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Coyote #1
Blue Coyote Motel
Would you take an anti-aging hormone? What if you could keep your youth? If someone you knew was terrified of aging, and you'd invented the hormone, would you give it to them? Even if it meant discovery would cause you to lose your chance of winning the Nobel Prize?
Blue Coyote Motel is a suspense love story which begins in the barrios of Southern California and spans the globe in such diverse locations as Provence, South America, and the Himalayas. The beautiful Latina, Maria, and her husband, Jeffrey, a scientist fired from a prestigious laboratory, struggle to build a new life in a remote Southern California desert areas as owners of the motel.
Along with the anti-aging hormone, Jeffrey invents a "feel-good" wonder drug to help Maria with her depression. As Jeffrey becomes insane he begins to experiment with the wonder drug. Six wayward travelers, including an alcoholic priest, a couple who own gold mines in Brazil, a depressed widow, a struggling salesman, and a Native American pediatrician find themselves spending the night at the small motel. The next morning they wake up feeling better than ever. Has Jeffrey's miracle drug delivered? Or is the nightmare of addiction only beginning?
Blue Coyote Motel presents an engaging look at the human frailties present in all of us.
Blue Coyote Motel is a suspense love story which begins in the barrios of Southern California and spans the globe in such diverse locations as Provence, South America, and the Himalayas. The beautiful Latina, Maria, and her husband, Jeffrey, a scientist fired from a prestigious laboratory, struggle to build a new life in a remote Southern California desert areas as owners of the motel.
Along with the anti-aging hormone, Jeffrey invents a "feel-good" wonder drug to help Maria with her depression. As Jeffrey becomes insane he begins to experiment with the wonder drug. Six wayward travelers, including an alcoholic priest, a couple who own gold mines in Brazil, a depressed widow, a struggling salesman, and a Native American pediatrician find themselves spending the night at the small motel. The next morning they wake up feeling better than ever. Has Jeffrey's miracle drug delivered? Or is the nightmare of addiction only beginning?
Blue Coyote Motel presents an engaging look at the human frailties present in all of us.
448 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2012
282 people are currently reading
3463 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 175 reviews
February 5, 2014
The author must be wealthy and very generous to her friends or she has charisma flowing out her back side. That is the only logical explanation I can muster up for ANYTHING positive said about this book.
This was painful to read.
The plot description was interesting enough for me to hang in there to see if it got better - but it didn't. It was definitely NOT worth the time invested (which wasn't all that much to begin with.)
The characters were all boring with only one or two (usually stereotyped) characteristics: Maria the pretty Hispanic girl who was terrified of aging, Sean the defrocked priest, the angry native American. Need I go on? Yes? Ok - well - there's also the depressed wealthy widow, and how about the Amazonian gold miner.
The worst part was the repetition. If you cut out the verbose redundant self talks and the gushing repetitive admissions to others - the book would be about 6 pages long.
I really felt like I was reading a mediocre student's high-school creative writing project.
Why does this book make me feel so bitter? There seemed to be potential. It was disappointing.
Or maybe I just need a hefty dose of the Freedom drug.
This was painful to read.
The plot description was interesting enough for me to hang in there to see if it got better - but it didn't. It was definitely NOT worth the time invested (which wasn't all that much to begin with.)
The characters were all boring with only one or two (usually stereotyped) characteristics: Maria the pretty Hispanic girl who was terrified of aging, Sean the defrocked priest, the angry native American. Need I go on? Yes? Ok - well - there's also the depressed wealthy widow, and how about the Amazonian gold miner.
The worst part was the repetition. If you cut out the verbose redundant self talks and the gushing repetitive admissions to others - the book would be about 6 pages long.
I really felt like I was reading a mediocre student's high-school creative writing project.
Why does this book make me feel so bitter? There seemed to be potential. It was disappointing.
Or maybe I just need a hefty dose of the Freedom drug.
February 2, 2013
Instructions for mixing a ‘Blue Coyote Cocktail’:
Take one obsessive scientist who has just thrown away his career over a woman. Add a girl from the barrio who is obsessed with not growing old. Stir in a washed-up salesman, a defrocked paedophile priest, an angry doctor from an Indian reservation, an over-stressed gold mining executive and a depressed widow. Season with love affairs and sprinkle on some exotic locations. Serve chilled.
This is a difficult book to pigeonhole into a traditional genre (and I say this as a plus point). Although the machinations of Jeffrey the scientist provide an unifying theme, the characters’ various love interests are what are really at the heart of the novel.
Structurally, the book parallels a number of disparate relationships and situations. The first half contains some time-jumps which serve to keep us concentrating. As the various individuals converge on the Blue Coyote Motel, then scatter before re-converging, the story line opens and closes like a lotus flower – indeed there are some Buddhist motifs peppered throughout the pages.
This novel is well-suited to the patient and reflective reader; one who enjoys description and wishes to engage fully in the lives of multiple characters with personal demons.
If the book has a ‘hero’ it is Sean, the troubled ex-priest and former child abuser. This is an uncommon angle, and one for which I take off my hat to Dianne Harman.
‘Blue Coyote Motel’ is an unusual book, written by someone with a feeling for far-off places and for the existential fears that haunt us. This is Ms Harman’s first novel. I look forward to reading more of her work.
Take one obsessive scientist who has just thrown away his career over a woman. Add a girl from the barrio who is obsessed with not growing old. Stir in a washed-up salesman, a defrocked paedophile priest, an angry doctor from an Indian reservation, an over-stressed gold mining executive and a depressed widow. Season with love affairs and sprinkle on some exotic locations. Serve chilled.
This is a difficult book to pigeonhole into a traditional genre (and I say this as a plus point). Although the machinations of Jeffrey the scientist provide an unifying theme, the characters’ various love interests are what are really at the heart of the novel.
Structurally, the book parallels a number of disparate relationships and situations. The first half contains some time-jumps which serve to keep us concentrating. As the various individuals converge on the Blue Coyote Motel, then scatter before re-converging, the story line opens and closes like a lotus flower – indeed there are some Buddhist motifs peppered throughout the pages.
This novel is well-suited to the patient and reflective reader; one who enjoys description and wishes to engage fully in the lives of multiple characters with personal demons.
If the book has a ‘hero’ it is Sean, the troubled ex-priest and former child abuser. This is an uncommon angle, and one for which I take off my hat to Dianne Harman.
‘Blue Coyote Motel’ is an unusual book, written by someone with a feeling for far-off places and for the existential fears that haunt us. This is Ms Harman’s first novel. I look forward to reading more of her work.
January 20, 2014
“Blue Coyote Hotel” by Dianne Harman has at its heart an excellent idea and an intelligent concept that is very well presented and told with irony as well as compassion.
The main character Jeffrey is an idealistic scientist very much in love with his beautiful wife Maria. Working on an anti-ageing drug initially he compromises his work life for Maria, loses his job and ends up pursuing his dream of making the world a better place by other means at the Blue Coyote Hotel. The book actually begins with the story of one of the visitors to the Hotel and how his stay in their specially ‘air conditioned’ rooms positively affects his life. Throughout the book Maria and Jeffrey’s story is interspersed with segments about visitors whose lives miraculously change after staying at the hotel. For me this concept worked extremely well as we get to see the potential of Jeffrey’s dream and almost accidentally get to know some of the characters that will become more important for the plot later.
Harman has created two very interesting main characters with a lot going on in their lives and heads and she takes us honestly and compassionately through their changing circumstances while adding some other very colourful and entertaining people to the mix: A catholic priest, a Native Indian Doctor and an overweight business executive to name some of them.
With all the care that was put into the story and the people populating it, the book does an excellent job at making us feel for the characters, even if they bend the rules or are involved in ‘drugs’. You get to see where each character comes from and how their motifs are quite often benign and honourable. Told with wit and a great sense of irony this is a complex and engaging read that stayed with me for a long time after I finished it. With romance, idealism, moral aspects and even some suspense in the story this is a remarkable debut novel by a confident and compelling new writer. Harman tells her story with a perspective changing, confident voice which translates into a great narrative. I read the book in almost one sitting, completely involved, taken in and curious were the story would end.
Original, fascinating and very well written this is highly recommended.
The main character Jeffrey is an idealistic scientist very much in love with his beautiful wife Maria. Working on an anti-ageing drug initially he compromises his work life for Maria, loses his job and ends up pursuing his dream of making the world a better place by other means at the Blue Coyote Hotel. The book actually begins with the story of one of the visitors to the Hotel and how his stay in their specially ‘air conditioned’ rooms positively affects his life. Throughout the book Maria and Jeffrey’s story is interspersed with segments about visitors whose lives miraculously change after staying at the hotel. For me this concept worked extremely well as we get to see the potential of Jeffrey’s dream and almost accidentally get to know some of the characters that will become more important for the plot later.
Harman has created two very interesting main characters with a lot going on in their lives and heads and she takes us honestly and compassionately through their changing circumstances while adding some other very colourful and entertaining people to the mix: A catholic priest, a Native Indian Doctor and an overweight business executive to name some of them.
With all the care that was put into the story and the people populating it, the book does an excellent job at making us feel for the characters, even if they bend the rules or are involved in ‘drugs’. You get to see where each character comes from and how their motifs are quite often benign and honourable. Told with wit and a great sense of irony this is a complex and engaging read that stayed with me for a long time after I finished it. With romance, idealism, moral aspects and even some suspense in the story this is a remarkable debut novel by a confident and compelling new writer. Harman tells her story with a perspective changing, confident voice which translates into a great narrative. I read the book in almost one sitting, completely involved, taken in and curious were the story would end.
Original, fascinating and very well written this is highly recommended.
January 22, 2013
I picked up Blue Coyote Motel, because I like contemporary fiction, and it didn’t disappoint. Blue Coyote Motel is an interesting concept, because it leaves the reader with the feeling that it could really happen.
The patrons who stop at the Blue Coyote Motel are each facing personal issues and are given an unapproved drug that the motel owners call “Freedom” without their knowledge. Ms. Harman artfully tells the story of each of the travelers’ circumstances prior to their motel stay, which include social issues such as child molestation, alcoholism, widowhood and others. The travelers’ stories are developed tactfully, and the descriptions are detailed enough to feel real.
After experiencing “Freedom” each of the travelers’ lives improve, until like any drug, it wears off. The book’s pace quickens at that point, because each of the travelers start to experience life in its natural un-drugged state again. Read Blue Coyote Motel to find out what happens when the travelers discover they were drugged and how they live the rest of their lives with that knowledge.
The patrons who stop at the Blue Coyote Motel are each facing personal issues and are given an unapproved drug that the motel owners call “Freedom” without their knowledge. Ms. Harman artfully tells the story of each of the travelers’ circumstances prior to their motel stay, which include social issues such as child molestation, alcoholism, widowhood and others. The travelers’ stories are developed tactfully, and the descriptions are detailed enough to feel real.
After experiencing “Freedom” each of the travelers’ lives improve, until like any drug, it wears off. The book’s pace quickens at that point, because each of the travelers start to experience life in its natural un-drugged state again. Read Blue Coyote Motel to find out what happens when the travelers discover they were drugged and how they live the rest of their lives with that knowledge.
February 6, 2013
What an interesting book. This is an entirely original idea for a book, and I was hooked from the get go. This book takes you on an adventure following many different characters from different backgrounds, experiences, and struggles, as they hit their rick bottom in a small middle of no-where motel. The diverse characters are interesting and captivating, each with their own demons to address and conquer.
A book that artfully captures the inner desire, seduction, and pain from addiction, and the strength required in overcoming. Dianne Harmon fully shows addiction in all forms, from the literal drug addiction, to the addiction to youth and success, and how recovery is not always the chosen option.
This is a book about awakening to yourself, a book to escape with, and a book to enjoy. 5 stars & recommended.
A book that artfully captures the inner desire, seduction, and pain from addiction, and the strength required in overcoming. Dianne Harmon fully shows addiction in all forms, from the literal drug addiction, to the addiction to youth and success, and how recovery is not always the chosen option.
This is a book about awakening to yourself, a book to escape with, and a book to enjoy. 5 stars & recommended.
January 31, 2013
An intriguing story of people who have one thing in common, a stay at the Blue Coyote Motel. You don't want to miss this one and you may never want to stay in a motel again. Dianne Harman has done an excellent job.
June 13, 2013
This is not my usual read or style of book. I was a little uncertain at first as I got to know the first character through what felt like an update of his life - not what I was expecting drama wise. The writing is more narrative than action/dialogue. Having said that the story moved fast and my interest picked up.
Basically, Doug is at a bad place in life, until he stops off at the Blue Coyote Motel where his life turns around. Enter Maria who also wants to improve her lot in life, but she makes her own luck without the motel. She gets a job and meets scientist, Jeffrey. Love is in the air, but a few years down the line life hits a road bump when Jeffrey loses his job for breaking FDA protocols.
Several new characters enter the story, each with their own problem followed by a timely turnaround thanks to a stay at the Blue Coyote Motel. In between each story are snippets of Maria and Jeffrey's initially inspiring tale as they pick themselves up and set up in the motel business. And it could have been so good for them. Jeffrey though has big ideas for his Freedom drug and I secretly wanted wrong to beget good, but the author proved determined to show that life's short cuts do not come cheap and that the human spirit can win through all by itself. This is where the story wins 5* from me.
I enjoyed each character's tale, I wanted them to be happy, cringed as it all began to fall apart, then cheered to see various characters (not all) struggle through to the other side. It is well written despite the over-narration, beautifully descriptive in places, and well-researched. It told the complete stories of several unique characters and kept me happily entertained for many hours. I have to admit I felt inspired: You can hit rock-bottom and make it out on your own, albeit with a little help from friends.
I got this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
Basically, Doug is at a bad place in life, until he stops off at the Blue Coyote Motel where his life turns around. Enter Maria who also wants to improve her lot in life, but she makes her own luck without the motel. She gets a job and meets scientist, Jeffrey. Love is in the air, but a few years down the line life hits a road bump when Jeffrey loses his job for breaking FDA protocols.
Several new characters enter the story, each with their own problem followed by a timely turnaround thanks to a stay at the Blue Coyote Motel. In between each story are snippets of Maria and Jeffrey's initially inspiring tale as they pick themselves up and set up in the motel business. And it could have been so good for them. Jeffrey though has big ideas for his Freedom drug and I secretly wanted wrong to beget good, but the author proved determined to show that life's short cuts do not come cheap and that the human spirit can win through all by itself. This is where the story wins 5* from me.
I enjoyed each character's tale, I wanted them to be happy, cringed as it all began to fall apart, then cheered to see various characters (not all) struggle through to the other side. It is well written despite the over-narration, beautifully descriptive in places, and well-researched. It told the complete stories of several unique characters and kept me happily entertained for many hours. I have to admit I felt inspired: You can hit rock-bottom and make it out on your own, albeit with a little help from friends.
I got this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
February 15, 2013
My first question, “What is up with this motel?” There’s an over the hill football player with a blown out knee, who comes to the motel, ready to give up on everything. Spends one night…his entire life turns out for the better. A Native American with major anger issues, spends the night and wakes up happy and ready to take on the task of becoming a pediatrician and the tribe’s Medicine Man, to take care of his people.
Dianne tells of a whole cast of flawed characters with different problems that are somehow made bearable and also made their lives better, after spending one night in this motel, or so it seems. Dianne Harman tells you the story of what and where this motel came from, who started it and why. The mysterious happenings kept me moving forward to find out what’s going on with a disgraced scientist and his beautiful, narcissistic wife (it is explained why she became that way…truly heartbreaking) who run this motel.
I have to admit, there was one part of the book, I had a hard time getting through and once you read it, you will see why. But, the mystery of what is going to happen, kept me intrigued.
I recommend this book because of its original storyline and subject matter and the one thing that I came away with to describe this book. “Don’t mess with Mother Nature.”
Dianne tells of a whole cast of flawed characters with different problems that are somehow made bearable and also made their lives better, after spending one night in this motel, or so it seems. Dianne Harman tells you the story of what and where this motel came from, who started it and why. The mysterious happenings kept me moving forward to find out what’s going on with a disgraced scientist and his beautiful, narcissistic wife (it is explained why she became that way…truly heartbreaking) who run this motel.
I have to admit, there was one part of the book, I had a hard time getting through and once you read it, you will see why. But, the mystery of what is going to happen, kept me intrigued.
I recommend this book because of its original storyline and subject matter and the one thing that I came away with to describe this book. “Don’t mess with Mother Nature.”
November 6, 2012
I found the premise of Blue Coyote Motel both original and intriguing. Imagine a drug that would instantly alleviate depression, anger, grief. A mental panacea that would utterly transform the human condition.
It all seems a little too good to be true; and of course it is. Nothing comes without a cost.
Dianne Harman has taken an intriguing idea, and woven it into a fascinating and absorbing story. She has created a collection of strong and believable characters, drawn from a wide spectrum of contemporary American society.
Doug, the embittered, divorced, ex-college football star, is as well drawn and as believable a character as Maria, the beautiful Latin American who dreads returning to the terrible poverty of her childhood, or Sam, the Native American doctor, who is torn between the old ways of his people, and those of 21st century America.
Dianne Harman's writing is sharp, economical, and thoroughly engrossing. She never allows her reader to catch their breath, or her story to flag even for a moment.
I cannot recommend this book highly enough. It is safely in the fingertip library of my Kindle, and I expect will be enjoyed again in the not too distant future.
It all seems a little too good to be true; and of course it is. Nothing comes without a cost.
Dianne Harman has taken an intriguing idea, and woven it into a fascinating and absorbing story. She has created a collection of strong and believable characters, drawn from a wide spectrum of contemporary American society.
Doug, the embittered, divorced, ex-college football star, is as well drawn and as believable a character as Maria, the beautiful Latin American who dreads returning to the terrible poverty of her childhood, or Sam, the Native American doctor, who is torn between the old ways of his people, and those of 21st century America.
Dianne Harman's writing is sharp, economical, and thoroughly engrossing. She never allows her reader to catch their breath, or her story to flag even for a moment.
I cannot recommend this book highly enough. It is safely in the fingertip library of my Kindle, and I expect will be enjoyed again in the not too distant future.
January 19, 2013
Right from the start, the book's title and cover, I was drawn to Blue Coyote Motel. And as I started reading I wasn't disappointed. A very interesting premise - a drug that instantly alleviates a variety of current day emotional maladies.
But as the strong cast of characters soon discover, nothing is that easy.
It's original and I like Harman's tight writing style a lot.
This one was a very pleasant surprise and I'll be on the lookout for additional books from Ms. Harman.
But as the strong cast of characters soon discover, nothing is that easy.
It's original and I like Harman's tight writing style a lot.
This one was a very pleasant surprise and I'll be on the lookout for additional books from Ms. Harman.
March 17, 2013
What happens when a euphoric drug gets out of control? The author gives us just enough background of each of the main characters that we get to know them without losing the main story. When they stay at the Blue Coyote Motel, their problems seem to vanish. That's what they believe, at first. Little do they know that they are breathing a drug that is in the motel's airconditioning system. In a combination of Hitchcock and the Twilight Zone, consequences can and do happen, enveloping the readers in a maze of uneasy feelings and gripping side effects which keep the suspense going to the end.
August 20, 2013
From the moment the first character finds himself "smack dab in the middle of the Mojave Desert, otherwise known as the armpit of California" only to find surprisingly charming accommodations at the Blue Coyote Motel, I was thoroughly captivated. Ms. Harman pulls you into that motel, and all of its dark secrets, with a masterful touch. A seductive touch, really, because just like the motel beckons its visitors to return, she makes us want to return with them. We feel a little voyeuristic. We can't help but want to know if they'll be drawn back into their previous shadowy lives, or will they succumb to an even more sinister temptation that waits for them at the motel!
Take a deep breath before you start reading this. You'll need it. As the terribly flawed characters race to the finish, you're not sure if you want them to breath or not. Which addiction is worse?
Ms. Harman weaves a very good tale here, a wonderful summer read: pure escapism! I look forward to the sequel!
Take a deep breath before you start reading this. You'll need it. As the terribly flawed characters race to the finish, you're not sure if you want them to breath or not. Which addiction is worse?
Ms. Harman weaves a very good tale here, a wonderful summer read: pure escapism! I look forward to the sequel!
April 20, 2019
Blue Coyote Motel addresses many important issues; the most prevalent being women's poor self-image, drug addiction and the violation of issuing drugs to unsuspecting victims. The plot revolves around a mad scientist and his image-obsessed wife who set up a motel in the middle of a desert. He organizes an illegal lab in the basement of the motel where he fabricates clandestine drugs to alleviate his wife's fears of getting old and another one that will save the whole of humanity from depression and evil and therefore make the world a better place. His guinea pigs are the weak and unsuspecting clients who stop by for a restful night.
Dianne Harman's suspense novel brings us beyond her unique story plot. There is a message of hope here that empowers all of us; that we must look into ourselves to find our inner strength to overcome our fears and weaknesses. This story doesn't simply aim to entertain; it is an affirmation of the goodness inherent in each and everyone.
Dianne Harman's suspense novel brings us beyond her unique story plot. There is a message of hope here that empowers all of us; that we must look into ourselves to find our inner strength to overcome our fears and weaknesses. This story doesn't simply aim to entertain; it is an affirmation of the goodness inherent in each and everyone.
January 23, 2013
A fun read! Dianne Harman is an exciting storyteller. Loved all the characters.
March 28, 2013
The cover on this novel is perfect. It is an unusual premise, that of a rather mad scientist who might have been a Nobel Prize winner if he hadn't strayed from the legalities of his position as a research scientist for a drug company, which causes his termination as an employee. He concocts a feel-good drug which will drive away all the despair, angst and unhappiness from anyone who uses it and tests his creation on a few unsuspecting overnight guests at the Blue Coyote Motel.
This is a multi-faceted story, told from several points of view, including the story of the scientist's wife, Maria, who hides an event from the past which haunts her, and the six motel guests who were affected by the drug. Maria determines who she thinks could use the drug, which guests need help, and their lives are affected from that point on, by the drug, which allows all of them to become more creative, more successful. Happier and contented. In some cases, lives that move from utter failure to absolute success. Unfortunately, also addicted.
Sometimes, I thought events happened a little too conveniently to be believable. Everything fell into place for Maria, the poor Hispanic girl from the barrio, a bit too easily. Everything works out for the motel guests too smoothly. But that aside, it is an engaging story that made me want to get back to it to discover what would happen next. The author makes use of vehicles that attempt to perpetuate the interest in the story such as "Little did they know their new life would become a living hell." This sentence was the last in a chapter. It made me think of the "omniscient" point of view, that the author is all-knowing.
No matter, this book was engaging. The story was unique and I am always drawn to novels that are from multiple points of view. And further, unlikely characters that come together are always interesting to me. I enjoyed it. I couldn't wait to get back to it. The story prevailed, despite some of the devices used to tell it. Recommended to all readers who enjoy good plot-driven novels.
This is a multi-faceted story, told from several points of view, including the story of the scientist's wife, Maria, who hides an event from the past which haunts her, and the six motel guests who were affected by the drug. Maria determines who she thinks could use the drug, which guests need help, and their lives are affected from that point on, by the drug, which allows all of them to become more creative, more successful. Happier and contented. In some cases, lives that move from utter failure to absolute success. Unfortunately, also addicted.
Sometimes, I thought events happened a little too conveniently to be believable. Everything fell into place for Maria, the poor Hispanic girl from the barrio, a bit too easily. Everything works out for the motel guests too smoothly. But that aside, it is an engaging story that made me want to get back to it to discover what would happen next. The author makes use of vehicles that attempt to perpetuate the interest in the story such as "Little did they know their new life would become a living hell." This sentence was the last in a chapter. It made me think of the "omniscient" point of view, that the author is all-knowing.
No matter, this book was engaging. The story was unique and I am always drawn to novels that are from multiple points of view. And further, unlikely characters that come together are always interesting to me. I enjoyed it. I couldn't wait to get back to it. The story prevailed, despite some of the devices used to tell it. Recommended to all readers who enjoy good plot-driven novels.
March 12, 2013
From the beginning of the story I actually liked Doug, he was described well and came across very realistic. I also liked Maria and Jeffrey who both had their own addictive personalities. In fact, each character had something they were struggling with from childhood onward, but as for Jeffrey, he was determined to heal himself and others even at a high price, perhaps a fatal one. I like how each character came from different ethic, economic, and spiritual backgrounds, and how Dianne showed that no matter who you are in this world, you will always have something within you (imperfection, sin, illness, or a vice) that you will have to either learn to cope with or seek help for.
I kept reading this story because I was trying to figure out what was so special about the "Blue Coyote Motel" and why did each character seem to change for the better after they left there. At first I wondered if there was something in the food or was it something about Maria, but I was so glad when I found out the answer. The suspense was killing me!
This story made me feel like I was watching a sci-fi mystery, almost like a modern-day Alfred Hitchcock movie. I hope there will be a sequel considering the ending.
Overall, this story was so unique, and I admire the cohesiveness and how everything came together and made sense. If only there were a perfect "cure" to everlasting happiness and beauty, then none of us would have anything to complain about, except Jeffrey who just couldn't figure it out without the side effects.
I kept reading this story because I was trying to figure out what was so special about the "Blue Coyote Motel" and why did each character seem to change for the better after they left there. At first I wondered if there was something in the food or was it something about Maria, but I was so glad when I found out the answer. The suspense was killing me!
This story made me feel like I was watching a sci-fi mystery, almost like a modern-day Alfred Hitchcock movie. I hope there will be a sequel considering the ending.
Overall, this story was so unique, and I admire the cohesiveness and how everything came together and made sense. If only there were a perfect "cure" to everlasting happiness and beauty, then none of us would have anything to complain about, except Jeffrey who just couldn't figure it out without the side effects.
February 16, 2013
Maria grew up in a barrio, but followed her mother's recommendations and found herself a wealthy man and secure employment. Life's looking sunny for Maria. The only problem is beautiful Maria is terrified of growing older and one day losing her looks. Her husband, Jeffrey, a brilliant scientist, discovers an anti-aging drug, and gives it to his wife, despite the fact that it hasn't been FDA approved. When someone learns Jeffrey has been administering the drug to his wife, he's promptly given a payoff for his silence and fired. What the couple decides to do next has a shocking impact on several lives.
I don't want to put any spoilers here, but I will say you'll meet many characters, all lead diverse interesting lives, and the twists and turns that happened in this book kept me constantly guessing. Don't miss it!
I don't want to put any spoilers here, but I will say you'll meet many characters, all lead diverse interesting lives, and the twists and turns that happened in this book kept me constantly guessing. Don't miss it!
September 26, 2013
So what would you do if you were traveling through the pitch dark emptiness of the southwestern desert late at night, road weary and wanting sleep, and you saw this comfy, inviting, brilliantly lit motel miles from any signs of civilization? Would alarm bells go off? Would you pull in anyway? My first thought after reading the first half of Dianne Harman's "Blue Coyote Motel" was: wouldn't it be wonderful to spend a couple of days there. My first thought after reading the end of the book was similar to how I felt after watching "Psycho": I'll never spend the night alone in a motel again. Just ask any of the ensemble of characters in Dianne's book what they would do. Better yet, read it and find out what they DID do. If you've got the nerve.
June 10, 2014
Diane Harmon has taken one of the world's common maladies and transcended it into a beautiful and poignant story. Her novel projects understanding, empathy and compassion for Maria Rodriguez a beautiful young woman suffering from depression. The story line is well-spun and intriguing, and the characters, from Maria to the Nobel-prize Jeffrey to the downtrodden Sam and others are captivating, vulnerable and visual. The dialogue is crisp and believable. I appreciate the work in this novel and recommend it without reservation. I really enjoy the Coyote series and this writer's contributions.... You will too!
December 30, 2012
A well written novel. The characters visit the Blue Coyote Motel where there is something in the air. Jeffery a manic depressive, and the beautiful Maria come together. This couple may hold the key to this mystery. The characters in the book come from different backgrounds and have a variety of issues. The story unfolds and takes the reader across continents.
This is an engaging, fast paced story and if you want something different, this is definitely a recommended read.
This is an engaging, fast paced story and if you want something different, this is definitely a recommended read.
February 13, 2013
Blue Coyote Motel
Blue Coyote Motel presents as a good story, with the potential to spin out there into several vignettes - and that's my favorite kind of novel.
Dianne Harman doesn't merely tap into that potential: she milks it for all it can give.
Ms. Harman takes this "good" story and makes it a great one, as those of us who have had the pleasure of losing ourselves inside The Motel can attest to. Of course, the reader has the right to expect authors to be trustworthy as they lead us through a story. We count on the storyteller to take us where they want us to go. What I didn't expect, what had me flying through this novel, was the uncompromising (to the point of brutal) honesty of her depictions of every topic she wrote about.
I'm all about the social issues, and Ms. Harman weaves several of them into her novel: poverty; sexual assault/child molestation; alcoholism - even the plight of the Native American is addressed. (As are many Native American customs, which I found to be fascinating.) Sam, the young pediatrician who struggles with his Native American heritage, was one of my favorite characters - and by the way, I absolutely loved how he arrived at Blue Coyote Motel.
But back to the social issues: simply put, Ms. Harman is fearless, and I greatly admire that. What I'm taking away from this novel is, of course, a great read: it's going to take me a while to get back into real life here; however, what will stay with me is her uncompromising indictment of a culture - one which is possessed by the drive to find that drug called "Freedom".
It occurs to me that many believe they have already found it. You'll have to buy Blue Coyote Motel to understand. What a message.
There is graphic sexuality in this novel, so I give it an "adult" rating. I'm not a fan of overt sexuality in literature, but the story made it worth overlooking.
I'll be first in line to grab her next novel, Tea Party Teddy, which is due to be released this year.
Blue Coyote Motel presents as a good story, with the potential to spin out there into several vignettes - and that's my favorite kind of novel.
Dianne Harman doesn't merely tap into that potential: she milks it for all it can give.
Ms. Harman takes this "good" story and makes it a great one, as those of us who have had the pleasure of losing ourselves inside The Motel can attest to. Of course, the reader has the right to expect authors to be trustworthy as they lead us through a story. We count on the storyteller to take us where they want us to go. What I didn't expect, what had me flying through this novel, was the uncompromising (to the point of brutal) honesty of her depictions of every topic she wrote about.
I'm all about the social issues, and Ms. Harman weaves several of them into her novel: poverty; sexual assault/child molestation; alcoholism - even the plight of the Native American is addressed. (As are many Native American customs, which I found to be fascinating.) Sam, the young pediatrician who struggles with his Native American heritage, was one of my favorite characters - and by the way, I absolutely loved how he arrived at Blue Coyote Motel.
But back to the social issues: simply put, Ms. Harman is fearless, and I greatly admire that. What I'm taking away from this novel is, of course, a great read: it's going to take me a while to get back into real life here; however, what will stay with me is her uncompromising indictment of a culture - one which is possessed by the drive to find that drug called "Freedom".
It occurs to me that many believe they have already found it. You'll have to buy Blue Coyote Motel to understand. What a message.
There is graphic sexuality in this novel, so I give it an "adult" rating. I'm not a fan of overt sexuality in literature, but the story made it worth overlooking.
I'll be first in line to grab her next novel, Tea Party Teddy, which is due to be released this year.
October 27, 2013
“Blue Coyote Motel” by Dianne Harman is an intriguing psychological thriller that makes the readers think of such eternal themes as the power of science, ethical dilemmas that scientists face, and what happens when personal interests and love get in the way of professionalism.
The book is fascinating on so many levels: I loved the portrayal of the yearning for a better life that Maria, the female protagonist, is trying to satisfy in her quest for perfection. Unfortunately, as the author shows us, her quest is misguided, and she realizes that, but that realization comes a little too late for Jeffrey, her husband.
“Blue Coyote Motel” shows the struggles of a number of different characters in their desire to build a better life, all characters are well-drawn and interesting. Their connection is the Blue Coyote Motel where they all spend a short but memorable time that significantly alters the course of their lives. I loved the different settings (besides the motel, which was fascinating in itself!) that Dianne Harman takes us to. I especially enjoyed reading about one character’s travels to Nepal for the Mani Rimdu festival.
The themes in this book reminded me of Nathaniel Hawthorne’s “Dr. Heidegger’s Experiment” and “The Birthmark,” stories in which the characters also obsess with looks, perfection, and eternal beauty, and try to use science to achieve such perfection. These themes are eternal and appear in such classics as “Frankenstein” and “Dr. Faustus,” but Dianne Harman presents these themes in a new, unique, and fresh way, and in a modern context, just perfect for today’s readers.
The writing style in this book is beautiful and mesmerizing, the plot is intriguing (with plenty of twists and turns!), and the characters are portrayed in a realistic way. A wonderful book! Highly recommended! I look forward to reading more from Dianne Harman.
The book is fascinating on so many levels: I loved the portrayal of the yearning for a better life that Maria, the female protagonist, is trying to satisfy in her quest for perfection. Unfortunately, as the author shows us, her quest is misguided, and she realizes that, but that realization comes a little too late for Jeffrey, her husband.
“Blue Coyote Motel” shows the struggles of a number of different characters in their desire to build a better life, all characters are well-drawn and interesting. Their connection is the Blue Coyote Motel where they all spend a short but memorable time that significantly alters the course of their lives. I loved the different settings (besides the motel, which was fascinating in itself!) that Dianne Harman takes us to. I especially enjoyed reading about one character’s travels to Nepal for the Mani Rimdu festival.
The themes in this book reminded me of Nathaniel Hawthorne’s “Dr. Heidegger’s Experiment” and “The Birthmark,” stories in which the characters also obsess with looks, perfection, and eternal beauty, and try to use science to achieve such perfection. These themes are eternal and appear in such classics as “Frankenstein” and “Dr. Faustus,” but Dianne Harman presents these themes in a new, unique, and fresh way, and in a modern context, just perfect for today’s readers.
The writing style in this book is beautiful and mesmerizing, the plot is intriguing (with plenty of twists and turns!), and the characters are portrayed in a realistic way. A wonderful book! Highly recommended! I look forward to reading more from Dianne Harman.
October 12, 2013
Check into the Blue Coyote Motel
The majority of people we meet in real life are neither all good nor all bad. In Blue Coyote Motel, by Dianne Harman, she weaves the stories of an assortment of characters. With her gift of creativity and her imagination, she sends the reader through the gamut of human emotions.
As they deal with the challenges of life, the characters inadvertently find their troubles resolved. Addictions, such as food, smoking and sex, are easily overcome. Rage at a level needing anger management intervention simply dissipates. Worries about the normal human process of aging prevented. Grief to the brink of suicide eased, with a new life on the horizon.
Where is the cure for the ails of these frail humans? The Blue Coyote Motel.
What is the price for the cure? Check into the Blue Coyote Motel. Take a deep breath, and prepare for the stay of your life.
The majority of people we meet in real life are neither all good nor all bad. In Blue Coyote Motel, by Dianne Harman, she weaves the stories of an assortment of characters. With her gift of creativity and her imagination, she sends the reader through the gamut of human emotions.
As they deal with the challenges of life, the characters inadvertently find their troubles resolved. Addictions, such as food, smoking and sex, are easily overcome. Rage at a level needing anger management intervention simply dissipates. Worries about the normal human process of aging prevented. Grief to the brink of suicide eased, with a new life on the horizon.
Where is the cure for the ails of these frail humans? The Blue Coyote Motel.
What is the price for the cure? Check into the Blue Coyote Motel. Take a deep breath, and prepare for the stay of your life.
March 20, 2014
Blue Coyote Motel is a well-written, easy to read novel shedding light on many different facets of addiction. I loved how the author carefully introduced us to the cast of characters in the first half of the book by drawing us into their lives and then revealed how their lives intertwined in the second half. Very well done and I loved the suspense that led to the reveal. I pulled for each of the characters in their individual situations, battling their own demons in their own way. It brought to light the fact that each of us have some form of addiction in our lives and identifying the addiction is often something we are hesitant to do. I'm excited to see how the next chapter plays out in Coyote in Providence.
March 17, 2014
Get a good job. Find a rich man. These were the words of wisdom passed from mother to daughter.
Words of wisdom passed from my father to me: Get an education.
Study and learn all you can. Learn about history. Dad said, “As a great man by the name of Winston Churchill said, ‘Those who fail to learn from history are doomed to repeat it.’”
In “Blue Coyote Motel”, the characters reminded me of people I once knew. It would be great is there really was a feel good wonder drug.
I believe faith in God gives us the good feeling we all crave, but that is my personal opinion and my belief.
As for this novel, I can almost see the guests signing in at motel being greeted by a beautiful Maria. There is definitely something in the air.
I have a fondness for coyotes... We were known as coyotes at the small school I attended in Oklahoma. And, then I am a Native American Indian - so I had to check out this novel.
“Blue Coyote Motel” might not be everyone’s bag of tea, but I liked it and the originality. Plus, the author was astute enough to get Stephen King’s book, “On Writing”.
I also believe in order to be a good writer - you must be a good reader. And, Diane Harman is an avid reader.
Jeannie Walker (Award-Winning Author)
Words of wisdom passed from my father to me: Get an education.
Study and learn all you can. Learn about history. Dad said, “As a great man by the name of Winston Churchill said, ‘Those who fail to learn from history are doomed to repeat it.’”
In “Blue Coyote Motel”, the characters reminded me of people I once knew. It would be great is there really was a feel good wonder drug.
I believe faith in God gives us the good feeling we all crave, but that is my personal opinion and my belief.
As for this novel, I can almost see the guests signing in at motel being greeted by a beautiful Maria. There is definitely something in the air.
I have a fondness for coyotes... We were known as coyotes at the small school I attended in Oklahoma. And, then I am a Native American Indian - so I had to check out this novel.
“Blue Coyote Motel” might not be everyone’s bag of tea, but I liked it and the originality. Plus, the author was astute enough to get Stephen King’s book, “On Writing”.
I also believe in order to be a good writer - you must be a good reader. And, Diane Harman is an avid reader.
Jeannie Walker (Award-Winning Author)
April 22, 2013
This was a well written novel with smooth transitions and detailed descriptions. At times it has a very dark and ominous feeling to the writing, which sets the reader up for the conclusion. There are also many separate storylines in this story that run parallel to each other and finally intertwine at the ending, creating suspense and mystery that propels the reader forward. The story itself is very intriguing but it jumps from person to person to allow for these multiple story lines. This allows the author to further develop the mystery that brings them all together at the end, but there were a couple of times where I began to wonder where it was going. That said the fact that the events in this story are believable and even quite probably makes the story even scarier. You can actually imagine yourself in this situation with little effort.
The character development in this novel was phenomenal. There was a very large cast of characters, yet each and every one of them was equally well developed. The individualized characteristics of these people are all so real and combine in ways to create complete individuals who are stuck in circumstances beyond their control. Their actions and reactions are also in synch with the people that they are created to be within this novel. Harman spends a great deal of time and detail on this type of thing, which solidifies the characters and therefore the storyline itself in the reader’s mind’s eye.
The realism in this novel was just as terrifying as the story itself. It makes you think and it makes you worry. This novel also brings addiction to a whole new, and utterly terrifying level. It was a pleasure to read such an utterly unique and realistic novel.
Please note that I received this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review.
The character development in this novel was phenomenal. There was a very large cast of characters, yet each and every one of them was equally well developed. The individualized characteristics of these people are all so real and combine in ways to create complete individuals who are stuck in circumstances beyond their control. Their actions and reactions are also in synch with the people that they are created to be within this novel. Harman spends a great deal of time and detail on this type of thing, which solidifies the characters and therefore the storyline itself in the reader’s mind’s eye.
The realism in this novel was just as terrifying as the story itself. It makes you think and it makes you worry. This novel also brings addiction to a whole new, and utterly terrifying level. It was a pleasure to read such an utterly unique and realistic novel.
Please note that I received this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review.
December 10, 2013
If you had the ability to grant happiness to everyone, would you do it? Disgraced scientist Jeffrey Brooks believes he has created a cure for depression and uses his guests at the Blue Coyote Motel as human research subjects. The people to whom he administered his wonder-drug (named “Freedom”) leave the hotel feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready to change their lives for the better. Yet is this feeling and newfound motivation too good to last?
‘Blue Coyote Motel’ is a compelling story written in alternating chapters between Maria, Jeffrey, and the motel guests who were dosed with “Freedom” without their knowledge. My background in human research subject protections and my feelings on unregulated research aside, ‘Blue Coyote Motel’ was a fascinating study in the human condition. I loved all of the characters and I enjoyed how much I got to know them all in gritty detail. The author really makes you care about the characters and that’s one of the best things about this book along with the scientific aspects. It’s my understanding there will be a sequel, which is great news because I’d love to see how everyone is doing after the events in ‘Blue Coyote Motel’.
Series: Blue Coyote Motel (1)
‘Blue Coyote Motel’ is a compelling story written in alternating chapters between Maria, Jeffrey, and the motel guests who were dosed with “Freedom” without their knowledge. My background in human research subject protections and my feelings on unregulated research aside, ‘Blue Coyote Motel’ was a fascinating study in the human condition. I loved all of the characters and I enjoyed how much I got to know them all in gritty detail. The author really makes you care about the characters and that’s one of the best things about this book along with the scientific aspects. It’s my understanding there will be a sequel, which is great news because I’d love to see how everyone is doing after the events in ‘Blue Coyote Motel’.
Series: Blue Coyote Motel (1)
January 7, 2014
Blue Coyote Motel has an original premise and the plot delivers. An odd genius is working on an anti-aging drug and he meets a beautiful young woman who is terrified of getting older. A perfect match, right? He is determined to win a Nobel prize and ultimately save the world with his drugs, but reality intervenes, and they are forced to drastically change their lives. Still, his ambitions remain, and the story goes on from there.
I liked Maria and the parts of the story that where we learned of her awful childhood and desperation to escape the barrio, her beauty being the only available route. I wish I’d gotten to hear more about her in the middle of the story, how she was justifying what she needed against moral and practical dilemmas, but instead we drop back into her life at the very end of the book, which I won’t give away. Maybe we’ll get to know her better in the next book. The other characters were good, but there were so many (as needed in the plot) that I didn’t feel connected with most of them. I had one or two logical quibbles, but overall I enjoyed the story.
I liked Maria and the parts of the story that where we learned of her awful childhood and desperation to escape the barrio, her beauty being the only available route. I wish I’d gotten to hear more about her in the middle of the story, how she was justifying what she needed against moral and practical dilemmas, but instead we drop back into her life at the very end of the book, which I won’t give away. Maybe we’ll get to know her better in the next book. The other characters were good, but there were so many (as needed in the plot) that I didn’t feel connected with most of them. I had one or two logical quibbles, but overall I enjoyed the story.
March 4, 2013
A MUST READ
This is one of those books that will have you on the edge of your seat from the very beginning. It was very hard to put down.
The premise of a cure all drug that ends all the negative emotions in life including hatred and war is original, but no drug comes without side effects!
There are many characters in the book, all of which have some serious negative things going on in their lives until they inadvertently happen to stay at the remote Blue Coyote Motel at different times. Upon checking out the next day, their lives are totally transformed. Or are they?
Dianne Harman did a fantastic job of bringing the characters together into a story with its many twists and turns that will keep you reading until the end.
I’m not one to give the story away but if you like an original suspenseful mystery, then you’ll love this book as much as I did. The plot keeps you constantly guessing.
I’m looking forward to reading more from this author.
This is one of those books that will have you on the edge of your seat from the very beginning. It was very hard to put down.
The premise of a cure all drug that ends all the negative emotions in life including hatred and war is original, but no drug comes without side effects!
There are many characters in the book, all of which have some serious negative things going on in their lives until they inadvertently happen to stay at the remote Blue Coyote Motel at different times. Upon checking out the next day, their lives are totally transformed. Or are they?
Dianne Harman did a fantastic job of bringing the characters together into a story with its many twists and turns that will keep you reading until the end.
I’m not one to give the story away but if you like an original suspenseful mystery, then you’ll love this book as much as I did. The plot keeps you constantly guessing.
I’m looking forward to reading more from this author.
April 8, 2013
Blue Coyote Motel was an interesting read, and a book which is rather hard to categorize exactly.
I liked the way the author has built the story, using intertwining storylines and descriptive storytelling to make the book a compelling experience. Most of the characters are very distinguishable and well-written, although somewhat stereotypical.
As I normally read speculative fiction, I was surprised to see how much I wanted to get back to the book after putting it away. There are promises of a sequel, which will definitely go to my to-read-list.
I liked the way the author has built the story, using intertwining storylines and descriptive storytelling to make the book a compelling experience. Most of the characters are very distinguishable and well-written, although somewhat stereotypical.
As I normally read speculative fiction, I was surprised to see how much I wanted to get back to the book after putting it away. There are promises of a sequel, which will definitely go to my to-read-list.
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