Xpress Reviews—First Look at New Books, September 30, 2011
Sep 29, 2011Week ending September 30, 2011
E-Originals | Fiction | Nonfiction | Graphic Novels | Audiobooks
E-ORIGINALS
Brighton, Lori. To Seduce an Earl. Lori Brighton. 2011. 166p. eISBN 9781452417455. EPUB $2.99. HISTORICAL ROMANCE
Brighton, author of five other books (e.g., Wild Heart; Wild Desire), focuses her most recent novel on a world rarely evoked in historical fiction: male prostitution. As odd a subject as that might seem, it makes for one surprisingly engaging story. At the core are Grace, a penniless member of the ton, and Alex, a man who escaped from his past by joining a brothel.
Verdict Brighton provides an original story line, well-developed characters, and a plot-full of perfect amounts of sexual intrigue, twists, and lulls that allow the atmosphere of 1860s England to develop. The superb editing also shines. Fans of Johanna Lindsey will enjoy this work, which furthers the idea that self-publishing is not something to scoff at.—Audrey M. Jones, Arlington, VA
Tompkins, Denise. Legacy. Samhain. (Niteclif Evolutions, Bk. 1). Oct. 2011. NAp. eISBN 9781609285111. EPUB $6.50. PARANORMAL ROMANCE
Told in the first person, Tompkins's debut novel has a shell of an interesting premise that, unfortunately, fails to deliver. Maddy Niteclif, reeling from her parents' deaths, goes to London to get out of her own head for a while. Once there, she is compelled to find a circle of standing stones and wishes upon a star to change her reality. Suddenly, she is the Niteclif, the arbitrator, judge, and jury of all supernatural beings and a descendant of the one and only Sherlock Holmes, who was a real person in this new reality. Maddy meets two men in the course of investigating a string of supernatural murders: Bahlin, a shape-shifting dragon who makes her heart speed, and Tarrek, faerie royalty, who wants Maddy for his own. The triangle is not fully fleshed out, as Tarrek disappears and Maddy uncovers Bahlin's true motivations.
Verdict Riddled with typos, bad grammar, and no discernible logic, Legacy gathers a laundry basket–full of paranormal clichés—prophecy, dream-walking, scrying, and more—and throws them in together for a soggy load of wash. Not recommended.—Charli Osborne, Oxford P.L., MI
FICTION
Brockovich, Erin with CJ Lyons. Hot Water. Vanguard: Perseus. Oct. 2011. c.288p. ISBN 9781593156848. $25.99. F
This second series entry (after Rock Bottom) continues the story of AJ Palladino, environmental crusader and single mother of the highly intelligent, disabled David. AJ is asked to travel to Colleton Landing, SC, the site of a new nuclear plant that is producing isotopes for use in medical research. The plant has been plagued with accidents that have the locals worried and protesting its operation. AJ's job is to check out the plant's pedigree and reassure the community that the plant is well designed and not a danger to them. Meanwhile, her son's paternal grandfather is brewing trouble at home, but a hurricane bearing down on Colleton Landing means that AJ is stuck there for the duration.
Verdict Brockovich and Lyons have written another action-packed suspense novel. Despite the one-dimensional villains who have no redeeming qualities, this enjoyable and intense read will entertain the authors' fans and devotees of environmental thrillers.—Lisa O'Hara, Univ. of Manitoba Libs., Winnipeg
Due, Tananarive. My Soul To Take. Washington Square: S. & S. Sept. 2011. (African Immortals). c.432p. ISBN 9781439176146. pap. $13. FANTASY
Carlos Harris's mother, Rosa Castillo, is dead, apparently the latest victim of a mysterious virus she contracted while in Puerto Rico. But there is no identifiable body. Carlos's refusal to accept her death sends him on a harrowing journey for the truth. Phoenix Smalls Harris, Carlos's wife and a singer who dropped out of the spotlight, is approached by a disarming gentleman whose employer, the Clarion World Heath Corporation, wants her to do a benefit concert to help stop the virus's spread. Fana Wolde, Clarion's owner and an immortal with telepathic abilities, does everything she can to find the source of the infection and quickly circulate the cure she's developed. But is Glow, a drug produced using immortal blood, worth the risks?
Verdict In the latest installment of her "African Immortals" series (My Soul To Keep), Due delivers an unforgettable story with complex twists and turns that is sure to enthrall suspense and supernatural saga lovers alike.—Bianna E. Ine, NDIC Lib., Washington, DC
Jurjevics, Juris. Red Flags. Houghton Harcourt. Sept. 2011. c.320p. ISBN 9780547564517. $26. F
Erik Rider is a Vietnam vet living in rural Northern California when he is approached by the adult daughter of a man with whom he had served during the war. She never knew her father and wants Rider to tell her how he died. Back then, Rider had been a military cop, a member of the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command (CID). When he and a partner were sent to a remote base in a Highland province to investigate the drug trade, they found a level of corruption that wouldn't be out of place in a Dashiell Hammett novel. This was before the big U.S. troop buildup in 1965, and the only other soldiers in the area were advisers to the Vietnamese army, a few Green Berets, and the local CIA officer. Readers expecting big battle scenes may be disappointed as the book is as much a mystery as a war novel.
Verdict Jurjevics (The Trudeau Vector), who served in Vietnam and is a cofounder of Soho Press, ably handles the central mysteries of who's behind the drug trafficking and the death of Rider's comrade. He also excels at evocating a unique time and place before Vietnam became a fixture on the nightly news. Certain to attract readers who enjoy exotic locations and intrigue—as well as a high body count—in their thrillers.—Dan Forrest, Western Kentucky Univ. Libs., Bowling Green
Kimm, Gabrielle. His Last Duchess. Sourcebooks. Oct. 2011. c.416p. ISBN 9781402261510. pap. $14.99. F
"My Last Duchess" is a renowned Robert Browning poem with a serious creepiness factor, and first-time author Kimm successfully capitalizes on the compelling historical events suggested in the verses. Fifteen-year-old Lucrezia de Medici (but not of poisoning fame) is eager for marriage. But her new husband, the Duke of Ferrara, is a twisted aristocrat obsessed with thwarting the Vatican's plans to take his property should he die without issue—and with sex on the kinky side. As the Duke hires artists to embellish his castle with frescos, the disillusioned Lucrezia becomes fascinated with the frescos—and one young artist in particular. The Duke's growing displeasure with his wife threatens their marriage.
Verdict This strong first novel is marked by well-developed, memorable protagonists and a pacing that quickens and builds readers' anxiety as the story progresses. While certain plot elements are predictable, readers will go along for the ride to see where the author takes them. For historical fiction buffs, Kimm's details about Renaissance frescos, so essential to the book's plot, are fascinating. Readers intrigued by all things Italian and those who remember Browning's poem fondly will relish this novel.—Mary Kay Bird-Guilliams, Wichita P.L., KS
McDonald, L.J. Queen of the Sylphs. Dorchester. Sept. 2011. c.336p. ISBN 9781428512160. pap. $14; eISBN 9781428511989. EPUB $6.99. FANTASY ROMANCE
Picking up about where The Shattered Sylph left off, this story quickly reacquaints readers with characters from McDonald's previous books while introducing a particularly malevolent, soulless villain, who sends the Sylph Valley hive into chaos. Unlike the earlier works, this title doesn't feature one central love story that needs to be resolved, focusing instead on several characters and relationships. In particular, it considers how the community will survive an attack from a clever predator who wants to replace Solie, the current queen, at all costs. Still, this novel expresses plenty of love, caring, and romantic empathy and is definitely satisfying. Sure to tease new readers into checking out the entire series.
Verdict Intriguing, intense, and emotionally enthralling, this story will grip series fans from the get-go. Readers new to McDonald should definitely start with The Battle Sylph, but Queen adds depth and complexity to what is already one of the most creative new romantic fantasy series. McDonald lives in Cold Lake, Alta.—Kristin Ramsdell, formerly with California State Univ. Lib.–East Bay
O'Riley, Kaitlin. It Happened One Christmas. Zebra: Kensington. Oct. 2011. c.332p. ISBN 9781420112399. pap. $6.99. HISTORICAL ROMANCE
Middle Hamilton sister Lisette feels safe and secure in her longtime engagement to solicitor Henry Brooks and her work at her family's London bookshop. So why does a chance encounter with Quinton Roxbury turn her staid world topsy-turvy? An architect with dreams of building homes for London's poor to replace their retched slums, Quinton is betrothed as well, to Lady Emmeline Tarleton. But neither Henry nor Emmeline figure into the couple's thoughts when they accidentally share a compartment on the train to Brighton and later a sensuous kiss. Fate keeps throwing Lisette and Quinton together, but the reality of their upcoming nuptials makes any future together impossible.
Verdict This latest title in O'Riley's Victorian quintet about the Hamilton girls (after When His Kiss Is Wicked and Desire in His Eyes) takes a thoughtful young woman who has always put others first and an idealistic social reformer and creates for them an untenable situation that engages their hearts but also ignites their guilt. This lovely story makes the most of the warmth and joys of the holiday season. [For more holiday romance, see LJ 10/15/11.]—Bette-Lee Fox, Library Journal
Preston, Caroline. The Scrapbook of Frankie Pratt: A Novel in Pictures. Ecco: HarperCollins. Nov. 2011. c.240p. illus. ISBN 9780061966903. $25.99. F
The year is 1920. With her father's old Corona and the scrapbook her mother gave her for a high school graduation gift, Frankie Pratt decides to keep a journal. After all, she does want to be a writer. Via Frankie's full-color scrapbook illustrated with vintage memorabilia, archivist Preston (Jackie by Josie; Gatsby's Girl) carries us from Vassar to Greenwich Village and all the way to Paris before we return home to Cornish Flat, NH. Frankie is swept along by a powerful tide of popular and bohemian culture-picture palaces, Coney Island, the Yankees, the automat, Prohibition, Paris cafés, Josephine Baker, James Joyce, and Lucky Lindy all make their impression on her. Although her life seems improbably packed with incident and the plot somewhat echoes the pulp romances of the time, Frankie is a believable and likable character. She has the convincing voice of a modern young woman in a time of change: both practical and dreamy, knowing and innocent.
Verdict The vintage scrapbook is an effective vehicle for an entertaining coming-of-age story steeped in the pop culture of the Roaring Twenties. A highly enjoyable read well suited to historical romance fans and scrapbookers alike. [See Prepub Alert, 6/6/11.]—Julia Cox, Penticton P.L., B.C.
Snow, Carol. What Came First. Berkley: Penguin Group (USA). Oct. 2011. c.368p. ISBN 9780425243039. pap. $15. F
Laura's perfectly wonderful eight-year-old son, Ian, craves a sibling that she cannot give him alone. Having conceived him using a donation from Southern California Cryobank's Donor 613, she starts searching for other parents of children conceived with the same sperm to give Ian a brother or sister. Wendy, a stay-at-home mother of twins, thinks learning more about Donor 613 will help make sense of her chaotic life. Vanessa, craving marriage and children, slowly realizes Eric, her boyfriend, does not. Once Laura and Wendy find each other online, they are determined to find Donor 613. In many fictional portrayals of mothers, readers are presented with the saintly stay-at-home mother or the callous career-driven mom. Snow (Just Like Me, Only Better), realizing how tired these tropes are, gives us something fresh and funny in a new context. Vanessa and Eric's relationship is explored to less successful effect.
Verdict This humorous and poignant novel is an enjoyable read for women's fiction fans looking for an interesting spin on an often taboo subject.—Anastasia Diamond-Ortiz, Cleveland P.L.
Wysocky, Lisa. The Opium Equation: A Cat Enright Mystery. Cool Titles. Sept. 2011. c.288p. ISBN 9781935270065. pap. $14.95. M
Wysocky, an award-winning author (Horse Country; My Horse, My Partner) and a former riding instructor and horse trainer, makes her fiction debut with this lightly comic Southern mystery set near Nashville, where old Tennessee families live next to country music stars. Cat Enright trains Appaloosas, but a client, who happens to be a retired movie star, fires her in favor of Cat's neighbor who trains Tennessee walking horses. Three other students witness this exchange. The next day Cat finds the body of the student who fired her. Cat automatically falls under suspicion and must do some sleuthing to exonerate herself. Old secrets slowly come to light and expose the murderer.
Verdict This quick and entertaining read will amuse fans of Carolyn Banks's equine mysteries.—Patsy E. Gray, Huntsville, AL
NONFICTION
Bondy, Andy & Lori Frost. A Picture's Worth: PECS and Other Visual Communication Strategies in Autism. 2d ed. Woodbine House. (Topics in Autism). 2011. c.160p. photogs. ISBN 9781606130155. pap. $19.95. PSYCH
This updated edition of the 2002 visual communication primer by behavior analyst Bondy and speech pathologist Frost covers communication difficulties experienced by children with autism and related disorders as well as methods that can be used to teach them to communicate. The authors reintroduce parents and educators to their Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) and other communication strategies based on new research. In addition to their presentation of alternative communication systems, they include information on tools that can be used to implement the systems, such as their timely discussion of how the iPad and iPod Touch can be used as an inexpensive but high-tech communication aid. The authors include stories about children they have worked with to demonstrate real-world applications of their methods. Finally, they discuss how visual strategies can help children meet such challenges as schedule following, waiting, and dealing with transitions.
Verdict The authors provide practical information in a convenient format that parents and professionals can follow step by step. The writing is clear and concise and even humorous and touching at times. Highly recommended for anyone who works with children or even adults with autism.—Terry Lamperski, Carnegie Lib. of Pittsburgh
Brower, Sam. Prophet's Prey: My Seven-Year Investigation into Warren Jeffs and the Fundamentalist Church of Latter Day Saints. Bloomsbury, dist. by Macmillan. 2011. c.336p. ISBN 9781608192755. $27. CRIME
Private investigator Brower gives readers a firsthand look at the investigation that brought down prophet Warren Jeffs and the cult-like Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Brower came to the aid of an FLDS church member being kicked out of his house and stumbled into a case that would dominate the next seven years of his life. Sifting through the lies and the strictly enforced code of silence of the FLDS church, he worked with law enforcement in three states to uncover the sexual abuse of underage girls that the church practiced under the shield of the claim to religious freedom. After years of watching children abused and families destroyed, Brower had the satisfaction of seeing Jeffs behind bars, incriminated by his own words written in his diaries and captured on tape.
Verdict This compelling story of one man's crusade against a pedophile prophet will appeal to readers of current events and religious history as well as to crime fans. [See Prepub Alert, 4/25/11.]—Deirdre Bray Root, Middletown P.L., Dayton, OH
Cavalier, Stephen. The World History of Animation. Univ. of California. 2011. 416p. illus. index. ISBN 9780520261129. $39.95. FILM
Focusing on the 100-plus-year history of the genre, animator and director Cavalier's coffee-table volume offers a comprehensive chronological look at film, television, and web-based animations. He does a great job of never overwhelming readers with information. The narrative, which nicely ties together the history and reproduced images, is almost epic as it showcases the evolution of animation techniques that are the core of the genre. Cavalier also includes a list of essential films with synopses and relevant biographies. Photographs are well placed throughout the book and add interest.
Verdict This book offers anyone who picks it up a glimpse into the distinctive history of animation. Well packaged, with a meticulous layout, it is easy on the eyes and fun to read. A great addition. [For an American focus, see the LJ 5/1/11 Collection Development article on animation.—Ed.]—Justin Hoenke, Portland P.L., ME
DeGeneres, Ellen. Seriously...I'm Kidding. Grand Central. Oct. 2011. c.320p. ISBN 9780446585026. $26.99. TV
In her third book (after The Funny Thing Is... and My Point...and I Do Have One), DeGeneres discusses many of her favorite topics, such as how to be a supermodel ("#6 carry a giant oscillating fan with you at all times. No exceptions"), honesty, common courtesy, her bucket list ("#8 call more people rascal"), cures for boredom ("#9 photograph geese"), and gambling tips like when to walk away from slot machines. She also writes about the stuff her mom had to take with her when she moved, which included a VHS tape of Abs of Steel and three harmonicas. This memoir covers her time on American Idol and her marriage to actress Portia de Rossi. DeGeneres is very funny, and this book is a light, easy, laugh-out-loud read.
Verdict Highly recommended for fans of The Ellen DeGeneres Show and others who appreciate humorous celebrity biographies and memoirs. Consider also for those who enjoyed Tina Fey's Bossypants and Jane Lynch's Happy Accidents. [See Prepub Alert, 4/11/11.]—Sally Bryant, Pepperdine Univ. Lib., Malibu, CA
Forge, Arabella (text) & Genna Campton (illus.). Frugavore: How To Grow Organic, Buy Local, Waste Nothing, and Eat Well. Skyhorse, dist. by Norton. 2011. 352p. illus. bibliog. index. ISBN 9781616084080. pap. $16.95. COOKING
Forge, a nutritionist and cooking instructor who is also trying to run a healthy home on a budget, shares her methods for eating frugally, healthfully, and ethically. The 100-plus recipes included throughout are appealing and offer suggestions for using a wide variety of common and uncommon nutritious ingredients. However, with haphazard organization, commonplace tips, and tired adages about eating like our peasant ancestors, the narrative content will fail to hold readers' interest. The Australian author also relies on resources not widely consumed in the United States, such as offal and biodynamic produce. The chapter on preserving lacks critical safety information.
Verdict Excellent titles on healthy homemaking abound, and Forge's contribution does little to stand out. Interested readers should consider Linda Watson's Wildly Affordable Organic or Lisa Taylor's Your Farm in the City. [The LJ 11/1/11 Collection Development article will cover homemaking.—Ed.]—Audrey Barbakoff, Milwaukee P.L.
Fricke, John. Judy: A Legendary Film Career. Running Pr. 2011. 352p. illus. index. ISBN 9780762437719. $30. FILM
Historian Fricke (100 Years of Oz: A Century of Classic Images) has compiled a fine collection of remembrances, facts, and photos chronicling the life, career, and unforgettable personal appearances of Judy Garland. Within her first ten years at MGM, Garland found full-fledged stardom, complete with wealth, fame, and all the harsh truths of show business. Fricke exposes the driving forces behind her career in sound, onstage, and on-screen, which often put her family life and health at risk, while bringing classic Hollywood fans a renewed respect for the determined star. In addition, he succeeds in providing readers with a plethora of information on every performance, highlighting the thoughts of costars, friends, and Garland herself.
Verdict Much like Darrell Rooney and Mark A. Vieira's recent book on Jean Harlow, Harlow in Hollywood, Fricke's volume brings us never-before-published photos, commentary, and the most complete tribute available to one of the world's best loved stars. Highly recommended for Judy Garland fans.—R. LeMaster, Medina Cty. Dist. Lib., OH
Gordon, Dillian. The Italian Paintings Before 1400. National Gallery London, dist. by Yale Univ. (National Gallery Catalogues). 2011. 539p. illus. index. ISBN 9781857094824. $125. FINE ARTS
The National Gallery, London, is known for its collection of Italian Renaissance art-one of the most significant such collections outside of Italy. This catalog, part of a series that documents the museum's Renaissance painting holdings, concentrates on the early Italian works. Gordon (former curator of paintings before 1460, National Gallery) provides a technical analysis of the paintings using sophisticated scientific equipment; her study will evoke new appreciation for how they were made. After a detailed introduction, the bulk of the book consists of a catalog section arranged alphabetically by artist, and the artists' paintings are presented chronologically. Each entry features a brief artist biography and information including a description of each painting's condition, size, iconographic depiction, and provenance; where it would have been exhibited; how it might originally have been conceived (e.g., as a predella in an altarpiece); and, when its origins are uncertain, various artist attributions.
Verdict Owing to the painstaking scholarship in this volume, the reader will not only become familiar with the National Gallery's collection but also gain significant knowledge of the art of this period. A must-read for specialists, it will also be appreciated by museum-goers, students, and librarians. Highly recommended for large pubic, museum, and academic art book collections.—Ellen Bates, New York
Kahng, Eik & others. Picasso and Braque: The Cubist Experiment 1910–1912. Santa Barbara Museum of Art & Kimbell Art Museum, dist. by Yale Univ. 2011. 136p. illus. index. ISBN 9780300169713. $30. FINE ARTS
Since its beginnings in c.1906, cubism has been a mystery for many viewers. What Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque intended, and what they accomplished, is still being debated 100 years later. In this catalog for a traveling exhibition, Kahng (chief curator, Santa Barbara Museum of Art) and five other museum professionals and scholars explore the complex fabric of cubism at the height of its inventiveness by bringing together most of that period's works on paper and some of its paintings. The essays present dense and detailed analyses of this early 20th-century avant-garde phenomenon. Fully illustrated with reproductions of the well-known, somber-toned paintings, the volume covers everything from the "Problem of Explaining Cubism" to current perceptions of the paintings.
Verdict Cubism has been put before the public many times before, including in MOMA's monumental Picasso and Braque: Pioneering Cubism (1989). The many color illustrations here are well presented; however the typography is faint, making it uncomfortable on the eyes. Because it is highly technical, the volume is recommended where there are academics and art historians. Students looking for an in-depth treatment of cubism may also benefit from this catalog.—Ellen Bates, New York
Phillips, Allie. Defending the Defenseless: A Guide to Protecting and Advocating for Pets. Rowman & Littlefield. 2011. 312p. index. ISBN 9781442202146. $34.95. PETS
Phillips (How Shelter Pets Are Brokered for Experimentation: Understanding Pound Seizure) provides us with a comprehensive guide to becoming an advocate for animals. A lawyer and staunch animal advocate herself, the author has extensive experience volunteering in animal shelters and working to promote legislation that is in the best interests of animals. She gives readers numerous and specific options for getting involved and discusses the best way to get started. She also makes readers aware of some lesser-known animal welfare concerns, such as questionable practices that may be in place at their local animal shelters. Phillips does a good job of presenting the issues in an objective manner, giving voice to people on both sides of the argument, and she is careful to make a distinction between animal advocates and animal activists, since the term activist sometimes has a negative connotation.
Verdict This manual for animal advocacy is an excellent choice for readers looking for community service opportunities that will benefit animals.—Deborah Emerson, Central New York Lib. Resources Council, Syracuse
Teaching America: The Case for Civic Education. Rowman & Littlefield. 2011. 220p. ed. by David Feith. ISBN 9781607098409. $60; pap. ISBN 9781607098416. $26.95. ED
The American experiment in self-governance relies on a citizenry conversant in American history and government process. Feith (assistant editorial features editor, Wall Street Journal) and his knowledgeable group of contributors-public officials, law and education scholars, and educators-sound the alarm with impressive clarity about the current state of American civic literacy. Their case is straightforward and without divisive rhetoric. The included essays explore the historical place of civic literacy within the American education system, look at current and past government programs intended to effect civic literacy, present snapshots of existing civic-education programs in K-12 and higher education, and consider options for the future.
Verdict A well-documented case for civic-education reform articulated by policymakers, lawyers, educators, and academics who share their expertise and involvement with government programs and relevant curricula. This collection is distinctive for its breadth of coverage and the first-hand expertise and knowledge of its contributors. Highly recommended for students in education and teacher preparation.—Jane Scott, George Fox Univ. Lib., Newberg, OR
Young, Valerie. The Secret Thoughts of Successful Women: Why Capable People Suffer from the Imposter Syndrome and How To Thrive in Spite of It. Crown Business. Oct. 2011. c.304p. bibliog. ISBN 9780307452719. $25. BUS
When self-doubt prevented Young from starting on her doctoral dissertation, she came across a study of the "impostor phenomenon" in successful women—the feeling some women have that they have not truly earned their achievements. Inspired by the relevance of this concept to her own situation and that of many colleagues, Young began her dissertation research along similar lines. This book draws upon her research, her experience as a workshop leader and speaker, and her seven years as marketing director of a Fortune 500 company. Rather than explaining how to become successful, the author teaches readers how to recognize that they already are. She focuses on why women are especially prone to this sort of negative thinking and shows how to overcome it to enjoy triumphs and gain confidence. Her advice is practical and insightful, with simple exercises and action steps en route.
Verdict Given how prevalent the research shows this issue to be among successful women, the market for this book should be quite large. And the author acknowledges that men can also benefit from her book, though its focus is on the ways in which women experience the impostor syndrome.-Carol J. Elsen, Univ. of Wisconsin-Whitewater
GRAPHIC NOVELS
Fixman, T.J. (text) & Adam Archer (illus.). Ratchet & Clank. Wildstorm: DC. 2011. 144p. ISBN 9781401231637. pap. $17.99. F
When whole planets go missing, the big guns are called into action. This volume focuses on the dynamic duo of Ratchet the Lombax and Clank the Robot, pulled from the hit videogame series of the same name, as they battle a nefarious evil scientist–turned–megalomaniac dictator to try to save their home planet from devastation. Fixman's writing soaks the pages with the witty banter for which the games are known (he is a senior writer on the game series as well), and Archer's art is beautifully clean-cut and vibrant.
Verdict Readers do not need to have played the games to appreciate the endearing characters and settings. The villain is comical yet dangerous, and a bumbling side character is even thrown in for good measure. This graphic novel is geared toward those who love a great space opera or even your classic adventure tale; recommended.—Ryan Claringbole, Chesapeake P.L., VA
Johns, Geoff (text) & Doug Hazlewood & others (illus.). The Flash Omnibus. Vol. 1. DC. 2011. c.448p. ISBN 9781401230685. $75. F
The spotlight is turned on the Rogues, a group of superpowered criminals, in this first Flash collection by the acclaimed Johns (Blackest Night; 52). Wally West is forced to work with some of his nemeses, confronts other criminals from his past, and encounters a frightening criminal justice system for imprisoned supervillains—but don't expect philosophical musings on the nature of good and evil from this action-packed compilation that, for the most part, is as bright as the Flash's costume. Johns gives plenty of nods to his native Detroit in the fictional Keystone City, home of hardworking blue-collar citizens and rabid hockey fans. Supporting characters Chyre and Morillo of the Keystone City PD add a vibe that will remind you of classic cop buddy movies.
Verdict If you're looking for a giant helping of the Flash—and if you're a fan of Golden and Silver Age comic heroes—this will make your day. If you add Volume 1, plan on getting patron requests for the second, due out in April 2012.—Kit Ward-Crixell, New Braunfels P.L., TX
Jones, Bruce & others (text) & John Buscema & others (illus.). The Chronicles of Kull. Vol. 4: The Blood of Kings and Other Stories. Dark Horse. 2011. 216p. ISBN 9781595826848. pap. $18.99. F/Fantasy
In this volume, Dark Horse collects four 48-page stories from the 1982–83 run of "Kull the Conqueror." King Kull is second to Conan in Robert E. Howard's barbarian oeuvre, but these stories show the Atlantean exile at his finest, defending his throne and adopted country against evil wizards, shape-changers, and political intrigue. Kull's adventures, alongside characters Brule the Spear-slayer and Councilor Tu, are illustrated by iconic artists Buscema (Conan the Barbarian) and John Bolton (X-Men Classic) and scripted by the likes of Jones (The Incredible Hulk) and Doug Moench (Batman).
Verdict This works extremely well as a Conan readalike. In light of the recent Conan movie remake, there should be renewed interest in Howard-styled sword and sorcery.—Terry Bosky, Palm Beach Cty. Lib. Syst., West Palm Beach, FL
Nagpal, Saraswati (text) & Manikandan (illus.). Sita: Daughter of the Earth. Steerforth. (Campfire Classics). 2011. 96p. ISBN 9789380741253. pap. $12.99. F/MYTHOLOGY
Princess Sita's supernatural birth from a box in the earth is only a portent of the adventures and trials she will face later in life. This adaptation of the Ramayana begins with Sita's early years in the palace and continues on to her fateful marriage to Prince Rama, the catalyst for the legend known by millions around the world. For those familiar with the Ramayana and its considerable length, Nagpal's annotated graphic novel version is an engaging adaptation that carries readers swiftly through major plot points. The short glossary is a nice addition, although not essential for older readers, since the meanings of most unfamiliar words are cleverly embedded through contextualization by Nagpal.
Verdict The illustrations are vibrant and the text easy to read, both in terms of vocabulary and organization. Ideal for midlevel to early YA readers who enjoy fantasy, history, or epic tales.—Joanna Schmidt, Texas Christian Univ. Lib., Fort Worth
AUDIOBOOKS
Haywood, Chelsea. 90-Day Geisha: My Time as a Tokyo Hostess. 11 CDs. library ed. unabridged. 13 hrs. Bolinda Audio. 2011. ISBN 9781742149028. $103.95; 1 MP3-CD. library ed.; Playaway digital; digital download. AUTOBIOG
Haywood decides to delve into the supposed underworld of Japan's hostess clubs and write a book about it. It helps that she is a model and that her husband is initially enthusiastic. They move to Tokyo, and she gets a job immediately and begins serving drinks and having conversations, hoping to find a rich man or two to help her get bonus tips. But the story is neither as excitingly dangerous as the jacket cover promises nor particularly compelling as the narrative devolves into repetitious phone calls, drunken nights, and disappointments. Haywood may have found a better story had she written more about the other foreign women—from Romania, Israel, Canada, and beyond—who work in these clubs rather than the men who frequent them.
Verdict The author's dislike of men and her linguistically biased retelling of conversations diminish any possible cultural insights. Narrator Eloise Oxer does the best she can with the poorly written and sometimes racist-sounding dialog. The title itself is misleading, as a hostess in these clubs is neither a geisha nor a prostitute. Not recommended.—Joyce Kessel, Villa Maria Coll., Buffalo
Hill, Susan. The Various Haunts of Men. 12 CDs. library ed. unabridged. 14¾ hrs. AudioGO. 2011. ISBN 9780792774983. $89.95; digital download. M
Taut prose, well-drawn characters, and an atmospheric setting are a winning combination in this psychological mystery, British author Hill's first book in the Chief Insp. Simon Serrailler series. Police Det. Freya Graffman, a recent transfer to the cathedral town of Lafferton, is puzzled by her first missing-person case—a respectable middle-aged woman who never returned from her morning run. Soon after, a troubled 22-year-old woman disappears from her morning walk, and an elderly grieving widow goes missing after attending a séance. Freya, working alongside the enigmatic Serrallier, frantically tries to connect the dots as the missing-person reports pile up.
Verdict Narrator Steven Pacey brilliantly captures the voices of the colorful characters of Lafferton—especially the psychopath who offers first-person accounts of his crimes. Fans of Ruth Rendell and Peter Robinson will cherish this gripping story, which is chock-full of twists and surprises. ["Readers will be instantly drawn to her likable characters and beautiful landscape and will be carried along by the plot, right up to the shocking final twist. Fans of British mysteries will love this new series and Simon Serrailler as well," read the starred review of the Overlook: Penguin hc, LJ 1/07.—Ed.]—Beth Farrell, Cleveland State Univ. Law Lib.
Lawrence, D. H. The Virgin and the Gypsy. 3 CDs. retail ed. unabridged. 3½ hrs. Naxos Audio. 2011. ISBN 9781843794530. $23; digital download. F
In the early 20th century, D.H. Lawrence scandalized the literary world with his frank treatments of sex and human relationships. Although posthumously published, incomplete, and written in an almost fairy-tale style, this story is all about relationships, relations, and love. A vicar lives with his family—daughters, domineering mother, and bitter sister. All have been permanently scarred by the long past elopement of his flighty wife. When his youngest daughter, Yvette, meets a charismatic Gypsy man, she is tempted both by the man and by what she sees as a free and unconventional life. What will she decide?
Verdict Georgina Sutton has a superbly trained voice that she uses to great advantage in this reading. Recommended for all listeners interested in 20th-century literature.—I. Pour-El, Des Moines Area Community Coll., Boone, IA
McMann, Lisa. Cryer's Cross. 5 CDs. library ed. unabridged. 5½ hrs. Recorded Bks. 2011. ISBN 9781456136017. $51.75; 1 MP3-CD. library ed.; 5 CDs. retail ed. S. & S. Audio; Playaway digital; digital download. F
This latest offering by McMann (the "Wake Trilogy") features Kendall Fletcher, a senior dealing with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), who's spooked by the strange disappearance of two classmates in her one-room Montana high school. One of the missing was Nico, her boyfriend and confidante since childhood, who sat next to her at a 50-year-old desk she comes to think is possessed. A budding romance with a new student helps Kendall keep her equilibrium for a while, until she begins to unravel.
Verdict Julia Whelan reads McMann's staccato sentences clearly and brings Kendall to life as a sensible teenager plunged into a bizarre situation. While McMann builds the suspense and provides a convincing characterization of Kendall, her OCD coping strategies, and her life on the family farm, the story unexpectedly veers off into the supernatural, making the ending feel contrived. McMann's young adult fans may be disappointed this time. [The Simon Pulse pb will publish in December.—Ed.]—Nancy R. Ives, SUNY at Geneseo
Martini, Steve. Trader of Secrets. 10 CDs. library ed. unabridged. 11 hrs. Recorded Bks: Harper Audio. 2011. ISBN 9780062095787. $52.75; 10 CDs. retail ed. Harper Audio; digital download. F
Attorney Paul Madriani and his law partner, Harry Hinds, recently moved from courtroom practice to combating international terrorism and acquired a significant adversary, Liquida, on the way. Accompanied by Paul's girlfriend, ex-prosecutor Joselyn Cole, Paul and Harry chase Liquida from Washington, DC, to Bangkok, Paris, and Mexico, stumbling around another fantastic terrorist scheme. If they return to the California law practice, Liquida will hunt down and kill Paul and daughter Susan, so why not play FBI? The real FBI is in on it but misinterprets all intelligence gathered. There is nonstop action and intrigue as all the good guys make incredibly bad choices and lucky coincidences keep them alive and on Liquida's trail.
Verdict This entertaining action fantasy is well read by Dan Woren and recommended for adult audio fiction collections. This series entry will be much appreciated by fans of the Madriani novels (e.g., The Rule of Nine). [The William Morrow hc, published in May, was a New York Times best seller.—Ed.]—Cliff Glaviano, formerly with Bowling Green State Univ. Libs., OH
