A World of Thieves   James Carlos Blake

Well-written novel about a family of bandits in 1920s New Orleans and west Texas. Good characterizations, effective first person narrative, and historical accuracy. The John Bones bogeyman sub plot kind of gets in the way, and even minor characters have involved stories to tell, which got a little tedious, but in all, really well done. Moved right along, cared about the characters, felt authentic. Really enjoyed it.

The Butchers of Berlin   Chris Petit

Excellent novel about policemen in 1943 Berlin trying to solve a series of gruesome murders. Good characterizations, a complex plot that continues to reveal surprises, written in a readable prose. Took a little while to get going, but it was well-done right from the start. Felt like I was there. Very accurate portrayal of the nihilistic, amoral, sinister, brutal, and corrupt Third Reich. By the end couldn’t put it down. Really liked it, so much, I ordered the sequel.

Aspen Pulp   Patrick Hasburgh

Nicely written, engaging novel about a former ski instructor and television writer who returns to Aspen, Colorado. Everything goes sideways when he inadvertently gets mixed up with drug dealers and far-right militiamen. Some strange and unjustified plot twists, too many coincidences, and unlikely escapes made it difficult to take seriously. The ending was much too sweet. But it moved right along and kept me distracted for a couple of days. Enjoyed it well enough.