There’s a mix of genres in this week’s column. Some great fiction and a very interesting true crime story.

By Accident

By Susan Kelly

Pegasus, 2010, $24

It was a long wait, but Susan Kelly’s latest book was well worth it!

Laura Lucas is devastated by the loss of her teenage son in an auto accident. She has barely been able to put one foot in front of the other and do what she has to do for her remaining family, a daughter and husband. When a young arborist rents the house next door, he brings her out of her shell, seemingly a “replacement” for her son, but something more is afoot. Susan, please don’t wait too long to get us another book.

Villa Mirabella

By Peter Pezelli

Kensington, 2010, $14

Here’s a lovely book with wonderful characters. Jason Mirabella returns to Rhode Island with his tail between his legs. After making a major mistake during his career with a California firm, Jason needs (although he doesn’t realize it) the comfort of family and routine. He agrees to help out with the family’s bed-and-breakfast, much to the dismay of his brother. His father, however, seems to know just what Jason needs.

The Boleyn Wife

By Brandy Purdy

Kensington, 2010, $15

When we hear the name Boleyn, we generally think only of Anne Boleyn, one of the wives of Henry VIII. Anne had a brother named George, and this book tells his wife’s story. Lady Jane Parker has admired George for many years and convinces her father to arrange a marriage between them. Little does she know that George will never love her, and if the historical facts are anything like this book, he had a rather strange relationship with his sister and a few other folks as well. It’s interesting to get another viewpoint on Anne Boleyn’s short time as Henry’s wife.

Secrets of the Tudor Court

By D.L.Bogdan

Kensington, 2010, $15

For another perspective on Anne Boleyn as well as other wives of Henry VIII, take a look at this historical novel. Mary Howard is the daughter of Thomas Howard, who is excited that she will be serving at Anne’s court. Mary is pretty astute and tries to make sure she stays on the right side of the players while also trying to please her father. Another good read of that genre.

Dead Men’s Dust

By Matt Hilton

Harper, 2010, $7.99

Joe Hunter doesn’t hesitate to do what he has to, especially to protect his family. When his former sister-in-law asks Joe to locate his half-brother, John, he agrees to do it. What he finds is that John is on the run and in the middle of a big mess. Lots of action in this one.

Friends of the Family

By Tommy Dades and Michael Vecchione with David Fisher

Harper, 2010, $7.99

This is a most fascinating look at the case of two NYPD cops who went bad. Not only were they involved in looking the other way when some Mafia deals went down, they actually committed murder for the mob.

Dades, a detective, and Vecchione, an assistant district attorney, worked together to bring these guys down — and it took many years. It’s hard to believe that Louie Eppolito and Steve Caracappa got away with what they did for so long. Great book!

Contact Faye Dasen at fdasen@thepilot.com or (910) 693-2475.