November 14, 2008 - December 4, 2008
Last contest period's winners were Carol, Nora, Sara, Steven andTom, who each received a copy of DIVINE JUSTICE by David Baldacci and SALVATION IN DEATH by J.D. Robb.
| Danelle Drake ([email protected]) |
| Flint by Maryann Davenport |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
A great, slow story that is both entertaining and informative. |
| Lori Barnes ([email protected]) |
| Cole Family Christmas by Jennifer Liu Bryan with Hazel Cole Kendle |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is a true story of a coal miner's family. There are 9 children within the Cole's family and the story takes place in a small company town of Benham, Kentucky. This is a beautiful and heartfelt story of the meaning of family and love that's shared for each other are truly gifts in themselves. This is a true account by recollection of different members put together to tell the story they shared one Christmas. The Sears Christmas "Wish Book" was the highlight this year for the 9 children. They were not use to being offered luxuries such as being able to go through the wish book and pick out something. Their father had put in a lot of hours with his coal mining job and was able to surprise them with this. They did not realize at the time how special their gifts would truly be. What sets this story off is an accident that causes one of their mother's most prized possessions, a treasured purple glass bowl , to be destroyed and this is what the beginning of what made this a most special story. I could picture this family and the love they shared for each other (and the goat) and reminded me of the very most important things in life are the ones we share it with. The illustrations in this book are adorable! On the first page is an illustrated picture of each family member, which is really neat. There are 6 Vintage Christmas-themed fabrics featured on the borders of the pages in the book, are similar to the fabrics that mama Cole would've used to construct the family's quilt. Another thing I loved about this book that made it more personalized, on the last page there is a Sepia toned photograph taken in 1919 of the Cole Family I thought that was a beautiful touch that added to this Treasured story of the Cole family. This makes a wonderful addition to any Library and one to keep for generations to come. |
| Fran |
| First They Killed My Father by Loung Ung |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A compelling memoir of a young girl and her family during the Pol Pot Kmer Rouge in Cambodia. Loung shares the harrowing story of her family's enslavement and starvation in Cambodian work camps. Although brutal at times, Loung tells a compelling tale, sparked by hope. Beautifully written, but difficult subject material. |
| Danelle Drake ([email protected]) |
| DeeDee Divine's Totally Skewed Guide to Life by Diana Estill |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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But a gut funny.....totally skewed, but oh so funny, guide to life. |
| Tara |
| Shades of Gray by Jessica James |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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This is an emotional, moving, thought-provoking novel set during the Civil War. You will find yourself laughing out loud, and crying. Lyrical writing and fantastic dialogue. |
| Lorna |
| Beverly Hills Dead by Stuart Woods |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is not your typical Stuart Woods novel, but still very good. It takes place in Hollywood in the 1940s. If you are a faithful Woods reader, you will find out how some of your favorite characters (Vance Calder) got their start. It's a quick read --- not his best but still keeps you going. |
| Marsha M |
| Child 44 by Tim Rob Smith |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A fascinating story of the horrific serial killing of children in Stalinist and post-Stalinist Russia, complete with a meditation on the circular logic of survival in this strange world where the politics of every situation colors meaning. In this world of no rules except recognizing and staying on the correct side of the propaganda of the day, Leo Demidov is a believer, a former war hero and a Moscow policeman in a "perfect society" where crime does not exist. When asked to investigate the death of a colleague's child, he takes the party line which declares the death an accident and not murder, despite evidence of this crime. This weakens his standing with his men. He falls prey to the machinations of an underling who jockeys for Leo's position. Leo is disgraced and exiled. Still working as a policeman in exile, he finds the body of a child who dies under the same conditions as the boy in Moscow. When he starts connecting the dots linking the deaths of 45 children to one perpetrator, he is declared an enemy of the state! But Leo wants to solve these crimes. Despite immense odds, he pursues the truth. And it takes him down an even darker path. An excellent thriller. |
| Marsha M |
| The Preservationist by David Maine |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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The story of the building of the arc, the flood and the aftermath told in first person by each of Noah's family members as the story unfolds. The details of everyday life, feelings, rivalries and chores add humanity to this biblical story. |
| Priscilla |
| The Space Between Us by Thrity Umrigar |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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The story is set in modern-day India. It is the story of two women --- an upper class housewife and an illiterate woman who is her housekeeper. |
| Christy H. |
| Shadow Kiss by Richelle Mead |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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This is the third book in the Vampire Academy series and I highly recommend you read the first two books before reading this one. I read all 400 plus pages of this book in one day --- it grabbed my attention from the very first and I could not put it down. Intense, suspenseful and full of shocking surprises --- I can't wait until the next book is released! |
| Ana Marie |
| Summer Island by Kristin Hannah |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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This is a great book with interesting characters who all have a story of their own. But could you ever forgive your Mother for hurting you in a way that no one else can? |
| Sara M |
| The Gate House by Nelson DeMille |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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Upon his return to the Gold Coast, John Sutter is headed for a happy ending. After a scandalous affair that destroyed his marriage and way of life ten years ago, it seems he has reconnected with his ex-wife, Susan, the love of his life. He's able to forgive her affair with a Mafia Don even though it led to her murdering her lover and plunging John into misery and humiliation. But he's not the only person to resurface --- his wife's ex lover's son is bent on revenge. And his ex-wife's horrible parents want to thwart any chance of a reconciliation. As John battles for his life back, he learns there are still many secrets left to be revealed. What's Good: Be forewarned --- this novel is instantly consuming. DeMille's conversational style of narration captivates the reader. The novel is a cross genre success: part social commentary, part suspense novel, and with a fair amount of romance; this book is simply fun to read. You also won't need to pick up the previous book, THE GOLD COAST (though you may want to), as DeMille quickly sucks you into John Sutter's world. I hope I'm not alone in the hopes of another sequel. What's Bad: Almost nothing, but the book does stretch on for 670+ pages. So, be prepared to devote a good block of time and possible late nights to this worthy treasure. |
| Venessa |
| Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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Truly an amazing book! I highly recommend you buy it, check it out from the library or download the audio. (I rec'd the audio. The narrators are fantastic.) I'll be buying the book to re-read in the near future. |
| Judy O. |
| The Gate House by Nelson DeMille |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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John Sutter from THE GOLD COAST is back and just as smart-mouthed as ever. Sutter calls himself, "borderline sarcastic", and that is what makes this such a great story. I laughed out loud on many occasions. It's not all funny, with a mafia hit here and there; so there is some suspense. However, I loved it!!! |
| Vicki |
| The Speed Queen by Stewart O'Nan |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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I am an O'Nan fan, and this one did not disappoint. O'Nan has a gift for making the reader feel like he is right there, in the midst of it all. This is about Majorie Standiford, and she is sitting on death row. She is nicknamed The Speed Queen, one of the Sonic Killers, and this books tells of the last few hours before her execution. She tells the story of what happened with her husband, and lover Natalie, in her words, that landed her on death row. |
| Sandra F. |
| Pegasus Descending by James Lee Burke |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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Another winner in the series featuring Dave Robicheaux. James Lee Burke depicts a time in New Orleans that really no longer exists. Every book in the series is a winner. |
| Karen |
| The WInds of Tara by Katherine Pinotti |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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"We call it Tara, after my father's home in Ireland." With this joyful proclamation in the first chapter of THE WINDS OF TARA, Scarlett O'Hara Butler returns to her beloved home. In the illusive and much sought-after novel by Katherine Pinotti, the essence and spirit of GONE WITH THE WIND is alive and well. Loyal fans who have longed to recapture the fascination and enchantment of the world that is Tara can finally find satisfaction. Ms. Pinotti stays true to the original characters that Margaret Mitchell gifted us with in her masterpiece using a matching approach and overall mood in her new story. As the cover states, "The Saga Lives On"! Scarlett has left Atlanta and Rhett, following the death of Melanie Wilkes, to seek comfort in the one thing she knows best, at the place she truly calls home, Tara. She hopes to regroup to think about how she will save her marriage and get Rhett back while also being able to spend time with her children Ella and Wade. Scarlett wants to see if she can finally make amends with her sisters, Suellen and Careen. Readers will begin to recall one of Rhett's favorite lines as they wonder if indeed Scarlett has grown a "real woman's heart"! Suellen and her husband, Will Benteen, have taken good care of Tara, along with financial help from the Butlers, while Careen --- as Scarlett comes to find out --- is ill. Careen has had a brief, but sadly broken, romantic relationship with a Yankee soldier, Miles Kantor, and is now hidden away at a convent. Of course, Mammy, Pork, Dilcey and all the other memorable members of the Tara family are there to greet Scarlett when she returns. Unfortunately, we also find that Jonas Wilkerson and his "white trash" wife, Emmy Slattery, are also still around and want a piece of heaven, a piece of Tara. As Scarlett finds out more about Careen's mysterious illness, she realizes that she must once again do all she can to save the family name and Tara. First order of business is to take Careen to England for a stay to "improve her health" and hopefully save the family from a highly explosive scandal. With plans on dealing with Wilkerson upon her return, Scarlett is once more found to be just as beautiful, and ambitious, but also sensitive and smart when needed for the sake of her family. Scarlett returns from England after much tragedy both at home and abroad and once again uses her cunning ways to deal with the repetitive misunderstandings of her relationship with Ashley, her feelings for Belle Watlin and her son Luke, the disaster waiting to happen with Jonas Wilkerson, and most importantly, Rhett. Seeing Rhett in England and again upon return just reinforces Scarlett's love and determination to get him back. As much as she would like to think about things "another day", Scarlett is forced to act to protect all that she loves and holds dear and in doing so, endangers her own life as well as those of others. Katherine Pinotti has taken up where GONE WITH THE WIND left off and weaves a sequel that is believable as well as highly enjoyable. Ms. Pinotti's book is an exciting read and enjoyable continuation of these much loved characters. The ending keeps you wondering if things will finally conclude the way a Tara fan would want. Here's to Katherine Pinotti for an emotional and satisfying story that needed to be told and in just this way! It is with great hopes that THE WINDS OF TARA will soon be available all over the world, so everyone can experience the journey back to Tara again! |
| Sandra F. |
| A Mercy by Toni Morrison |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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This is a short book, but very memorable. Toni Morrison has again shown why she is a Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist. A lovely, lovely book. |
| yeswecan14 |
| Elissa's Quest by Erica Verrillo |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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At last! A children's book that is really for children! ELISSA'S QUEST is pure delight. Elissa is clever, brave and has no qualms about speaking her mind. She's a model for all of us. The animals are very well portrayed, especially Gertrude the donkey and Ralph the camel. (They are an unlikely pair.) The story will engage readers of all ages. I give it two thumbs up! |
| Sandra F. |
| Dance of Death by Barbara Nadel |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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This book is set in a remote section of Turkey and in Istanbul. The reader gets a mystery while, at the same time, learning a great deal about Turkey and its people. |
| Norabee ([email protected]) |
| Perfect on Paper by Maria Murnane |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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This is a charming entry into the chick lit genre --- a funny book about a sports PR agent who gets into many scrapes, all while pursuing love and following her dreams. It's a lot of fun! |
| Kellie ([email protected]) |
| Those Who Save Us by Jenna Blum |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Wow! This book will stay with me for a long time. The story angle is unique and the writing was beautiful. There have been many books written about the Holocaust, but I don't think that many have been written from the viewpoint of a German woman who lived through World War II as the enemy --- not as a Nazi, but as a German citizen who had to cope with the knowledge, or lack of knowledge, of all that was happening around her. The author takes you back and forth between Anna's story during the war and Trudy's, her daughter, all grown up and trying to figure out why Anna has not revealed her secret past and who Trudy's real father is. The writing style of this novel is exquisite. I thought the author did a fantastic job linking the two eras and stories together. It made this book so much more remarkable. I highly recommend this wonderful book. |
| Kathy Kasten |
| Play Dead by Anne Frasier |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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In Savannah, GA people are being killed with something that paralyzes their bodies so they appear dead even though they aren't. When the coroner does an autopsy they are not dead yet. |
| Kay Keller |
| The Archangel Project by C. S. Graham |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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Excellent read!! Two wonderful characters, October "Tobie" Guinness, and Jax Alexander come alive in this thriller set in post-Katrina New Orleans. Actually, the city of New Orleans also came alive in this book as only someone from New Orleans could pull this off. I really enjoyed this book and will read more by this writing duo. |
| Norabee ([email protected]) |
| The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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A truly inspiring coming-of-age story about a young woman's search for mother love and the unexpected places she finds it. It was a great movie too! |
| Deidre Durance |
| Spiral Hunt by Margaret Ronald |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
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This is a debut novel, with beginning writer faults, but overall it is a good book containing many paranormal and mystical aspects. |
| Krishna |
| The Perfect Evil by Alex Kava |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
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I read this book for our Charlotte Sleuths Book Club. It was the first in the series. It had a good plot but some of the characters were a bit too typical. I have been told that she adds more depth to them as she has matured as a writer. So, I'm looking forward to reading more in the series. |
| Juanita |
| Acid Row by Minette Walters |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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A very interesting book that is based in England. It has captured my interest and is very intriguing. |
| Peggy |
| Hummingbird Soup by David Parry & Patrick Withrow |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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HUMMINGBIRD SOUP is about a kidnapping, money laundering and murder. It's a good read if you like thrillers. |
| Marisa |
| Scroll of Seduction by Gioconda Belli |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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Fascinating tale about Juana the Mad, daughter of Ferdinand and Isabella, intertwined with the story of orphaned Lucia living in Madrid during the 1960s. The historical story is worthy of 5 stars, but I also enjoyed the parts about Lucia as well. Recommended for historical fiction fans. |
| Norabee ([email protected]) |
| Behaving Like Adults by Anna Maxted |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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Fantastic British chick lit! This book was funny, warm and it makes you think about your own love relationships --- recommended! |
| Carol |
| Hounded to Death by Rita Mae Brown |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
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This continues the story of Sister Jane Arnold. It proved to be a bit lighter than earlier books in the series. Still, it was entertaining. She is not afraid to mention people from the area. It is still a surprise to be reading and have someone that truly is associated with the Virginia hunt scene in with the fictional characters. |
| Irene ([email protected]) |
| Made in the USA by Billie Letts |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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If you read WHERE THE HEART IS, you will love this book. The story starts out in South Dakota and it's about a 15-year-old girl named Lutie who is kind of wild, and her brother named Fate who is 11 years old and considered a nerd by his friends. Their father left them with his ex-girlfriend and went to Las Vegas to work in the casinos. Their mother is dead. Their father's girlfriend, who is grossly overweight, drops dead in Walmart. Afraid that Lutie and Fate will have to go to foster care, they take off in the girlfriend's car and head to las Vegas in search of their father. They finally get there and find out he had died in prison. The story depicts life in Las Vegas for two homeless kids and what they go through. I am still wondering where the title of the book came from. I'm almost finished and believe this is one interesting story that deserves the 5 stars. |
| Carol |
| Dewey by Vicki Myron |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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The author writes with humor and love about a library cat. As a former public library employee, this author struck a lot of sympathy cords with me. But anyone would be entertained if they like and appreciate that animals are extraordinary. |
| Marjorie Clark ([email protected]) |
| The Shack by William P. Young |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
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I was reluctant at first to read this book. The comments on the back jacket were leaning towards religion, "THE SHACK will leave you craving for the presence of God." When I finally finished, my views on life had changed. This book was a great experience for me and I highly recommend it. |
| Carol |
| Murder in Miniature by Margaret Grace |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
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Unfortunately the protagonist was not Mrs. Pollifax, and the author was certainly not Dorothy Gilman. The story was a bit thin. A grandmother starts to solve crime in a small city in California. There was just a bit too much snooping and running around town to be believable. |
| Readingrat |
| Left Behind by Tim LaHaye |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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A unique angle to the traditional apocalyptic thriller. It starts out a little weak and at times feels a little preachy and repetitive, but ultimately gets interesting enough towards the end to encourage me to give the second book a look. |
| Fran |
| Fledgling: A Novel by Octavia E. Butler |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is the second book I've read by Octavia E. Butler and I loved both of them. This book is about a young amnesiac, who wakes up to discover that she is a vampire, but is genetically altered to walk in the light of day. By virtue of her genetic modifications, Shori learns that she has deadly enemies who have already wiped out her family of origin. Shori must learn the ways of her people and discover why someone would want to harm her and her family members. Butler weaves a lyrical story, with likable characters and an interesting story line. In fact, I could hardly put this book down! |
| Danelle Drake ([email protected]) |
| Childsong by Thor Polson |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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One of those rare books that will change the way you think. A hard read but well worth it! |
| Danelle Drake ([email protected]) |
| Engaging Father Christmas by Robin Jones Gunn |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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From the first page of green text, you will be engrossed in the story of ENGAGING FATHER CHRISTMAS. This is one book you need to add to your holiday reading list. It would make a great gift also. |
| Carol |
| Food of Love by Anthony Capella |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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This is very much like LIKE WATER FOR CHOCOLATE. It's a fun and light story about am American who is seduced by cooking (but the chef is not whom she thinks). Another Cyrano de Bergerac story. |
| ck |
| The Rope Walk by Carrie Brown |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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At her 10th birthday celebration, Alice meets Theo, a bi-racial boy who is visiting Vermont for the summer, and Kenneth, an artist with AIDS, who has returned home so his spinster sister can care for him. Ms. Brown writes beautifully with dreamy descriptions of the children playing and enjoying companionship. But, the circumstances are not ideal and there is heartbreak in the details. |
| Melissa Basnight ([email protected]) |
| Pick Me Up by Zoe Rice |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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Great romance with comedy and mystery thrown in. |
| Jessica |
| Loving Frank by Nancy Horan |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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An impeccably researched, fascinating historical novel from the point of view of Frank Lloyd Wright's mistress --- who may have been his one great love. I'm only about 60 pages in and already completely hooked on this engrossing, emotional story filled with interesting period detail from the early 1900s. |
| Kaye |
| The Fire by Katherine Neville |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Thinking the trip is much too dangerous, Cat Velis begs her husband, Alexander Solarin, not to take their 12-year-old daughter Alexandra to Russia for a chess tournament. Even so, they travel to the walled park of Zagorsk for the match. While waiting in line to get into the vestry where the match is to be held, an old woman brushes past Alexandra and leaves her with an embossed card with the Russian word for danger on it. Alexander gets a quick look at the old woman, but she can't possibly be who he thinks she is, can she? He grabs his daughter's hand to chase after the old woman when their world explodes. As a master storyteller, Neville really knows how to ramp up the suspense and intrigue. By the end of the prologue, I was hooked. We fast forward ten years to adult Alexandra, also know as Xie, receiving a very cryptic invitation from her mother to a birthday party. Xie thinks this is a little odd since her mother never celebrates her birthday and actually does not like to even tell people the date. Even though she has not had much communication from her in five years, she travels to Colorado only to find her mother missing. Several others, including her aunt Lily, her best friend Nokomis Key and Vartan Azvov, young chess master, also show up at the house. When Xie finds a chess set with a game in progress that was the same game she was playing when her father was shot, along with a mysterious set of clues, Xie feels she must search out her mother. The story alternates from one century to the present. From the past we learn the history of the Montglane Chess set, a very powerful set made for Charlemagne. Most of the pieces have been hidden around the world and many people have looked for them. Vividly portrayed are those who, over a span of many years, coveted its power and those who did all they could to protect the pieces of the set --- some dying while making the attempt. In the present, we follow Xie, her aunt Lily and others as she tries to find her mother, one of the people who had hidden numerous pieces of the set twenty years previously. But now Xie wonders if "The Game" is back on. There are a lot of heart thumping moments as Xie does not know who to trust or distrust during her search. The reader will be deeply enthralled with all the intrigue and mystery related to this highly valued chess set, anxiously turning each page to see the outcome. One criterion I have of a good book is that it makes the characters memorable long after the last page is read. Another aspect of a good book is an element of the story that makes you want to read further on that subject. Although this is a work of fiction, the historical parts are so well researched that I found myself wanting to read books on the Turkish Empire, Charlemagne or more on the French revolution. Many interesting aspects make up this book, such as the intermingling of elements: mystery, thriller, puzzles, international intrigue and even some romance. Although THE FIRE is sequel to THE EIGHT, it is a stand-alone book; but if you have not previously read THE EIGHT --- one of the most compellingly intriguing books ever --- I recommend that you do. There is a tremendous amount of fascinating history that will greatly enhance your understanding of THE FIRE. The characters are plausible, likable, and most are well developed. I think a few of the main characters could have been a little sharper. Historical figures are easily blended in with the fictional ones. The story is well paced and transitions smoothly from one time frame to the next with deep layers of complexity richly told. Neville's descriptions transport the reader right into the scene. With some thrillers and international conspiracies, the readers' need to suspend disbelief is implied. A few of the puzzle solving scenarios in the beginning I found a bit implausible but still and all a very enjoyable read. Highly recommended. |
| LL in New England |
| The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I wasn't sure when I picked this book up that I would enjoy reading a story written in the form of letters. I have to say, this is one of the best books I've read in quite a long time. The author made the characters so believable and so vividly come to life that it was hard not to believe you were reading a true account of the people of the Channel Islands. This is a must read for anyone looking for a book that you will be sad when you turn the last page and realize you are finished! |
| Debbie ([email protected]) |
| Chasing the Dime by Michael Connelly |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
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A prostitute is missing ---is she dead, and how is Henry Pierce involved? LA detective Harry Bosch is only mentioned in this novel in reference to the Dollmaker. Henry's company has a new idea concerning medicine and also computers, but a bigger company wants the ideas stopped. In the process, Henry is framed for murder. The twists and turns of this story are interesting, just miss Harry Bosch. |
| Sue |
| The Secret between Us by Barbara Delinsky |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
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This book is so typical of todays mores --- lying to cover up an unwanted event instead of owing up to the deed. |
| Celeste Ertelt ([email protected]) |
| The Fire by Katherine Neville |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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I am anxious to get back to my book to find out what happens. |
| Judy |
| Called Out of Darkness by Anne Rice |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
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A memoir of Rice's spiritual transformation from a deeply religious childhood to an atheistic adulthood and, finally, a return to spirituality in later adulthood. I found the early description of the Catholic Church as seen through the eyes of a child interesting, especially if you, yourself, had familiarity with the Catholic Church. The writing throughout, however, seemed disjointed, almost a stream of consciousness, and not very literary. |
| Melissa Basnight ([email protected]) |
| Confessions of Super Mom by Melanie Lynn Hauser |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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A great comedy about the life of a single mom with 2 kids who becomes a superhero battling evil in the form of messes. |
| Pam S. |
| The Shack by William P. Young |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
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This was disappointing after all the "word of mouth" recommendations. It just did not measure up to my expectations. I appreciated the topic of forgiveness, but just could not warm up to the obvious characters and plot. |
| Cheryl S. |
| The Heart Is A Lonely Hunter by Carson McCullers |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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A sad story about a deaf-mute named Mr. Singer who is friends with several vastly different characters, and the impact these friendships have had on his own life as well as those of his friends. All the characters are lonely in one way or another, and only seek acceptance and love. |
| Sue B |
| Hold My Hand by Serena Mackesy |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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All Bridget wants is a safe place to raise her daughter, Yasmin. The flat they share in London has become a prison instead of a home. Though Bridget has divorced her abusive husband and the court has ordered Kieran to stay away, he continues to stalk the two vowing to make Bridget pay for leaving him. Bridget struggles to keep a roof over their heads and food on their table as fear and desperation set in. The hope for a new and better life for Bridget and Yasmin comes in the form of a job offer. Bridget is offered the job of housekeeper at Rospetroc, a manor house in a part of the country where no one will know them --- where they will be safe. The house, however, has its own secrets and its own brutal history. The villagers have their suspicions as to why it has such a high turnover rate for housekeepers. Bridget has run out of options and must stay at the manor house, even though the move now seems like a dangerous mistake. This is a great book for anyone who likes ghost stories with a bit of mystery. |
| Trudy |
| Extreme Measures by Vince Flynn |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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EXTREME MEASURES is a fast-paced story featuring Mitch Rapp again as a CIA Counter Terrorism Agent. I have enjoyed all of Vince Flynn's books. It's one of his best. A must read for political thriller fans looking for a page turner. |
| Sofia Lanzulli |
| Swish: Maria in the Mourning by Pamela Palmer Mutino |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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Could not put it down --- it's the most exquisitely written, powerful, and compelling memoir ever about heroin addiction and the the mother-and-daughter relationship involved. It's gut-wrenching and sad, yet so vivid and breathtakingly beautiful even in the loss...I will never forget Maria! |
| Pam S. |
| The Age of Innocence by Edith Wharton |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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Being a fan of New York in the late 1800', I'm reading, and sometimes re-reading, Edith Wharton's work. THE AGE OF INNOCENCE won a Pulitzer Prize in 1937. The difference in morals and society's expectations of men and women certainly had changed after 50 years! Comparing the story and characters with those of current literature feels like the characters are from a different planet altogether! Divorce was not mentioned in polite company, let alone *thought about*! Love for anyone other than one's betrothed or wife (or mother or children) was a "wink and a nudge" for men, and "gutter status" for women. The age-old story of society dictating morals looms large in Wharton's books. At the very end, when our hero has his "second chance," I was wondering, what would he choose today with practically all the choices in the world available to him? |
| Michelle |
| The Lucky One by Nicholas Sparks |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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A really good read. |
| MaryinHB ([email protected]) |
| Testimony: A Novel by Anita Shreve |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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When I first started this book, I didn't understand where the story was going, but by the middle of the book, it became impossible to put down. The plot is very subtle and I absolutely loved it! |
| MaryinHB ([email protected]) |
| Here's the Story: Surviving Marcia Brady and F by Maureen Mccormick |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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I think everyone has seen"The Brady Bunch" at one time or another and this book should probably shock you a little about "Marcia's" true story. I thought it only became cliched in one chapter, which, for star memoirs, is a pretty acceptable statistic. |
| MaryinHB ([email protected]) |
| The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer Annie Barrows |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A very charming story about the German occupation of Guernsey Island during World War II as told through a series of letters. I have read other books similar to this method, but this one stands out. |
| MaryinHB ([email protected]) |
| One Fifth Avenue by Candace Bushnell |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I like Candace Bushnell's books much more than the television series. This one does not disappoint. It's a little slow at the beginning, but then the story takes off. |
| MaryinHB ([email protected]) |
| American Wife: A Novel by Curtis Sittenfeld |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Excellent story loosely based on Laura Bush that would have been a *5* had it been edited a little more. |
| F Tessa Bartels |
| Caramelo by Sandra Cisneros |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
I first read this in 2003 and really enjoyed it. I recently re-read it for my Hispanic book club. I'm less enthralled than at first. Cisneros's writing is poetic, but it seemed that the middle section was disjointed. There is something about her writing that just touches my soul. But, I don't this it's for everyone. |
| F Tessa Bartels |
| Sister Mine by Tawni O'Dell |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
When her sister disappeared, Shae-Lynn assumed their father had killed her. But 18 years later, a stranger appears in their small coal-mining town looking for Shannon. This isn't a mystery novel, but one about relationships and adults trying to overcome the damage done by trauma. |
| m monahan |
| A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A very touching and thought-provoking story about the lives of two women in Afghanistan. |
| MaryinHB ([email protected]) |
| Biting the Bullet: Jaz Parks, Book 3 by Jennifer Rardin |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This third book in the Jaz Parks' series was a little slow compared to the first two, but it did pick up with a nice flashy finish that left me wanting more. |
| Sean Flannigan |
| Sketches of a Young Man Wandering by Bradley Fink |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is really the best book I've read in ages. It's a lot like Kerouac, but in a Hemingway-esque voice. The narrator takes us casually through more than 10 countries on a backpacking adventure that ends in a wild finale in the heart of Africa. It really a feel-good story. |
| Bonnie Capuano ([email protected]) |
| Cold Pursuit by Carla Neggers |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I really like her books. This one is very good and really holds your attention. I highly recommend it! |
| LouBabe |
| Christmas at Blue Moon Ranch by Lynnette Kent |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I have tons of Christmas-themed books (love them) and decided it was that time of year to start reading them. This one was on top of the pile, and I was going to pass it over, since it looked like "just another cheesy love story". But I'm glad I didn't, because I'm quite enjoying it. Willa lost her husband to an IED in Iraq. Her life suddenly coincides with an Iraq veteran who has been badly wounded by an IED. She wants nothing to do with him (for a variety of reasons), but there is definitely a spark there, and two of her three children want a father. |
| Louise |
| Scandalous by Karen Robards |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Terrific book! This is supposed to be part of a trilogy about the Banning Sisters, so I waited to start on it till I could get the other two books in the trilogy. However, if there really is a third book, I sure haven't been able to find any mention of it. It takes place in 1810 England and has a lot of twists in it to keep you reading. I carried it around with me almost everywhere I went and had a hard time putting it down. I'm working on the 2nd one now which, so far, seems to be equally good. |
| Louise |
| Kiss an Angel by Susan Elizabeth Phillips |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I really liked this book. It seemed to have more "substance" than the others by Phillips that I've read. Daisy was forced into an unwanted marriage by her father and, in the process, went from spoiled little rich girl to living in a small beat-up trailer with a circus crew. It's a very warm-hearted story, and along the way, you'll learn a lot about circus life, as well. |
| Olga |
| The Brass Verdict by Michael Connelly |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
I am sorry to say that I was disappointed in this book. It just wasn't of the same caliber as the other Harry Bosch novels. The story is okay, but just lacks the panache of his other books I have read. |
| Olga |
| The Devil in the White City by Erik Larson |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I found this book very interesting and enjoyed it very much. It is the story of the building of the Chicago World's Fair in 1893, and a charismatic serial killer who lures women visiting the city to their death. Just the story of the fair and the trials of its realization would have been a great story on its own. You will recognize many names in the people involved. The story of the killer intertwined just adds to a really well-written fact crime story that makes you feel like you are there. |
| D. Lohrding |
| Royal Exile by Fiona Mcintosh |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is a new author for me. The book was a little confusing at the beginning, yet a real page turner --- now that I have the characters figured out as far as to who the good guys are and the bad guys. Still reading, more later. |
| Susan M |
| Middlesex by Jeffrey Eugenides |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This book is very well written, and hard to put down. I love the history and the way the story is woven in and out with the present-day Cal telling the story of his family's history. A very compelling read. |
| Vivian C |
| The Judas Field by Howard Bahr |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I have never really read Civil War novels, until now. This story is engrossing. A woman convinces two men to go back to a battle field and bring home the bodies of her father and brother. Making the return trip brings back so much about the battle for one of the men, Cass, that the story of all he remembers is told in a graphic and sweeping way. The characters are great and the slang of the time spot on. You can't put this book down as you travel with the men in battle, going from one place to another and striving just to survive, wondering as Cass is recalling this, what is the secret he is hiding about The Judas Field, and will he mentally survive going back. |
| Karen |
| The WInds of Tara by Katherine Pinotti |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Unfortunately not sold in US due to copyright laws, this marvelous book takes up where GONE WITH THE WIND left off. Pinotti gives the characters we know and love the right treatment and GONE WITH THE WIND fans will not be disappointed with Scarlett and Rhett. They are much better here than other sequels by a mile. |
| Vivian C |
| What Happened to Anna K. by Irina Reyn |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is a debut novel for Irina Reyn and a really great start. It is more than just a retelling of Anna Karenina. As a matter of fact, if you have never read Anna Karenina --- and I had not --- you will enjoy this book set in modern-day New York City, where the problems and aspirations of immigrants from Russia will make you think about choices. And are many choices a good or bad thing. The characters are great. Those who have read Anna Karenina will love this book too. |
| Reva Wamsley ([email protected]) |
| On The Run by Iris Johansen |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Iris Johansen never disappoints. This book is full of action with a touch of romance. Grace and her daughter are living a good life on a horse farm when a former enemy tracks her down. She escapes, but only for a little while, and then she is found again. |
| Margi |
| The Gate House by Nelson DeMille |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This book is 600+ pages and I can't wait to finish. I love DeMille's other book,s but this one and THE GOLD COAST, the prequel, are really slow. I am really tired of the Sutters and Bellarosas and the characters are not very believable. I like the John Corey character much better. |
| Betty Gene |
| Daughter of Deceit by Patricia Sprinkle |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is Book Three of Ms. Sprinkle's Family Tree Mystery Series set in and around Atlanta. Wealthy socialite Bara Holcomb Weidenaur is going through an extremely nasty divorce from husband number two, Foley. The man has frozen all of her assets in an attempt to force her to turn over voting shares in her late father's architectural firm. Bara has fallen off the wagon after twenty-five long years, and her nasty ex is killed during one of Bara's black-outs. This is a wonderful cozy mystery featuring a solid cast of continuing characters starring Katherine Murray, a budding genealogist. |
| Jayfr |
| Indignation by Philip Roth |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A short book focused on a few episodes in a college kid's life. It's a quick read with a Roth ending. I listened to the book on CD. The voices used were quite over the top and detracted from the listening. |
| Dorothy |
| Tethered by Amy Mackinnon |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
I read this on the recommendation of one of your readers. I finished it so it couldn't have been to bad but I wouldn't recommend it. |
| Sheila M |
| The Honk and Holler Opening Soon by Billie Letts |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I just finished THE HONK AND HOLLER OPENING SOON --- I really enjoyed it! Excellent character development and a heartwarming story. I know my book club will be choosing SHOOT THE MOON when we pick the next six months of books :-) |
| Becky from Chicago |
| Twenty Wishes by Debbie Macomber |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A quick and easy read that offers food for thought. What would your twenty wishes be and why? |
| Julie |
| The Eight by Katherine Neville |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Very engrossing and involved. A real page turner. |
| Patty Shogren ([email protected]) |
| Lucky One by Nicholas Sparks |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Another great love story. He does it again. |
| patty shogren ([email protected]) |
| Keeping the House by Ellen Baker |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A great saga about 3 generations of a family through 3 wars. I didn't want to put in down. The story in a small town in the '50s. You will love it. |
| Susan |
| Brass Verdict by Michael Connelly |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Michael Connelly brings 2 of his characters together and they turn out to be half brothers. Harry Bosch is related to the Lincoln Lawyer. I would highly recommend THE BRASS VERDICT. How does a lawyer treat a guilty client? The lawyer takes the law into his own hands and the outcome is still justice. |
| Sheila M. |
| Finn by Jon Clinch |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Jon Clinch takes us on a journey into the history and heart of one of American literature's most brutal and mysterious figures: Huckleberry Finn's father. I liked this book --- Clinch is an eloquent writer. The out-of-sequence storytelling was a bit distracting for me. Clinch takes information for Huckleberry Finn and creates a backstory of Finn's father. Finn was a hard to like guy most of the time. |
| Sheila M |
| The Clothes They Stood Up In & Lady in the Van by Alan Bennett |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Bennett is a British writer and a master of subtle irony, insight, and wit. I truly enjoyed reading these two short stories. The first one, "The Clothes They Stood Up In", is fiction and questions how important our possessions are --- how they define us and our relationship to all the items we pack in our homes and lives. The second story, "The Lady in the Van", is superb. Bennett becomes acquainted with an older woman who is living out of her van near his home. He is concerned about her and she eventually comes to park her van (it no longer runs) in his garden, where she lives for many years. She is highly eccentric and private. The story includes several vignettes of Bennett's conversations and observations of her. It is ironic that he almost learns more about her after her death (from a visit to her brother) than he did in all the time she lived in his garden. |
| Becky from Chicago |
| Year of Wonders by Geraldine Brooks |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I'm reading this for the second time! The writing is luminous. |
| Brian L. McDonald ([email protected]) |
| Hot Mahogany by Stuart Woods |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
A quick and entertaining read. If it were summer, I would equate it to a "good beach book." |
| J |
| The Kitchen Boy by Robert Alexander |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Really intriguing tale of what might have happened to the last Tsar and family, as told by the family's kitchen boy. It made me want to dig further and read more about what happened to the Romanovs, Rasputin, and the Revolution (the three "R's"). |
| M. Henry |
| The Shack by William P. Young |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Very moving --- certainly a new way to look (through fiction) at this topic. |
| M. Henry |
| The Dark Tide by Andrew Gross |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A very good thriller --- one you can't put down with lots of twists, and keeps you guessing. Highly recommended. |
| Becky from Chicago |
| Danger in the Shadows by Dee Henderson |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A mystery that kept me guessing --- and I can usually figure out the "bad guy" in the first twenty pages. |
| Irish |
| The Lace Reader by Brunonia Barry |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
I was so looking forward to reading this as I knew the back story of getting this published, but what a disappointment. When I finished it, I was so angry for having wasted my time. I really was lied to. |
| Vicky Burkholder |
| Dream Quest by edited by Linnea Sinclair and J. C. Wilder |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is an anthology of paranormal romances. Like most anthologies, there are good ones and not so good ones, but I did find that the large majority were entertaining and fun to read. |
| Renee |
| Suite Francaise by Irene Nemirovsky |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
SUITE FRANCAISE is a novel that has been in hiding for 64 years. The story of life in France during German occupation of World War II. The author was killed in Auschwitz. |
| Linda |
| Night Song: A Story of Sacrifice by Tricia Goyer |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
It's about the sacrifices during World War II. It's a historical fiction. |
| Ricki ([email protected]) |
| Nine Lives by F. Say |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
It starts a little slow, but turns into a great psychological thriller. |
| Tom Carrico |
| Out Stealing Horses by Per Petersen |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A slow-paced account of an old man facing the twilight years and trying to solve all of the puzzles of his life. |
| M. Henry |
| Executive Privelege by Phillip Margolin |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Very good mystery. It's predictable in places but has a surprise ending. Definitely recommended --- it's very well written. |
| Pattie Berryhill ([email protected]) |
| The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Interesting true tale of a very dysfunctional poor family. |
| Dodalodle from Beautiful British Columbia |
| Too Close To Home by Linwood Barclay |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Linwood Barclay takes one on an amazing roller coaster ride of thrills, twists and turns. The story opens with a brutal murder of an entire family in a quiet neighborhood in a small picturesque town. From there, the story takes off. It's a must read if you enjoy reading great thriller/suspense books. It really deserves 4 1/2 stars and I'm also proud to say Linwood Barclay is Canadian! |
| Irish |
| The Story of Edgar Sawtelle by David Wroblewski |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I found this slow moving at first, and the mother's action not believable.The writing was wonderfully expressive --- such a gift. I did not appreciate the ending at all.The editors must have had a terrible decision on what to leave out. It taught me a great many things on training dogs. All in all, a great read and a wonderful book to recommend. |
| E. Quinn Knight |
| The Secret Papers of Medame Olivetti by Annie Vanderbilt |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
It is worth a second read! Since fiction is to assist us in escaping from the mundane reality of our lives, this book is certainly a worthwhile second read. The author transports the reader to another place and time with such ease and fluidity. I really enjoyed it the first time, the second time I cherished her fantasy! |
| Cathy M |
| Swallowing Darkness by Laurell K. Hamilton |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This story is the latest entry in the Merry Gentry series, and I would not consider it a stand alone. If you've followed the series as long as I have, we get some resolution to Merry's continued struggle to remain alive long enough to bring more gift of the Goddess back to the land of Faerie. Contains violence and slightly less sex scenes than in previous stories. It advanced the storyline a great deal, and I really enjoyed it. |
| BSM |
| The Host by Stephanie Meyer |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Not as good as her TWILIGHT but still interesting. If you enjoy this type of novel, read it. She has found her niche. |
| KG |
| Water For Elephants by Sara Gruen |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I wasn't sure if I would like this book at the beginning of the story, but after the first 35 pages I could not put it down. A truly wonderful read which I highly recommend. |
| Janice G. |
| Swindle by Gordon Korman |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A young boy discovers a priceless antique baseball card in the ruins of an ancient house scheduled for demolition. The card is taken from him for a pittance by an unscrupulous dealer. What happens next is humorous and amazing. A group of sixth graders plot to retrieve the card using skills that each of them possess. Suitable for upper elementary and middle school, this book has action and some life lessons about adults taking advantage of children. |
| Debbie ([email protected]) |
| Trunk Music by Michael Connelly |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A Harry Bosch mystery set in LA, this one brings Eleanor Wish back into Harry's life. The case this time seems to be a Mafia (trunk music) hit, but what seems like the answer is just a smoke screen that causes much trouble for Harry and his team. But Harry never lets obstacles stand in his way and the path to the killer is soon detected. |
| Brady ([email protected]) |
| Cooked by Jeff Henderson |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This author was a one-time crook, dope peddler in Los Angeles and San Diego and a convict. After these experiences, he straightened himself out big time and is now a premier chef working in the most prestigious restaurants of America. A great story that also talks a lot about food preparation and the apt/inept workers in high-class restaurants. A great story! |
| Vi |
| Elissa's Odyssey by Erica Verrillo |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I've been reading ELISSA'S ODYSSEY to my granddaughter, and enjoying it immensely. The book is a delight! It's charming, has an intriguing plot, and absolutely wonderful characters. The writing flows smoothly, and keeps you wanting more. My granddaughter is looking forward to the next book in the series, and so am I! |
| mary ann |
| Belong to Me by Marissa De Los Santos |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A great story about a young woman named Cornelia who moves to a Philly neighborhood and tries to fit in. She is used to big cities and old movies and now has nosy neighbors. She has an adorable husband a great marriage. Throughout, she befriends Lake and her son Dev, becomes pregnant, and discovers many secrets. The characters from De Los Santos's first novel LOVE WALKED IN are here and it is a wonderful read full of various situations including friendship, cancer, community, parenting, and ultimately love and forgiveness. Love her writing! |
| Christy H. |
| The Darkest Touch by Jaci Burton |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This third story in the Demon Hunter series focuses on Ryder and Angelique. If you haven't read the previous two books I highly recommend reading them first so you have the background information and character histories leading up to this book. Full of danger and suspense, this fast-paced romance will have you turning the pages in anticipation of what is going to happen next. My only complaint is having to wait until the fall of 2009 to find out what happens with Dalton and Isabelle. |
| Steven Schwindt ([email protected]) |
| Factory Girls by Leslie T. Chang |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
The largest migration in the world's history: 130 million rural Chinese moved to cities to work in construction and in factories. Tale told very well. |
| Susan, Saratoga |
| Twilight by Stephenie Meyer |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
From a literary standpoint, the book is not well written. However, it's one of those books you keep picking up when you have a free minute. |
| Christine Z |
| Consequences of Sin by Clare Langley-Hawthorne |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This historical mystery features a strong-willed Edwardian suffragette whose friend she must defend from the accusation of murder. Her search for justice leads her back to her own father and a trip down the Orinoco in Venezuela. A great read. |
| Mary Ann |
| Love the One You're With by Emily Giffin |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A look at a newlywed marriage and a women's encounter with her first love. She wonders if she made the right choice --- if she would have been happier with her first boyfriend, and how her life would have been different...things most of us have pondered at one point, I believe. Inevitably, her questions are answered but there is a lot of drama in between. This was a nice read from the author of SOMETHING BORROWED, SOMETHING BLUE, and BABY PROOF. |
| Jan Anderson |
| Identical Strangers by Elyse Schein and Paula Bernstein |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Fascinating true story of identical twins adopted out to two different families as part of an experiment of "nature versus nurture". It's horrifying to realize that doctors and social workers at a New York adoption agency really did this to innocent people. |
| Marsha |
| Final Duty by Paul Carson |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Jack Hunt has just been appointed to a top position in a Chicago Hospital, but refuses to endorse a new heart medication even though it could mean thousands of dollars to his hospital. The drug company, in its rush to release the drug, allows no one to stand in the way. Thus starts the heart-pounding nightmare that befalls the doctor and his family and fellow researchers. If you like medical thrillers, this could be for you. |
| Shannon |
| Stalking Susan by Julie Kramer |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Riley is a news anchor for channel 3 in Minneapolis, MN and gets wind of a story about missing women all named Susan, who happened to disappear on the same day, only years apart. But when she brings it to the public via TV, that knowledge could be very dangerous for her. STALKING SUSAN is a riveting story, a great debut, and full of lots of interesting information about the TV news business. |
| Ginny Lazar |
| The Door to December by Dean Koontz |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
I've not read any of Koontz' books before, but a friend gave me a number of them. This was ok, but the fact that I got them for free was good. I wouldn't buy it. |
| Jan Anderson |
| Three Cups of Tea by Greg Mortenson |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A mountain climber returns to a village in Pakistan to build a school for Muslim girls and ends up building many more in Pakistan and Afghanistan. |
| Lu in Philadelphia |
| Skeletons at the Feast by Chris Bohjalian |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This drama is set in 1945 as World War II is coming to an end. Bohjalian skillfully portrays the reality of the tragedy, pain and heartache of war. Too sad to be enjoyable? Not the case. It is a wonderfully haunting piece of historical fiction to be highly recommended. Anna Emmerich is an aristocratic eighteen year old who is journeying west across the Third Reich to the safety of the American and British lines. Along with her family, Anna's traveling companions include Uri, a Jew who has jumped off a train headed for Auschwitz, and Callum, a Scottish prisoner of war who becomes Anna's lover. This novel speaks not only of the ravages of war, but also of the loyalty of friendships, the devotion of family, and the bonds of love. It's Chris Bohjalian's finest work yet. |
| Jan Anderson |
| Women of the Silk by Gail Tsukiyama |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Great book about Chinese silk workers in the 1920s and '30s. |
| Emily |
| Maid of Heaven by Ben D. Kennedy |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Really beautiful epic poem about that life of Joan of Arc that not only relates her life story but brings her alive in a way the helps you understand why she deserves to be called a saint. |
| Ginny Lazar |
| Murder in Mesopotamia by Agatha Christie |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Christie is one of my favorite authors and this is one that I'd not read before. A wonderful read from a mystery master! |
| T. Thomas |
| The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Wonderful book! I intend to buy several copies to give as gifts. |
| Bonnie Gluhanich |
| A Single Thread by Marie Bostwick |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
A lovely novel about women, friendship and quilting. Interesting characters and believable plot. |
| Linda |
| Leota's Garden by Francine Rivers |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A hilarious and serious story of what we can learn from the elderly and reconciliation. Someone's actions can be deceiving until you know the truth. |
| Ginny Lazar |
| Dance With Me by Luanne Rice |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This is a nice light romantic read. I'd never read Rice before and I enjoyed it. |
| Ginny Lazar |
| The Edge of Winter by Luanne Rice |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
I learned a lot about shore birds as I enjoyed this light romantic read. |
| Jan Anderson |
| Babylon Rolling by Amanda Boyden |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Some bad language and morals are described in this book, but it's a very well-written story of people from several ethnic groups who live on the same street in Uptown New Orleans. |
| Shannon |
| Cold Pursuit by Carla Neggers |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
I'm currently reading this book that I won to review for bookreporter.com. Jo Harper is a Secret Service agent who, upon being reprimanded, has gone back home to Black Falls, Vermont where she has run into her childhood love, Elijah Cameron, home after a stint in the military. When an ambassador is killed in Washington D.C, and then his stepdaughter goes missing in Black Falls, Jo and Elijah work together to find the missing teen. So far, so good. |
| Kellie ([email protected]) |
| Heart-Shaped Box by Joe Hill |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This was an exhausting read. It was so different from what I usually read and I am still trying to decide how I felt about it. For starters, I didn't particularly like the main character, Jude. He was a rich rock star who lived to the extreme, and with all his money and fame, was still unhappy. He is living with Georgia (Maryanne) a girl he met in NY in a strip bar. One day, his assistant tells him about a ghost for sale on the internet and he immediately wants to buy it. Just who the ghost turns out to be is a bit far fetched. Once he receives the ghost, it haunts him. And the story takes you from various stages of his attempt to escape from this ghost. Maryanne is with him through the whole. The book is scary and full of action. I found it choppy sometimes and there are holes in the plot. It was tiring to read because the characters seemed like they were constantly fighting ghosts in present time or in their dreams. Sometimes, I wasn't exactly sure what phase of consciousness they were in. I guess the book was OK. It kept my interest; however, I thought it could have flowed a bit better. |
| Jan Anderson |
| The Year of Magical Thinking by Joan Didion |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
An affecting recollection of the first year after the author's husband's sudden death. |
| MJB |
| The Beach House by Sally John |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is a story about 4 friends from college who, 12 years later, meet for a week holiday in Southern California. At first they seem like they have it all, but after, they all open up to each other about the problems in their lives. A very enjoyable, enlightening read. |
| T. Thomas |
| Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I would actually give it a 4.5. It's a wonderful book that sucked me right in and I am looking forward to the sequel. |
| Jessica |
| Home by Marilynne Robinson |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Picked up a copy of this from my local library as soon as I saw it was nominated for the National Book Award. So far, so good. I'm about halfway through and loving every page --- the language is just lovely. |
| Angela Satalino |
| Midwives by Chris Bohjalian |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I'm halfway through and cannot put this book down. I ache with the narrator's every thought. It's amazing how insightful he is in getting inside the head of a girl. |
| Sandy |
| A Prisoner of Birth by Jeffrey Archer |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Danny Cartwright and Spencer Craig never should have met. One evening, Danny takes his girlfriend up to the West End to celebrate their engagement. A few hours later, Danny is arrested for murder and later sentenced to 22 years in prison, thanks to testimony from Spencer Craig. Danny spends the next few years in prison while Spencer Craig's career skyrockets. All the while, he plans for the day he can exact his revenge. I loved every page of this book and can't wait to read another by Jeffrey Archer. |
| Readingrat |
| The Secret History by Donna Tartt |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
The characters are all throwbacks to an earlier era (I originally thought the novel was taking place in the seventies until references to the first Gulf War placed the story somewhere in the early nineties). There are a few scenes that do little to advance the plot or develop the characters and just make the book that much longer, but overall this is a well-written and interesting study on how a select group of people react to events of extreme stress. |
| Genie |
| Pyramids by Terry Pratchett |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Teppic is next in line to become king of Djelibeeybi. It's thought that the chance of his actually inheriting the throne was slim to none; after all, his father is a god. Because of this, it is decided that he must be trained in a profession. So Teppic is sent to the Assassins school in Ankh-Morpork, where he passes his final exam with flying colors. Right after graduation, he is notified of his father's untimely and unexpected death and forced to go home to take over the kingdom. Teppic has no idea what a pharaoh is supposed to do, which causes him a great deal of problems. At the insistence of the resident priest, he agrees to order the building of a pyramid to end all pyramids in honor of his father. This building process sets off a series of events no one has ever foreseen, not to mention an introduction to sacred crocodiles, marching mummies, mad priests and a headstrong handmaiden. This zany tale will put a completely new idea as to how and why the Egyptian pyramids came to be built. |
| Lesa |
| Teeth of the Tiger by Tom Clancy |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
Just started, but so far it's pretty bad. And I'm a big Clancy fan, so that's saying something. |
| Kaye |
| Sweet Poison by Ellen Hart |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Ms. Hart was most generous in sending me an early copy of her newest book, SWEET POISON, sixteenth in the popular Jane Lawless series and for that, I profusely thank her. SWEET POISON is available in bookstores Nov. 11th. Minneapolis restaurateur Jane Lawless is helping out her father, Ray Lawless --- defense lawyer now gubernatorial candidate --- at his campaign headquarters when she learns his plane had to make an emergency landing. Jane is frantic until she finally gets to talk to him. Although she has a feeling that he is holding something back, she is just relieved he is okay. Early on, Hart cleverly sets the stage for suspense. At the outset, the reader is introduced to a host of characters, some who had previous dealings with Ray when he was a defense attorney, a lot of whom are not happy with the amount of felons he got off with light sentences. One of the campaign volunteers is murdered in similarly eerie circumstances as the crime allegedly committed by one Corey Hodge nine years previously. Coincidentally, Ray Lawless was his attorney and got him off with what many thought a too-light sentence. While Jane is busy with her successful restaurant, she still finds time to look into the murder along with her P.I. friend, Nolan, and long time friend ,Cordelia. Along with the murder investigation are several gay romantic subplots. When past lovers show up, the story line deepens and makes for more complexity. Hart does such a wonderful job of characterization, the reader feels the anguish of the lovers as they try to resolve many relationship issues making it easy to empathize with them. With insightful dialogue and witty repartee, the reader gets a good feel for the characters' personalities, their self doubts and even doubts about their respective partners. Not all is as it seems. These richly portrayed subplots not only enhance the mystery, but they are good stories in themselves. When Jane's girlfriend , Kenzie, is attacked in the same way as the murder victim, the motives now are numerous. Was the murder politically motivated, or was it jealousy with a little revengeful obsession thrown in? Hart writes a really tight plot, carefully crafted with a lot of red herrings, clues and teeming with motives. The story is well paced with a good progression towards the very surprising denouement. The characters are plausible and seem to come alive with every page. There are so many elements to this story along with a multi twists and turns mystery, the reader will be enthralled until the end. I defy the reader to guess "whodunnit". I think this is one of Hart's more edgier mysteries. A lot of series seem to become stale after a few books, but not so with Hart. In fact, she just keeps getting better and better. If you have not read any of the previous Jane Lawless series, this is a stand-alone mystery but after you read this one, you will definitely want to go back and read more. Ellen Hart is also the author of the enjoyable Sophie Greenway series. Highly recommended. |
| Lesa |
| Red Rabbit by Tom Clancy |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I've read some pretty bad reviews of this one, but I really liked it. It's pretty much a straight-out Cold War spy story, starring a young Jack Ryan along with Ed and Mary Pat Foley. |
| Lesa |
| Marathoning for Mortals by John Bingham |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This book is good for anyone who is interested in running or walking a marathon or half-marathon. It's made for people who are less than world-class athletes but still serious about running/walking. |
| Debbie ([email protected]) |
| The Concrete Blonde by Michael Connelly |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
A Harry Bosch mystery set in L A, complete with the ladies of the night being killed and the lone wolf, Harry, going to the rescue. Harry kills the Dollmaker, but copycat killings happen. This new killer is labeled The Follower, and he is part of those in the know. Harry thinks he knows the new killer, but he picks the wrong horse twice, will he strike out? Connelly is a fabulous storyteller and Harry is a likable character. |
| Susan |
| Rough Weather by Robert B. Parker |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Robert parker has his formula down, and yet his stroies are enjoyable, if at times, predictable. Spencer and Hawk team up to find a kidnapper who hasn't requested a ransom. The kidnapper is one of Spencer's old nemeses. Snappy dialogue throughout makes Parker enjoyable. |
| Pam John ([email protected]) |
| Necessary Heartbreak by M. J. Sullivan |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
The story gripped me from the beginning. I couldn't wait to pick it up again. I will wait anxiously for the second of the trilogy. |
| Fran |
| So B. It by Sarah Weeks |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
An endearing young adult novel depicting the life of a young girl who sets out on a journey to find her identity and answer questions about her unconventional family. I enjoyed the characters in this novel. |
| Judy |
| Man in the Dark by Paul Auster |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This had gotten some rave reviews, but I'm at a loss as to how to explain it without telling you the entire book (it's only 180 pages). 72-year-old August Brill is recuperating at his daughter's home. His life has had ups and downs and as he lies in bed he creates a parallel world, one in which America is not at war with Iraq nor has 9/11 occurred...but America is at war with itself and one of his characters must kill August to end the war. In the real world, August talks with his daughter, they both have to revisit the unsettling death of the daughter's fiancée. It does make one think, but my thinking was disjointed and disappointed. |
| Chris B. |
| Plain Truth by Jodi Picoult |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Part mystery, part love story, and a good look into Amish life. |
| Christy H. |
| Deadly Harvest by Heather Graham |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This second installment in the Flynn Bothers Trilogy takes place in Salem, Massachusetts and is brother Jeremy's story. Fast paced, action packed and filled with suspense, this book will have you guessing who the real killer is out of the plethora of likely suspects. I always enjoy Ms. Graham's paranormal romances and this one did not disappoint. I already have the next book, DEADLY GIFT pre-ordered and I'm looking forward to reading brother Zachary's story. |
| Jane Malinowski |
| The Courtesan's Daughter by Claudia Dain |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
The title character desires marriage in regency England. She is very young and naive and is looking for the adoration that her mother, once a famous courtesan, has. When her mother arranges a marriage for her, she vascillates between wanting him and not, throughout the entire book. |
| Emry |
| The Year of Fog by Michelle Richmond |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Well-written and fascinating story of what happens to a relationship and the individuals in the relationship when a child goes missing. |
| J.P. Feingold |
| Vital Signs by Robin Cook |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
A medical thriller based on greed and in vitro fertilization that travels most of the way around the world. The hero is an infertile female MD who notices strange things happening at the clinic where she is treated and wants to know why. Cook gets kudos for having an ending that is not obvious, but the medical jargon is pretty deep. |
| Tammy |
| Elissa's Quest by Erica Verrillo |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I loved this book! Most girls in fantasies are wimps, but not Elissa. She is smart, brave and not afraid to speak her mind. Her donkey, Gertrude, isn't afraid to speak her mind either. The book is funny, exciting, and has great characters (especially Ralph the camel.) It's also got a prophecy, and a lot of hidden mysteries to figure out. I'd recommend it to anybody. |
| Ellen |
| The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Annie Barrows and Mary Anne Schaffer |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I really enjoyed it; it is plausible to be historical fiction |
| Chris B. |
| The Kalahari Typing School For Men by Alexander McCall Smith |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This fourth book in the series starts off a little slow, but is just as charming in the end as the others. |
| Myrna Pennisi |
| Bridge of Sighs by Richard Russo |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is a wonderful book about friendship, youth, family, love, and the effects our earlier experiences with them have on our adult lives. |
| Marion Miller ([email protected]) |
| The Tender Bar by J.R. Moehringer |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This was a very good memoir. It is a "coming of age" story about a young boy who finds his father figures at the local bar. Each character adds something to his life as they become part of his family. |
| Bonnie |
| Matters of Faith by Kristy Kiernan |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Excellent novel about family relationships and beliefs. |
| Bonnie |
| Stealing Buddha's Dinner by Bich Nguyen |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Culture clash as a young Vietnamese girl grows up in the midwest. Funny, honest and altogether entertaining. |
| Bonnie |
| The Night Gardener by George Pelecanos |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Workmanlike mystery. I liked it when I read it a few weeks ago, but can't really remember much about it now, which is not a good sign. |
| Chris B. |
| Hannah's Dream by Diane Hammond |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Hannah the elephant has been living at the same zoo by herself for 41 years, and has had the same trainer, Samson Brown, who has vowed not to retire until a suitable trainer has been hired. A suitable trainer is hired, just as the new director of the zoo begins an aggressive campaign to revive the zoo and clamp down on her staff. You'll fall in love with Hannah, and the quirky characters in this book, plus a pig named Miles. |
| Ivy ([email protected]) |
| Mudbound by Sheridan Hay |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A beautifully written story about relationships in the deep south in during a time when folks were supposed to "know their place." Mudbound is about secrets, pride and wrongful injustices, personal and public made right. |
| Kaye |
| The Street of a Thousand Blossoms by Gail Tsukiyama |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
One of the best written books I have read this year. The story is set in Japan and covers several families over a period of 30 years. Tsukiyama takes the reader on an emotional journey through the triumphs and heartbreaks of two brothers and their families. Wonderfully portrayed characters and a vivid plot make this sure to engage the reader form the first page to the last. Highly recommended. |
| Nooria Kanishka |
| Into The Shadows Into The light by Sayed H. Rohani |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
THE SHADOWS, INTO THE LIGHT, written by Sayed H. Rohani, published by PublishAmerica, a 259-page novel, narrated from first person's viewpoint, with its prolific and enlightening dialogues, its intriguing scenes, its unique narrative, which gives the book a touch of ingenuity, and with its characters' fate and a barrage of other things, proves to be a treasured asset in our literature. The book opens in the summer of 1980, marking the climactic phase of Russian invasion of Afghanistan. The opening scene is quite idyllic; ironically, there is a prodigious contrast between this serene scene and the scenes in the background characterizing the then political chimera threatening lives of the innocent people indiscriminately. The story develops in two ways: structurally, out of which the plot evolves; intellectually, in whose light an array of ideas, thoughts, moral and philosophical perspectives are discovered and discussed. The theme is a blend of both. Sarwar, a freedom-loving boy, who defies his cruel math teacher in school, under the influence of his family, his friends, his school, social and political crises, and in the wake of his personal vagary and vanity and naivety, unescorted by an established direction, lost in the maze of life, forfeits his real identity, following his own desires, no matter how destructive and corrupt. such people as Sarwar, whose unfettered desires are not fully fulfilled, are on their toes to grasp at every single opportunity to gratify their aspirations. Accordingly, for Sarwar politics is the right medium to handle himself with power and to fulfill his ungratified ambitions. He tries to make sexual advances towards Zulfa, who, as a child, was already a prey to him, and now who is seeking his help to know the whereabouts of her father. To enjoy the popularity of politburo, he commits several murders to be initiated into it. But, to his surprise, his misdeeds don't pay, and when his political party is overpowered by the political opponents, he, accompanied by his accomplices, who are deceived by him, leaves the country with a bag of loot to enjoy his life abroad. He spares nothing, no matter how macabre, to attain his illicit goals. For his personal gratification, he spares the most precious things of his life--wife, children, family, friends, country, faith. He marries a woman here, while his previous wife dies of neglect there on the very night when his wedding in progress. He thinks his only mission in this world is to enjoy life and to spare himself, and beyond that all is vanity and vagary. Using his loot, he lives in luxury in New York. His wife, Laila, who cannot tolerate his transgressions, divorces him and takes charge of her children. Sarwar, at last, loses his wife, children, friends, and relatives, lives lavishly, taking the prostitutes to his bosom, trying to enjoy life to the brim until he succumbs to his epicurean nemesis. Sarwar deceives his friends, Ali, the narrator, and Nader, leaving them astray and puzzled halfway in London. Influenced by Sarwar and his own unbridled emotions, Ali undergoes a good number of sexual experiences so that his conscience is clouded, his virtue eclipsed, his prudence marred. He also follows his nemesis, which is quite different from that of Sarwar; the former's nemesis proves to be ephemeral, the latter's unending. Ali in a vision, limpid, angelic, prophetic, entertains a spiritual experience reifying a tremendous trial, out of which he successfully comes out. Consequently, he undergoes a dramatic transformation. He regrets his sinful past, asking for forgiveness. His prayers are granted, his sins liquidated, his wrongs redressed. and he appears to be purified. As a result, he is enlightened with such knowledge, understanding, and prescience that he can conjure up his future. Similarly, Nader's avaricious desire to be rich leaves him in the lurch. His destiny resembles that of Ali, rather than Sarwar's. Salem, a student, betrothed to Zulfa, who proves to be the light of the novel, enjoins the people to be good, fair, and virtuous. He is a determined young man guarded against all kinds of temptations of life. Both he and his fiance have suffered in the hands of barbarians. Their destinies seems to be matchable, and they appear to be a perfect match. Intellectually, INTO THE SHADOWS, INTO THE LIGHT concerns itself with prolific, philosophic, and erudite discussions. It tackles the problem of predestination ingeniously. It elaborates what transpires that the criminals are tempted to commit crimes, that how the unbridled desires are provoked to create havoc in the mind of human beings, that how conflicts are burgeoned among so called spiritual, mental, and biological phenomena, how harmony is created among them, and furthermore, how the problem of good and evil is defined and identified. Salem, in the aftermath of Sarwar's misdeeds, rises the big question, "What's wrong with Sarwar and such like individuals, and where is the cure?" He concludes that family, school, education, knowledge, and morality are the right approaches and means to edify the people and to improve and cultivate their character. Nevertheless, he assumes that they cannot be significant, effective, and reliable unless they are based on a reliable foundation of truth, God. Further, he believes that spirituality is the key solution for crimes, and that again, morality, spirituality, conscience, good, absolute justice, truth, virtue and other abstract qualities only and only make sense in the wake of God; otherwise, talking about those qualities are just like talking about wells, streams, lakes, rivulets, rivers, seas, and oceans void of water, or a drum without sound. Furthermore, he argues that to be moral, to be just, and to do good are not simply choices to adopt or to drop, but they are duties and obligation that must be practiced. Thus morality takes momentum. The way this idea has been elaborated is so compelling and well-founded that nobody can deny its truth. In the light of all this, the story develops both structurally and intellectually, and its theme takes shape both internally and externally from the beginning to the end. |
| Kay |
| Breaking Dawn by Stephenie Meyer |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
The last book in the Twilight Saga is a large one at over 750 pages, and it is every bit as good as the blockbuster first one!! I highly recommend this series to both adults and young adults. It's amazing to watch young people devour this book!! |
| Linda |
| Takeover by Lisa Black |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Good story with suspense. Plausibility in first half of book a little implausible! |
| Marsha |
| The Bone Vault by Linda Fairstein |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This Assistant DA Alexandra Cooper, sends us ino the bowels of the Metropolitan Museum and the Natural History Museum and details the hundreds of artifacts stored underground in both of these renowned museums. In trying to find the murderer of a former museum worker, we are introduced to the hundreds of workers who toil behind the scenes. Museum lovers with revel in the details of the backgrounds of these types of buildings. |
| CC |
| People of theBook by Geraldine Brooks |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I loved this book! It follows a sacred book through centuries and shows the people involved with it. |
| Judy O. |
| Foreign Body by Robin Cook |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
It has been several years since I have read a Robin Cook novel, so I was delightfully surprised by how good this one was. Jennifer Hernandez takes a trip to India after finding out that her grandmother has died suddenly in a hospital after having knee replacement surgery. Jennifer is a medical student, so she is pretty well-informed about medical procedures. She knows that her grandmother's death was murder, so she sets about proving it. In the meantime, two other deaths occur in the same fashion. This is an exciting page turner that takes you to India and introduces you to the city of New Delphi. Great book! |
| RitaB |
| Olive Kitteridge by Elizabeth Strout |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I enjoyed this book of short stories about various residents in coastal Maine. The characters are middle-aged to seniors and their lives are normal, everyday lives, including sadness, grief, and quiet content. These are sturdy people, not drama queens who go on kicking and flailing. They accept, do what they have to do and go on. |
| Fran |
| Merle's Door by Ted Kerasote |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Ted Kerasote meets Merle, a lab/golden mix, in the Utah desert and his life is never the same. You will laugh with them, cry with them and cheer them along as they celebrate the most unique bond ever --- the bond between a man and his dog. This story has something to offer everyone who reads it. Any dog owner will find something to relate to within these pages. |
| Readingrat |
| Circus of the Damned by Laurell K. Hamilton |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I really enjoyed the action in this, along with local references to St. Louis, but I was disappointed by the weak ending. |
| Cindy from CA |
| Run by Ann Patchett |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Loved this story! Great characters! An accident during a New England snowstorm unites a father and his adopted sons. The story deals with race, class, and generations. This author also wrote BEL CANTO, another excellent book. |
| Rita C ([email protected]) |
| Queen Noor by Queen Noor |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
An autobiography by Lisa Halaby, a lady of Swedish American-Arabic ancestory, who became the Queen of Jordan. It tells of her life journey, and her love for her husband King Hussein, and her love for the Jordanian people. It provided excellent insight into Middle Eastern culture. |
| NMc |
| The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao by Junot Diaz |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Great writing and vivid characters! Can't put it down. |
| NMc |
| Dairy Queen by Catherine Gilbert Murdock |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I really like YA books! They're fun to read "in between" my more serious book club reads. |
| Vicki |
| Dewey by Vicki Myron |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I am a cat lover, and I absolutely loved this book. I feel for Dewey, and the librarian too. I highly recommend this book to any animal lover, especially cats! Be ready, it is one to read with a box of tissues close by, but not just for any sad parts. Some places had me in tears with laughter! |
| Anne |
| After the Fire by Robin Gaby Fisher |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
In January, 2000, two students at Seton Hall in New Jersey set a fire as a prank in a freshman dormitory. Three students were killed and 58 injured. This is the incredible story of two of the survivors, so badly burned no one thought they would live. They were roommates and friends before the fire, and became lifelines to each other afterwards. A heart-warming story. |
| Paula |
| Silent in the Grave by Deanna Raybourn |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Not your typical Victorian era mystery, or first book from an author. I was hooked at the first couple of sentences. "To say that I met Nicholas Brisbane over my husband's dead body is not entirely accurate. Edward, it should be noted, was still twitching upon the floor." The characters are unique and the writing, as noted above, has wit. I've already picked up Ms. Raybourn's second novel. |
| Audrey Anderson |
| Wolf Captured by Jane Lindskold |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Really good fantasy series. The heroine has been raised by "intelligent" wolves. Set in ancient times, she becomes a member of the royal household and gets herself and her wolf friend involved in their intrigues. |
| Shelley |
| Blood Lite by Edited by Kevin J. Anderson |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A collection of short stories by the best of "stand-out horror stars"... these people make you laugh hysterically one minute and then have you totally creeped out and scared in the next mini second. They are that good. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves the genre of horror mixed in with a bit of comedy (because really... that is the only why I can swallow it!) |
| Shelley |
| Blonde by Joyce Carol Oates |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is an older book by one of the best female writers of our generation. Joyce Carol Oates has taken the life and times of Norma Jean Baker and enabled "her" to tell us how she became Marilyn Monroe. It is always fascinating to see how she has imagined the ways the known facts of her life would play out against all of the unknown. It seems as if a considerable amount of research has been done for the book and I have found it hard to put it down. Again, as with all of Joyce Carol Oates's books, her characters always have depth and feeling. I would definitely recommend this one for a book club. |
| Linda Denisen |
| The Abducted Heiress by Clair Thornton |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Enough to keep me intrested, but this book is by no means my favorite. |
| myrna |
| Testimony by Anita Shreve |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
An event involving the taping of several students at a Vermont preparatory school engaging in sexual acts has dire consequences for at least a dozen people who tell their story in alternating chapters. This is Anita Shreve at her best. |
| Julianne Perretta |
| Forever Odd by Dean Koontz |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
The second installment of the Odd Thomas series. Not as good as the first, but the ending makes the entire read worth it. Odd Thomas is a short-order cook currently on hiatus, who communicates with ghosts. They don't talk, but they seek Odd out to assist in what they have left undone in this lifetime. In FOREVER ODD, Thomas must pull together everything he has to save a friend and combat against an enemy set on using his gift for their own good. |
| Audrey Anderson |
| Obsidian Butterfly by Laurell K. Hamilton |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Butt-kicking heroin who loves and hates monsters. I started the first in the series and haven't been disappointed yet. |
| Kathy |
| Step on a Crack by James Patterson |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This seems almost too predictable; the suspense is there, as usual for Patterson, but it just didn't hold my interest as most of his novels do! |
| Carol ([email protected]) |
| And Only to Deceive by Tasha Alexander |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
It is exciting to find a new mystery author. This book combines historical fiction (placed in Victorian England) with a bit of classical literature and wrapped up as a whodunit. Looking forward to her next mystery with the same protagonist. |
| Kellie ([email protected]) |
| Welcome to the World, Baby Girl! by Fannie Flagg |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I thought this was going to be another really happy southern tale similar to THE REDBIRD CHRISTMAS. I pictured a story about a young girl who was born into a picture-perfect southern town and any conflict in her life was resolved with a fairy tale ending. Very Hollywood. Well, I was pleasantly surprised that this wasn't at all like a fairy tale. This was a very enjoyable story. Dena is a young woman who grew up in the 50's. The memories of her childhood revolve around her mother. She was all she had. Her mother was very beautiful but she seemed haunted by secrets and Dena was afraid to press her mother about them. In her 30's Dena has surpressed a lot of her childhood as she becomes a successful TV reporter. (This reminds me of Barbara Walters's career). Anyway, hard as she tries to forget her past, subconsciously she is tormented by it and starts suffering physically from it with a bleeding ulcer. Her hometown, Elmwood Springs, Missouri, still has distant relatives who try to keep Dena in their lives, even if it is only in their hearts. Dena has not been back to Elmwood Springs since she was very young and has no desire to bond with people she hardly knows. But when Dena has a brush with death, she ends up in Elmood Springs with her family, who help her recuperate. This visit is the catalyst that opens up the door to memories that begin to become more vivid and send Dena in search of the truth about her past. I as really surprised at all the secrets revealed at the end and I was really impressed with Ms. Flag's story telling. |
| Audrey Anderson |
| Silverwing by Kenneth Oppel |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is a book about a bat --- like THE SECRET OF NUMHhe Secret of Nimh is a book about rats. Loved it. |
| Audrey Anderson |
| Aunt Dimity's Death by Nancy Atherton |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
I gave it a 3 only because I did finish it, but will not continue reading the series. The protagonist is supposed to be fiercely independent, but behaves like a spoiled brat, in my opinion. |
| Barbara S |
| Hide and Seek by Fern Michaels |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Just finished reading HIDE AND SEEK, part of the Sisterhood series. The Sisterhood, as usual, finds a way to get vengeance on their current chosen evildoer. I love this series and this story kept me entertained --- I finished the book in a day and a half. The ending was a little disappointing, but a good read anyway, especially if you are a fan of Fern Michaels's books. |
| Audrey Anderson |
| The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency by Alexander McCall Smith |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I loved this feisty, sensible and clever gal. She solves crimes and problems in an "out of the box' way. Interesting bits of cultural information also. I am looking forward to the next book. |
| Audrey Anderson |
| All Together Dead by Charlain Harris |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
The main character is kind of like Stephanie Plum gone paranormal. It is the vampire series that started the "True Blood" HBO series. There is a little tongue-in-cheek humor here and there. I blazed through the series, loaned it to my mother-in-law and she did the same thing. |
| Debbie |
| The Lace Reader by Brunonia Barry |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This book mixes current Salem, Massachusetts, with snippets from the infamous witchcraft trials, and all seen through the eyes of Towner/ Sophya, who may or may not be telling the truth at any given moment. The characters are interesting and the plot has some unexpected twists --- it was a very enjoyable book to read! |
| Readingrat |
| Christine Falls by Benjamin Black |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This book actually works better as a character-driven novel than a mystery/thriller. |
| Jean Mess |
| Tribute by Nora Roberts |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is a great book that keeps you guessing. You want to finish it, but you also hate for it to be over. The hero is too good to be true and the heroine is such an interesting person. |
| Jeannie ([email protected]) |
| The Marriage Game by Fern Michaels |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A recently divorced young woman finds out she is one of 11 ex-wives, and goes to the extreme to make her ex-husband pay. In the end, she finds she has the strength and ability to do anything. |
| Jeannie ([email protected]) |
| Hard Truth by Mariah Stewart |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I love a good mystery, and this one is great. A young woman's friend disappears, and now, years later --- when she returns home to settle her parents' estate --- bodies are being found on a section of the land that has already been sold. |
| Joanne Latva |
| The Guerrnsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
In January of 1946, London is emerging from the second World War. Through letters, Juliet learns about the occupation of the Guernsey island by the Germans; thus an informative correspondence takes place. So Juliet, a writer, goes there and it changes her life forever. |
| Debbie ([email protected]) |
| The Three Miss Margarets by Louise Shaffer |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
A tale of secrets kept by three Southern women, and the repercussions. A story about the changing tide of the South. |
| LINDA B |
| Demon's Hunger by Eve Silver |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Dr. Vivien Cairn studied bones for a living and occasionally helped during forensics cases; but lately, she's lost hours at a time, while never remembering what she did, and felt as if she were being watched. Immortal sorcerer Dain Hawkins has lived for thousands of years since the death of his human wife and daughter at a demon's claws, and has since vowed to kill every demon he found, protect the realm between human and demon's world, and live his life alone with never loving another. |
| Cindy in CA |
| I, Mona Lisa by Jeanne Kalogridis |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A fictional story that introduces the reader to Mona Lisa. The tale begins with an assassination in the Duomo and from there, the author does a great job developing the characters (including young Leonardo De Vinci and Michelangelo). Very enjoyable story. |
| Ruby ([email protected]) |
| Cast of Characters by Max Lucado |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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A wondeful look into the Bible's more memorable characters. |
| Eileen Quinn Knight |
| The Secret Papers of Madame Olivetti by Annie Vanderbilt |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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This is a great book for people who love books. In this witty novel, Madame Olivetti tells of all her past loves. She travels to Southern France in order to do so. It is a very different place than Idaho! The 'secret papers' are a joy to read. |
| Ruby ([email protected]) |
| For Young Men Only by Jeff Feldhahn, Eric Rice, and Shaunti Feldhahn |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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Do you have an up-and-coming teenage boy in your life, who has no idea what women his age want, and even his father is at a blank and you are in desperate need of guidance?! There is help, and the answer lies in this book. When I began to read this, I could only nod my head at the wonderful insight from these writers. From everything to what a girl sees in a guy to the dreaded whether a girl wants to 'do it' is in this book and is handled beautifully. Now, for even you older men, it can be an eye opener as well. My husband read it, mostly because I asked him, and even he couldn't believe some of the things her read. Even casting an eye to me and saying 'Is that Really how you all think?" and then"Wish this was out when I was younger." I have a young boy who is all of two, but believe me, this will be waiting for him when he gets older. It will be a mandatory read before he begins dating and a reference when there are things he needs help understanding. If you are a young man and are in the dating scene or a mom with a son heading there, you need to read this book. And for all you others out there, the series has FOR WOMEN ONLY, FOR YOUNG WOMEN ONLY, and FOR MEN ONLY. I am buying all of them to add to my shelf. |
| Phyllis |
| The Art of Racing In The Rain by Garth Stein |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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I fell in love with Enzo. The book, written from Enzo's viewpoint, is heartwarming and very well written. |
| Peggy Kincaid ([email protected]) |
| Exposed by Alex Kava |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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I love Maggie O'Dell stories and this one will keep you on the edge of your seat up to the end. Level 4 diseases, terrorists, and through it all is Maggie doing her job and stressing out about her love life too. Excellent mystery. |
| Jud Hanson |
| Suspicion of Vengance by Barbara Parker |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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This is an excellent entry in the series, of which I've read only a few. Gail Connor is asked by a friend to review the trial transcript and appeal work for a family member, who has been convicted of a brutal murder and sentenced to death. Gail dives in and soon realizes that there were irregularities in both the police investigation and the trial. When she asked about them, she is targeted by people who don't want the truth revealed. All in all, a great book that held my interest. |
| Fran |
| Sex and the Psychic Witch by Annette Blair |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
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I read approximately 145 pages of this novel before I realized that I didn't care what happened next. Although this author had good reviews, I just don't see what the hype was. I did not finish this book. |
| Peggy Kincaid ([email protected]) |
| Genesis of Shannara: The Gypsy Morph by Terry Brooks |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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I was looking forward to this final volume and wasn't sure if it would all come together. It does. This is adult fantasy and in a sense, perhaps not so much fantasy as a possible ending to our world. The pace is fast. All the old characters are there but there are going to be losses on both sides. The ending is perfect. Elves, knights, fairies and more, you'll love this tale. |
| Jud Hanson |
| Praying for Sleep by Jeffery Deaver |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
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I love Deaver's books but this one was a bust, in my opinion. The premise is that a psychiatric patient has escaped and is hunting the woman who testified against him at his murder trial. The book does start out strong, but begins to ramble about halfway through, and finally just turned too weird for me. |
| Pattie Berryhill ([email protected]) |
| Angel's Tip by James Lee Burke |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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The story of late night murders of women leaving from clubs in NYC. The MO is chopping their hair off. |
| Joy LaFortune |
| Sleep No More by Greg Iles |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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I only recently discovered Greg Iles and am systematically going through every one of his 16 novels [so far]. This is my 7th and it's just as exciting as the first. They are all different but similarly very well written. |
| D. Lohrding |
| Deadly Night by Heather Graham |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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This is the first in this trilogy. There is good suspense right from the start with a mix of ghosts and mystery, along with a murder or two. There's also a dangerous love relationship in the works. So far, it has all the right ingredients to make up a great book! |
| Cindy from Ms |
| the Wilde Women by Paula Wall |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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This book hooked me from the first paragraph. Paula Wall has an interesting way of writing about life that keeps your interest in what she will say next. The book is about two sisters from the wrong side of the tracks, their fights with each other, and the choices each makes. |
| Julie |
| The Eight by Katherine Neville |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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Very involved mystery going back and forth from the 18th century to the 20th century. It all has to do with finding a highly prized, mysterious chess set once belonging to Charlemagne and possessing frightening powers. |
| Janet |
| The Longest Trip Home by John Grogan |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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John Grogan is turning into one of the most exciting memoirists of our time. This book is just as compelling and sentimental as MARLEY & ME. A must read! |
| Fran |
| Haunted Houses USA by Delores Riccio and Joan Bingham |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
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This book takes the reader on a journey across the USA, with real life stories of hauntings. I enjoyed learning about the spirits, noises in the dark, and entities lurking among us. While reading this book, the reader is bound to question every little noise and house creak. It was a great Halloween read. I am fascinated by ghost stories, although I know I would probably have a panic attack if I encountered one in real life! The book includes addresses and tour schedules for those readers who would like to go and see for themselves. |
| Anita Nowak |
| Duma Key by Stephen King |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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I am not really a fan of Mr. King; however, I had read rave reviews of DUMA KEY. When I saw it on sale at my local library I bought it --- all 608 pages (hard cover). The first 450 pages were excellent. It was well written and the characters and situations were wonderful, and really kept my interest. Towards the end, strange things started to happen. I thought they were silly, and ruined the experience of my reading. When dead people started coming back to life and frogs started talking, I was very disappointed. I did finish the book, but can only recommend it to those who absolutely think Stephen King is the best. |
| Bonnie Capuano |
| The Captive Heart by Betrice Small |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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Just started reading it, and so far so good. I've never read any of her books before and I do like her style of writing. |
| Sue; Saratoga |
| Twilight by Stephenie Meyer |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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Even though this is "young adult" reading, I thoroughly enjoyed it. I read it in anticipation of the movie, which is coming soon. There are 4 books in total in thisTwilight series, which is a teen vampire love story. I read it in one day because I couldn't put it down. |
| Ray Palen ([email protected]) |
| The Midnight Man by Simon Clark |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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A fictional thriller featuring painter Van Gogh and his friend, Pastor Hux. Van Gogh, now living in France, suspects Hux has gone mad in London. Told from the perspective of 2 women close to each man --- the Jack the Ripper mystery is broached and the reason for Van Gogh's madness given a fictional premise. Very well done and for fans of horror, thriller or historical fiction. |
| Jim Kaplan ([email protected]) |
| The Same Man by David Lebedoff |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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A great book for our time. Despite obvious differences, Orwell and Waugh united to oppose some of the worst excesses of modernity: moral relativism, totalitarianism, hedonism, societies obsessed with youth, beauty, money and celebrity. |
| Danelle Drake ([email protected]) |
| Boy of "Greatness" by Dave Lawrie |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
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One of the hardest books you will ever read - but so worth it. Everybody should read this book --- this 85-year-old man makes you take a look at life as a soldier during World War II and it is one of the most moving things you will ever read. |
| Karen Haney |
| Sister's Choice by Emilie Richards |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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Just as Emilie Richards weaves her exquisite quilts, she has woven a story for everyone who loves family and especially anyone who has shared a special bond with a sister. Set in the gorgeous Shenandoah Valley, with its beautiful scenery and panoramic views, Kendra and Isaac Taylor are planning their dream house on land they own in this stunning mountain-bordered property. In what would seem to be a perfect life, Richards tells how this couple have been sadly left childless, even though they yearn for a family. Jamie Dunkirk, Kendra's younger sister, is in a much different situation. Due to the difference in their ages, as well as a period when Jamie had left and the two sisters were estranged for years, Kendra and Jamie have never really been close. Jamie has gone back to school and her goal is to make amends for years past and reunite with her sister. She is a single parent raising two daughters, Hannah and Alison, while also in graduate school working toward her degree in architecture. In fact, Jamie even designs the plans for Kendra and Isaac's dream home as a gift. Just prior to Christmas, Jamie comes to visit unexpectedly and gives Kendra and Isaac another gift. Jamie offers to be a gestational surrogate so that Kendra's perfect family dream can come true. She even tells them that while she and her daughters are living in the cabin on land near the building site, she can oversee things for them. Although apprehensive because of Jamie's past, Kendra accepts the offer. All would appear to be falling into place when handsome builder, Cash Rosslyn, enters the story. A relationship builds between Cash and Jamie, while Kendra closely monitors their activities, as she fears Jamie may suddenly revert to her old ways. However, Grace, Cash's grandmother, is very supportive of the relationship and her own special love story and talented quilting skills --- a signature in the Emilie Richards's Shenandoah series --- unites the three generations of women. Their bond is tested as Jamie faces a medical emergency that could tear their lives apart, and is faced with the most difficult decision of her life. The choice she must make is what brings this story to its dramatic conclusion! Each of Emilie Richards' books in the Shenandoah Album series has a title drawn from the name of a certain pattern of a quilt square. In Alice Walker's THE COLOR PURPLE, Sophia and Celie take fragments of torn clothes and curtains and piece them together, creating the "Sister's Choice" quilt square pattern. The strength of their relationship is comparable to that of the main characters in SISTER'S CHOICE. In the same style, stories related to other quilt patterns make up this series of excellent books. LOVER'S KNOT and ENDLESS CHAIN are just two of the charismatic stories from Emilie Richards. Fans of Jennifer Chiaverini's Elm Creek Quilt series, OR Debbie McComber will quickly have a new favorite author once you read this, or any of Emilie Richards' work. |
