I just finished off rereading #8 of the Constable Molly Smith series by Vicki Delany, all from the library. I was ready for something new. With all the chaos going on, you might think I'd avoid something like this. Nah. Both Ottawa, Ontario, and Coutts, Alberta, have nutbars running around restricting the freedom of innocent citizens. I wanted something to make me think.
I know many of you like Louise Penny's work (i.e., Book Review: A Trick of the Light). I have read every one. For my birthday, I asked for State of Terror. I wasn't sure I should review it, as I'm not very far into it (200 of 500 pages), but I am riveted. They seem to have combined their talents, knowledge, and experiences, as good friends, to create a great novel.
If you liked The West Wing, or Madame Secretary, you'll like this story. Of course our hero, U.S. Secretary of State, Ellen Adams, is a strong, clever woman. They take some digs at Clinton's nemesis, by creating a treacherous male president, Eric Dunn, who is Adams' nemesis.
Here is a sample of the writing:
"The new administration is coming in after a one-term Republican president," she said. "His name was Eric Dunn, who even people who were loyal to him jokingly behind his back called him 'Eric the Dumb.'"
We'd expect nothing less from these two women as writers. We have international terrorists as fanatics, homegrown traitors, and women with intelligence and wit.
"Thank you for your time." [Secretary of State Adams] held out her hand, and when [President Dunn] took it, she yanked and pulled the immense man right up to her, so that their noses were touching and she smelled his breath. It smelled of meat. ...
"You've made it clear time and again that nothing happened in the White House without your approval. ... If there is a disaster, it will be dumped at your big gold door. I'll make sure of that. ..."
You can tell they the authors are friends! Not having any close female friends as peers, I like to see this.
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@Barrie Summy
I just finished State of Terror, I liked it.
ReplyDeleteI read everything from Louise Penny. Take care, enjoy your day!
I'm so glad to hear you like this. It's on my wish-list. I love Louise Penny. (Do you get her periodic newsletter -- it's like getting a letter from a friend with a little about the books/what's up with her writing and a little about life. I wish she was my neighbor!). Riveted is a wonderful word and I'm looking forward to it!
ReplyDelete...we would be in a better place if she had won.
ReplyDeleteThis is on my list, but I haven't read it as yet. I do like Louise Penny's books.
ReplyDeleteI have not read this one.
ReplyDeleteIt was fun reading, and easy enough that I was done in a couple of days after having checked it out from our library. I especially liked the touch that included Three Pines near the end. But I think they really tried to put too much into it...every single scene had Sec. Adams handling it herself, with little being accomplished by our Foreign Service professionals. Maybe it was like that to Mrs. Clinton, but I have a different sense of our dealings in other countries. So I give it a 4 stars thumbs up, with a note that it had an unrealistic plot.
ReplyDeleteI read State of Terror, and although I enjoyed it, I thought it had an agenda, and didn't like that. I do love Louise Penny's Gamache books. Have every one of them.
ReplyDeleteI got State of Terror on Audible and really enjoyed listening to it, twice. Loved the snarky parts, former Secretary of State Clinton must have loved having the chance to put them down in writing. And I loved the twist that Louise Penny included.
ReplyDeleteI love Louise Penny too so will have to look for this one.
ReplyDeleteI've read it and loved it. Glad you're enjoying it.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great review and fascinating interview! I'm pleased that HRC found a productive and fun new avenue for her energy and expertise. They seem a well matched pair! You make me want to read this book too.
ReplyDeleteYou do select books of substance. In fact you read more books with U.S. political topics than I do. - Margy
ReplyDeleteI bet they had a blast writing together. I plan to read this. Thanks for reviewing! And thanks for the YouTube link.
ReplyDeleteI am anxious to read this one.
ReplyDeleteI have the book, but haven't had time to read it. Looking forward to it though.
ReplyDeleteThis is fascinating and I am hooked.
ReplyDeleteHello Jenn,:=) Louise Penny is not an author I'm familiar with, but from your review, the book seems like a good read.
ReplyDeleteAll the best.
I've read everything by Louise Penny but don't usually read anything in the thriller genre. You've made me want to explore this book!
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