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Powell's Staff:
Five Book Friday: In Memoriam
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Every year, the booksellers at Powell’s submit their Top Fives: their five favorite books that were released in 2023. It’s a list that, when put together, shows just how varied and interesting the book tastes of Powell’s booksellers are. I highly recommend digging into the recommendations — we would never lead you astray — but today...
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Brontez Purnell:
Powell’s Q&A: Brontez Purnell, author of ‘Ten Bridges I’ve Burnt’
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Rachael P.:
Starter Pack: Where to Begin with Ursula K. Le Guin
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Customer Comments
Jani417 has commented on (12) products
The Adventures of Summer McPhee of Ocracoke Island---The Pink Lady
by
Douglas Quinn
Jani417
, July 14, 2014
Summer McPhee is back with an exciting new mystery! Fans will be happy to spend time with Summer again as she tackles the latest in her series of adventures. Readers will see that Summer has sharpened her investigative skills, so much so that the sheriff has asked for her help with a case he has been working. Knowing how keen Summer’s observations are, the sheriff has wisely chosen the right helper. There is a new boat at the island marina and it is pink! The color matches Summer’s favorite cap and the name of the boat is The Pink Lady. Summer takes her assignment to watch the comings and goings at the pink boat seriously. She spend several hours watching, walks closer to the boat and meets one of the passengers, who is a girl named Ellie, about the same age as Summer. They strike up a quick friendship, but Ellie is nervous. When she makes a speedy return to the boat, it is clear that something is not right on The Pink Lady. Although warned to keep a distance, Summer can’t control her curiosity, nor ignore her suspicions that her new friend is in trouble. Something illegal is going on involving The Pink Lady, and Ellie may be in danger. Grab a copy of this great book and solve the mystery with Summer. It is very hard to put down and is a guaranteed good read. Summer McPhee is such a likable, smart girl and just the kind of friend everyone wants. I was given a free copy of this book by the author in exchange for posting an honest review. I highly recommend this book, as well as Douglas Quinn’s other children’s books, for young readers who enjoy an entertaining mystery. These books are the kind parents can feel good about, too.
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Essentially Yours
by
Lazar, Aaron Paul
Jani417
, June 14, 2014
The action starts on page one as a beautiful sunny day at the Hollisters’ idyllic Lake Honeoye home is blown apart by a frantic visit from Marcella’s best friend, Callie. Callie has received a mysterious package from her long lost brother, Sky. This event has upset agoraphobic Callie enough to risk driving her boat across the lake to seek Marcella’s help. No one has heard from Sky for eighteen years, so the sudden appearance of a package containing his old backpack filled with essential oils, a pouch of emeralds and a flash drive is cause for concern. Later that night, Callie is kidnapped and the Hollisters’ home is ransacked. Marcella and husband, Quinn, swing into action to find Callie and solve the mystery. The mystery deepens and the Hollisters head for their cottage at Tall Pines in the Adirondacks, for safety and to search for clues. What they uncover is beyond anyone’s expectation. A widespread conspiracy exists and a research company called Outsourcers is at the center of it. Sky and the essential oils are involved and it’s up to the Hollisters to sort out the clues and figure out who to trust. Written in first person from Marcella’s view, readers are once again privy to her thoughts and emotions as she tumbles from one hazardous event to the next. Since the local police seem to be involved in the cover up, Marcella contacts her friend, Detective McCann for help. He is a man that can be trusted, but will he be able to bring FBI help in time? The essential oils add great interest to the story. Readers will want to learn more about the healing properties of the oils. There are some incidents of paranormal visions and events, making this an especially exciting mystery. Those who have read the previous Tall Pines book, For The Birds, will welcome the chance for more adventures with Marcella and Quinn. Those who have not yet read it will rush to get a copy. Each book is complete in itself and both are exhilarating mystery stories. Aaron Paul Lazar never disappoints his readers.
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For the Birds
by
Aaron Paul Lazar
Jani417
, June 09, 2014
This is the first of Lazar’s Tall Pines Mystery series and it is delightful. The story is written in first person through the main character, Marcella Hollister. Readers will warm to Marcella quickly. Although she is a heroine, she is no super hero. Marcella is very human with doubts and weaknesses, which makes her so appealing. When a crisis hits, Marcella is no rock of strength. She cries, sweats, gets dizzy, prays, and gets sick, but soldiers on with her quest, despite all. As the story opens, Marcella, her husband, Quinn, and her mother, Thelma, are lost on a road trip to a bird show where they plan to enter their parrot, Ruby, in a judging. Being lost in the woods is about the last normal thing to happen to the Hollister party. Shortly after their arrival at the swanky hotel, Thelma and Ruby have a freak accident that has repercussions throughout the story. When Thelma is kidnapped from the hospital, Marcella and Quinn are bewildered. They are a simple young couple who own an antiques business. Who would kidnap Thelma and why? These and many other questions will be answered, but first, things will get crazier. Humor is a welcome addition to the puzzling and dangerous situation the Hollisters are experiencing. The best mysteries are those where characters and readers alike cannot be sure who to trust and there are plenty of strange characters and very little trust. The plot swings and twists, seems to wrap up, and yet, there is more. Mystery buffs will be challenged to assist Marcella, Quinn and the FBI agents in sifting through clues and reaching into the past to find the truth to this mystery. It is filled with surprises and guaranteed to please.
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Healey's Cave
by
Aaron Paul Lazar
Jani417
, June 06, 2014
This is the first of the Sam Moore mystery series and readers will be challenged to sort out a series of peculiar events, misunderstandings, relationships, and erroneous conclusions to learn the truth about a cold case disappearance. It has been fifty years since Sam’s younger brother, Billy, vanished without a trace. At last, there is a break and where it leads is incredible. Time travel and otherworldly contact is involved. Although the concept of time travel is fanciful, in this story it is believable and fascinating. As the story begins, Sam, a recently retired doctor, finds one of his long lost brother’s old marbles, while he is gardening. The green marble becomes a spirit connection between Sam and Billy. Suspects show up in the form of old friends, neighbors and other connections. Billy’s disappearance may be linked to a serial killer who is believed to be still killing boys and due to strike again soon. The killer targets boys the same age as Sam’s grandson, so the tension is high and the pressure is on. Lazar has a real talent for scattering clues and slipping in red herrings to keep the reader guessing. He doles out hints little by little, like pieces of a jigsaw puzzle. Not all the pieces fit, however, so readers must be discerning. With Billy’s guidance, Sam is able to uncover the truth and solve the mystery that has baffled law enforcement officers for decades. Readers will be pleased to know that there are more mystery books in the Sam Moore series. Sam is a very likable, easy-going man who loves spending time with his family and will do anything to protect them. Grab a copy and get to know the Moore family. You’ll be glad you did.
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Don't Let the Wind Catch You
by
Aaron Paul Lazar
Jani417
, June 01, 2014
LeGarde fans who enjoyed the flashback into Gus LeGarde’s life in 1964 provided by Tremolo, will be pleased to journey backward again. The year is 1965 and readers join the LeGarde family at their home in Goodland. Gus is spending an adventurous summer with his closest friends, the twins, Elsbeth and Siegfried. The inclusion of a ghost makes this LeGarde mystery unique. The ghost of a young Indian girl adds amusement to the story, as well as help in solving the mysteries. An abandoned house, an old hermit and some long buried secrets add intrigue and supply clues, questions, answers and danger. Gus and his friends are up to the challenge and work through the clues to unravel the mystery. As with all of the LeGarde mysteries, Aaron Paul Lazar brings the story to life, involving the reader in the events that lead to the solution. Told in first person narrative by young Gus, the story allows readers admission to his thoughts and emotions. Readers will feel as if they are traveling along with Gus, searching for clues. Each Gus LeGarde mystery stands alone in its story, yet each of these stories persuades the reader to enjoy the whole series. Gus LeGarde is a hero who becomes a good friend. It is to be expected that readers will want to spend more time with Gus and solve a few mysteries in the process.
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Firesong
by
Aaron Paul Lazar
Jani417
, June 01, 2014
Lazar’s Gus LeGarde mysteries just keep getting better and FireSong is no exception. The excitement begins immediately, with a tornado that strikes during Sunday services and that is only the beginning. Professor Gus LeGarde lives in a charming, pastoral area of upstate New York, but he attracts danger like a magnet. The aftermath of the storm reveals all sorts of mysterious situations, including, but not limited to, dead bodies, hidden rooms, missing money from the town treasury, a salt mine collapse, rowdy demonstrations, a fire, and the discovery of heroin in the elderly minister’s blood. That’s just for starters. As always, the reader will become immersed in the various mysteries, be stumped by conflicting evidence, and lead astray by rumors, assumptions and gossip. The LeGarde family and friends contingent welcomes the reader to join in the process of solving the mysteries that have shaken up their small town. It is always a pleasure to spend time with LeGarde’s extended family. The search for answers raises more questions which will keep readers up late seeking answers. Before the story resolves, there are plenty of surprises and lots of cliff-hanging perilous circumstances for Gus and the gang. For suspense, thrills and a truly entertaining read, FireSong has got it all.
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Upstaged
by
Aaron Paul Lazar
Jani417
, May 27, 2014
If there is anything more exciting than discovering a great book by a newfound author, it is learning that the book is part of a series. After reading Upstaged, readers will want to grab the whole Gus LeGarde series and become part of the family. Upstaged is a mystery that is well told, with subtle clues, red herrings and lots of surprises. Mystery fans will appreciate the challenge and all readers will want to become part of LeGarde’s extended family. Gus LeGarde is a music professor who is blessed with many good friends and a loving family. The characters are unique, diverse, quirky, friendly, funny and memorable. Narrated in first person, the story allows readers open access to LeGarde’s thoughts and emotions. Readers will be swept into the mystery right along with LeGarde, observing and puzzling out clues together. The scenes and action are so well described that one can almost hear the music of the stage show and see the actors performing. There are many characters with motives, so readers will be kept guessing and even the most experienced mystery buffs will be challenged to sort through them to find the facts. The best measure of a truly entertaining novel is a reader’s reluctance to finish the book and lose his new friends. In this case, however, there are more adventures to come in the rest of the series, so join the gang and move on to the next mystery!
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Secrets to a Happy Life Finding Satisfaction in Any Situation
by
Bill Giovannetti
Jani417
, June 17, 2013
Congratulations on finding the book with the secrets to living a happy life! Giovannetti gives readers a joyful and effective method to finding, sharing and maintaining happiness in life. Giovannetti defines happiness, then outlines the steps involved. Reading the Scriptural references, the story of Joseph, humorous style, and practical examples and illustrations, it would be a rare reader who does not experience joy while reading this book. Each chapter ends with discussion questions and a reading assignment in the Bible. It’s just about impossible not to catch on and equally difficult to put down the book. Giovannetti admits that all people suffer in some ways, but suffering is not a deterrent to happiness, saying “Adversity is inevitable, but misery is optional”. He gives multiple examples of this concept as well as practical advice to achieve the right “frame of spirit” that leads to happiness. Readers may well wish to re-read the book in order to absorb more and commit it to memory. There is so much to learn! Want to know about pleonexia? Read the book and learn how while we may get what we want, we may not always want what we get. It would be impossible not to feel happy while reading this book. God’s love for His children pours out of every page. Readers will find themselves smiling. Happiness is all about love and God is crazy about His children. Therefore, it is possible and desirable to live a happy life, secure in the knowledge of God’s promises. It all begins by letting go. Building on the message that our true identities are assigned by God, Giovannetti includes Lewis Sperry Chafer’s list of Our Riches in Christ. There are 36 of them, so grab a copy of this book and start celebrating. Get extra copies for loved ones and those who need help finding happiness. I was given a free copy of this book by Bethany House Publishers for the purpose of review. I am happy to recommend it to everyone who seeks to live a happy life and to know the abundance of God’s love. This is a book to celebrate and to love.
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Swan's Landing: a Webb Sawyer Mystery
by
Douglas Quinn
Jani417
, July 03, 2012
This story is packed with winning ingredients: action, mystery, suspense, love and humor . Likable characters cause the reader to enjoy the journey from the North Carolina countryside to New York City and back. A couple of love-to-hate villains add spice to the plot. Pay careful attention to the prologue for hints that may help Webb and readers later on, as the mystery unfolds. Webb Sawyer, our hero, is a dependable, resourceful, ex-military man who enjoys a leisurely lifestyle on North Carolina’s Outer Banks. Webb is approached by Sunshine Bledsoe, a young friend of his son’s, to help find her missing mother. Before long, Webb and Sunshine have gotten into a bit of trouble, alienating local law enforcement along the way. Webb’s girlfriend, Nan Ftorek, jumps on board to lend a hand as things begin to speed up. Webb finds that not everyone is as they appear. Digging deeper, Webb and Nan uncover the back story begun in the prologue and the pace picks up. When Sunshine disappears and Webb puts the final pieces of the puzzle together, it’s a suspenseful race to the conclusion. There are a few red herrings and wrong turns in the story, which adds to the excitement. The writing is entertaining and skillful, keeping the reader’s attention throughout. Sawyer has a quirky, self-effacing sense of humor that makes him human and delightful to know. When Nan disdains Webb‘s carelessness as typical of all men, Webb muses “The whole male gender is condemned because I forgot to pack a windbreaker?” He then adds ”You’ve gotta love the way women think.” without even realizing he’s guilty of making the same sort of generalization. The cat lovers among us will love Webb’s cool feline companion, Basil, who drinks gourmet coffee and dines on people food. Swan’s Landing is an excellent read for all who love mystery novels. Douglas Quinn’s next book in the Webb Sawyer series is called Egret’s Cove. There is an excerpt in the back of Swan’s Landing.
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My Stubborn Heart
by
Becky Wade
Jani417
, July 02, 2012
If asked to choose one word to describe My Stubborn Heart, it would be heartwarming. Kate Donovan and Matt Jarreau are soul mates, destined to meet and fall in love. Before that task can be accomplished, however, several major hurdles need to be overcome. Kate is a faith-filled young woman whose absolute faith in God is inspiring. She is not an occasional Christian, but one who has a fulfilling intimate friendship with God. Her acceptance and obedience are absolute as she follows His guidance to help heal Matt’s broken heart. When the way is not clear, Kate asks for God’s directions. She follows them even when her own stubborn heart aches to do otherwise. Kate is a person the reader will want as a friend. Employed as a social worker, Kate enjoys collecting and learning about antiques. It’s a hobby that pays off nicely as she helps her grandmother restore her old family home. Remodeling, redecorating and uncovering long-forgotten furnishings brings joy to both Kate and her grandmother. Matt comes in as the contractor, but becomes a friend. This story has authentic, quirky, likable characters. Kate makes friends with her grandmother’s old friends despite the age difference. The group of friends is very kind, caring and fun-loving. They are also determined to bring Kate and Matt together romantically. Matt has been brooding, nursing a broken heart for too long when he meets Kate. He resists her efforts to make him smile or even make conversation, but Kate does not give up. Although breaking through Matt’s barriers takes time, the story moves swiftly and is entertaining. I was given a free copy of this book by Bethany Publishers and am pleased to recommend it for those who enjoy light romance and Christian fiction.
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Unstuck Real Life Real Answers Real Faith
by
Michael Ross, Arnie Cole
Jani417
, June 14, 2012
BOOK REVIEW: Unstuck by Arnie Cole & Michael Ross At some time during life, who among us does not feel stuck in our faith relationship with God? It’s a safe bet that everyone has felt disconnected, uncertain or just plain stuck at some point. Because faith in God is a living, dynamic process, there are always ups and downs. In their book, Unstuck, authors Arnie Cole and Michael Ross have detailed an extraordinary way to re-ignite the fire of our faith and help us find our way into a loving, intimate relationship with God. Cole and Ross advise readers to throw away all kinds of faith formulas, programs, and other practices that do not work to provide true spiritual growth, including reading the Bible. Aha! There is a distinction between simply reading the Bible and actually engaging it. Engaging means immersing ourselves in the Word, pondering, reflecting, studying and living it. When reading Unstuck, readers will want to have a Bible handy. There are frequent references throughout the text and at each chapter’s end, several recommended passages with questions to contemplate. Cole and Ross begin by identifying reasons why we stall out on our faith journeys. They offer the “Powered by Four Solution” to help readers to engage, untangle and grow in faith. “The Four Critical Elements of Spiritual Growth”, knowledge, prayer, faith and action, will set readers on the path to a new level of communication with God. This book is not a typical self-help book. It is not preachy or judgmental. The authors offer a number of true stories provided by real people, themselves included, and these are told with humility and gentle humor. The stories describe going from spiritual losers to mature Christ followers who engage the Bible and live their faith through the Word of God. If you’re ready to get off the sand bar and sail off on an exciting journey with God, grab this book and your Bible and start reading. Helpful inspirations to accompany this book are available at www.unstuck.gotandem.com. I was given a free copy of this book to read and review and am very grateful to Bethany House Publishers.
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The Adventures of Quinn Higgins Boy Detective-The Case of Blackbeard's Treasure
by
Douglas Quinn
Jani417
, May 16, 2012
As an enthusiastic fan of Quinn Higgins, Boy Detective, I was delighted with the newest of his adventures. What could be more intriguing than the long lost treasure of Blackbeard the pirate? Just the mention of hidden treasure and Quinn is on the case! Quinn and his dad travel to Ocracoke Island to spend a week with his Aunt Kim and cousin, Summer McPhee. The reunion of Summer and Quinn after a couple of years is a bit awkward at first, but once the ice is broken, the two plunge into a fast friendship. Summer has some doubts about Quinn’s skills as boy detective, but he quickly proves his ability and then Summer is in for the ride. The adults have an indulgent attitude that does not discourage the young treasure hunters from finding and following clues all around Ocracoke Island. I especially like the interactions and dialogue between Quinn and Summer. They are both good kids without being goody-goody. They are bright, curious, funny and energetic. Their island explorations are so well described that I felt as if I were riding a bike along with them. As for discovering treasure, well, you’ll just have to read the book! My grade: A This children’s chapter book is highly recommended for kids of all ages. It would be fun to read together with your children or grandchildren. Douglas Quinn has a knack for choosing topics of interest to children of all ages. Quinn Higgins has investigated Bigfoot, a haunted house, missing homework and now pirate treasure.
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