Reading Now

Ladies of Liberty

December 12, 2009 - ABC's Cokie Roberts introduces us to, as the subtitle proclaims, the women who shaped our nation. Judging by the table of contents, the book covers the period from 1797 to 1825, during which time the White House was occupied by John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison and James Monroe. Roberts will enlighten us about the women behind these men - women such as Abigal Adams and Dolly Madison and many others who probably didn't make my high school history books. I'm looking forward to it (although, a quick skim reveals lots of words and very few pictures, so this could take a while).

Last Read

Death of a Witch

February 27, 2010 - Police constable Hamish Macbeth has women problems of a varying sort in this entry in the series from author M.C. Beaton.

The trouble in the Scottish Highland town of Lochdubh starts when a woman calling herself Catriona Beldame arrives and starts dispensing mysterious potions to the menfolk. The potion carries a promise of sexual prowess, but all it really does is make them itch. Still, is that enough reason for someone to kill her and burn down her house?

As he investigates the crime, Hamish finds that Catriona has a more-than-checkered past and he wonders if it finally caught up with her. But, as three more women are killed one by one, Hamish begins to suspect that the killer may be closer to home than he first thought.

Lesley, a forensics expert, is helping him with the case and there’s a spark of personal interest, too. But, the appearance of former fiancée Priscilla and former girlfriend Elspeth make Lesley’s chances dim at best.

The convoluted relationships make for an interesting side plot as the three women, in their own unique ways, help Hamish solve the case. It all makes for a quick read with some surprising twists.

Favorite Authors

Fictional Cops

• M.C. Beaton
• Patricia Cornwell
• Sue Grafton
• Martha Grimes
• Carol O'Connell

Amateur Detectives

• Susan Wittig Albert
• Rita Mae Brown
• Joan Hess