Senior News Book Review Column---May 2014

Those who follow the blog on a regular basis know that I have a running column in the Senior News Newspaper covering books written by Texans, set in Texas, or of interest to the newspaper’s Texas demographic of over fifty readers. Below was/is my May column with the addition here of the relevant book covers….

Outrage at Blanco (Ellie Taine)

Bill Crider

Self Published

ASIN: B00DHM0B2U

E-Book

240 Pages

Originally published in 1998 by Dell Books, Outrage at Blanco is now available as an e-book from talented Texas author Bill Crider. A trip to town and back for Ellie Taine has gone very wrong as this western from author Bill Crider begins. Just outside of the small Texas town of Blanco she had made the mistake of stopping for the two men who seemed friendly. As it became clear they had something else on their minds, she thought they only meant to rob her.  Unfortunately for Ellie, robbery wasn’t what they wanted. Ben Atticks and Jink Howard wanted something much more personal to Ellie than the few items she had purchased in town at Roger's Mercantile.

When they were done with her they left her alive. That was another mistake in a long line of mistakes in their criminal careers. What happened to Ellie is just part of a complicated tale of vengeance and redemption for several characters results in a book that moves forward at a rapid pace despite the many players and almost as many agendas.

Marcia DeCoster’s Beads In Motion: 24 Jewelry Projects That Spin, Sway, Swing, And Slide

Marcia Decoster

Lark Jewelry & Beading (Imprint of Sterling Publishing)

ISBN# 978-1-4547-0335-8

Workbook

128 Pages

As the subtitle of 24 Jewelry Projects That Spin, Sway, Swing, and Slide makes clear Marcia DeCoster’s Beads In Motion is a beading book that is all about the motion. According to the introduction by the author, in addition to the motion present in each piece there are designed to make sure the pieces complement each other.

Covering everything from the tools and materials you will need to the stiches and knots you will use to the projects themselves this is a book that encourages creativity and exploration. The heavily illustrated pages take the crafter through various necessary skills as a refresher for experienced pros or as a how to do guide for new crafter while also providing colorful inspiration.

Projects for necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and more are found in this nearly 130 page book from “Lark Jewelry & Beading Bead Inspirations.” The projects and styles in Marcia DeCoster’s Beads In Motion: 24 Jewelry Projects That Spin, Sway, Swing And Slide are colorful and varied and are ones that over time a reader can learn to do. The projects here will provide hours of inspiration that can be used for one’s own wardrobe or to create personal gifts for others.

Kevin R Tipple ©2014

Senior News Book Review Column--- April 2014

For several years now I have been writing a monthly book review column for the Senior News newspaper. The Senior News is aimed to the 50 and over readership with news relevant to seniors regarding various issues, humor pieces, and my review column among other things. The newspaper is a giveaway at doctor offices, stores, etc. and can be received by mail via a paid subscription. There are multiple editions across the state of Texas and therefore there is some fluctuation in content in each edition.

My column every month focuses on books of interest to the Texas audience. Therefore the books selected for the column, fiction or non-fiction, are written by Texas residents, feature Texans in some way, or would have some other connection to the Texas based readership. At least two books are covered each month in the short space I am given.

Below is/was my April 2014 column ……

The Last Death Of Jack Harbin: A Samuel Craddock Mystery

Terry Shames

Seventh Street Books (imprint of Prometheus Books)

ISBN# 978-1-61614-871-3

Paperback (also available as an e-book)

250 Pages

Back in the day just before the first Gulf War, Jack Hardin was quarterback of the Jarrett Creek High School Panthers and he was the man. He wasn’t when he came home after serving in the first Gulf War. Blind, crippled and confined to a wheelchair, abandoned by his mom and many others, Jack primarily relies on his father Bob Harbin to take care of him. The same Bob Harbin who just died of an apparent heart attack on the street in front of his house in the opening pages of The Last Death Of Jack Harbin: A Samuel Craddock Mystery arbin who has just died on the street in front of his house in the opening pages of “Thwe Last Death of JAck Harbin” by Terry Shames.

Bob Harbin’s death is just one of the many events going on in this second book of the series. As he was in A Killing At Cotton Hill Samuel Craddock, retired police chief, is the only real person around with actual law enforcement experience and training. The past may have been buried, but it coming back to life and taking a heavy toll on the town folk of Jarrett Creek, Texas in so many ways and Samuel Craddock might be the only one who can figure it out and stop those responsible.

Crochet One-Skein Wonders: 101 Projects From Crocheters Around The World

Edited by Judith Durant & Edie Eckman

Storey Publishing

ISBN# 978-1-61212-042-3

Paperback (also available in e-book format)

288 Pages

As the subtitle 101 Projects From Crocheters Around The World makes clear, variety is very much at work here in this nearly 300 page book. The projects are divided up into seven categories reflecting the weight of the skein. The explanation of those weights can be found in the glossary as are explanations of the techniques needed, abbreviations used, and other helpful information.  Instead of being at the front of the book as usually happens that informative stuff is at the back so that Crochet One-Skein Wonders begins immediately with the projects.

Featuring project diversity and variety in skill levels, the 101 projects in Crochet One-Skein Wonders are sure to work for you as well as your family and friends. The projects selected by editors Judith Durant and Edie Eckman can be made for recipients of all age levels and would be treasured gifts.

Kevin R Tipple ©2014

Senior News Book Review Column--- March 2014

For several years now I have been writing a monthly book review column for the Senior News newspaper. The Senior News is aimed to the 50 and over readership with news relevant to seniors regarding various issues, humor pieces, and my review column among other things. The newspaper is a giveaway at doctor offices, stores, etc. and can be received by mail via a paid subscription. There are multiple editions across the state of Texas and therefore there is some fluctuation in content in each edition.

My column every month focuses on books of interest to the Texas audience. Therefore the books selected for the column, fiction or non-fiction, are written by Texas residents, feature Texans in some way, or would have some other connection to the Texas based readership. At least two books are covered each month in the short space I am given.

Below is/was my March  2014 column ……

A Killing at Cotton Hill: A Samuel Craddock Mystery

Terry Shames

Seventh Street Books (imprint of Prometheus Books)

ISBN# 978--61614-799-0

Paperback (also available as an e-book)

245 Pages

Former Chief of Police Samuel Craddock knows he should have done far more when he hears that Dora Lee has been murdered in her home in Cotton Hill. According to Rodell Skinner, the current Chief of Police for Jarrett Creek, Texas, the grandson Greg did the crime as he wanted her money. While Rodell is sure it is an open and shut case, Craddock has met the kid before and is pretty sure Greg didn’t do it. Relying on Rodell to figure his way out of this case means Greg is on his way to death row. Craddock isn’t about to let that happen as he figures he owes it to Dora Lee to find out what is really going on in this complex tale of murder, greed, and art.

A Killing at Cotton Hill: A Samuel Craddock Mystery by Terry Shames is a very good book.  First in a series that has been followed by the recently released The Last Death Of Jack Harbin one is put in mind of the excellent Sheriff Rhodes series by Bill Crider. Small town Texas where people have known each other all their lives and still don’t know all the secrets until a murder comes along to shake things loose in more ways than one.

Perfect Pies & More: All New Pies, Cookies, Bars, And Cakes From America’s Pie-Baking Champion

Michele Stuart

Ballantine Books (Division of Random House)

ISBN# 978-0-345-54419-3

Hardback (also available for the Kindle)

256 Pages

Perfect Pies & More: All New Pies, Cookies, Bars, And Cakes From America’s Pie-Baking Champion is exactly as promised by the title. Plenty of recipes with few pictures are found in this over 240 page book. Broken into nine chapter sections the recipes run the gamut and feature varying amounts of prep time and difficulty.

Filled with recipes for pie toppings and crusts, cookies, cakes, and more as well as plenty of suggestions to make things come out right, the book is a textual and visual feast. Using her experience winning 27 first place awards in the “National Pie Championship Awards” author Michele Stuart’s cookbook is amazing. Lots of good ideas in Perfect Pies & More: All New Pies, Cookies, Bars, And Cakes From America’s Pie-Baking Champion featuring plenty of variety not only in terms of ingredients but also in terms of skill levels.

Kevin R Tipple ©2014

Senior News Column--February 2014

For several years now I have been writing a monthly book review column for the Senior News newspaper. The Senior News is aimed for the 50 and over readership with news relevant to seniors regarding various issues, humor pieces, and my review column among other things. The newspaper is a giveaway at doctor offices, stores, etc. and can be received by mail via a paid subscription. There are multiple editions across the state of Texas and therefore there is some fluctuation in content in each edition.

My column every month focuses on books of interest to the Texas audience. Therefore the books selected for the column, fiction or non-fiction, are written by Texas residents, feature Texans in some way, or would have some other connection to the Texas based readership. At least two books are covered each month in the short space I am given.

Below is/was my February 2014 column …

Bead Bugs: Cute, Creepy, and Quirky Projects to Make with Beads, Wire, and Fun Found Objects

Amy Kopperude

Creative Publishing International

ISBN# 978-1-58923-732-2

Paperback (also available as an e-book)

128 Pages

Bead Bugs by Amy Kopperude isn't so much about making a fashion statement or creating a style as it is about doing something different and fun. The 128 page book contains 23 projects. Each project has detailed instructions, plenty of close up color pictures, and ideas that strongly encourage personal creativity. While the skill levels needed to fashion something close to what is depicted will vary, they all are fun and very creative.

This colorful book also includes a section on tools and resources, and plenty of information so that you can make something truly unique. “Bead Bugs” will show you how to use beads as well as found objects in your home in clever ways while unleashing a lot of fun and creativity.

Hell Up In Houston: A Jack Laramie Beat

Garnett Elliott

Beat To A Pulp

ASIN: B00F565UP4

Kindle E-Book

Approximately 57 Pages (includes author bio and ads for other books)

Private Detective, Jack Laramie, is back in another gritty fast moving tale that is also very good. First seen in The Drifter Detective Jack makes his money by drifting from city to city across Texas doing work as a private detective while living out of the horse trailer he tows with his Desoto. The grandson of legendary US Marshal Cash Laramie is headed to Galveston to deal with a client as Hell Up in Houston opens. That mission is temporarily stopped thanks to mechanical problems with the old Desoto requiring him to stay for at least a few nights at “The Fulton” in Houston. In 1946 The Fulton is one of the few places with air conditioning and that may be the only point in its favor.

The house detective, Frank Grogan, wants Jack to do some work for him and will pay. Considering the repair bill for the Desoto, Jack doesn't really have a choice. Frank said the work should be easy. Too bad Frank lied.

This latest installment in the series is another good one. Reminiscent of the hard boiled pulp of yesteryear, Jack Laramie is a man's man who gets his hands and boots dirty while fighting the good fight. As in the preceding book, the read here has plenty of action, deceitful characters, and a twisting storyline to keep readers very entertained. You certainly don't have to read the very good The Drifter Detective before reading Hell Up in Houston but, I highly recommend doing so. You won’t regret it.

Kevin R Tipple ©2014

Senior News Column---January 2014

For several years now I have been writing a monthly book review column for the Senior News newspaper. The Senior News is aimed for the 50 and over readership with news relevant to seniors regarding various issues, humor pieces, and my review column among other things. The newspaper is a giveaway at doctor offices, stores, etc. and can be received by mail via a paid subscription. There are multiple editions across the state of Texas and therefore there is some fluctuation in content in each edition.

My column every month focuses on books of interest to the Texas audience. Therefore the books selected for the column, fiction or non-fiction, are written by Texas residents, feature Texans in some way, or would have some other connection to the Texas based readership. At least two books are covered each month in the short space I am given.

Below is/was my January 2014 column …

Long Fall From Heaven

George Wier and Milton T. Burton

Cinco Puntos Press

ISBN# 978-1-935955-52-8

Paperback (also available as an e-book)

224 Pages

Cueball Boland, owner of NiteWise Security Company as well as a couple of other things in Galveston, Texas has a very unpleasant task when he knocks on Micah Lanscomb’s trailer.  Cueball needs Micah’s help because a fellow guard, Jack Pense, is dead. Jack was on the job in the Demour warehouse when somebody hit him on the head, tied him up, and then beat him to death. Cueball wants Micah to go have a look at the crime scene before they have to call the cops.

Both Cueball and Micah have extensive law enforcement backgrounds and distaste for local law enforcement which means they will ultimately work the case themselves. A case that will have links to the past when Galveston was a criminal paradise where anything went.

Featuring twin Texas story lines with one set in the late 1980’s and the other in the mid to late war years of World War II, Long Fall from Heaven is a powerful novel co-written by Texas authors George Wier and the late Milton T. Burton. Rich in Texas history and details, the book is a complex multilayered read that is incredibly good.

Compound Murder: A Dan Rhodes Mystery

Bill Crider

Minotaur Books (A Thomas Dunne Book)

ISBN# 978-0312641658

Hardback (also available in e-book form)

272 Pages

It is the middle of October and still very hot and dry in Blacklin County, Texas. The weather has not been right for years and that isn’t all. Sheriff Dan Rhodes has already had a busy morning when the call comes in about the dead body. English Teacher Earl Wellington is dead. Probable cause of death is the obvious visual sign that part of his head is bashed in. Considering what looks to be blood and hair in the right place on one of the dumpsters at the branch campus of the local community college, it appears that a sharp corner did it with some help by person or persons unknown. Wellington was a bachelor, but he was also an English teacher and unpopular one at that. As Dean King points out, “It's always the English teachers.”

This latest in the series is number eighteen and is another good mystery with plenty of laugh out loud moments. Texas author Bill Crider has another very good read in the series with Compound Murder: A Dan Rhodes Mystery.

Kevin R. Tipple ©2014

Review Queries at "Kevin's Corner"

While you are welcome to query, I remain pretty much closed to review requests at this time. I am still making the occasional exception for authors I have read and enjoyed before, and will make exceptions on a case by case basis for books that directly relate to my review column at Senior News.  The main way to be considered for my Senior News column is to be either currently living in Texas or having written a novel where the setting is here in Texas.

My refusal to accept your book for review is not a reflection of you, your talents as an author, or of the book,  or your mode of publication. It truly is not about you at all.

“Kevin’s Corner” is not a paid review site. I am just one guy doing the level best that he can.  I remain buried with several hundred books going back years. That fact, and the situations with my own worsening health issues and Sandi's terminal cancer, mean that just isn't possible for me to accept still more books beyond what I already have here. 

Senior News--December 2013 Column

For some time now I have been writing a monthly book review column for the Senior News newspaper. The Senior News is aimed to the 50 and over crowd with news relevant to seniors regarding various issues, humor pieces, and my review column among other things. The newspaper is a giveaway at doctor offices, stores, etc. and can be received by mail via a paid subscription. There are multiple editions across the state of Texas and therefore there is some fluctuation in content in each edition.

My column every month focuses on books of interest to the Texas audience. Therefore the books selected for the column, fiction or non-fiction, are written by Texas residents, feature Texans in some way, or would have some other connection to the Texas based readership. At least two books are covered each month in the short space I am given.

Below is/was my December 2013 column with the addition here of the relevant book covers…

The Rules

Mark Troy

ISBN# 978-0-98480813-7    

E-Book

50 Pages (estimated)

$0.99

In The Rules Ava Rome is a protection specialist. She keeps her clients alive while doing whatever is necessary to stop the threat. To protect her clients she has to know everything about them up front. The fact that she knows her latest client, “Paul” is lying about his name and possibly other things is not a good sign. The issue with the name could be for good reason. According to the father, a wealthy and powerful businessman most likely from somewhere in South America, the threat against his son is very real and he is willing to pay top dollar for someone of Ava’s skills. To be paid very well, all she has to do is keep him alive and not break any of her rules.

Much easier said than done.

Texas author Mark Troy has a real winner here with the book and his new character Ava Rome. Featuring plenty of action, interesting characters, and a heroine readers will love, The Rules is a powerful mystery as well as a preview of the next summer release The Splintered Paddle from Five Star Publishing.

Update from the author posted elsewhere earlier today--“To send 2013 on it's way, my novella, The Rules, will be free on Kindle starting tomorrow until New Year's Eve.”

Missing Dog Tags: An American GI in North Korea

Kenneth Eaton

Patience Press

ISBN# 978-1-892220-13-4

Paperback (also available as an e-book)

300 Pages

In Missing Dog Tags: An American GI in North Korea author Kenneth Eaton recounts what it was like to be a prisoner of war in North Korea. His story of his capture while serving as a corporal in the 9^th Tank Company of the 2nd division, U.S. Army, begins early in 1951 with a Chinese attack on his unit. After his tank was destroyed, he was forced to abandon it. In the confusion of battle he was soon captured while on foot as were other soldiers.

Despite three failed escape attempts, starvation, and various horrors he endured, Kenneth Eaton survived and came home to be reunited with friends and loved ones. In a blow by blow detailed fashion this book recounts the experiences of Kenneth Eason during the Korean War. As such, the book pulls no punches as the story comes out. Those who expect a politically correct read with sanitized language regarding the enemy would be best to look elsewhere.  Corporal Kenneth Eaton bluntly tells it like it was for him in Missing Dog Tags: An American GI in North Korea.

Kevin R. Tipple ©2013

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Senior News--November 2013 Column

For some time now I have been writing a monthly book review column for the Senior News newspaper. The Senior News is aimed to the 50 and over crowd with news relevant to seniors regarding various issues, humor pieces, and my review column among other things. The newspaper is a giveaway at doctor offices, stores, etc. and can be received by mail via a paid subscription. There are multiple editions across the state of Texas and therefore there is some fluctuation in content in each edition.

My column every month focuses on books of interest to the Texas audience. Therefore the books selected for the column, fiction or non-fiction, are written by Texas residents, feature Texans in some way, or would have some other connection to the Texas based readership. At least two books are covered each month in the short space I am given.

Below is/was my November 2013 column with the addition here of the relevant book covers…

The Coyote Tracker: A Josiah Wolfe, Texas Ranger Novel

Larry D. Sweazy

Thorndike Press (Gale, Cengage Learning)

ISBN# 978-1-4104-5400-3

Large Print (also available in paperback and e-book)

451 Pages

May 1875 finds Texas Ranger Josiah Wolfe back in Austin, Texas and very much in career limbo. Wolfe has been told to stay in Austin and await the arrival of Captain Leander McNelly who will decide one more time if Ranger Wolfe is worth it. Both Wolfe and the Rangers have a negative connotation these days and forces are moving to do away with both. Both also seem to get themselves in the middle of things through no fault of their own.

Wolfe’s friend and fellow Ranger Scrap Elliot is soon thrown in jail accused of murder. Not just the murder of one person, but the murder of several and a clamor is building to quickly hang the man. What role Scrap’s worsening situation plays in the recent string of events involving a jail break, a mysterious cypher, a strangely familiar horse, and other recent events is something Wolfe has to figure out in time to save the life of his friend.

Award winning author Larry D. Sweazy has crafted yet another outstanding tale in this long running series. More mystery in a western setting than a western in a western setting, it may not appeal as much to those who want the typical formulaic western fare. There is good reason why the novel received the “Spur Award for Best Mass Market Paperback” is very good.

Safe From Harm: A Sugar Land Mystery

Stephanie Jaye Evans

Berkley Prime Crime (Penguin Group USA)

ISBN# 978-0-425-25346-5

Paperback (also available as an e-book)

360 Pages

After a dinner with friends, Pastor Walker “Bear” Wells and his wife, Annie Laurie, come home to find their 15 year old daughter, Jo, home in her bedroom with the family’s large dog, Baby Bear, at her side. She is with, Phoebe Pickersley, a troubled child who was once Phoebe’s friend and is now dead. The fact she is dead in their house to be found by Jo automatically makes Jo a suspect. A suspect who, like most teenagers, isn’t going to willingly tell all and has her own mind as to how to clear her name.

Once again Texas author Stephanie Jaye Evans has created a very good book in this sequel to Faithful Unto Death Those who read this series in order will appreciate the character growth, complexity of situations, rich storytelling, and very good reading.

Kevin R. Tipple ©2013

Senior News--October 2013 Column

While working on a few things earlier today, I realized I have never put up my Senior News newspaper column for October. Don’t know what happened. I know I meant to do it, but with things here apparently I completely forgot. So, a few days late, the below is my deal for October.

For some time now I have been writing a monthly book review column for the Senior News newspaper. The Senior News is aimed to the 50 and over crowd with news relevant to seniors regarding various issues, humor pieces, and my review column among other things. The newspaper is a giveaway at doctor offices, stores, etc. and can be received by mail via a paid subscription. There are multiple editions across the state of Texas and therefore there is some fluctuation in content in each edition.

My column every month focuses on books of interest to the Texas audience. Therefore the books selected for the column, fiction or non-fiction, are written by Texas residents, feature Texans in some way, or would have some other connection to the Texas based readership. At least two books are covered each month in the short space I am given.

Below is/was my October 2013 column with the addition here of the relevant book covers…

These Mortal Remains

Milton Burton

Minotaur Books (A Thomas Dunne Book)

ISBN# 978-1-250-00638-7

Hardback (also available as e-book)

300 Pages

Last seen in the excellent Nights Of The Red Moon sheriff Bo Handel of Caddo County, Texas returns in These Mortal Remains. Beauregard “Bo” Handel has been sheriff more than thirty years and brooks no interference from the fools in Austin or Washington. He knows the people of his southeast Texas county and they know him. He also knows that sometimes people due amazingly stupid things. Things that can get them killed.

That is exactly what happened to a pair of idiots by the name of Topper Smith and Mean Dean Bean. When they tried to rob the Royal early one morning, Dual Driggers refused to get on the floor like everyone else because of his arthritis. Then he pulled out a 45. Colt automatic and the man who had been on the beach at Normandy on D-Day made quick work of them  before going back to eating his breakfast. While their crime spree is over, their deaths will be the first two dominoes to fall in a far reaching and complicated case that will interest those at the local, state and national level in various branches of law enforcement.

These Mortal Remains is another excellent read from Texas author Milton T. Burton. Rich in details with numerous plots twists; this latest read showcases an author at the top of his form.

Michael Chiarello's Live Fire

Michael Chiarello

Chronicle Books

ISBN# 978-1-4521-0181-3

Hardback (also available as an e-book)

224 Pages

There is a huge difference between cooking something on a grill and cooking something over a roaring fire in a fire pit, fire box, etc. Michael Chiarello takes you through those differences and how to do it safely and well in this book with the subtitle of  “125 recipes for cooking outdoors.” While there are some recipes suitable for the grill, this book is aimed at those who want to cook over open flames.

Along with technique tips regarding different types of wood, equipment, and other topics, the recipes drive this book. Main and side dishes are covered, as are recipes for appetizers, pizzas, breakfast, drinks, and many more tasty suggestions. While no nutritional information is included in this excellent 225 page book, there are pages for resources and an extensive index.  Michael Chiarello's Live Fire is an excellent cookbook full of pictures and text designed to assist cooks who want to step up their culinary skills.

Kevin R. Tipple ©2013

Senior News---- August 2013 Column

For some time now I have been writing a monthly book review column for the Senior News newspaper. The Senior News is aimed to the 50 and over crowd with news relevant to seniors regarding various issues, humor pieces, and my review column among other things. The newspaper is a giveaway at doctor offices, stores, etc. and can be received by mail via a paid subscription. There are multiple editions across the state of Texas and therefore there is some fluctuation in content in each edition.

My column every month focuses on books of interest to the Texas audience. Therefore the books selected for the column, fiction or non-fiction, are written by Texas residents, feature Texans in some way, or would have some other connection to the Texas based readership. At least two books are covered each month in the short space I am given.

Below is/was my August 2013 column with the addition here of the relevant book covers…

Scratchgravel Road: A Mystery

Tricia Fields

Minotaur Books (A Thomas Dunne Book

ISBN# 978-1-250-02136-6

Hardback (also available as e-book and audio)

310 Pages

Artemis Police Chief Josie Gray leaves home at noon in the June heat to begin her shift and heads to the nearby watch tower to stare at the nearby border with Mexico. Cartel violence has spilled across the border before in this corner of Southwest Texas and the 33 year old police chief expects the violence to flare again at any time. Her planed stop at the tower never happens because she instead finds the abandoned car of the car of former jail employee Cassidy Harper parked nearby on Scratchgravel Road. Chief Gray soon finds her unconscious and lying next to a man who clearly has been dead for days.

That discovery, a runaway teenage daughter of a fellow officer, and the start of a monsoon season that breaks 100 year flood records are just some of the many factors at work in this complicated second novel of the series. Despite a couple of flaws in the primary storyline, this sequel to The Territory works fairly well and will keep readers entertained.

Organized To Death: A Lighter-Side Mystery Story

Jan Christensen

CreateSpace (Self Published)

ISBN# 978-1481139779

Paperback (also available as e-book)

234 Pages

Organized To Death: A Lighter-Side Mystery Story by prolific short story and novelist Jan Christensen is a suspenseful page turning read. First in a new series by this Texas author, it features Tina Shaw who comes back home to Newport, Rhode island in the fall of 2007 seeking a simpler and less stressful life where her clients should not die. Her first job as a professional organizer will be working with a client, Rachel, whom she has known since they both were kids. Rachel obviously needs her help as clutter has filled every nook and cranny except for the baby nursery that is in pristine condition.

That is except for the dead body sprawled across the floor in a pool of blood with several bullet holes in the back.

Not only is Rachel’s sister dead, but the police soon consider Tina a suspect. If that wasn’t enough, Tina can’t get a decent home cooked meal to save her life, she has three potential romantic partners who annoy and intrigue her, and the killer is not through yet. Rich in detail and populated with complicated multi-dimensional characters in every role, this suspenseful cozy style mystery read from author Jan Christensen is another good one.

Kevin R. Tipple ©2013

Senior News--JULY 2013 Column

For some time now I have been writing a monthly book review column for the Senior News newspaper. The Senior News is aimed to the 50 and over crowd with news relevant to seniors regarding various issues, humor pieces, and my review column among other things. The newspaper is a giveaway at doctor offices, stores, etc. and can be received by mail via a paid subscription. There are multiple editions across the state of Texas and therefore there is some fluctuation in content in each edition.

My column every month focuses on books of interest to the Texas audience. Therefore the books selected for the column, fiction or non-fiction, are written by Texas residents, feature Texans in some way, or would have some other connection to the Texas based readership. At least two books are covered each month in the short space I am given.

Below is/was my July 2013 column with the addition here of the relevant book covers…

Arrowmoon: A Bill Travis Mystery

George Wier

Flagstone Books

E-Book

(Estimated print length 170 pages)

If it wasn’t for the road being built through the land, the isolated and decaying barn and its secrets would have been left undisturbed. Bill Travis, who manages money from his office on the western edge of downtown Austin would not have had to come out to the isolated spot in near College Station, Texas to keep his client Lief Prescott happy.  But, he has to come out because Leif Prescott and his construction company have been hit with a restraining order stopping all construction for at least fourteen days.

As readers know who have followed this series from the beginning with The Last Call, this will be another wild tale featuring many players along with plenty of mystery and adventure from Texas author George Weir.  They won’t be disappointed. Like every book in the series, Arrowmoon: A Bill Travis Mystery is a fun, fast paced, and very complicated mystery read that keeps readers well entertained.

The Gardener & The Grill: The Bounty Of The Garden Meets The Sizzle Of the Grill

Karen Adler and Judith Fertig

Running Press (Perseus Books Group)

ISBN# 978-0762441112

Paperback (also available in e-book form)

224 Pages

The Gardener & The Grill the Bounty of the Garden Meets the Sizzle of the Grill is a book designed to help the novice or experienced cook. After an acknowledgement page and a brief introduction it is on the some basic knowledge sections. From “Specialty Grilling Techniques” (pages 8-9) to the first chapter on what you should have in your pantry, the information is basic and helpful. The first chapter covers various seasonings, rubs, vinaigrettes and other things designed to get the most out of the produce you put on the grill. Even experienced cooks can pick up some tips in this section.

Recipes begin in the second chapter and cover appetizers, sandwiches, salads and soups, sides of all types, and, of course, meats, chicken and fish. Deserts followed by a ten page index bring this well done 224 page cookbook to a close. While the lack of nutritional information on the recipes is a definite negative, the variety regarding the recipes is a definite plus. Novice cooks as well as grill masters will find recipes in The Gardener & The Grill the Bounty of the Garden Meets the Sizzle of the Grill to meet their skill levels.

Kevin R. Tipple ©2013

Senior News-- June 2013 Column

For some time now I have been writing a monthly book review column for the Senior News newspaper. The Senior News is aimed to the 50 and over crowd with news relevant to seniors regarding various issues, humor pieces, and my review column among other things. The newspaper is a giveaway at doctor offices, stores, etc. and can be received by mail via a paid subscription. There are multiple editions across the state of Texas and therefore there is some fluctuation in content in each edition.

My column every month focuses on books of interest to the Texas audience. Therefore the books selected for the column, fiction or non-fiction, are written by Texas residents, feature Texans in some way, or would have some other connection to the Texas based readership. At least two books are covered each month in the short space I am given.

Below is/was my June 2013 column with the addition here of the relevant book covers……

The Texas Capital Murders

Bill Crider

ASIN: B00BV8ZCC6

E-book

The Texas Capitol Murders features romance, murder, a Texas Ranger, a governor afraid of his own shadow, strident anti-abortionists, at least one pervert (depending on your personal definition of “pervert” there could be a couple more), and other unique human beings. Originally published in 1992 by St. Martin’s Press, the book has recently been released again in an e-book version with a much better cover than the original. The setting of the late eighties may be twenty plus years old, but the story itself is not dated and could easily be happening right now considering how things work at the state capitol.

Nearly everyone involved in this story is trying to use their job at the state capitol to move up to better things.  That is, except for the first murder victim. Far different than his Sheriff Rhodes series where Sheriff Dan Rhodes is the main focus while investigating the latest murder, here author Bill Crider puts a number of characters into motion and unleashes chaos as those involved randomly collide and ricochet off each other while going through their day to day activities.

Occasionally a little raunchy, sometimes sarcastic, The Texas Capitol Murders is an entertaining tale that is quirky and funny while delivering a top flight mystery to its fitting dangerous end at the top of the capitol dome. Like the floor below, nearly everyone is cracked in this story that is well worth your time.

Charred & Scruffed: Bold new techniques for explosive flavor on and off the grill

Adam Perry Lang

Artisan (division of Workman Publishing Company, Inc.)

ISBN#  978-1-57965-465-8

Paperback

280 Pages

It quickly becomes clear Charred & Scruffed: Bold new techniques for explosive flavor on and off the grill is not a normal cookbook. This is as 280 page cookbook with serious attitude.  Adam Perry Lang does barbequing and grilling quite a bit differently than the way most of us gave been taught through family traditions as he constantly moves the meat and pokes it during the cooking process.

The reasoning for that is explained in great detail as are sections on his preferred seasonings, scuffing the meat, basting, layering flavor, working the heat correctly and other topics.  Along with plenty of recipes covering every meal and more, there are numerous pictures and plenty of informative text to make this book perfect for both the novice and experienced cook.

Kevin R. Tipple ©2013

Senior News-- April 2013 Column

For some time now I have been writing a monthly book review column for the Senior News newspaper. The Senior News is aimed to the 50 and over crowd with news relevant to seniors regarding various issues, humor pieces, and my review column among other things. The newspaper is a giveaway at doctor offices, stores, etc. and can be received by mail via a paid subscription. There are multiple editions across the state of Texas and therefore there is some fluctuation in content in each edition.

My column every month focuses on books of interest to the Texas audience. Therefore the books selected for the column, fiction or non-fiction, are written by Texas residents, feature Texans in some way, or would have some other connection to the Texas based readership. At least two books are covered each month in the short space I am given.

Below is/was my April 2013 column with the addition here of the relevant book covers……

Caddo Cold: A Bill Travis Mystery

George Wier

Flagstone Books

2012

E-Book

ASIN: B007Z9IVUU

Estimated print length 167 pages

The seventh in the series finds Bill Travis once again trying to help a client who has also become a friend. When Holt Gatlin went off the roof of the defunct theater in Karnack, Texas he hit the ground hard.  Everyone knows he was lucky to not break his neck. He did break his arm, wrist, leg, and several ribs. That does not explain why he is so upset about something that happened at Caddo Lake decades ago so Travis tries to find answers.

Caddo Cold  is the latest in a series that is part mystery, part thriller, and all adventure. Like in Slow Falling there is a definite pulp angle to the tale and a clear appreciation of them by author George Weir. As a result this is a book that is filled with missing bodies, secret scientific research, and secret military experiments. That along with a complicated mystery makes this another very good one in the series. While it certainly could be read as a stand alone, it is much better to read these books in series order starting with The Last Call.

From Hospital to Home Care: A Step by Step Guide to Providing Care to Patients Post Hospitalization

Kathy N. Johnson, James H. Johnson, and Lily Sarafan

Home Care Assistance, Inc. (Home Care Press)

2012

ISBN# 978-1-4675-0180-4

Paperback (also available as e-book)

166 Pages

Published by Home Care Assistance, Inc., From Hospital to Home Care: A Step by Step Guide to Providing Care to Patients Post Hospitalization is designed to provide readers the information they need for a variety of situations when a loved one needs help to stay in his or her home. This book is designed for readers who are totally unfamiliar at any level with the discharge and home health care process so readers with this knowledge will find little in the book to assist them. The book is in sections that relate to those involved in the discharge process, dealing with various diseases, and resources available to you from the company publishing the book.

Written in very general terms From Hospital to Home Care: A Step by Step Guide to Providing Care to Patients Post Hospitalization features chapters that are short and very general in nature thus barely scratching the surface in most cases. Readers who have a need for deeper knowledge, especially in terms of the various chronic disease situations covered in the book, will need to look elsewhere.

Kevin R. Tipple ©2013