Captin Alatriste
Arturo Perez-Reverte
If you like Dumas, Errol Flynn or a good swashbuckling flic try Arturo Perez-Reverte for a good jab. Capitan Alatriste - now the flic "Alatriste" - is a historical novel set in 17th-century Spain at the time of its initial 'decline'. It is full of masked men, despicable clerics, ineffective royalty, poets, rogues, assassins, cavaliers, and of course a buxom innkeeper. Our story centers around a dubious midnight deed the Capitan is hired to execute. When Alatriste causes things go awry - much to his own surprise and annoyance - conscience and politics collide. Unwilling to flee and armed only with blade and dangerous knowledge; he must parry attacks from unknown quarters and dance with the devil. Written in Spanish and translated into 28 languages. I found the English translation to be compelling. The style and pace - un-knowledgeable as I am - convincingly Spanish. Enjoy!

A & R
Bill Flanagan
Working in a bookstore, you often get "Advance Reader's Editions" of forthcoming books.They are often uncorrected proofs in poor bindings with uninspiring covers ( yes, covers affect us too! ), and so I tend not to get too excited about them. This one was a bit different. Aside from Pat telling me to read it ( and Pat is Boss ), its virtues are extolled by the likes of Elvis Costello and Tom Petty.
    It is the story of one Jim Cantone as he accepts the job of head of A&R (artists and repertoire) with a giant record company. This is a both hilarious and sobering story. While somehow managing to get his work done, Jim is whisked off on a series of (mis) adventures by the head of the company, "Wild" Bill DeGaul. While Jim rides this wave of excitement, it begins to dawn on him that this new job might also turn into a "viper's nest".
    A beautiful rock n' roll story! My copy's cover wasn't half as interesting as the one above.

Good Omens
Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman
Worried about Armageddon? Not after this! A couple of angels (one fallen and the other a part-time rare-book dealer) realise that what with the advent of Armageddon they are soon to be out of work.So then ensues a comical alliance who’s aim is that of job preservation.
    Pratchett’s comedic approach is well partnered with Gaiman’s dark, mythological style. Their cast of supernatural beings, apocalyptic horsepersons and humans (Tibetans, Americans, Atlanteans, witch finders and wages clerks perform a pantomime tour de force.
    This book has converted more ardent anti-science fiction / fantasy folk than can be easily counted.