Novelist Nicholas Sparks, author of ‘The Notebook,’ ‘A Walk to Remember,’ and ‘Message In A Bottle,’ among many others released his latest book called ‘The Choice’ September 25. Naturally, I read it right away.  Given the prologue of the book, the reader is on his or her toes as the pages turn. Something is going to happen, what, you don’t know.

The book is divided into two parts, and in its own sense, it’s like two stories, but wrapped together. Almost as though Sparks had one idea, and halfway through writing, he came up with another. The story primarily follows Travis Parker, who lives in small town Beaufort, North Carolina. Sparks is a North Carolina native, and he bases all of his books in small, often coastal North Carolina towns. ‘A Walk to Remember’ was also set here. In the story of Travis and his life, Sparks has become more vivid in his simple writing, painting a clearer picture of the backdrop of the story than in past efforts. And, by the end of the first half of the book, each of the characters seem very alive, which often takes time with his stories. While I am an unabashed fan of his books, I admit sometimes things are slow to get going. I was surprised that I was hooked merely two chapters in.

I’m not going to tell you about the plot, simply because I’m not going to give anything away. I’ll leave that for you to spoil for yourself. I won’t say this is my favorite work of his, but it really is a good, solid story, with elements I think most of us wish we could find in our own lives. In fact, this would be a great rainy day, ignore the laundry, and stay in pajamas read. It flows easily, and doesn’t feel laborious. Ultimately it’s worth getting to know Travis and the people who surround him. Just like with ‘Dear John,’ you won’t be sorry for it. And I’ll tell you this about the ending…. it will leave you considering some aspects of your own life, as many good books often do.

Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Favorite Character: Travis. Read it, you’ll see why.

On Tuesday, Hyperion Books released You Can Run but You Can’t Hide by Duane “Dog” Chapman. The book tells the life story of the reality TV star and bounty hunter known worldwide for the capture of serial rapist Andrew Luster and his show ‘Dog the Bounty Hunter’ on A&E.

In reading the book one is propelled into Dog’s world from his perspective. From his childhood to his troubled years as a young man, you’re invited along for a very candid and honest look at his rights, and his wrongs. He details his time spent in prison following a conviction for first degree murder, and his decision to straighten his path into bounty hunting. He also talks about his children, his wives, his faith and belief in God, and his road to becoming the man he is today. And, he details the capture of serial rapist Andrew Luster, which lead to his arrest (along with his son and brother,) and fight to avoid extradition that just ended over a week ago.

Overall, the book is a very easy read, but not for a younger crowd. There is some mature content, due to some language, drug use, and experiences. However, those who like the show will also like the book, and will find out things about his life he had yet to reveal.

Overall rating: 3.75 out of 5 stars.

Catch the latest special ‘A Man Called Dog’ on A&E August 14th at 9 PM EST.