Book Review: Worst Case Scenario

Title: Worst Case Scenario

Author: T.J. Newman

Publisher: Little, Brown and Company

Publication Date: August 13, 2024

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

In her third thriller, former flight attendant TJ Newman delivers a heart-stopping tale of catastrophe and heroism in "Worst Case Scenario." When a commercial airliner crashes into a nuclear power plant in Waketa, Minnesota, the stage is set for a potential global disaster of unprecedented proportions.

Newman's strength lies in her ability to create a palpable sense of urgency. The narrative skillfully juxtaposes three focal points: the engineers and firefighters battling to prevent a worldwide catastrophe, a small team of firefighters attempting to rescue a boy trapped in a van, and the president and his advisors helplessly observing from a bunker. This triple perspective adds depth to the story and keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

While the characters may lack some depth, the relentless pacing more than makes up for it. The novel is hard to put down, with an emotional ending that packs a punch. Newman's exploration of the value of individual life amidst potential mass destruction is particularly poignant, as exemplified by the President's reflection on the paradox of saving millions versus saving one child.

"Worst Case Scenario" reads like a headline ripped from tomorrow's news, making it all the more thrilling and terrifying. Newman's background lends authenticity to the aviation aspects of the story, while her imagination takes flight in exploring the ramifications of a nuclear disaster. Fans of disaster novels and those who enjoy exploring ethical dilemmas in high-stakes situations will find plenty to appreciate in "Worst Case Scenario."

A big thank you to the publishers, Little, Brown and Company, and to NetGalley for providing an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review. 

Book Review: The Last Decade of Cinema 25 films from the nineties

Title: The Last Decade of Cinema 25 films from the nineties

Author: Scott Ryan

Publisher: Black Château / Fayetteville Mafia Press

Publication Date: June 18, 2024

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

As a fellow movie enthusiast, I found Scott Ryan's "The Last Decade of Cinema" to be a nostalgic and insightful journey through the 1990s film landscape. Ryan, drawing from his experience as a video store clerk who watched nearly every film released during that decade, presents a compelling argument that the 90s represented the pinnacle of cinematic storytelling before the rise of franchise films and superhero blockbusters.

Ryan's selection of 25 movies, from "GoodFellas" to "Magnolia," showcases the decade's diversity. His analysis of each film is thorough and engaging, mostly avoiding spoilers. The inclusion of interviews with writers, directors, and actors adds valuable context, though some contain plot revelations.

While Ryan's passion for 90s cinema is evident and infectious, his repeated rants against superhero movies and modern cinema did feel excessive. Once or twice would have sufficed to make his point without becoming repetitive. However, his unique approach of selecting only one film per director encourages readers to explore lesser-known gems.

Despite this minor gripe, "The Last Decade of Cinema" successfully rekindles interest in the films discussed and serves as both a celebration of 90s cinema and a critique of current industry trends. Although I don't fully agree that great non-superhero movies are no longer being made, Ryan's arguments are thought-provoking.

Overall, this book is a must-read for film buffs and 90s nostalgists. It's a passionate, well-researched tribute to an era when, as Ryan argues, "movies mattered" in a way they perhaps no longer do today, and it's likely to inspire readers to revisit many of the discussed films.

A big thank you to Black Château and NetGalley for providing an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review. This is one book you don’t want to miss.

Movies Analysed in the Book:

Ryan covers the following 25 movies, selected from the list of films shown at the end.

1. Goodfellas
2. Pretty Woman
3. Terminator 2
4. Prince of Tides
5. Unforgiven
6. Malcolm X
7. Short Cuts
8. Menace II Society
9. The Shawshank Redemption
10. Pulp Fiction
11. Reality Bites
12. Before Sunrise
13. To Die For
14. Clueless
15. Swingers
16. Citizen Ruth
17. The Birdcage
18. Two Girls and a Guy
19. The Ice Storm
20. Big Lebowski
21. Pleasantville
22. The Cider House Rules
23. Eyes Wide Shut
24. Magnolia
25. Star Wars: the Phantom Menace

The full list of movies Ryan considered from the 90s for this book:

Book Review: Society of Lies

Title: Society of Lies

Author: Lauren Ling Brown

Publisher: Random House Publishing Group / Bantam

Publication Date: July 9, 2024

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Lauren Ling Brown's debut novel "Society of Lies" is a gripping exploration of secrets, belonging, and the dark underbelly of elite institutions. Set against the backdrop of Princeton University, this thriller weaves together multiple timelines to create a complex and engaging narrative.

The story follows Maya, a Princeton alumna who returns for her college reunion and her sister Naomi's graduation. However, the celebratory weekend takes a tragic turn when Naomi is found dead. As Maya delves deeper into the circumstances surrounding her sister's death, she uncovers a web of lies and hidden truths that force her to confront her own past.

Brown's narrative structure, alternating between Maya's student years in 2012, her present-day life in 2024, and Naomi's experiences in 2023, initially presents a challenge to the reader. However, this complexity pays off as the story progresses, with the parallel narratives converging to reveal surprising connections and twists.

The author skillfully builds tension throughout the novel, particularly in the final third when the various storylines begin to intersect. The exploration of the Sterling Club, an exclusive social organization with a secret society at its core, adds an intriguing layer of mystery and danger to the plot.

This thought-provoking thriller not only entertains but also raises poignant questions about the lengths people will go to belong and the consequences of keeping secrets. For readers who enjoy suspenseful campus novels with a dash of social commentary, "Society of Lies" is a compelling choice that will keep you guessing until the very end.

A hearty thank you to Random House and NetGalley for providing an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review. This is one book you don’t want to miss.

Book Review: The Divide

 Title: The Divide 

Author: Morgan Richter 

Publisher: Knopf Publishing Group / Pantheon 

Publication Date: August 20, 2024 

Rating: 3 out of 5 stars

For the most part, Morgan Richter's "The Divide" is an engaging psychological thriller that blends Hollywood glamour with intrigue. The story follows Jenny St. John, a failed actress turned fake psychic, as she investigates the disappearance of her doppelgänger amid a web of murder and corruption.

Set in Los Angeles, the novel offers a glimpse into the entertainment industry's darker side. Richter populates her story with interesting characters, including a former K-pop star and a wellness-peddling actress, each adding depth to the narrative.

The author's writing style is effective, creating a vivid portrayal of Los Angeles that enhances the story. While the plot stretches credibility at time, especially at the end, Richter's storytelling keeps the narrative engaging. The exploration of themes such as identity and ambition adds layers to what could have been a straightforward thriller.

"The Divide" seeks to be a solid entry in the psychological thriller genre, offering an interesting take on familiar tropes. Sadly though, the  Texas-sized plot hole remaining unexplained at the end left me feeling dissatisfied and disappointed.

Thank you to Knopf Publishing Group / Pantheon for providing an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.