Orca books aim quick, entertaining reads at both adults and youths
Short, snappy, action thrillers and mysteries launched by Orca Book Publishers are a sign of the times. In this fast paced 21st Century, it seems logical to have books for those who want a quick-read or to entice reluctant readers into enjoying one. Check out a few of these, fresh off the press.
The Fall Guy
Barbara Fradkin
The Fall Guy plunges readers into the dilemma of Rick O’Toole, a handyman/junk collector accused of faulty workmanship resulting in a supposedly accidental death.
With the possibility of a manslaughter charge hanging over his head, Rick has to sort out his problem with a knot of creativity.
Arthur Ellis Award winner Barbara Fradkin is best known for her Ottawa police series, Inspector Michael Green.
B Negative
Vicki Grant
B Negative introduces us to high school graduate Paddy Armstrong, who resents his stepfather’s seemingly lazy lifestyle. Visiting his “real” father, Paddy sees the loving sacrifices his hard-working dad makes on Paddy’s behalf.
But a simple blood test result turns his familiar world upside-down. Vicki Grant, another Arthur Ellis Award winner, writes a coming-of-age and timely tale of today’s families and the always challenging dilemmas of biological and step-parents.
The Drop
Jeff Ross
Dropping out of a helicopter at the top of one of the tallest mountain peaks in Whistler and snowboarding through the remote wilderness is one of the survival tests Alex and his classmates have to pass. The prize is two coveted positions in the Backcountry Patrollers, an elite group who rescue skiers and snowboarders venturing into difficult backcountry.
The Drop paints a breathtaking world of hazardous mountains, physical and mental challenges, survival skills and plus the hidden dangers of entering restricted areas.
Orca Book Publishers have winners in Rapid Reads, Orca Sounding and Orca Sports. Youths and adults will enjoy these short, entertaining books which immediately pull readers into the action and conclude with satisfying, often surprising conclusions.
Reviews by Judee Fong
Publisher: Orca Book Publishers
Price: $9.95
Page count: 119 to 158
Released: April 1, 2011