Characters Books

Jennie McGrady has fallen into another mystery. For once she didn't even want to get involved. Now all the people she cares about have been put in danger.
Jennie had heard about the chemistry lab being broken into over the summer. People had taken things that made it look like they were intending to set up a meth lab. Jennie's police officer friend Rocky tells her to stay away from this mystery, and for once Jennie was actually going to listen. The only reason why she went to school that day was to work out her homeschooling program with the new chemistry teacher. Only when she gets there some one has broken into the lab and Michael finds the teacher murdered.
Jennie still tries to back away from the case when her friend Gavin Winslow pulls her in. Only he gets hurt in his investigation and now Jennie has to deal with the irritating Nate Rastovski, who her mom seems to have a thing for. Jennie doesn't want her to have a thing with Rastovski, after already accepting Micheal and hoping that her Dad will come home before Mom gets married. Before Jennie can worry about this new revelation she needs to solve the case before it is too late.

I loved this book! I have read almost all of the Jennie McGrady books and this one is my favorite. When Jennie's teacher ends up dead the police are certian it is suicide. Jennie is not as sure as the police so she starts investigating. There is a surprising twist in the end so you won't want to miss reading this book!

Whoa! Rushford knows how to write a mystery, and this Book proves it!I GIVE A MILLION STARS!!!! i'M REALLY PICKY ABOUT BOOKS AND THIS BOOK TOPS MY LIST! iF YOU NEVER READ iN TOO DEEP, YOU HAVE NOT BEEN LIVING. iT REALLY IS A SHAME EVERY KID HASN'T READ IT, SO AFTER YOU READ THIS BOOK, SPREAD THE WORD AROUND! pLEASE READ THIS BOOK! i REALLY WOULD APPRECIATE IT. tHE BOOK IS FULL OF TWISTS AND TENSING MOMENTS, ESPECIALLY ABOUT THE SHOCKING TRUTH OF THAT CERTAIN POLICE OFFICER, NATE RASTOVSKI, WHO IS MORE INTERESTED IN JEN'S MOM THAN THE CASE! ALTHOUGH IT IS BETTER TOO READ THEM IN ORDER, WHICH I ENCOURAGE YOU TOO DO, YOU WILL GO THROUGH THEM SO FAST THAT YOU WILL FINISH UP THE SERIES BEFORE YOU KNOW IT.! PLEASE READ THIS BOOK!!!!!

This is the only JMG mystery I've read so far. I lost interest slightly at the beginning, but I'm not sure why! You never know what's about to happen next. There is no way you'll want to put this book down!! When Jennie's teacher turns up dead, Jennie is sure he was murdered, even though all the clues point to a suicide! But no one will listen to Jennie, including the officer in charge of the case, who's much more interested in her mother... The shocking truth(s) will surprise *everyone*! You do NOT want to miss this book!

This is my absolutely favorite book. It's funny, intense, and has a SHOCKING, but wonderfully surprising ending. I would deffinately recomend this to any one, it is sooooo cool. But the best part about Jennie McGrady is that she's not a perfect Nancy Drew that get's everything right. She's a normal teen with a knack for solving mysteries. WHO EVER HAS NOT READ THIS BOOK IS DEFINATELY MISSING OUT ON ALOT!...

A gifted storyteller, Lisa Samson's passion for life animates her characters while her eye for detail creates the historical stage upon which they struggle, grow, and ultimately come to terms with themselves and God.

"Indigo Waters" is a very inspiring and well-written book. From the opening sentence until the last line you can see everything clearly. You really feel like you know the characters. Sylvie's faith in God is very inspiring. Even when it seems like everything is going wrong (and almost everything you can imagine does) she never lets go of her faith in God and He never lets go of her. I can't wait to read the next book in the series!

Lisa Samson is a wordsmith that takes your heart on a spiritual journey filled with memorable characters that become dear friends, or bitter enemies. The landscape is breathtaking. You will emerge from this book an enriched person.

This is one of the best books that I've read of its kind. I love reading and this one kept me hooked. If you have ever read a Christian romance that you liked, you'll like this one. There are many plot twists and they keep you guessing right up to the very end. Even with all the turns it takes, you never get lost - I knew what was happening from beggining to end. Your heart will go out to Sylvie and what she needs to go through. She is forced to make a choice between love and loyalty to her family. Her strong, though young faith in God keeps her going and happy through it all.

I've always been a big fan of Christian Romances, especially ones set in past times. All I can say is I could not put this book down! I stayed up half the night reading all that I could. It is suspenseful, funny, heartbreaking, and uplifting all at the same time. I loved it! I immediately went out and got the sequel also!

An excellent, enjoyable, and engaging read, this book draws you into the world of 11th century Japan. Sugawara Akitada, a minor government official, is recruited to solve the murder of an exiled prince. The rich characterizations and descriptions are like a window into the past, opening up a new world for western readers. The plot twists and turns and drives the story to the last page. After finishing this last night, I'm looking for the others.

In Island of Exiles, our hero, "Akitada, must undergo a dangerous mission for the Emperor. He does so without the aid of Genbo and Seimei, whose wonderful wise sayings I missed. There is plenty of suspense and danger -- I don't want to reveal the plot, but the ending has some surprises that I had not expected.

Parker's insight into feudal Japan is on a par with Van Gulik's Chinese "Judge Dee" series. I'm delighted that she has kept her characters much the same and stayed true to the era by keeping them believable (unlike L. Rowland, who stepped into the 20th century when she made the hero's wife a female Japanese detective -- I don't think so...)

I've developed a voracious appetite for Parker's Sugawara novels that's unlike anything I've experienced for a long time, and if it didn't carry with it an unwarranted diminution of her previous titles, I'd call "Island of Exiles" her best work yet. There are scenes in this novel reminiscent of Tolkien, as raw and gritty a dramatization of a man's reduction to an animalistic state as I can remember.

This one vaults Sugawara entirely out of his familial and official milieus to do some undercover work - *seriously* undercover - and the departure is both harrowing and exhilarating. Akitada's extramarital fling in this one detracts somewhat from his character's sense of integrity, but in Sugawara's cultural/historical context it's certainly not an implausible nor even unusual occurrence. Presumably his lapse will feed into later character evolution? At any rate, the plot, which begins with a horrific, dreamlike ordeal, builds gradually into an absolute rip-snorter that is thoroughly engrossing. I lost countless hours zooming in on Sadoshima Island via Google Earth while reading this novel, and have added it to my list of must-visit Japanese locales for future vacations. The novel feels so real that I half expect to find the temples and horrific mines Parker describes when I get there. Actually, I was floored when I saw the posted images of the real-world Choukoku Temple at Hase - the image of Shunsai's monastery that Parker had painted in my head previously was virtually identical to them.

Once again, the wait for her next is going to be as excruciating as it was for this one. Amazon is indicating the hardcover version of "Island" is set for release in a couple of weeks - very odd that the paperbacks were published beforehand.

I highly recommend Parker's novels for historical fiction fanatics, Japanophiles in particular. Reading the Sugawara novels in order is not essential but on the whole probably more enjoyable, as there are numerous references within them to prior cases. Enjoy!

This is another in a series set in 11th C. Japan (Heian era), featuring Sugawara Akitada.

Sugawara, descendant of a once illustrious family that suffered after the exile of an ancestor, is currently acting governor of a distant province, Echigo (for an official, tantamount to being exiled himself), struggling to do his duty with little funds and support and hoping to some day return to the capital, despite political enemies working against him. He is becoming known for his ability to solve sensitive crimes, however, and two mysterious officials visit, ordering him to investigate the murder of the exiled Second Prince (brother of the Emperor--found guilty of plotting treason) on the island of Sado.

Akitada undertakes a dangerous mission disguised as a prisoner exiled to the island. He has to deal with cruel, corrupt police officials, the weak governor whose son is accused of poisoning the Second Prince, a powerful local lord who is the descendant of an Exile and possible treasonous plots against the Emperor. The historical detail is strong, the aspects of life and culture in the period interesting, the adventure and action exciting, the mystery suitably involved and intriguing. A good over-all read. It is not necessary to have read the previous books to enjoy this tale.

I have read all of the "Sugawara Akita" mysteries/thrillers. They always strike me as a tiny bit excessive in some respects (the thriller respect, mostly) but still irresistible. This volume is no different; or, if it is different it is even better. The historical authenticity is very strong, perhaps more so than usual, and the characters are appealing. If you love feudal Japan, don't miss this one.

Travelling with Lovejoy is so very different than what anyone is used to. In this book we see him in Hong Kong as he's trying to escape some nasty characters back in East Anglia. He starts out OK with a plane ride, passport and money in his pocket, but he's not in Hong Kong for five minutes before everything he has is stolen. As he wanders around hungry for two days, we see Hong Kong through his eyes, and he, even with all his troubles, is fascinated by it. It's easy to see the author's experiences of Hong Kong in the wonderful descriptions that he paints in this book. Anyway, poor old Lovejoy finally finds himself a way to make a living (and what a way that is!), but he gets mixed up with a nasty lot too. His experiences with the Hong Kong triads is unforgettable (and actually quite funny too). We of course see another master fiddle done by the old faker (Lovejoy himself), and we also get more interesting info on some pretty nice antiques (Asian style). This book is captivating, as are all the others in this wonderful series.

The English physician who writes under the name of Jonathan Gash lived in Hong Kong for several years; his knowledge of the weather, society, and people combine to make this one of the better Lovejoys. This is also a great choice for someone unfamiliar with Lovejoy as he is quickly yanked out of England and left penniless in Hong Kong. As with many of Gash's Lovejoy efforts, the action is fast and furious for the last 20 pages or so. Recommended.

This is one of the best in the series. Gash successfully brings together plot, pacing, setting and character. Often his plots are convoluted, but this one moves surely, and without sacrificing entertainment. As in the Gondola Scam (in Venice), Gash limits the region to explore to great effect. We lovingly follow Lovejoy through Hong Kong, meet up with the requisite number of baddies, but also the quirky and unusual characters that assist Lovejoy in his quest. A tightly and carefully constructed book, and a great introduction to the entire series.

Dashing Lovejoy is at it again--this time in Hong Kong! Running from the law and some small time hood, he's off to the orient, loses everything, becomes mixed up in a huge antiques swindle, and is locked into serfdom. Jade Woman is one of my favorite Jonathan Gash books. Even when his life is on the line, Lovejoy never runs out of witty things to say. Murder, intrigue, antiques, and the spell of Hong Kong mix together to bring you a real page-turner.

When the heavies in England force Lovejoy from his home and possessions and make his future seem less than pleasant, he takes advantage of an opportunity to leave England and to move to Hong Kong for the sake of his health and freedom. The extreme heat and humidity saps his strength so badly that he doesn't even make it out of the terminal of the airport, but collapses in a heap for a quick nap on the floor of the terminal. Big mistake...when he awakens to find his money and passport missing, he makes the long walk into the city and throws himself on the mercy of a man who had given him his card on the plane. The man rejects his plea for charity and walks away, only to be stabbed to death a few minutes later. After finding himself temporary shelter with a friendly expat, Lovejoy hawks his talents as an expert in antiques and antique reproductions, and is contacted by the Triads and forced into working for them. His room mate works as a gigolo, servicing travelling ladies with dinner, dancing and anything else they might require, and recruits Lovejoy into the profession. He is fascinated by Jade Woman, a beautiful and highly educated young woman, trained since childhood to be the face of the Triads. Lovejoy makes a deal with the gangs to forge pieces of art for them and soon finds himself in big trouble as usual. The lovable rogue struggles out of his predicaments with his usual flair and, by the end of the book, is heading for the US. I just hope that I can find this sequel.

Charlyn Singleton has been called the Little Woman with the Big Word for her extraordinary ability to make the Scriptures come to life. In her inspirational book entitled, The Journey From Pain to Purpose, Singleton uses the story of Joseph (Genesis 37). Joseph, who was a very young man, was mistreated, rejected, falsely accused and abused. He was even imprisoned n false charges and had to stay in prison without recourse for years. There was no one on whom he could call for help. Yet through it all, Joseph learned to hold onto God even when he couldn't see Him and even when circumstances made it look as if God had abandoned him. The end result was that God exalted Joseph into his destiny, his true purpose in life.

Singleton use of Joseph's story reminds us that life is a mixture of joys and sufferings, but we can rejoice in them both for they are both for our good. Joseph's story also reminds us that things seem to come to us in seasons. We may experience a season of joy followed by a season of sorrow and suffering. Or vice versa. God is in control and He chooses our seasons for His own purpose and for our own good.

Singleton's scripture filled and uplifting book reminds us all that God wants to take us to a place of glory, however we must go through a place of pain. This book is a must read for anyone who is depressed, alone or doubts God's presence in their life. Read this book and see how much more God is willing to do with and for you!

Highly recommended! Makes a great gift.

Reviewed by Tonya S. Hall for GoodGirlBookClubOnline & The Good Girl Book Club Worldwide

I was immediately struck when I saw the author on the Daystar Joni show that she had a special presence and anointing from God. For anyone who has suffered or is suffering, the book is priceless in its insights. It is hard to comprehend fully, because the author is so lovely in form and features, that she has ever suffered, but when she speaks of her pain, though she does not say what it is, her understanding is so deep, it resonates as rich and true.

The revelations in the book were for me, in 4 categories. There are 1) fresh ones from the story of Joseph itself, 2) the kind that I knew to be true and it was a blessing to have them confirmed, 3) the kind that I have experienced as true but about which I had not received full revelation or fully identified, 4) the kind that I had never thought about before, but when I read them, I was struck immediately of their truth.

An example of the first is when she tells of Joseph's response when he first re-encounters his brothers. To my recollection, every time I have heard someone speak about Joseph, they credited him with only good motives for the trouble he gave his brothers. I accepted this but it never made full sense to me. The author I believe prophetically and accurately indicates that Joseph was struggling with unforgiveness. Evidence of this is that he kept Simeon in prison, not Reuben, who he had just heard say that he had told his brothers not to harm the boy! This is so completely true and the story now makes sense, and Joseph is a bit more the human being that he was, struggling to fear and obey God, not an ethereal saint.

An example of the second is when she speaks of the particular kind of sorrow that persistent pain and disappointment bring. Whereas in the beginning of a trial, there are many tears, one might even cry oneself to sleep, after many years of hoping and not seeing restoration, there are no more tears, they dry up. As Jeremiah said in Lamentations, "I have forgotten what prosperity is." That happens and I have experienced it and had already identified it as something that had happened to me. It was a blessing to read I was not alone and also to remember to praise God anyhow, to be encouraged to remain steadfast, to continue believing, to "keep hope alive."
An example of the third is when the author writes about becoming a prisoner of hope. After a long time of suffering and perseverance, seeing things get worse not better, the suffering person gives up, decides both dream and dreamer are crazy, the things dreamed and being believed for are just nuts, that God has forgotten or does not truly care. Then (as in my case) the person reads the Word, gets up strangely believing that the dream may be crazy, but that God is actually going to fulfill the wild promises of restoration that He has spoken and that only He can do. At that point the sufferer is no longer the driver of the hope, but is now a prisoner of that hope. Awesome! This is exactly my experience, yet, even though God has vividly spoken to me Zechariah 9:12, I never fully understood the "prisoner" of hope aspect. This is a wonderful insight!
Finally, an example of the fourth, the author mentions that parents have to be careful what they say about other people, their children will reflect attitudes toward those people without knowing why. As soon as I read it, I knew it is very true, even though it had never occurred to me so clearly before.

A small, not positive observation: even though the book is extremely well-written and flows nicely, I spotted some spelling or grammatical errors that should have been cleaned up.

No review can adequately capture this book. Each page is filled with revelation, insight, and wisdom. During my annual mid-summer trek from the heat of Phoenix to wonderful cool Southern California, I hope to visit the author's husband's church (though I am a white guy, and the church I am guessing is African-American). It must be quite a place.

A light in the troubled waters of life. Singleton offers a new perspective on the grace, guidance and mercy of God in your life.

Charlyn Michelle Singleton has been called the Little Woman with the big Word for her extraordinary ability to make the Scriptures come to life. This book can inspire readers to get past the dark places in their journey. By identifying the purposeful steps in Joseph's life, readers will gain a new perspective on challenges and how God can take and use events to make them all He created. Readers will have a new attitude: "Don't give up on the purpose God has for your life. Embrace it!" Excellent! If this were a movie, it would get an Oscar!

Pam Perry, Chocolate Pages reviewer
www.MinistryMarketingSolutions.com

If you've ever been in pain, depressed, ill, tired, sick and tired of being tired and angry - no- mad, you need to read this book. Many people, young and old, male and female, saved and unsaved have either read or heard the story of Joseph. But, never have I actually been able to "see" the story in my mind as I did when I read this awesome book by Mrs. Singleton. I was able to put myself in Joseph's place on his journey of faith. I was able to relate but the words of encouragement and the wisdom put forth have affected me as nothing else has. I cried and rejoiced as I read the story I know so well. All will be truly blessed by this book.

All the over the top praise the other reviewers have given this work is justified. One can't help but to gush over it. Liked all the stories - each one got increasingly better. Extraordinary use of the famous Millhauser love triangles (sometimes quadrangles) - every story utilizes this technique. The best thing about Millhauser is that he understands this about the nature of love (and lust and hate): it is rarely a neat and tidy relationship between two people. Rather, it is almost always a complex web of interactions, contextualized between the lover and the object of the lover's desire, who usually only obtains that status when compared against another love or lover! Deep stuff, huh? Deep stuff that Millhauser portrays perfectly in this collection. Not to mention the beautiful, fluid langauge. Not to mention the lush imagry. Not to mention the interesting pacing ..... It could go on and on. Anyway, get this book, because after you read it you'll feel glad to be alive simply for the experience of discovering a fine work such as this one.

I LOVE Steven Millhauser. I own almost all his books--read them one after the other, within the span of weeks. His only flaw in my mind is slow-pacing, but my eye didn't skip over anything in King in the Tree!! I read the Tristan and Ysolt story word by word--something I never do.

This dazzling collection should be of interest to all lovers of Interstitial Fiction, for Millhauser is a master at blending different genres -- myth, fantasy, surrealism, historical fiction and Romance, contemporary realism, horror -- into elegant, innovative, and utterly gripping stories. He is, quite simply, one of the best writers of our day -- and this collection of three stunning novellas is not to be missed.

The three novellas contained in this book are perhaps the most exquisite I've ever read and it pains me to see this beautiful book with but three reviews previous to mine. Anyone who hasn't read "The King in the Tree" is really missing something extraordinarily special.

The first novella, "Revenge" was simply not to my taste but it is perfectly crafted and oozing in irony and sarcasm. Your taste might be very different from mine and this could well end up being your favorite among the three. It is the least "flowery" and the one told in the most spare, but perfect, prose.

"An Adventure of Don Juan" was my favorite because of its overriding sense of melancholia, something I like in a book. In this novella, Don Juan's adventure at an English manor house is quite different from his adventures in Spain or other parts of continental Europe. I loved every word of this novella, from the first to the last.

The title novella, "The King in the Tree" is a heartbreaking retelling of the story of Tristan and Isolde told from the viewpoint of Oliver Cromwell. As the Amazon editorial review says, this novella is a small masterpiece. While I preferred the second novella just a little more, I do have to say that I finished reading this one with a sense of awe. If Millhauser can write something this crystalline in its perfection, this moving, this absolutely beautiful, then I feel the man can surely write anything at all. This is one of the most beautiful pieces of writing I have ever been fortunate enough to read. This is what every "would be" writer should aspire to.

If you love good fiction and you haven't read "The King in the Tree" you are really cheating yourself. Buy or borrow a copy today. This is probably the most beautiful book and the most perfectly crafted book I've ever read. I feel so lucky to own a copy.

Anyone who has had the pleasure of taking a journey between the two covers of a Millhauser book will approach this selection of three novellas with particular glee. Steven Millahuser has revived the glory of Romance Novels and yet has done so with his unique skill and vision. He has an obvious love for the Grand Epics of the past and here he delves deeply into the tale of Don Juan, transporting the Spanish lothario into the prim and measured world of England, finding a startlingly altered view of love among the proper Brits. His retelling of the legend of Tristan and Ysolt (Isolde) is even more beautiful than the versions we know so well. His explorations of all the agonies of love's commitments overlay the exquisite longings in this tale of chivalry, fidelity, and passion. It is impossible to read this novella without hearing Wagner's lush 'Liebestod' ringing through the air.

Millhauser is at his finest in the first of the three marvelously written and conceived novellas in this colection. In what appears to be a simple tour of a house that is on the market he manages to tell us of a marriage troubled, doomed and revenged in a simply eloquent monologue by the surviving wife. How much of this tale is purely cerebral, the workings of a mind gone mad, and how much is the actual distillation of revenge on the perpetrator of a failed marriage and death of a husband is left to us to determine.

Millhauser writes with elegant and eloquent prose, asking us to linger over his pages the way we might linger over a painting in a museum walk. And indeed his stories are written as though derived or inspired from just such experiences. Stunning writing this!

This box-set came in just two days. and in an amazing shape. no damage or nothing.

Makes a perfect read and the illustrations are simply amazing. Its funny, and interesting all in one. If your interested in any type of fantasy games, especially final fantasy or kingdom hearts, this will be the perfect addition!!

What is there to say? Well first off, the animation was fantastic. The perfect combo of anime-manga styling, humorous and yet serious when necessary. The dialogue was to die for. The scenarios fit well and it filled in all the missing pages of the series for me. (no pun intended)

I didn't feel like digging up my lost KH:CoM game and get used to the battle system all over again so I opt to just buy the manga. Didn't regret it one bit! I recommend purchasing the manga whether you're a lazy gamer like me or not. XD

I bought it as a gift for a friend, she seemed to like it so Im guessing its a good item. It beats having to go through the stupid GBA game anyway.

This was an excellent starter pack of Volume 1 and 2 Kingdom Hearts novels. My daughter about knocked me over with excitement on Christmas when she opened these up. The shipment came on time and was in perfect shape.

I am a hardcore Trina Schart Hyman fan, so this book is just another in my collection of her art work. The pictures are stunning. My kids spend hours looking at the pictures. The Red night, blue night, black night theme does get a little old though. The story is about a strange man who comes to King Arthur to ask three favors. After a year, the stranger sets off to free a princess trapped in a tower. He has to face many knights along the way and proves his worthyness in doing so.

I really liked this book because of the story, it was factual. It corresponded well with the legend. The pictures were really well done, I love those dresses! :)

The illustrations are wonderful, and if you like sweet, honest Sir Gareth, as I do, you will enjoy this story, even though it's a kids' book. :)

Excellent book for use during any medieval or knight study. Fourth grade boys in particular would love this book, however, any student in elementary would enjoy the book. The illustrations are very good. Younger students may need the book read to them. Goes along with King Arthur studies and tales.

I bought this book for a report in my British Literature class. The assignment was to find a children's book related to the medieval period. I read it and enjoyed it thoroughly. The text is easy to follow and the pictures are great. Great book for any child, boy or girl.

Takes you back to times I wish I'd live. Also great action hero's, I love books that can let me forget about the real world we live in, it's fun!!!!

I enjoyed the book very much. I find William Johnstone is one of the best writers there is. He alway get my attention from the first page to the last.

I was just as pleased with this book as with others in the last gunfighter series. I congratulate J.A. JOHNSTONE on completing the books left unfinished by William W. Johnstone in his own inimitable style. Zane Grey's heirs have been equally successful in their approach. I only wish the heirs of Ralph Compton (another of my favourite western authors) had been so careful. The Johnstone and Grey families are a shining example for other heirs of great popular authors to follow.

great book-I have most of them. Only improvement that I would like is for the books be numbered in order that they are written so you know what the next book is.. Capt Keith

In a story line that grabs your attention and holds it is a hero that exemplifies the tough and proud western man. Action and drama packed with more gun play than seems possible and a touch of humor that makes for an interesting read. A true western.
Beverly J Scott author of Righteous Revenge

Dan Reles is a gritty cop set in a gritty time period in Austin. This book is the 4th in the series, and continues the excellence of the first 3. I highly recommend reading all 4 books - but read them in order as they truly build on each other. The books could probably stand alone, but the true richness of Michael Simon's writing comes out through the development of the characters and storylines from book to book. Excellent suspense tale, great characters - highly flawed and deeply human.

The title of this one suggested to me that there might be a political or
religious subtext, which I do not like in mysteries. But this one is from
beginnng to end a top notch novel that shows Simon's growing skills and
depth of characterization. The title refers to the old days of a Jewish
mafia and brings some marvelous, credible characters into the mix. As usual,
thoughtful insights into interesting characters together with hard
boiled action. A great read for those who love good mysteries and good novels.

Michael Simon's "The Last Jew Standing" is his fourth book starring Dan Reles. In the first three books, "Dirty Sally", "Body Scissors", and "Little Faith", Reles was a detective for the Austin, Texas Police Homicide Squad. In this latest installment, Dan Reles has made lieutenant, and bought a new house for his live-in girlfriend and son. Things are looking up. That is until his father, Ben, an ex-mafia leg-breaker, shows up on Dan's doorstep with a prostitute, both fleeing from mob boss, Sam Zelig. Now Dan is torn between what's right and helping his father. As Zelig closes in, it becomes a struggle to stay alive and keep his family safe.

Suspense and thriller enthusiasts will enjoy this tightly woven, dark tale. I found myself so submerged in its pages, life stopped around me and I couldn't do much else.

I have found Michael Simon's Dan Reles novels irresistible from practically the first paragraph of his debut, DIRTY SALLY. Reles is a character who is not entirely likable but attractive nonetheless. A fish out of water, he is a Jew from New York in the Austin, Texas, Police Department in the early to mid 1990s, feeling less than welcome and doggedly hanging on for reasons good and bad. Simon's plot lines in each book are much more complex than they appear; even when something explicitly good happens to Reles, be it a promotion or luck in love, something bad is going to occur as a result. And so it goes with THE LAST JEW STANDING.

This book is as much concerned with Reles's past in New York as it is with his present in mid-1990s Austin. The occurrence that causes Reles to confront his childhood is the sudden arrival of his father --- who he hasn't seen in many years --- with Irena, a young Russian woman (and a self-proclaimed prostitute) in tow. Ben Reles, a small-time Mafia errand-runner, has himself been on the run for two decades. Now his past (as well as his present) has led him to an uneasy and unwelcome reunion with the son from whom he has been estranged for many years. It is no small irony that Dan Reles is on the cusp of coming to grips with his own new family, consisting of a son he didn't know he had until just recently and a woman he spends all too much time wishing he had never met.

All are in the headlights of Sam Zelig, a New York mobster whose history with Ben Reles goes back for decades and whose all-consuming anger is directed at Ben for stealing (from his perspective) Irena away from him. Zelig is possessed of an uncanny ability to get things darkly and maniacally done, and within hours after his arrival in Austin he is holding Ben, as well as the city of Austin, hostage in a crazed effort to get Irena back. Zelig exercises an inhuman brutality, one from which Simon does not flinch. Yet there is an odd, simple beauty to the narrative as well. Somehow, one knows from the very beginning of the book that things are not going to end well, yet Simon so seamlessly welds the plot together that the hard-won redemption and justice that occurs by the end of the story seems not only natural but also inevitable.

THE LAST JEW STANDING is by far Simon's best work to date --- a statement that has been true with the publication of each of his novels --- succeeding in every way imaginable and even in a few that are unexpected. I cannot imagine Simon writing a better book, but somehow I know he will.

--- Reviewed by Joe Hartlaub

This is the fourth in Michael Simon's series featuring Detective Dan Reles of the Austin TX PD. Beginning with Dirty Sally, the previous three were all fast-paced, gripping stories, peopled with colorful, believable characters. The Last Jew Standing does not disappoint - it is a first-rate addition to the series. As with the previous books, once I started reading, I couldn't put it down.

Simon's writing style is concise, clever and witty, with lots of snappy dialog and wry observations. I hope that Simon is busy working on another Dan Reles novel - the series is addictive!