Category: Book Critic

Book Critic, Book Review, Books, Literary Criticism, Reading

Review: Blame the Dead by Ed Ruggero

by The Lit BitchLeave a Comment on Review: Blame the Dead by Ed Ruggero

One of the main reasons that I decided to read this book was because the author was a former military officer. I am really into military history, especially Civil War and WWI/WWII. My dad was also in the military and I grew up with military history.

I thought this one sounded like it would bring a lot of history to life mixed into a historical mystery. I also like that this book was going to be sent it Italy during the war instead of the traditional France or England.

This book ended up being quite a different read than I was expecting. So many historical mysteries lean toward the fluffy side, but this one was decidedly more gritty. Continue reading “Review: Blame the Dead by Ed Ruggero” →

Book Critic, Book Review, Books, Literary Criticism, Reading

First Impression Review: Children of the Stars by Mario Escobar

by The Lit Bitch1 Comment on First Impression Review: Children of the Stars by Mario Escobar

There are so many WWII books out that focus on female relationships and bonds during the war. Often it’s a sister or two best friends who grew close during the war. I haven’t seen any books featuring two boys, in this case brothers, during the war for quite some time which is why this book stood out to me.

I am only a couple of chapters in and have yet to finish it, but the novel touches on many heavy hitting themes, especially because the two boys are Jews during the Holocaust. This book shows promise in a number of areas. The writing is solid and emotional, packing am emotional punch. But for me, it’s the historical research that has endeared this book to me.

If you are in the mood for a heartbreaking story but one that is also full of love, hope and bravery. So far I have really enjoyed this one and am looking forward to finishing it because it truly is a great story–emotional–but wonderful and the writing is great! If you love WWII and memorable stories, this is one you want on your radar for the spring! As of right now, I would rate this book 4.5 stars, a great read! Continue reading “First Impression Review: Children of the Stars by Mario Escobar” →

Book Critic, Book Review, Books, Literary Criticism, Reading

Review: This Won’t End Well by Camille Pagán

by The Lit BitchLeave a Comment on Review: This Won’t End Well by Camille Pagán

This is a new to me author, but not entirely unfamiliar to me. I’ve seen her books popping up all over the Amazon charts, especially her release from last year, I’m Fine and Neither are You.

When this new release, This Won’t End Well, came up for review, I jumped at the chance to read it! Everything I have heard about this book and this author, make it inevitable that I will love this book!

I couldn’t wait to crack open my copy and let the good times roll so to speak! And let me tell you, this book did not disappoint! What a refreshing new voice in contempo lit! Continue reading “Review: This Won’t End Well by Camille Pagán” →

Book Critic, Book Review, Books, Literary Criticism, Reading

Review: Egg Drop Dead (A Noodle Shop Mystery #5) by Vivien Chien

by The Lit BitchLeave a Comment on Review: Egg Drop Dead (A Noodle Shop Mystery #5) by Vivien Chien

I picked up this mystery series on a whim when it first came out. I had no idea what to expect but I was craving ramen noodles and when I saw the cover of the first book, I felt like I could enjoy ramen noodles without actually having to eat ramen noodles (spoiler, I still ate ramen).

What I found with this series was a refreshing colorful series with lots of fun and quirky characters. When I pick up a cozy to read, so many of them are set in small towns and are full of baking or cat owning characters. Does this series have that? Well yes—-and no. I mean Lana Lee works at a Chinese restaurant, so baking—check. And she owns a dog—so owns animal, check. And it’s set in Cleveland Ohio—not so small town, small town. Basically, this series manages to tick the cozy boxes while still being different and memorable.

I fell in love with Lana Lee and I get ridiculously excited when I see a new Noodle Shop Mystery coming out because I feel like Lana still fits the cozy mould but she also manages to stay young hip and relevant for the 30 something readers. Continue reading “Review: Egg Drop Dead (A Noodle Shop Mystery #5) by Vivien Chien” →

Book Challenges, Book Critic, Book Review, Books, Literary Criticism, Reading

Review: The King’s Justice (Maggie Hope #9) by Susan Elia MacNeal

by The Lit Bitch1 Comment on Review: The King’s Justice (Maggie Hope #9) by Susan Elia MacNeal

When I first stumbled on Maggie Hope, it was early 2012. I was one of the first people to read and review Mr Churchill’s Secretary and I fell head over heals for Maggie right then and there!

I have adored many of the books in the series thus far and I can’t believe we are on the 9th book already!

Obviously when this book came up for review, I was thrilled to be reading more about Maggie’s journey and checking in with many of my favorite characters in the series. After the last book, I had high hopes for this one as well! Continue reading “Review: The King’s Justice (Maggie Hope #9) by Susan Elia MacNeal” →