he killed someone, and I would grab a shovel to help bury the body, law license be damned. “I swear I won't. You're safe with me too, you know. We can be safe with each other.” I feel the truth of those words more deeply than I have felt anything in my life. I want to be his safe place, because he is absolutely, undoubtedly mine.«It was such a joy to read their well-written, sensitively depicted story, I became worried about my usual gripes: A third-act breakup (usually badly handled, for nonsensical reasons, or just plain unnecessary), communication breakdowns (yes, people can be bad at that but don't make it a major plot device!), badly presented smut (intimacy is, obviously, an important aspect of adult life so handle it carefully) — in contemporary romance one usually encounters at least one of those.None of that is here: There is some drama but in the context of the story, every single part of it makes sense. There's no breakup but “organic growth” with each other, towards each other and independently of each other. It was glorious to read this till the last page — and I'm worried about my next read now because I'm pretty sure it won't reach this level of greatness...Yes, there is the usual one-bed-only part — but does it play out the usual way? Absolutely, yes, and absolutely not, no. Even in the small details, Brinn writes so sensitively and empathetically that I smiled, laughed, and cried and experienced everything in between. I have never rooted so intensively for any fictitious couple before.In a romance, I prefer an open bedroom door — and I got it here. The scenes of their growing intimacy were so tender, empathic, wholesome even, and deeply human — and all the more smoking hot for it.Not only are our protagonists well-written but the secondary characters - the families and friends - are beautifully depicted as well and I loved reading about the interactions between each and every one of them.A parent of three amazing adults myself, I also found myself deeply sympathising with these book parents.»You never know, as a parent, whether you're making the right decisions at the time, and sometimes you only figure it out years later. I'm sorry for that, Jules. I should have done it differently.«Maybe this is, in part, a wish fulfilment fantasy (“a man written by a woman” as the novel puts it) but either way: I sincerely wish for every single person out there to find this kind of love. (And am happy to report, my wife and I did 25 years ago.)Maybe you're thinking I'm not critical enough now but while the “perfect book” doesn't exist, this comes pretty close: The pacing is on-point. The usual tropes are skillfully avoided and, if they exist, handled with such almost unprecedented care and in a way that makes them feel entirely different. Maybe there's precisely one intimate scene too many but I for one can easily forgive that.I lost sleep over “When I'm with You” and it garners the easiest and most heart-felt five stars out of five in a very long time.Blog Facebook Twitter Mastodon Instagram Pinterest Medium Matrix TumblrCeterum censeo Putin esse delendam
Endlich wieder ein Kluftinger, den man gern liest!Die letzten beiden Kluftinger-Krimis fand ich nicht gut; der letzte, “[b:Affenhitze 60565109 Affenhitze Kluftingers neuer Fall (Kommissar Kluftinger, #12) Volker Klüpfel https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1646639410l/60565109.SY75.jpg 95459128]”, war eine vollkommene Klamauk-Katastrophe mit Kluftinger als widerlichem, mobbendem alten weissen Mann. Danach sollte Schluss mit Kluftinger und seinen beiden aus der Zeit gefallenen Autoren für mich sein.Dann kam “Druckfrisch” mit Denis Scheck, der Regional-Krimis - oft zurecht - üblicherweise gar nicht mag, und ausgerechnet Scheck fand diesen neuen Band “Tierisch gut”. Und auch in diesem Fall hat er Recht: “[b:Lückenbüßer 210821812 Lückenbüßer Kluftinger ermittelt (Kommissar Kluftinger, #13) Volker Klüpfel https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1716885028l/210821812.SY75.jpg 217044822]” präsentiert uns einen Kluftinger, der, mittlerweile Interims-Polizeipräsident, plötzlich wieder denkt, seine Kolleg_innen (meist) anständig behandelt und von dem ich mich nicht mehr von Ekel erfüllt abwenden muss.In der kurzzeitig etwas zu sehr raumgreifenden Nebengeschichte treten Kluftinger und Langhammer bei den Lokalwahlen gegeneinander an. Kluftinger, der sich eigentlich nur als der titelgebende Lückenbüßer aufstellen ließ, läßt sich schnell vom Wahlkampffieber mit- und hinreißen. Als jedoch Langhammer... Aber das müsst Ihr bei Interesse schon selbst lesen. Und gut lesbar ist dieser Roman des Autoren-Duos, dessen wohl geistig gesündere Hälfte sich durchgesetzt hat, allemal: Der zu untersuchende Mord tritt zwar zeitweise ein wenig zu sehr in den Hintergrund und seine eher antiklimaktische Auflösung hat mich nicht vollständig überzeugt, aber endlich ist “Klufti” wieder unterhaltsam und man kann sich (weitgehend) ohne Fremdschämen im fiktiven Altusried wieder zuhause fühlen.Dabei gibt es wieder viele dieser typischen “Klufti-Momente”...»Unten angekommen, ließ er Leipert allerdings erst nach mehrmaliger Ermahnung, strengstes Stillschweigen zu wahren und niemandem gegenüber ein Sterbenswörtchen zu verlieren, ins Auto steigen. Wer konnte schon voraussehen, welche negativen Konsequenzen es haben würde, wenn der Journalist seine geheimen Pilzplätze verriet?»Ach so, ja, und bitt'schön nix wegen den Ermittlungen in die Zeitung!«, schob er noch halbherzig nach und verabschiedete sich.«... nicht zuletzt auch im Umgang mit seinem Arzt(-freund) Langhammer. Trotzdem grenzt es fast an Satire, wenn Langhammer über seine Angestellten spricht:»Aber in der Praxis habe ich ja meine Mädels.«»Weibliche Bodyguards?«»Meine Sprechstundenhilfen.«Kluftinger verstand nicht. »Was nützen die Ihnen denn?«»Das sind meine menschlichen Schutzschilde.«Dies zeigt, dass die Autoren zwar immer noch eine Menge Spaß mit ihren Figuren haben, der Humor aber treffsicherer und angenehmer dosiert wurde als in den letzten Büchern.Erfreulich fand ich auch, dass die Autoren ohne Scheu und fast “unverschleiert” den Neo-Nazis der AfD einen erzählerischen Tritt in die Weichteile verpassen. Merke: Wer Nazis wählt, ist ein Nazi.(Das gilt natürlich gleichermaßen auch für US-Amerikaner, die einen verurteilten Straftäter, Rassisten und Vergewaltiger anstatt einer kompetenten Frau zum Präsidenten wählen.)Wer die letzten Kluftinger-Krimis nicht mochte, die Vorgängerbände aber vielleicht doch zu schätzen wusste, kann beruhigt zu dieser Lektüre greifen. Einzig der Preis (eBook: EUR 20, Hardcover: EUR 25) trübt ein wenig das positive Bild - aber das ist der Verlag, Ullstein, und die unsägliche Buchpreisbindung.Vier von fünf Sternen.Blog Facebook Twitter Mastodon Instagram Pinterest Medium Matrix TumblrCeterum censeo Putin esse delendam
“[b:We'll Prescribe You a Cat 209891170 We'll Prescribe You a Cat Syou Ishida https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1711043307l/209891170.SX50.jpg 210659078]” by [a:Syou Ishida 48196256 Syou Ishida https://s.gr-assets.com/assets/nophoto/user/u_50x66-632230dc9882b4352d753eedf9396530.png] is a peculiar attempt at blending magical realism and episodic storytelling, but one that ultimately veers off course. While on the surface it shares superficial similarities with “[b:The Travelling Cat Chronicles 40961230 The Travelling Cat Chronicles Hiro Arikawa https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1532711745l/40961230.SX50.jpg 50618763]”, the comparison hardly holds due to the stark differences in execution and tone. Unfortunately, “We'll Prescribe You a Cat” leans heavily into clichés, offering overdoses of preachy content and saccharine lessons that come across as formulaic and forced.The novel presents a range of short vignettes, promising to deliver moments of heartfelt connection between humans and their feline counterparts. However, the episodic nature makes each chapter feel disconnected and shallow. Rather than a cohesive story, the book presents a series of almost obligatory moral lessons, which feel more esoteric than engaging. The subtlety I hoped for is utterly missing here. »”Everyone is delighted by your reactions”. Before he knew it, the sincere words had dropped out of Koga's mouth. “Your compliments bring people joy. I think that's great.”«Reading moments like this felt more like being spoon-fed life advice than becoming emotionally involved in a character's journey. The translation doesn't help either, as it often borders on clunky and sometimes detracts from what could be poignant moments. At times, it even feels like the novel is dunking one's nose into moral teachings rather than letting the story naturally unfold. Though there are some tender moments and nice ideas, this novel, sadly, misses the mark.Two stars out of five.Blog Facebook Twitter Mastodon Instagram Pinterest Medium Matrix TumblrCeterum censeo Putin esse delendam
“[b:The Grand Sophy 261689 The Grand Sophy Georgette Heyer https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1414731822l/261689.SY75.jpg 3234291]” by [a:Georgette Heyer 18067 Georgette Heyer https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1336748892p2/18067.jpg] delivered exactly what I expected: a sparkling, if somewhat dated, Regency romance. At times, it felt stuffy and blustery, especially in the dialogue, where I found myself struggling with the verbosity of certain characters.»Really, Horace, I must say that I think that most unjust of you, for how could he help it? It is so mortifying for him! And, what is more, excessively unfortunate, because I don't doubt that had he been able to attach Cecilia... But no one can deny that nothing could be more ill-timed than Charlbury's mumps!« This type of rambling speech made the beginning of the book feel quite slow for me. The social dynamics and constant talk of marriages seemed quaint and twee—typical of early 20th-century historical fiction, yet it grated on me initially. However, as the story progressed and Sophy's vivacious nature took centre stage, the novel became utterly irresistible. From orchestrating romantic entanglements to causing delightful mayhem, Sophy is a force of nature.Though it's tempting to dismiss such stories as too formulaic or predictable, Heyer demonstrates masterful pacing. Her truly witty writing, far better than many imitators in the Regency romance genre, propelled the latter half of the book to become a page-turner of the highest degree. While old-fashioned in certain areas, “Sophy” holds up far better than many of her contemporaries.Four out of five stars.Blog Facebook Twitter Mastodon Instagram Pinterest Medium Matrix TumblrCeterum censeo Putin esse delendam
My expectations were naturally high as I ventured back alongside [a:Michael Connelly's 12470 Michael Connelly https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1539114448p2/12470.jpg] Harry Bosch as he re-joins the force in “[b:The Closers 32505 The Closers (Harry Bosch, #11; Harry Bosch Universe, #15) Michael Connelly https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1388262627l/32505.SY75.jpg 590167]”. This novel does bring a different tempo, quite unlike the whirlwind of suspense we often associate with Bosch's live-wire cases. Instead, he delves into a cold case, bringing a slower, perhaps more methodical, feel to this venture. Initially, my excitement ebbed slightly as the urgency I'm familiar with in Bosch novels was subdued due to the nature of a cold case. However, as Bosch's intricate world unfurled, the story's pace began to pick up, rendering my initial reservations (mostly) moot. Detours from urgency can indeed provide new spaces for character exploration and narrative depth. This novel proved that slow-burning embers could have the potential to ignite an inferno.The inclusion, perhaps reintroduction, of Irvin Irving added a nuanced blend to the storyline. Though I found Irving's character portrayal to be somewhat dissonant with previous depictions, it provided a refreshing dimension. It's these unexpected character arcs that might polarise views but undeniably stir the plot's dynamic.Also, Kizmin “Kiz” Rider's return from administrative duties to being Harry's partner on “sixth floor” made for a welcome addition. Sadly, she remains somewhat bland and underused but at least she's back.Lastly, the narrative's gradual acceleration led to a climax that, while not as adrenaline-pumped as some of Connelly's others, was satisfyingly appropriate given the plot's trajectory.Connelly proves with “The Closers” that revisiting cold cases need not be a cold affair; rather, it can kindle new respect for nuances in crime-solving that fresher cases rarely provide the space to explore. While the novel initially felt like a quiet murmur compared to the thunderous exploits of Bosch, it evolved nicely into a rhythmic soliloquy, deserving a solid four-star rating.Blog Facebook Twitter Mastodon Instagram Pinterest Medium Matrix TumblrCeterum censeo Putin esse delendam
“[b:Starter Villain 61885029 Starter Villain John Scalzi https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1683564155l/61885029.SY75.jpg 97563902]” by [a:John Scalzi 4763 John Scalzi https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1724435824p2/4763.jpg] is a light, fast-paced read filled with Scalzi's characteristic wit and humour. I approached the book expecting an entertaining romp, but unfortunately, while it had moments of genuine charm, it often felt too shallow and predictable to leave a lasting impact. It's a story that adheres closely to a wish-fulfilment fantasy setup — a relatively ordinary protagonist finds himself embroiled in a world of supervillains, talking cats, and evil corporations. However, the execution falls a bit flat.Scalzi's success with the Old Man's War series and Redshirts lies in his ability to blend humour with substance, and in comparison, Starter Villain seems to lack the depth and complexity of his earlier works. The novel is full of zany situations, but it all feels rather surface-level, with little emotional heft or character development. Even with its quick pacing, the stakes never felt particularly high, and I found myself detached from the outcome.That said, Scalzi's humour shines through, and there are definitely laugh-out-loud moments. A particularly amusing element is the talking cats, who inject a level of absurdity that I imagine would appeal to fans of Scalzi's quirkier side. Moreover, the dialogue crackles with the same snappy back-and-forth that readers have come to expect from the author.Ultimately, Starter Villain is one of those books that's easy to pick up and put down. It's fun in the moment, but for readers who crave something with more complexity or deeper world-building, it might not be the offering that best represents Scalzi's talents.Three out of five stars.Blog Facebook Twitter Mastodon Instagram Pinterest Medium Matrix TumblrCeterum censeo Putin esse delendam
I actually read this a while ago - at the end of August. Deeply entrenched in executing my father's last will (which I still am), foregoing Goodreads and pretty much anything for weeks, my life felt like being “on-hold” (which it still does to some extent). I needed something light and fun and, well, it was pretty good...As with her previous works, [a:Abby Jimenez 18446724 Abby Jimenez https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1651706989p2/18446724.jpg] masterfully balances humour with heart, crafting a story that can make you laugh one moment and tug at your emotions the next. While it shares the same warmth and wit as [b:The Friend Zone 41945163 The Friend Zone (The Friend Zone, #1) Abby Jimenez https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1553782196l/41945163.SY75.jpg 65437442], I would argue that [b:Life's Too Short 54377375 Life's Too Short (The Friend Zone, #3) Abby Jimenez https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1593802541l/54377375.SY75.jpg 81319946] delves deeper into the complexities of living with uncertainty and the importance of embracing life's unpredictability.One of the moments that particularly stood out to me was when a character compared a small, toothless dog to “an angry potato with legs.” The humour in this scene was delightful:»He bit her when she picked him up.He didn't have any teeth. It didn't hurt, but it was the thought that counts. I was worried it would put her off, but she couldn't stop laughing. She said he was like an angry potato with legs.«Jimenez shines when portraying raw vulnerability. In a dialogue between two characters struggling with existential weight, one declares:»“I don't pretend to be happy. I just refuse to be sad.”«This line perfectly summarises the novel's poignant theme, making readers reflect on resilience and the conscious choice to cherish life's fleeting moments. Though Life's Too Short is packed with humour, it's the deeper emotional exploration that sets it apart and makes it not just a fun read, but a memorable one.Four stars out of five.Blog Facebook Twitter Mastodon Instagram Pinterest Medium Matrix Tumblr
Having read multiple entries from [a:Michael Connelly's 12470 Michael Connelly https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1539114448p2/12470.jpg] Harry Bosch series, I approached “The Narrows” with high expectations, and for the most part, it didn't disappoint. As one of the later books in the series, the tone is darker, more introspective, and delves into an older Bosch trying to adjust to life after the LAPD, all while being drawn into a chilling case involving a serial killer.The plot kicks off with Bosch investigating the death of a friend's husband, which also links FBI agent Rachel Walling to the resurgence of a notorious killer. Connelly's deft plotting shines through, as the story unspools with a quiet, steady tension that kept me flipping pages. There's a masterful blend of investigation and emotional weight, particularly as we see Bosch juggle the demands of the case with his tangled personal life, especially his fractured relationship with his daughter.What elevates The Narrows beyond a simple police procedural is its subtle exploration of Bosch's internal struggles. As a character, Bosch here feels weighed down by his years of service. The walls are closing in on him in many ways, and at times, the book takes on a meditative tone as Bosch confronts his past choices and his identity outside the badge.“The Narrows” is slow, methodical. While the story has its share of action, it's not relentless, instead giving space for character reflection—and that's where the novel truly shines.Though predictable at moments, the book offers a layered story with tension, driven by Bosch's relentless pursuit of justice.Four stars out of five.Blog Facebook Twitter Mastodon Instagram Pinterest Medium Matrix TumblrCeterum censeo Putin esse delendam
[a:Curtis Sittenfeld 6429 Curtis Sittenfeld https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1675721083p2/6429.jpg]'s “[b:Romantic Comedy 62628727 Romantic Comedy Curtis Sittenfeld https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1679496983l/62628727.SY75.jpg 97012660]” failed to deliver what I'd hoped, taking far too long to engage, and bombarding the reader with tedious background details about television production. The novel's focus on the behind-the-scenes mechanics of a sketch show often felt like unnecessary padding, leaving the narrative sluggish at times.»The sets would be built at a warehouse in Brooklyn then transported back to 66, ideally on Friday, to be painted.«Exciting, right? That's the kind of procedural minutiae that dominates much of the early parts of the novel. While some readers might appreciate this level of intricate detail, I personally found it detracted from both the pacing and the emotional depth I was looking for. When Sittenfeld could have been focusing on the actual romantic and comedic elements, she instead seemed determined to dive into the trivial goings-on of a writers' room.I found this a frustrating aspect. With so much filler, the characters almost got lost in their own plot. Sally, the protagonist, doesn't seem very compelling for much of the book. She waffles between sudden feelings of insecurity—strangely more akin to someone in their early twenties than a seasoned professional in their mid-thirties. Perhaps that's part of her appeal for some, but I found this immaturity slightly irksome.»Noah grinning, Noah using my name, Noah's ability to be warm and normal, while my insides churned—it was all somewhat devastating.«Despite all this, the latter half of “Romantic Comedy” picks up significantly. Once we leave behind all the procedural fluff, there's a decent story at the core that's worth exploring. A solid—but not spectacular—showing from Sittenfeld.Three stars out of five.Blog Facebook Twitter Mastodon Instagram Pinterest Medium Matrix TumblrCeterum censeo Putin esse delendam
[a:Matthew Reilly's 83714 Matthew Reilly https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1309746050p2/83714.jpg] “[b:Seven Deadly Wonders 144791 Seven Deadly Wonders (Jack West Jr, #1) Matthew Reilly https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1388589227l/144791.SY75.jpg 1271370]” is akin to reading a 90s action B-movie. Unfortunately, the novel fails to deliver a compelling narrative, with both the plot and characters lacking believability. While Reilly attempts to blend high-octane action with historical mysteries, the result is a muddled execution that leaves much to be desired.From the outset, the characters come off as one-dimensional and unconvincing. They are supposedly a diverse group from various backgrounds, but this diversity is sadly superficial. This oversight detracts significantly from the novel, creating a sense of sameness that undermines the story's potential. For instance, Big Ears dangling precariously over a ledge is a moment ripe with tension but falls flat due to clichéd dialogue and character interactions:»Big Ears was dangling over the edge of Level 1 directly above her, helpless. ‘I can't get to her!'‘And I can!' another voice called.West.He never missed a step.Running full tilt, he just leapt off the edge of Level 1 and sailed in a high curving arc through the air toward the croc-lake below.«The plot is convoluted with numerous loose ends and implausible scenarios. The novel struggles to maintain a coherent storyline, often feeling episodic rather than a unified narrative. This lack of cohesion disrupts the reading experience and makes it difficult to remain invested in the characters' exploits. The plot includes a vividly gruesome yet ridiculous depiction of a Caesarean delivery performed during a volcanic eruption.»A gruesome yet urgent image: flanked by the encroaching lava and the steadily lowering ceiling, the two men perform a Caesarean delivery on the dead woman's body using West's Leatherman knife.«Reilly's attempts at infusing the story with historical conspiracies come across as overly extravagant and eye-roll-inducing. The portrayal of the Cult of Amun-Ra, linked to various historical and modern figures, borders on the absurd. This inclusion feels less like a testament to thorough research and more like desperate embellishment.»This Cult of Amun-Ra has endured to the present day, under many guises. For instance, the Knights of St John of Malta, and some sections of the Catholic Church.‘The Freemasons, too, have long attached great significance to the Great Pyramid—and are often accused of being a thinly-veiled reincarnation of the Cult of Amun-Ra. Indeed, one very famous Freemason, Napoleon Bonaparte, was initiated into the order's highest ranks inside the King's Chamber of the Great Pyramid.«Ultimately, “Seven Deadly Wonders” reads like a cheap piece of bubble gum – initially somewhat fresh but quickly becoming bland and boring. The novel fails to deliver on its intriguing premise, leaving readers with a disappointing aftertaste. With its numerous flaws and lacklustre execution, this novel does not live up to the standards set by other works in the genre. If you're seeking a quality action-adventure read, you might want to look elsewhere. If you want an in-depth, detailed review, read https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1678820144 which absolutely nails it.One star out of five.Blog Facebook Twitter Mastodon Instagram Pinterest Medium Matrix TumblrCeterum censeo Putin esse delendam
I've long wanted to read some of the more “classic” mysteries in the hopes of finding another Sherlock Holmes, Hercule Poirot, or Miss Marple. I was also inspired by 1986's mystery-adventure “Killed Until Dead” in which Wimsey and other classic sleuths investigate. Unfortunately, [a:Dorothy L. Sayers' 8734 Dorothy L. Sayers https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1519840173p2/8734.jpg] “[b:Strong Poison 246225 Strong Poison (Lord Peter Wimsey, #6) Dorothy L. Sayers https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1486963427l/246225.SY75.jpg 1121561]” failed to impress, feeling distinctly dated. Published in 1930, it suffers from the mannerisms, the tone, and the zeitgeist of the previous decade which detracted from my overall enjoyment. Right from the outset, the narrative was bogged down by a significant information dump delivered through the judge's summarising of the case to the jury. This served as an intro, and while I appreciate thorough background, it dragged on unnecessarily for the first 12% of the novel, making for a tedious start. Lord Peter Wimsey, the supposed star of the show, comes across as unsympathetic and rather superficial. His character, along with that of Harriet Vane, left me feeling disconnected and uninvested. The novel seemed to revel in his eccentricity without endearing him to the reader. Unlike Holmes, Poirot, or Marple, whose quirks add depth and charm, Wimsey's characteristics felt forced and less appealing.The secondary characters did not fare much better in my estimation. Harriet Vane, the accused at the heart of the narrative, and various other figures blended into the background without making a significant impact.Moreover, the characterisation is often shallow and relies on outdated stereotypes.»“Female intuition,” said Eiluned, bluntly. “She doesn't like the way he does his hair.”«To make matters worse, I correctly guessed the culprit and motive early on, leaving me underwhelmed for much of the remainder of the novel.Despite its shortcomings, I must admit that “Strong Poison” is not a complete failure. The writing is good enough, and Sayers' use of language is undeniably evocative. Fans of classic mysteries may find more to appreciate, but for me, it failed to live up to its potential.Three stars out of five from me; I have read far worse, but I expected much better.Blog Facebook Twitter Mastodon Instagram Pinterest Medium Matrix TumblrCeterum censeo Putin esse delendam