Reading right now:

            “Deeply Odd” which is book six in Dean Koontz’s Odd Thomas series. If you’ve never read an Odd Thomas book, it may be time. Odd Thomas’ name was supposed to be Todd Thomas and would have been if it hadn’t been for the error on his birth certificate in which the “t” was left off and somehow “Odd” seemed to stick. I suppose that has something to do with the fact that he can see ghosts and solve crimes (even prevent them sometimes). I have read the whole series and found that some of the books are much better than others, but somehow the humor and humanity that shines through in the Odd Thomas character is compelling and sweet.   

 

On hold right now:

            Lauren Beukes’ “The Shining Girls.” A serial killer can travel through time to find the perfect victims. Unfortunately for him, one of his intended victims survives and goes on the hunt to stop him. Beukes is a South African writer who is currently adapting one of her books, “Zoo City,” into a screenplay. Beukes setting for “The Shining Girls” is Chicago where she lived at one time and which she found to be a bright, shining city.       

Of Interest:

            There are more and more mysteries which involve the paranormal. Once upon a time these books might have been called “gothic” novels, but are now broader in scope and include ghosts, vampires, zombies, werewolves, and all forms of magical creatures. It seems to be a growing market and many of them are really great fun to read. In this blog I have already mentioned several that I enjoy and here are some more to consider:

            Seth Patrick’s “Reviver” which revolves around a forensics officer who can revive the dead.

            S. G. Browne’s “Lucky Bastard.” A San Francisco PI who can steal people’s luck.

            Ben Aaronovitch’s “Whispers Underground” is the third book in this series of murder and magic. Start with “Midnight Riot” and “Moon Over Soho.” Aaronovitch is one of the Doctor Who writers.

            Others to try include: Madelyn Alt, Charlaine Harris, Victoria Laurie, Shirley Damsgaard, Ilona Andrews, Heather Graham, Karen Marie Moning, Yasmine Galenorn, Christine Feehan, Kat Richardson, Nancy Atherton, C. E. Murphy, and I’m sure I’ll be mentioning many more.