Silencing Sam by Julie Kramer

A nosy reporter finds herself more immersed in her stories than she had ever feared. 

This was a good mystery with clues evident at the conclusion but totally masked by plot and subterfuge.  Riley Spartz was likeable as the somewhat ditzy protagonist.   Her character was very real including her ineptness in personal relations.   I particularly enjoyed her interaction with her parents.

This was not a figure it out on the first page mystery.   Ms. Kramer kept you thinking through out the book.   The perspective on journalism was a tad harsh but played well with the plot.   The bad guys were thoroughly despicable but that was only discovered over the length of the story. 

The characterizations of the farm community rang true.  Outsiders are viewed with skepticism.  The whole story had an authentic feel with strong connections to current events. 

I recommend it. 

Body of work of Julie Kramer

Web site: http://www.juliekramerbooks.com/

Bubba and the Dead Woman by C. L. Bevill

A mystery set in Texas but has the feel of the bayou.    Bubba, a good ole boy is accused of murder and appears to be guilty. 

This was a surprisingly good story.  Bubba is a likeable chameleon who appears to be a mindless baby Huey and does exhibit behavior that seems to confirm that assessment.   The Snoddy mansion and the local hangouts provide a very colorful environment to stage this amusing mystery.  

Bevill did a good job on crafting a wealth of potential suspects for a murder.  You are left to your own devices to determine who did what.   The Sheriff and others provide eminently dislikeable polarization from lovable Bubba. 

I recommend it. 

Body of work of C. L. Bevill

Web site:  http://www.clbevill.com/

Odd Jobs by Ben Lieberman

 Kevin Davenport is the main character in this story Kevin has had enormous tragedy in his life. The story is a coming-of-age in the seamier side of life.

Kevin was a likable character in spite of his many faults. I think because of the characterization and the language he truly represented a guy his age dealing with some pretty major problems. I think this seems represented in the factory where he was being hazed by the guys were true to life. Any college kid that has worked in a factory for a summer job has discovered that there oftentimes is resentment of the fact that they're in college and their peers aren't.

It is a sad reality of life the crime does exist. Most of us are fortunate enough not to have been exposed to it.  The book was pretty fast-paced and highly compelling. I think the author did an excellent job at the end in explaining the negative side effects of seeking revenge. If you get put off by violence and graphic action you may want to avoid this book.

I recommend book.

Body of work: Ben Lieberman

website:  http://benliebermanbooks.com/

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Keys to the Kingdom by Senator Bob Graham

This book  is a frankly dismaying and terrifying look at the political intrigue surrounding our home land security.

The credentials of this author are beyond impeccable.   He states that this is a novelized form of events around and after 2001’s attack.  30 to 40% of the story is reputed to be factual which is why this book is so scary.

We are all aware of the Madoff’s of the world amoral people whose focus is strictly on what is in it for me.   Political power, wealth, prestige are all components of this book.  The desire to hang on to the perks of power seem to preclude human compassion and concern for the well being of both the nation and it’s citizens. 

I think the book will tap into the cynicism regarding politics that is sweeping the nation.   I have heard more than one person stating the conviction that they are going to vote against every incumbent in every election.  This is indicative of the disappointment in those who purport to represent the interests of their constituents. 

Tony Ramos is a likeable protagonist who is attempting to discover why a friend and mentor has been murdered.   That search leads to the pinnacles of corporate America, the halls of government bureaucrats and the palaces of supposed allies. The most dismaying aspect of this book is the sense that it is all too true. 

Senator Graham has crafted a true page turner that wasn’t as entertaining as it was compelling.   It is a commentary on the perfidy that infects those in power, regardless of whether it is political or business power. 

I don’t recommend this book so much as INSIST you read it.  If it doesn’t raise your eyebrows and furrow your brow, I will be shocked. 

Body of work of Bob Graham

YouTube Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KO71yPlvcSA

Web site:  http://bobgrahamcenter.ufl.edu/