Stiff by Mary Roach, 303 pages

This explores the history of cadavers throughout history and medicine up to new developments that are pending. This is not a book for the faint of heart.

Double Dexter by Jeff Linsay, 337 pages

Dexter is back, but this time he's the prey. This is another great read for fans of the books and tv show alike.

As The Pig Turns by M.C. Beaton, 292 pages

Agatha Raisin is back, grouchy and obsessive as ever, and still falling over dead bodies. This time it's discovering a cop roasting at a pig roast, unfortunately, the list of suspects is long due to his unpleasantness.
This is one of my favorite characters, mainly due to Agatha being such a character. The setting, dialogue and secondary characters all lend themselves to these books.

Soulless by Gail Carriger, 373 pages

Alexia Tarabotti has no soul, is a spinster with a dead Italian father (horror of horrors), and was just attacked by an extremely rude vampire. When she accidentally kills him with her hatpin and parasol, she is investigated by Lord Maccon, the local Alpha werewolf in London. It seems that rove vampires are appearing and disappearing, and some believe that Alexia is responsible. Just because she has no soul, does that make her evil? Can she figure out what is happening without breaking all of Society's rules and ruining what little reputation she has? Plus, she must fight her attraction for the horribly rude and aggravating Lord Maccon.
My mother-in-law recommended this book to me and I'm glad she did. It's Amelia Peabody (by Elizabeth Peters) with all the attitude and the steel-tipped parasol, with lots of paranormal beings thrown in, and a little bit of steampunk mixed with English regency romance. I loved the first book and am eagerly anticipating reading the next.

Red Moon by DAvid McAdoo, 200 pages

This is a graphic novel following a little dog who leaves a neglectful family, and discovers a powerful force inside him. There is a something awful coming and he must try to save the animals, but does that include humans. Throw in some murderous crows (like the word play?), and this graphic novel is an outstanding read. The artwork is dark and gripping, and the storyline had me eagerly turning each page. I feel guilty for not being nicer to my dogs, they might save my life someday.

Happy Accidents by Jane Lynch, 304 pages

Jane Lynch has shot to stardom with her portrayal of cheerleading coach Sue Sylvester on Glee, but she had been acting for years before landing the role. This book covers her childhood, her entrance in acting, years of doing pretty much every role offered, and coming to terms with her sexuality. This book was remarkably well written, surprising for an actor, but Jane Lynch brought her innate snarkiness to the written page. There seems to be a deluge of memoirs right now, but this is a great entry in the genre.

Scandalous Women by Elizabeth Kerri Mahon, 304 pages

I always like reading about the "bad girls" of history, they are the ones who make history. With chapter headings like Wayward Wives, Scintillating Seductresses, Amazing Adventuresses and Warrior Queens, this book covers some very amazing women, even some I had never heard of. This book is great for short reading bursts on breaks, and also intriguing enough to hold you attention for longer sessions. Definitely a must read for fans of history and women who changed the world.