Getting Familiar With Murder with Classmate Murders by Bob Moats

When I decided to read this book, I wasn't too sure about it.  Still, I tend to finish what I begin and so, I began the book with a bit of skeptic caution and I am happy to say that I did finish it and it was different than what I thought it would be.

First, the setting of the book is nice and it definitely shows you both the classier world and the underground of a city.  This is what I expect from a good mystery.  You want to see both worlds and Bob Moats does do that.

The characters have a sense of humor and that balances well with the darkness of the book.  In other words, you aren't kept in a perpetual state of gloom even though there are murders galore in the book.  I would also like to state that all of the characters are wonderful.  Yes, that includes the always grouchy Trapper.  I even have a favorite.  I also must thank Mr. Moats for including a positive spin on bikers.  I'm married to one so you won't be surprised to learn that Buck is my favorite character. Also, I am so happy to find older main characters.  Sometimes, people forget how refreshing that is.  

The story is great.  I loved the premise of it and it kept me engaged with each new development.  I found that the story never really dragged and I was always interested.  

Now, for the only unpleasant part of this review.  This is the only reason that this story did not get a five star review.  The story really does need editing.  If Mr. Moats reads this I would be happy to point him to the right direction because I do believe the talent is there.    Usually, I do not say anything about editing but this story needed it so much that it was distracting.  However, I still loved the story and Mr. Moats talent of storytelling is there.  

I would recommend this book for lovers of a good murder mystery.  I would not recommend this for people who are easily distracted by grammar.  

My Rating: 3.8

My Book Cover Rating: 4

Getting Spooked by Sleepy Hollow by Washington Irving

Every now and then, I love reading the classics.  I will confess that I have read this book before.  I was twelve then.  Since it's been over twenty years, I decided to read it again and review it for you while my mind is fresh with the story.
First, I would like to say if you are expecting the written retold story of the movie starring Johnny Depp or the television show, you will be disappointed.  This is far from those tales.  I would never want you to expect something else because I believe it makes you bias against the original story.  So, please keep that in mind as you read my review.
The story itself is beautifully written.  The words are very visual and make it easy to imagine what Mr. Irving describes.  The setting is interesting in that it is as much a character in the story as the people.  The trees and the building within the town are described in wonderful detail and you begin to understand the town's characters from its buildings and landmarks.  The setting does exactly what it is supposed to...Enchant you.
The characters are diverse and beautiful in their own way.  From Brom Bones to Ichabod Crane to the lovely Katrina, the characters are displayed with such interesting characteristics that they become very real in your mind.  They aren't perfect.  They all have flaws and it's endearing.
The story itself is wonderful.  I loved the spooky mischief of it.  It's well-told and very engaging.  The only thing that bothered me is that it is very short.  I do believe that it could have been longer but I still adore the story.  I do not recommend this book for someone looking for a long read but if you are looking for a short read, this book will be perfect.  I also recommend this to anyone who wants to read a good ghost story.  You won't be disappointed.


My Rating: 4
There is no cover for this book on my Kindle so I am not able to rate that.  :)