Dakota Franklin is author to the series Ruthless
to Win. Each book of the series, however, is stand-alone with references
that do not require the reader to know the story of other books. She lives in
Switzerland and writes exciting, technical novels. For the average reader,
Requiem at Monza might contain too much technical information, yet it will
continue to hold the reader in its grip of intrigue.


Jo Ann, the main character, is a securities specialist searching
for a vehicle part that the Italian authorities will not release for inspection.
The intrigue involves authorities and criminal minds allowing a lot of action
and twists to the plot. About the time you think the mystery will be solved, a
new twist steps in. Jo Ann, being the strong, tall woman she is (yes, tall is
important to Jo Ann), is able to think ahead most of the time to the possible
implications of the situation. Jo Ann brings a little humor, a lot of intuition,
and her ability to think outside of the box to give the reader enjoyment.



This is not a novel for the light reader, but is one that will
probably hold the attention of any racing fan to the brutal end. The race track
and drivers figure prominently yet do not overshadow the action. The high-tech
influence on the cars is important and explains many things that the non-racing
fan might grasp to understand the technology involved in putting these
high-dollar cars on the track.



NOTE: I received this book as a Member Giveaway on
  LibraryThing

Bubba and the Dead  Woman (Bubba Snoddy, #1)

C.L. Bevill has taken mystery to a new level. Bubba is such an interesting character ranging from good
ol' boy to refinement. He is honest but finds himself in so many predicaments
that he faces with grace and a determination to resolve the issues. Bubba is a
fun character and is included in later books

Other  characters in the book are funny and engaging. This is a fun and quick read.
From Bubba's mother to the local bed-and-breakfast owner / madame, the
characters give more color to this enjoyable read

Bevill is  an author to watch and read.

NOTE: I purchased this book  with my own funds. 

Killer Angels by Michael Shaara, available with Amazon and with Barnes & Noble.

This is a book about Gettysburg in the Civil War.  It concentrates on the 1863  battle.  I especially enjoy reading different points of view, both from  characters of the North and of the South.

Mr. Shaara has done his  research well and knows the vital characters well.  His writing allows the reader to feel he is there, watching, feeling, smelling, experiencing the battle  and the hopes, fears, desperation, and thrill of the battle is felt by the
reader.  Reading the descriptives of the scenery, the weather, the smells, and the battles helps the reader picture what is happening.  This is fiction but is based heavily on fact.

I cannot express enough my feelings when reading. I'm a Civil War buff to begin with, so of course I'm going to read the book.  I
do feel that those who aren't as drawn to the era and battles as I am will thoroughly enjoy this book.

I highly recommend this book for all.

NOTE: This book was borrowed from the public library.