Magic Hour

Rating:
Summary: Susan Isaacs writes a book from a male perspective
Review: Although it is not my favorite by Susan Isaacs, I feel compelled to mention that this is one of her few books written from a male character's point of view, and it works great. Steve Brady is a "real" person all the way around - a former alcoholic, he is apprehensive about his current relationship and his numbing everyday existence, when BAM, he unexpectedly falls head over heels for someone he never suspected would make him feel that way. I love Bonnie's character - I appreciate that she's not beautiful or sexy, just a real good person. I love the build up to their climax, and I think Steven Brady learns so much about himself in the process.

Rating:
Summary: This book was EXCELLENT!
Review: I first read 'After All These Years' and thought that was good, but 'Magic Hour' makes it seem slow in comparison. This book is extremely witty and intelligent, and even though it moves quickly, it seems as if nearly every line contains some humorous or perceptive observation. The narrator, Steve Brady, is instantly likeable, despite how flawed he is. Similarly, Bonnie is far from a 'perfect' person, yet Isaacs manages to make her a very appealing character. If I had one complaint, I would've preferred Isaacs had made BOTH Steve and Bonnie less promiscuous in their past (not a gender thing, it's just a question of safety!). Anyway, I would highly recommend this book. I don't think the mystery is obvious at all, but regardless, the puzzle is only one aspect of this story...which is definitely an example of talented writing. Don't miss this one!

Rating:
Summary: Emotional, but not surprising
Review: It's a little too easy to figure out "whodunit" in this mystery, but otherwise, this is one of those books that kept me thinking, even after I read the last page. I wanted to know what happened to Steve and Bonnie after they solved the murder and proceeded to lead ordinary lives. The greatest thing about "Magic Hour" and all of Isaac's books is the personal relationship you develop with the characters. A solid read, even if the ending is a little predictable.

Rating:
Summary: Great characters; Great plot
Review: Steve Brady, the narrator is a Long Island cop and recovering alcoholic with the perfect, twenty-something fiance. Why, then, can't he stop thinking about Bonnie Spencer, the ex-wife of the victim and the prime murder suspect? The description of this plot on the cover sounded shmaltzy and stupid, but being an Isaacs fan, I read it, and highly recommend it.

Before long, you forget the author is a female, because the male narrator is so believable. The characters are well-drawn, even the minor "supporting" characters. My only quibble is that I figured out the "shocking" actual murderer looonnnggg before the last few pages when it is revealed. Still, the book keeps you wanting to turn pages long past Midnight, and I felt sorry when it ended. You can't ask much more from a book.

Rating:
Summary: Vintage Isaacs Never Disappoints
Review: This was the first book I ever read by Susan Isaacs, and it's a great example of her really unique style-- beautifully written, often hysterically funny, and always "a ripping good yarn." Having now read and re-read her entire oeuvre, settling down with Magic Hour reminds me of sitting down to a hot toddy and a meatloaf-and-mashed-potatoes dinner on a cold and rainy night -- anticipated with pleasure, full of comfort, and leaving one with a nice feeling of satisfaction when it's over. Isaacs' characterizations are full and real, the often witty and/or self-deprecating inner monologues of the characters will have you either sympathizing or snorting with laughter, and the story is an interesting murder mystery. Buy it, read it, and then get Shining Through. The only thing disappointing about Isaacs is that she hasn't written about twice as many books!

Rating:
Summary: Vintage Isaacs Never Disappoints
Review: This was the first book I ever read by Susan Isaacs, and it's a great example of her really unique style-- beautifully written, often hysterically funny, and always "a ripping good yarn." Having now read and re-read her entire oeuvre, settling down with Magic Hour reminds me of sitting down to a hot toddy and a meatloaf-and-mashed-potatoes dinner on a cold and rainy night -- anticipated with pleasure, full of comfort, and leaving one with a nice feeling of satisfaction when it's over. Isaacs' characterizations are full and real, the often witty and/or self-deprecating inner monologues of the characters will have you either sympathizing or snorting with laughter, and the story is an interesting murder mystery. Buy it, read it, and then get Shining Through. The only thing disappointing about Isaacs is that she hasn't written about twice as many books!

Rating:
Summary: Vintage Isaacs Never Disappoints
Review: This was the first book I ever read by Susan Isaacs, and it's a great example of her really unique style-- beautifully written, often hysterically funny, and always "a ripping good yarn." Having now read and re-read her entire oeuvre, settling down with Magic Hour reminds me of sitting down to a hot toddy and a meatloaf-and-mashed-potatoes dinner on a cold and rainy night -- anticipated with pleasure, full of comfort, and leaving one with a nice feeling of satisfaction when it's over. Isaacs' characterizations are full and real, the often witty and/or self-deprecating inner monologues of the characters will have you either sympathizing or snorting with laughter, and the story is an interesting murder mystery. Buy it, read it, and then get Shining Through. The only thing disappointing about Isaacs is that she hasn't written about twice as many books!