Welcome to another Tuesday celebrating bookish events, First Chapter/Intros, hosted by Bibliophile by the Sea; and Teaser Tuesdays hosted by The Purple Booker.
Today’s feature is a new download: Wonder Valley, by Ivy Pochoda, a swirling mix of angst, violence, heartache, and yearning—a masterpiece by a writer on the rise.
Intro: (Prologue – Los Angeles, 2010)
He is almost beautiful—running with the San Gabriels over one shoulder, the rise of the Hollywood Freeway as it arcs above the Pasadena Freeway over the other. He is shirtless, the hint of swimmer’s muscle rippling below his tanned skin, his arms pumping in a one-two rhythm in sync with the beat of his feet. There is a chance you envy him.
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Teaser: Patrick stood and caught Owen as he lurched forward, his son’s blood streaking the front of his faded polo shirt. Patrick gently peeled Owen’s arm away from his body, turning it toward the firelight. (57%).
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Synopsis: From the acclaimed author of Visitation Street, a visionary portrait of contemporary Los Angeles in all its facets, from the Mojave Desert to the Pacific, from the 110 to Skid Row.
During a typically crowded morning commute, a naked runner is dodging between the stalled cars. The strange sight makes the local news and captures the imaginations of a stunning cast of misfits and lost souls.
There’s Ren, just out of juvie, who travels to LA in search of his mother. There’s Owen and James, teenage twins who live in a desert commune, where their father, a self-proclaimed healer, holds a powerful sway over his disciples. There’s Britt, who shows up at the commune harboring a dark secret. There’s Tony, a bored and unhappy lawyer who is inspired by the runner. And there’s Blake, a drifter hiding in the desert, doing his best to fight off his most violent instincts. Their lives will all intertwine and come crashing together in a shocking way, one that could only happen in this enchanting, dangerous city.
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Would you keep reading? Do the snippets grab you?
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I love that opening paragraph. It sounds like fun. Hope it is.
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Thanks, Margot, I’ve heard good things about this book…so I’m eager.
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Both the opening paragraph and the teaser really set the scene well so it sounds like this is one well written book – enjoy!
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Thanks, Cleo, I think it will be. And I love books set in LA. Enjoy your pick!
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Sounds really good although I have to admit the opening is probably more appealing than the teaser 😉
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Yes, I think so, too, Ali….thanks for stopping by.
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I like the sound of this and the intro – plus I have a fascination with LA.
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Oh, so do I, Emma….I’ve always been a fan of movies and TV shows set in LA…and I love visiting there. Thanks for stopping by.
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I love the opening and the contrast between it and the teaser. I’d keep reading.
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Thanks, Candace, I’m eager to explore the layers and complexities. Thanks for visiting.
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Great intro and teaser. Sounds like a unique story.
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Thanks, Catherine, I think it will be. Glad you could stop by.
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It’s not my kind of book but I really hope you enjoy it. This week I am showcasing Heartstone by Elle Katherine White. Happy reading!
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Thanks, Kathy, I hope you enjoy your pick…and I’m glad you could stop by.
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Great cover. Love the descriptive writing.
sherry @ fundinmental My TT
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Oh, so do I, Sherry…I saw this one on a blog and heard good things about it. Thanks for stopping by!
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I’d keep reading. Curious about how it will all come together. Hope you enjoy it! My teaser is from Paradox Bound
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Thanks, Laura, I am eager to find out more, too. Enjoy your pick!
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The two extracts are so different – almost could be from different books! It’s got me curious – I hope you enjoy it.
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I agree, Margaret….thanks for stopping by!
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I’m definitely curious about this! I love your teaser and that blurb has me hooked. I hope it’s good! Most of my extended family lives in LA, so I’m always curious about books set there.
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Thanks, Loretta, I love books set in LA, too. Enjoy your reading!
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I like the cover and intro – curious for more. I hope you are enjoying this one.
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Thanks, Diane, I’m looking forward to it!
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I sure would keep reading. The beginning alone is so striking.
My TT from Passing Strange
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I think so, too, Laura…thanks for stopping by.
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Drarmatic teaser.
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Thanks for stopping by, Mystica….enjoy your reading.
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