Bad Tourists – Caro Carver

Posted on July 7, 2024 by J D Jung

(Reviewed by JD Jung)

Exceptional
In this riveting novel, three friends in their forties—Darcy, Camilla, and Kate—embark on an extravagant trip to the Maldives to celebrate Darcy’s lucrative divorce. Since their backgrounds and personalities are very different, we wonder how and why they became friends. We learn soon enough.

Twenty-two years ago, Kate witnessed the aftermath of a mass murder at a Dover hotel, an event that left her with deep-seated survivor’s guilt. However, she cannot escape this past, even with an idyllic trip to the Maldives. As she and others befriend an abused young bride on her honeymoon, memories return, as well as unsettling occurrences.

The chapters skillfully alternate between the perspectives of the four women, spanning past and present. This narrative structure not only keeps the reader engaged but also adds depth to each character’s backstory. The contrasts between their past experiences and present lives enrich the storyline, creating a suspenseful and emotionally charged read.

The lush setting of the Maldives provides a striking backdrop for the unfolding drama. The juxtaposition of the serene paradise with sinister undertones enhances the tension, making the novel a compelling page-turner.

Perhaps the most striking aspect of the book is its unpredictable ending. Just when the reader thinks they have figured it out, the story takes an unexpected twist, delivering a conclusion that is both shocking and satisfying. Also, after finishing Bad Tourists, I appreciate the satirical title of the book. It is quite appropriate.

Bad Tourists is a masterful blend of psychological suspense and character-driven drama, set against the breathtaking beauty of the Maldives. If you enjoy stories that keep you guessing until the very last page, this book is for you.

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An UnderratedRead Revisited: The Pursuit of Happiness: How Classical Writers on Virtue Inspired the Lives of the Founders and Defined America – Jeffrey Rosen

Posted on July 3, 2024 by J D Jung

(reviewed by JD Jung)

The Pursuit of Happiness

“Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness” is a well-known phrase in the United States Declaration of Independence. But what did the “pursuit of Happiness” mean to the founding fathers? American legal scholar, Jeffrey Rosen uncovers what the “pursuit of Happiness” truly meant to them and others, offering a compelling exploration into their philosophical influences and personal struggles in his book, The Pursuit of Happiness: How Classical Writers on Virtue Inspired the Lives of the Founders and Defined America.

Many followed the Stoic philosophers. For most, it included constantly learning and practicing daily habits that lead to character improvement and growth. This included frugality, moderation, justice, keeping one’s emotions in check, and many other traits that were thought to be that of one with “good character”. Rosen delves in depth on the teachings on writers and philosophers, such as Cicero, Pythagoras, Socrates, and Plutarch (just to name a few).

What I particularly found fascinating was what certain founding fathers had to struggle with. For instance, John Adams realized that he had to work on vanity and controlling his emotions. Frugality was one that many had problems with. That included Thomas Jefferson, who seemed to lack self-awareness. Additionally. Jefferson not only refused to free his sales even after his death, but also berated the talents of Black poet Phillis Wheatley, whereas Franklin and Washington held her in high esteem. “Jefferson’s racism was jarring even by the standards of his time.”

Rosen not only profiles founding fathers, but others such as Wheatley, Abraham Lincoln, and Frederick Douglass and what the pursuit of happiness meant in their lives.

Rosen teases us briefly with conjecture on what the founding fathers might have thought of today’s populism, threats of mob rule, an extremely divided electorate, polarization in Congress, and pandering politicians. I would have liked to read more on this, but that’s a topic for another book.

The Pursuit of Happiness: How Classical Writers on Virtue Inspired the Lives of the Founders and Defined America ” will resonate with a niche audience interested in American history, philosophy, and political theory. Rosen’s meticulous research make it a valuable addition to any enthusiast’s library, offering profound insights into the foundational principles that continue to shape the American experience. As a member of this niche audience, I eagerly anticipate further explorations from Jeffrey Rosen.

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An UnderratedRead Revisited: Hold the Line: The Insurrection and One Cop’s Battle for America’s Soul – Michael Fanone and John Shiffman

Posted on June 29, 2024 by J D Jung

(Reviewed by JD Jung)

“What sort of American tries to overthrow democracy? What kind of man becomes so consumed by a false belief that he drives across the country, storms the Capitol, and assaults police officers?”

Those are pressing questions from Metropolitan Police Dept. (MPD) Officer Michael Fanone, who was almost killed by rioters as he was guarding the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021. In fact, he suffered a traumatic brain injury, a heart attack and was diagnosed with PTSD. As a street cop for close to twenty years, he thought that he had experienced all “cruel indifference to human life”, but nothing compared to the hatred he saw from the rioters on that day.

This lifelong Republican describes how he was betrayed by Congress (and he reveals names), The MPD, city administration and worse, the police union. Also, fellow officers turned against him. He also feels that the media was complicit. Journalists twisted his words to fit their narrative and Fox News refused to let him speak on their network.

Michael Fanone’s memoir Hold the Line isn’t just about the January 6 insurrection, but what brought him to serve in law enforcement. He speaks of the unlikely alliances he developed while working undercover vice, like his friendship with a Black transgender sex worker. He also gives his opinions on crime, policing, and training.

I wasn’t sure what to expect when I began reading Hold the Line. Most memoirs that I have read tend to be filled with insignificant detail, and the authors tend to lack the ability of self-reflection. This is not the case with this one. I found each element interesting and integral to his life story. This book was difficult to put down.

Though he takes us through his life, he never forgets his mission: to bring “respect for officers who responded to defend the Capitol on January 6, and accountability for those responsible for all those involved in the insurrection.”

A “must-read”.

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An UnderratedRead Revisited: Russia’s War on Everybody: And What it Means for You – Keir Giles

Posted on June 25, 2024 by J D Jung

(Reviewed by JD Jung)

Exceptional
When I started reading Russia’s War on Everybody: And What it Means for You, I thought “I know all of this.”, as I considered myself relatively informed on the subject. However, I am so glad that I continued to read this fascinating, but troubling book. There is so much I was totally unaware of!

British author Keir Giles explains how Russia uses its military, espionage, media, cyber, organized crime, and other methods to accomplish their objectives. In addition to extensive research, he interviewed nearly forty people throughout the world. Among them were professors, diplomats, military officers and soldiers, and cybersecurity experts. They relate their accounts of Russia’s campaign against the West.

In addition to well-publicized attacks, he has included those relatively unknown to Americans, as they have occurred in numerous countries, such as the UK, Sweden, Finland, Australia, and Estonia. He has provided specific examples of electronic warfare, murder, sabotage, intimidation, identity theft, and disinformation. He explains Russia’s role in Brexit and how Russia exploits weaknesses and vulnerabilities in Western countries. Their attacks extend further than traditional targets.

Giles teaches us the history of the government mindset, which traces back to the Russian Empire. Will Russia’s actions change after Putin?

There is a lot of detail in this book, but it is necessary to educate us on the dangers, as well as to convince the naysayers. Which countries have fared better in protecting themselves against Russian influence? How do they continue to accomplish that?

So, what can we and our governments do to protect us against Russian influence? How can we contain Russia within its own borders?

So, if the Russian threat is not on your radar, it should be. If you are not even concerned, after reading Russia’s War on Everybody: And What it Means for You, you will be!

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One of our best revisited:The Riddle of the Sphinx – Alexandre Montagu

Posted on June 22, 2024 by J D Jung

(Reviewed by JD Jung)

 

Eric (Keyvan) fled Iran as a child during the Islamic revolution and grew up in Paris. He later studied Comparative Literature at Princeton. That is one scenario. What would have happened if he was forced to stay in Iran? So much of one’s life (or death) is determined by a single decision or act made by either the individual or at the hands of someone else.

As a young boy he questioned his sexuality, but at Princeton he knew what he wanted…Mark. He was so obsessed with him that he couldn’t see any of the warning signs or even the bigger picture.

“…á lifetime wasted in pursuit of meaningless love affairs and enslaved by jealousy; a brilliant but equally unfulfilling social life; and that unflappable monster time, obscure, yet deadly and inexorable, triturating the lives of the characters in the novel”.

“He recalled flashes of an insane and unspeakable love affair that had almost destroyed him and yet felt a yearning for the selfsame feelings of abandonment —the love or the madness that had led him to the edge of doom.”

Whether it was an analysis of Proust’s La Recherche, or Gustave Flaubert’s Madame Bovary, Eric could discern the flaws of the characters and the reasons for their ultimate downfall, but he was unable to see this in his own life.

Now as a high-priced New York attorney in a loveless marriage, at age forty-four he is reevaluating his life and the decisions he has made. That is another scenario.

The Riddle of the Sphinx provides several possible outcomes and we keep asking ourselves, “What if…?” Though author Alexandre Montagu does get philosophical, he doesn’t belabor the points. That is, you can enjoy the story simply on its own.

Montagu provides an intelligent storyline without compromising the human or emotion. At all times he is completely aware of the unawareness of his characters. Each one is deftly portrayed, and the images are vivid.

We learn of the history of twentieth-century Iran and how it contributed to Eric’s identity.  Events are described in detail, but they’re never mundane, whether from a personal or historical perspective.

There are so many layers to The Riddle of the Sphinx that it would be a perfect book club read. I am not exaggerating when I say that this one of the best books I have read in a long time.

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An Exceptional UnderratedRead Revisited: Visualize Yourself: Designing the Outcome of Your Life, One Issue at a Time – Aileen Nealie

Posted on June 18, 2024 by J D Jung

(Reviewed by Pat Luboff)

“This is you breaking free from your current reality. Dare to expand. Dare to grow. Design your path. You have a say in everything.”

Reading Visualize Yourself by Aileen Nealie is like giving your mind a long, cool drink of the purest water on a blazing hot day. In our current world, where we are constantly assaulted by negative and violent images and anxiety-producing advertisements, it’s a great relief to spend some time in the world of light and love that Ms. Nealie creates in her book.

And it’s in this world where she gives you easy, accessible instructions on how to create for yourself through the process of visualization.  With that groundwork laid in the first section of the book, you are ready to use the technique to address specific needs for healing in your life. There are visualizations to reduce anxiety, break free from depression, release fears, and more in the “Mental Health” section. Some of the other areas covered are life transitions, relationships, food, abundance, love, and spirituality.

For a book of less than 150 pages, it packs a big bunch of positive and useful ways to use your mind to enhance your life. Indulge! Everyone needs this book!

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An UnderratedRead Revisited: The Vacation House – Jane Shemilt

Posted on June 15, 2024 by J D Jung

(Reviewed by JD Jung)


2003 -Thirteen-year-old Sofie and her family toiled at a vacation house on the island of Paxos, Greece. This house was owned by a wealthy British family and frequented every summer by them and their friends. When Sofie is sexually assaulted by two teenagers from this group, life unravels for her entire family.Twenty years later we meet thirty-nine-year-old Julia, who lives in London with her daughter and husband, James. James is the headmaster of a prestigious school and must keep up appearances with society. Though she is three years older than her husband, Julia plays the trophy wife. She appreciates that James rescued her and her daughter from a life of poverty, so she is willing to exchange sex and cooking for her daughter’s education and a better life. However, she feels trapped.Each chapter reveals a great contrast, switching between Sophie in 2003 and Julia in 2023. As I read, I kept wondering how the two stories relate, if at all. Just when I thought I solved part of the mystery, the story took an unexpected turn, revealing a shocking ending.

There are so many layers to The Vacation House that will stay in your mind long after you’ve reached the final page. How much of oneself does a person have to give up in order to acquire justice, or even to be able to survive? From generational and class abuse to entitlement and denial, it’s all embedded within a fascinating story. Add the vivid geographical settings and complex supporting characters, this novel will engage the reader throughout.

Ultimately, The Vacation House is a gripping tale that keeps readers spellbound, unraveling its multifaceted plot until the very end. A must read!

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The House of Hidden Meanings – Ru Paul

Posted on June 11, 2024 by J D Jung

(Reviewed by JD Jung)

Exceptional

“Much as we seek power in every corner of our lives, it’s always already in us; it’s impossible to be powerless if you recognize that you yourself are power.  Life is power.

  Finding that power within yourself—that’s the hard part.”

 

I can’t remember reading a memoir that I just couldn’t put down. That is, until I opened Ru Paul’s The House of Hidden Meanings. It is structured in a way that continues to pull the reader in to anticipate what happens next.

Ru Paul demonstrates a great amount of self-awareness and isn’t afraid to show his vulnerability. In fact, he is quite relatable. He reveals how he felt that he didn’t belong, even within the gay community. He had problems with intimacy and felt he was undeserving of romantic attention. He yearned to be known and to simply be felt.

RuPaul acknowledges Drag as the source of his power. Through his experiences, he uncovers the transformative nature of drag and its role in shaping his identity and career. Throughout the book he keeps returning to the “House of Hidden Meanings”, the influence of his parents and how being bullied had continued to affect him.

I was hoping to discover how he was able to create such a successful entertainment empire, but that was not part of the story. However, his admission of always being rich in imagination offers a glimpse into his creative mind and abilities.

RuPaul bares his soul with honesty in The House of Hidden Meanings, inviting readers to explore the complexities of his journey. It’s a memoir that not only entertains but also inspires.

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An UnderratedRead Revisited: Ilium – Lea Carpenter

Posted on June 8, 2024 by J D Jung

(Reviewed by JD Jung)


“The game of espionage, at its essence, is observation, seduction, patience. And a fluid relationship with your sense of self. To commit espionage at the highest levels you have to be willing to forget who you are in order to inhabit someone else.”

Our protagonist, a young and single British woman leading a mundane life in London, followed the same unexciting routine every day. She even felt she was boring, wishing that she was not averse to risks. So, why would this make her the perfect asset for covert agencies, like the American CIA, Israeli Mossad and The British M16, to close an assignment that was several years in the making?

She realizes that her life is about to change when she meets a wealthy, attentive American man, thirty-three years her senior. When they marry just shy of her twenty-first birthday, he asks for her help. She is to assume another identity and merely “listen” to certain individuals and report back to a man named Raja.

What ensues is a series of methodically plotted encounters she is involved in, the details of which she is not privy to. What keeps us in suspense is not only the unfolding events and their potential repercussions, but also the uncertainty of how this new lifestyle will be resolved for our protagonist.

Amidst the captivating plot, the supporting characters are expertly developed and seamlessly integrated into the narrative. The reader gains a deep understanding of their personalities and motivations.

Author Lea Carpenter’s intent to infuse a personal dimension into the espionage tale is masterfully achieved. She emphasizes that events and characters on both sides are not simply black and white. The story proves to be utterly mesmerizing, making it a challenge to put the book down. I’m looking forward to reading more from this talented author.

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The Last Shadow – Michael Allen Zell

Posted on June 5, 2024 by J D Jung

(Reviewed by JD Jung)

 

Retired New York cop Julius Mosley found a new life in New Orleans. As a martial arts instructor, he is able to find an inner peace that was not available to him in New York. However, when his best student, Maya Gaines, unknowingly gets caught up with crime boss Vinh Nguyen, Mosley’s past catches up to him.

What I particularly enjoyed about The Last Shadow was author Michael Allen Zell’s vivid portrayal of New Orleans, far from the tourist’s perception. Through his skillful prose, the city itself becomes a character, its dark alleys and hidden corners serving as the perfect backdrop for the unfolding drama.

The characters are expertly crafted, with depth and nuance that make their motivations and actions feel authentic. From Mosley and Nguyen’s past to Maya’s realization of the burdens of her own talent, each character is fleshed out with care and attention to detail.

While The Last Shadow is a quick read, Zell wastes no time in immersing the reader in his world. The pacing is tight, the suspense intense, and the payoff satisfying. Fans of crime fiction will find much to enjoy in this engaging novel.

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