AI and Photography

 

AI generated image from original photograph

AI has come a long way since I last wrote a review on it two years ago.  You now hear a lot of negatives (mainly when people try to pass an AI feature off as their own) but I believe there are many useful purposes for AI in photography and editing.  I also believe it is important when a creation has added AI features that you represent it as such.

In the image above I started with a photograph of myself, as you see in the center of the collage.  I then went into ChatGPT and asked it to create a collage with my favorite pastimes: photography, Bible class, Book club, photographing lighthouses, and bird watching.

Caricatures using ChatGPT

Another fun thing to do in ChatGPT is to make caricatures.  These are very easy to make and ChatGPT allows you to make up to 4 images a day for free.  If you want to do more in a day then you would need to upgrade to their paid version.  I have made several of these caricatures and always enjoy the outcomes.  Here are the steps I take to make the images.

• Enter ChatGPT in your browser.
• Sign in to ChatGPT
• On the left side of the screen you will see images as a choice-hit that
• Now a box will come up asking you to describe image here
• This is where you list your activities that you would like to show in your caricature.
• Now to the left of the box you will see a plus sign and this is where you add your photograph
• When all is added you just click on the button to start and it will create your image.  This will take a few minutes.

Below you see a caricature I made of my dog Dixie.  I put her activites as running in park and chasing squirrels.

Dog Caricature created on ChatGPT

For my brothers-in-law birthday, I wanted to create a special card so I put a photo I had of him on ChatGPT and listed his favorite pastimes: the theatre, chess, visiting Branson MO and cigars.  I asked for a caricature and here is the resulting image which I then put on the front of his birthday card.

Caricature Created by ChatGPT from Photograph

 Generative Fill in Photoshop

Another great way to use AI is a fun feature in Photoshop called "Generative Fill".  In this feature you use a photograph that you had taken and add something to it.  You can do this by circling the area where you want to add something and then selecting generative fill in the Edit drop down menu.  You will have a box pop up where you can describe what you want to add.  Here is an example.

This is a photo I created an image for a challenge group I am in called" Monthly Artistic Playtime". They provided the hearts and lettering, and we were challenged to create an image using that.  I added a photo I had taken of the Northern Lights for the background and then with generative fill I added the two Cardinal lovebirds.

Valentine Greeting

Creating Images in Meta AI

In this one I had a photo that I took of my backyard when it was snowing, and I wanted to use it for Christmas.  I used Meta AI to add the wreath with the red bow, the twinkling lights and the greeting.  Meta AI is found on Facebook and is very easy to use.  You can find it on your home Facebook page in the lefthand column

Christmas Decor edited with Meta AI

2023 Review on AI and Photography

In 2023 I first wrote a review on fun ways to use AI and creativity with photographs. AI has come a long way in the past two years, but I thought you might like to see what I wrote two years ago.  Here is a link to that review.

Fun with AI in Photography

Zazzle Card from my Designs

Valentine Card

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Review of Renewed iPhones on Amazon

 

Renewed electronics on Amazon are a great way to get really good products at a reduced price. I have found that they offer a cost-effective way to own Apple products and they come with a warranty.  I have gotten my last three iPhones on Amazon using the renewed program and have been very satisfied.  The phones have been just like new and the process to get them and to trade in your old phones is great.

Key Features of Amazon Renewed iPhones

• Choose from service provider or unlocked
• Great selection of all models of iPhones--some as low as $315.00
• Choose memory size
• Choose condition- choices include Excellent, Good, and Acceptable and range from no cosmetic damage to lightly visible scratches.  All have battery life of greater than 80%
• Trade In of your old phone is available- you enter information on your old phone and they will give you an estimated trade in value.  If you choose to go with the trade in they send you a free shipping label.
• All come with accessories equivalent to those that were originally shipped in the box when they were new.
• Free Returns- 90 day refund/replacement

Here is a link to Amazon's Renewed iPhones Renewed iPhones

Amazon Renewed Store

In addition to the iPhones the Amazon Renewed Store carries a variety of expertly refurbished products at great prices.  Here are the categories I found on the Renewed page on Amazon.

• Cell Phones and Accessories
• Computers and Accessories
• Video Games
• Office Supplies

Here is a link to the Amazon Renewed Store Amazon Renewed Store

Buying a renewed phone or other electronic product is not only a great way to save money, but you are helping the environment at the same time.  I have been so pleased with the phones that we have purchased in this way.  Everything has always gone as smooth as can be and I love my new (renewed) iphone 14Pro Max!

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Review of We Were The Lucky Ones

The author, Georgia Hunter, did meticulous research on this book that is based on her grandfather's family.  Even though this is a book of historical fiction her careful research really brings to life the struggles of the Kurc family during World War II.  The story, which was largely left untold until Georgia discovers the stories during a family reunion, is one of struggles, hardship, love and the endurance of the human spirit.  

Book Summary

The book begins in 1939 as the Kurc family gathers for the Passover in their home in Radom, Poland.  There are three generations gathered, and they are only missing Addy who is working in France.  

At first the issues of the world seem remote, and they struggle to lead normal lives even as the threat of war looms.  The dinner conversation consists of talks of babies and romance and everyday life.

The peace that they knew will soon be destroyed and the family will be forced to come to grips with the reality of the coming war.  The family will be sent to the far ends of the world and be divided so that the main struggle and conversations will be their desire to stay alive and someday all be together again.

The author does a wonderful job of making you feel a part of each of the family members struggles and wanting to read on to find out how they will survive.  There are members of the Kurc family sent to labor camps in Siberia and ghettos in their hometown when their beautiful home is taken from them.  Other family members pose as Gentiles to survive, and one is able to escape the continent and travels to Brazil.

With the title of the book leading us to believe they all survive, I was always wondering how each one would survive the terrible struggles they endured.

This book was based on the actual lives of the authors ancestors which made it even more compelling.  I highly recommend this New York Times bestselling book.  It is a true testament to the human spirit that can survive and thrive.

Miniseries made from Book

The book has been made into a miniseries. It premiered on Hulu in 2024.  It stars Joey Kirs and Logan Lerman.

Book on Amazon

The book is available on Amazon in paperback, Kindle, and audio book.   We were the Lucky Ones

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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Review of Short Story by Lisa Wingate

 

There are times when life is particularly hectic or perhaps when I've just read a long book and I'm in the mood for something lighter that a short story is just what is needed.  That happened to me at the end of 2025, and I found this short story by Lisa Wingate that just hit the spot.  I had read books by this author before and knew I liked her writing style, so I downloaded this book to my kindle and enjoyed a nice break from my holiday preparations.

Story Synopsis

In this moving short story, Olympic silver medalist Kalista Brooks returns to her hometown to be with her father when his heart condition worsens.  He was a beloved coach to many and always holds a special place in Kalista's heart.

As the visit, her father has one request.  He really would love to return to their old farmhouse in the Blue Ridge Mountains.  He would love to relive that area in all four seasons.  Since time is to short to be there a year, Kalista works on a way to relive all four seasons in a months' time.

As the narrative continues, they relive their shared experiences such as spring blossoms, homemade jam in the summer, a special autumn festival and a very special winter evening.

Along the way Kalista learns some valuable lessons and takes another look at what is really important in her life.

This short story looks at the enduring love between a father and daughter and the valuable bonds that family relations hold.

I found this a very touching and delightful read.

Book on Amazon

Here is a link to the short story on Amazon,  The Last Father-Daughter Dance

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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Merry Christmas from the Review This Team

 

Merry Christmas from the members of the Review This team.  We thank you for your support and wish you and your family a happy and joyous Christmas season.

One of my favorite holiday activities is to take photos of all the beautiful decorations.  Here are some of my favorites from this year.

Main Street St. Charles Photo Walk

One of my favorite things to do each holiday season is to go to Main Street in an area close to me.  This town, St. Charles, goes all out in decorating for the holidays.  Here are some photos I took last week.

Holiday Lights- Bokeh

I love using a bokeh effect in holiday photos.  A bokeh effect gives the background a warm soft glow and turns lights into soft balls of color.  You can achieve this by focusing on a nearby subject using a wide aperture and having Christmas lights in the background. The first photo in this post uses bokeh.  Here are a few other photos using that technique.

Here are two using the bokeh effect that I created using AI.  I enjoy playing with AI to create different effects.  The biggest challenge here is describing what you want the photo to look like.

Merry Christmas

and a

Happy New Year

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A Very Merry Murder Mystery-Review

 

Christmas Cozy Mystery

I really enjoy cozy mysteries, so as the Christmas season was approaching, I found several Christmas themed cozy mysteries that I downloaded to my Kindle. I found one set of books that contained three different cozy mysteries all about a woman named Meridith and called Merry.  In these mysteries you are introduced to Merry and her interesting cast of friends who live in a small town.

Santa Slaughter

The first book in A Very Merry Murder Mystery series is set during a Christmas festival in a small town.  Meridith "Merry" is in between jobs and is working as an elf in the Santa hut.  Her friend Maggie has a booth by the Santa hut that sells hot chocolate.  On the first day of the festival Merry is working to set up the candy canes and her helpers are getting the children in line to see Santa.  The first two children enter the hut and start talking to Santa when he gets called away for a minute.  When Merry goes to take the photos she discovers that Santa is not there, the children show her how he went out the back door of the hut.  When Merry goes out to check on him she finds him on the ground and the mystery begins.  

First Date Disaster

In the second book, Merry's life his getting on a good track.  She now has a job running the cafe/coffee shop in her small town.  She also has a love interest in the town veterinarian.  When the book opens, they have yet to go on a date but that soon changes and things are looking up until they run into a dead body on their first date. Merry feels invested in solving the murder especially when a friend of hers becomes a suspect.  Rob, her date, is supportive and helpful but what a start to a relationship!  Will this work out? Will the murder be solved?  You will need to read the book to discover these answers.

The Body in the Bookstore

The third book in the series takes place when one of Merry's favorite authors, Aloysius Hunt comes to town to talk about his newest book at a local bookstore.  Merry's Aunt Cassie is also a big fan of the Mr. Hunt, so she comes to town to attend the event with Merry.  Before the event they are serving people in the cafe when a group of big fans of the Aloysius Hunt come in for some snacks and drinks before the big event.  They follow Mr. Hunt wherever he is speaking and they are very excited about his newest book.  

All is going well until they are at the bookstore, and a tragic accident occurs.  When it turns into a murder, it looks like they have another mystery to solve.

The Books on Amazon

The first three books in this series, along with the other six, can be purchased on Amazon in paperback or for Kindle.  Here is a link to the books A Very Merry Murder Mystery

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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An Autumn Visit to Veterans Tribute Park

Today is Thanksgiving Day in the USA and first of all I'd like to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving from the staff at Review This.  We thank each and every one of you for your support over the years.  Your support for Review This Blogs is what makes us successful.  Thank you!

Veterans Tribute Park

Last week I took a group that I mentor to take photographs at our local Veterans Tribute Park.  We had been there last May, and I wrote a review at that time.  I have listed a link to it at the end of this article.  We enjoyed the park so much that we decided we would like to go to it again in the autumn when all the fall colors would be out.  The week before we were to go, we had a hard freeze so many of the color was depleted and yet t
here were lots of beautiful scenes to photograph.  The day we went was a perfect day weatherwise and we enjoyed walking through the park and capturing the beauty of the season on our cameras.

Photos from our Visit

This photo is of some of the grasses that adorn the fall landscape.

 In this photo I was demonstrating to the group the use of natural framing of a subject by looking through the grasses to capture the lake in the background.

In this photo we zoomed in to capture the orange trees surrounding the lake.  You will note that many of the trees in the background had already lost their leaves, but it still gives a nice framing for the lake.

There was a bridge that went down toward the lake.  It provided a nice overlook to the lakes.  I showed everyone how when they turned around and showed the path going up to the lake it gave a leading line to the trees beyond.

Zooming in for a close-up photo of fall leaves makes a pretty photo.

Veterans Tribute Park in the Spring

Here is a review I wrote on our spring visit to the park.

Veterans Tribute Park in the Spring

Fall Designs from my photos on Zazzle

Autumn Beauty

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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Cozy Mystery Review-Murder at Cape Costumers

In her latest book in "A Cozy Capers Book Group Mystery", Maddie Day again brings together all of the interesting characters in a small Cape Cod town's book club.  The book group is dedicated to reading and discussing cozy mysteries, but when a real murder mystery happens in their small town they feel a need to help the police uncover the murderer.

Synopsis of the Book

In a charming village on Cape Cod, a Halloween murder shocks the community.  Enzo, the victim, is found dressed as a skeleton. A group of amateur sleuths from a local cozy mystery book club can't resist the urge to investigate, despite the police warning them to stay out of it.  As they dig deeper, they uncover a web of secrets and motives among the villagers, including the new owners of the costume shop, Shelly and Harini, an investment advisor, and the victim's nephew.  Can the book club solve the crime before they become the next victims?

The Book on Amazon

Maddie Days books can be found on Amazon in paperback, audible and kindle versions.  Here is a link to all 7 of the Cozy Capers Bookclub Mysteries.  Cozy Capers Book CLub

More Cozy Mystery Reviews

I always enjoy a good cozy mystery and so do many of the other writers for Review This.  Here are a few of the cozy mysteries we have reviewed.

• Murder on Cape Cod  This is another Maddie Day mystery.
  
• Tea by Sea   Wednesday Elf reviews this cozy mystery.
  
• Irish Village Mystery series  Margaret reviews a mystery series that takes place in an Irish Village.
  
• Toes on the Dash  This delightful cozy mystery series takes place in Colorado, and the main character is a high heeled tow truck driver.
  
• The Lighthouse Keeper  Lou reviews this cozy mystery that takes place by a lighthouse.
  
• Everything Bundt the Truth  This cozy mystery is one of a series that takes place around dinner parties.
  

 

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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Missing - A Perfect Vacation-A Perfect Nightmare

Missing- a perfect vacation-a perfect nightmare

I have been reading a lot of the same authors lately, so I decided to try reading an author that was new to me.  I found this book on Book Bub and found the book to be very interesting.  In fact from page one till the end of the book, I enjoyed every moment of it. So now, I have another author to read and I will look for more books by Christy Cooper-Burnett.

Synopsis

Megan Hamilton thinks everything is going great with her life, until her fiancé tells her she is boring and he no longer wants to marry her.  She is shocked and hurt when he tells her he has already found someone else that he wants to marry.

In an attempt to get her mind off her breakup, her mother, Michelle, invites Megan to go on a luxury cruise with her and her best friend Rochelle.  At first Megan refuses, but upon further reflection and her mother's insistence she decides to go on the cruise.

While on the cruise Megan meets a charming man, Nate, who is kind and fun and Megan begins to enjoy herself.  Is this a "Perfect Vacation" or a "Perfect Nightmare"? Megan soon finds out everything is not as it appears. 

I will leave the rest of the story for you to discover as you read the book.  I will just say the book is full of twists and turns till the very end of the book.

You can purchase the book on Amazon in paperback, kindle version or audiobook at the following link   Missing

About the Author

Since I had not read this author before, I looked up some information on her.  Christy Cooper-Burnett is a award winning author based in Southern California.  She has a degree in Administration of Justice and lives with her rescue dog, Beau.  She has one grown son who inspired her to write her debut novel "No Way Home".

Christy enjoys writing novels that encourage the reader to put themselves in the place of her strong female characters and think about how they would handle the unique situations in which they find themselves.

Other Books by Christy include the following:

• No  Way Home
• Escaping Home
• Finding Home
• Run
• Passport to Terror

 

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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A Single Thread by Tracy Chevalier

A Single Thread

 Historical Fiction is one of my favorite genres to read and Tracy Chevalier is among my favorite authors.  A Single Thread, did not disappoint.  Chevalier draws you right into the story from the very beginning and you not only read a moving story but learn a bit of history along the way.

Book Review

I found this to be a fascinating story of how one woman created a good life for herself despite the constraints of her time.  It takes place in England in the 1930's.  The country is just getting past World War I and the beginning of the next war is on the horizon.

Violet Speedwell finds herself to be deemed a "surplus woman".  She is a 38-year-old woman who has lost both her fiancé and her brother in World War I.  In societies eye she is doomed to be a "spinster".  That however is not what Violet wants for her life.  She wants to be independent and to do so does the unheard of and leaves her small town and family home to seek employment in the larger town of Winchester. 

 

She secures a job and makes friends. Through a friend she decides to join a group of women who embroider kneelers for the local Cathedral. Violet has never done this type of embroidery before, but she becomes quite dedicated to learning this skill and finds support and fellowship with the group.

When forces threaten to hurt her new independence, Violet must find a way to put down roots in a place and time where women are not expected to grow and thrive on their own. 

Through this book, I learned a lot about the challenges woman faced in that era and admired the way the main character overcame the challenges of the age.  I also learned a lot about the craft of the brodiers.

Book on Amazon

A Single Thread can be purchased on Amazon in hardback, paperback, audio and kindle versions.  Here is a link to get you to the book A Single Thread

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Book Review- Counting Miracles

Book Review

I have always loved Nicholas Sparks books, and his newest one did not disappoint.  This intriguing book like many of his others, seems to have two different story lines until they seamlessly merge into one.  This is a book I would highly recommend.
 

Book Summary

Counting Miracles introduces us to three key characters:

• Tanner Hughes, a former army ranger.  After his grandmother's passing, using some information she has given him, he is on a search for his biological father.
• Kaitlyn Cooper, a single mother and a doctor.
• Jasper, an elderly man who is haunted by a tragic past.

As the lives of these three people intersect they discover unexpected connections and miracles that change everything. Sparks masterfully weaves together their lives through his wonderful storytelling and great character development.  He makes us feel as if we are in their lives just waiting for what will happen next.

Of all of Nicholas Sparks books that I have read, this one inspired me the most.  The uplifting message and engaging characters will linger in your thoughts long after you have finished reading it.

Book on Amazon

Counting Miracles can be purchased on Amazon.  Counting Miracles

Review This Writers Review Nicholas Sparks Books and Movies

Nicholas Sparks books and movies are a popular review for Review This writers.  Here are a few they have reviewed.

The Wish by Nicholas Sparks – A Book Review

The Return by Nicholas Sparks – Book Review

Two By Two – A Book Review

The Choice by Nicholas Sparks Movie Review

Safe Haven Movie and Book Reviewed

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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Cozy Mystery Review-Murder on Cape Cod

 

                                       Cape Cod Lighthouse Photo by Mary Beth Granger       

I love a good cozy mystery and the latest one I have read was delightful.  It is part of the "Cozy Capers Book Group Mystery" and was written by Maddie Day.  The author has a wonderful way of bringing the characters to life on the pages of the book.  This book was book one of the series and in it we are introduced to Mackenzie Almelda (Mac to her friends).   Mac had spent time after college traveling the world and has decided to come back to her home town, a small village on Cape Cod, to settle in and make a life for herself.  She opens a bicycle repair and rental shop, which is popular with all the tourists that visit the area.  In this first book we meet some of the other shop owners who are also members of her cozy mystery book club.

Book Summary

In  this charming town on Cape Cod, Mackenzie "Mac" Almeida stumbles upon a dead body while walking home from a book club meeting in the dense fog.  The victim is a local character, Jake who has been stabbed and the police investigation begins.

Despite warning from the police to stay out of it, Mac and her book club friends decide that the police need help determining the suspect and they start snooping around for clues.  As Mac digs deeper she fears that her brother Derrick will become a suspect.  She does more snooping and one evening comes home to a note in her door threatning her to stay out of it.

With the help of her quirky friends and loved ones, Mac navigates the web of complex relationships and secrets in the small town to uncover the truth behind Jake's murder.

The Book on Amazon

Here is a link to the book on Amazon  Murder on Cape Cod

More Cozy Mystery Reviews on Review This

Here are some other cozy mysteries reviewed by the Review This Staff.

Fear in First Gear

Tea by Sea

Irish Village Mystery Series

Mrs Fix it Mystery Series

Review of Cozy Mystery Genre

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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Peasants to Patriots - A Book Review

 

This carefully researched book of historical fiction takes place in the early days of the United States.  It covers the time period just prior to the revolutionary war and continuing until the colonies become a country.  It is particularly interesting that the author researched when his ancestors entered the colonies and their struggles through the early years of the new country.

This is the fourth in a series of books the author has written, tracing back his ancestors to Scotland, Ireland, Prussia and finally to the new world.  

Book Summary

Peasants to Patriots: Book 4 by Dewayne Landwehr is a masterful blend of historical research and family legacy, brought to life through the lens of historical fiction. By tracing his own ancestors' journeys from Scotland and Ireland to the American colonies, Landwehr crafts a compelling narrative that immerses readers in the epic story of the Revolutionary War.

The strength of this book lies in its unique perspective. Rather than relying on broad historical accounts, Landwehr dives deep into the lives of his ancestors, recreating their experiences with vivid detail and imaginative storytelling. We see them face countless challenges, from the harsh realities of frontier life to the brutal battles of the war.

What sets this book apart is the way Landwehr weaves his ancestors' stories together with those of well-known historical figures. The encounters between his family members and legends like Daniel Boone feel particularly compelling, offering a glimpse into the interconnectedness of history. While rooted in meticulous research, the dialogue and personal moments are skillfully fictionalized, bringing the characters to life in a way that feels both authentic and engaging. For me, this brings history to life in a way that textbooks never could.

Landwehr's dedication to uncovering the past is inspiring, and his writing brings the struggles and triumphs of his ancestors to life. This book isn't just a historical account – it's a tribute to the people who shaped America, told through the lens of one family's journey.

For anyone interested in historical fiction, the Revolutionary War, or genealogy, Peasants to Patriots: Book 4 is a captivating read. Landwehr's passion for his ancestors and his craft shines through, making this book an enriching experience that draws readers into the tumultuous world of America's founding.  I highly recommend this book!

Links to books and Reviews

This book is available on Amazon and can be purchased at the following link: Peasants to Patriots

Here are links for reviews I wrote on other books in this series by Dewayne Landwehr.

This is the first in the series.

Smoke on the Whiteadder

This is the third in the series.

Spark of Revolution

The second in the series Inside Odenwald can be purchased on Amazon at https://amzn.to/3Hw9Pod

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Review of The Writer-James Patterson

 I am a big fan of James Patterson novels.  I have enjoyed his books for years and follow several of his series of books, always looking forward to the newest book.  While looking through his newer books from the library, I came across one that came out earlier this year.  It was co-written with J.D. Barker and in reading the description on the cover I was very curious about the book.  The cover has the claim "You'll Never Forget the Ending".  I decided I needed to read that book and I was not disappointed.  The book keeps you guessing on who the killer is the entire book.  I thought I had it figured out several times, but boy was I wrong.  In the final chapters of the book there is a real twist that I would have never guessed.  Wow! What an ending!

Book Summary

The book starts with Declan Shaw, a NYPD detective standing in a subway train station contemplating throwing himself overboard, when he suddenly gets a call sending him to the scene of a murder.

The scene is in the home of a award winning novelist and her doctor husband.  The husband has been stabbed, and the wife is standing over him in bloody clothes with the murder weapon.  At first glance it is an open and shut case, but then nothing is what it seems in the rest of the book.

We are introduced to Declan's partner, his lieutenant, the wife's attorney and many more possible suspects. There is also another case of a woman in a nearby alley that plays into the picture.  In addition, there are some doubts about a prior case that Declan and his partner worked and the suspect was found guilty and is in jail.  

There are so many twists and turns that I hate to give anymore away.  I will tell you this is a very compelling book and once you get into it, it is hard to put down.  I highly recommend this book for anyone looking for a fascinating murder thriller.

Book on Amazon

The book is available on Amazon in hardcover, kindle and audio books.  Here is a link The Writer

Reviews on James Patterson Books

Writers for Review this have written several reviews on various James Patterson books.  Here are a few.

• The President is Missing Book Review
• The Golf Miracle Trilogy by James Patterson – Book Reviews
• James Patterson's The Christmas Mystery Book Review and Book List
• Shattered by James Patterson - Book Review
• LOST by James Patterson - Book Review
• Eruption by Michael Crichton and James Patterson

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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Fear in First Gear a Book Review

 

I love cozy mysteries, and Karen Whalen has some really fun ones to read that are sure to keep you up reading to find out the mysteries. Fear in First Gear is #7 in her Tow Trucker Driver mystery series.  In this book you again meet with the delightful cast of characters in a small Colorado town.  First there is Delaney, the shoeaholic tow truck driver who is the main character. Coming back and reading another book about her is like meeting up with an old friend.  Then you have the fun cast of characters in Delaney's life.  Her romantic interest is Ephraim the town sheriff.  Her best friend is Kristin, who owns a coffee shop.  Other supporting characters include Zach, Kristins romantic interest, who is with the local police.  There is also Kristins cousin Axle, who rooms with Delaney and Tanner a fellow tow truck driver who is always willing to help to Delaney in the tow truck business.

Book Summary

The book starts off with a blizzard in this small Colorado town.  Delaney is asked to check out Clarkson Pass and make sure no one is stranded before there is a need to shut down the snow gates.  As she is driving up County Road 350 she sees a car off in a ditch and as she gets closer, she sees a woman with her eyes staring out in the car.  Delaney has to travel quite a distance before she finds somewhere to turn her rig around.  The snow is coming down harder and she does not have any cell service.  As she passes where she thought the car was, she can no longer see it, so she makes her way to the nearest place she has cell service and calls in what she believes to be a dead woman in the car.  Now Delaney has found other dead bodies during her tow truck career and the police are leery about what she thinks she has seen.  Meanwhile the blizzard has gotten worse, an avalanche goes through the area and the pass has been shut down.

In the days and weeks ahead, Delaney is determined to find out who the woman is in the car and find her murderer. She is constantly sidetracked by law enforcement who want her to leave the investigating to them.

As the story goes on Delaney finds herself in several situations where social media posters delight in reporting about her.  Here are some of the posts that received lots of attention:

• Tow Truck Driver finding bodies.
• Hi-heeled tow truck driver.
• Tow truck driver tows a bear across town.
• Mishaps during lip syncing with the band.

To read about the above situations and find out how Delaney discovers the answers to the mystery you must read this delightful book.  You can get the book on Amazon at the following link.

Here is the book on Amazon. Fear in First Gear

More Reviews on Karen C Whalen Books

The author has written three different series of books.  The Tow Truck Driver Mysteries, the Dinner Club Mysteries, and the Sea Oaks Beach mysteries.  I have reviewed several of the books and have thoroughly enjoyed them all.  Here are some of my reviews.

 

• Booty in the Backseat- Book Review
• Book Review-Stiletto to the Pedal
• Book Review - Friends Come to Call
• Book Review - Toes on the Dash
• Reviewing Murder at Sea Oaks Beach
• Everthing Bundt the Truth
  
• Washed Up on Sea Oaks Beach
  

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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Reviewing -The Glassmaker

 

The Glassmaker by Tracy Chavalier

I love reading historical fiction and Tracy Chavalier is one of my favorite authors.  This book takes place in Venice and the areas around it and since I've been to Venice it made this book extra special for me.  As they were describing various places in Venice I could picture just where they were talking about.  The author makes the characters come alive in this book which makes it a very compelling book to read.

Story Summary

The author takes an interesting take on the timelessness of Venice in this book.  In the first paragraph of each chapter she takes on a timeline of Venice through the years starting in 1486 and ending in present day.  In the rest of each chapter we follow Orsola Rosso, a woman who has grown up in a glassmaking family in Murano, just a gondolier ride away from Venice.

In Orsola's time woman were meant to be helpers in the business, but never actual glassmakers.  In order to help her family in a time of need Orsola learns to make glass beads in secret.

Venice in 1486 is a very wealthy and an opulent center for trade. As time flows through the years Venice suffers through plagues and wars and eventually turns in to more of a tourist destination than a trade center.

In this book we follow the Rosso family through good times and bad.  We see life through the eyes of Orsola and view her pains and triumphs as she deals with deaths, births, and changes in the glassmaking business.

I would highly recommend this book for anyone who enjoys historical fiction.

Book on Amazon

The Glassmaker is available on Amazon in Hardback, Paperback, Audiobook or eBook.  The Glassmaker

 Reviews of Andriana Trigiani Books

If you enjoy historical fiction you may enjoy this book. Here is a book I reviewed by Adriana Trigiani.

The Good Left Undone

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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Reviewing The Good Left Undone

 

If you love historical fiction, like I do, this wonderful story of a grandmother near the end of her life will be one you will enjoy.  She spends time with her family filling them in on the family history and secrets from years gone by.  In this story you will also learn of history from World War II and what life was like in Italy, France, England and Scotland as told through the grandmothers' stories.

Adriana Trigiani has long been one of my favorite authors of historical fiction and she does not disappoint in this novel.

Story Summary

The story tells of the Cabrelli family, a proud artisan Italian family that live in the small village of Viareggio in Italy.  We are hearing the story told in present day by the family matriarch Mathilda to her granddaughter Anine.

The story begins pre-World War II when Domenica is a young girl who loves to help people.  We follow her through her struggles to become a nurse and the problems she encounters when she offers important information to a young mother.  The town does not approve of her giving the information and she must leave the town.  She goes to Marseilles France to work with nuns in a hospital.  World War II breaks out and she must then go to Scotland.

The book tells of strong women who are faced with ethical, love and family decisions. These women make decisions during difficult times that shape their futures and those around them.

Here is a link to the book on Amazon The Good Left Undone

Historical Fiction Books I Have Reviewed

If you enjoy historical fiction, here are a few other books in that genre that I have reviewed.

Spark of Revolution

Girl Called Samson

Enemy Like Me

Diamond Eye

Smoke on Whiteadder

Book Woman of Troublesome Creek

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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