May 23, 2008 - June 6, 2008
Last contest period's winners were Bobby T, Dave, Jeneen, Paula and Sue, who each received a copy of APPLES & ORANGES: My Brother and Me, Lost and Found by Marie Brenner, THE ART OF RACING IN THE RAIN by Garth Stein and ODD HOURS by Dean Koontz.
| Margarita Haury |
| A Fatal Grace by Louise Penny |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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All three books in this (I hope continuing) series are just great. If you like literary mysteries with lots of character development, this is the writer for you! The setting is a fictional village outside Quebec. |
| Readingrat |
| Ballet Shoes by Noel Streatfeild |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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A wonderful story told with a touch of quirky humor. Young ballet dancers and stage actors will find much that feels familiar here, but the themes of love, family, caring, and sacrifice combine to create a story that will still appeal to those who have never set foot on a stage before. |
| kerri |
| The Voice of Authority by Dianna Booher |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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This is about communication with others and how it determines your success. It also has everyday practical ideas that were easy. It's a good read if you enjoy self-help books. |
| Ruth |
| Pretending You Care: The Retail Employee Handbook by Norm Feuti |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
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After working in retail for almost 20 years, I can really relate to this author's observations. |
| Ruth |
| Nineteen Minutes by Jodi Picoult |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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Almost as good as MY SISTER'S KEEPER. Provided lots of discussion at my book club. |
| Trish Thomas |
| Dead Souls by Nikolai Gogol |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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A comedy of manners set in Russia, Gogol wrote the second half twice, and burned it twice, then became sick and died without turning it into the story of redemption that he originally intended. It gives a good picture of the landscape, peasantry, and landowners of Russia in about 1842. |
| Trish Thomas |
| Our Daily Meds by Melody Petersen |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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I would call this required reading for anybody in the medical field, if I thought anybody was listening to me. It's quite alarming --- the author is a writer for the New York Times, so very believable as well. She tells how drug companies hide study data that shows their drugs don't work, and how doctors are co-opted into prescribing by being hired as spokespeople and wined and dined by the companies. |
| Sandra Bray |
| The Other Boleyn Girl by Philippa Gregory |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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This novel, based upon historical fact, has it all... political intrigue, illicit relationships, societal norms, and much passion. You will love this book even if you are not a history buff, but especially if you are. It provides great insight into a period when you were defined by your pedigree. |
| Readingrat |
| The Hawkline Monster by Richard Brautigan |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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Bizarre, surreal, and throughly memorable. This is my first novel by Brautigan but will not be my last. |
| Alice ([email protected]) |
| P.S. I Love You by Cecelia Ahern |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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Holly has a perfect marriage to her soul mate, when he succumbs to cancer. After his death she must make the painful journey to live life again. Not my normal quick read, I absorbed each and every page and detail and enjoyed this story of love and friendship. |
| Gina |
| N is for Noose by Sue Grafton |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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I'm working my way through this series and have not been disappointed yet. In fact, these books just keep getting better! Such a strong female character in Kinsey Millhone. Love it... |
| Debbie ([email protected]) |
| Lost Light by Michael Connelly |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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A great story with Harry Bosch, and the ending where Harry learns he has a daughter and meets her. Some of the adventures with the FBI and police department venture towards apprehension of these departments. |
| Frannie |
| The Uses of Enchantment by Heidi Julavits |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
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Well, I finished this book because I wanted to see how it would end. I thought it started out strong, and the idea of the story intrigued me. It is the story of a young girl abducted at the age of 16, who mysteriously reappears without any memory of what occurred. The question opens regarding whether or not Mary was raped or not during this ordeal. Unfortunately, the writing style and characters became boring to me after the first few chapters and did not sustain my interest. |
| Readingrat |
| The Other Boleyn Girl by Philippa Gregory |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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This was an interesting perspective on the life of Anne Boleyn and a very entertaining read. |
| Andrea West |
| The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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Our book club really enjoyed this somewhat gothic novel. Interesting characters, twisting plot and surprise story lines. |
| Readingrat |
| The Frog Princess by E. D. Baker |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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A fun twist on the traditional "Princess kissing a frog" fairy tale. |
| Amy Ballard ([email protected]) |
| Body Surfing by Anita Shreve |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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This gripping story of a love triangle is part guilty pleasure, part literary genius. Shreve's characters are as human as you'll find in fiction, any time, any place. |
| Amy Ballard ([email protected]) |
| On the Edge of the Rift by Elspeth Huxley |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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A nonfiction glimpse of Kenya between the World Wars, this beautiful narrative will make you pause to savor the imagery on every page. Huxley writes with humor, humanity, relevance and eloquence about growing up as an English child in Africa. |
| T. Thomas |
| Shady Ladies by Suzann Ledbetter |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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A series of short biographies of 19 women who chose to live life the way they wanted when there were few options open to women. A good read. |
| Judy O. |
| A Little Love Story by Roland Merullo |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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This is the love story of Jake Entwhistle, an artist/carpenter, and Janet Rossi, an aide to the governor. Janet suffers from a debilitating disease, but Jake can't bear to lose her. So, he sets upon a mission to save her life. This is not a maudlin book, but instead, a very inspirational book about the power of a loving relationship. |
| Thomas |
| A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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I liked THE KITE RUNNER, but loved this book. A thousand splendid words would not be sufficient to describe this remarkable story of Mariam and Laila, growing into womanhood in war-torn Afghanistan. |
| Genie |
| The Camelot Caper by Elizabeth Peters |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
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THE CAMELOT CAPER is a fun, light, laugh-out-loud read. Written in the 1960s and somewhat dated, it is somewhat prim in the romance department. It's a good read for those who enjoy a little lighthearted fun. The main focus is a to give readers a different aspect of the mythology of King Arthur that many seem to take seriously. Young American Jessica Tregarth is summoned to England (a death bed request) by her grandfather, whom she has never met. On the way to Grandpa's, Jess must outrun two unsavory characters who follow her across England. Along the way she meets David Randall, a young writer of suspense novels, whose relationship begins with his helping Jess avoid the thugs and quickly develops into a romance. |
| A Burke |
| The Concrete Blond by Michael Connolly |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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An old Harry Bosch novel. Very good. |
| Sharon |
| The Sense of Paper by Taylor Holden |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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Amazing, beautifully written and wonderful novel that is heartfelt and sensitive. |
| Sandra |
| A Change of Heart by Jodi Picoult |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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Jodi does it again! Very interesting book about a man on death row who wants to donate his heart to a member of his victim's family. It is not as easy as it sounds. Lots of surprises. |
| Karen McKinstry O'Connor |
| Matrimony by Joshua Henkin |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
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This book was pretty good, all in all. The characters were worth investing my time in, and the twists kept me reading. |
| Dawnymae |
| Quicksand by Iris Johansen |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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As always, a real page turner with Eve Duncan being manipulated by her need to find her long-lost daughter Bonnie's bones. Very well done! |
| Paula Hess |
| Skeletons at the Feast by Chris Bohjalian |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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Once again, I have found a keeper from Mr. Bohjalian. This is World War II historical fiction at it's best. Finally, the end of the war is coming and this is the story of just a few of the many with a heart-wrenching story to tell. I was grabbed from the first few pages and was never let down from there. A strong story about the dehumanization of war and the resiliency of the human spirit. A must read. |
| Paula C. |
| Run by Ann Patchett |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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This book takes place within a 24-hour period. Patchett weaves several stories into one with suspense and emotion. The setting takes the reader from the Museum of Comparative Biology on Harvard's Campus to the Boston area. Patchett writes of a family having a sense of duty and responsibility to the community, but also underlying secrets. |
| Kay Keller |
| Family Inheritance by Deborah LeBlanc |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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A really good horror story set in Cajun country!! I'm not a horror fan, but this one is really good and I plan to read more books by this Louisiana author! |
| Kellie ([email protected]) |
| The Girls by Lori Lansens |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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I definitely have mixed feelings about this book. First of all, I found the idea ingenious. To write about conjoined twins who decide to write about their life is so interesting to me! Ruby and Rose are craniopagus conjoined twins that are born in Canada during a tornado. The mother doesn't want to keep them so a nurse from the hospital, Nurse Darlen aka Aunt Lovey, adopts them with her husband Stash. The author did an excellent job describing the twins thoughts, feelings and physical characteristics. They almost seem real to me. The setting was unique. I have not read many books that take place in Canada and I enjoyed this. The story line was compelling and kept my attention. The biggest disappointment was the ending. I was expecting more of a climax, a more dramatic ending. The ending was distinctive but I felt unsettled when I finally closed the book. I am really glad I read this and I do recommend, it just didn't end the way I expected it to. |
| Donna |
| The Stand by Stephen King |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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If you like Stephen King and his early books, you will definitely find this interesting. The world has suffered a horrible virus that killed most of the population. The ones who have survived are learning to start over. Not all of them can stop hearing the calling and messages from the Dark Man. They are drawn to the other side of the mountains, but what waits cannot be good. They cannot stop themselves. The others know he is near and fear what is to come... |
| Donna |
| Worst Fears Realized by Stuart Woods |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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I am a fan of Stuart Woods novels and this is another one that will keep you on edge 'til the last page. |
| Sue |
| God in the Wilderness by Rabbi Jamie S. Korngold |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
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I find traditional Judaism just fine, I don't reach spirituality in the wilderness (although I'm an outdoor lover with a great appreciation of the ocean) so I'm finding the book a little bit condescending. |
| Sue |
| Swim to Me by Betsy Carter |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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I could almost give this 5 stars, but I'm not sure the book is that great. However, I loved Weeki Wachee as a child, and I love it still as an adult. |
| Genie |
| Dime Store Magic by Kelley Armstrong |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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Paige Winterbourne inherited her mother's role as Leader of the American Coven of Witches. Although Paige is not anywhere near as experienced in witchcraft and lore as her deceased mother, she has a vision for the future. Known for her rebellious attitude, the elder coven witches believe Paige will never fit the profile as coven leader. Paige has a goal: to better her people and bring them into the 21st century, instead of hiding from the outside world. Paranoid Coven Elders insist this is the wrong path. On her own, Paige decides to find the hidden grimoires (filled with the ancient, stronger spells) and help all witches to regain their rightful power in the supernatural world. Seems the current-day witches are exclusively practicing "white magic," and have lost a great deal of power and status to Sorcerer Cabals (a kind of supernatural male dominated sorcerer Mafias) known to practice black magic for profit. Nine months ago, Paige's mother was murdered along with another witch who had a young daughter. Savannah Levine was left in Paige's care to train and to raise. Savannah has extremely strong powers for one so young and the potential to make magic way beyond what most witches can ever achieve. Paige's main responsibility is to make sure Savannah's power is used appropriately. Just before her coming-of-age ceremony, they discover a powerful sorcerer and heir to the Nash Cabal, Kristof Nashis, is Savannah's father. He suddenly decides that he wants custody of his daughter whom he has, until now, totally ignored. Nash has obviously recognized his daughter's potential for working with the black arts and has decided he wants to direct her talents. Paige will do anything in her power to prevent Kristof from influencing Savannah. Enter Lucas Cortez, a young sorcerer-attorney and heir to the powerful Cortex Cabal. Since witches and sorcerers have always been enemies, it takes a lot of effort for Cortez to convince Paige that he is on her side. What Paige soon discovers is that it will take their combined knowledge and skills to combat the opposition. |
| Mary |
| Obedience by Will Lavender |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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This is an intriguing thriller. I could not put it down> It's one of the best mystery / suspense books I have read in a long time. |
| Erin Oberdorfer ([email protected]) |
| The Book of Other People by Edited by Zadie Smith |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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Wonderful collection of characters. Each one different from the others, but all are intriguing. Terrific read. |
| Cynthia Stubbs ([email protected]) |
| Watership Down by Richard Adams |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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Not enough action, said my kids, but the descriptions of the English countryside were enchanting to me. Like a Disney movie, these are rabbits that talk, but not to humans. This is a classic, but I'd never heard of it. There is action at the end as Bigwig fights another rabbit and later defends his warren. This book is a heart warmer as much for adults as for kids. The main character is a rabbit with premonitions. Love, love, loved it. |
| Laura Ann Adams ([email protected]) |
| The Master Butcher's Singing Club by Louise Erdrich |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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Very interesting read. Lots of unique characters that you will think about for weeks after you finish reading it. |
| Ali |
| My Sister's Keeper by Jodi Picoult |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
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I guess a sign of a good book is the emotions evoked by the author. I certainly have strong feelings about this book, but not good ones. The author, in her usual way, writes about controversial subjects, but I can't like most of her characters. |
| Lori Barnes ([email protected]) |
| Good Man Hunting by Lisa Landolt |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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This book is awesome. I've had to put it down due to family needs, but I never forgot what was going on. There is a group of women who have a club that helps other women find good-looking, wealthy husbands. The women in this group pay a fee to play the game, and the names of the single woman go into hat and one is picked. They guarantee you will be married by 6 months to the one you've chosen, no matter how wealthy or good looking the man is. They take care of all of the preparations for the set up and meeting, how she looks, dresses, what she knows, etc. When she is married, in return, she has to give back a portion to the club from her husband's income for all the work and money that lead up to the marriage. You got to read this you will totally enjoy this read. |
| Lori Barnes ([email protected]) |
| To My Senses by Alexandrea Weis |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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This is a love story, but much more a story of love and finding yourself. I loved the characters and really felt like I knew them. If you're pondering your next book purchase, look no further. This is a definite must have read and keep book. |
| Sharon |
| Love in the Time of Cholera by Gabriel García Márquez |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
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I know that no one else will agree with me, but (in my opinion) this book does not live up to its hype. It is too long for the actual story --- the character with the most honor dies immediately and the so-called lovers believe that they are in love because of his longstanding obsession and her need for romance. |
| Shelly |
| The Butcher Of Beverly Hills by Jennifer Colt |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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A light, mystery series that's new to me. It's similar to Stephanie Plum, but instead is about red-headed twins who are not quite as accident prone. |
| Carol Grubbs ([email protected]) |
| And Sometimes Why by Rebecca Johnson |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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A motorcycle accident sets the stage for this novel. The people associated with the members of the accident all act, react and interact differently, depending on how they see themselves and each other in the present and the past. I could not put the book down. An excellent read. |
| Cynthia Baxter |
| Stealing Athena by Karen Essex |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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An epic about greed, intrigue and glory. This is a highly detailed story about the controversial Elgin Marbles. If you like to read historical fiction, this should be on your list! |
| Cynthia Stubbs ([email protected]) |
| Shopaholic and Sister by Spphie Kinsella |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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Wow, do you know what it is like when you can't afford something but simply must have it? So do I! This lady had to find out that some things, like sisters, are much more important. My identification with the character was so strong it was like I knew her well by the end of the book. Will warm your heart. |
| Cynthis Stubbs ([email protected]) |
| Someone To Love by Jude Deveraux |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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A good read. My favorite part is when a guy tells her no man would choose her. She tells him, "Don't be silly, women choose." I think she has got that right. Exciting ending. Deveraux has the magic that keeps on coming. |
| Cynthia Stubbs ([email protected]) |
| Duma Key by Stephen King |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
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I found this book slow, and the horror not so horrible as just sad. King is one of my favorites, however, and I read the whole thing. No big scares, though. |
| Cynthia Stubbs ([email protected]) |
| Naked Once More by Elizabeth Peters |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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This is my favorite by this author. She is a writer who remarks that books with the word naked in the title supposedly sell more copies and then puts the word in her own title, tongue in cheek I'm sure. I loved the character of Jacqueline and have high hopes she will drop the Peabody story and return to her. A great psychological puzzle in this one. |
| Cynthis Stubbs ([email protected]) |
| The Ruins by Scott Smith |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
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Gee, did this guy miss anything? Every horrible thing that can happen to a group of people seems to happen here. They don't seem to have any redeeming qualities at all. Still, I read the entire book to see what happened. Maybe I am not a true horror fan, but could not identify with any of the characters who die off one by one. |
| Kathy V. |
| Fashion Victim by Chloe Green |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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This latest installment in the Dallas O'Connor mystery series it takes up right where the last one left off, and Dallas is right in the middle of the thick of things. It's up to her to get everyone to believe that she saw a body, and of course, she is falling in love. So, now she has to decide if she joins the FBI or not. |
| Barbara Pollock |
| The Host by Stephenie Meyer |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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Wow! Stephanie Meyer does it again. As with her Twilight series, Stephanie hooks readers and reels them in with her latest. I read all night to finish. |
| Bonnie |
| I Love You, Beth Cooper by Larry Doyle |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
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Amusing novel of youth, but it's not as funny as it thinks it is. |
| Renee ([email protected]) |
| Homecoming by Bernhard Schlink |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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A complicated story about a post-World War II German son, seeking to fill in the gaps about an always-missing father. |
| Bobby T ([email protected]) |
| Gardens of Water by Alan Drew |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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Set in modern-day Turkey, this sensitive, moving book deals with struggles between teens and parents, between old customs and new, and between religions and ethnic groups. It is one of those books that doesn't take sides --- the author treats each side with respect and lets the story play out. For a first novel, it is a real keeper! |
| Bobby T ([email protected]) |
| The Republic of Suffering by Drew Gilpin Faust |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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This is like no other history book I've read before. Drew Gilpin Faust is a noted author, historian, and current President of Harvard; she writes a book so interesting that I picked it up and all but read it straight through. She approaches her subject as a social history, dealing with what society faced when, for the first time, they were involved in a war with suffering and deaths of such magnitude -- and how our government took note of their needs. She shows how procedures have been put in place to correct things, like not being able to identify dead on the battlefield, not having cemeteries to place them in, and especially ways to get the news of soldiers' deaths back to their families. Don't let the title of the book fool you --- it is not a book of blood and gore, but of identifying human problems and finding positive solutions. |
| Bobby T ([email protected]) |
| Home by Julie Andrews |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Every page of this book is interesting and engaging. She writes about the ordinary people in her life with as much care and class as she does with more famous. We here in America didn't know about her singing when she was a child, and we certainly didn't know about how she and her family were affected during the second world war. I'll certainly be waiting for her next installment! |
| Heather Johnson ([email protected]) |
| The Avengers by Rich Cohen |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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So far, this is a fascinating look. It tells the story of 3 real-life heroes --- young Jews living in Poland during World War II, who fought back against the Germans in every way they could. |
| Terri ([email protected]) |
| The Wednesday Sisters by Meg Waite Clayton |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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A different kind of book about "girlfriends." The characters are a lot more normal than they usually are in this genre. Covering a fairly short time span over the late 60s and early 70s, they relate their lives through their meeting, their writing, their reading, and the changes going on in the world at that time. |
| Laurie |
| The Friday Night Knitting Club by Kate Jacobs |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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As an avid knitter who was taught the craft by some friends a few years ago, THE FRIDAY NIGHT KNITTING CLUB touched a note close to home. It made me want to start a new project and form a knitting club. Kate Jacobs illustrated how knitting is not a solitary project, but a skill that is entwined in relationships with those you care about. Bravo. |
| Metalfiend11 in Rocksprings, TX ([email protected]) |
| Pomegranate Soup by Marsha Mehran |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This was recommended by the Celestial Seasonings book club. A story of three sisters who flee Tehran and open a cafe in Ireland. It includes several Persian recipes that are mentioned it the book. For me, this was a good, but not a great book. I will consider reading the sequel that is scheduled to be released in May 2008. |
| Kathleen |
| The Secret Portrait by Lillian Stewart Carl |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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An intriguing and fun-to-read mystery. It also has some interesting historical facts about Scotland in it, too. |
| Debi |
| The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time by Mark Haddon |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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I'm sorry I waited so long to read this! It is master storytelling! A young, autistic boy comes of age when he discovers that everything is not black and white. The point of view is what makes this unique. I even learned a few things! Great! |
| Debbie |
| Wolf at the Table by Augusten Burroughs |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
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This memoir was pretty good, though not quite up there with my favorite (so far), DRY. Some parts at the end were repetitive if you have read Burroughs's earlier books. Nevertheless, it was a very interesting read. |
| Bonnie |
| Child 44 by Tom Rob Smith |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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Very good mystery with a touch of BRAVE NEW WORLD for good measure. |
| Jeneen ([email protected]) |
| The Art of Racing In The Rain by Garth Stein |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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I kept hearing such rave reviews of this book from Bookreporter, so I bought it the day it came out. It was wonderful. Enzo is now one of my favorite literary characters. Anyone (which is everyone who read it) who enjoyed MARLEY & ME will love this. |
| M. Blitz |
| Odd Hours by Dean Koontz |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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The story of Odd continues in one of the best series I have ever read. |
| Debbie |
| Thursday Next: First Among Sequels by Jasper Fforde |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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This series is absolutely wonderful and I am eagerly awaiting the next book, next summer. If you like clever writing, terrific characters, and involved plots, this is the author for you! |
| Joan |
| Rough Justice by Lisa Scottoline |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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Criminal lawyer Marta Richter is about to win an acquittal for her client on trial for murder. She soon learns the chilling truth about his innocence and she takes justice into her own hands. Full of suspense and intrigue. |
| Bonnie |
| Go with Me by Castle Freeman Jr. |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
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Short, spare book, with lots of dialogue. I'm not sure I "got it", because it got rave reviews and I'm not sure why. |
| Laura ([email protected]) |
| The Senator's Wife by Sue Miller |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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Does one forgive infidelity for the sake of family? Can one close her eyes and still have self-esteem and a fulfilling life? And can tragedy change a person's moral barometer? There are so many questions and Sue Miller seems to answer all of them while asking the reader to search within themselves.... I read this book in one sitting because I couldn't put it down and contemplated my own life and judgments and beliefs along the way. It's a treasure. |
| Tina |
| Attack of the Theater People by Marc Acito |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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This book was so much fun!! It's a follow up to his first book, HOW I PAID FOR COLLEGE. It's a book you don't want to put down!! |
| AnneM |
| The Other Boleyn Girl by Philippa Gregory |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I just came across this while browsing at the library. I really like English history of this period, so I thought I would give it a try. What a great book! It really brings the characters to life! You can almost see the sights, colours and people who populate this book. You can look into their minds to see what it was like and what it meant to be a courtier. I would recommend this book highly to anyone who asked about it! |
| Fran |
| We Are All Fine Here by Mary Guterson |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
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A surprise pregnancy, a failing 15-year marriage, infidelity and a paternity question. Overall, it was a cute story and quick read. |
| Cheryl Zeiszler |
| Those Who Save Us by Jenna Baum |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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Disturbing and enchanting, this book shows the pass of time (and goes back and forth between World War II in Germany and present-day Minnesota. We have many epics of this period, but this is told from the perspective of a young German woman of privilege and the life she led before and after the war. Her daughter is a history professor and takes on the project of Germans In WWII. It is such a contradiction as a reader; you want to read, and yet, what is described is incredulous. |
| Cheryl |
| Peony In Love by Lisa See |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
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I did not enjoy the way the book was written --- following Peony through her life and then through her afterlife. I also got nightmares from some of the images in the book. |
| Julie |
| Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follet |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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Although this book is almost a thousand pages, I found myself at the end before I knew it. I can't wait to read WORLD WITHOUT END. |
| L. Hann |
| The Husband by Dean Koontz |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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Excellent. This book had me gripped from the first page. I would have never expected all the twists and turns. |
| Karen Terry ([email protected]) |
| Dead Time by Stephen White |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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Stephen White has done it again. DEAD TIME is a great novel and main character Dr. Alan Gregory finds out some truths about his ex-wife and current wife that will shake his marriage to the core. It is a great read. |
| D. Lohrding |
| The Woods by Harlan Coben |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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This is the first book I've read by this author. I was introduced to him by the many positive reviews of his latest book. This book is great --- fast moving with multiple levels of "mystery". I can't wait to get my hands on his new novel! |
| Phyllis |
| Urban Shaman by C. E. Murphy |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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On returning from Ireland, Joanne Walker discovers she is a shaman; she's not happy at all. Then, she finds that she has 3 days to save the world from The Hunt. She's really not happy! A fast-paced action book. |
| Gale in Houston |
| The Dark Tide by Andrew Gross |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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THE DARK TIDE opens with a bang --- literally, a major explosion --- and doesn't let up. Before breaking off on his own, Gross co-wrote several novels with best-selling author James Patterson (LIFEGUARD, JUDGE & JURY, THE JESTER). His solo books are better. Like 2007's THE BLUE ZONE, this one convincingly combines suspense and action with great characters. It's a winner. |
| Jana Harver ([email protected]) |
| Sky Burial by Xinran Xue |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Based on a true story of a Chinese Doctor, the novel begins in 1958 when Shu Wen joins the military in search for her husband who has been declared dead in Tibet. She spends the next 20 years looking for him. It is a story of true love and is well worth the read. I will not soon forget it. |
| Mary Sue Russell |
| Angel by Carla Neggers |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Her books are always excellent reads. This one was hard to lay down --- so I read it in 2 sessions. It's full of complex relationships, exciting mystery, and romance. All in all, a very good book. |
| Susan Dawson |
| What Now? by Anne Patchett |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I bought a second copy of WHAT NOW? as I had been so impressed by this short book (96 pages) when I first read it. In an expansion of her commencement address to the members of the Sarah Lawrence College graduating class just twenty years after she had been a student there, every graduating senior should be given a copy if he hasn't been wise enough to purchase his own. |
| Lois M. |
| People of the Book by Geraldine Brooks |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
The way the author traces the history and ownership of the haggadah over the years is fascinating. However, I found the way she throws foreign phrases and words around with no definition to be annoying. Certain words cannot be found in foreign dictionaries. I almost feel as if she is trying to show the reader up with her inside knowledge. A little more explanation and clarity would have made this a 5-star book. |
| Jessie |
| The Shack by William P. Young |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
I must say, there's something quite odd about this book; I keep thinking I should read something else, but there's something very compelling forcing me to keep reading. I'm not done yet, but at this point, three stars is all I can muster. |
| Suzanne |
| Fidelity by Thomas Perry |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A good read that kept me flipping through the pages as fast as I could. With real people as characters, I enjoyed it. |
| Suzanne |
| Skeletons at the Feast by Chris Bohjalian |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I was so immersed in this book that when I came up for air, I had to look around to see where I was. Very impressive. I had brothers in World War II, but was very young at the time. This was gut wrenching, but a story that had to be told. |
| Rita Carter ([email protected]) |
| The Killing Ground by Jack Higgins |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I'm in love with Sean Dillon so I read all of those books by Jack Higgins. This is another books about the Rashids and their mission to wipe out Dillon, and gang. A good read, but I felt that the ending was a bit weak. |
| Ricki Marking-Camuto ([email protected]) |
| Damage Control by J. A. Jance |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
This would have been a better suspense novel if plot from the prologue made it into the main story sometime before the last 10th of the novel. |
| Ricki ([email protected]) |
| Mason by Thomas Pendleton |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A good, unique teen horror novel with a ton of art technique references. |
| Sally Lincoln |
| THE POSTCARD and CROSSROADS by Beverley Lewis |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
These are actually two books in one binding. They can stand alone, but it was great to read the next installment right after the first, as you always want to know what happens next. A well-written tale set in Amish country that tells of the simple, yet very structured life expected of these young women. A lot of religious beliefs I was unaware of. I would certainly read more from Beverley Lewis. |
| Carmelita Peters ([email protected]) |
| A Prayer for Owen Meany by John Irving |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is not a new book, but better by far than THE WORLD ACCORDING TO GARP, in my estimation. Of course, I am very partial to anything by Irving. This book is spiritual, spellbinding, and worth re-reading. The life of a young boy, with deficits, is examined in detail. How he changes the world through a sense of purpose and unflagging effort has redeeming value. I have read this book often and get new insights each time. |
| Loretta Sanford ([email protected]) |
| The Girl With No Shadow by Joanne Harris |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
What an experience to read a book you love! It is a follow up to CHOCOLAT, another outstanding read. Every page is a small literary jewel. You want to read it quickly to find out the outcome, but yet you want to reread every page. The characters, chocolates, life in a Paris neighborhood, secrets, romance, and some witchcraft all make up a fabulous story. |
| Teri Meairs |
| Guilty by Karen Robards |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I am just getting into it, but I have not been able to put it down. It's the perfect summer read! |
| Sue Pecaut Stark ([email protected]) |
| The Blue Zone by Andrew Gross |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
THE BLUE ZONE is absolutely gripping and thrilling! Put your life on hold until you finish it! I practically tore through this thriller, and have been passing it around to my friends; so far, everyone has given it five stars! The perfect family, with the perfect life, and a father they are all "proud as punch" of, comes home one day to face impossible questions, and the departure from the life they know best. There are twists and turns in this story, right up to the end of the book. Wow! This book is a rare pleasure. An amazing read! |
| Janice Hoaglin ([email protected]) |
| Murder Gets A Life by Anne George |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I love this Southern Sisters mystery series; this is the fifth one I have read. The relationship between the sisters, as well as all their extended family, is fun and heartwarming, especially in this age when families often live so far apart and have little time for each other. Some might call them "enmeshed", but I think they are great!!! |
| Janeene |
| The English American by Alison Larkin |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Entertaining story of a woman, who was adopted as an infant, and her journey to find her real self. Yet, once she meets her birth parents, they may not be the people she expects. Larkin writes with humor and truthful feelings about the subject. As an adoption professional, I enjoyed the book. |
| Jon Weiman ([email protected]) |
| Eat the Document by Dana Spiotta |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Very well-written novel. Great descriptions of people, emotion, communication, and psyche. The only thing that I didn't like was the structure of having every chapter be about a different person. I found it somewhat annoying. Overall great read, though. |
| Jon W. |
| Losing It by Valerie Bertinelli |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
Although it was interesting to read about her life, I found that as with most celebrity autobiographies, Valerie Bertinelli seems utterly self-obsessed and vapid. She has seemingly had a charmed life in many ways and is and has always been consumed by a set of neuroses that could have been addressed but wasn't. |
| Judy O. |
| Charley's Web by Joy Fielding |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Charley Webb writes a column for a Florida newspaper, and one day she receives an e-mail that threatens her and her two small children. Days later, she gets a letter from Jill Rohmer, a convicted child murderer, asking Charley to do a true crime book about the killer's life. Are the two letters connected? Soon, Jim finds herself in a true-life nightmare. Fielding writes these psychological thrillers, with all their twists and turns, better than most other authors. |
| Lucy |
| Hold Tight by Harlan Coben |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Coben is great at creating a maze of false clues and twisty plots. The story was mesmerizing, but I thought he created a few too many characters for clarity's sake. |
| Lucy |
| The Girl Who Stopped Swimming by Joshilyn Jackson |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Lauren and her sister Thalia were so well developed, I was wishing for more and more about them. This author is new to me, but I will look for more by her. |
| Lucy |
| The Darkest Evening of the Year by Dean Koontz |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
I was looking forward to the story of a golden retriever rescuer and her adventures. Instead, I got very little about them, and instead a lot of creepy New Age horror. |
| Diana Sullivan |
| Heart-Shaped Box by Joe Hill |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I saw this on Bookreporter and gave it a try. It's a great, great story by Stephen King's son that is fast paced and trilling. I could not put it down. |
| GladysMP |
| The Hot Flash Club Chills Out by Nancy Thayer |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
The author has the most remarkable talent for making her characters seem like real, everyday individuals. The descriptions of Nantucket make me eager to visit the Island. I'd give the book more stars except that, with five heroines, I at first found it hard to keep their actions straight. That became easier as I read farther. The author is an extremely talented writer. |
| Eileen Quinn Knight ([email protected]) |
| Certain Girls by Jennifer Weiner |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This book has great dialogue! The author has humorous repartee with the characters. It is witty and filled with tenderness about the human condition. The author has great observations about what goes on in modern life. |
| Barbara Dormer ([email protected]) |
| I Am Madame X by Gioia Nilberto |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A good historical fiction novel. There are cover plates of other art work of the heroine. |
| Anita Yancey |
| The Witness by Dee Henderson |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is a romantic story, with a touch of suspense. The story starts with Amanda running for her life after witnessing a crime. She stays on the run for most of the book, but is finally able to come home with the help of Police Chief Luke Granger, whom she falls in love with. Luke and his men do everything to keep Amanda and her sisters alive, but events happen that they could not have foreseen. A good book that I would definitely recommend. |
| Jeff |
| The Fortune Cookie Chronicles by Jennifer 8. Lee |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
After dozens won the lottery in 2005 by using numbers on a fortune cookie, Lee travels to understand Chinese restaurants --- their food (both Americanized and typical Chinese); the immigrants to this country. A quick and fun read. |
| Jeff |
| Mulberry Park by Judy Duarte |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
MULBERRY PARK is about a mother whose son dies. She gets divorced, but reaches out to a young girl who lost her parents and is writing letters to God in a park. This story shows how this reaching out changed her life. |
| Carol H. |
| Practically Perfect by Katie Fforde |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Anna is so interested in her old love, while a new, truer love is right in front of her. All this and remodeling a house! |
| sogamonk |
| Heart-Shaped Box by Joe Hill |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A horror story about a haunting in today's computer age. |
| Karen Barash |
| The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyle |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is a gem of a book. It is a powerful story that most people will read in one sitting. |
| Melbe |
| Sun Going Down by Jack Todd |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Fast-paced multi generational story of the old west. I could not put it down. |
| J. Kaye Oldner ([email protected]) |
| Book in a Month by Victoria Lynn Schmidt Ph.D. |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
The book, subtitled The Fool-proof System for Writing A Novel in 30 Days, combines psychology with the mechanics of how to organize a novel from start to finish. This is by far the best on the market I've seen. |
| Alice MacDonald |
| A Gathering of Finches by Jane Kirkpatrick |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This historical fiction novel made for a lively book group discussion. The two main characters will drive you crazy (and prove that money can't buy happiness), but learning about Oregon in the early 1900s is fascinating. It also makes you want to visit Shore Acres State Park to view the beautiful gardens that were planted by the original Simpson family. |
| Lynn ([email protected]) |
| Pardonable Lies by Jacqueline Winspear |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Just found this author when someone left the book on by door. It's such a great read. Very entertaining, nicely plotted and good character development. Afterwards, I just had to order the other two books. She has only written three. |
| Pamela Priebe |
| Cry Wolf by Tami Hoag |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This was released in 1996 and is an oldie but goodie. I thought it had a good beginning and end, but the middle was slow. Read the Cajun glossary in the back, It helps. |
| J. Kaye Oldner ([email protected]) |
| Life As We Knew It by Susan Beth Pfeffer |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
If you aren't a YA reader, don't be quick to turn your back on this one. Every now and then, an author comes along who can entertain the old as well as the young. Pfeffer accomplished just that with LIFE AS WE KNEW IT. |
| Judith George ([email protected]) |
| The Watering of Stones by Whalen Colter Elmore |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A beautiful historical novel set in the Panama Canal and Jackson, WY, about the loves and lives of 4 generations of Stones. It is both harsh and haunting in it's beauty and so well written it reads like poetry. |
| Alice ([email protected]) |
| The Seasons of Beento Blackbird by Akosua Busia |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Great fictional tale of one man's quest to find his own wholeness by loving different women during the changing seasons of his life. I enjoyed this so much! |
| Ann Mellish |
| The Inheritance of Loss by Kiran Desai |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
Very hard book to get into --- the writing feels rather disjointed to me, but this book has gotten excellent reviews from critics, so I continue to plow through it. |
| Ann Mellish |
| The Good Earth by Pearl Buck |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Very enjoyable read. |
| Ann Mellish |
| The Things They Carried by Tim O'Brien |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I love O'Brien's writing style. This was a very moving and touching book. |
| Readingrat |
| The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This humorous YA magical adventure story has a fun combination of Greek Mythology and Pop Culture. |
| Kay Keller |
| Bulls Island by Dorothea Benton Frank |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I enjoy all of the "Low Country" novels by this author, but this one is definitely a new favorite. The characters were strong, interesting, and believable; the story jumped back and forth between characters and it worked! Even though I guessed how the novel would end, I thoroughly enjoyed it! |
| Alice ([email protected]) |
| No Second Chance by Harlan Coben |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Another great ride by Harlan Coben, this story begins with a man who wakes up in a hospital to discover his wife has been murdered and their daughter kidnapped. He has only one chance to respond to the forthcoming ransom note and save his daughter. This book keeps you guessing until the very end! |
| Alice ([email protected]) |
| After Tupac and D Foster by Jacqueline Woodson |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Wonderful coming-of-age story about 3 girls who experience friendship and family issues during the backdrop of Tupac Shakur and his upcoming demise. Great story! |
| Alice ([email protected]) |
| My Sister's Keeper by Jodi Picoult |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Mesmerizing story of a family who struggles with the ethical issues of trying to keep one daughter alive at the cost of another. This book was even better the 2nd time I read it. Run and get a copy! |
| D. Lohrding |
| Holloywood Crows by Joseph Wambaugh |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Wambaugh's book continues to surprise me --- lots of sick/dark (funny!) humor and sly mentions to previous characters and events...very good! It's as good, if not better than HOLLYWOOD STATION. His characters are so likable! |
| Dave Dornbush |
| An Image of Death by Libby Fischer Hellman |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This was a gripping mystery right to the end. I had not read any of Ms. Hellman's previous books and was quite delighted. I want to go back and read her previous books now. The character of Ellie Foreman is reminiscent to me of Stephanie Plum, only Foreman is divorced with a teenage daughter. I like characters in mysteries with unusual occupations other than the standard P.I., Detective, or Spy. Hellman's character, much like herself in real life, makes video documentaries. In this particular book, Ellie Foreman receives a mysterious video left at her door. The video looks to be a surveillance tape, but after viewing it she realizes that what she has witnessed is obviously a murder of a young woman. From there, things unfold and the story is dually told from Foreman's narrative and then the narrative of the young Russian Woman who has been murdered. All lead up to a slam ending. |
| Dave Dornbush |
| Capote In Kansas by Kim Powers |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This book is very interesting and well written. I love how Mr. Powers brilliantly wrote the real-life people (Truman Capote, Harper Lee, and Truman's maid Myrtle Bennett) into a more or less fictional account of Capote's last days. The odd relationship between Harper Lee and Truman Capote was an excellent premise for a book. If one is a fan of TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD or IN COLD BLOOD, they will definitely want to read this book. |
| Linda M. Johnson ([email protected]) |
| Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I read this shortly after it was published, so this is my second time around. Starting it this time, I recalled my surprise at the ending. Now, looking at it again, how did I miss the foreshadowing? It's as exciting the second time. |
| Linda M. Johnson ([email protected]) |
| Dream Lucky by Roxanne Orgill |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
An interesting book written in journal format, picking high and low lights in the year between the two Joe Louis and Max Schmelling fights. The main theme is Count Basie's rise to his title and the acclaim of the audiences. I never thought about the Count having to make it. He just always was in my life time. Segregation ruled during this period. Billie Holiday was forced to apply darker makeup so no one would think a white woman was playing with a colored band. Also, the book brings in other notables such as Amelia Earhart, Glenn Miller, and Ella Fitzgerald. |
| Marleen Davis |
| The Quickie by James Patterson |
| Rating: 1 Stars |
|
Two Words: Stu-pid |
| Readingrat |
| TTYL by Lauren Myracle |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A story of the trials and tribulations of high school told through a series of IM sessions that take place between the 3 main characters during the first few months of their sophomore year. The characters, the emotions, the friendship, and support ring true and keep the pages turning. |
| Venessa |
| Queen of Babble by Meg Cabot |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
If you like chick lit, you'll love QUEEN OF BABBLE. It's easy to read, and there are funny and lovable characters. I'm anxious to start QUEEN OF BABBLE IN THE BIG CITY! |
| Louise |
| Die Trying by Lee Child |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is the second Lee Child book I have read this week, and I didn't enjoy it as much as TRIP WIRE. It was too long and moved too slowly. Otherwise, it was a good read and I will continue with this author. In this one, Reacher just happens to be in the wrong place at the wrong time and almost loses his life because of it (several times). In fact, he came so close that I had to keep reminding myself that there are other Jack Reacher books that came after this one :) |
| Julie ([email protected]) |
| Little Earthquakes by Jennifer Weiner |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This follows four very different women as they navigate one of life's most wonderful and perilous transitions: the journey of new motherhood. Becky is a plump, sexy chef who has a wonderful husband and baby girl --- and the mother-in-law from hell. Kelly is an event planner struggling with work and motherhood while dealing with an unemployed husband who seems content to channel-surf for 8 hours a day. And Ayinde's basketball superstar husband breaks her trust at her most vulnerable moment. And then there's Lia, who has left her Hollywood career behind, along with her husband and a tragic secret, to start her life all over again. What a fantastic book! |
| Judy O. ([email protected]) |
| Skeletons at the Feast by Chris Bohjalian |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
For me, this was a very special book. It took place in Germany during the waning days of World War II. The Germans are fleeing from the invading Soviets when the fall of The Third Reich is near. This story tells about the Emmerich family on this flight, along with a Scottish POW, and a Jewish man who has escaped from a deportation train. Fascinating story. |
| Louise |
| She's Come Undone by Wally Lamb |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Wasn't sure how to rate this one. It was touted as an Oprah selection, as well as having won several impressive awards, and sometimes I liked it, sometimes I just didn't. The "undone heroine" is not a nice person and deliberately tries to make life miserable for those around her, even when they're trying to help her. Parts of her personal life were too personal and may gross someone out with any kind of sensitivities or morals. Probably, my biggest criticism is that it was too long --- not just because it was 465 pages of fine print, but because the story dragged at times. |
| T. Thomas |
| Luncheon of the Boating Party by Susan Vreeland |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
I was very anxious to read this, but did not enjoy it the way I thought I would. |
| Louise |
| The Lincoln Lawyer by Michael Connelly |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I really enjoyed this book! What prompted me to read it is that, for some reason, I thought it was going to be about Abraham Lincoln. Well, he was a lawyer :) The title is derived from the fact that the lawyer's only office is in one or more of the Lincoln Town Cars that he collects. We usually see stories, based on the defense of the good guys, the prosecutors' sides, but this lawyer defends the bad guys. It was interesting, and once in a while a little sickening, to see what methods he employs to manipulate the system, the jurors, witnesses, etc. |
| WendyB. |
| The Nature of Monsters by Clare Clark |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Unlike most of the world, I did not enjoy this book. I found the characters lacking in depth and subtlety. The heroine was particularly unsympathetic. I give it three stars because it is undeniably well researched; however, overall, I was extremely disappointed. |
| Laurel Doud ([email protected]) |
| Captivity by Debbie Lee Wesselmann |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I was captivated by this book from the very beginning and I was sorry it ended. It melds a love story, the bad/evil man/scientist and the truly fascinating communication between human and chimp. It's a fast read; you want to turn the page. It makes you cringe, makes you cry, makes you smile. What more can you ask for in a book? |
| Fran |
| Hush by Mark Nykanen |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
A spine-chilling, psychological thriller that kept me up all night to finish! |
| Crystal Blackburn |
| Compulsion: An Alex Delaware Novel by Jonathan Kellerman |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Another thrilling turn for psychologist Dr. Alex Delaware and LAPD Det. Lt. Milo Sturgis! |
| Crystal Blackburn |
| The Killing Ground by Jack Higgins |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
More adventure and intrigue from Sean Dillon and his comrads-in-arms. More Rashids! |
| Christy H. |
| A Slip To Die For by William Maltese |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Once I started reading this unique and interesting detective novel, I couldn't put it down and read it all in one sitting. Mr. Maltese has written a fast-paced mystery filled with surprises. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in this series. |
| Janet |
| Now You See Him by Eli Gottlieb |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This was a new author for me and it was a wonderful book! I look forward to his next one. I do not think he is a prolific writer so I may have to wait. I attended a panel discussion at the LA Festival of Books and discovered a number of new authors. |
| Kellie ([email protected]) |
| The True Story of Hansel and Gretel by Louise Murphy |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This story was amazing. The author was ingenious, taking this fable and using it to tell the story of two children who have to fend for themselves during the Holocaust in Poland. I was intrigued with the setting of this novel since I am part Polish. The author chose The Bialowieza Forest for the setting of this story after seeing a television program about it. Reading about this makes me want to research it myself. Ms. Murphy also wrote a very detailed and disturbing description of the horrors of World War II and the murder of the Jews in gas chambers. This made the story almost like it really happened. This was an unforgettable story, one I highly recommend!! |
| Bonnie |
| I Love You, Beth Cooper by Larry Doyle |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This maybe is not laugh-out-loud funny, but definitely chuckle-out-loud amusing. |
| N. Sloan |
| Megiddo's Shadow by Arthur Slade |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Fueled by the death of his brother in World War One, a sixteen-year-old Saskatchewan farm boy leaves his life behind, joining the British Cavalry to fight the Turks in Palestine. Once there, his thirst for revenge for the brother he lost is overshadowed by the realization that he must not only fight to kill, but also to survive. Slade has told a compelling tale of the horrors of war, seen through the eyes of a young teenage boy. It's one of the best novels I have read, written by one of Canada's best young authors. |
| Judy O. |
| The Miracle at Speedy Motors by Alexander McCall Smith |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is another installment in the NO. 1 LADIES' DETECTIVE AGENCY series. It is a delightful story about Precious Ramotswe, her husband J.L.B. Matekoni, and her assistant Grace Makutsi. The setting of the story is Botswana, in Africa. Mma Ramotswe is investigating her latest case, which is a woman who is looking for her family. Very enjoyable books. |
| Readingrat |
| The Bad Place by Dean Koontz |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A suspenseful page-turner that sucks you in from the start. I enjoyed the many memorable characters in this book and the inevitable tension that develops when these characters interact. This novel is a satisfying departure from the traditional Koontz read (for the most part). |
| Louise |
| Tell Me Your Dreams by Sidney Sheldon |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Bizarre plot that I hesitate to describe, for fear of giving something away. A lot of time and distance with a few twists and turns before you get to the end. I think you will enjoy it. |
| Louise |
| Close to You by Christina Dodd |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
The last installment in this series about the Prescott children was, by far, my favorite. The children were orphaned many years ago by the "accidental death" of their parents, who were ---- apparently --- absconding with church funds. Their kids never believed that, and I don't believe the readers did, either. It is all wrapped up in this story of the youngest child who was only a baby at the time the family was separated. A great romance/suspense. |
| Louise |
| The Good Wife by Clint Richmond |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
A true story of the murder of a good wife in Austin, Texas. My husband (who is a writer) and I have been reading it in bed and we both feel that it's way too long. There is a lot of extraneous material that just seems like filler, and doesn't have much to do with the story. We met in Austin, so we enjoy reading about familiar places and life in the capitol city in general, but there are a lot of other things mentioned about which we keep saying to each other, "What does that have to do with anything?" I'd like to see Ann Rule do this story. Maybe she has; I haven't read all of her books yet. |
| Louise |
| Trip Wire by Lee Child |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Someone donated this to my library, and just because I had never read Lee Child, I picked it up and took it home. Wow, now I've got to read the rest of hisJack Reacher series. Towards the end, I could not put it down, carried it around with me every place I went. I like the way he has several intertwining stories (that all come together at the end) and switches back and forth among them. It is a little bloody and gory, but aren't all good suspense novels? |
| Richard Bartels |
| Tourist Season by Carl Hiaasen |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
My wife really likes Hiaasen, so I gave him a try. This was his first novel and I can see his talent, although it doesn't quite capture me. Still, it was a fun read and I'll try another book by him. |
| Kimberley Coover |
| Iron Kissed by Patricia Briggs |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
The latest Mercy Thompson novel is excellent. She has blended the human world with Fae, werewolves, vampires and skinwalkers into successful series that draws the reader in, making fans and addicts of everyone who has read her stories. |
| Richard Bartels |
| The Golden Orange by Joseph Wambaugh |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
I hadn't read a Wambaugh novel in quite some time, but I always enjoyed his work, so I took this one along on vacation. I was disappointed. This just didn't meet my expectations --- although I did like the way he ended it. It's not his finest work. |
| Wendy Catalano |
| A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A novel by the author of THE KITE RUNNER. This novel brought out more of my emotions than any novel before. It is the story of 2 women from Afghanistan and the horrors they deal with on a daily basis. |
| F Tessa Bartels |
| As We Are Now by May Sarton |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A finely crafted novella about aging and the indignity of being "stored" in a nursing home. Written in 1973, one cannot help but wonder how much things have actually changed. I love Caro's spirit, but am left somewhat unsettled by this book. |
| F Tessa Bartels |
| Solomon vs. Lord by Paul Levine |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Absolutely charming and fun. Great vacation read! |
| Kimberley Coover |
| Hidden by Eve Kenin |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Riviting romance with a futuristic twist. Even though the heroine is genetically enhanced, she is more humane and caring than the "humans." The twists and turns keep the reader entranced. |
| Kimberley Coover |
| Hot by Julia Harper |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Just a plain, enjoyable read. Romance, mystery and comedy are all rolled into one. The bank robbers in this story will have you howling in laughter. |
| Kimberley Coover |
| Shadow Magic by Cheyenne McCray |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
What a wonderful addition to the Magic series. This fourth book is just as good as the first. This new world that Cheyenne has created is addictive. The story flows to where you can't put it down. At the end, you are already looking for the next book. I would recommend this book (and series!) to anyone who loves paranormal romances. |
| Marsha |
| Indigo Man by Robert Crais |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is an Elvis Cole novel. Elvis, along with his sidekick, Joe Pike, get involved with a trio of children who are looking for their father. Soon the Russian Mafia, the U. S. Federal Marshals and the Vietnamese underground are all looking for this master counterfeiter. In the middle of all this, Elvis' girlfriend's ex-husband threatens him. All this makes for a merry wild chase. Good fun. |
| Kimberley Coover |
| Because Your Vampire Said So by Michele Bardsley |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This third offering of the Broken Heart, Oklahoma series is just as funny as the first. If you love romance, laughing and the paranormal..this is the book for you. I laughed 'til my sides hurt, then laughed so more. A fun, engaging read |
| Catie 75 |
| Purple Cane Road by James Lee Burke |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Love the Dave Robicheaux series! |
| Catie 75 |
| A Second Legacy by Joanna Trollope as Caroline Harvey |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
Good character development, but the story drags and is too predictable. |
| Debbie ([email protected]) |
| City of Bones by Michael Connolly |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A Harry Bosch mystery set in LA, about a set of bones at least 20 years old from a 12-year-old boy. Two more deaths are added to the toll in the quest for justice and truth. |
| CJ Jones ([email protected]) |
| Bridge of Sighs by Richard Russo |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Richard Russo again hits the jackpot with a compelling story about small-time life in the Northeast. By the end of the book, you feel that the characters are old friends and the town a familiar place. Not without some twists and turns, this is a solidly written book that I put in the same category as his Pulitzer Prize-winning EMPIRE FALLS. I would rate this book a 10 --- the kind that don't come along too often. |
| CJ Jones ([email protected]) |
| The Appeal by John Grisham |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This is a gritty story of the law, politics and the unsavory practices of large companies that effect people's lives. The first 3/4's of the book was page turning (5 rating), but the last 1/4 totally fell apart, leaving you hanging indecisively. |
| C. J. Jones ([email protected]) |
| Love in the Time of Cholera by Gabriel García Márquez |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A haunting love story that stood the test of time. Set in the 19th century on the Caribbean coast of South America, you will become enmeshed in the masterful portrayal of the three main characters. It's not a quick read, but it's well worth the time. |
| Readingrat |
| The Angel Experiment by James Patterson |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
The storyline tends to be a little too "pat" when it comes to plot resolutions for me, but I can imagine this series would be a hit with many young readers (boys in particular). I recommend this for anybody who is a fan of Katherine Applegate's Animorphs series. |
| 1@EHS ([email protected]) |
| My most excellent year by Steve Kluger |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Mixing baseball, musical theatre --- especially Mary Poppins --- and first loves, this book designed for young adults misses the mark. I am really enjoying the book, but I feel that the vast majority of teens will not get the references. They will enjoy all the angst and it is especially good for guys trying to figure out girls. |
| Catie 75 |
| Chaos Theory by Gary Krist |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Good book with an interesting premise. |
| Sally Bowen |
| In the Woods by Tana French |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A wonderfully written book, poetical as Ireland, about life, its meaning and how events effect us. There is mystery and detection, as well. There's no straight way to the "end game"; rather, this book slides alternately from poetical to hard-nosed reality, in and out of the dreams and innocence of life to the bare tough nakedness of it. A top-shelf recommended read. |
| June |
| The Quilter's Apprentice by Jennifer Chiaverini |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is the first in the Elm Creek Quilters series. I've read books 1-4 so far and am starting #5. They all have enjoyable characters and story lines. My fave is the THE RUNAWAY QUILT, a current story woven with Civil War history. |
| marleen davis |
| The Motel Life by Willy Vlautin |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is a story of just plain bad luck. The two main characters lose their mother as teenagers and try living on their own, but seem to get everything wrong. Trouble follows them wherever they go. They really don't listen to any advice, don't see ahead and therefore get nowhere. They are aimless and it is really sad. But their relationship is tender and heartwarming. They are in the low-income fringes of the country and don't even think about getting out; they just really exist. The writing is really special. |
| Peggy |
| Beach Road by James Patterson; Peter De Jonge |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Great book with a shocking twist near the end. A must read. |
| Priscilla |
| The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Almost everyone must have seen Randy's story on television. He is a man who is dying of cancer. He faces this in a very courageous way. |
| Donna Hall |
| The Blue Zone by Andrew Gross |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This book is about the Witness Protection Program and how it can be infiltrated by outsiders. A riveting, edge-of-your-seat book that you can't put down. I am now reading Mr. Gross's newest book, THE DARK TIDE. |
| Bree |
| Secrets by Jude Deveraux |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Just as the title suggests, there are secrets throughout the book. However, the only person who does not seemed to be in on the secrets is Cassie, the nanny. While the book would be classified a romance, it definitely has light-hearted suspense as well. |
| Donna |
| The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This would earn a 10-star rating from me. What do you leave your wife and children when you find out you are dying? Wonderful memories....Mr. Pausch has figured it all out. It's a must read for anyone who has been through the dying of a young person. |
| Elva Roberts |
| Cruel Justice by William Bernhardt |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This crime-courtroom thriller is one of those "don't want to put down" books. Actually, I read it on all on a Sunday, staying up until 2 am to do so. It is wonderfully easy to read and the ending is really a surprise. I love murder and other mysteries that are well written, and this was excellent. I am going to look for more books by this author. |
| Anita |
| The Woods by Harlen Coben |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I have read other books by this author, and though this was a suspenseful and fast-paced mystery, I felt it was not as good as some of his previous books. In addition, it was not written as well as the others. It still had somewhat of a surprise ending, which always makes the total experience of reading a mystery worthwhile. |
| Readingrat |
| Wish You Well by David Baldacci |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A well-crafted and touching story reminiscent of Harper Lee's TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD. |
| Bonnie |
| God's Middle Finger by Richard Grant |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A rip-roaring true account of an area on our doorstep in Mexico that we know very little about. In this mountainous area, the main commerce is in drugs; law is nonexistent or, often corrupt, and it's a dangerous place to be. Grant's writing is engrossing, exciting and funny, often simultaneously. |
| Ana Marie Kemper |
| Emma's Secret by Barbara Taylor Bradford |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
this is the 4th book that follows her late '70's book, A WOMAN OF SUBSTANCE. There are (so far) 6 books in the series. The story of Emma Harte continues through her children, grandchildren and so on. It is good story with bits of drama here and there, which tends to happen in all large families. I only wish it would not have taken Ms. Taylor Bradford all these years to add to the original book. |
| Gale in Houston |
| The Argeneau Vampire Series by Lynsay Sands |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
The nine books in this series are a hoot; they're about vampire romance, with a little bit of suspense and a lot of humor. Sands shares her unique view of how, when and why vampires came to exist and how the extended Argeneau family lives and loves. The author's website recommends reading them in order, which is slightly off from publishing order. This is the series list: A QUICK BITE; LOVE BITES; SINGLE WHITE VAMPIRE; TALL, DARK & HUNGRY; A BITE TO REMEMBER; BITE ME IF YOU CAN; THE ACCIDENTAL VAMPIRE; VAMPIRES ARE FOREVER; VAMPIRE, INTERRUPTED. Have fun! |
| Irene G. |
| Teacher Man by Frank McCourt |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I listened to the audio book and found this story of a teacher in the New York City schools most entertaining. Its funny and Mr. McCourt is a pleasure to listen to. I listened to his previous books ANGELA'S ASHES and TIS and loved them. He's a great author. |
| Gale in Houston |
| A Stranger's Game by Joan Johnston |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
A STRANGER'S GAME opens with a one-night stand between an Austin, Texas FBI agent and --- unbeknown to him --- a convicted double-murderer. There are lots of intersecting plots, including terrorism threats to the President and the Texas governor, a search for justice by a group called Victims for Vengeance and the chase for a jealous serial killer. This novel is included in Johnston's Bitter Creekseries. She writes about many characters whose stories must have been told in earlier books. Since this is first of her novels I've read, it was very confusing to read inconclusive bits and pieces of those other tales. Still, worth a look. |
| Jean |
| The Da Vinci Cook by Joanne Pence |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This culinary cozy is light and easy to read, though just somewhat entertaining. Not bad, but just not great. |
| Cynthia Baxter |
| The Brief Wonderous Life of Oscar Wao by Junot Diaz |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
I chose this recent Pulitzer winner because of a couple reviews I read that indicated they *liked* the book but didn't know if they would *recommend* it. Hunh. What does that mean, exactly? Now I know. So, I give it three stars. I did enjoy the book and I do recommend it for a reading group. I can think of several points for discussion --- the author's method of extensive footnotes and heavy use of "Spanglish", the different voices used in the narrative, the point of it all. And mostly, I think the discussions would navigate towards, "If you could recommend a 2007 book for the Pulitzer, what would it be? Would it be this book? Do you think it's deserving?" |
| Carol Grubbs ([email protected]) |
| Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Excellent writing; I could not put the book down. It's the story of a 93-year-old man in a nursing home and the remembrances of his life as a veterinarian in the circus and how hard life was during the depression. I am glad I am of the baby boomer generation. |
| Debi |
| Finders Keepers by Fern Michaels |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Although this is a nice, pleasant read, toward the end I felt as though several of her plot lines could be developed into individual novels! I liked the basic plot --- a woman who has been kidnapped as a child and raised by wealthy parents, finds the pieces of herself that had been stolen. |
| KG |
| The Master Butchers Singing Club by Louise Erdrich |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is the best story from page one. I loved every minute I spent reading it and was so sad to see it end. A German immigrant settles in North Dakota after World War II. We see that small community through his eyes and many of its residents. There is love, mystery, sadness and happiness in this wonderful book. I would give it 5++++ stars if I could! |
| Readingrat |
| The Dollmaker by Amanda Stevnes |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This book has a wonderfully imaginative premise and well-crafted characters. It's not as strong on either suspense or chills as I would have expected from reading the cover blurbs, but it's a story worth reading nonetheless. |
| Rosalie Altmark ([email protected]) |
| Julia's Chocolates by Cathy Lamb |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is a beautiful and moving story of Julia, who was raised in a home with an abusive alcoholic mother. She is a beautiful woman who has gone through a living hell and is finally coming out of it. She is learning to love and trust both herself and others. It involves all that makes for good, endearing and enjoyable fiction. |
| Bridget |
| City of Dreams by Beverly Swerling |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I really liked this book, a multi-generational saga that takes place in New Amsterdam and Old New York. There were lots of twists and turns in the plot, some I saw coming, some were really surprising. The occupation of each generation is "healer," either physician, surgeon, apothecary or "healing woman." That in itself was okay. The thing that keeps me from giving it 5 stars is the tremendous detail in the descriptions of old surgical practices. It was a little more than I needed to know. After a quarter into the book, I found myself skimming these sections. |
| Barbara Dormer ([email protected]) |
| Mirage by Nina Burleigh |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
While the invasion was a disaster for Napoleon, the info brought back by his savants was priceless, including the Rosetta Stone. |
| Bonnie |
| Like You'd Understand, Anyway by Jim Shepard |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Stories. Must be me, but I don't get the awesome reviews. |
| Lynn |
| Lottery by Patricia Wood |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is a great read! You'll laugh, cry, and root for the mentally-challenged main character to triumph over his challenges. An unbelievable novel that I couldn't put down and did not want to end. |
| Anita Yancey |
| Third Degree by Greg Iles |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is a story about a woman who is having an affair, and becomes pregnant by her lover. In the meantime, she has no idea about the problems her husband is going through. When he finds an unsigned letter from her lover, things escalate into a hostage situation. Little by little, the problems start coming out. There is a surprise ending. All in all, a good read. |
| Julie |
| Pillars of the Earth by Ken follett |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Although this book is almost a thousand pages, I can't put it down. It's wonderfully written, capturing and drawing you into 12th-century England. I highly recommend it. I can't wait to read the sequel, WORLD WIHOUT END. |
| Genie |
| The Witch Is Dead by Shirley Damsgaard |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Ophelia is preparing to adopt Tink, a teenager who is a medium she is mentoring. The path to adoption has been a rocky one filled with many complications. Ophelia is not looking for another mystery to solve; however, Aunt Dot has come to visit and is hoping for an adventure. More adventure than anyone imagined occurs when the local funeral director, an acquaintance of Aunt Dot's, is found murdered in his own mortuary. More complications materialize when Tink begins having visions of corpses with missing body parts begging her for to help them. When Tink is kidnapped, Ophelia and Abby (along with Aunt Dot and her fairies) must solve the crime. The question is: Is the kidnapping connected to or part of a completely different investigation? Although there were several things I figured out, there were motives I discovered along with Ophelia, Abby, and Aunt Dot. This is a fun, cozy mystery with enough nasty characters, ghosts, fairies and creepiness to please any mystery lover. |
| Marsha |
| Justice Denied by J. A. Jance |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
J. P. Beaumont and his lover and fellow cop, Mel Soames, are assigned to a special investigation group as they check on registered sex offenders and unravel a disturbing pattern or death among them. A compelling read. |
| Janeene |
| The Last Time They Met by Anita Shreve |
| Rating: 1 Stars |
|
This was a book club read --- I am one of those "start a book, finish a book" people, but I couldn't do it this time. While I know many love Shreve's writing, I could not get engaged enough with this book to make me care about the characters, or want to find out the ending. |
| Janeene |
| The Sky Isn't Visible from Here by Felicia C. Sullivan |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
An interesting look at a young woman's life with a mother who was an addict, and the impact this had on her life and relationships. |
| Cindy |
| The Shack by William P. Young |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This a truly awe-inspiring book that everyone must read! It moved me to tears of sadness and uplifted my heart to the most wonderful of experiences. Never has a booked moved me as this one has. Please, everyone, read this book and get to know Missy and her dad; you will never forget it. It is one of those books that will stay with you long after you have read it. |
| Judy O. |
| Skeletons at the Feast by Chris Bohjalian |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is one of those special novels that comes around occasionally. We first meet the Emmerich family as they are fleeing west across Germany trying to outrun the Soviets at the end of World War II. We also meet Callum Finella, a Scottish POW who accompanies the family on their trek. Along the way, they encounter Uri Singer, but since he has changed his name, they do not know that he is a Jew who has escaped from a German deportation train. This group heads across Germany for many months together, and along the way they become sort of a family. It is a wonderfully told story of a horrible war and its toll on human life. |
| Shirley Akins |
| Deep Dish by Mary Kay Andrews |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I love this book! Mary Kay has written another delicious tale set in Georgia. Chef Gina Foxton is host of her own local Ga. public Television show called "Fresh Start". She meets Tate Moody when they are placed in a cook off to become the Cooking channel's next star. |
| Debi |
| Change of Heart by Jodi Picoult |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Once again, Ms. Picoult takes a difficult topic and creates a masterpiece! A convicted murderer wants to donate his heart after he is put to death --- to the sister of the girl he murdered! She portrays the moral dilemmas of the mother, child, priest, and lawyer with finesse. A great book! |
| N. Fox |
| Tell Me Where It Hurts by Nick Trout |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
A veterinary surgeon describes a busy day in his work life, full of lots of sympathetic pets and a variety of owners. This is fast paced, and sometimes funny. |
| Lisa |
| The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson. trans by Reg Keeland |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
An amazing story. While billed as a mystery, it transcends the genre and would classify as outstanding fiction just as easily. |
| Karen Barash |
| Garden Spells by Sarah Addison Allen |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
An enchanting book with its own magic. |
| Debbie ([email protected]) |
| Twenty Wishes by Debbie Macomber |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Debbie Macomber at her best once again with this Blossom Street book. It continues with four widows on Blossom Street....they all make a list of "Twenty Wishes." Great characters...can't wait for 2009 when SUMMER ON BLOSSOM STREET is released. |
| William Smith |
| Mercy Falls by William Kent Kreuger |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This Cork O'Connor mystery series grabs your attention and takes you on a trip into a world few Americans are familiar with. These are fast-paced books about characters you'll like. |
| Janet Stewart |
| Oscar Season by Mary McNamara |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Dishy Hollywood murder mystery....not what I expected. |
| Noreen Brown |
| Rhett Butler's People by Donald McCaig |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
I am about 1/3rd through the book. If it weren't for my book club, I would have stopped sooner. The characters are not interesting.The only names I remember are those from GONE WITH THE WIND. If I hadn't read that, I wouldn't even remember Scarlett's name. |
| Kathryn M. |
| They Did It with Love by Kate Morgenroth |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This is a light read that gets more interesting as you keep reading. It's about 4 couples in an upscale neighborhood. We learn more and more about their intertwined lives as a murder of one of their own is being investigated. You won't expect the ending, and you may not like it, but it's definitely good for discussion. |
| Lynn |
| Nineteen Minutes by Jodi Picoult |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is the saddest book I've ever read. It's the story of a high school massacre and the aftermath for the kids and the families involved. Jodi Picoult's writing is outstanding. |
| Helene Harris |
| I Was Told There'd Be Cake by Sloane Crosley |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This was not as hilarious as I had been led to believe, yet it was much better because so much of it rings so true of how painful everyday acts can be. Crosley is not the most linear writer --- her rambling often makes the reader say, "where is this going?" It turns out it doesn't matter much in these short essays because of the points she succeeds in making hit home. |
| Helene Harris |
| Liberty's Blueprint by Michael Meyerson |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
If you like American History, this is a very well-researched, clearly written, and accessible look at Hamilton, Madison and the Federalist Papers. |
| April |
| Over Hexed by Vicki Lewis Thompson |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Has anyone else read OVER HEXED by Vicki Lewis Thompson? If you haven't, you should definitely pick up a copy and read it, it's really worth it. It's a light, uplifting, fun, romantic comedy with paranormal elements thrown in. The characters are really endearing and the story itself exceptional. Thompson might be better known for her Nerd series, but I have a feeling this is her newest series in the making, soon to be in the spotlight. This book is about this hot guy named Sean who has the problem of attracting the attention of too many, if not all, the women he meets. And when a new couple come to town, Dorcas and Ambrose, who are magically inclined matchmakers in hiding, Sean accidentally mentions his little problem in front of them. Well, it's a challenge to the matchmaking couple who decide to act. But, fixing Sean's problem won't be easy. Sean gets the make-down of his life even as he suddenly meets his soul mate. So how does a guy who's always depended on his good looks for everything suddenly convince the woman he's made for to give him a chance? Well it will be hard in Sean's case, because Maggie is in town as a rival buyer for a piece of property Sean desperately wants to own in the first place. In the second place, Sean will have to really work at being charming instead of letting everything ride on his great looks. I really enjoyed all the characters in this book but I simply love Dorcas and Ambrose. Thankfully, they will be up for a new challenge in book two of this series, titled WILD & HEXY, coming out in June 2008. Can't wait to see what mischief they get into then. |
| Marsha |
| Shoot Him If He Runs by Stuart Woods |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This Stone Barrington novel is a quick read and has some delightful twists. Although, if you have read a few of his earlier works containing the characters of his friends Holly Barker and former police partner Dino, your enjoyment would be enhanced. |
| Jennifer Kohler |
| Bridget Jones Diary: Edge of Reason by Helen Fielding |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Hilarious, and laugh-out-loud funny. I didn't think this could be better than the first novel, but I was completely mistaken. I thought they were both better than the movies as well. |
| Barbara R. Taylor |
| The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down by Anne Fadiman |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This nonfiction book powerfully demonstrates two diverse cultural concepts of health and disease --- those of Hmong immigrant refugees who don't speak English and frustrated western medical personnel who cannot decipher a sick Hmong baby's symptoms. The book reads like a thriller as both a baby's parents and their doctors try desperately to help this child. |
| D. Lohrding |
| Holloywood Crows by Joseph Wambaugh |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This picks up where HOLLYWOOD STATION leaves off; it's full of lively characters, sex and crime. A fast read. |
| Lyla D ([email protected]) |
| Confessions of a Carb Queen by Susan Blech |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A memoir about a young woman's struggle with eating and the lies she tells herself as she eats her way to 468.1 pounds. As a compulsive eater, I was able to identify with her feelings, fears, and yes --- even the lies I tell myself. This was written by someone who has been there and searched for the way out, which she found. The fears that overwhelmed her, the joys that came from learning to love and trust herself --- it's all there. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is struggling with acceptance of an eating disorder and for those who love them. Thank you, Susan. |
| Sal Williams |
| The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I, too, have terminal cancer, so I was quite interested in reading Pausch's observations at the end of his life, picking up some pointers along the way so that I could put some thoughts on paper myself. This well-organized book is a big help. Its sections cover the highlights of Pausch's life, as well as telling how he prepared himself and his family for his imminent death. He discusses the strengths in his life that led to success, his good parents in particular, and he discusses his illness forthrightly without a shred of self pity or pathos. His insights on his success in life are inspiring and well and humorously told. This is a very gentle read about a good and interesting man who is dealing gallantly with life's most immense problem. |
| Patricia B. Potts ([email protected]) |
| Jane Boleyn by Julia Fox |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A novel of Jane Boleyn (Lady Rochford), and how she is/was misunderstood in her role of destroying her sister-in-law, Anne Boleyn and Katherine Howard in her quest for love even though married to Henry VIII. |
| Monica ([email protected]) |
| I'm the Vampire, That's Why by Michelle Bardsley |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Not at all what I expected. I thought the storyline would focus more on the fact that she is a vampire with kids, but it's a typical vampire love story. If you like MaryJanice Davidson's Undead series, you'd like this, too. |
| Gladys Paradowski |
| The Hot Flash Club Chills Out by Nancy Thayer |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
I am enjoying all of the descriptions of activities and scenes on Nantucket and the uniqueness of the island; but, with five main characters and the chapters switching back and forth between Nantucket and the home life of each character, I am finding it hard to remember just what pertains to whom. Still, all in all, the book is interesting |
| Lisa Garrett |
| Atonement by Ian McEwan |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This takes you to a different time in England before the war. It has a great plot, but it sometimes gets bogged down with too much detail. |
| Frank Nigro |
| Gone, Baby, Gone by Dennis Lehane |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A thrilling ride in the search for a missing child. Lehane is a Boston writer in the mold of Robert B. Parker on steroids. Tight and edgy, if you like emotion mixed with your suspense, this book is a fun, disturbing page turner. |
| Lynn Marler |
| 20th Century Ghosts by Joe Hill |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Although I loved Joe Hill's debut novel, HEART-SHAPED BOX, I'm having a hard time with his 2nd publication, 20TH CENTURY GHOSTS. He's such a fine author and the stories are so well written, but each one has such a dark (I mean really, really dark) vein running through it. I wonder if there's something going on in his life to cause the darker outlook? |
| Kathy V. |
| Designed To Die by Chloe Green |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is another Dallas O'Conner mystery. It follows Dallas's life still, but the story is slow. I think it took me a while to read it because I kept losing my attention for the story line. She's off to another adventure and ends up in the middle of trying to solve a crime where nothing makes sense. |
| Patricia B. Potts ([email protected]) |
| Vengeance is Mine by Brandy Purdy |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A novel of Henry VIII's wives: 2nd wife Anne Boleyn, 5th wife Katherine Howard, and Lady Rochford, who aided in destroying both women. |
| Robin W. |
| Summer Lovin' by Carly Phillips |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Carly's books are always fun and very enjoyable! If you take this one to the pool, remember to keep applying sunblock, because it's such a great read that the time will fly by! |
| Jennifer |
| Run by Ann Patchett |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Good, but not great, book. It was just so-so until the middle, and there, it picked up and became a pretty good book. |
| Sandra |
| The Dark Tide by Andrew Gross |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This was one of the best thrillers I have read in a long time! There were lots of twists and turns, and the chapters are short, so you can pick the book up and read one chapter in five minutes. |
| M Monahan |
| The Lives and Loves of Daisy and Violet Hilton by Dean Jensen |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
I'd like to give this 3.5 stars. It's a fascinating story about the lives of conjoined twins. I had to keep reminding myself that it was a true story. It's very sad how they were exploited and mistreated, both in show business and in life in general, because of their deformity. |
| Betty Jo ([email protected]) |
| People of the Book by Geraldine Brooks |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is one of my top reads of 2008. Brooks does it all --- this is a great story, beautiful writing, with a hint of mystery, history, and love. |
| Mia (CA) |
| The Book Thief by Markus Zusak |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is an amazing book, narrated by Death, of a young girl in Nazi Germany who acquires (steals) books and learns to read and love words in the midst of a world that is filled with loss, fears, friendship and compassion. It is listed as a young adult book, but is a must read for people of all ages. |
| Eileen Quinn Knight |
| Peony in Love by Lisa See |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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Last week I had the opportunity to hear Lisa See talk about her books. She was totally engaging and fascinating to listen to. She spoke about how she did her research into historical fiction, and how she was interested because of her own family background. So when I came home, I re-read PEONY IN LOVE --- this time signed by the author. The story reads so easily. One feels as if the author was right there in the story. I'd love to be able to write like her. |
| Marion Miller ([email protected]) |
| People of the Book by Geraldine Brooks |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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This was truly an exciting, suspenseful novel. It could have been nonfiction, considering the volumes of research that the author pored through to write this story. This is a must read for book clubs and all serious readers. Geraldine Brooks is an accomplished author and all her books, such as YEAR OF WONDERS and MARCH, are terrific. |
| Ernestine Van Akeleyen ([email protected]) |
| Awa Maru - Titanic of Japan by Rei Kimura |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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I never realized this incredible tragedy had taken place during World War II, when we torpedoed a mercy ship, killing thousands. The story is told through the eyes of the surviving daughter of one of the passengers; it was very emotional and well written, and the tears start early. |
| Michael Baumohl ([email protected]) |
| The Making of The Lords of Flatbush by Stehpen Verona |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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A terrific behind-the-scenes story of the making of one of my favorite films, which has Sylvester Stallone and Henry Winkler in their first movie roles. How this film got made and then became so successful is amazing. |
| Fran |
| Bright Angel Time by Martha McPhee |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
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I heard rave reviews about this book/ author but I just couldn't see what all the hype was about. This was one of those stories where nothing really happens and I wasn't sure what the point of it was. Oh well, it was interesting enough to finish, but I certainly wouldn't recommend it to others. |
| Debbie ([email protected]) |
| Careless In Red by Elizabeth George |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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I missed Barbara and Thomas and was glad to see them working together again. I had never realized that Cornwall area had surfing, and the scenery was grand. The different quirky people were amazing as well as how all the pieces fit in the end. |
| Carol |
| Marley & Me by John Grogan |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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After finishing THE YEAR OF MAGICAL THINKING, the story of a woman who lost her husband to a fatal heart attack, I needed a change. This book about the world's worst dog is lighthearted, funny, and should delight any animal lover. |
| Kathie |
| Dog Days by John Levitt |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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Okay, I can go on and on about the characters and the well-described settings, but they're only part of what's good about Mr Levitt's book. An author must be able to create a fantasy world that follows logic. While the world of wizards, practitioners, and followers of the magical arts may not be real, there has to be a thread of logic or probability; otherwise it's nothing more then a bunch of words strung together. Mr Levitt manages to create for the reader a very real, fictional world where practitioners do exist and where this story could very easily occur. While things do go wrong and characters don't have the perfect solution to all their problems, it's not because they're stupid, but realistic. An excellent start to a brilliant series. Oh, there is an added bonus --- the cover, outstanding work. |
| Malcolm R. Campbell |
| Unplugged by Nancy Whitney-Reiter |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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Subtitled "How to Disconnect From the Rat Race, Have an Existential Crisis, and Find Meaning and Fulfillment," this practical guidebook will help us find ourselves. |
| Lee |
| Crashing Through by Robert Kurson |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
The true story of Michael May, who was blinded at age 3, and surgery could give him vision some 40 odd years later. His dilemma is to have the surgery or not. There is so much research on why the eye sees or doesn't. Fascinating! |
| Jane ([email protected]) |
| Sweet Mandarin by Helen Tse |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
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Although this was an interesting book that incorporated many historical facts about China, life in Hong Kong and immigrants feelings, it just didn't grab my heart. I fully expected it too and kept waiting for the punch, but it just didn't happen for me. It was a first novel so maybe future books will be more developed. An interesting read? Yes.... Could I put it down? Yes, with no problem. |
| Lee |
| Peony in Love by Lisa See |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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I thought it was going to be gut wrenching like SNOW FLOWER AND THE SECRET FAN, but others urged me on. At the end of the first section I let out a "GASP!" and read it til 3 am. This is a great read if you are drawn to love that never ends. |
| LaRita Heet ([email protected]) |
| Belong to Me by Marisa de los Santos |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Like many avid readers, I like different books for different reasons. But, by far, my favorite books are those like BELONG TO ME --- meandering, lyrical tales that draw the reader into a setting so real that the reader's own life fades into the shadows. I have just finished BELONG TO ME and its characters, storyline, and every single word had me so transfixed that I am now on a self-imposed period of Book Mourning, when I have to go with no book for a couple of days (a LONG time for me!), because I'm sure nothing will ever compare to the one I've just finished. Only a few authors have the ability to do this to me, but Marisa de los Santos has earned herself top billing on this list. If you haven't read this book, go get it NOW --- this minute. Find a 24-hour bookstore or drugstore or grocery store, and get yourself a copy. You can thank me later. |
| Kyla |
| The Island of Eternal Love by Daina Chaviano |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I've just finished an ARC of this title (due out in June) and found it quite fascinating. Originally published in Spanish, the story revolves around Cecilia, a modern Cuban refugee living in Miami, and her obsession with the mysterious Amalia's family history and a house of spirits she is researching. The story was solid and had a magical dream-like quality to it, but the point of view jumps every chapter and makes it somewhat difficult to follow. I'm sure that if I'd had a family tree to help me remember who's related to whom (which I know the final publication will), it would've been smoother reading. Still, though, it was a bewitching story of love and survival. |
| Cynthia Plaza-Harney |
| Trouble The Water by Nicole Seitz |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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A story that will make you laugh, cry and hope. A story that teaches us how we can heal and redeem ourselves. The writer writes this simple tale, but with such a way that will touch your soul. After you read this book, you will hold on to each character. I do hope you read this one and I do believe it will become a movie. |
| Debbie |
| Thursday Next: A First Among Sequels by Jasper Fforde |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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The Thursday Next series is absolutely fabulous. It cheers me up just thinking about it :) Anyone who likes clever wordplay, literary allusions, quirky plots, and a great protagonist would like Fforde's work. |
