Contemporary | Chanticleer Book Reviews

An Editorial Review of “Tightwads on the Loose” by Wendy Hinman

2016-12-17T12:15:39-08:00By Rae Ellen Lee|

The reader is immersed in the plans of Wendy and her husband, Garth, to set sail on their open-ended adventure. And we wonder how long an introvert, whose motto is always be prepared, can live in such tight quarters with an extrovert whose motto is let’s just wing it.These are not rich dot-com people on a yacht. Nor are they trust fund hippies, or newly retired people with a nest-egg, hence the title. "Tightwads on the Loose; a Seven Year Pacific Odyssey" vividly details the highs and lows of life at sea and at port.

An Editorial Review of “Ray Ryan” by Aiden Riley

2016-12-17T12:15:39-08:00By A. Libey|

An engaging contemporary coming of age story, "Ray Ryan" by Aiden Riley, follows and is narrated by the main character, Ray. The writing style is quite conversational and very British in its syntax. As the novel progresses through Ray’s life from childhood to mid-30s, the reader will learn of Ray’s challenges and fears, hopes and dreams that create the choices he must make to find his way. Will Ray be able to make his lifelong aspiration of becoming a writer come true? A solid debut novel.

An Editorial Review of “Coming Home” by Gloria Javillonar Palileo

2016-12-17T12:15:39-08:00By J Kirscht|

"Coming Home" explores cultural identity, belonging, and racism through the story of 12 year old Juan de la Cruz, and American-born boy of Filipino heritage. This book deals with the issues of generational racism and the struggles that it imparts upon youth.

An Editorial Review of “How to Make a Pot in 14 Easy Lessons” by Nicola Pearson

2016-12-17T12:15:40-08:00By K. Hess|

Pearson has painted in vivid detail the lives of these two characters, as well as the ups and downs of a developing relationship. Her elaborate descriptions of the Pacific Northwest immerse the reader in the beauty of the Skagit Valley countryside. Pearson’s skill in describing the art of pottery making as a metaphor for the unpredictable nature of one’s life is unique and urges the reader to think about the lessons learned by the characters long after finishing the book.

An Editorial Review of “His Father’s Eyes, His Mother’s Manners” by Kenneth Stokes

2016-12-17T12:15:40-08:00By kbrown|

Using the backdrop of an air disaster as his stage, Stokes has penned a compelling story that delves into the lives of a multicultural cast of characters, revealing truths certain to resonate with his readers in this literary work.

An Editorial Review of “The Politician’s Daughter” by Marion Leigh

2016-12-17T12:15:40-08:00By Chanticleer|

Sergeant Petra Minx is searching for the missing daughter of an influential Canadian politician. Her search takes her aboard the mega yacht "Titania" and into a world of sordid excess, where she is swept up in sex, violence, drugs, and the seductive and ruthless Don Leon.

An Editorial Review of “Raven’s Run” by John D. Trudel

2016-12-17T12:15:40-08:00By J. Parry|

A covert CIA mission gone sideways, a harrowing post-WWI transatlantic flight, and a research facility with “remote viewing” capabilities: three seemingly separate stories woven across time and locations bring us to the brink of an attack that would annihilate North America in this entertaining and suspenseful novel titled "Raven’s Run."Mechanical techies will enjoy Raven’s Run’s detailing of weaponry and engine mechanics on airplanes and ships, in both military and private use. Trudel challenges some widely held positions on climate change, Islam, the JFK assassination, Vietnam, international incidents occurring between WWII and today.

An Editorial Review of “Cornered” by Alan Brenham

2016-12-17T12:15:40-08:00By D Beaumier|

Detective Matt Brady is up to his eyeballs in work and about to lose his last chance at redemption if his case is handed over to the FBI. This fast and furious read covers multiple character perspectives and leaves the reader constantly wondering what could happen next.The reader spends equal times with villains and heroes, making the story focus more on the people than the criminal acts being committed.

An Editorial Review of “The Hourglass” by Sharon Struth

2016-12-17T12:15:40-08:00By Elaine Douglas|

Best-selling author CJ pens a dark thriller called "The Hourglass" shortly after his wife's death in a car accident that leaves CJ guilt ridden for reasons that are unclear. He hires Brenda McAllister, a self-help author and a relationship counselor as a consultant on the advice of his publisher so he can finish his novel. The two instantly share a mutual, but decidely unwanted attraction. However, Brenda soon realizes that CJ's new novel may be a reflection of his personal demons...and she isn't without her own demons herself.

An Editorial Review of “Choices” by Kate Vale

2016-12-17T12:15:41-08:00By T. Mitchell|

Melanie's husband shocks her when he walks out after sixteen years of marriage, leaving her to care for their three children. When Sam re-enters Melanie's life, will they be able to make it through the hardship and tragedy to build their lives anew? "Choices" by Kate Vale is a heartwarming and honest look at modern love and relationships.