December 19, 2008 - January 8, 2009
Last contest period's winners were Bill, Billie, Jerry, Leola andSharon, who each received a copy of BORN TO RUN by James Grippando and THE CHARLEMAGNE PURSUIT by Steve Berry.
| Sandra F. |
| Afterimage by Helen Humphreys |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A lovely story about an Irish maid in a very unusual English household. A lot of interesting plot lines. |
| LINDA B |
| In The Dark by P. G. Forte |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
1200-year-old Conrad, a vampire, promised Desert Rose that he would protect and raise their twins as she lay dying from a vicious attack. But he knew that human babies could never become vampires until they were turned. It was impossible, but one look at the babies and he knew that the impossible had happened! But how could he raise and keep them safe? |
| Dorothy |
| Crossroads by Belva Plain |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Two girls meet --- plain and shy Gwen is adopted and raised in the lap of luxury, and beautiful and outgoing Jewel is poor. Their lives soon intertwine as they both marry, but to different types of men. Gwen's husband is a hard-working electrician, and Jewel's is a successful businessman. This is not up to Belva Plain's usual works. I was disappointed. |
| Sandy |
| The Space Between Us by Thrity Umrigar |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A wonderful story of Sera and Bhima. Sera is an upper-middle-class Parsi housewife and Bhima is her servant. It is set in modern-day India and I could hardly put it down! |
| Sandra F. |
| A Thousand Suns by Alex Scarrow |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
A story connecting the end of World War II and the present day. I like the back and forth between the two time periods; however, the story is a bit predictable. |
| Marleen Davis ([email protected]) |
| The Given Day by Dennis Lehane |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Fabulous. I always enjoy Dennis's books, especially MYSTIC RIVER, but this one is really different. It's an historic novel about the Boston Police strike around 1910 or 20. It's gritty and powerful. It shows the story from the rich and powerful to the working man to the coloreds (as they called the blacks back then), describing how the women were threatened and how the police were used up with no benefits and made about 1/2 of what the garbage collectors made. It also had personal stories within the story, which were wonderful as well. I thoroughly enjoyed it, even if it was a very long book! |
| Sandra F. |
| Miss Zukas Shelves the Evidence by Jo Dereske |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
One of the more interesting mystery series that features a librarian. Well written. |
| Sandra F. |
| Still She Haunts Me by Katie Roiphe |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A fictional account of the relationship between Lewis Carroll and the child who inspired ALICE IN WONDERLAND. The content is a bit disturbing but this is a really well written book. |
| Sandra F. |
| Heat and Dust by Ruth Prawer Jhabvala |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This book of the British in India in 1923 is wonderful. It is the story of a British woman who "goes native" and lives with an Indian prince. The story shifts between 1923 and the present day and is a great read. This book was a Booker prize winner a number of years ago. |
| Sandra F. |
| Pig Island by Mo Hayder |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I was hooked on this book from page one. It has a wild and freaky plot and characters that you will never forget. I have two more of her books on my reading list and I can hardly wait to get to them. |
| Sandra F. |
| The Jasmine Trade by Denise Hamilton |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I think that this is a first book and it has some flaws, but it does present an examination of the "parachute kids" --- Asian kids who live in the US for their education while their parents spend most of their time in Asia. |
| Marsha |
| Dance of Death by Douglas Preston & Lincoln Child |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Continuing the escapades of Special Agent Pendergast, this is the best of the books. It is a fascinating tale of two brothers whose strange and demented past twists into a challenge that is relentless in its plot. |
| Susan ([email protected]) |
| 6 Rainier Drive by Debbie Macomber |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I am in the middle of reading a 9-book series by Debbie. She makes you get so involved with the characters you cant read the books fast enough to see what is going to happen. I feel like I know all of them and its almost like they live here in my small town. The series is called The Cedar Cove series and if you read them you wont be sorry. |
| leola |
| Gatsby's Girl by Caroline Preston |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
"Gatsby's Girl" adds more dimension to F. Scott Fitzgerald by allowing the reader to look at him through the eyes of his first love, Ginevra Perry-Granger. Through Ginevra's eyes we learn about F. Scott Fitzgerald's alcoholism and his life with Zelda. The book is also about the ups and downs of life during the Roaring Twenties. The book is fantastic. It's filled with obsession, insanity, undying love and regrets. To me, it's an unforgettable novel. Ginevra Perry-Granger's life seems just as important to social history as the life of F. Scott Fitzgerald. She becomes a courageous woman. She makes mistakes in her life, but she carries on. Please read this one. |
| Judy O. ([email protected]) |
| Isaac's Storm: A Man, a Time, and the Deadlies by Erik Larson |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
The deadliest hurricane in history happened in Galveston, Texas on September 8, 1900. Estimates of 8,000-10,000 people were killed. This is the story of that storm. Isaac Cline was the meteorologist in Galveston in 1900, but weather experts could not predict this hurricane as we can today. It is a fascinating story --- especially after Hurricane Ike hit the city in 2008. |
| Debbie ([email protected]) |
| Dewey: The Small-Town Library Cat Who Touched the by Vicki Myron |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
The story about Dewey is heartbreaking, but all the detail about Iowa bogs down the story. I fully understand that a cat is not just a pet, but an important aspect of life. Death is foreseen, but never easy to swallow. |
| Debbie ([email protected]) |
| A Walk in the Woods by Bill Bryson |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
I read this book for a book club. This is one man's story of his hike on the Appalachian Trail, which starts in Georgia and ends in Maine. This amazing walk contains many perils, and is not an easy feat. The reader is pounded with facts about the trail, the wild animals, the vegetation, and survival. An interesting read. |
| leola |
| Malice in Miniature: A Miniature Mystery by Margaret Grace |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
If you love cozies and dollhouses, you will love this book. There is a murder that is hard to solve. There is an endearing relationship between a grandmother and granddaughter. There is plenty about how the mind of a miniaturist works. Fun. |
| Sara M |
| Your Roots Are Showing by Elise Chidley |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Splendid and delightful! YOUR ROOTS ARE SHOWING by Elise Chidley is a perfect under-the-covers read. The main character, Lizzie, is an exhausted mother of twin toddlers. She inadvertently alienates her husband and finds herself starting life over (alone) from square one. Though she still is very much in love with her ex-husband, Lizzie is forced to make is best of it and re-build a life of her own. This book runs the gamut from humorous to heart breaking, to deliciously romantic. Lizzie is a heroine with spunk; if you are a mom or a wife, you'll just get her from the first page. Chidley relays the story with impressive ease which makes for a wonderful debut. I highly recommend this novel --- you simply can't ask for a more enjoyable read. |
| Ed Hahn ([email protected]) |
| The Limits of Power: The End of American Exceptio by Andrew J. Bacevich |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
For anyone who wants to understand how we --- the U.S. --- got into the mess we are in, this is a must-read short, pithy and understandable explanation. It rings so true, I got a crick in my neck from nodding my head so much. Written by a true conservative, ex-military officer and current Boston University professor, this book concisely explains how the actions of citizens, government and the military over the last 45 years have pushed the U.S into the position it finds itself in today. In the Chapter titled "The Crisis of Profligacy", Bacevich skewers Americans for surrendering their true freedom for the illusory freedom of materialism. He also shows how the need for both power and abundance has undermined people's ability to manage their finances and also undermined U.S. power. As he puts it at the end of the Chapter: "Long accustomed to thinking of the United States as a superpower, Americans have yet to realize that they have forfeited command of their own destiny. The reciprocal relationship between expansionism, abundance and freedom --- each reinforcing the other --- no longer exists. The reverse is true: Expansionism squanders American wealth and power while putting freedom at risk." In Chapter 2, "The Political Crisis" Bacevich decries the establishment of an Imperial Presidency. He faults Congress for willingly ceding authority to the Executive Branch, especially when it comes to National Security. All they seem to care about is getting re-elected. He also critiques the ideology of National Security and demonstrates how this ideology actually creates less security. All politicians and most Americans have accepted this ideology without question. It has given rise to a power elite in Washington that is more interested in protecting its turf than serving the American people. He is particularly critical of the Bush doctrine of preventive war and sees it as both morally and politically corrupt. He also effectively skewers the idea that it is a sacred mission of the U.S. to export freedom. The ideology of National Security as practiced by an elite of "Wise Men Without Wisdom" has led us into a situation where we are engaged in a "War Without End". As he points out at the end of the chapter: "The Wise Men...have repeatedly misconstrued and exaggerated existing threats, with perverse effects." "No doubt today's Wise Men see themselves as devoted patriots...Yet that's not good enough. Those...whose advice yields horrific consequences of the sort we have endured beginning on 9/11 and continuing ever since. They have forfeited any further claim to trust." In Chapter 3, "The Military Crisis", he documents how our military leaders have misused and misunderstood the power they have under their control. Politicians and military leaders have illusions about our ability to exercise our military power that lead them to expectations that are completely out of line with reality. He discusses the enduring nature of war and its cruel realities, that confound not only those who we choose to govern us but also the Generals who are charged with war operations. He is particularly harsh on the expertise and leadership of most of the military leaders who have risen to the top since the Vietnam War. He is particularly critical of the lack of strategic thinking on the part of those in charge. He points out that we don't need a bigger army but rather a focus on a more modest foreign policy so the soldiers are given tasks consistent with their capabilities. Supporting our troops is not affixing a plastic emblem on a vehicle bumper but rather reining in the illusions of grandeur of our political and military leaders. In his conclusion, Bacevich helps us realize that no matter who we elect as President the illusions and conditions we have created will continue. There is no easy fix. Promising to restore the status quo of power, abundance and exceptionalism will not give us the results we need to change things. We have created a condition of dependence on imported goods, imported oil, and credit. This is not a good thing. We have somehow built a society based on material expectations where wants have become needs and needs have become rights. Somehow we must accept that there are limits, limits to our power, to our financial strength and limits to seeing Americans as exceptional. It's time for some humility and reality. As Reinhold Niebuhr once wrote, "To the end of history, social orders will probably destroy themselves in an effort to prove they are indestructible". Bacevich closes by pointing out that "Clinging doggedly to the conviction that the rules to which other nations must submit don't apply, Americans appear determined to affirm Niebuhr's axiom of willful self-destruction." |
| Crystal Blackburn |
| Masterpieces in Minature: The Detectives by Agatha Christie |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Short stories featuring Hercule Poirot, Miss Marple, Harley Quinn and Parker Pyne! |
| Linda H. ([email protected]) |
| Secrets by Jude Deveraux |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Cassie Madden was the only child of Margaret Madden, a woman driven to succeed at the expense of her daughter. While accompanying her mother at a conference, the twelve-year-old Cassie developed a huge crush on one of the security guards named Jefferson Ames. Years later, Cassie finagles a job as a nanny to Jeff's daughter. Cassie was still in love with Jeff but he only saw her for the nanny and housekeeper that she was. In trying to get his attention, Cassie found out that nothing was as it seemed. Was the retired movie star next door really retired or was she a government spy? Was the neighbor Roger an attorney and why was he on such a friendly basis with the reclusive movie star? A good story. |
| Anne |
| The Sense of Paper by Taylor Holden |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
An amazing novel that is gripping and fabulous. It also has excellent descriptions of the various locales. |
| Lyla D ([email protected]) |
| The Christmas Chronicles by Jeff Guinn |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is a trilogy of books. They are THE AUTOBIOGRAPHY OF SANTA CLAUS, HOW MRS. CLAUS SAVED CHRISTMAS, and THE GREAT SANTA SEARCH. The books are really an historical look at the myth of Santa Claus, starting with St. Nicholas's story, covering the history of Christmas around the world. Heartwarming, fun and perfect for family reading. They would lend themselves to being read aloud, but sadly, reading aloud in a family group has fallen by the wayside. Perfect for pre-teens, teens and adults. |
| Tanya |
| The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This was a good book. It has short chapters which makes it a quick read. The main character is fourteen and her mother is dead and she runs away from her father and really learns what family is all about. |
| Judy O. |
| A Walk Across America by Peter Jenkins |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Peter Jenkins, a young man from New York, had just graduated from college and didn't know what he wanted to do with his life. So, in October of 1973, he and his dog Cooper set out to walk across America. This is the story of their journey, which ended in New Orleans in April of 1975. Even though the book was written in 1979, it is timeless in its appeal. I just wondered repeatedly why he started this journey in October as he had to deal with many blizzards and extreme cold. I look forward to reading his next book, which finishes the trek across the USA. |
| Linda H. ([email protected]) |
| The Mercedes Coffin (Peter Decker & Rina Lazar by Faye Kellerman |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Lieutenant Peter Decker has been assigned a cold case involving a murder committed fifteen years ago. A wealthy benefactor had been befriended by the murder victim while she was in high school and he was a teacher. She has never forgotten his kindness and wants his murderer found and punished. If the LAPD can solve the case, she will reward them with several million dollars. She points out the similarities of the cold case to the recent murder of a music producer. While investigating the cold case, Decker finds several leads that tie the two cases together. While the suspects all state they did not commit the actual murder, all were aware of the tragedy that occurred that night. Who is the murderer? A good story. |
| Jud Hanson |
| Vulcan's Forge (Onyx Novel) by Jack Du Brul |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
If you love Clive Cussler, you will love VULCAN'S FORGE, the first in the Philip Mercer series. Enter Philip Mercer, formerly of the USGS. Hearing that the daughter of an old friend is in the hospital under armed guard, he goes to see her. What he doesn't know is that she is one cog in a much bigger plot surrounding a secession movement in Hawaii and the discovery of a mysterious new mineral forty years earlier, one which could provide an infinite source of power. Circumstances come to a head when Philip finds himself the final hope of the President to avoid a civil war to take Hawaii back by force. Readers won't be disappointed with this one. |
| Shyeyes |
| Christmas Sweater by Glenn Beck |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Written loosely about an event in the author's life when he was a boy of thirteen. Excellent story, well written, believable characters. You'll need a hankie! |
| T. Thomas |
| Year of Wonders by Geraldine Brooks |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Wonderful book. It was a fast read and I was sorry when it was over. |
| Marjorie Clark ([email protected]) |
| Oscar Wilde and a Death of No Importance by Gyles Brandreth |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Great fictional mystery sent in the 17th century written by a biographer with all the literary characters in the mix. Really enjoying this book --- recommended by a co-worker. |
| Linda H. ([email protected]) |
| The Night Villa by Carol Goodman |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Dr. Sophie Chase is a professor of classical studies at the University of Texas. When she is asked to join a group traveling to Italy to search for scrolls buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius, she eagerly agrees. A fellow professor who is also on the trip admits he is working with the FBI on their investigation of a cult and one of the members of the group is a part of this. Sophie's ex was also a member of this cult. When Sophie discovers her ex on a boat close to the villa where the group is staying, she wonders who among the group is also a member. Is the cult trying to steal the scrolls? Who is the traitor? |
| Marsha |
| Hot Mahogany by Stuart Woods |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This Stone Barrington novel delves into the trading of priceless antiques and the means some nouveau riche will undertake to possess such status symbols. |
| Heather Kath |
| The Good Earth by Pearl S. Buck |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
The best book I have read in a long time! |
| Pattie Berryhill ([email protected]) |
| The Other Side of Silence by Bill Pronzini |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Thriller that takes you to the beautiful, peaceful desert. You can feel the serenity while there. The thrilling part takes place in Las Vegas. Good read. Real characters. |
| Pattie Berryhill ([email protected]) |
| Rough Weather by Robert B. Parker |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Starts with a wedding on exclusive Tashtego Island near Boston. Story of the wealthy, lots of murders. Spencer and Susan have witty banter throughout the tale. |
| Bill |
| The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
The book is a perfect Christmas gift. I read articles about THE LAST LECTURE so I thought I knew Pausch's story but the brief book adds some depth to the sound bites. The book is quite inspiring and a very good read. |
| Valerie Lovato |
| Secrets of the Cube by Annie Gottlieb and Slobodan Pesic |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is a great discussion book for friends. |
| Kay Keller |
| Echo Burning (Jack Reacher) by Lee Child |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
There's nothing like a good Jack Reacher novel --- a new one or an old one! |
| Jud Hanson |
| Machiavelli Covenant by Allan Folsom |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Borrowing a page from Dan Brown's writing style, Folsom has created an intriguing and engaging novel that you won't want to put down. When a former lover dies under mysterious circumstances shortly after her husband and son perish in a plane crash, ex-LAPD detective Nicholas Marten suspects foul play. What he finds is a conspiracy that reaches across the world and across time, back to a document by Renaissance political thinker Niccolo Machiavelli known as THE PRINCE, a book that is essentially a blueprint for seizing and keeping power by any means necessary. With none other than the President and a French journalist as his allies, Marten attempts to stop a plot to commit genocide. Readers won't be disappointed with this thrill ride. |
| Jud Hanson |
| Buried at Sea by Paul Garrison |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
If you like adventure on the high seas, this book is a winner. When Jim signs on with Will, a wealthy venture capitalist as a personal trainer/crewman on his luxury yacht, little does he know what the future holds. When they first spot a boat following them at high speed, Will is vague about who might be following them, except to say that 'they' want him dead. Thus the chase begins, criss-crossing the Atlantic and finally heading south toward Antarctica. The book is a thrill ride from start to finish . |
| Marsha |
| The Book of Lies by Brad Meltzer |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
Rather disappointing! Man vs. Superman, Fathers vs. Sons, Lies vs. Truth. Religious Fanatics. Too much and too complicated. |
| Judy Stein |
| Middle of Nowhere by Ridley Pearson |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Once again, Lou Bodlt, Pearson's moral compass, finds himself in situations where his integrity is tested. This time, the bad guys are his fellow Seatlle cops. Boldt's life is threatened not only by the ruthless policemen. There's a psycho killer bent on punishing Boldt, who is also bedeviled by his continuing attraction to Lt. Daphne Matthews. Plot lines come together in an electrifying showdown. |
| Ilene Harris |
| The Good Thief by Hannah Tinti |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Liked this book because it reminded me of all the Charles Dickens books I read. |
| Melanie Daniel |
| Cross Country (Alex Cross Novels) by James Patterson |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Alex Cross is at it again. I love all of James Patterson's books because they are great, easy weekend reads. I did find this book to be a little over the top, though. I mean, how many times in one book can Alex luck out and cheat death? A little bit James Bond-ish for me. |
| sal williams |
| Dreamcatcher by Stephen King |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This was an okay story for me but it didn't hold me prisoner as some of his books do (CUJO, THE STAND, and CHRISTINE, for instance). However, King is always a joy to read, simply because he describes life as I know it so well. He speaks to my heart most of the time. This story is about friendship as much as anything else. The alien presence, its relentless drive to survive, and our reaction to it echoes our times and our fears. Love and loyalty seem to save what's left of the day. |
| Kathleen Boucher ([email protected]) |
| Third Degree by Greg Iles |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I couldn't put this down! Very engrossing story of a troubled marriage and a husband going berserk; a true thriller in every way. |
| Linda K. ([email protected]) |
| Duma Key by Stephen King |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is my third foray into a Stephen King work. I was very pleased with the first two, LISEY'S STORY and CELL. I started reading DUMA KEY a few days ago and I like the way he's slowly building up the suspense. At over 600 pages, I expect this book to take me a while, though I'm sure I'll reach a point where it will be impossible to put down. |
| Gale Kearley ([email protected]) |
| Butterfly by Sharon Sala |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is so good, I can hardly put it down. It has a very good beginning. I can identify with the girl in the story. |
| Dorothy Minor ([email protected]) |
| Interred With Their Bones by Jennifer Lee Carrell |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Carrell's book is a literary mystery, a search for the manuscript of one of Shakespeare's lost plays. The story takes twists and turns, leaving the readers and the heroine not knowing what will happen next and whom to trust. |
| Cheryl S. |
| Say Goodbye by Lisa Gardner |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A good thriller, but a bit creepy and gruesome. It is sometimes hard to wrap your mind around such evil. |
| Bonnie |
| Soul Catcher by Michael White |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Terrific character-driven novel that takes a while to get into, but once you're in the heart of the story you won't be able to put it down. Story centers on Cain, a 'soul catcher', i.e. one who chases down escaped slaves and returns them to their 'owner'. |
| Christine Zibas ([email protected]) |
| Zig Zag: The Incredible Exploits of Eddie Chapman by Nicholas Booth |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is the nonfictional story of a British double agent during World War II who worked both for the British and Germans. Eddie Chapman's life is so unbelievable, you'll think you are reading a novel. |
| Ivy |
| Testimony by Anita Shreve |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A compelling, tragic story about how a bad choice at a private school changes and destroys the lives of many. |
| Ricki |
| Dark Pursuit by Brandilyn Collins |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
This was a fast read, but I really did not feel for any of the characters, and the twist came way out of left field. |
| Denise |
| After You'd Gone by Maggie O'Farrell |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Excellent but sad story of a woman who attempts suicide after seeing something shocking in a railway station. The layers of revelations are bittersweet and compelling as we learn her story, as well as about her mother and grandmother. |
| Kellie ([email protected]) |
| The Story of Edgar Sawtelle by David Wroblewski |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
I thought this book was extremely well written. However, as a reader, I felt totally cheated at the end. After 562 pages, I thought the ending might have been more satisfying --- more concrete. I was so mad, I almost threw the darnn book. You spend that long reading a book and rooting for the main character and when you get to an ending like that, you want to yell at somebody. Or, discuss it. I really want to know what other readers have thought about this book. Most of the early reviews I have read, ranted, and raved about this book. That is why I picked it up. I am glad I read this, I just wish I felt better about it. |
| Paula P. |
| The Sinner's Guide to Confession by Phyllis Schieber |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Great story of friends, family and decisions that effect your entire life. Good characters. |
| Susan |
| Those Who Save Us by Jenna Blum |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
A German woman finds out her mother was the mistress of an SS officer during Nazi Germany. She thinks this man was her father and suffers shame for her adult life. Years later, things come to a head. |
| Ivy |
| The Various Flavors of Coffee by Anthony Cappella |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Be prepared to learn a lot about the origins of coffee and the nature of men and women in this historical novel. |
| Sally |
| Silks by Dick Francis and Felix Francis |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Writing with his son Felix, this is another great Dick Francis mystery that takes place in the world of horse racing and the British legal system. I hope they keep them coming! |
| Linda Bedell |
| Born to Run: A Novel of Suspense by James Grippando |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A great thriller that almost seems prophetic in its telling. |
| Patricia ([email protected]) |
| Widow For One Year by John Irving |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
It grabbed me in the beginning, then got wierd in Amsterdam, drug me back in and hooked me and I loved it. Strange love story of a young man for an older woman. |
| Alyce |
| Blindspot by Jane Kamensky and Jill Lepore |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
What I liked most about the story was the intelligent writing. The book is written in old-fashioned language, but it is done in such a way that it is not boring or confusing; in fact, it is downright entertaining! I also enjoyed the double meanings, play on words, and double entendres that abound in this book. I would recommend this book for anyone with an interest in historical fiction (specifically history of the U.S. independence from Britain, and slavery), romance or mysteries. Oh, and this book has an ending that is begging for a sequel, so if you like a good series I would imagine there will be more books coming (I hope). |
| Carol B. |
| The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I laughed and cried as Enzo (the dog) told the story, weaving racing principles into human life lessons, all from a dog's perspective. Terrific ending! |
| Reva Wamsley ([email protected]) |
| T is for Trespass (Kinsey Millhone Mysteries) by Sue Grafton |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
After waiting for this book to come out in paperback, I finally got to read it and was not disappointed. The storyline is a little different but kept my interest. One of Kinsey's elderly neighbors has fallen and needs a caretaker, but what he ends up with is a nightmare. |
| Sue W. |
| Santa Cruise: A Holiday Mystery at Sea by Mary Higgins Clark and Carol Higgins Clark |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Another light, fun read bringing back Alvirah and the Reillys. Again, not overly memorable but an enjoyable book that you can put down and pick up without going back and re-reading paragraphs. |
| Sue W. |
| Small Town Christmas: Return To Promise\Mail-Order by Debbie Macomber |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Light, easy reading of two stories under one cover. These are quick reads but not overly memorable. |
| Sally |
| Tell Me Lies by Jennifer Crusie |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
A friend gave me this audiobook, and it was somewhat entertaining. It's a mystery in the 'chick lit' tradition and never develops much depth. |
| kathleen |
| Robert Ludlum's The Bourne Sanction by Eric Van Lustbader |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
I just checked it out from the library, so I really can't rate it yet. |
| Gwen Schatz |
| The Killing Circle by Andrew Pyper |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
One of the best mysteries I have ever read and very well-written. I could not put it down until the end. Ending totally surprised me. |
| Ray Palen ([email protected]) |
| The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
An incredible mystery and exploration into the culture and industry of Sweden as never before. Knowing that this author died before seeing his novel translated into English for U.S. release was quite a blow for me as I would have gladly read anything he wrote. Excellent! |
| Dena W |
| Dark Pursuit by Brandilyn Collins |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This was the first book that I've read from Brandilyn and I thought it was really good. I liked the characters and it had me turning the pages; I couldn't wait to see what would happen next. There was a few places that had my skin crawling. I will be checking out her books in the future. |
| Deanna Harwell |
| New Moon: The Twilight Saga, Book 2 by Stephanie Meyers |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This seems to be written for the younger crowd but is interesting. It is the second in a vampire series of four books. It is amazing how Meyer personifies the habits and thoughts of vampires. While the subject matter suggests blood and violence, there is little of that. It is basically a romance. |
| RitaB |
| The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I loved this book. It takes place in post-WWII Britain and the Channel Island of Guernsey. The story of Nazi-occupied Guernsey is told in a series of letters between an author, her publisher and several of the island's residents. The letters are a very successful instrument for character development. I fell in love with each character. |
| Wanda Duckett ([email protected]) |
| The Brass Verdict by Michael Connelly |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Connelly is the best of the best. He never disappoints. |
| Wanda Duckett ([email protected]) |
| Scarpetta by Patricia Cornwell |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Cornwell is back on track. It was great book. |
| Wanda Duckett ([email protected]) |
| Thw World Is What It Is: he Authorized Biography o by Patrick French |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Must read!!! |
| Yvonne Butler ([email protected]) |
| Cold Pursuit by Carla Neggers |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Murder! An Ambassador is killed in D.C., hearing the news, his step-daughter vanishes on a mountain near Black Falls, Vermont. Banished for her treatment of the Vice President's son, Secret Service Agent Jo Harper is drawn into the search because of Elijah Cameron, a Special Forces soldier who returns home recovering from a bad experience and injuries from his last mission. These two were once in love when they were too young. Makes for great reading. |
| Lorraine M. LaRose ([email protected]) |
| Amanda's Rib by Cyndia Depre |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is a wonderful book. It kept my interest from beginning to end. You'll love all the character's that Cyndia wrote about. |
| Julie Towson |
| The Flight of the Falcon by Daphne DuMaurier |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I got this book off the 'free' table at my library. It's beautiful descriptions of small villages in Italy combined with a murder mystery makes this quite enjoyable. I'm discovering DuMaurier for the first time and I would read more of her work now. |
| Lorraine M. LaRose ([email protected]) |
| Odd Thomas by Dean Koontz |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This would be the perfect gift for anyone. ODD THOMAS will be sure to tug at anyone's heartstrings. He's a wonderful character that you can't help but love. After reading the first book, they'll be sure to buy the rest of that series. |
| Susan |
| Santa Clawed by Rita Mae Brown and Sneaky Pie Brown |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I have enjoyed this entire series of books. I love the interaction between the 'pets and the plots never disappoint -- there are always fun twists. |
| Joni Haynes |
| Cross Country (Alex Cross Novels) by James Patterson |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This Cross adventure is a departure from Patterson's usual. We get a lot of input about what is really happening (in real time) on the civil war front in several of the African countries. It becomes gory, but never so much so as to become unreadable! |
| Peggy |
| Boom! by Tom Brokaw |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I'm not a non-fiction reader by choice, but I read this book because my book club was doing it. Surprise --- it is easy to read, interesting, and well-written. Tom Brokaw has made the 60's a good read, especially for those of us who lived through it! |
| Fran |
| Tales from the Scale by Erin Shea |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Anyone who has been on a weight loss journey, obsessed over a number on a scale, and obsessed with their own weight and body fat will have something to relate to in this little book. A good depiction on the societal value placed on weight and appearance in our society. |
| Marsha |
| The Lace Reader by Brunonia Barry |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Although this book has been well-reviewed and hyped, it did not live up to my expectations. It was confusing and nearly impossible to comprehend. |
| Debbie |
| Not Even Wrong: A Father's Journey into the Lo by Paul Collins |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This book is non-fiction and weaves together the author's learning that his two-year-old son is autistic, with a history of autism, and the adapting the author and his wife have to do to live with their son. It's a fascinating book, and even more so if you know someone who's on the autism spectrum. You'll come to cheer any and all of Morgan's triumphs. |
| Carol |
| Crossing to Paradise by Kevin Crossley-Holland |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This was a most enjoyable read. His juvenile novels about King Arthur were good, but weren't exactly a 'fun' read. This was a delightful blend of historical fiction and light romance set in the Middle Ages. |
| Marsha |
| Riptide by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
An engaging tale of pirate treasure recovery on a small island off the coast of Maine. Even high-tech equipment is no match for the possible curse that lies beneath the island. |
| Christy H. |
| Boo Humbug (The Boo Series #4) by Rene Gutteridge |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
If you haven't read the first three books in The Boo Series, I highly recommend doing so before reading this holiday-themed conclusion, just so you have a better idea of the characters and their previous escapades. I have come to love the citizens of Skary, Indiana and I'm going to miss them. This book is a fun Christmas tale filled with laughter, tears and a great message. |
| A, Bowen |
| Anathem by Neal Stephenson |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This book will take you a long time but you will travel through worlds long past and soon to come. It's interesting and terrifying all at once. |
| Ann Bowen |
| Devil Bones by Kathy Reichs |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A Temperance Brennan novel and Reichs at her best, this book discusses how beliefs cloud our behavior and it's a great mystery at once! I loved it. |
| P.B.S. |
| The Kommandant's Girl by Pam Jenoff |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A very well-written novel by a relatively new author. I read this book within three days --- I just could not put it down. Takes place during World War II, with so many twists and turns that you cannot wait to get to the next chapter. Also, read THE DIPLOMAT'S WIFE by Pam Jenoff. Another terrific novel to read! |
| Ann Bowen |
| Bulls Island by Dorothea Benton Frank |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Another very nice read from Dottie. Not as great as THE LAND OF MANGO SUNSETS which I would give ten stars, but yet fulfilling and surprising. I have already given my copy away and the person I gave it to loved it as much as I did. |
| Marisa |
| The Queen's Gambit by Walter Tevis |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Chess: who knew chess could be so interesting? Beth is an orphan who discovers quite by accident that she is also a chess prodigy. Tevis, who also wrote THE HUSTLER and THE COLOR OF MONEY, creates an exciting story that has you rooting for Beth as if she were Rocky. She comes of age and tackles her demons all the while building an international reputation as the best chess player in the world. Couldn't put this down. |
| Sandy |
| The Gate House by Nelson DeMille |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
The ending is the best, so do not peek!!!! |
| Debbie ([email protected]) |
| The Spy Who Came for Christmas by David Morrell |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A wonderful story of the first Christmas interwoven with the stories of a stolen baby, an alcoholic wife beater, the wife, the lame son, the Russian Mafia, terrorists, the miracle of Christmas, and how all the elements come together in the end. |
| Audrey Blake |
| Circle Opens: Cold Fire by Tamora Pierce |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Tamora Pierce's books are always good. Follow her series and you fall in love with the characters; her worlds are complete, and the storyline moves along swiftly. |
| Vicki |
| Beasts by Joyce Carol Oates |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Short novel about a college student that falls in love with her professor in the 1970's. I bit brutal at times, but worth the read. |
| Readingrat |
| Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is an interesting exploration on cultural differences, paying particular attention to the clash that occurs when two very different cultures try to occupy the same space. |
| Judy O. |
| Some Assembly Required by Lynn Kiele Bonasia |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Thirty-nine-year-old Rose goes back to Cape Cod, Massachusetts in order to 'regroup' her life after she caught her lover cheating with another woman. Rose subsequently meets quite a roster of interesting people: her landlady Val, an autistic savant boy named Noel, an alcoholic man who is trying to win over his demons, and Cooper, one of the senior citizens of the town. These disparate people meet, and then try to build a life together on this beautiful cape. Very readable book and one that I will be sharing with others. |
| Marsha |
| Relic by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child (Pendergast, Boo |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
This book introduces Pendergast who is featured in several successive books but unless you are a big fan of Natural Science Museums and botany, skip this one. |
| Vicki |
| Snow Angels by Stewart O'Nan |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Well, to me this is not one of his better works, but still enjoyable. |
| Betty Burrier |
| Cross Country by James Patterson |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This book starts like all of the Dr. Cross books with immediate excitement and action. I wasn't sure I would like it in the middle --- it was a little slow for about 15 pages, but then the action picks back up and you are hooked until the end. |
| Readingrat |
| Glory in Death by J.D. Robb |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
I didn't really like Eve Dallas in the first half of this book; she was just channeling her inner drama-queen a bit too much for my taste. Once she toned it down a bit, though, the story got quite interesting and was wrapped up just shortly after the reader figures out whodunnit. |
| Ramona |
| Child of My Heart by Alice McDermott |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Although not finished, this is one of the better books I've read this year. The cast of characters are varied and interesting. Theresa is fifteen, beautiful, and one of the most sought-after sitters in rich East Hampton. Her charges include four dogs, three cats, uncared-for neighbor children, her eight-year-old cousin, Daisy, and a toddler, Flora, oft-neglected child of a local artist and his wandering wife. It is an interesting summer as you watch Theresa show more maturity and love to her charges than the adults involved. You'll laugh and cry. |
| Monica C |
| People of the Book by Geraldine Brooks |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
An excellent audiobook/book. Narrator Edwina Wren reads beautifully the wonderful story of the Sarajevo Haggadah written by Geraldine Brooks. |
| Monica C. |
| A Thousand Years Over a Hot Stove: A History of Am by Laura Schenone |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A very good read about the history of food here in the U.S. I learned a great deal. A must read for women's studies class, home economics, or history class. |
| Kaye |
| My Little Girl by Tim McGraw and Tom Douglas |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
When Katie's dad promises her a 'spectacular day' for just the two of them, Katie starts to imagine all sorts of fun things. Her big decision is what to wear, maybe a tiara if they are going to the ball, or her jungle boots if they go to Africa. It turns out her father had something different in mind, nothing in particular, just being together. Katie thinks some of this will be boring until she sees bunnies and chicks at the co-op. Dancing, looking at the clouds and seeing special images in them and going out to lunch with just her Dad turns out to be pretty spectacular after all. A loving good-night story to his little princess tops off the day. This is a delightful story a little girl would enjoy. The pages are quite large with nice big pictures in every little girl's favorite colors, pink and purple. The beautifully done illustrations should provide any little girl thoughts for her own imagination. Faith Hill writes a lovely foreword to the book, saying that books are the gateway to a child's imagination and that her hope is this book will provide memories for fathers and daughters as they read together. At the end is a message from Tim McGraw with the same hope. There is a space for writing your own special day moments. An overall feel-good book with lots of love from the parents of three special little girls of their own. |
| Lori S. |
| The Gold Coast by Nelson DeMille |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
After all the praise I have read over this book and its follow-up 'best seller' THE GATE HOUSE, I was not expecting to be disappointed. The good plot seemed to meander around and around before anything occurred other than the main character's constant musings. I am stubborn when it comes to giving up on a book, but halfway through this one I was starting to skim through as quickly as possible without getting lost. I needn't worry. Even skimming/skipping... I did not get lost. Think I'll pass on THE GATE HOUSE. |
| Germany |
| The Gravedigger's Daughter by Joyce Carol Oates |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
I have not gotten very far. Perhaps the stars will improve towards the end. |
| Marisa |
| The Secret Servant by Daniel Silva |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Another winner in the Gabriel Allon series from Daniel Silva. I've read them all and this is one of the best. A true can't-put-down thriller that is so timely it's scary, and it makes me glad I don't live in Europe. As always, Silva paints the radical Islam vs. The West picture accurately and honestly. This is not a book for cowards --- the situation is dangerous and getting worse. I sure hope superhero Gabriel Allon is based on an actual person, because the world needs him. |
| Marsha |
| Angel's Tip by Alafair Burke |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is a well-written series featuring NYPD Dectective Ellie Hatcher. In this second book she is investigating the deaths of young girls who have been murdered after spending time in the late-night exclusive clubs. She sees a connection that endangers her own life. |
| Carol |
| Sundays at Tiffany's by James Patterson and Gabrielle Charbonnet |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
If you are in the mood for a sentimental fantasy/romance, this is your book --- a surprise, with James Patterson's name on the cover. A young girl has an imaginary friend. When he leaves on her ninth birthday, he told her that she would forget him. She didn't. They meet again when she is an adult and it is magical all over again. |
| Ilene |
| The Septembers Of Shiraz: A Novel (P.S.) by Dalia Sofer |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This story takes place after the Iranian revolution. A family is terrified when the husband is imprisoned because of religion and politics. |
| Linda H. ([email protected]) |
| The Last Patriot by Brad Thor |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
When the President of the United States asks Scot Harvath, former member of the CIA, for his help, he cannot not refuse. His assignment is to locate missing papers belonging to Thomas Jefferson with proof that Mohammed wanted his fellow Muslims to live in peace, not war. As Scot and his colleagues try to locate these papers, there are rogue elements within the Muslin community who do not want peace and will stop at nothing to see that the truth does not get out. A great book. |
| Valerie Wiesner ([email protected]) |
| The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I started this book on a Thursday evening and finished it by Friday in the early afternoon. It is a great and deftly woven combination of more than one story which combines elements of high finance, romance, mystery and a close-up look at an extremely dysfunctional family. This has to be one of the best novels I have read this year, and I recommend it very highly. |
| Valerie Wiesner ([email protected]) |
| The Soloist by Steve Lopez |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is the true story of a newspaper reporter who befriends a homeless man on Skid Row in Los Angeles. The homeless man, Nathaniel Anthony Ayers, was not just a disenfranchised person; he had attended Juilliard in the early 1970s. The story is heartbreaking, heartwarming, and illed with a sense of hope all at the same time. What is even better is that I found out that a movie starring Robert Downey, Jr. and Jamie Foxx, will be in the theaters in April of 2009; I loved the book, and I am looking forward to seeing the movie. |
| Valerie Wiesner ([email protected]) |
| No One You Know by Michelle Richmond |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
After reading THE YEAR OF FOG by this author last year, I was curious as to whether I would like this book as much. I certainly do! It is a story of a woman whose mathematically gifted sister was murdered. Although no one was arrested for the crime, it was widely thought that the boyfriend had killed her. How this woman's death destroyed her boyfriend's life and drove apart her own family is part of the story. The rest of the story involves the sister's search for proof of what really happened to her brilliant and eccentric older sister. Fascinating book. |
| Bonnie |
| The Missing by Tim Gautreaux |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Terrific novel that combines history, mystery, and a sort of Larry McMurtry-style of storytelling. |
| Linda H. ([email protected]) |
| The Gargoyle by Andrew Davidson |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A story of a man horribly burned by a car crash and his recovery, aided by a mysterious woman named Marianne who arrives at his hospital room. Once he is released by the hospital, he is cared for by Marianne at her home. She is a carver of gargoyles or, as she calls them, grotesques. During his stay, she tells him wondrous stories of long ago and how they lived and loved in previous lifetimes. He goes along with her not believing what she tells him although the stories she tells are wonderful love stories. But are they true? Does he believe in reincarnation? Although totally different from the novels I usually read, this was a good story. |
| Linda H. ([email protected]) |
| Collateral Damage (The Sisterhood: Rules of the Ga by Fern Michaels |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
The group of women known as the vigilantes has received a request for help in return for which they will receive a Presidential pardon. But the ladies are smarter than this! They demand a letter signed by the President as well as the Presidential seal attached to the bottom of the letter. Knowing that they will never receive this, they set out to find out who is trying to set them up. A short book but good reading. |
| Kathy Kasten |
| Double Cross (Alex Cross Novels) by James Patterson |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Alex Cross at his best with two serial killers after him. Excellent! |
| Margi |
| The Likeness by Tana French |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This is Tana French's second book featuring some of the same characters we got to know in IN THE WOODS. I really looked forward to reading it but somewhere in the middle of the book it got pretty tedious. The characters were pretty boring. In my opinion this book is really a psychological study of the main character with the mystery as an afterthought. |
| Kathy Kasten |
| Clean Cut by Theresa Monsour |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Detective Paris Murphy knows who she is after --- the serial killer who always cuts off the hair of his female victims. She just has to prove he did it. Another great book by an author I have never read before. Am looking forward to more. |
| Linda H. ([email protected]) |
| Rough Justice (Sean Dillon) by Jack Higgins |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Another suspense involving Ferguson, Sean Dillon, Harry Salter, and his crew. There is a new member called Harry Miller, who works on behalf of the Prime Minister of England. Together, they take out Russians, former IRA radicals, and Muslim extremists. Jack Higgins' books are always good and this is another example. |
| Vicki |
| The Gift by Pete Hamill |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This novel is about a young man on leave from the Navy during war time. He is on a Christmas leave and goes back home. Short and an easy read, I recommend this one. |
| Ana Marie |
| The Cowboy, The Texan,and The Loner (Bitter Creek by Joan Johnston |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I love western novels. This saga about the modern day Hatfields-and-McCoys is a very good read. I plan on reading Ms. Johnston's entire saga about the Creeds and Blackthornes. Clean, no horror and no outlandish foul language. I highly recommend. |
| Sandy |
| The Cold Dish (The Walter Longmire Mystery Series) by Craig Johnson |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Just finished listening to this one and it was great! Lots of great humor in it. |
| Dan Gordon ([email protected]) |
| The Draining Lake: A Thriller (Reykjavik Thriller) by Arnaldur Indridason |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Excellent book --- fourth in the series and the newest in U.S. print. The book continues with the same Icelandic detective characters as another Icelandic mystery unfolds. Indridason's stories always include not only a dry subtle humor, but a piece of Icelandic history is also incorporated into the story. This is an excellent read and if you have not read the first four --- JAR CITY, SILENCE OF THE GRAVE, and VOICES --- they are worth reading first to get you acquainted with the characters. These are all four-star books and will leave you wanting more. |
| Marjorie Clark ([email protected]) |
| Oscar Wilde and a Death of No Importance: A Myster by Gyles Brandreth |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Just started this book and find it very interesting the way the author puts so many of the great literary figures together in one fictional story. I am looking forward to see just how this plays out. |
| marion miller ([email protected]) |
| When We Were Bad by Charlotte Mendelson |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Talk about dysfunctional! This is quite a family. Enjoy! |
| Sara M |
| The Jewel of Medina by Sherry Jones |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
THE JEWEL OF MEDINA by Sherry Jones is set in the harem of Prophet Muhammad, founder of Islam, and the plot consists of the battle to win his favor. The story is told entirely from the point of view of A'isha, Muhammad's most beloved bride amongst a bevy of beautiful wives. Married at nine she is affectionately called "child bride", and as such her position in the harem is constantly undermined. As she navigates the politics of Muhammad's harem, she is embroiled in controversies, intrigues and betrayals. As she comes of age, A'isha tests the concepts of faith and love. A book for Muslims and non-Muslims alike, Jones' subject matter is absorbing. A'isha is a strong central heroine for whom you can't help but root. For example, I've never rooted so hard for a pre-teen to consummate her marriage (as disturbing as that is). Jones admits some liberties, but also educates genuinely educates her reader about Muhammad's times and the origins of Islam. Though billed as historical fiction, the language leans a little flowery, and at times the story's tension will remind you of a romance novel. And beware --- some readers will find some of the subject matter offensive. But if you're a fan of the 'histomance' genre, this book is definitely recommended. Do be prepared for a cliff hanger ending, and the anticipation of Jones' second book in the series. |
| Margie |
| The Anteater of Death: A Zoo Mystery by Betty Webb |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I was drawn to this mystery by the title, and it proved to be very satisfying. It's not as light as the title implies, as it starts a new series featuring a zookeeper as the solver of mysteries. Give it a try. |
| F Tessa Bartels |
| The Sign of the Book: A Cliff Janeway "Bookman by John Dunnings |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Wow! Tight, suspenseful, as full of twists and switchbacks as a mountain road. |
| F Tessa Bartels |
| Whiskey Sour (A Jacqueline "Jack" Daniels by J.A. Konrath |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
An exciting new series --- for me. 'Jack' Daniels --- Lt. Detective in the Vicious Crimes unit in Chicago --- goes up against a serial killer, 'The Gingerbread Man'. He gets close to her a few too many times, but it's tightly written and moves fast! I'll read more of this series. |
| Denise |
| Testimony by Anita Shreve |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A wonderful read --- I read it straight through, and have gone back to re-read certain sections. A tough subject, completely unsympathetic at first glance --- a sex tape, involving several older teen boys and a very young teen girl in a private school dorm, is made public. But the story is awful, heartbreaking, infuriating, sad, horrific, all at once. It is a moment when so many lives collide, so many lives are changed forever, and told from so many points of view, all of them in perfect voice. |
| Shelly ([email protected]) |
| Misfits Country by Arthur Knight |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Fascinating read! The behind-the-scenes story of the making of the classic movie The Misfits. This was the last on-screen appearance for both Clark Gable and Marilyn Monroe. The book has to be considered historical fiction, as it is told from the perspectives of the principle characters, but the truth is there and it brings these people to life as real figures, not there Hollywood apparitions we all know. The portrayal of Marilyn is especially sensitive. Yes, this is fiction, but the author has done his homework to give the reader insight beyond any dry biography. |
| Shelley |
| March by Geraldine Brooks |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
If you are a fan of LITTLE WOMEN, you will enjoy hearing the story of Mr. March who has gone off to be a chaplain during the Civil War. The writing is similar in style to that of the LITTLE WOMEN series. |
| Tanya |
| The Dark Tide by Andrew Gross |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is a good mystery about a woman whose husband died in a terrorist bombing while riding a train to work. There are lots of plot twists to keep the reader interested. This is my first book by this author. I will read him again. |
| Pam Dean ([email protected]) |
| The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I'd give this book six stars if I could. I devoured it in four days. It's a book you don't want to end, a story of hidden identities, family secrets and lies. Go get it now! Vida Winter's life is a mystery to all her fans (she is a novelist). She has given hundreds of interviews and in each has given a different version of her life story. Vida is dying and has finally decided to tell the truth --- or does she> What a fantastic ride! |
| Peggy ([email protected]) |
| Dark Pursuit by Brandilyn Collins |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Now here is a mystery. You are writing a mystery and someone seems to be copying your story, killing people. There is a great family story mixed in with this tale and I found it very enjoyable to read a book that had a somewhat original idea with an ending that was a surprise. Thank you, BookReporter.com! |
| Jane ([email protected]) |
| Rough Weather by Robert B. Parker |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is a great read. Robert is a great storyteller. I would likely recommend this book. |
| Shelley |
| Among the Mad (Maisie Dobbs Novels) by Jacqueline Winspear |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Sixth in the Maisie Dobbs series, this excellent historical mystery is another winner. Set in 1931, Maisie and her assistant Billy must find a mad man before he kills scores of people using chemical weapons. If you haven't read this series, start with Maisie Dobbs. This one will be published in February, 2009. |
| Carol |
| Inkdeath by Cornelia Funke |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Last novel of the trilogy that included INKHEART and INKSPELL. This is a children's novel, but it takes commitment to get through the end to page 663. The first two were tighter stories of stepping into another world by reading aloud a story. While this had a happy ending, it could have been shorter and less rambling. |
| Billie McHam ([email protected]) |
| Jessie (Big Sky Dreams Series) by Lori Wick |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Her third in a series which is as good as the first. Her books always hold your interest from the very beginning and usually have a 'life experience' in them that touches your heart. |
| debbie |
| Twilight (Series) by Stephenie Meyers |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I started these books because I teach middle school and my girls were raving about them. Once I started one, I couldn't stop. Very interesting love story. I loved the view into the lives of the Cullens. Many adults in my building read the series and felt the same way. All of us teachers love Edward. |
| Jerry Kapner |
| Widows of Eastwick by John Updike |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
When you read new Updike, you realize how much you have missed him! Few can bring to life not only the complexity of the individual, but more importantly, intertwine fascinating personalities. Combine this with vivid locales and nostalgia for characters we have once known, and you have a substantive and enjoyable read. |
| Kellie ([email protected]) |
| Solo by Jill Mansell |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Another fun read by Mansell. I enjoy her books. Lots of surprises from one page to another. Hard to put the book down. Mansell is one of my favorite Chick Lit authors. |
| Billie McHam ([email protected]) |
| The Shack by William P. Young |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Great book that reaches into your heart and soul. It could change your life. |
| Elizabeth V |
| When We Were Orphans by Kazuo Ishiguro |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
All Ishiguro books that I've read (four) are strange, and all make you figure out exactly what is going on. But they've all been great, including this one. Ishiguro is one of the few authors who makes me want to read everything he wrote. |
| loretta sanford ([email protected]) |
| The Gate House by Nelson DeMille |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
I was so looking forward to this book, but I found it very repetitive and disappointing. |
| Kathy Kasten |
| Dark Pursuit by Brandilyn Collins |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Very suspenseful. I couldn't put it down. I finished it in one day. |
| Linda |
| Beyond Reach (Grant County) by Karin Slaughter |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Quite a thriller with many subplots. A good read. |
| John |
| A Lion Among Men by Gregory Maguire |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is the third in the series about the goings-on in Oz, circa Dorothy and the Wizard of Oz, only told from an adult viewpoint and a more realistic, down-to-earth angle. The first two books were about the Wicked Witch of the West and her son, and this one covers most of the life of the 'Cowardly Lion'. Very well written, and just thinking about the enjoyment factor of the book caused me to revise my rating upward. The whole crew that you knew and loved from the movie are either characters or mentioned in these books, although Dorothy is treated a bit roughly. Recommend this book highly, but also recomment you start with WICKED (the first in the series). |
| Judy |
| Those Who Save Us by Jenna Blum |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I'm very intrigued with stories based on World War II and the strength of those who survived. Another book I couldn't put down, this is a story about a daughter who discovers who her father really was and why her mother never revealed to her the truth about her life before they came to America after the war. |
| Judy |
| Sarah's Key by Tatiana de Rosnay |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I loved this story, about a connection between two families that lived in the same home in Paris, one in the present time and one during World War II when Jewish families were rounded up. Couldn't put it down. |
| loretta sanford ([email protected]) |
| The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
I had read a review which called this book the best thriller in a long time. I disagree, and the ending was not at all satisfying. |
| Coral Harrison |
| The Eleventh Man by Ivan Doig |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is about a winning football team from Montana just before World War II. All of the men from the team joined the service. Ben Reinking was a pilot but was plucked up by a military propaganda machine. He was to write war stories mainly about the 'Supreme Football Team', as it was called. It is a gripping story of parts of the war. Lots of facts about and a good story |
| Ginny |
| Trail of Secrets by Eileen Goudge |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
If you like to predict the outcome of a book from virtually the first chapter, you'll enjoy this one. Coincidence abounds. |
| ron ([email protected]) |
| The Khalahari Typing School for Men (No. 1 Ladies& by Alexander Mccall Smith |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Not quite as good as the previous three books in the No.1 Ladies' Detective Agency series. If you're a fan of McCall Smith, it is still enjoyable. However, if you haven't read any of these books, don't start with this one. |
| ron ([email protected]) |
| Snow Flower and the Secret Fan by Lisa See |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I'm sixty-one and male and wasn't sure if this book was really for me, but I'd heard so much about it that I decided to give it a try. The best decision I've made this year. Great story and very informative about the culture of nineteenth-century China. |
| Lorraine M. LaRose ([email protected]) |
| 8 Sandpiper Way (Cedar Cove, Book 8) by Debbie Macomber |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
If you read the Cedar Cove series, you'll love this book. If you haven't read it, you should. |
| Dave ([email protected]) |
| Extreme Measures: A Thriller by Vince Flynn |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Another Mitch Rapp CIA spy thriller that is a fast read. It is weighed down with a fair amount of preachy 'internal' philosophizing, but that's part of his style, I guess. Still recommended. |
| Reva Wamsley ([email protected]) |
| Final Target by Iris Johansen |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Another great book by Iris Johansen. This books is about the president's daughter who has had a traumatic event happen and is in a catatonic state. She is being taken care of by Dr. Jessica Riley who has previously brought her sister out of a similar state. |
| Sue W. |
| The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch and Jeffrey Zaslow |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is a short but truly wonderful book that is written by a man who is dying of cancer. He talks about his family, love of his work as a professor and how he views life as a whole. It is often funny, then it makes you cry. His lecture is entitled 'Really Achieving Your Childhood Dreams'. He tells us just how he has been able to do that. Great book! |
| Steffanie Sandlian ([email protected]) |
| Sour Rain by Thomas J. Aron |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
SOUR RAIN portrays the exciting early-statehood of Alaska. Though the state still promises adventure for many of us, it must have been wild in its first years. Organized crime did not respect the new state. In fact, it had the advantage because of Alaska's start-up problems. Most people had only limited experience with starting a new state. It's also an untold story because the world at that time was preoccupied with the Vietnam War. It seemed that few cared about Alaska crime in the 1960s. Those extreme circumstances demanded extreme law enforcement tactics. It was a bare-knuckled fight with only sketchy legal and technical processes for the police. It was uncivilized by our twenty-first century standards. The deception from the incestuous corruption of key Alaska officials demanded clever action by the SOUR RAIN good guys. The political corruption in Juneau that was cleaned out recently by Governor Sarah Palin might have had its roots in that Alaska era of forty years ago. Outsiders in SOUR RAIN played a huge part in fighting that corruption just as did the political outsiders with the upstart Palin, who defeated the existing political organization. That's an amazing pattern. The most interesting aspect, however, is that SOUR RAIN was written and published just before Sarah Palin became governor. This novel was a precursor to what really happened in Alaska during the last couple of years. It's a fascinating coincidence and an interesting story. |
| Edward J. Hahn |
| The Limits of Power: The End of American Exception by Andrew J. Bacevich |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Reading this book has helped me limit my expectations as to what any President can do to fix what has been broken in the U.S. for many, many years. Written by a true conservative, ex-military officer and current Boston University professor, it covers three crises: The Crisis of Profligacy --- we are too materialistic and spend too much on credit which is killing our economy. The Political Crisis --- we believe in an 'Imperial Presidency' whose advisers are people who have created a National Security myth that it is in their own best interest to keep alive. The Military Crisis --- we ask a military, led by incompetent leaders who are incapable of strategic thinking, to take on tasks it cannot accomplish successfully. The only way out is to change our paradigm, bite the bullet and realize the limits of our power, our economy and end our dependence on imports, especially oil. This small volume presents a powerful, non-partisan look at what's wrong now, how we got there and how we might get out. Anyone who considers her/himself a real patriot should read this book. |
| ck |
| Santa Clawed (Mrs. Murphy Mysteries) by Rita Mae Brown and Sneaky Pie Brown |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Fun to read, particularly if you are a fan of the series. This one takes place at Christmas. Pewter, Mrs. Murphy, and Tucker help Harry solve the murders |
| ck |
| American Wife by Curtis Sittenfeld |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Readers are supposed to think "Laura Bush" when reading this novel. Alice is our protagonist and some of her life parallels that of the First Lady. The setting is Wisconsin where Alice leaves her hometown after her senior year in high school. She is haunted for the rest of the book by the fatal automobile accident. The novel takes on a life of its own and Mrs. Bush fades into the background when Alice tries to recover from the horror of causing the death of her friend. Ms Sittenfeld also writes convincingly about the anguish a woman might have when she tries to stay in the background but also has strong opinions that might not reflect those of her husband. There is a splendid plotline that keeps the reader turning pages faster and faster toward the end of the book. |
| Michele L. |
| Talk Me Down by Victoria Dahl |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
TALK ME DOWN is a hot, scintillating, fast-paced story filled with sexual tension, passion and hair-raising suspense. When Molly, who has secrets aplenty, moves back to Tumble Creek, Colorado, not only does she gain a new man in her life but a stalker as well. Ben Lawson is totally drawn to Molly and her beauty. He just wishes she would open up to him more. Molly's stubbornness might irritate him, but the hot, sexy late night interludes fill the emptiness in his heart. He just wants a woman in his life to protect and love. Victoria Dahl has created characters that you will love and hate from the intense emotion that fills the pages. There are sexual scenes that will make you sweat. The sizzling, suspense-filled scenes are so palpable that you will feel afraid just like the characters in the story felt. Ms. Dahl has action suspense down to an art. The plot keeps rolling with what-ifs until the climactic ending. I have never reached a finale as satisfying as this one! Ms. Dahl's spicy and edgy style is a refreshing take on romantic suspense stories. |
| Renee |
| A Chance to Die by Elisabeth Elliot |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A fascinating look at the life of a Victorian woman in search of her vocational calling in China. |
| MJB |
| Heart and Soul by Maeve Binchy |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Maeve Binchy is back with another good story filled with characters from previous books. This one takes place in Dublin with Clara Casey running a heart clinic adjacent to the local hospital. Employees' and patients' lives are interwoven in this entertaining story. |
| Marsha |
| Stll Life With Crows by Lincoln Child and Douglas Preston |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Maybe the weirdest book I have read but it kept my attention with the relentless action and gruesome details. If you are a fan of their protaganist, Pendergast, you won't want to miss this one. |
| Pattie Berryhill ([email protected]) |
| Too Close to Home by Linwood Barclay |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I am reading this book right now. It is about murder and terror in a quiet town. A family is killed right next door. The town has many secrets, from a corrupt mayor, to a decade-old suicide. |
| Patricia B. Potts ([email protected]) |
| Pieces of My Heart: A Life by Robert J. Wagner |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Robert Wagner tells his life's story of the need to remove himself from his father's control in any way possible. He wanted to become an actor, which he did, and is certainly one of the most recognizable by us 'olders.' He gives insight into many actors/actresses/directors without being denigrating or degrading. He has values without condemnation. He also discusses his marriage(s) to Natalie Woods without being maudlin. It is a very interesting read and I would recommend it. |
| Sharon |
| Shepherd's Abiding (The Mitford Years, Book 8) by Jan Karon |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
During this time of the year I enjoy reading a few books about the Christmas season --- it helps me remember that although my life is still going forward full-tilt, I should slow down and remember the importance of the season. This year's choice is a good one for me --- Father Tim and his wife Cynthia are back at Mitford. He is retired and they are both trying to keep within their budget but find a meaningful present for the other. As always, Father Tim is involved in the lives of the town people and attempting to solve their problems so everyone can find the true meaning of Christmas. Makes me want to put up my Christmas tree! |
| Sandy Greathouse ([email protected]) |
| My Enemy's Cradle by Sara Young |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I'm really enjoying this book, and hope to read more from this author. |
| Michele L. |
| Mayhem In High Heels (Romantic Mysteries) by Gemma Halliday |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
MAYHEM IN HIGH HEELS is a hilarious, suspenseful murder mystery. It is brimming with all the key characters from the High Heel series. Maddie Springer is anxious; hiccups ensue as she tries to locate a killer after her stylish wedding planner, Gigi, is murdered. Maddie's fiancé Ramirez is in charge of the case. As the two of them work against time to solve the murder, bets are made, and they learn that their love for one another runs deep. Maddie's best friends Dana and Marco assist her with her wedding and unraveling the murder mystery much to her apprehension. What a hilarious pair of friends --- but they are true friends in every sense of the word! I love how Gemma Halliday intertwines laughter and romance with grit, suspense and murder. Her characters have incredible depth, which makes you feel like you know them on a personal level. Her story, MAYHEM IN HIGH HEELS, sparkles with charm unlike any other murder mystery. Each story in this series is exceptional and adds edgy style to today's romance mystery genre. This madcap tale of an offed wedding planner with romance and suspense contains more laugh-out-loud antics than a Peter Sellers, Pink Panther movie! |
| Ramona |
| Dark Canvas by Jody Summers |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
New author Summers,writes a spine-tingling love story about an artist who mixes people's ashes with paint to create tribute paintings, and begins experiencing terrifying images of the person's life. She meets a Kansas farm boy with special abilities which soon leads them to experience strange happenings --- would make a great movie. |
| JustJanet |
| The English Major by Jim Harrison |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Amusing adventure of a man in his December years. It made me ponder what is truly important in life. |
| Sandy Greathouse ([email protected]) |
| The Duchess and the Dragon by Jamie Carie |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Wonderful book...very inspirational --- a historical read about a Duke and a Quaker woman who live in two different worlds, when their paths cross. Very entertaining! |
| Sandy Greathouse ([email protected]) |
| Gardenias for Breakfast (Women of Faith Fiction) by Robin Jones Gunn |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Another wonderfully inspirational book about a mother and daughter, and how difficult it is for them to understand each other. This is an older book, and brought me to tears several times reading it. This is a keeper on my bookshelf. |
| Stacy Helpman |
| Nightlife (Cal Leandros, Book 1) by Rob Thurman |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I've been getting really bored with the same old, same old dark fantasy books. They were becoming far too predictable. Then, I picked up the first book in this series. Prepare for a dark fantasy like no other and prepare to be completely captivated. |
| Gary |
| God is a Bullet by Boston Teran |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A California police officer's daughter is kidnapped by a Manson-like cult. He teams up with an ex-member of the cult to search for her. Very dark and disturbing. Not for everybody, but suspense and thriller readers will love it. |
| Carol B |
| The Well of Lost Plots (Thursday Next Series) by Jason Fforde |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Third of the Thursday Next series. I really enjoy the author's sense of humor and inclusion of so many allusions and references.......I know I miss a lot of them but the ones I catch really tickle me. With this series it is probably best to start with the first (THE EYRE AFFAIR) and go in order. |
| Julie Towson |
| The Story of Edgar Sawtelle by by David Wroblewski |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I'm just about two hundred pages into this one, but I can't put the book down. Highly recommend it. |
| Anita Nowak |
| Change of Heart by Jodi Picoult |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I happen to enjoy Ms. Picoult's books enormously. This one focuses on 2 issues --- the death penalty, and organ donations. As usual, this book was very thought-provoking. I thought I had certain ideas about the death penalty, but after reading this book about a man who commits murder, I started to reconsider. I had to wonder as I was reading, if in fact a crime was actually committed. Ms. Picoult always makes you feel like you are getting to know her characters. This book was no exception. For those who like her work, I think you will enjoy this one. For those who don't know her, this is a good starting place. |
| Ray Palen ([email protected]) |
| Flashforward by Robert J. Sawyer |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
He has been dubbed 'the Canadaen Michael Crichton' and more than worthy of that accolade. This genre-breaking sci-fi/thriller/murder mystery is based on the premise that the entire human race experience a 'flash forward' of consciousness twenty-one years into the future for a period of two minutes. The results are not all good... |
| D Lohrding |
| The Rose of York: Love and War by Sandra Worth |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Great fast read historical fiction --- the first I have read by this author....just fantastic!!!! |
| Ray Palen ([email protected]) |
| Mistress In the Art Of Death by Ariana Franklin |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Ariana Franklin (a pseudonym) is quite adept at depicting 12th century London and all the ailments and religious crusades that go along with that time. However, this "CSI meets the Canterbury Tales" jaunt is short on thrills, not very gripping and has a murder mystery in which the guilty party is fairly obvious. Worth a read just for the historical value. |
| Ray Palen ([email protected]) |
| Hope, Not Fear: A Path to Jewish Renaissance by Edgar Bronfman and Beth Zasloff |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A nonfiction book written by an active Jewish philanthropist that challenges all North American Jews to get out from behind the fear of anti-Semitism and religious persecution and embrace their Jewish heritage before its impact is lost on future generations. As a non-Jew, I found this work fascinating and inspiring. |
| Ray Palen ([email protected]) |
| The Reach (Leisure Fiction) by Nate Kenyon |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Nate Kenyon is one of the best new voices in Thriller/Horror Fiction and his second major release, THE REACH, heralds him as worthy to the comparisons with a young Stephen King. This novel deals with a young girl blessed/cursed with a super inherent ability called "The Reach", that if not controlled properly, could doom the world as we know it. Sounds typical --- but Kenyon's style and deft ability to plot makes it a trip worth taking. |
| Jud Hanson |
| The Lion's Game by Nelson DeMille |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This novel features the return of John Corey, former NYPD detective and current contract consultant for the FBI. The plot centers around the infamous air raid on Libya in April of 1986 conducted by the U.S. in retaliation for the bombing of a Pan Am flight which killed more than 250 people. In this raid, Asad Khalil suffers the loss of his family and vows revenge on the U.S. He gets his chance years later when he pretends to defect to the U.S. and promptly implements a daring escape from custody, resulting in the death of more than three hundred passengers and crew aboard the plane he was on. Thus begins Corey's involvement, as Corey was to meet the prisoner and escort him to be interrogated. What results is a chase across the country and a race to find and protect the seven members of the squadron who carried out the 1986 raid before Khalil can exact his vengeance. |
| bookFestival |
| Lost Generations: A Boy, a School, a Princess (A L by J. Arthur Rath |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This book should be read by everyone who sits on a board of governors for a non-profit. It's the story of a boy growing up and attending Kamehameha School, and the end is the story of the thieves that ran the school. |
| bookFestival |
| The Defining Moment: FDR's Hundred Days and th by Jonathan Alter |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
The is the book that Barack Obama is reading. It tells about FDR's first hundred days in the White House. |
| Bonnie Capuano |
| Dark Pursuit by Brandilyn Collins |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I truly enjoyed this book. I didn't want to put it down, it kept calling me back. I would recommend this book to anyone who loved mysteries. |
| Debbie |
| Mistress of the Art of Death by Ariana Franklin |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is a very witty and well-researched book set in the 12th century, featuring a strong female protagonist who comes from Italy to England to solve a series of brutal child murders. How Adelia deals with cultural, class, religious, gender, and philosophical differences makes for a very exciting story. I'm looking forward to reading the sequel, already out, and then the one after that which is due in the spring. |
| Theresa N ([email protected]) |
| The Shape of Mercy by Susan Meissner |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A very intriguing story of three women --- Lauren, hired to transcribe the diary written by Mercy, and Abigail, the woman who owns the diary. Wonderful plot twist. |
