June 5, 2009 - June 18, 2009
Last contest period's winners each received a copy of THE LATE, LAMENTED MOLLY MARX by Sally Koslow, SHANGHAI GIRLS by Lisa See and THE SIGN by Raymond Khoury.
| Debbie ([email protected]) |
| The Wish-Maker by Ali Sethi |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is an interesting story of an extended family of the grand "dame" and her sister, children, servants, and grandchildren. Is Daadi the Wish-maker? Her ideas, thoughts, and actions influence everyone. The story starts out slowly on the eve of a wedding. The format of the writing is comparable to a mystery---who is the bride and who is the groom? Before the mystery uncovers, Ali Sethi reveals the life in Pakistan during a 30-50 year span. His language is both bitter and sweet, but the use of Urdu words with no translation is cumbersome. The story is told through the eyes of Zaki, the youngest male of the family. But the dominant theme is that of the female, who secretly controls power. The men all seem to be minor figures, even though the Muslim world is governed by men. The story shows that Americans tend to "take for granted" their democracy and ordered existence. Sethi skirts the brutal horrors of internal strife in Pakistan, and only shows a small glimpse, as when Zaki's mother is arrested for an article she wrote. I cannot understand how children are given so much freedom to do as they wish. An excellent book exposing a different type of life. I again enjoyed the cycle effect of the story, starting with the wedding and ending with the wedding; and the discovery of the world in'between. |
| Linda M. Johnson ([email protected]) |
| The Jane Austen Book Club by Karen Joy Fowler |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
I listened to this book and think I should go back and actually read it. The book documents five members of a group who meet to discuss each of Jane Austen's books. The group does include 3 friends, one's lesbian daughter, and a male acquaintance of the leader --- which has all wondering, "Who is he to be matched up with?" à la Austen. I will read this after I finish reading Austen's books. I have only read PRIDE AND PREJUDICE, which is a favorite, but I want to be fully informed in able to write and understand this book fully. |
| Linda M. Johnson ([email protected]) |
| Send Yourself Roses by Kathleen Turner |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
I saw Ms. Turner interviewed when the book came out about a year ago and thought this would be an interesting read. It was, but not the way I thought. It is mostly well-written (I don't understand how someone gets paid to say things like "between Gail and I"). I did not know Turner had such a cosmopolitan childhood. I hadn't realized she had been on the soap "The Doctors" for such a short period of time (where I first remember her). I didn't realize her language would be so "earthy". It was interesting, but I quickly tired of the "me, myself, and I-ness" of the quick read. She does have self-esteem to share. |
| Heather ([email protected]) |
| Crazy for the Storm by Norman Ollestad |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This book was extremely well written and I loved how he entwined the crash details with his childhood and how he became the person he is today. An extremely great book. |
| Marty |
| One Thousand White Women by Jim Fergus |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This historical fiction is an interesting and quick read. There are some rather graphic sections, so not for the faint of heart. |
| Angela Satalino |
| Flying Changes by Sara Gruen |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Ms. Gruen's writing is very compelling. I didn't think I'd like reading about horses, but that's only incidental. The characters are wonderful. |
| Genie |
| The Witch's Tongue by James D. Doss |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
James D. Doss' Charlie Moon series. THE WITCH'S TONGUE blends a complex plot with a touch of humor. Set in southern Colorado, this is the ninth novel of the Ute tribal investigator Charlie Moon series. Charlie is a semi-retired investigator in the Ute Tribal Police Department and a successful rancher. Seems like an unusually large number of crimes have occurred on Ute territory. Initially these crimes seemed to be unrelated, however, it soon becomes obvious to Charlie that the incidents are related; the theft of rare gold coins from a family museum, Charlie and his poker buddy/antique dealer (Ralph Briggs) are attacked in the antique shop, an Apache involved in a traffic stop attacks the arresting police officer, and Jake Gourd Rattle abandons his wife and disappears into mysterious Spirit Canyon. At first the relationship between incidents are a puzzle to both the tribal police and the FBI. By the end of the novel, the pieces of the puzzle begin to fall into place. Of course Charlie's feisty aunt, Daisy Perika, a shaman who manages to blend Ute beliefs with Catholicism plays an important role in this complex tale. New on the scene is FBI agent Lila Mae McTeague who quickly becomes Charlie's new romantic interest. This is an entertaining, quick read. Parts are laugh out loud funny. |
| Lynn Clifford |
| The Secret Life of CeeCee Wilkes by Diane Chamberlain |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Our group just finished reading THE SECRET LIFE OF CEECEE WILKES by Diane Chamberlain. The book was definitely a page-turner, as we constantly wondered what CeeCee was going to do next. In the beginning of the story, CeeCee --- a vulnerable young girl of 16 --- is wooed by an older man who eventually convinces her to aid him in a kidnapping plot that ultimately leads to the death of the governor's pregnant wife. As CeeCee evades the law and begins a new, normal life, complications arise. |
| Mindy ([email protected]) |
| Inkspell by Cornelia Funke |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Follow up to INKHEART, which was great. This promises to be just as great. |
| T. Thomas |
| The School of Essential Ingredients by Erica Bauermeister |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Wonderful book! This is a quiet book, one you want to keep reading; but not one that takes you on a roller coaster ride. |
| Susan ([email protected]) |
| Who By Fire by Diana Spechler |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I particularly did not like the book after I finished it. But then I realized that what really did grab me was not the story itself, but the character development, which was great. I really got to know the family. The sister, Bits was a sex addict; her brother Ash, was a religious fanatic; the mother was full of guilt and makes her children feel that guilt as well. The father, who is not with them after their sister is kidnapped, is a neglegient boob. I may not have cared much for the plot, but I did care about the characters. If the book had neither a great story nor interesting characters I would have given it maybe on star. But the characters arereally what drew me to the story. |
| Terri Loeffler ([email protected]) |
| The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This was probably one of the most enjoyable books I have ever read. Told in letters, it's the story of a young woman who is contacted by the eventual owner of one of her books. She begins a correspondence with him and other residents of the island of Guernsey who survived WWII and are rebuilding their lives. The characters' personalities are so well drawn that by the end of the book, you believe they are real persons and want to travel over to meet them! The harsh incidents from the war are included and not glossed over, but the characters accept them and carry on in spite of them. An absolutely lovely book. |
| Crystal |
| Death of a Prankster by M. C. Beaton |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
The seventh book in the Hamish Macbeth Mysteries series. Excellent mystery with hilarious characters. |
| Marsha M |
| Angels and Ages by Adam Gopnik author profile |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I would like to give this parallel biography of these two great men born on the exact same day an ocean apart 4.5 stars. In a narrative much like a story but filled with an insight only possible 200 years later, the author demonstrates how each was a precursor to more modern ways of thinking during the Victorian age of florid speeches and classical references. Each ushered in the modern point of view in both politics and law (Lincoln) and scientific investigation and classification (Darwin). I found especialy interesting the authors view that Lincoln's insistance on following the law and legal procedure put him on a colision course with the South whose romantic interperation of "honor" led at best to duels and at worst at lynchings. Equally interesting was Gopnik's demonstration of how seemingly effortless was Darwins ability to describe in depth and with accuracy the thousands of specimens he drew and catalogued creating a body of evidence to strongly support his hypothesis. If you like biography coupled with philosophic insight this book is for you. |
| Kristie |
| Ellie's People (series) by Mary Christner Borntrager |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Another Amish fiction series. It's very simple, easy and quick to read. My library has it in the Young Adult section. The order of two of the books in the series was rather confusing, but it was O.K. overall. |
| Judy |
| The Help by Kathryn Stockett |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I had read nothing but glowing reviews about this book from other readers. It wasn't always easy reading, but I was entranced throughout. I didn't live in Mississippi until the 80s so it wasn't like this (thank God), but there was still some underlying racism just below the surface. You come to like and dislike, maybe even understand a little of the different characters in this southern town during this turbulent time. A new college-grad, Skeeter, returns home in 1962 to find her beloved maid, Constantine, has left and no one wants to talk about it. Aibileen is a wise, wonderful black woman who is raising her 17th white child. Minny is a sassy woman with a penchant for cooking and a take-no-prisoners attitude. These three women meet secretly for a project that will change everyone's life, but the changes may not be what they expect. |
| Kristie |
| Evergreen by Belva Plain |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Not her best work. Of course, this was her first published novel. Seems to drag quite a bit. This definitely earns the name "family saga." |
| Kristie |
| Dumbing Us Down by John Taylor Gatto |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
About the hidden curriculum of compulsory schooling. Written by an award-winning teacher, this philosophy and ideas are definitely food for thought. Should be required reading for parents and teachers. |
| Marsha M |
| Beat The Reaper by Josh Bazell |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A funny, irreverent thriller where things are mostly not what they seem. We are introduced to Dr. Peter Brown, older intern working in one of the City's worst hospitals. As if being an intern in this woeful place is not enough, Peter struggles with a violent past which may be catching up with him. This is the story of how he tries to keep both his patients and himself alive. A fun and easy reading book. |
| Marsha |
| Gold of Kings by Davis Bunn |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This is a very ambitious book. It details a search for the Second Temple treasures and the art dealer who trades in these items. It is chock full of historical facts regarding Crete, treasure hunting, federal and Interpol investigators and much, much more. |
| Leslie |
| The Unbearable Lightness of Being by Milan Kundera |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
I'm not sure I am understanding this one, but trying. I know it was quite popular; it may not be my cup of tea. |
| Cindy in CA |
| The Help by Kathryn Stockett |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Bookreporter.com randomly selected me to win this book. I loved it! The story takes places in Jackson, Mississippi in the early 1960s --- yes, during the civil rights movement. Skeeter, twenty-two, is home from graduating college and is disappointed that Constantine, her family's maid and the woman who raised her, has disappeared. Skeeter, who becomes disassociated from her white girlfriends, sets out to secretly write a book about the stories of the black maids in town. The stories are both "good" and "bad" and it is very risky for the women to meet. |
| Brady ([email protected]) |
| Bill Mauldin: A Life Up Front by Todd DePastino |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is a biography of Bill Mauldin, but also the story of World War II in Italy. Mr. Mauldin was most influential during those times and this is the story of his life from a poor farm boy to an acclaimed artist and WWII veteran. It is a most interesting story told of those times. |
| Shirley Smith ([email protected]) |
| Shanghai Girls by Lisa See |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I was first on the list at the library. I have followed Lisa See since SNOW FLOWER AND THE SECRET FAN, and now I know things about China during a different time. It was still not the best place for an average looking girl with intelligence. |
| Diane |
| Cemetery Dance by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
You have a murdered journalist, an archaeologist wife, a cop who is a friend of the murdered man and the always interesting Mr. Pendergast. Is the Murderer dead as shown by all the evidence, or is he a zombie? Bet you can't wait to find out.... |
| Diane |
| First Family by David Baldacci |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I loved the book; it kept me interested from the first page. Lots of twist and turns and the characters are interesting. I enjoy this author a lot. The reason behind the kidnapping of the president's daughter was different and the ending was unexpected. |
| Carol M. |
| Little Pink House by Jeff Benedict |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Susette Kelo fights state government and big business to keep from forfeiting her home through eminent domain. Her battle goes all the way to the Supreme Court ending in a controversial decision. I'm about 100 pages into this book. It's very readable. Benedict has kept me interested. |
| Wendy ([email protected]) |
| Long Lost by Harlan Coben |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is his latest book in the Myron Bolitar series and it is a great read! Non-stop action and suspense. |
| Diane |
| Shanghai Girls by Lisa See |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Excellent book, great characters and I enjoyed reading about the 2 sisters and how their lives change as they realize they have some control of their lives they are not just useless girl children. Their journey from China to LA is exciting and dangerous. |
| Marisa |
| A Reliable Wife by Robert Goolrick |
| Rating: 1 Stars |
|
WARNING: do not read this book. The only thing reliable about it is how unappealing the characters are. These are some pretty miserable people who thrive on self-destruction and hurting the people they love. It's also pretty repetitive in parts. Just a very unlikable book. |
| Mary Ann |
| The Year of Fog by Michelle Richmond |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A very compelling and fairly realistic look at how your life can turn in an instant from what you thought. Tragedies happen, miracles happen, depression and loneliness happen. Life happens. Forgiveness and good intentions don't always change what will. |
| Susan |
| Wicked Prey by John Sandford |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Lucas Davenport's adopted daughter has a large part in this story. The seem like 2 peas in a pod. It will be interesting if she becomes a detective too. I liked her spunk and resourcefulness. |
| Kathy Vallee |
| Who Invited the Dead Man by Patricia Sprinkle |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
After her husband Joe is injured, MacLaren takes over being the new magistrate of Hope County. So when she finds herself on the wrong side of the law she has to find out who really killed a local man. |
| T. Thomas |
| Blasphemy by Douglas Preston |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Interesting take on religion. |
| Jaye |
| Thanks and Have Fun Running The Country by Jory John (ed) |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
It's a group of letters written by children in an after school tutoring program --- a quick read, charming, funny and thought provoking. |
| Kathy Vallee |
| Who Let the Killer in the House by Patricia Sprinkle |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
After the murder of a small girl years earlier, a dark cloud moves over the town of Hopemore. A man was sent to prison. But, after the suicide of one of the town's most beloved citizens, they wonder if they have the right man. |
| Susan Cooke |
| The Middle Place by Kelly Corrigan |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is a brutally honest memoir of a young mother and daughter caught in that place between being an adult and a child. When tragedy strikes, Kelly takes stock of her life and her relationships and shows us what living and loving is all about. The book is extremely powerful and gut wrenching as we share Kelly's struggles with breast cancer. Kelly Corrigan is an extremely talented writer. This book will make you cry from start to finish and make you feel all the power that women possess. |
| Kathy Vallee |
| Who Left the Body in the Rain by Patricia Sprinkle |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
The local successful family man who owns a car dealership is found run over by is own car. So once again, Judge MacLaren has to find out who did it, since they are old0time friends. |
| Susan Cooke |
| The Alienist by Caleb Carr |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This was an intriguing book about New York City in the late 1800s. The descriptions of society and the city are wonderfully enlightening. The book centers on the mysterious deaths of several unfortunate children and involves an investigation led by an eccentric "alienist", an early psychologist. The characters are absorbing and the story keeps you wondering who is the perpetrator and how will the investigation affect the characters and the city as a whole. I thoroughly enjoyed the book. |
| Gina |
| Eclipse by Stephenie Meyer |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Each book is as good as the last in this series. Looking forward to the reading the final installment but will be sad to see it end. |
| Gina |
| New Moon by Stephenie Meyer |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Just as good, if not better, than the first novel in the Twilight series. Suspenseful and heart-wrenching. |
| Gina |
| Twilight by Stephenie Meyer |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
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A great love story for any age. I was surprisingly addicted from page one. |
| Lorna Lafond |
| Murder at the Academy Awards by Joan Rivers |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I decided to read this book only because I do like Joan Rivers.. I couldn't imagine that she could write a good book but I was pleasingly amazed, I really enjoyed this book. She has created a character, 'Max', (who really is Joan) and just goes with it. It's humorous as well as a good mystery. The whole time I am reading I can just picture Joan Rivers saying everything that Max is saying..This book made me laugh with every page. If you like a good murder mystery as well as the Hollywood scene you won't be disappointed. |
| Connie |
| Danger In The Shadows by Dee Henderson |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is a great suspense/romance book by a Christian author. Sara is under FBI protection and cannot use her real name anymore. Her home is where the FBI sends her and she cannot stay very long before she is on the move again, trying to stay away from the man out to kill her. When she was 6 years old, she and her twin sister were abducted by this man. He killed her twin sister but she survived. She is now riddled with guilt over this. Sara has a brother, Dave, who is also in the FBI and on her protection team. Sara meets Adam Blach, a high profile figure, and is very attracted to him but cannot risk being seen or photographed with him because she is afraid her killer will find her again. This was a great suspense novel clear to the end. |
| Amanda's Weekly Zen |
| The Rule of Four by Ian Caldwell and Dustin Thomason |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I have seen many reviews of this book that only give it 3 out of 5 stars, so I have to admit that going into the novel, I did not expect much. In the case of THE RULE OF FOUR, the majority underestimates the novel. Now admittedly, none of the action actually takes place in the novel, but outside it. We never actually see Paul and Tom find the missing art that the Hypnerotomachia hints at. It is an interesting approach to have the action take place outside the novel and most likely would not work in many stories. But, it works here. The language of the novel is fantastic and approachable for many audiences. Perhaps the best thing about this novel is that it at times reads like a thesis on Hypnerotomachia, even going to the lengths of placing photos from the book into the novel that we are reading. As a lit major, I appreciate this aspect and it is the main reason that gave this book a 5 out 5. I prefer a reading of the novel that is at the center of all the scandal as opposed to unbelievable action that THE DA VINCI CODE and ANGELS & DEMONS are notorious for. Do not get me wrong --- I am not claiming that there is not an interesting plot or character construction. There is. The plot is just like all the other historical fiction adventure novels out there. People study this one book or time period and all of a sudden find themselves in some sort of adventure trying to discover the secrets that the book holds. The characters are just as round as those found in the same novels. Although I have to say that Tom in the end seems to have more of an epiphany than Robert Langdon at the end of both THE DA VINCI CODE and ANGELS AND DEMONS. |
| Laura Ann Adams ([email protected]) |
| The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A very interesting and informative book told through a series of letters from one character to the many wonderful and diverse other characters. |
| Julie H |
| Wings by Aprilynne Pike |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Laurel Sewell just moved from the only home she remembers, to a larger town in Northern California. She begins at Del Norte high school after having been home-schooled her whole life. Laurel sticks out a bit in the lunchroom, with her light-as-a-bird, vegan style eating, but soon makes a couple of friends in David and Chelsea. Her father's trying to make a success at his bookstore and her mother is just pleased when Laurel eats or drinks more calories, like a can of Sprite from their stocked fridge. One morning, Laurel wakes up with a strange bump on her back that continues to grow. Eventually, she sprouts a flower of sorts right out of the middle of her back. A visit to her old home near the forest helps explain her heritage. Turns out Laurel was adopted to this family on purpose. She is a plant faerie destined to inherit the land the forest sits on to keep safe the gate to Avalon. This is to be a four book series, there are faeries,evil trolls and touches of Arthurian legends about the gates to Avalon. Pike has created a wonderful character in Laurel, and a great three way romantic triangle with her, human David and the faerie Tamani. One wonders if the Stephanie Meyer endorsement will help this be as big a phenomenon as her Twilight series. |
| Kathy Vallee |
| Shoot from the Lip by Leann Sweeney |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is about a woman who put people up for adoption and their birth parents back together, until she gets in way over her head with a producer who wants to capitalize on the whole thing. |
| Gina |
| Fatally Flaky by Diane Mott Davidson |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
More suspenseful than her past novels and less recipes....I really enjoyed this mystery. |
| Kathy Vallee |
| When Will the Dead Lady Sing? by Patricia Sprinkle |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
When a Buffalo shows up in Maclaren's front yard, it turns out to be the campaign mascot for Lance Bullock, Mac's old boyfriend --- someone she does not want her husband to know about. |
| Amanda's Weekly Zen |
| Breaking Dawn by Stephenie Meyer |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
While readers of the Twilight series can take the third book as a sign of what the fourth book will offer to the reader, this is by far the most disappointing book of the series. The writing is slow and the story really seems to be reaching for anything. When reading this novel, I felt that Meyer was rushing to the end that we all new was coming from the first book but not sure how to actually get there. There are also uncomfortable parts of this novel that I would think should be inappropriate for people under 18 years old. There is much more violence, incest and sex in this novel than the three before them. There are some moments of beautiful writing, which seems to surround the character of Jacob and the werewolves in this novel. But it is not enough to pick this book up and read it if you are not reading through the series. I will not give anything away as to plot in this review, well for two reasons if you read any of the books or seen the movie you already know the plot and two there is not much plot to give away. I have to admit though the last chapters of the novel made me laugh out loud, but I am positive that it was not Meyer's intention. |
| JChild |
| Drink One To Me, Christian Bennett by Vicki Allen |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I met Vicki in Destin and she was very nice to sign my book. I have been reading for 2 straight days and have been swept away to another country. I loved the book and have recommended it to all my friends. |
| Mary Branham ([email protected]) |
| The Inn At Eagle Point by Sherryl Woods |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I am really enjoying the 1st in this trilogy. It is about a family with lots of problems and how they come back to MD to help their sister and daughter open up a bed and breakfast in their home town. The parents have been divorced for years and the daughter has dealt with ADD but the inn is finished all they all come together for the opening. |
| Kathy Vallee |
| What Are You Wearing to Die by Patricia Sprinkle |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
After finding a local young woman dead and wearing clothing she never would be caught dead in, Mac wants to find the killer more then anything after she finds out that not only was she killed but her arms, legs, back and skull where broken. Who could do such a terrible crime? |
| Kathy Vallee |
| Guess Who's Coming to Die by Patricia Sprinkle |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
After being asked to join one of the highest clubs in town, Mac finds the president of the clib dead after the first meeting so Mac is right back to finding out who did it. |
| Kathy Vallee |
| Did You Declare the Corpse by Patricia Sprinkle |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
When Mac plans a vacation with her husband for a romantic get away, all things go wrong. Not only is she minus her husband, but she end up in chilly Scotland and empty coffins show up, then the American bodies. |
| Kathy Vallee |
| Who Killed The Queen of Clubs by Patricia Sprinkle |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
The local Bridge champion's husband commits suicide and leaves her totally in debt, along with just his collection of snuff boxes that his will forbids her to sell. But when she ends up dead, all signs point to someone Mac believes is innocent so she has to find out who really did it. |
| Amanda's Weekly Zen |
| Angels & Demons by Dan Brown |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Say what you will about Dan Brown, but the man does write a fantastically thrilling novel. Fans of THE DA VINCI CODE will find that ANGELS & DEMONS is very similar in writing style and plot (really all that changes is the search that Robert Langdon goes on). One of my favorite things about THE DA VINCI CODE was all the talk about the art of Da Vinci. In this novel our artist who hides clues to protect a secret is Botticelli. Again, in the novel readers are given lengthy descriptions of the works of art as we find them pointing to the answer that Robert Langdon seeks. We also are given a look at the possibility of antimatter and some of the science that surrounds it. Many reviewers out there will criticize Brown because his "facts" are not all that accurate and his take on religion is always less than favorable. But readers, lets me honest, ANGELS & DEMONS is, after all, a work of fiction. The fact is the novel is at times very thrilling and a page turner. As far as the characters go. well do not expect much depth or insight from the characters. At times they function just to move along the action. But again the book is a fun summer read. I gave his book 4 out 5 because the ending was strange. I felt that there were two endings to this novel. One concludes the action we were all waiting for a great ending that took me by surprise. The other is one that functions to finish off the relationship between Robert and Vittoria, which was easy to see the first time the two met. Although Brown tries to create sexual tension between the two, really, it is flat and if the second ending were left out of the book completely the book would have received 5 out of 5. All in all, it is a great book for the beach or a rainy summer day. |
| Juanita |
| The Gurernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I feel like I am reading someone's personal letters! It has me hooked! What a story and such a time --- wars always have such a consequence on everyone and this one is very interesting! |
| Amy |
| Valeria's Last Stand by Mark Fitten |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
In a small Hungarian village where the local tavern is the social center of town, and everyone knows everyone else's business, lives Valeria --- a brusque, opinionated woman of a certain age who long ago turned her back on love. But Valeria is struck by cupid's arrow and is smitten with the village potter. The thread of life unravels for Valeria, the potter, the mayor, the tavern owner and just about everyone else in town. Reading VALERIA'S LAST STAND is like a fun romp in the hay (so to speak). With interesting characters in a picturesque setting! |
| Kay |
| Prayers for Sale by Sandra Dallas |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Hennie Comfort is an 86-year-old mountain woman living in Colorado during the Depression in this wonderful story. She tells stories to her young neighbor throughout the book as she reflects on her life. I found this book hard to put down!! |
| Jessica |
| Saints in Limbo by River Jordan |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
My initial reaction to this book was simply that it wasn't quite what I expected. Perhaps the book's description should have led me to believe that it would be a magical sort of story --- but instead, it had me expecting some more traditional Southern literature fare. What I found instead was that I was entering a fantastical world --- before even getting to know the characters and buy into the story --- and I admit I had a hard time staying with this book. Despite having read and enjoyed Haruki Murakami and Gabriel Garcia Marquez, magical realism just isn't necessarily my thing. But I was very glad I didn't walk away from this book after the slow start. Soon, I was devouring the second half of the story. All in all, I found it to be, in a word, charming. At times predictable and at times painfully sad, this is, underneath it all, a lovely little story of what matters most in life. This novel is in a category all its own, not quite like any other book I've read. And I find that in and of itself refreshing. |
| Priscilla |
| Case of Exploding Mangoes by Mohammed Hanif |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This book reads (for me) as a dark comedy on a true historical event that I had no knowledge of ( the plane of the the Pakistani dictator General Zia and several top generals crashing). A little difficult to get into, but a very worthwhile and entertaining read. |
| Priscilla |
| The Memory Keeper's Daughter by Kim Edwards |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
One of the many books I'm currently reading! A great story, sad and bittersweet. They've made a movie out of the novel with a great cast, but I want to finish the book before watching the movie. It wasn't a novel that's made me stay up all night to finish, but it's a book I can pick up after a few days and remember everything I've read so far. |
| Priscilla |
| Vigil by Cecilia Samartin |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
So far, so great! Written both in third person (present) and first person (past), it tells of one woman's vigil of her dying husband while remembering the horrors of her past in El Salvador. |
| Sharron |
| A Confederacy of Dunces by John Kennedy Toole |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Published posthumously and awarded the Pulitzer, this zany story of characters takes place in New Orleans. (Is this Toole's real life?) It is a book with lots of humor and pathos. A fun read. |
| Sharron |
| Rasputin's Daughter by Robert Alexander |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Story of the last days of Rasputin as told by his daughter, Maria. While fiction, it is an Interesting tale based on real events that made me want to delve more into the history of the time. |
| Sharron |
| Sleep Towards Heaven by Amanda Eyre Ward |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Great first novel by this author revolving around women on death row and the people who interact with them. It would be a great discussion book. |
| Rebecca Cox |
| The Echo Maker by Richard Powers |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
When Mark Schulter has a near-fatal car accident, his sister comes home to take care of him. Family secrets, old loves and Mark's recovery changes all their lives. It's very detailed and confusing but also deeply insightful about one family in one small town. Pulitzer Prize Finalist. Worth the time and reflection to read this book. |
| Kim |
| Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close by Jonathan Safran Foer |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
His story catches your interest and holds you close to your page until the last words and pictures have been viewed. A sensitive story of a young boy's grief after the loss of his Dad and how he copes and matures along the journey. |
| Dottie Erdmann ([email protected]) |
| The Sharper Your Knife, The Less You Cry by Kathleen Flinn |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
An amusing and very interesting book about a 36-year-old American who loses her mundane job in London, and then decides to cash in her savings and enter Le Cordon Bleu in Paris. Armed only with big hopes, and no French, she writes of the challenges and frustrations of the classes. It was funny and enlightening. I learned I have no desire to take the class. Wonderful book. |
| Val ([email protected]) |
| Blind Sight by Terri Persons |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is the 3rd book with FBI agent Bernadette Saint Clare. She has a little extra 'sense' than the usual agent. Her hunches can lead her to victims and suspects, but give her difficulty explaining the evidence. Highly recommended. |
| Harriet Winograd ([email protected]) |
| The Faith Club by Ranya Idliby, Suzanne Oliver, and Priscilla Warner |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Three women --- a Muslim, a Christian and a Jew --- meet to find out what the other is about and, in the process, discover who they are themselves. In addition to finding the book fascinating, it has created a need to learn more about how these religions can co-exist. |
| Bonnie |
| The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Shaffer and Barrows |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This was a lovely novel despite the overly-precious title. It almost put me off reading the book because I thought it would be a treacly "women's" book or romance. But it's quite wonderful and very well-written. The characters, particularly, are each distinctive and real...a big difference from too many bestsellers today (I'm talking to you, Danielle Steel, and her ilk:) |
| Ron G |
| Body of Evidence by John Lescroat |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
I would hesitate to recommend this book to non-Lescroat fans. At over 500 pages, it just doesn't keep up a good enough pace to make it a worthwhile read. It concerns a wealthy playboy's murder and Dismas Hardy ends up defending his own ex-father-in-law. |
| Ron G |
| Ernie by Ernest Borgnine |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A brief autobiography by a 92-year-old best actor Oscar winner who has worked with some of Hollywood's best known actors of the last 60 years. This is an easy and enjoyable read that all movie buffs will relish. |
| Marsha |
| Little Bee by Chris Cleave |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
If your book club is searching for a flawless novel, check this one out. LITTLE BEE is an amazing story of a chance encounter that changes several lives. The novel is told in two voices and as the story unfolds, you become engrossed. |
| Kellie ([email protected]) |
| Down River by John Hart |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I loved Hart's first novel, KING OF LIES. This one is just as good, if not better, with a rare "cannot put it down" type of suspense. I loved it. The story is about Adam, who was falsely accused of murder and thankfully acquitted. However, there was too much damage done to his reputation and relationships so he decides to leave town. He spends 5 years in New York, and when a friend calls him for help, decides to go back home. He wonders if that was the right thing to do after old wounds resurface. Hart does a fantastic job dangling the suspense from page to page like a carrot. You don't want to stop until it ends. |
| Fran |
| Haunted New Jersey by Patricia A. Martinelli, Charles A. Stansfield Jr. |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
A fascinating book depicting some of the legends and stories behind some of New Jersey's alleged haunt sites. I'm fascinated by this stuff and it was fun to read about phenomena reported near my home town. It was based more in the story behind the legend and did not seem creepy at all. |
| Louise Pledge |
| See Jane Run by Joy Fielding |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
The book begins: One afternoon in late spring, Jane Whittaker went to the store for some milk and some eggs and forgot who she was. That's the premise of the story, and when we learn what caused the memory loss, it's somewhat of a surprise. I actually gave this 4 1/2 stars, and it only missed 5 due to the fact that it seemed to drag. I was reading it on a plane(s) and couldn't stick with it like I would have liked. I do really enjoy Joy Fielding, though, and keep buying everything I can find by her. |
| Jean M |
| The Many Aspects of Mobile Home Living by Martin Clark |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This one from Clark is ok, but not as good as LEGAL LIMIT (his 3rd novel). |
| Margi |
| The Last Child by John Hart |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Hart's latest novel is about a 13-year-old boy's year-long search for his abducted twin sister. His father has left, his mother lives in a world of booze and pills so he is basically on his own. He really trusts no one, even the policeman who seems to be on his side. He has one friend who, because of a physical deformity, is an outcast like himself. I highly recommend this book. |
| Crystal Blackburn |
| Murder in the Gunroom by H. Beam Piper |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A gun collector is found dead from a gunshot wound in a locked room. Private Detective (and gun collector) Jeff Rand is hired by the widow to find out what happened. Of course there is more going on that first suspected in this story first published in 1953. |
| Crystal Blackburn |
| Murder at Bridge by Anne Austin |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
The hostess of a society bridge party is murdered while her guests hear and see nothing. Published in 1931, this book is still entertaining, and the mystery is very good. |
| Jean M |
| Mortal Fear by Greg Iles |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Computers and murder, what more could one want? It grabs you right at the beginning and doesn't let go. |
| Vicki |
| Early Leaving by Judy Goldman |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is one of those books that cannot be described as "good" because of the subject matter, but it is very well written. It takes us back through out a mother's life as her child is about to be sentenced for murder. Highly recommended. |
| Bridget |
| Fire And Ice by Julie Garwood |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Good book that is a cross between romance and crime story. A punky reporter whose dad is on the lam and an FBI agent hook up to solve an unrelated murder and fall in love while doing so. Some things were a little predictable, but overall, entertaining. |
| Teresa Steinert ([email protected]) |
| Something Borrowed by Emily Giffin |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
If I could, I might give this 2.5 stars. It was a fun read, but I was really torn about how I felt about the whole "affair". It was her best friend, no matter that the friend was a user and taker, but the narrator did let the friendship continue this way for years. Spoken like someone 2 decades older than the main characters. |
| Vicki |
| Little Children by Tom Perrota |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I have had this book for quite a while sitting on my shelf, and did not realize how good it was! Deals with 30ish couples, and their struggles to make a go of, well, life. |
| Vicki |
| Living Dead In Dallas by Charlaine Harris |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I just love this series! It has mystery, a little romance, horror, and a whole lot of fun! |
| Vicki |
| The BoneMan's Daughters by Ted DekKer |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is one heck of a thriller ride. Dekker does not disappoint. |
| Vicki |
| Serena by Ron Rash |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This book grabbed me in the very beginning, and didn't let go. Historical fiction that does not disappoint. |
| Vicki |
| Dime Store Magic by Kelley Armstrong |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Third book in the Women Of The Underworld series. A little different than the previous 2, but a good read. |
| Donna |
| The Echo Maker by Richard Powers |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
I am not sure about this book. It hasn't grabbed me but when I pick it up I want to read it. It is written very well but the story is slow. |
| Mel Morgan |
| Etta by Elle Newmark |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Ms. Newmark provided a different portrayal of the life of Sundance Kid and Butch Cassidy that was quite interesting. A true picture of the "Old West" at the turn of the century. Quick read and very entertaining. |
| Mel Morgan |
| The Leisure Seeker by Michael Zadoorian |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A feisty, elderly woman along with her Alzheimer-stricken husband travel Route 66, trying to fulfill their dreams before their final days. Although there was sadness, Zadoorian provided a lot of witty humor in the novel. Enjoyed it tremendously. |
| Teresa Steinert ([email protected]) |
| Sarah's Key by Tatiana de Rosnay |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I loved this book. I read it in less than 48 hours. I had never heard of Vel' d'Hiv, the roundup and deportation of Jews by the French police in July '42. The 4,051 children, 5,802 women and 3,031 men were arrested, interned in terrible conditions, separated from spouses, and parents; eventually being sent to Auschwitz. The novel was divided into 2 narratives, one from 1942 and one from 2002. I found the past narrative about the struggle of one victim, her family and how the community handled this terrible event of July '42 very vivid. I did find the struggles of the journalist of 2002 a bit more challenging. Her marriage was presented as very shallow and unfulfilling, but I don't know if that was the authors intent. It was a great read, especially having read SUITE FRANCAISE by Irene Nemirovsky. |
| Teresa Steinert ([email protected]) |
| While My Sister Sleeps by Barbara Delinsky |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
I would have liked to give this 3.5 stars. I really enjoyed this story of sibling rivalry between the star and Miss Dependable, and the family dynamics we all seem to get stuck with. It was heart wrenching to read about the struggles this family had to endure after a tragic accident and the choices and decisions the family needs to face during a medical crisis. |
| Vicki |
| Christian the Lion by Anthony Bourke, John Rendall |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
What is not to love about this book? If you are an animal lover, you are sure to enjoy this. |
| Becky |
| The Time Traveler's Wife by Audrey Niffeneger |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This book is an interesting read as the main character is able to time travel. The different perspectives of the time traveler and his wife will keep you on your toes while reading. |
| Nan |
| The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larson |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
International mystery. |
| Linda H. ([email protected]) |
| Die for Me by Karen Rose |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
When one body is found in an abandoned field, the police call in an archaeologist to help determine if other bodies are buried there. Sophie Johannsen assists lead Detective Vito Ciccotelli with the investigation. As they search for identities of the victims, they are led to a gaming company. As outrageous as it seems, some of the identified victims bear striking resemblances to the characters in an action game manufactured by this company. When two of the victims are found to be a judge and his wife from Georgia, Vito is assisted by the judge's son and daughter, Daniel Vartanian, a Special Agent with Georgia Bureau of Investigation, and Suzanne Vartanian, a prosecutor with the New York District Attorney's office. It will be hard to put this book down until the very end. |
| Cindy S |
| A Long Way Gone by Ishmael Beah |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A well-written and captivating true story of a young boy caught up in the senseless war in Sierra Leone and his journey back to a sane world. |
| L. Hann |
| The Other Daughter by Lisa Gardner |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Very suspenseful. Melanie is trying to find out who her real father is. Is he the child serial killer that everyone is talking about? You will be on the edge of your seat as you find out all the family secrets she uncovers. |
| Lee |
| A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
In my opinion, even better than his previous book, THE KITE RUNNER. |
| Beth |
| The Lace Reader by Brunonia Barry |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
I am halfway through this book and I have to say, I'm losing interest quickly. It's moving along very slowly. |
| Ed Hahn ([email protected]) |
| East and West: China, Power and the Future of Asia by Chris Patten |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
When my wife, Pam, and I first moved, more or less permanently to Hong Kong, Chris Patten was the newly appointed and last Governor. I think we both missed much of the drama that was evident in the five years he was here. We were too focused on our jobs and figuring out how to live in this incredible city. Reading his memoir and advice, 12 years after the handover and 10 years after publication of this book, was a much needed trip down memory lane and a much needed reminder of how China operates and what is needed to successfully deal with her politicians and to a certain extent her business people. Patten writes with a nice light touch and understated humor. He is humble in the extreme but also unafraid of presenting his ideas and his principles. He starts with a quick three chapter summary of his years as Governor. He makes no bones about the difficulties he had dealing with Beijing, or as he continues to call it, "Peking". He also chronicles the difficulties he had with his own government, particularly the foreign office and some economic advisers. He was determined to introduce as much democracy as he could during his tenure, within the structure of the Joint Agreement between China and England. it was an effort neither Beijing nor previous Hong Kong governors and bureaucrats necessarily appreciated. It made for fascinating reading and made me realize how much of what was going on politically in Hong Kong from 1992-1997 that I totally missed. In the middle three chapters, a section titled "The View From Hong Kong", he takes on what he thinks are the mistaken impressions of most people when looking at the recent economic success of China and the so-called Tiger Economies. He believes that economic progress can only be sustained where there is political freedom. He refutes the idea that "Asian Values" usually ascribed to Confucius and others and favoring a more authoritarian political climate are really what all Asians believe or are effective at promoting long term economic growth. In the last section, "Looking to the Future" he makes a compelling case for political liberalism and support for human rights. He also suggests that the way to deal with China is not to kowtow and buy the illusion that real politik in China is different than anywhere else but rather to deal with China as you would with any other emerging power, straightforward and from a position of principle leavened with pragmatism. He shows how the Chinese uses Western myths about China to manipulate the diplomatic process in their favor. I enjoyed the first part of the book more than the latter parts. I suspect because it covered history that I had lived through. The rest of the book, though is well worth the time spent and should be required reading for anyone interested in how things really work in Asia. |
| Ed Hahn ([email protected]) |
| Resolved by Robert K. Tanenbaum |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
One of Tanenbaum's --- or is it Michael Gruber's --- best efforts. It started a little slow and the last chapters were a little anticlimactic; nevertheless. it was a terrific read. The Butch Karp series has always been peopled with astounding characters, and this volume does not disappoint. Even Ray Guma, the Mafioso prosecutor, shows up towards the end, along with Karen Stupenagel, Marlene Ciampi's old friend and rival from college, both in a very well done scene in Karp's office. The story revolves around a terrorist plot, the reappearance of an old nemesis of Butch and Marlene's, the sociopath Felix Tighe, and Marlene's return home from her self imposed, self-loathing, guard dog training exile on Long Island. Tanenbaum intersperses these threads with the trial of two policemen accused of shooting a defenseless Nigerian, Marlene's involvement with a local butcher accused of statutory rape, and Karp's discomfort with pursuing the prosecution of a gynecologist accused of raping a patient - all very juicy and fascinating sub-plots. He also does a good job of detailing the politics of the New York District Attorney's Office. Then there are the vignettes involving Lucy, Karp and Ciampi's very Roman Catholic daughter and their twins Zac and Giancarlo who are entering early adolescence. Sometimes it's hard catching a breath as the story moves from one focus to another. It certainly keeps the reader guessing at what could be next. Somehow, though, Tanenbaum ties it all together at the end. For some reason, I had stopped reading the Butch Karp/Marlene Ciampi series. Now I'm hooked again and plan to soon read the prequel to this novel ABSOLUTE RAGE. |
| Janice Hoaglin |
| Finding God in the Shack by Randal Rauser |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I read this book while leading a group in a discussion of THE SHACK by William Paul Young. There has been extensive criticism of THE SHACK by many more conservative groups and ministers, but I found it a very powerful book. In this book, Rauser defends it against the shouts of heresy, as well as many other complaints. Rauser examines the major issues --- the image of God; the mystery of the Trinity; hierarchy in the Trinity; the arguments against an all-powerful, all-knowing God in the face of evil; atonement; salvation for all creation. That THE SHACK has brought on such discussion among so many lay people is incredible; I have not had such discussions since my college philosophy courses, and welcomed the clarity and thought-provoking analysis offered by Randal Rauser. There are two books with this same title, and I found this one more readable, although both are helpful. |
| Steph ([email protected]) |
| Dragonfly in Amber by Diana Gabaldon |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is the second book in a 6-book series about Claire, who travels through time. I can't quit turning the pages. |
| Darby Lohrding |
| Just Take My Heart by Mary Higgins Clark |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Great mystery! The story keeps you turning the pages and staying up late to finish. It's complex with the mixing of characters, yet that adds to the heightened anticipation. |
| Beverly J. Rowe ([email protected]) |
| City of the Dead by T. L. Higley |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Exciting sojourn back into Egypt nearly 4,000 years ago as Hemiunu, the Grand Vizier to the Pharoah, builds the great pyramid that will house of body of the pharaoh when he dies...but a series of murders delays the construction, and stirs up a past to uncover a horrible secret that may destroy the entire kingdom. Great historical fiction. |
| Peggy Soler |
| 74 Seaside Avenue by Debbie Macomber |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
The continuing saga of the residents of Cedar Cove. Enjoyable. |
| Beverly J. Rowe ([email protected]) |
| A Change of Heart by Jodi Picoult |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A carpenter is convicted of first-degree murder for killing a seven-year-old girl and her cop step-father. Now, eleven years later, the little sister of the dead girl is dying from a heart condition and desperately needs a heart transplant. The condemned man wants to give his heart to the child when he is executed, but death by lethal injection will render the heart useless. His attorney must get his execution changed to hanging to allow the transplant to work. Emotional, heart-breaking, impossible to put down. |
| Mildred B |
| Garden Spells by Sarah Addison Allen |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A wonderful fairy tale-like story about an eccentric family and their magical powers. |
| Linda H. ([email protected]) |
| Don't Scream by Wendy Corsi Staub |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Five members of the college sorority met one evening but only four returned to the sorority house. One girl had fallen to her death and the other four swore allegiance to not tell anyone. But the next day, searchers were called and her body could not be found. Now, ten years later, someone lets the girls know that they were not alone that night and each are being threatened. They believe that it is Rachel who disappeared that night and now she is back. But as the first girl is found murdered on her birthday, the other three are frightened because their birthdays are not far away. Is Rachel a murderer? If not, who is? A very suspenseful book. |
| Linda H. ([email protected]) |
| Snowfall at Willow Lake by Susan Wiggs |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Sophie Bellamy is a successful attorney specializing in civil rights at the International Criminal Court in Holland. On one particular night, Sophie was present to be awarded an honor for her work in ridding an African nation of its dictator. Supporters of the former dictator were also present and shots rang out. The next day, Sophie thought long and hard about her future. In order to become the success that she was, her marriage had ended and her two children had lived with their father. Sophie now realized that she should have spent more time with her children and decided she would resign from the Court and return to the United States to live near her children. A good story about Sophie's search for redemption and happiness. |
| Cheryl S. |
| Anton Woode: Boy Murderer by Dick Kreck |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This book is about an 11-year-old boy who shoots a man in the back for a gold watch. It describes how the courts handled the case and treated Anton Woode as an adult. The book also chronicles his time in prison and what happened when he was eventually released. |
| Mildred B |
| Love And Othe Impossible Pursuits by Ayelet Waldman |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A story about loss and finding love as a step-mother. The story revolves around Central Park in NYC and is really a love affair with the Park. |
| Jaye |
| An Accomplished Woman by Jude Morgan |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
If you can't read Jane Austen, try this author! Great characters, great scenes (like Austen, there is some great dialogue) and I felt like I was visiting Bath all over again. I'm hoping to find the author's other books on my next book-shopping trip. |
| Debbie ([email protected]) |
| Bound South by Susan Rebecca White |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
This is for a book club discussion, and it will probably do well with all the quirky characters. The presentation of setting and characters was flat, with no dimension. Too many of the scenes just end without a resolution. The story was slow to start and never really went anywhere. I would not recommend this book to anyone. |
| S Larson |
| BoneMan's Daughters by Ted Dekker |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is my first Dekker novel, and I must say, it won't be my last. Ryan Evans is a Naval Intelligence Officer who is consumed by his job. He married Celine Evans in haste when he was younger and they adopted a little girl named Bethany. At the time Ryan was ill-equipped to handle a wife and family, he felt his sole obligation was to provide for them financially. For the most part, Ryan was an absentee husband and father, who was hardly ever home as he accepted tour after tour of overseas. Celine decided to move on and made no efforts to hide that she was dating other men. Bethany resented her father and wouldn't forgive him for being a deadbeat dad of sorts. While on tour in Iraq, Ryan is taken hostage by a terrorist, who uses copycat tactics of a convicted serial killer back in Evan's home state of Texas. Ryan is able to escape the ordeal and finds within himself a renewed sense of family. He can't wait to get back to Texas to apologize to both Celine and Bethany about his misgivings and to explain that he is a changed man and things will be different in the future. Instead of finding the open road to forgiveness between him and his wife and child, he finds instead his wife's new boyfriend and his child who wants nothing to do with him. Ryan is stricken with grief and doesn't know what to do. In the meantime, the supposed convicted serial killer, Boneman is about to be released from prison due new evidence brought forward. The Boneman had abducted young girls, and broken every bone in their body without breaking their skin. Shortly after his release, Ryan's daughter Bethany is abducted and evidence is pointing towards him as the new primary suspect in the Boneman killings. So has Ryan truly found himself; a changed man? Or has he been up to no good, when his family thought he was overseas working for the Navy? This was a great story with an engaging cast of characters. I look forward to reading more from this author. |
| Linda H. ([email protected]) |
| Foxes Earth by Anne Rivers Siddons |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is the story of Ruth Yancy, daughter of Cater Yancy, an employee of the local cotton mill and sometimes illiterate hell-and-brimstone preacher, and how she climbs out of her white trash life and becomes mistress of Fox's Earth, a white-columned house in the good section of Sparta, Georgia. Ruth used everyone, including her own family, to get what she wanted out of life without any compassion or feeling for others. The book follows from her early childhood to her death as an old lady of 85. A very good book. |
| fran |
| Flory: A Miraculous Story of Survival by Flory A. Van Beek |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A beautifully written memoir of a young woman and her husband's experience in hiding during the Holocaust. Her memoir captures the chaos and confusion in Holland during this time, the devastation to families as well as the generosity and spirit of those who risked their lives to help the Jewish people survive this experience. |
| Cindy |
| Kill the Messenger by Tami Hoag |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is my first book by Hoag, and I will read more of hers. A good thriller about an innocent bicycle messenger who finds himself caught with a vital piece of evidence between the police and a killer. There are interesting character dynamics going on, too, between the police partners, police departments, and coroner's office. Very good! |
| Liz DiBona |
| The Glass Castle by Jeanette Walls |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A great story about a sad situation. Every member of my book club said it was the best book in 2 years. Looking forward to her new one in the Fall. |
| Gail White ([email protected]) |
| Winter Soltice by Rosamund Pilcher |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
What a rare find this was! I don't know how I missed it before now, except that I have been into mysteries. Mrs. Pilcher is a wonderful storyteller and I could not put this down, reading into the wee hours till finished. I just started THE SHELL SEEKERS, which I thought I had read years ago, but it is also delightful! I sure wish she would write more --- soon! Loved this book! |
| Mildred B. |
| Thank You For All Things by Sandra Kring |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
An eleven-year-old girl is looking for the truth about her father. When her Mother and Grandmother go back to the family home to take care of her dying Grandfather, she hopes to find all the family secrets. |
| Linda H. ([email protected]) |
| Under the Radar by Fern Michaels |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
The latest book about the female vigilantes has the girls taking on one of the polygamous sects in Utah. As they download information and find that not only are young girls given in marriage to men old enough to be their grandfathers but all of these additional wives sign up for and receive welfare. The compound is known as Heaven on Earth (or HOE) and is headed by a man named Harold Evanrod, known as the Prophet. Using the monies received from taxpayers under the guise of welfare, the Prophet has furnished his home lavishly and drives an expensive Bentley. The sheriff and local doctor are all members of the sect and no one can be trusted. Since Charles and Myra are out of the country, Nikki has to get in touch with Charles' contact for help. This book is an easy and enjoyable read. |
| Susan Dyer ([email protected]) |
| Are You Afraid? by Carla Cassidy |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I just started reading this book and it hooked me from page one. A woman whose job is to help people over come their fears actually has a fear herself. Right from the beginning of the book, someone is messing with her mind and she relives her fear all over again! |
| Pat ([email protected]) |
| Serena by Ron Rash |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Finished it in one day. Could not put it down. Loved the ending as it was an unknown twist. Waiting for his next one, if it comes about? |
| Marion Miller ([email protected]) |
| The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Annie Barrows and Mary Ann Schaffer |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is one of the best books I've read in years! I enjoyed every minute of every letter. A must read! |
| Ana Marie |
| The Stone Forest by Karen Harper |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This book is about two teenage sisters, one of whom likes to sneak out at night to see her boyfriend, while the younger one covers for her. One nigh,t out of curiosity, the younger one sneaks out to spy on her sister. She hears sounds and thinks they are "love" sounds. All of a sudden, both sisters are attacked and kept prisoners in a dark cave for days. One is let go and the older sister disappears for what seems forever. Now, 15 years later, clues are showing up that indicate she may be alive. |
| Maria Bongiovanni ([email protected]) |
| New Moon by Stephenie Meyer |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is the second in the Twilight series about vampires. This second book continues the love drama between Edward and Bella, but a new character comes into the picture, Jacob Black --- a Native Indian in Washington state who falls in love with Bella and is trying to win her heart, even though he knows she is love with Edward the vampire. Surprise --- Jacob also has a secret, but you'll just have to read this book to find out what it is. You won't be disappointed. Now I can't wait to read the 3rd book in this 4-part series. |
| Patty Shogren ([email protected]) |
| Belong To Me by Marisa de los Santos |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A sequel to LOVE WALKS IN, but it's not necessary to read the first one. A great story with a few twists. Everyone needs someone to belong to. |
| Patty Shogren ([email protected]) |
| Angels & Demons by Dan Brown |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I'm not quite finished, but it seems to be even better than THE DA VINCI CODE. It's a very exciting mystery that is hard to put away. great summer read. can't wait to see the movie. |
| Annetta Stolpmann |
| Sudden Death by Allison Brennan |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Loved this book --- cannot wait to read the next in the series. |
| Susan C |
| The Help by Kathryn Stockett |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Excellent story of southern life and the relationships (or non-relationships) of the black housekeepers and the families they work for. |
| Judy Vianna |
| Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet by Jamie Ford |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Mr. Ford walks back and forth between 1942-45 and 1989 with ease and grace. He made us see that race is a minor item when it comes to love and devotion. The hotel is a wonderful landmark to a group of people who were wrongly accused. Wonderful read with an ending to please. |
| Barbara S. |
| Silver Bells by Fern Michaels et al |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I just finished reading SILVER BELLS --- the primary writer being Fern Michaels. Other stories were provided by Jo Ann Ross, Mary Burton and Judy Duarte. I love these books that usually come out around the Holidays with other authors contributing their stories. This is a great way to find out if the additional writers offer the writing style that suits you. I wasn't disappointed with any of the stories, especially the story written by Mary Burton. |
| Susan , Saratoga |
| Mrs. Somebody Somebody by Tracy Winn |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
These short stories are depressing and somewhat disturbing. They all center around residents in Lowell, Massachusetts. The stories kept my interest but it was not a "feel good" book. |
| Nikki ([email protected]) |
| Handle With Care by Jodi Picoult |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I was hooked by page 5 of this book and wondered why I waited to start reading it. Any mother who reads this book will feel Charlotte's pain and doubt about her child's future. While I found some of the sisters' storylines to imitate MY SISTER'S KEEPER (my all-time favorite Jodi book), the similarities did not detract from the story for me. The reason I'm giving the book 4 stars is the ending. I understand where it came from, but I found it very unlikely. I hope Jodi Picoult never stops writing! |
| M. Parks |
| Field of Darkness by Cornelia Read |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I enjoyed this novel very much. It is a murder mystery but the "detective" Maddie Dare is a very likeable character who comes from an aristocratic,Long Island family in decline, full of eccentrics. She tells you her money is so old that there's none left. Living in Syracuse now, married and working for a local newspaper, she feels the need to investigate an unsolved murder that may be linked to a much more prosperous and charming relative. |
| Julie H. |
| The Awakening by Kelley Armstrong |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Picking up in what seems like moments after the ending of Armstrong's first book THE SUMMONING, we find Chloe Saunders and her friend Rae captured by the Edison Group, the doctors who were conducting experiments on supernatural teens at Lyle House. Surprised to find former housemate Tori there as well (Chloe assumed she was the tattler on their original escape plan), the girls are eager to slip out of Dr. Davidoff's hands and find Simon and Derek. Davidoff plans on using them as bait to nose out the brothers, but with the help of half-demon Liz and a redeemed Aunt Lauren, Tori and Chloe escape and are reunited with Simon and Derek. The boys figure if they can reach their father's old friend, Andrew, he will provide help and answers. A bit disturbed by what they have already learned, Chloe and the others wonder how the genetic mutations done to them will manifest now that they are in their teens and their various powers are coming to light. |
| Judy Vianna |
| The Language of Bees by Laurie R. King |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I am an avid Laurie King fan and have read all her books, but her Sherlock Holmes and Mary Russell series is my favorite. After a long trip and an expected rest, Russell and Sherlock return home to find his bees are dying and Sherlock's long lost son appears and needs help, searching for his lost wife and child. Russell takes on the task at hand and gets herself involved with a religious cult, suicides, Bohemian London lifestyles and the secrets of her daughter-in-law's past. The killer is very dangerous and Russell puts herself in harms way to protect both her husband and her "new son". Not only does she solve this problem, she also solves the problem with Holmes's bees! |
| Pat Hill ([email protected]) |
| Intent to Kill by James Grippando |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Exciting, edge-of-your-seat suspense. |
| Patty Shogren ([email protected]) |
| Belong to Me by Marisa de los Santos |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A good story about friendship and love. A woman finds happiness and unexpected love with a young girl and an old friend. |
| Linda M. Johnson ([email protected]) |
| Tea: A Novel by Stacey D'Erasmo |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
I had no prior knowledge of this author. I heard a laudatory New York Times Book Review podcast of Ms. D'Erasmo's third book. I decided to start with her first book. It is the coming-of-age story of Isabella Gold, told in three sections: Morning, Afternoon, Evening and the three different girl friends who are close to Isabella at the respective time. In the beginning, Isabella observes her mother and the obvious unhappiness the former actress suffers from. After her mother's suicide, Isabella continues to dissect what she knows of her mother's life (her mother's ever present cup of "tea"; did her mom have pearls; the clippings and ticket stubs from theater productions). Isabella develops theatrical inspirations and a realization she may be a lesbian. Although very well written, I did not appreciate the explicitness of Isabella's sexual relationships. It matters not whether the sex is cross gender or not. I'd prefer if she just closed the door and left the bedroom scenes to my imagination. |
| Kay |
| Resilliance by Elizabeth Edwards |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is a compelling memoir! Elizabeth Edwards writes so well and so honestly about her life --- especially the loss of her son, Wade. She is a gifted writer as well as a genuine woman! The memoir is short, compact, and wonderfully written. |
| Kay |
| First Family by David Baldacci |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is one of the very best Baldacci books to come along in awhile! Sean King and Michelle Maxwell are searching for the kidnapped niece of the First Lady. The murder of Michelle Maxwell's mother also provides an interesting subplot. This is a very good read! |
| Bridget |
| Something Borrowed by Emily Giffen |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Two best friends from childhood are living the good life in Manhattan; one a lawyer, the other a PR person. One gets engaged to the other's "friend." Everything is good until the groom and maid of honor realize they are in love. A crazy summer occurs. Sounds hokey, but the author did an amazing job and everything seems totally plausible. The relationship between the two women is explored in depth. How they all got to where they are is also covered quite nicely. I could not put this book down and was a little disappointed when it ended. The upside is that there is a sequel that I am going to read! |
| Crystal Blackburn |
| Death of a Hussy by M. C. Beaton |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A Hamish Macbeth Mystery. |
| Linda |
| The Program by Stephen White |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Although this book was copyrighted in 2001, it is well worth a read. Not only was it full of suspense, but it taught me a lot about the Witness Protection Service. |
| Maria Bongovanni ([email protected]) |
| Twilight by Stephenie Meyer |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This was a very good book. For those of you who have already seen the movie, the book is much better. The main characters, Edward and Bella, are lovers who can't be together because Edward is a vampire. This was very fast-paced read and I couldn't wait to start the second book. Highly recommended. |
| Julia Desmond |
| Dreams From My Father by Barack Obama |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Our book group just completed discussing President Obama's book and everyone there agreed it was excellent. It was extremely well written and provided a myriad of historical data, which provoked both intellectual and spiritual conversation. |
| Chris |
| The Queen of the BigTime by Adriana Trigiani |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
An absorbing tale of a turn-of-the-century family and a rags-to-riches life. |
| Chris |
| Lucia, Lucia by Adriana Trigiani |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Wonderful story of Italian life in 1950s New York City and of a girl named Lucia, who learns some life lessons the hard way. |
| Cynthia Plaza-Harney |
| The Turnaround by George Pelecanos |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is a well-written book and it is my first from this author. I will say it is not my last book with this author. It is about six young men and how their lives change from one night. It takes you back to the seventies to today. It is a must read and I could see it as a movie as well. |
| Chris |
| Rococo by Adriana Trigiani |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Another saga of Italian life, this one set in the 1970s, revolving around Bartolomeo and his family. Bartolomeo, or B, as he is known, is a decorator and tells a hilarious tale about his family and its ups and downs. |
| Suzy Smith ([email protected]) |
| The Lost Quilter by Jennifer Chiaverini |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A bit slower to get into than Ms. Chiaverini's previous book, but it's far and away my favorite of her books in several years. |
| jhendrix ([email protected]) |
| Plain Language by Barbara Wright |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A story about a 33-year-old southern Quaker (Virginia Mendenhall) who traveled to Colorado to marry a 43-year-old rancher, Alfred Bowen, during the Dust Bowl of the 1930s. The depression , the drought, neighbors aand a troubled brother as well as unspoken confessions all create a real moment in time. |
| Chris |
| She Always Wore Red by Angela Hunt |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Second in her trilogy, this book continues the story of Jennifer and her boys, who have inherited a funeral home, moved to Florida to claim it, endured a divorce, then the death of the boys' father. There are new themes of dealing with racism, aging and infidelity, and some are covered better than others. Hunt seems to try to tackle a little too much this go round, but the book is still enjoyable. Good book club read. |
| Pamela M. Moore ([email protected]) |
| The Help by Kathryn Stockett |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I was impressed by this book, especially its use of multiple points of view and the smoothly flowing, rhythmic regional dialect. Is the author successful in the voice of black woman? Probably not, but she is quite successful in the voice of a woman. Especially interesting and accurate is the "tap dancing" of those trying to stay within the largely unwritten racial boundaries of the time. |
| Pamela M. Moore ([email protected]) |
| Mistress Shakespeare by Karen Harper |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I was impressed with the interweaving of Shakespeare's lines and the few facts known about him with this little known mystery involving Anne Whateley. While it is a work of fiction, it is fascinating and supplies many "answers," especially the ever-present, "what if...?" This is an easy read, delightfully filled with nuances and teasers for those who love Shakespeare. |
| Pamela M. Moore ([email protected]) |
| The Yiddish Policemen's Union by Michael Chabon |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This mystery keeps the reader stuggling to keep up with the Yiddish phrases and does not immediately draw the reader in. The fascinating part of the book is that the plot is predicated on an obscure proposal in history: populating a section of Alaska with displaced Jews after World War II. Thus, the entire setting as well as plot is fiction, yet based on a very real part of Alaska and the question "What if...?" Interesting. |
| Barbara ([email protected]) |
| The Big House by George H. Colt |
| Rating: 1 Stars |
|
Our book club selection; 100 years of Boston Brahmin summer house, boring! |
| Barbara ([email protected]) |
| House at Sugar Beach by Helene Cooper |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A great memoir about life in Liberia and a window into the causes of their problems. |
| Pret ([email protected]) |
| Dust and Shadow by Lyndsay Faye |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Sherlock Holmes vs. Jack the Ripper, narrated by (of course) Dr. John H. Watson. Any true fan of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and his infamous crime detective duo will not be disappointed in this book. Lyndsay Faye has delivered a well-written piece of Sherlockian adventure and has earned her place on Baker Street. |
| Vickie N |
| Prayers For Sale by Sandra Dallas |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This book is just wonderful. It is funny and sad and heart wrenching. The main character , Hennie, tells the best stories. It was such a joy to read. |
| Kellie ([email protected]) |
| Lisey's Story by Stephen King |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
I didn't hate this book and I'm surprised at that. It was long and drawn out in many places. I had a hard time figuring out whether we were in the present or the past, or whether we were in Boo ya Moon or the house. The concept of the plot was very odd, but I found myself feeling compassion for Lisey and the grief she was going thru. This is the second King book I have read, although I can't remember what the other book was, it was so long ago. I don't think I have read a book quite like this before. I don't think I'd recommend it to many people because it's so long and sometimes boring. But if you enjoy deep, somewhat depressing books with a taste of paranormal, this one's for you. |
| [email protected] |
| All Other Nights by Dara Horn |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Story set during the Civil War about the role Jewish soldiers and spies (some of them women)played in both the war and in attempting to assassinate Lincoln. |
| Julie M |
| The Weight of Heaven by Thrity Umrigar |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Umrigar has done it again, only better! This is a great book. Great characters and a heart-wrenching story. I actually gasped out loud at one point. I don't want to say to much about the story except, read this book! |
| P. Morris |
| Bobbie Faye's Very (very, very, very) Bad Day by Toni McGee Causey |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I'm re-reading this book along with the 2nd installment in the Bobbie Faye series --- BOBBY FAYE'S (KINDA, SORTA, NOT EXACTLY) FAMILY JEWELS --- this summer in preparation for the third book to be released in August. You'll laugh out loud; it's the perfect summer fun read |
| Sharon Galli |
| Dark Places by Gillian Flynn |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
DARK PLACES, as well as Gillian Flynn's last book, SHARP OBJECTS, are truly different from most fiction. They're dark, but hopeful. This one is seen through the eyes of an unfortunate character. |
| Gail |
| Home Safe by Elizabeth Berg |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A really enjoyable book, even though the main character and her daughter were somewhat annoying. I like the way the characters are very human and at least Helen is not afraid to share her fears. The story centers on Helen, a successful writer who is not only experiencing writer's block but is grieving the loss of her husband. She is having a true "crisis of character" --- trying to grow and find out who she is at the age of 59! Yeah --- not just teenagers go through this angst. |
| julie |
| Sweet Mandarin by Helen Tse |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A lovely memoir of the author's great-grandmother, grandmother and mother. This is a story of the struggle of these three Chinese women and how they survived hardships such as poverty and discrimination to create a good life for those who came after them. |
| Vickie N |
| Resilience by Elizabeth Edwards |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This was such an interesting story understanding her outlook on life. She has been through so much and has chosen to have as happy a life as possible in spite of everything. It was uplifting to read. |
| Joanne Friday ([email protected]) |
| Washington Weirdos by Gayle Wigglesworth |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
The author has created some fun characters that seem as real as your neighbors and co-workers. This is the second in a series about Claire Gulliver. Since they each have a different location, I thought I could start with the second. I want to know more about the characters' relationships so I am now looking for TEA FOR TERROR. |
| Marjorie Clark ([email protected]) |
| Never Tell a Lie by Hallie Ephron |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Just started, but appears to be a great thriller. I'm enjoying the first 35 pages so far. She also wrote another book named "1001 BOOKS FOR EVERY MOOD, which is a great book if you are undecided about what to read. |
| Marsha |
| Nefertiti by Michelle Moran |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
The story of Nefertiti is told in the voice of her younger sister, Mutnodjmet. Her ascent to the become Queen of Egypt, Daughter of Eternity by her relationship as beloved of Pharoh Amunhotep (Akhenaten), is a fascinating view of the inner workings of the life of the rich and powerful. She who marries money earns it. |
| Judy O. ([email protected]) |
| Borderline by Nevada Barr |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This book takes off at breakneck speed and never lets up until the exciting ending. Anna Pigeon has gone on a rafting trip to Big Bend National Park with her new husband, Paul. She is suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder after her last big adventure at Isle Royal National Park and has come to Big Bend to heal. Not gonna' happen! Their raft overturns in the Rio Grande River, and there starts the action. Someone is shooting at them with intent to kill, they have a new-born baby to take care of, and people are dying. This is a great, but exhausting read. I hope the author will give Anna and Paul a much- needed rest now. |
| narfie |
| A Reliable Wife by Robert Goolrick |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
An interesting novel, with quirky characters who are extremely unhappy with their lives. I kind of enjoyed the development of the relationship between Ralph Truitt and Catherine Land, albeit it was bizarre in nature. Strange, but kept the pages turning. |
| T. Thomas |
| Not Becoming My Mother by Ruth Reichl |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
I like Ruth Reichl and enjoy her books. This is about her mother and what, in hindsight, she learned from her. This is about an hour's read. |
| T. Thomas |
| Montana Star by Deann Smallwood |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This is a pleasant escapist read for an evening. The proofreading was not as it should be (seems to be more and more common in publishing). On one page the word gamete was used when it should have been gamut. |
| T. Thomas |
| Seducing an Angel by Mary Balogh |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This is the fourth in the series about the Huxtable siblings. It was not as good as the first three. The characters did not seem as well developed. |
| E.R. Streich |
| Losing Mum and Pup: A Memoir by Chrstopher Buckley |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Christopher Buckley celebrates the lives of his parents, givng us some really inside views of William Buckley and his famous wife, while also sharing his mourning with us. He takes readers on, what surprised me, an entertaining tour through hospitals, funeral homes, and memorial services, capturing the heartbreaking and disorienting feeling of losing both parents within 11 months. It is at times hilarious; moving; and pointedly sad, but mostly it celebrates their lives and his life with both of them. |
| Crystal Blackburn |
| First Family by David Baldacci |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A kidnapping tale that is really much, much more. |
| Kim |
| About Face by Donna Leon |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Number 18 in the Commissario Guido Brunetti mystery series, ABOUT FACE, will not disappoint fans of the overeducated, philosophical, pragmatic detective. Once again, Brunetti must work under the radar of his boss, the ineffective Patta, when the Carabiniere approaches him for assistance in an illegal garbage-hauling case that might be connected to the Camorra. Coincidentally, Brunetti's father-in-law, Conte Falier, is considering investing in China, a deal that would partner him with Cataldo a man in the shipping and heavy equipment industry, and asks Guido to investigate. Brunetti is reluctant but curious about Cataldo's unusual wife and it is this curiosity that pulls him into a knot of hazardous waste, dark secrets, and murder. Brunetti is left to untangle the red tape, dispel interdepartmental distrust, and to interpret what is not being said by all those involved. There are quite a few family meals, grappa, the occasional coffee and of course the backdrop of Venice to balance all the corruption and moral decay. |
| Julie Roberts |
| Obedience by Will Lavender |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I am reading this one again. It's such an intriguing story and the first time I read it, I found myself sure I knew exactly what happened and what the purpose was when I closed the book. After discussing it with someone, I began to ask more questions and decided to venture into it again. |
| Terri ([email protected]) |
| The Jew Store by Stella Suberman |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A memoir about the author's father and the dry goods store he ran in a small town in Tennessee during the 1920s. The trials and blessings of the only Jewish family in town make for a compelling and touching story. |
| Marisa |
| The Torso by Helene Tursten |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Tursten has written a series of police procedural/crime/mystery novels in her native Sweden. Now they're being translated into English and coming to America. This is a fanstastic read, very frightening and gory, but so interesting. Detective Huss is a female, mother and wife trying to balance the demands of home with the demands of the job. This particular case involves a serial killer with a penchant for dismembering the victims. The setting is Sweden and Copenhagen. I look forward to meeting more Detective Huss books. |
| Marsha |
| Road Dogs by Elmore Leonard |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
No one writes dialogue to match Leonard's. His characters come alive through their spoken words. However, I would have liked to have a better resolution to this story. It does, however, leave a perfect way to continue the tale. |
| Marsha |
| Gone Tomorrow by Lee Child |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Jack Reacher is back and better than ever. Not only is this a masterful tale, but we learn detailed information on the NY Subway System. |
| Marsha |
| Cemetery Dance by Douglas Preston & Lincoln Child |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I always look forward to a new adventure with Special Agent Pendergast and his cohorts as they unravel complicated plots. This one takes us to a part of Manhattan unknown to most of us. Quite the thriller! |
| Marsha |
| Cross Country by James Patterson |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I enjoy the novels written by Patterson alone better than his collaborations. ThisAlex Cross novel is quite violent but very thrilling. It takes us into the workings of the deadly African underworld of Washington D.C. and makes us aware of how fortunate we are to live in this country. |
| Colleen R. |
| A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I just finished reading this for the second time after 2 years. I will probably read it again and again every coupke of years. |
| Gil |
| City of Thieves by David Benioff |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
What I remember the most about this book is how cruel the Germans were to the civilians they conquered. And also, how uncaring the Russian officials were to their own people. All if this came across very realistically in the book. The "thieves" as the main characters, were very likable, their lives pathetic with their main goal being just to survive. Their struggles were heartbreaking. I think this book shows how bad wars are. |
| Julie Roberts |
| Still Life with Woodpecker by Tom Robbins |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Sometimes it doesn't seem to make sense, but give it time --- it all comes together. This is one of the most humorous books I've read with a smart, witty bit of writing. |
| Sandy |
| Mixed Blood by Roger Smith |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
You should be warned, there is a bit of graphic language and violence in this book, so it is not for everyone, but for those of you who realize that is part of the story this was a great read. The characters fight for their lives against a Cape Town full of corruption and gang violence. I can't wait for Roger Smith's next book. |
| Sandra Hughes |
| To Siberia by Per Petterson |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
The story of a boy and his sister who both want to leave their native Denmark --- the girl to Siberia and the boy to mysterious and exciting places. After their grandfather's death the family changes and eventually both the boy and the girl do leave and lose touch with each other for several years. |
| Lee |
| Searoad by Ursula K. Le Guin |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
A small seaside town in Oregon is the "sticking place" for this collection of short stories about the fragile lives we shape with others in love and fear. Passages about the sea foam women in the first and last story of the book are especially beautiful, but all of the stories are so rich in symbolism that this would be a fascinating book to share in a discussion group. |
| Merle |
| Lucy by Ellen Feldman |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Interesting vesion of the love affair between Lucy Mercer and FDR. You learn quite a bit about Eleanor and FDR through the estory. |
| Patty T ([email protected]) |
| Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I loved this book. It's about a high school girl who commits sucide. And how thirteen different people affected her life and her decision to die. If this book helps one person then it more than did its job. |
| Julie H |
| A Kiss in Time by Alex Flinn |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Another enjoyable fairy tale meets present-day story, this one harking back toSleeping Beauty. Talia is almost sixteen and like any teen, is tired of being bossed around by her parents and never being left alone. Everyone is so sure that spindle curse from her christening is going to come true. (anytime you snub a witch with "Mal" in her name, good things just aren't going to happen). Sure enough, as Talia is searching for gowns for her sixteenth birthday, an old seamestress lets her touch her spinning wheel. Three hundred years later, Jack and his friend Travis, while on a European trip designed to pad their college applications, stumble across a thick bramble while searching for a beach. After they make their way through, confused to the state of the people at the castle, they find Talia asleep. While Travis is off trying on the royal jewels, Jack kisses Talia, which awakens the kingdom. Talia's father is furious at her disobedience, eventually resulting in Talia's escape to Miami, where the fish out of water story then continues. |
| Linda Cunningham |
| Don't Look Twice by Andrew Gross |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Andrew Gross has learned from the best. I love all of the books he co-wrote with James Patterson, and all of his solo books have been just as gripping. |
| Linda Cunningham |
| Run for Your Life by James Patterson |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I am a big James Patterson fan, and this book was one of his best. |
| Linda Cunningham |
| The 8th Confession by James Patterson |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I love all of James Patterson's books, especially the Women's Murder Club series. |
| Louise Pledge |
| In Silence by Erica Spindler |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I enjoyed this book so much that, with my presently busy schedule, I carried it around with me everywhere, just for the free minutes I had to continue reading. A big city journalist returns to her small home town after her father's shocking suicide and discovers that maybe the perfect town has a few flaws. It's a real Whodunit with a surprise ending. |
| Carol |
| Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Have been hearing others talk about this book for years. It was not as "meaty" as I expected. A graduate student at Cornell is ready for the end of his days as a student when his parents are killed in a car accident. He just walks away from school trying to deal with his grief and anger. He hops on to a train, a circus train and the adventure really begins. He ends up with a pregnant wife, 11 horses, a chimpanzee, and an elephant--and couldn't be happier. |
| Debbie ([email protected]) |
| A Dedicated Man by Peter Robinson |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
This is another of the Alan Banks series, I purchased three, and I regret that decision. The stories are mediocre, other writers are a lot better. In this one, a wealthy professor is murdered. Many pages later, the killers are caught. The process is long and tedious, with very little insight or knowledge gathered along the way. I do not recommend this series. |
| Julie H. |
| First Family by David Baldacci |
| Rating: 1 Stars |
|
Oh, not the best thing I've ever read. The only character that was even remotely speaking to me was kidnapped, 12-year-old Willa. She had spunk. |
| Genie |
| Justice Denied by J. A. Jance |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This takes up where J. P. Beaumont has left the Seattle PD and gone to work for the state Attorney General's Office. He is still investigating homicides on the Special Homicide Investigation Team. Girlfriend, fellow investigator Mel Soames, is a partner both on and off the job. Mel's straight-shooting, stick-to-it attitude is the greatest help on both investigations as well as family disputes (and there are plenty of both in this book). What begins with the death of an ex-con turns into an investigation into a series of similar murders, all involving ex-cons who have served time for crimes against women. In between the twists and turns of the investigations, are old unresolved family issues. |
| Michele L. |
| The Inn At Eagle Point by Sherryl Woods |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Sherryl Woods has penned another masterpiece, called THE INN AT EAGLE POINT, situated in an enchanting town along the bay in Maryland. Familial love, friendship and trust envelop an endearing plot that will warm your heart. Abby O'Brien Winters takes a vacation from her Wall Street career to assist her sibling, Jess, back home in Chesapeake Shores from losing a Victorian Inn. Taking her two twin daughters with her, she returns to her family home to live with her Grandma while fixing the financial mess for her sister. What she doesn't expect is to see her long ago flame, Trace Riley. Trace still holds a special place in his heart for Abby. When the two of them get together, sparks fly.good and bad ones! Unsettled issues between these two adamant lovers make for exciting reading! There are twists galore involving family and Abby's ex-husband. I loved how Ms. Woods captured all the characteristics of broken relationships, the sadness, anger and resentment that can harbor over the years. Learning to trust plays an important role in the story. THE INN AT EAGLE POINT is exquisite, stylish and beautifully written with a heart-tugging story at its core. This is definitely a two-hankie story. Romance definitely walks in along with a breath of fresh air in this delightful new novel. |
| Genie |
| A Fistful of Charms by Kim Harrison |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Rachel Morgan takes on triple duty as she set out to track down her ex-boyfriend (Nick), Jenke's son (Jax) and the sacred werewolf artifact they have stolen. The theft has gotten them both imprisoned by Weres in Michigan. When Jenks insists on going along on the mission. Rachel decides it would be to their advantage to give him given human proportions. With help from Ceri's knowledge of demon magic, Jenks is transformed and he and Rachel begin their dangerous road trip. Finding Jax turns out to be the easiest task in an operation that quickly becomes both complicated and dangerous well beyond their expectations. This is a tale with many twists and turns and several sub-plots as the search begins and the mystery surrounding the artifact unfolds. As usual, Harrison combines suspense, and humor in a quick-paced story. |
| Linda Cunningham |
| Just Take My Heart by Mary Higgins Clark |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
As usual, Ms. Clark keeps you guessing until the end. |
| Linda L. |
| Paper Towns by John Green |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
My daughter (a soon-to-graduate high school senior) recommended I read this YA book, and I'm glad she did. Part mystery, part coming-of-age story, Green puts soon-to-graduate high school senior Quentin and his friends in a race to find a missing girl. It was a real page-turner with clever dialogue and sympathetic character development. I've added Green's previous novels to my reading list. |
| Bonnie |
| Resolution by Robert B. Parker |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
It's a 4-star story and very entertaining. But, I took away one star because it annoys me that virtually every character in Parker's books --- be they cowboy, detective, or hitman --- speaks in the same staccato, dry-humor, clipped parlance. Not everyone on the face of the earth speaks like that, entertaining though it may be. |
| Bonnie |
| Stone Cold by David Baldacci |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
An okay beach read. I could only give it two stars, however, because, while I read it only last week, I had to go back and read the cover and first page to even remember what the story was about. Not a good sign. |
| Mindy ([email protected]) |
| Inkheart by Cornelia Funke |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Still in the process of reading this, but am expecting the remainder to be great. |
| Michele L. |
| For The Love Of Pete by Julia Harper |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
FOR THE LOVE OF PETE is an exhilarating story of deception, car chases, murder and hot romance. When a baby girl is abducted from a man who is about to stand on trial against a mob boss, things go haywire. Zoey Addler, a verbally candid, red haired beauty jumps into a lush BMW with sumptuous Lips of Sin, FBI Agent, Dante Torelli, after eye witnessing her niece Pete, being abducted by a crazy, gun-toting man. They race down the streets, eluding the cops and hiding from crazy shooting killers. Sexy innuendos, hot kisses, tender embraces and sensuous glances, steam up the windows of the BMW, as Dante and Zoey spend quality time together in the bullet-riddled car. Ms. Harper employs a brisk, edgy style to her writing as she propels her heroes on the drive of their life. Other unexpected developments will take readers by surprise. There are wacky and dangerous characters galore along with unpredictable plot twists. I fell in love with the crazy aunties as they race to retrieve their illegal spices back. Ms. Harper has a special gift of making readers laugh at the antics between the bantering heroes as the story catapults along. Hold on to your seat as you go on a thrilling ride, for the love of pete! |
| Maureen H |
| The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie by Jennifer Ashley |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Having heard many favorable reviews, I decided to pick up this book. I was very happy with this story. Ian and Beth are a very likable couple. This is the beginning of a series and I am looking forward to the others. |
| Maureen H |
| Lover Unbound by J. R. Ward |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
I have been following this series from the beginning and loved the first 3 books. Books 4 and 5, however, were big disappointments. I will not continue this series. |
| Maureen H |
| Down River by John Hart |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I am reading this book from the recommendations here. I am sure glad that I did. This book is a very fast-paced page turner. It is a rare book that comes along once in a while. I am really enjoying this tale. |
| Michele L. |
| 4 Bodies And A Funeral by Stephanie Bond |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
4 BODIES AND A FUNERAL is a fast-moving, densely-plotted murder mystery that is full of fun, wit and sizzling escapades. Carlotta Wren, a feisty, sassy heroine, is at it again; moving bodies at night and working as a top saleswoman by day at Neiman Marcus. A murderer is at large and dead bodies are found everywhere. In addition, three guys are vying for Carlotta's attention and her brother Wesley can't keep out of trouble with the law. Things heat up between her and Jack, who is an undercover cop, when he moves in with her to keep her safe from the killer. Stephanie Bond deftly depicts the emotions of each character and the attraction they feel for one another. Carlotta also must decide if she still loves her ex-fiancé' Peter or not. The mysterious and handsome Coop, her body mover associate, has problems of his own. She offers to help him out. Her ever-elusive dad makes a sneak appearance and persuades her to stay close to Peter who might be useful in turning up information on who framed him many years ago. Twists and turns galore and gripping suspense with a pleasing love story at its core, fill the pages in this new novel! If you like a sharp, sassy, suspenseful read, then place 4 BODIES AND A FUNERAL at the top of your 'to buy' list! |
| Michele L. |
| Lord Of Legends by Susan Krinard |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Susan Krinard's new novel in the FANE series, called LORD OF LEGENDS, is a captivating, historical paranormal romantic tale filled with deception, passion and unpredictable circumstances. My interest was engaged from the very first page. Mariah, recently wed to Lord Giles Donnington of Donbridge, is deserted on the eve of her honeymoon. She is determined to remain stoic in the face of her mother-in-law even though she is trembling inside. Ms. Krinard skillfully creates an exacting portrayal of an independent woman and the obstacles she has to face. Arion, King of the Unicorns, also known as Ash, is a strong, powerful and seductive character. I was mesmerized by Ms. Krinard's teasing way of drawing out the true mischievous nature of Ash. He relished debating whether he was going to tell Mariah about himself. The intense relationship between Ash and Mariah kept me rapt with fascination as it unfolded in the story. As Mariah unravels secrets of this mystifying individual, she also uncovers facts about her own legacy and the part she plays in it. As the tale evolves, you will be completely captivated by the history of unicorns. Ms. Krinard weaves a tale so satisfying and ripe with romance along with a legend so intriguing that you will believe every word. |
| Michele L. |
| Garden Spells by Sarah Addison Allen |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Would you jump the highest fence to get to an apple tree that bore prophetic fruit? Southern girl Claire Waverley has such a tree in her backyard. She constantly buries the apples so no one can steal them. A mystical southern wind is about to blow into Claire's life and disrupt everything. GARDEN SPELLS is a brilliant novel --- rich in folklore, and a bone-deep examination of inner lives and the bonds between family members. Claire has tenderly built a barrier around her heart after being deserted by her mother many years ago. When her sister, Sydney, unexpectedly shows up on her doorstep, with a small daughter in tow, it opens a whole tidal wave of emotions in Claire's heart. The remarkable story of how the two sisters come to deal with their feelings for one another is very touching. The whole dynamic in Claire's life changes after she gets a new next door neighbor. It was interesting to see how she deals with her emotions while deciding whether to let this person in her life or not. Sarah Addison Allen has written an intelligent novel full of insightful passages of the heart. |
| Benita Glickman |
| My Judy Garland Life by Susie Boyt |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
It's a simple enough and an interesting memoir, but quite unusual in that Ms. Boyt's major life influence was Judy Garland, who died a year after her birth. The book infuses Ms. Boyt's autobiography with Judy Garland's biography. At times it is inspiring; other times, it is disturbing, but it is well-written and the photographs are memorable. |
| Beverly Rowe ([email protected]) |
| Genghis: Bones of the Hills by Conn Iggulden |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Wow! Can this guy ever write! He just moved to the top of my favorite author list. This is number 3 in the series about Genghis Kahn. Iggulden really did his research, and then made Genghis Kahn come to life. The characterization, plotting, pace and voice are excellent. |
| Kathy Vallee |
| Homicide In Hardcover by Kate Carlisle |
| Rating: 1 Stars |
|
This is the first time I have ever given this kind of rating, not sure if it was just me or what but the book was bad and I just could not get into it, could not get past chapter 1 so I will say I did not finish. |
| Kathy Vallee |
| Hounding The Pavement by Judi McCoy |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
The book is about a young woman who is starting a business of dog walking in New York. During her first few months, one of her clients gets killed and the dog goes missing. Now, she is a suspect. |
| Crystal Blackburn |
| Death of a Cad by M. C. Beaton |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
The second in the wonderful and funny Hamish Macbeth Mysteries series. |
| Sandra F. |
| February by Lisa Moore |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
FEBRUARY is a story of real people --- people who love, laugh, argue, shop at WalMart and Value Village and raise their children in the best way that they know how. FEBRUARY is also a story of loss and grief --- grief that is not of the moment, but rather of the decades. It is the story of three generations: Helen O'Mara and her husband Cal, who perished with the Ocean Ranger; their four children - John, Cathy, Lulu and Gabrielle - and their children. The novel has a complex structure where the past and present blend, sometimes within a single sentence. The past, the sinking of the Ocean Ranger in 1984, continually intrudes upon the present as Helen lives her life under a cloud of grief and survivor guilt. But Lisa Moore does not allow her characters to wallow in their grief, nor does her book at any time descend into sentimentality. Her characters are tough as befits the reputation of Newfoundlanders. Helen O'Mara and her children work through their daily battles and emerge stronger human beings. This is a wonder book of courage and sacrifice. The reader will come away from it with a renewed sense of hope and faith in the future. |
| Debi |
| BoneMan's Daughter by Ted Dekker |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Although the plot was intriguing, I found his writing style to be lacking. Trite expressions were used throughout, and inner monologues were too long. In this novel, a ruthless murderer who breaks his victims' bones kidnaps the daughter of an Army intelligence officer on leave because of a mental breakdown. |
| Bridget |
| The Lost Hours by Karen White |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Two stories in one (something Karen White does a lot and does well). Present-day story about an equestrian who hasn't ridden in six years due to serious injuries at her last event. She is researching her late grandmother's youth (second story that takes place in the thirties) and meets a man who is still not over first wife's death. They both help each other, solve a mystery and find a sort of peace with each other and their lives. |
| Mo ([email protected]) |
| Life Without Summer by Lynne Griffin |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
LIFE WITHOUT SUMMER is a story of a young mother who is dealing with her grief over the death of her 4 year old after a hit-and-run accident. The book uses journal entries by both the mother and her therapist, as well as dialogue, to set the stage and tell the story. The characters are well developed and the ends are tied up nicely in the end. This is therapist Griffin's first novel, and she writes very effectively. |
| Gaby317 ([email protected]) |
| Princep's Fury by Jim Butcher |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
As a recent fantasy aficionado, I am heartily recommending the entire Codex Alera series by Jim Butcher! The hero, Tavi, is a young boy without magical abilities in a world where bloodlines and power are strongly aligned with your magical power. Through his intelligence, strength of character, sense of adventure, bravery and sheer will, Tavi is able to overcome seemingly unbeatable odds against invading alien nations. He does this with his band of loyal friends, each also different from the regular Aleran society but with the same sense of honor and loyalty. |
| J. David |
| Curse of the Spellmans by Lisa Lutz |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I love this series! The Spellman family is seriously dysfunctional, but it works for them. The stories are funny but not necessarily light-hearted. |
| Betty Stern |
| Black Widow by Randy Wayne White |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Great action/mystery story. Doc Ford (former CIA agent), a marine biologist, goes to St. Arc, a Caribbean Island, to right a wrong against his goddaughter and her friends, who are all being blackmailed.. He meets several "characters" on this beautiful orchid paradise full of poison and rottenness. |
| Julie |
| Sweet Mandarin by Helen Tse |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is a wonderfully written true story of three generations of Chinese women and their journey from East to West. Very engrossing; I couldn't put it down. |
| DC |
| The Last Child by John Hart |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
As often happens, I had a stack of 6 books I needed to read and review. With my last pile, for some reason, this one kept getting pushed down under, and the other day I picked it up, finally, because it was the last one. And wow, it's a good one! The story is about a 13-year-old boy who is searching for his twin sister --- she's believed to have been kidnapped. All leads have been exhausted, the father has left the family behind because of guilt, and the mother is a pill popping mess --- now tended by a cruel rich man in town who abuses her and her son, Johnny. The detective originally assigned to the case, Clyde Hunt, can't let it go, is infatuated with the beautiful grieving mother. Common enough plot. Despite the usual conventions with a plot of this nature, this book works on many levels because there is so much more going on. We meet some very interesting characters and are taken on quite a wild ride. I cared deeply about Johnny, his friend Jack and about Levi. In some ways, this book is a study of the complexity of friendship and the nature of all kinds of love. Great writing! The climax is surprising because of the clever red herrings and the ending is touching, appropriate, and fulfilling. I recommend this one, giving it 4 stars only because the one part that I can't get past is the detective and his obsession with the grieving mom. She seemed a "damsel in distress" cliche, and I can't even imagine how she could still be so "beautiful" with all the drugs she was doing and she sure wasn't an example of a character with any depth. |
| DC |
| Child of Silence by Abigail Padgett |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
3.5 stars -- a manic-depressive child abuse investigator with San Diego's juvenile court system rescues a deaf child from a diabolical plot to kill him. Bo Bradley teams up with some unlikely allies to save Weppo from death by killers who are intent on finding him. The child is discovered tied to a mattress on an Indian reservation by an elder, Annie Garcia, who helps Bo solve the mystery of who brought Weppo there and why. |
| ck |
| Out Stealing Horses by Per Petterson |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Trond Sander bought a small cabin in Norway to be near the woods and river he remembered as a teenage boy during the last summer he spent with his father. He is now a weary, 67 year old who is haunted by memories. This is a quiet book with passages that haunt the reader. Petterson writes, " People like it when you tell them things, in suitable portions, in a modest, intimate tone, and they think they know you, but they do not, they know about you, for what they are let in on are facts, not feelings, not what your opinion is about anything at all, not how what has happened to you and how all the decisions you have made have turned you into who you are. What they do is they fill in with their own feelings and opinions and assumptions, and they compose a new life which has precious little to do with yours, and that lets you off the hook. No one can touch you unless you yourself want them to." Beautiful and insightful! |
| Michele |
| The Tsar's Dwarf by Peter Fogtdal |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
I really wanted to like this book about a dwarf in Russia; however, the main character was so unlikeable that it was difficult for me to finish the book. I do not recommend it. |
| Beverly J. Rowe ([email protected]) |
| Swine Not? A Novel Pig Tale by Jimmy Buffett |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
Marketed as an adult novel, this one is well suited to 9-12 year olds, but if you are expecting a great parrothead read, skip this one. I was really disappointed in it, and in fact, didn't even finish it. Kids book, definitely...and I am a died-in-the-wool Jimmy Buffett fan, but from now on, I will see if I can find an excerpt before I buy the book. |
| Judy O. ([email protected]) |
| Weight of Heaven by Thrity Umrigar |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Frank and Ellie Benton lose their only son, Benny, and are consumed with grief. Frank gets a chance to manage a factory in India, and they both jump at the chance to have a new beginning. Frank transfers his love for Benny to an Indian boy by the name of Ramesh. He soon becomes obsessed with the boy, thinking that he can take him back to America to be his new son. The consequences of this thinking are catastrophic. I never saw this ending coming. I have read two other books written by this author, and I look forward to the next one. |
| Anne-Marie Chandler ([email protected]) |
| Blue Smoke and Murder by Elizabeth Howell |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is Howell's newest book, and my first suspense read by her. It is very good and tells the tale of a young woman who finds the history of the paintings her aunt had supposedly painted by a famous Western artist, only to find a surprise. She receives death threats and has ST. Kilda Consulting help her. She falls in love with the op, Zach. |
| Jan Atkins |
| A Short History of Tractors in Ukrainian by Marina Lewycka |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Great, easy-to-read story of two sisters who haven't spoken to each other in years, who come together in a mission to keep their father from remarrying a much younger woman. I'm halfway through --- it's hard to put down. |
| Marion Miller ([email protected]) |
| Belong To Me by Marisa de los Santos |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
A lovely, well-written story with interesting characters. Was it believable?? I can't answer that. |
| Bonnie |
| The Bourne Sanction by Eric Van Lustbader |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Just what you'd expect from Bourne: a high-action, low character-development, heavily plotted spy mystery. Great for beach reading, then immediately forgotten. |
| Bonnie |
| Sail by James Patterson |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Typical Patterson --- it's an engrossing mystery, but the only difference from his others is that this one takes place mainly at sea. |
| Bonnie |
| Phantom Prey by John Sandford |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
Dumb story gets lost in the details of goth and dead people. Odd and funny, but I don't think it was meant to be. |
| Alison Callaghan |
| Sold by Patricia McCormick |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Right away, the reader is sucked into the main character's innocence, and when that innocence is ripped away, the reader is devastated. This simply written yet powerful story kept my glued. I read the book in one sitting. It tugs at your soul and makes you cry out in protest for all of the young girls whose lives are wrought with horrors most of us could never imagine. |
| Gail |
| The Book Thief by Marcus Zusak |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Narrated by Death, this book is an unusual twist on the usual World War II story. The book thief of the title is a young girl in Germany whose foster parents hide a Jewish man in their basement. Characters and relationships are well developed and the book has an important message about the power of words. |
| Gail |
| Made in the USA by Billie Letts |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
A girl and her younger brother take off to Las Vegas and try to fend for themselves after their absent father's ex-girlfriend drops dead of a heart attack in the middle of a Wal-Mart. While full of sad and tragic moments along the way, it is ultimately a touching tale of redemption. |
| F Tessa Bartels |
| Oh My Stars by Lorna Landvik |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This may be my favorite Landvik work. Reminds me of THE TALL PINE POLKA. Charming and thoughtful. Full of the drama of life. I kept forgetting that it's set mostly in the Depression and that was a bit confusing, though. |
| F Tessa Bartels |
| The Mammy by Brendan O'Carroll |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This is the second time I've read this (book club selection). I am still charmed, but find more flaws in the writing. Still, I want to read more of his works. |
| Bill |
| Gone Tomorrow by Lee Child |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A typical Jack Reacher yarn that starts with a bang and just keeps getting better. It was enjoyable reading about Reacher navigating New York City. |
| F Tessa Bartels |
| Crow Lake by Mary Lawson |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A moving tale of family drama, personal tragedy, misinterpretation and miscommunication. It's not a "happy" ending, but a hopeful one. |
| Charlie |
| Ivanhoe by Sir Walter Scott |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Another classic to sink your teeth into. I am also reading LE MORT D'ARTHUR by Thomas Mallory. I love this book because of the epic quality of the story. The fight scenes are wonderful and the gothic undertones are rich and rewarding to read. I love the era in which the story is set. I find that LE MORT D'ARTHUR is a little tedious, but IVANHOE is a wonderful counterpart to satisfy the mayhem and romance of the time period it is set in. This is a satisfying book and would make a wonderful summer read. |
| Jean M |
| Plain Heathen Mischief by Martin Clark |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
The book is pretty good, but the character is not as likable as the one in LEGAL LIMIT. |
| Terri |
| Souvenir by Therese Fowler |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Made me ask myself: if I were going to die soon, would I die happy? |
| Terri |
| Reunion by Therese Fowler |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A good book about learning to live with past mistakes and trying to be the best that you can. |
| Marcia Vola |
| The Book Thief by Makus Zusak |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A wonderful book about an eleven-year-old girl growing up in Nazi Germany. The narrator is Death, who is not portrayed as a grim reaper. This book will make you smile and also cry. Very thought provoking. |
| Mary Lynn Gerlach |
| Summer on Blossom Street by Debbie Macomber |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I have enjoyed all of her books. This one is right up there at the top like the rest. |
| Anne-Marie Chandler ([email protected]) |
| Whence Came a Prince by Liz Curtis Higgs |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Third in the series based on the story of Jacob and Rachel of the Old Testament. Set in 1700s Scotland with cousins Leanna and Rose McBride and Jamie McKie and the love between all 3 as each woman is married shortly to Jamie and then one dies tragically. This is a series that is good, better and best. |
| Lorna Lafond |
| The 8th Confession by James Patterson and Maxine Paetro |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This gets you all caught up with everyone. There are two cases going on for Boxer and Conklin. It keeps going back and forth, so pay attention. I always love the drama behind the scenes with the women's murder club. Cindy finds love(you may be surprised with who), Yuki finds someone but stops the relationship soon into it and its kind of werid why, and the saga doesn't end with Lindsey and Joe. As usual, you won't be disappointed. |
| Sharlynda |
| Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
It has been about 10 years since I last read this book. I am a former teacher and read WUTHERING HEIGHTS every year that I taught the book. I was in the mood for something to read that I couldn't read in a single sitting. And, I was in the mood for something gothic --- dark and brooding and wonderfully rich. WUTHERING HEIGHTS is one of my favorite books. If you've never read it, pick up a copy. The classics never go out of style. And, this is one of the best books I've ever read. It is a wonderful summer read! |
| Carol |
| Prayers for Sale by Sandra Dallas |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I picked this up after reading about it on Bookreporter, and I do not agree with their absolutely glowing review. It was fun to read and the dialect was especially charming. The story is of a woman from KY that moves to CO after the Civil War. She is in her 80s when she meets a young woman and befriends her. Her storytelling brings out all the coincidences that happen along life's way. |
| T. Thomas |
| Cemetery Dance by by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Latest in the Pendergast series. Very good. |
| Oarks Anne |
| The Reliable Wife by Robert Goolrick |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This book is truly a "couldn't put it down" story. The reader must read it carefully as suddenly the whole world seems to have turned around from what we read in the last chapter. It's a real winner. |
| Janice Hoaglin ([email protected]) |
| The Cost by Roxana Robinson |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This book is one of the most beautifully written, sad, troubling books I have read in a long time. This is the story of a family: ulia Lambert, a divorced mother of two grown sons; Julia's ex, Wendell (both Julia and Wendell, are professors at eastern universities); Julia's aging parents, both beginning to lose mental and physical capacities; Julia's somewhat estranged sister, Harriet; and the two sons, Stephen who is making plans to attend law school, and Jack, a musician and happy-go-lucky youth. As the story unfolds Julia and Wendell learn, to their horror, and slowly begin to accept, that Jack is a heroin addict. Each character in this story is so carefully drawn; we hear their innermost thoughts and feelings. At the same time, there is dialogue and action that moves the story along. It is sometimes excruciating to hear Jack's voice, the desperation and craving that are so strong --- as well as the pain of the parents who would give everything in them to help their son. "Cost" is about the cost to each of them, individually, and as a family, that must be paid to the beast of addiction. |
| Jo Ann |
| Close Enogh to Kill by Beverly Barton |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is one installment in a great series by Ms. Barton. It's full of suspense and mystery, and it keeps you on the edge of your seat. Can't put it down until the end. Her characters have charm, and you get to know them intimately. It keeps you guessing until the end. |
| Book Momma ([email protected]) |
| Wicked Prey by John Sandford |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Another great read in the Lucas Davenport series! It is so much fun to see his adopted daughter Letty grow up. This one takes place during the Republican convention last year, and features a really diabolical villain. |
| Patricia Beaver ([email protected]) |
| The Stonehenge Gate by Jack Williamson |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Intriguing story that reminds me a little of Stargate. |
| Rosalie Sambuco ([email protected]) |
| Streets of Warsaw by Steven Lee Wiggins |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
An eye-opening story of the Polish Resistance during World War II. This is a fictional story, but is based on true facts. The Nazis have occupied Warsaw for 5 years. Street executions are now taking place. For every German soldier, SS or citizen harmed or killed, 10 Polish citizens are shot. They are lined up against a wall in Warsaw and murdered. Bronek and Anna are working for the Underground, and this is their story. I highly recommend this book. |
| Debbie ([email protected]) |
| Blue Shoes and Happiness by Alexander McCall Smith |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
The business is booming at the detective agency with many small cases: the doctor and his prescription, the problem of a wounded bird on the preserve, and a chef being blackmailed. Precious uses her common sense to solve these cases along with the help of Grace. Precious espouses the traditional way of life where honesty and courtesy are always in force. I enjoy this breath of fresh air, and the reminder that it is the simple things in life that are so important, and that money does not buy happiness. |
| CC |
| Tea Time for the Traditionally Built by Alexander McCall Smith |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Reading the books in this series is like visiting old friends. Sit down with a cup of bush tea and catch up! |
| Carol Newey ([email protected]) |
| The Help by Kathryn Stockett |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is a great book. I can hardly put it down. One of those rare books that you are sorry to finish. |
| Sally B., San Antonio TX |
| Crazy For The Storm by Norman Ollestad |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I received the uncorrected proof from Bookreporter.com. A young boy is taught courage and daring by his Father through the sports of surfing skiing. The author switches timelines, from having exploits with his dad growing up, to when the boy is 11, and trying to get down the mountain after their plane crashed. The first half of the book lost me at times with the surfing and skiing jargon. But, halfway through, it got more intense (especially when the shorter chapters occurred). |
| Debbie |
| The Informant by Kurt Eichenwald |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A fascinating account of an international price-fixing scheme at Archer Daniel Midland. What is most amazing about this story is not the scheme itself, but the informant who, unknown to the FBI agents with whom he is working (and his family and friends), is a habitual liar and obviously suffers from severe psychological problems that lead to his undoing. A real page turner. |
| Rayna |
| Handle With Care by Jodi Picoult |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Good Jodi Picoult book. Hard to put down. |
| Bridget |
| BoneMan's Daughters by Ted Dekker |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
A dark, psychological thriller about a serial killer. A returning vet is trying to reunite with his estranged wife and daughter when the daughter is abducted. The serial killer is more clever than all law agencies, but the vet/dad does what he has to do. |
| Bridget |
| The Gilded Web by Mary Balogh |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A regency romance, but a step above the rest. A mistaken abduction leads to a betrothal with all sorts of complications. In the end, true love reigns supreme. |
| Darby Lohrding |
| Take My Heart by Mary Higgins Clark |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Great read; many different characters to follow. It's quite detailed, and as always, she has me rapidly turning the pages! |
| Jean |
| The Help by Kathryn Stockett |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Fabulous book! Definitely the best book of 2009, and it'll go on my all-time favorites list. This is a book you won't be able to put down and you'll find yourself lost in the storyline. Simply remarkable. |
| Sandy |
| The Christmas Sweater by Glenn Beck |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I listened to this one on tape read by the author. Very very good. |
| Sandy |
| A Pearl in the Storm by Tori McClure |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Tori crosses the Atlantic Ocean in a rowboat and lives to tell about it. She is a remarkable woman who has accomplished much in life but has also endured much. The story is quick and enjoyable. She tells of the trials of the trip but also the trials of her life. I am not a nonfiction reader, but this is a great book. |
| Ed Hahn ([email protected]) |
| The Cleaner by Brett Battles |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
A very good effort for a first-time author. The story moved along at a good pace. The characters were fairly well-drawn and some of them were memorable. The villains were appropriately evil though somewhat stereotyped. The plot was well thought out and developed slowly, but surely. The ending was surprising and unexpected. What more can you expect from a spy thriller? I suspect and hope that in future efforts Battles will go for more depth, particularly in his characterizations. I look forward to reading his next novel, THE DECEIVED. |
| Sandy |
| Final Breath by Kevin O'Brien |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I would have given this 5 stars except I figured out who the killers were 3/4 the way through. Very good summer beach read. |
| Ed Hahn ([email protected]) |
| A Morning for Flamingos by James Lee Burke |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This book exemplifies why I think that James Lee Burke is the best at writing mystery/thrillers. I don't know how I missed it: maybe because it was published in 1990 before I discovered Burke's talent. Dave Robicheaux is a conflicted Sheriff's department detective in New Iberia, Louisiana, who almost dies when a prisoner escapes. He goes undercover for the DEA in New Orleans on a drug sting, where he had been a policeman for years. He has two imperfectly understood reasons: one, to capture the escaped prisoner and two, to erase the demons running around in his head from his Vietnam experiences and his near death experience at the hand of Jimmie Lee Boggs, the escaped convict. In the story, he re-connects with Clete Purcell, his old partner from the New Orleans days and Bootsie Giancana, his fist real love. The story unfolds from there as he becomes aware of his own moral ambiguity when he realizes he has more sympathy for Tony Cardo, the target of the sting, than he does for the "suits" he's working for. Burke does a magnificent job of describing the environment Robicheaux operates in whether it's a Louisiana swamp, the Gulf of Mexico or the French Quarter and its bars and dives in New Orleans. It's a wonder how he manages to get us inside Robicheaux's head. Even though, the story is written in the first person, Burke manages to keep the reader informed of what is going on elsewhere. In the conclusion, Burke manages to tie up all the loose ends though there were times where I didn't know how he was going to do it. I know he won two Edgars with BLACK CHERRY BLUES and CIMARRON ROSE but, having read both those novels, I think this one is better. |
| Renee Lepley ([email protected]) |
| Look Again by Lisa Scottoline |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
LOOK AGAIN is the first book I have read by Lisa Scottoline, but it will not be the last. It is a fast read and holds one's attention every step of the way. Her short chapters remind me of James Patterson. |
| MJB |
| Sarah's Key by Tatiana De Rosnay |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A beautiful story told in parallels. Paris, July 1942: 10-year-old Sarah is taken from her home with her parents by the French police and arrested because they are Jewish. Thinking she would be home soon and trying to protect her 4-year-old brother, Sarah locks him in a secret cupboard. Sarah and her parents are sent to a holding camp where people are later taken to Auschwitz and their death. Sixty years later a journalist, Julia Jarmmond, is writing an article about the roundup of the Jewish people living in France. She finds a connection between her husband's family and Sarah's. She sets out to track Sarah down after 60 years, not knowing if she is even alive. This is a book you will never forget. |
| Theresa Norris ([email protected]) |
| The Help by Kathryn Stockett |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
THE HELP is about 3 women in 1962 Mississippi, and is also a wonderful story of the of time. You'll love these women, laugh and cry with them, and feel their fear as they try in their own way to change things as you cheer them own. |
| Bookfestival |
| The Girls From Ames by Jeffrey Zaslow |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
An amazing story of 12 women who have been friends for over 40 years. I will give it to my best friend. |
| Judy |
| Deep Waters by Kate Charles |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Another really good book by Kate Charles, with interesting characters, situations, and a good mystery. |
| Rebecca |
| The Girls from Ames by Jeffrey Zaslow |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Eleven women from Ames, Iowa share their stories and histories with this author over a year's period of time. It will make any woman who has sustained a long friendship with someone take its value to heart and also admire the author who was motivated in part to write the story by observing and wanting to understand his 3 daughters and their friends. |
| Kim |
| Nemesis by Jo Nesbo |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This mystery / psychological thriller is a page turner featuring Harry Hole, the flawed Norwegian detective and his partner Beate Lonn, in a convoluted race to track down a bank robber(s) who have committed more than one murder in the execution of their crimes. A complex story centered on revenge with surprising plot twists that rivet the reader's attention. This is the second book in Jo Nesbo's series, released in English, and it is recommended that REDBREAST, the first in the series, be read for the introduction of Harry. Could not put it down. |
| Jen Winters |
| Dangerous Curves: The Terri O'Connell Story by Terri Leigh O'Connell |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Terri O'Connell could have written a book simply focused on the fact that, until the early '90s, she was a he: J.T. Hayes, racing champion. But the gender change is only a portion of what turns out to be an epic story. Reading Terri O'Connell's memoir is like sitting down next to a friend and having her tell you her life story. Her narrative is warm and natural, with a good ol' down-home twang. As for the story itself, it is an incredible roller-coaster ride of emotions, challenges, near-defeats and, ultimately, victory. Terri explores deep South sexual politics, gender roles and how a person's sex influences his or her power (or the lack thereof), along with giving a bang-up account of life in the racing circuit. She would literally have me laughing to the point of tears on one page, only to have me crying out loud on the next. It's her story; told her way, in her voice. Terri's journey is one that I am happy to know about. As a fellow product of Corinth, Mississippi, I appreciate her oh-so-vivid descriptions of our hometown and love the fact that she preserves that rich, musical Southern accent in her writing style. As an educator, I'm amazed at how she takes a story that could be a one-issue narrative and opens it to explore multiple issues related to gender, power, and family dynamics. Not to mention, she taught me alot about the sport of racing! There are some proofing issues with the book. However, they never got in the way of the story. I was actually sad to finish. It was like saying goodbye to my new best friend. |
| Ann |
| The Well and the Mine by Gin Phillips |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I don't want this book to end -- at least until Gin Phillips releases her next book. I love finding a new author who writes with that "something special" that is so rare. |
| Linda |
| The Hound of the Baskervilles by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A real oldie, but still as exciting as it was when written. If you are a mystery buff, I would highly recommend that you read or reread this classic. |
| Sandra F. |
| February by Lisa Moore |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
FEBRUARY is a story of real people --- people who love, laugh, argue, shop at WalMart and Value Village, and raise their children in the best way that they know how. FEBRUARY is also a story of loss and grief --- grief that is not of the moment, but rather of the decades. It is the story of three generations: Helen O*Mara and her husband Cal, who perished with the Ocean Ranger; their four children, John, Cathy, Lulu and Gabrielle; and their children. The novel has a complex structure where the past and present blend --- sometimes within a single sentence. The past, the sinking of the Ocean Ranger in 1984, continually intrudes upon the present as Helen lives her life under a cloud of grief and survivor guilt. But, Lisa Moore does not allow her characters to wallow in their grief, nor does her book at any time descend into sentimentality. Her characters are tough as befits the reputation of Newfoundlanders. Helen O'Mara and her children work through their daily battles and emerge stronger human beings. This is a wonder book of courage and sacrifice. The reader will come away from it with a renewed sense of hope and faith in the future. |
| Debbie ([email protected]) |
| Gallows View by Peter Robinson |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This is a series set in Northern England about Detective Chief Inspector Alan Banks and his new job. After from the hustle of London, and he and his family trying to adapt to this new town. The story centers on a Peeping Tom, a rash of burglaries and a pretty pyschologist helping establish a profile. Robinson has been compared to P. D. James, but James is a better writer. Banks appears flighty, always changing his hobbies, a little too human. |
| Terry Cromie |
| The Ride by Jane Kennedy Sutton |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I loved this book! It made me laugh, it made me cry and it made me think. Barbie is a depressed housewife with low self-esteem and a failing marriage. A turn of events, a death, an inheritance, good sex, send her on a wild and unpredictable adventure that made it impossible for me to put the book down. |
| Judy |
| Perfectly Imperfect: A Life in Progress by Lee Woodruff and Bob Woodruff |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I loved this book. I may have read it at just the right time, but I could relate to so many of Lee Woodruff's stories of family life and those "boulders in the road." Her husband Bob Woodward, a journalist, was seriously injured by a bomb in Iraq and many of life's little and big things fell on her shoulders even before his brain injury. She is funny, honest, and someone whom you'll feel like you know. I really liked the chapter "What I Know Now," which talks about what to do/say (and what not to do/say) when others are going through difficult times. |
| Wendy from West Virginia |
| Saints in Limbo by River Jordan |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This book is an excellent example of why I love to read. It is that jewel that you mine through hundreds of other books to find. An interesting mix of magic, morals and spine-tingling suspense, SAINTS IN LIMBO is hard to categorize... and I love it for that. It feels like something new altogether. Buy this book! |
| Mandy |
| The Princess and the Hound by Mette Ivie Harrison |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A magical story, but not just your old fairy tale. The author gave a creative background to the main character, Prince George, and his soon-to-be wife, Princess Beatrice. George, possessor of the forbidden magic of talking to animals, visits the princess, whom he has agreed to marry so as to make peace between the kingdoms. There is a secret in the hound that stands obediently at her side, and George senses that from the start. Princess Beatrice is cold to George, but he attempts to befriend her through all that. Then a man from her past appears in George's life, and George suspects that the man knows the secret of Beatrice and her hound. Though he never could have guessed how. |
| Julie H |
| Godmother: The Secret Cinderella Story by Carolyn Turgeon |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
What if the version of Cinderella that has been passed down through the years wasn't quite right? Perhaps the fairy godmother didn't resemble a plump bag of potatoes and was constantly tested by her strong feelings for all things human. Lil is an old woman now, eking out a small life for herself in Manhattan, working at a bookstore, and always thinking of the past --- her sister and best friends. At night, she goes home alone to her apartment, sinks into a hot bath and lets her wings unfurl. Lil, you see, is that fairy who was destined to get Cinderella and the prince together, but something went terribly wrong. Now, with her apartment being sold and turned into offices, Lil begins to have a sense of urgency about her purpose among all these humans. Enter the luminous Veronica, the girl Lil believes will fulfill her destiny. The ball is a charity gala, the prince is Lil's boss, George, and Veronica will do nicely as the Cinderella stand-in. All around her, Lil sees sadness and glimpses of what she believes are the fairies, readying for the time she will finally rejoin them. |
| Renee Booker ([email protected]) |
| The Bond by Sampson Davis, George Jenkins, and Rameck Hunt |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
It was about three young men and how they have to learn to forgive and reconnect with their fathers. The young men made a new promise: to rebuild their relationships with their fathers. It was a good book for the ladies in my group raising a son alone and for others who have daughters. The book give us something to think about. For example, how a girl needs special love from a father. |
| Beth Gordon |
| Everyone Is Beautiful by Katherine Center |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Fun chick-lit book about a mother of 3 energetic young boys who moves cross country with her husband so he can attend graduate school. You will laugh and cry at Lanie's antics and experiences. |
| Phyllis |
| What I Did For Love by Susan Elizabeth Phillips |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A fun summer Hollywood romance. Georgia and Bram worked together in a sitcom until his bad-boy antics get the show canceled. Eight years later, they are both in Vegas and end up married. They agree, for their reputations, to stay together for a year. Full of fun characters in their lives. |
| RitaB |
| Street of the Five Moons by Elizabeth Peters |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
I love the Amelia Peabody series by E. Peters and thought that I might enjoy the Vicky Bliss mysteries. There is no comparison. Amelia and family and friends are so much better! Vicky Bliss is a beautiful, bright, cynical medieval art historian living in Munich who is constantly running into mysteries. She solves them with the help of, or rather despite the help of, her boss Professor Schmidt. Along the way she runs into international colleagues and her "mystery man," John Smythe. Smythe, one of many identities, is a professional con man. He will show up as Vicky's love interest in all her adventures and then, mysteriously disappears again. In Street of Five Moons, Vicky travels to Rome and investigates an art forgery ring run by a master craftsman. She boldly breaks into stores and workshops with not much care for her well-being and joins the entourage of a wealthy man she's just met. This is a light, easy read, but definitely not Ms. Peters best work. |
| Linda H. ([email protected]) |
| Don't Look Twice by Andrew Gross |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
As Detective Ty Hauck and his daughter wait in line at a convenience store, a truck screams into the parking lot and a man leans out of the passenger window firing several rounds into the store. After the shooter leaves, Ty finds that the man in line behind him was killed. In searching the man's pockets for identification, Ty discovers that the victim is a federal prosecutor. As Ty and his team follow lead after lead, the random drive-by shooting turns out to be anything but random. As the investigation continues, individuals suspected of being connected to the incident are being killed. DON'T LOOK TWICE is suspenseful book that will keep you turning the pages. |
| Robin ([email protected]) |
| The Catsitters by James Wolcott |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I'm only a third of the way into this book but already love it. It's like chick lit, but told from a guy's point of view, and written by a man. Very humorous. |
| GladysMP |
| Revolution In World Missions by K. P. Yohannan |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is a very thought-provoking book about missionary efforts in Asia. The author compares the wealth displayed in American churches to the poverty experienced in parts of Asia where native missionaries are working. The fact that only $30 per month can finance a native Asian missionary is enlightening. |
| Debbie |
| The Way the Crow Flies by Ann-Marie MacDonald |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This novel takes place on a Canadian military base in the 1960s. It's rich in atmosphere, has well-developed characters, and is part mystery as well. This is a long book but worth every page. |
| Linda H. ([email protected]) |
| Dearly Beloved by Wendy Corsi Staub |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Three young women have been invited to a weekend at Tide Island. The weekend is in winter and a northeaster is headed toward the island bringing snow so fellow tourists are few and most of the businesses are closed. The girls begin to have premonitions of disaster. As one of the girls disappears, the others want off the island but the ferry is not running because of the weather. The inn is not as it seems and the remaining women feel the trap. Who invited them to the island? And why? A very suspenseful book. |
| Debbie |
| Killing Critics by Carol O'Connell |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Normally I like the Kathleen Mallory novels but this was extremely gory, with at least one WAY over-the-top character, and the whole story line was, to me, on the far-fetched side. If you're new to this author, don't read this book first; her others are better. |
| Jenine Sjoblom |
| Angels and Demons by Dan Brown |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I am halfway through this book and it keeps me drawn in further as I read. It keeps you thinking and asking questions as it progresses. Quite a good book. |
| RitaB |
| Grave Goods by Ariana Franklin |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
This is part of the Mistress of the Art of Death series and I read it because it was the selection for our monthly book club. This is not the first in the series, and I haven't read the others. BR> Set in 1176, Adelia Aguilar is a trained doctor from the School of Medicine in Salerno. As this is not a womanly profession, Adelia is accompanied by her Arabian attendant, Mansur, her small daughter Allie and Glytha, Allie's caretaker. In this novel, Adelia travels to Glastonbury at the request of King Henry II. She is to inspect two sets of bones discovered there which are believed to be the remains of Arthur and Guinevere. Henry would like the myth of Arthur to be put to an end once and for all in order to quell the Welsh. Despite the setting of medieval Britain, the book is very easy to read, unlike many other novels set in this period. |
| Debbie |
| Hope's Boy by Andrew Bridge |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Andrew's autobiography of his youth mostly spent in foster homes is good for a while but then starts to sound whiny. He rebuffs nearly every attempt made to befriend him then complains about having no friends. He disparages the home he's in the longest and pines for the mentally ill mother who gave him up. There are other, better, books on the topic out there. |
| Janis |
| The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This is a YA book, but my book club is interested in this genre, too. It does a nice job of integrating classical mythology into a modern setting. This book is the first in its series; so far, I have enjoyed the Harry Potter series more! |
| Elizabeth V |
| The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
In an unusual writing style moving from the end of the story to the middle to the beginning to the end throughout the book, the book finally ends in the middle. Arundhati Roy's THE GOD OF SMALL THINGS tells a story of a well-off Indian family, most of it from the perspective of one or the other of twin children, one a boy and the other a girl. It's a dysfunctional family, of course, and just about everyone in it is more or less nuts. Except I'm looking at it from the perspective of an American, not an Indian, so what may seem nuts to me may be a cultural difference. But Roy does seem to criticize Indian culture, herself, when she shows us how a culture with a history of touchables and untouchables affects lives and personalities. The style as I speak of it sounds confusing and mixed up, but the book is not difficult to read at all. As a matter of fact, its back-and-forth movement leads to more suspense as Roy gives more and more hints about the middle and the end. THE GOD OF SMALL THINGS received many great reviews in the last decade (or more). And it is a very good book. But I wouldn't rate it a five out of five because I have a big problem with it. From the very beginning, Roy points out a difficulty with one of the characters and comes back to it again and again. Yet she never answers the question she presents to the reader. Most readers will be surprised when they get to the end of the book and may think they have a defective copy that ended in the middle because the character's life and readers' questions are unresolved. The book also annoyed me because Roy used so much pointless capitalization. At first I thought it did have a point: from a child's perspective, some words are a lot bigger and more important; they're proper nouns. But she did this so much, so often, even when we were seeing the story from an adult's perspective, that all those caps lost their intended meaning, whatever it was. This is a book that I wish I could discuss with other readers. I know there are many readers who loved this. |
| Bea Carroll ([email protected]) |
| Out Stealing Horses by Per Petterson and Anne Born |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Very well-written novel. A man reviews a certain period in his youth. We are pulled into the story, which alternates from the past to present, each time learning something more about what happened in his past. It is a emotional novel about unemotional people. |
| Eileen Quinn Knight |
| Little Bee by Chris Cleave |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is a great study in the complexity of another culture. A Nigerian woman meets up with a British family and the complexities manifest themselves immediately! The author helps us to understand how language makes a difference. It is a great read! |
| Eileen Quinn Knight ([email protected]) |
| The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer. |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is a wonderfully tender book about the relationship that exists on an island held captive by the Nazis. It tells of their literary society and the impact it has on keeping everyone feeling alive and safe. |
| Carol Grubbs |
| The Year of Pleasures by Elizabeth Berg |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A widowed woman sets off to make a move in the Midwest, as she promised her dying husband. She ends up in a small town outside of Chicago and here her life makes starts and stops: old friends, new people and facing life's decisions head on. She discovers that no matter how alone in life she feels, she is backed up by multiple people who only want the best for her. |
| Carole R. |
| Redemption by Laurel Dewey |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I scored an advanced copy of Dewey's sequel to PROTECTOR and I'm blown away. I absolutely loved PROTECTOR and wondered why we weren't hearing more from this incredible author. Seems she changed publishing companies and the sequel languished in limbo far too long. Well, the wait was worth it. In REDEMPTION, we find Detective Jane Perry still fighting her demons, but she's tempered by a fantastic "guest" character, Kit Clark, who hires Jane to travel to California to try and save the life of a kidnapped 12-year-old girl who Kit believes has been abducted by the same man who raped and murdered her granddaughter 14 years before and has been released from prison. As usual with Dewey's writing, the mystery of the story is secondary (still great, but secondary) to the strong, emotional core between Jane Perry and the main characters she deals with. Dewey reminds us that suspense thrillers can have a heart as well as a pulse when it comes to action. She never allows sentiment to become corny and creates situations that make readers think --- a lost art these days. Of course, the dialogue is superb, as with all things Dewey writes. I simply do not understand why Laurel Dewey is not charting on the New York Times Top Ten List. Maybe now that she's switched publishers, she will get the kudos she so richly deserves. I can't wait for the next offering from Dewey, but I guess I'll have to wait another year for that one! |
| Darlene Mour |
| A Cafe on the Nile by Bartle Bull |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A really interesting, can't-put-down historical novel. It has nonstop action and great characters. |
| Cuddy |
| Handle With Care by Jodi Picoult |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I have always loved reading books by her. She has such a great style. Current topics are always common in her subject. As a teacher, some of her earlier material is great for conversation with high school kids, even if it does hit home more than we would like. This is a great story about a child with OI..... guess you will have to read it to find out what it is really about! |
| Pat Hill ([email protected]) |
| Flipping Out by Marshall Karp |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
FLIPPING OUT is a murder tale. The wives of cops are getting murdered. |
| Linda H. ([email protected]) |
| In the Woods by Tana French |
| Rating: 1 Stars |
|
Three neighborhood children played together in the woods where there were old castle ruins. One day, something happened and two of the children were found murdered. The one remaining was found with blood in his untied shoes but with no memory of what had happened. This child (Rob Ryan) grew up to become a police detective with the Murder Squad. When a murdered child is found at excavated ruins close by the woods, Ryan is assigned to the case. At 429 pages, this book is rather long and boring at times. The author never did disclose what happened when the children disappeared in the woods. I would not recommend this book. |
| Linda H. ([email protected]) |
| Cold Pursuit by Carla Neggers |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Jo Cameron and Elijah Cameron were madly in love while teenagers but went their separate ways. Elijah became a member of the Army's Special Forces while Jo became a Special Agent with the Secret Service. They are both back in their hometown of Black Hills, Vermont. While realizing that their love for each other has not waned, they are called upon to solve several murders as well as look for missing backpackers. A good suspenseful read. |
| LORRAINE M. LAROSE |
| The Moment Between by Nicole Baart |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This book is awesome. A lot of sibling rivalry but the story goes way beyond that. Nicole is a wonderful writer. |
| Linda H. ([email protected]) |
| Bones by Jonathan Kellerman |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Alex Delaware and Milo Sturgis are investigating a body found beside a nature preserve. The body is that of a young woman employed as a piano teacher to a child prodigy. While investigating the woman's residence, the detectives found articles that indicated the young woman was not the shy piano teacher as was first thought. When three more bodies are found in the marsh itself, Milo knows he has a serial killer on his hands. Another good mystery by Kellerman. |
| Debbie |
| I'm Down by Mishna Wolff |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This autobiography is hot and is well-written and rather poignant, too. The author and her family are white but her father believes he's black, so that's the lifestyle they lead. Mishna has a hard time fitting into either black or white culture but ultimately succeeds, despite poverty and her quirky family, and her affection for her family is evident. Read this! And the cover is hilarious - yes, it's her, but the hair was photoshopped :) |
| Debby Creager ([email protected]) |
| Darker Than Midnight by Maggie Shayne |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A mystery in the best sense of the word. It keeps you hanging in there on the edge of your seat until the last page. |
| Elizabeth V |
| The Best Revenge by Stephen White |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A man is released from prison after he spent 13 years on death row for a murder he didn't commit. Or did he? Throughout, Stephen White's THE BEST REVENGE, it seems so, then it seems not, then it seems so, etc. And you'll keep changing your mind as you try to pick up the clues. I found, though, I missed plenty of clues when I thought White was just giving background at the beginning of the book. Read it carefully. Someone is making life miserable for the ex-con. Or are they? Why is an FBI agent interested in him? How can their psychologist act ethically knowing what he knows? A good mystery/thriller does at least three things: 1) it doesn't make you read several chapters before the action starts; 2) it keeps you from doing anything else because you don't want to put it down; and 3) it makes you anticipate what's going to happen, but what happens isn't what you anticipated. Halfway through this book, I thought it accomplished two of those things. It made me keep guessing, but my guesses were wrong, and I wasn't getting much done while I read it. I realized later, though, that mysteries and clues to the mysteries began at the beginning. I didn't recognize them. I'm happy to say that I found an author, i.e., Stephen White is a new author for me, and now I get to read the rest of what he's written. If you like a good mystery/thriller and you haven't read White yet, I suggest you do. |
| Ann Brim |
| Time Is a River by Mary Alice Monroe |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is a great book about a breast cancer survivor and her road to physical and emotional healing. |
| Ann Brim |
| Morning Comes Softly by Debbie Macomber |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I have not read a book by Debbie Macomber that I haven't liked. This is an easy read about a Montana rancher who put an ad in a southern paper for a wife. |
| Marcia |
| Tallgrass by Sandra Dallas |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
My book club just finished reading and discussing this book. It was a wonderful read and we all enjoyed discussing the history of the Japanese internment camps during World War II, a subject most history classes didn't cover. Good read and excellent discussion! |
| Paula P |
| The Stepmother by Carrie Adams |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This was a great book. It's the story of a woman involved with a divorced man who has children and an ex. It really made me think of how it could be very emotional and hard for someone to step into that place, having to deal with an ex-wife and kids. This book deals with many situations, such as dealing with an ex-wife who may feel she made a mistake and want the hubby back, teenage girls and their issues and family. I was anxious to finish and see how it all turns out. |
| Debby Creager ([email protected]) |
| White Witch, Black Curse by Kim Harrison |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This was classic Rachael, just better than ever. A lot of loose ends were tied up in this book and a new bunch of things were brought up. The most important thing is you find out what happened to Kristan. |
| Debby Creager ([email protected]) |
| Beast Master's Circus by Andre Norton and Lyn McConchie |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
One of Andre Norton's best for young readers or die hard fans like me. |
| RitaB |
| Trojan Gold by Elizabeth Peters |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
In this mystery, Vicky Bliss is off to Bavaria for Christmas and to investigate a murder and the mysterious appearance of a Trojan necklace that vanished around the end of WWII. She "coincidentally" meets up with her international art historian colleagues and her "mystery man" John Smythe. A light, easy, read. |
| Elizabeth V |
| Hollywood Station by Joseph Wambaugh |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Joseph Wambaugh's HOLLYWOOD STATION, a novel he wrote in 2006, is fiction. But so much of it is nonfiction. This book is about life at the Hollywood Division of the Los Angeles Police Department, post-Rodney King, post-9/11, and some of the cases they encounter. Because I lived in San Diego for 20 years, I heard from afar (but close enough to get KFI, an LA talk radio station) about all the demoralizing political correctness going on at the LAPD post-Rodney King, post-9/11. But this book is a look from within the LAPD rather than from outside. And all the police dialog sounds so authentic, I'm sure it can't be fiction. Wambaugh had lots of conversations with LA (and other) cops, and I could tell that what I read was based on them. I've always enjoyed Wambaugh's nonfiction and didn't think I'd care for this book. But HOLLYWOOD STATION was so real, it didn't feel like fiction. |
| Fran |
| Married to a Stranger by Nahid Rachlin |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A young Iranian woman is allowed to select her own husband, despite family pressures for an arranged marriage. This is the story of her disillusionment with her relationship with her husband in a land of oppression. I'm always fascinated by tales of the lives of women in the Middle East. |
| Jud Hanson |
| The Lost Constitution by William Martin |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
The book is very interesting, considering the current political climate surrounding gun control. The plot focuses on an antique book seller who goes in search of a "lost" Constitution, which he hopes will clear up some of the ambiguities in the current version. Unfortunately, opponents of the effort to repeal the 2nd Amendment are also looking for it and will stop at nothing to get it. |
| Genie ([email protected]) |
| Three Bedrooms One Corpse by Charlaine Harris |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Former librarian Aurora Teagarden is helping her mother Aida, a busy real estate agent in Lawrenceton, Georgia. While showing a house, Aurora discovers the naked corpse of a rival realtor in the master bedroom. Somewhat shaken up but determined to investigate the crime, Aurora and her mom determine the crime must have been done by another real estate agent who had access to the key file in Aida's office. When the body of another realtor is found in another vacant house for sale, Aurora's distress intensifies along with her growing attraction to the mysterious Martin Bartell. This turns Aurora's personal life upside down as she must choose between the dependable, uncomplicated Episcopalian minister whom she has been dating and Martin, whose job responsibilities at the local plant have made him a target for disgruntled ex-employees. Meanwhile, she and her mother question Aida's staff as well as realtors from rival firms in an effort to determine the identity of the killer. |
| Genie |
| Bone Crossed by Patricia Briggs |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is the fourth adventure for kick-ass shapeshifting-coyote auto mechanic Mercedes Thompson. In the process of slowly healing in body and spirit after a brutal beating and rape (in Iron Kissed ), Mercy has decided to accept the marriage proposal of alpha werewolf Adam Hauptman. An old college friend suddenly shows up on her doorstep to ask for her help with a ghost that is haunting her house. The timing is good as Mercy hopes to avoid meeting vampire queen Marsilia. Marsilla is angry at Mercy and her vampire friend Stefan for hunting down and killing a monster who was supposed to have killed them. Mercy leaves Adam to negotiate a peace treaty between the vampires and the werewolves and heads to Spokane, Wash., to investigate the ghost. What she thought was going to be an easy task, turned into an unexpectedly complicated and dangerous situation. This is an intriguing tale filled with action, danger and insights into the complex preternatural culture of vampire seethes and wolf pack politics. |
| Genie |
| Damsels in Distress by Joan Hess |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Arkansas bookseller Claire Malloy spends almost as much time solving crimes as she does selling books. This does not make for a peaceful relationship with her husband to be, police detective Peter Rosen. What harm could come from a local Renaissance fair in Farberville, Arkansas? Only Claire would stumble upon Edward Cobbinwood, a member of the Renaissance fair group who confides that he has come to Farberville in search of his long-lost father. Claire feels sorry for Edward's plight and decides to help him. While she spends time with the fair's organizers hoping to discover some leads, a house fire claims the life of a mysterious woman named Angie who is working on festival entertainment. A subsequent murder of a local artist who, as it turns out, admitted he was Edward's father, severely complicates everything. While sidestepping attempts to keep her out of the investigation, Claire, as usual, discovers the identity of the killer. |
| john kelly |
| The Pauper's Graveyard by Gemma Mawdsley |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Gemma Maudsley is a welcome new talent to the chiller genre. After THE PAUPER'S GRAVEYARD, I expect to hear and read a lot more from her. |
| Louise |
| Tender Triumph by Judith McNaught |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Judith McNaught is always delightful, insightful and has great plots. I was a little put off by the characters in this one. But a spoiled, rather bigoted beauty, finally got her head together and discovered what was REALLY important. |
| Louise Pledge |
| Stripped Bare by Lowri Turner |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
English novels are often a little hard for me to enjoy, and this was too, even though I was familiar with the part of London most of takes part in. It's the story of three girls who work together on a tv show and the unexpected twists in their lives. The author does have an amusing style of writing. |
| Enid Grabiner |
| Look Again by Lisa Scottoline |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is a riveting novel of an adoptive mother discovering a disturbing link to her son's past, setting her onto a journey she almost wished she had never began. I read it straight through and it has haunted me since. |
| Genie |
| Malpractice in Maggody by Joan Hess |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Arly returns from a camping trip with her boyfriend, Jack, to find the Maggody town folk stirred up. The local nursing home has been sold to a snarky diet doctor who plans to transform the building into an upscale rehab center called the Stonebridge Foundation. His plans begin to fall apart when the Stonebridge receptionist is found drowned in the courtyard fountain. The atmosphere of the place takes on a even more sinister air when a second body is discovered in the staff quarters. Dragged into the investigation by the county sheriff, Arly struggles to keep her mother, Ruby Bee, and Ruby's best friend, Estelle, away from the scene and out of the way of the investigation. As usual, this proves to be impossible. There are several other sub plots going on involving the other zany characters of the town. Kevin's mother, Eileen, has decided to run away from home. Mrs. Jim Bob and Brother Verber decide to conduct an investigation of their own of the facility causing Arly even more trouble. The main problem with this book is it isn't a stand alone mystery tale. In order to understand the relationships between the main characters, the reader really needs to have read the other books in the series. In my opinion, this is not one of the the best books of the series. This one dragged a bit. |
| Genie |
| The Frumious Bandersnatch by Ed McBain |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Tamar Valparaiso is on the threshold of stardom. Her new album and video are about to be released. The manager of her recording company has rented a yacht for a chic launch party and the press corp is there to cover the festivities. Tamar is performing a live version of her fantasy video when three armed / masked intruders kidnap her and escape on a speedboat. Steve Carella and Cotton Hawes of the 87th Precinct are assigned to the case. In spite of the dozens of eyewitnesses, the kidnappers were wearing gloves so there are no fingerprints. Kidnappings are usually handled by the FBI, however, Tamar's agent insists that the feds keep Carella and Hawes on the case. Tape of the kidnapping is replayed thousands of times on television. Within hours, Tamar goes from unknown to megastar. As Carella and Hawes track down the kidnappers, McBain expresses his own opinion of how broadcast news, the music industry, federal bureaucrats, and the Patriot Act contribute to impending disaster. As always, McBain wrote an excellent hard-core detective tale while at the same time giving readers insight into the private lives of the detectives in the 87 Precinct squad. |
| Debbie ([email protected]) |
| First Family by David Baldacci |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
The continuing saga of private investigators, Michelle and Sean, puts them helping the First Lady to recover her kidnapped niece. A bitter father, Sam Quarry, seems revengeful for his comatose daughter, Tippi. The story has many twists and turns---the murder of Michelle's mother. As usual, Baldacci weaves a fabulous story of love, hate, forgiveness, revenge, and honor. |
| Julie H. |
| Jane Austen Ruined My Life by Beth Pattillo |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Emma Douglas, a Jane Austen scholar and professor of English, finds herself on a flight to London after her husband's affair with a university TA ends their marriage. Emma has been approached by a woman claiming to have many of the lost letters of Jane Austen, a gold-mine of a find for an Austen scholar. Emma meets the eccentric Mrs. Parrot and is sent on several mysterious tasks to deem her worthy of the huge responsibility of seeing all of the letters. Emma stays in her cousin Anne-Elise's apartment and of all things, a decade old flame, Adam, has arrived at the same time. Emma discovers a bit about herself while researching and visiting many Austen sites for the first time. |
| Julie H. |
| Misery Loves Cabernet by Kim Gruenenfelder |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Charlie Edwards is still recording nuggets of wisdom (mostly about dating and men) for her future great-granddaughter. Having just survived her sister Andy's wedding, Charlie, even with her foibles and uncertain future with new boyfriend Jordan, seems to be a solid fixture, as the zany cast of characters weave this somewhat chaotic, chick-lit story around her. Whether it's a hippo in Brentwood or trying to devise a budget for her boss, Charlie handles each hurdle with a lot of humor. As she muddles her way through life, she is learning something about herself almost everyday, including the realization that her dream of being a producer may not be so far off after all. |
| sandi |
| Stop Growing Older...Grow Younger! by J. Collin Towers |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
The book has so much information for all ages. It will help the young stay younger and the old stop aging and feel younger. You can save money on your supplements and the book will pay for its self many times over. |
| Louise Pledge |
| Living Dead in Dallas by Charlaine Harris |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Seeing how popular Ms. Harris's books were, I couldn't wait to read one. Maybe I picked the wrong one, but I wasn't enchanted. It wasn't the fantasy creatures that put me off, but the slowness of the plot. I almost gave it up several times. |
| Jud Hanson |
| Napoleon's Pyramids by William Dietrich |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This Indiana Jones-style plot keeps you wanting more throughout. The main character, Ethan Gage, wins a mysterious medallion in a card game. When he's framed for murder, he signs on with Napoleon's quest to conquer Egypt. Throughout the trip he learns the truth behind the medallion and the secrets it may unlock. |
| Patti D |
| Twilight Series by Stephenie Meyer |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I am just finishing BREAKING DAWN. I cannot say enough about these books; although, it was the movie that peaked my interest. Like the Harry Potter books, the movie just leaves so much out. |
| Kay |
| Borderline by Nevada Barr |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Nevada Barr's novels are always outstanding and this one is no exception. Anna and Paul are river rafting in Big Bend National Park when the drama begins. Barr is a master writer! |
| Juanita |
| Water For Elephants by Sara Gruen |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Great book! We loved it at our book club --- one of our better discussions! |
| Richard Grabowski |
| City of Fire by Thomas Fitzsimmons |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This contemporary thriller is set on the mean streets of New York. The characters are fresh, quirky and appealing, the plot straight forward. As an ex-cop who led the life, I couldn't put it down. |
| Sara M |
| The Walking People by Mary Beth Keane |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Mary Beth Keane titles her debut, THE WALKING PEOPLE in reference to a class of Irish (also called Travellers or Tinkers) who refuse to settle, but instead roam Ireland for the entirety of their lives. These people experience extreme prejudice from those who are settled. The world of the settled and the traveled combine launching the exposition in this extraordinary novel characterizing the modern Irish Immigrant experience as well as complexity of love within familial relationships. Greta and her sister Joanna are the last inhabitants of an abandoned Irish village. Michael is a traveler desperate to establish roots who settles amongst Greta's family. Joanna compels both of them to immigrate to America where Joanna struggles eventually returning to Ireland, and yet Greta comes into her own building a life with Michael. However, Greta's life is precariously built on one explosive familial secret destined to be revealed. This novel begins with Michael's struggle with Alzheimer's, which begat a slow start. It is required that you slug through the first part of the book to get a handles on the story's events. This beginning also negates climatic tension as we more or less figure how the story panned itself out. That said the diligent reader will be rewarded. Keane's writing is steady and the story she tells moving. The characterization of Keane's subjects is solid with Greta being intensely likable. The Walking People is a worthy read, and Keane is a promising talent. |
| Shyeyes |
| Long Lost by Harlan Coben |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Good grabber, takes you from the front page to the back flap wanting to find out what will happen next! As usual, another good read. This book has us involved with Myron Bolitar the excop who gets a call to go to London to help an old girlfriend he hasn't seen in 10 years. |
| Judy O. ([email protected]) |
| Rooftops of Tehran by Mahbod Seraji |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Much of this story takes place on the rooftops of homes in Iran. Pasha Shahed falls in love with his neighbor Zari, who has been betrothed since birth to a man nicknamed "Doctor," Since Pasha does not want to betray either of these two people, he worships Zari from afar. There is also danger from the Shah's secret police, and violent consequences ensue. This is a very heart-warming book of deep and extreme friendships and love. |
| Loretta Sanford ([email protected]) |
| Molokai by Alan Brennert |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Molokai is the Hawaiian Island where lepers were sent in the late 19th century and in the 20th century. The main character, Rachel, leads an extraordinary life. She is of Japanese heritage and lives there from the age of 7 until she is "paroled" at 60. She is a character worth knowing. Don't let the idea of leperosy turn you off --- Rachel *lives* her life and builds her ohana (family) with wonderful characters. |
| Debbie ([email protected]) |
| 7th Heaven by James Patterson |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This was an interesting, sad and twisted story. It centers on the disappearance of a young man who has heart problems and encompasses two college boys killing rich people and setting the house on fire. Claire has her baby girl and Yuki tries romance only to be involved with a maniac. Lindsay must decide between Joe and Rich --- a very difficult decision. I must state, again, that I adore the short, terse chapters. Before you discover, the book is almost completed. But, I am puzzled with the ending, and may need to e-mail Patterson. Or can another reader explain? |
| T. Thomas |
| At Last Comes Love by Mary Balogh |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Third in the series about the Huxtable family. |
| Samantha Morris |
| The Memory of Water by Karen White |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I have been meaning to read this book for a while, and I am so glad I finally got around to it. This is a gripping and poignant story about a family broken apart by tragedy. The love that binds the two sisters in the center of the novel is painful at times as they try to work through memories of the sailing accidents that tore them apart. The love they still have for each other and for an ex-husband and little boy is what propels them forward. This is one of those books you get engrossed in and read in one sitting. |
| Samantha Morris |
| Blood of Flowers by Anita Amirrezvani |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
BLOOD OF FLOWERS is the story of a village girl in 17th-century Persia. She and her mother must leave their small town for the city to live with relatives after the death of her father. The matriarch of the household treats them like servants, but the girl plans to use her skill as a rug-maker to earn money for a dowry and change their fortunes. After a series of setbacks and heartbreaks, including a form of temporary marriage she was forced to enter, the girl and her mother find themselves out on the street. Friends take them in out of kindness, and the girl works harder than ever to repay them and improve their living conditions. At the same time, she tries to rebuild her relationship with her uncle--another rug-maker who mentored her for a time. Older and wiser, she finds happiness in her craft and in herself. This book does a wonderful job of painting a vivid picture of life for women in Persia in the 17th century. She uses her protagonist to convey the hopes and dreams, as well as fears and limitations of women in that society. I actually listened to this book on CD while on a long car ride and found that format particularly suitable for this book. The narrator's slight accent and correct pronunciation of Farsi words constantly reminds the listener of the setting of the action. |
| Debbie ([email protected]) |
| In the Company of Cheerful Ladies by Alexander McCall Smith |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This installment brought Precious and Note together, and Precious was finally able to put the past behind. Grace started dancing lessons and befriended a shy man. These stories display the old traditions of hospitality, friendship, and honesty; and how many of these qualities seem to be disappearing. I love the common sense approach to life that rules Precious's life. |
| Ellen Derrick |
| The Help by Kathryn Stockett |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This character-driven novel begins in 1962 and is written in the first person by three totally different women. Two are black domestics who work for white families and raise their children. One is a white woman who wonders if they would like things to change --- and delves into that. It takes place in Jackson, Mississippi, right when civil rights were becoming the topic of the decade. A delightful read with insights into that time period that cause me amazement and shame --- that life could have been like that during my lifetime. |
| Donna |
| The 5th Horseman by James Patterson and Maxine Paetro |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
If you have not tried any of James Patterson's books, this is a great series. Every one from "1ST TO DIE" to the latest "THE 8TH CONFESSION" (that I cannot wait to read) is thrilling from the very first. |
| Judy Berg |
| Stop Growing Older...Grow Younger by J Collin Towers |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Lots of interesting things in this book. |
| Judy ([email protected]) |
| The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Reclusive author Vida Winter is now old and ready to reveal the truth about herself by inviting Margaret Lea, who herself has a mystery surrounding her, to write the truth of her life. The book takes you back to a very dysfunctional privilaged family. The story takes you thru child neglect, cruelty, incest, and insanity to make you wonder how Miss Winters could write twelve tales of such popular demand. Her promise of a thirteenth has the public waiting impatiently. All the clues are there for you to see if you look for the surprising ending. |
| Jessica |
| When We Were Romans by Matthew Kneale |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A touching story from a narrator like no other--11-year-old Lawrence. The reader experiences things exactly as Lawrence does, which can at times mean clever distortions of your perceptions of what is really going on in his world. If you liked Mark Haddon's THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHT-TIME, you'll love this book. |
| Betty S. Burrier |
| Plea of Insanity by Jilliane Hoffman |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I loved this book from the start to where I am almost finished. It is really intense and very suspenseful. |
| Eric Jones, BookReview.com |
| Return of the Dittos by Dale Andrew White |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
From BookReview.com: Dale Andrew White revives a dying breed of comedy with his book, "Return of the Dittos", and demonstrates his own particular brand of style in doing so. Much of the book is a throw back to the style of "gotcha!" humor that became popular in the 50's, and it embraces its somewhat antiquated motif through the double entendre of its title. "Return of the Dittos" refers to a short story about a reunion show called 'Eat Your Peas' which was known for its hum-drum puns and family (the Dittos) situational comedy during the 70's. It also seems to refer to the revival of that type of comedy, presented in White's parade of alliterative jokes and thoroughly engaging silliness. The great thing about the one-liners and stylized turn of phrase that White is a master of is that the book is utterly enjoyable in any aspect of its reading. Like a well written joke book, you can open to any singular page to get a quick chuckle at turns of phrase like "if that doesn't scare you, let me remind you that I'm in a strategic location. Your brain. One false move up her and, oops, I've caused a hemorrhage. So, so sorry." In addition to working at the singular phrase level, White's stories are routinely quick and simple. All of them work like extended knock-knock jokes, delivering gag after gag until the story's end. The funniest ones are the shorter ones, which deliver a quick set up and knock down that short jokes require. Stories like "An Unlikely Story", "Infatuated", and "To the Manor Admitted", are funny on premise alone, and don't outlast their welcome. There are great longer ones as well. "The Labors of Peon" is probably my favorite, but since longer stories tend to work against White's quick wit humor, they can feel a little longer than they really are. Still, you'll find any of these stories a worthy read if you're a fan of puns or of non-committal lightning fast reading. White has a wonderful talent for engaging the unexpected, and his quick turns are wild and fun. Nothing leaves with you when you put the book down, although you may find yourself remembering parts of it with a chuckle. With the outrageous nothingness of shows like 'Seinfeld' fitted with a style of retro humor that calls back 'The Brady Bunch', 'Return of the Dittos' strikes a balance between contemporary and fine aged humor that can't be found anywhere else and is as refreshing as it is funny. |
| smeyers |
| Dead Until Dark by Charlaine Harris |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I really liked this series. It is about a human waitress and her escapades with vampires, werewolves and other supernaturals. It is a quick entertaining read. Highly recommend the series! |
| Renee |
| Pardonable Lies by Jacqueline Winspear |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Love reading this series of Maisie Dobbs! This one is better than the last, and compels me to search for the next! Great suggestion fellow readers! |
| Abby Montega |
| False Positive by J J Dare |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This book started out with a bang and never slowed down. Love, death, and every emotion in between were laced throughout this thriller. Tense, suspenseful, and graphically violent - like the author stated, this book is not a read for the faint of heart. The story begins with a man killing his beloved wife - or did he? Nothing is like it appears and the actions of one person start cataclysmic events that threaten everyone. I read it in one sitting, then re-read it again. I emailed the author and the next book in this trilogy is coming out this summer. |
| Debbie ([email protected]) |
| Lifeguard by James Patterson and Andrew Gross |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This mystery is set in Palm Beach, Florida, and Boston, and many places in between. I usually enjoy Patterson's writing, but the dialogue in this novel was very juvenile. I did enjoy learning more about the art world, in this novel; Patterson discusses the last works of Vincent Van Gogh--the two portraits of Dr Gachet; plus the washerwoman painting of Henri Gaume is mentioned. The people and the settings lacked dimension, this was not the usual Patterson novel. |
| Louise Pledge |
| Nightmare in Napa by Paul LaRosa |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Mr. LaRosa is a producer for the television program "48 Hours", so he did a lot of his own investigation on this case. Two out of three roommates were murdered on Halloween night while they had been sleeping. Despite some excellent clues left, like DNA, it took the Napa police almost a year to find the murderer. I figured out early on who it was, but I'm not sure the average reader would. At any rate, it was very good reading, following the steps in the investigation that were taken, leading detectives all over the country. If you like true crime stories pick this one up. |
| Debbie ([email protected]) |
| Beverly Hills Dead by Stuart Woods |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This continues the story of Rick Barren as he ascends in Hollywood. The story shows all the details necessary to produce a picture. This story also brings into play, the Blacklist, and what this action did to innocent people. I loved CHIEFS by Stuart Woods, but some of the books after CHIEFS have not been written as well. CHIEFS has more suspense, but still an enjoyable and informative book. |
| Julie H. |
| The Wildwater Walking Club by Claire Cook |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
When Noreen Kelly, with 18 years in at a fancy athletic shoe company, finds herself accepting a buyout, she doesn't know what to do. She has 18 months of salary and benefits, but doesn't know what to do with herself. Enter her before unnoticed neighborhood. She meets Tess over a clothesline and Rosie, when her chickens escape the lavender farm. The three join together and begin walking every morning, discussing the varying issues in their very different lives. |
| Jill |
| The Divorce Party by Laura Dave |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I read a great review of Laura Dave's novel on bookreporter.com, and it couldn't have been more accurate. Now that the book is out in paperback, I picked up a copy, and I'm so glad I did. I LOVED this novel, which focuses on a family coming apart in Montauk, New York. It is warm, wise and humorous. I couldn't put it down. |
| Kellie ([email protected]) |
| Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is a touching story about a teenage boy and his relationship with a neighbor, Leslie. There is so much to learn from this story. I wish I had read it when I was a kid. It actually takes place in the 70's, the decade of my childhood. These kids are two ordinary kids with the same anxieties and fears that any of us experienced when we were growing up. Jesse and Leslie help each other with these feelings. Unfortunately the story ends in tragedy, however, the author helps us learn from tragedy through the actions of the characters at the end. Lessons, anyone at any age can learn from. |
| Kim |
| Death and the Lit Chick by G. M. Malliet |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
Following on the heels of Malliet's successful first St. Just Mystery, DEATH OF A COZY WRITER, her new book DEATH AND THE LIT CHICK just doesn't measure up. In the vein of the classic cozy all the suspects are attending a crime writers' conference, Dead on Arrival, at Edinburgh's Dalmorton Castle when the award winner, chick lit mystery writer, Kimberlee Kalder is found dead. Unfortunately the superficial characterizations and forced satire don't hold the reader's interest and by the middle of the book you wish most of the characters would finish up with Kimberlee at the bottom of the bottle dungeon. The hint of a romance between Detective Chief Inspector St. Just and Portia De'Ath insures another installment in the series. Let us hope we care about the next set of characters. |
| Helen |
| Anybody Out There by Marian Keyes |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Wonderful read, about love gained and lost and the finding of ones' self after tragedy. |
| Kim |
| The Frightened Man by Kenneth Cameron |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This historical mystery set in 1900's London features General Denton, a Civil War veteran and former U.S. sheriff turned novelist, who has becomes obsessed by the murder of Stella Minter. Is Jack the Ripper back in business eviscerating prostitutes as R. Mulcahy, the frightened late night visitor to Denton, implies? Denton, disappointed by the police's lack of action, and maybe to avoid some of his own work and demons, pursues the murderer through the chaotic streets of London and the darker side of human nature, at great risk to himself and everyone around him. Not for the faint of heart this book is a violent, fast paced suspense, which drags the reader through the topics of sexual deviation, voyeurism, and mutilation. It also includes a bit of social commentary on the treatment of women at turn of the century. An intelligent and well-written page-turner from Kenneth Cameron. |
| Kathy Vallee |
| Devil May Ride by Wendy Roberts |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is the second book in the series A Ghost Dusters Mystery. This is the series were Saddie can see, hear and talk to the dead to help them over to the other side as she cleans up the places where they died. In this one she sees her dead niece who no one knew anything about. As she runs from a band of bikers who think she stole from them she makes a bond and gets closer to her family. A must read that is hard to put down. |
| Fran |
| MIstaken Identity by Don and Susie Van Ryn and Whitney Cerak |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
The story behind the media craze over the two girls who were misidentified following a car accident. One family is left to bury the daughter they thought they lost, while the other is nursing another family's child back to health from a coma. From the pictures, the girls have a remarkable resemblance and I could see where the confusion stemmed. Although this was very sad for the involved families, I was impressed by the grace with which they accepted this mishap. I'm not sure that too many families would hold onto to the faith and hope that was conveyed within this story. |
| Fran |
| Full of Grace by Dorothea Benton Frank |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I enjoyed listening to this story on an audio book. Although it is my first book by this author, I am hearing that it is very different from her typical work. This is largely about a young 'recovering' Catholic woman, who questions everything in her life when confronted with a personal miracle. It had an interesting premise; was well written and engaging. I enjoyed this even though it is not a book I would have typically picked up. |
| Patty |
| Beginner's Greek by James Collins |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I love this book. It is quaint and wonderful. |
| Julie H |
| Being Nikki: An Airhead Novel by Meg Cabot |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Nikki Howard, a supermodel who is the face of Stark Enterprises, is living up to her end of the bargain finagled at the end of Cabot's previous novel Airhead. She is attending Em's old high school, but is missing plenty of school to go on modeling gigs. Her amnesia story is still explaining the gaps in Nikki's memories, but when a good-looking guy shows up at the apartment, her mind is tested. Turns out Nikki actually came from somewhere before she was discovered as a hot commodity and has a brother named Steven, just on leave from the military. He, of course, can't believe that even with her memory loss, she can't remember their mother, the dog kennel or when she last heard from their mom. They begin to try to retrace her steps, with Em's old best bud, Christopher, who is planning a revenge of his own on Stark. |
| Bridget |
| Grave Goods by Ariana Franklin |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Third in a series about Adelia, Henry II's "doctor of death (coroner), but it could be read as a stand alone. Much better than the second. Adelia is sent by Henry II to Glastonbury (Avalon) to examine unearthed bones that may or may not be Arthur and Guinevere. Along the way a few other mysteries pop up for Adelia to solve with the help of her small entourage and a few willing locals. Suspense builds near the end, with lots of twists and turns. Adelia is fleshed out more and more in each book in the series, showing sides of herself that make her seem a "real person.' I certainly hope the author plans more books in this series. |
| Fran |
| Becoming Chloe by Catherine Ryan Hyde |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
This book was okay. Not great but I finished it. I enjoyed PAY IT FORWARD by the same author much more. |
| Helen |
| The Household Guide to Dying by Debra Adelaide |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Good read written in first person by Delia who is facing death and leaving her husband and children behind. Delia is a wonderful narrator, with a great love for her family, both past and present. Her to-do lists and wry comments to her readers of the advice column were clever and helped pull the story together. |
| Debbie ([email protected]) |
| A Darkness More Than Night by Michael Connelly |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is an older Harry Bosch/Terry McCaleb novel, but I thoroughly enjoyed the story with the discussion of Hieronymus Bosch, a painter in the 1500's. This tale interweaves Harry Bosch and Terry McCaleb in an effort to nail a murderer. McCaleb believes that Bosch is the brutal killer of low-life Gunn, but are the clues too convincing? The story is well told, and the discussion of the painter Bosch is well done. |
| Julie M |
| Trespass by Valerie Martin |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is my first Valerie Martin novel and it won't be my last! Martin definitely understands the human condition and brings it to the reader beautifully. There are no unnecessary words in the book. Each one is well chosen and contributes to the story. |
| Julie M |
| The Scent of Sake by Joyce Lebra |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
The book jacket sounded like this was going to be a wonderful story about a woman who rose to the top in a man dominated area. However, I found the story had little depth and was extremely predictable and contrived. No surprises in plot and little character development. Don't waste your time reading this one. I wish I hadn't. |
| Marya Zanders |
| The Crimes of Paris, a True Story of Murder, Theft by Dorothy and Thomas Hoobler |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I started reading this book because it dealt with the theft of the Mona Lisa from the Louvre in the early 20th century and because of the mentions of the avant-garde artists of that era---Picasso, etc. The beginning of the first chapter deals with the mechanics of the theft, but the rest of the chapter is loaded with history presented in fairly dry and uninteresting fashion. I wonder how much the Dreyfus affair is really interwoven into the story of the art theft. I suppose since the theft was never actually solved, although the painting was returned, there isn't all that much to write about it. It's not a bad read, I debated between 3 and 4 stars, but it might have been more interesting if it had been more concise and to the point. |
| Marya Zanders ([email protected]) |
| A Pearl in the Storm by Tori Murden McClure |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
The memoir of the first woman to row solo across the Atlantic, the successful second attempt takes up the smallest part of the text. Most of the narrative recounts the first failed attempt and gives a strong account of the sort of things one's mind wanders to when one is in impossible situations or in danger. There's a lot of remembrance of childhood, particularly as dealing with McClure's developmentally disadvantage brother, Lamar. These are the things that form each of us. And without ever discussing it, the author proves that we learn far more from failure than from success. I was afraid the book would dwell too much upon religion because the flap notes mentioned the author had a degree in divinity from Harvard, but it was far less about religion and much more about the human spirit. I was also surprised at how interesting I found the parts that dealt with Muhammad Ali as I usually have no interest in sports. One learns a lot about oneself in the reading, without ever rowing across any body of water. The concept of helplessness and how we approach it is threaded throughout the memoir and will leave the reader thinking about how he/she approaches the subject. There is a brief mention of the meeting with Thor Heyerdahl towards the end of the book, but his words are gentle yet powerful. |
| Marya Zanders ([email protected]) |
| Harry Truman's Excellent Adventure by Matthew Algeo |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
The road trip that Harry and Bess took is one part of the book and a grand one it is. No other former president, before or after, tried to take an ordinary road trip. There are some amazing moments, both when the former first couple managed their plan to travel incognito and some riotous ones, especially the story of the PA state trooper who stopped them on the PA Turnpike, of when they were very much recognized. There are also bits of history woven into the narrative and so blithely and painlessly done that one barely notices. Even the bits of history read like a good story, there's not a bit of the dry 'facts and figures' of a standard history text. The author tried to recreate the journey and that story too pops up throughout the text. It's only May but this may well be the best book I've read all year. |
| Joanne |
| Very Valentine by Adriana Trigiani |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Very good read. Starts off in NYC with a real Italian American family I can relate to, and ends up in Italy. Makes me want to go and see Italy. Funny as well as gripping. |
| Jan Atkins ([email protected]) |
| Look Again by Lisa Scottoline |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I would give it a 5 but that is reserved for something that I haven't read yet. But 4 is right up there as this book is. I couldn't put it down. I liked the short chapters; it kind of set a panic pace, which is what the character was feeling. This is a great psychological thriller. |
| [email protected] |
| Property by Valerie Martin |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Read Martin's TRESSPASS for my book group and immediately pulled this Martin off my "to read" shelf and read it in one night! Easy to see why it won the Orange Prize! |
| Glenn Pessano |
| 8th Confession by James Patterson and Maxine Paetro |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This one fell somewhat flat for me. It was just an OK read. I think JP is getting somewhat oversaturated with the amount of releases he puts out every year. Quantity isn't always better than quality. I still like the books that he writes w/o a co-author the best. |
| Lorna |
| The Whispering Room by Amanda Stevens |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Found this pick from my local library's suspense suggestion list. Takes place in New Orleans and centers round a homicide detective whose husband was killed a year earlier. She is working on a current case and discovers that this case is connected to her husband's death. Then to throw more into the mix, strange things are happening to her and her infant son. The more she finds out the more she is worried that something is going to happen. All events start having a connection to her. It took the whole book but it all came together with a little bit of a surprise. |
| Judy O. ([email protected]) |
| Columbine by Dave Cullen |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A fascinating, engrossing, and horrifying look into the Columbine High School massacres in 1999. The author has spent the last 10 years doing extensive research on this terrible event, and it is certainly full of information that I had never known about it. In this book, we "meet" Klebold and Harris and get to know them intimately. We also meet some of the injured victims, including the boy, Patrick Ireland, who was pictured climbing out one of the windows during the assault. This book is well-worth reading. |
| Michele |
| The Space Between Us by Thrity Umrigar |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Two women and their class and gender roles are at the heart of this story which is set in modern day Bombay. |
| Sharon Elliott-Fox |
| The First Paul by Marcus J. Borg and Dominic Crossan |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Digging through the past to understand and interpret the Letters of Paul, Borg and Crossan bring to life all that which has too often seemed out of touch with modern life. |
| Sherry Fraser |
| Honolulu by Alan Brennert |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A very readable historical novel of old Hawaii. Follows a Korean picture bride to her new home in Honolulu and paints a fascinating picture of life there at the beginning of the 20th century. |
| Sharon |
| Bones to Ashes by Kathy Reichs |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Another mystery solved by Temperance Brennan the forensic anthropologist who is employed both in the Carolinas and Quebec to solve the mysteries of bones. One note; the only things that Temperance Brennan has in the book and also in the TV show is the name and occupation. The story lines are totally different. This time Temperance is in Montreal trying to determine the story of old bones which came from Arcadia. Could these be the bones of her childhood friend who disappeared under mysterious conditions so many years ago? |
| Bridget |
| Just Breathe by Susan Wiggs |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Novel about a woman whose marriage falls apart. She goes back to her home town with her tail between her legs and takes charge of her life. She stops looking at people the way she did in high school, makes friends, falls in love and lives happily ever after. Should be very unrealistic and too, too sweet, but it's not. |
| LINDA B |
| The Texas Ranger's Twins by Tina Leonard |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Suzy Winterstone got stuck with an unplanned pregnancy and her boyfriend ran the other way, it was a blessing that she cared for Josiah Morgan when she worked at the hospital as he gave her a place to live while she cared for her daughters, but he never mentioned that his very tall and huge son would be living there too! Ex-Ranger, Dane Morgan knew what his meddling father was up to the minute that he laid eyes on Suzy, but marriage was not in his plans! All he had to do was to live at the ranch for a year to collect his million dollars and he could live in style in Mexico. |
| Carmella |
| Stop Growing Older...Grow Younger by J Collin Towers |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is the very first time I've ever attempted to write a review, so please bear with me. I'm just so excited about this book, that it has forced me to overcome my shyness and try to express how truly amazing it is. I can't emphasize just how beneficial this book is to everyone, not JUST "baby-boomers". Everyone who reads this book will not only add years to their life, but quality years worth living way beyond their expectations. This book is not only about looking great, but getting your body back to the way nature intended you to be both inside and out. Believe me, STOP GROWING OLDER...GROW YOUNGER, is NOT your average copycat, "health" book. In fact, it's like nothing you've ever seen before. J Collin Towers has done extensive research from every angle and reveals his source's websites as well as some phone numbers to contact them. He includes his own regiment for successfully "turning back the clock" to literally looking and feeling like a 40 year old man, when he turned 60 on his last birthday. Give the gift of many happy and healthy years for not only yourself, but for those you love. Buy this book, it will be the greatest investment you'll ever need for longevity. |
| Judy |
| Tea Time for the Traditionally Built by Alexander McCall Smith |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
The further adventures of the No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency. I have to admit, I probably wouldn't have read this book (and it's the first in the series I have) if I hadn't watched the HBO series first. What a charming, witty, old-fashioned and simple way of life in Botswana. The cases and personal involvements are not gory nor a thrill-a-minute, but every day predicaments. Mma Ramotswe (owner) and Mma Makutsi (assistant detective) are wonderful women with two very different personalities and ways of thinking. You truly feel you know these women, understand a bit of life in Botswana, and leave with a strange longing once the book is done. |
| Louise Pledge |
| Firefly Beach by Luanne Rice |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Basically, the story of two families' lives told through years of letters. Their lives were intertwined, whether they liked it, or not. |
| Teresa ([email protected]) |
| The Ten-Year Nap by Meg Wolitzer |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
It drags. Characters are not sympathetic and not real formed. |
| Teresa Steinert ([email protected]) |
| Run by Ann Patchett |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Really enjoyed the idea of what and who a family is. Characters were rich and believable. |
| Louise Pledge |
| Denial by Keith Ablow |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
Actually, I couldn't finish the book. The language was disgusting, and the main character, even more so. The plot was pretty good, so I read as long as I could stand it, but it was really too much. |
| Bonnie Capuano ([email protected]) |
| Twilight by Stephenie Meyer |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I read all four books. I think the books are way better than the first movie. Hopefully the second movie (NEW MOON) will do the book justice. Ms. Meyer's writing goes so deep in book two when Edward leaves Bella. You could truly feel her pain. Book four leaves a lot to be desired; a little silly but all in all I loved the books. |
| Janice H. ([email protected]) |
| Blues in the Night by Rochelle Krich |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Molly is a writer of "true crime" books. She is investigating the story of a woman who may have been suffering from post partum depression or psychosis, or who may have plotted the murder of her infant son, planning to make it appear to be mental illness. I enjoyed this mystery, and also the interjections about Molly's life as an Orthodox Jewish woman. |
| Linda |
| Prayers for Sale by Sandra Dallas |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A classic piece of literature that shows how friendships are formed and last. The characters are very real and have you thinking of them even when you are away from the book. Would make a great book club discussion book. |
| Louise Pledge |
| Blue Skies by Catherine Anderson |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A tender love story which really illustrates the power of love and devotion, not just for the good times, but the bad, as well. |
| Mary |
| The Well and the Mine: A Novel by Gin Phillips |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Set in Carbon Hill, Alabama during the Great Depression, this is a story of a coal miner's family; their struggle to "get by" with the fear of death or serious injury lurking at the edge of the picture. The book has a shocking opener. Tess, the youngest daughter sees an unknown woman toss a baby down the well, in the first few pages of the narrative. What follows though is an amazing, almost charming picture of family love and survival in a brutal economy. We can all relate. |
| Louise Pledge |
| If Looks Could Kill by M. William Phelps |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I enjoyed this one a lot more than the previous Phelps book I read, but then a story can only be as good as the available material (since these are true crimes). A murder takes place in Akron, OH, where the victim had hundreds of enemies. It wasn't until almost the 400th page that the reader got to learn who the killer really was. |
| Ed Hahn ([email protected]) |
| The Tipping Point by Malcolm Gladwell |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This is an interesting but ultimately unsatisfying explanation of why some things reach epidemic proportions and some things don't. I wanted more details and fewer anecdotes. I wanted more suggestions of how to bring something to a "Tipping Point" and less long explanations of how it worked in a few cases. The book started well and the idea of building an analogy between fads and epidemics was a good one and well illustrated by the resurgence of Hush Puppy shoes. The Law of the Few was fascinating and helped me think about how some people influence others because of their basic personality. Collectors, Mavens and Salespeople are all types of people who can start and maintain an "epidemic" and I was able to identify many of the characteristics in myself and others. My major problem with Gladwell is that he goes on and on and on long after I've figured out what he's trying to prove. In the chapter on stickiness, he spends dozens on pages on two examples, Sesame Street and Blue Dog. Since these are TV programs aimed at pre-schoolers, the application to other areas is arguable. Besides, two examples do not a proof make. The Power of Context examples were even more fuzzy and difficult to bridge to other situations. I will say the example of how New York City was able to significantly reduce crime was fascinating and made a lot of sense. The final two case studies which I think were there to tie everything together were way too drawn out and left me with the feeling that they had been added to make the book over 200 pages long. I do like Gladwell's writing style and he has had two additional best-sellers since "The Tipping Point" but I'm afraid this particular effort is a little bit too much "pop psychology" and not enough meaningful content. I'll try "Blink" next and see if his presentation improves. |
| Ricki |
| Double Identity by Margaret Peterson Haddix |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This would have been so much more suspenseful if the back page had not given too much away. |
| Bridget |
| The Serpent's Tale by Ariana Franklin |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
The second in a series about a medieval female physician from Sicily in Henry II's England at his command. She is his "doctor of death" or official coroner. In this book she sets out to investigate Rosamund Clifford's death by poisoning and winds up involved in a rebellion being put together by Eleanor of Aquitaine. Eleanor is not one of my favorite historical characters so maybe that's why I didn't like this book as much as I did the first in the series. I also found several subplots to be a little confusing and detracting from the main plot: who killed Rosamund. The question is answered, but not in a particularly satisfying way. The mastermind of this crime does receive just punishment! |
| Ann Brim |
| The Appeal by John Grisham |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I always enjoy John Grisham and this is good but is slow in parts. It is set in rural Mississippi where a jury returns a verdict of $40 million against a chemical company. It is interesting and makes one wonder more about the political system and the things that go on behind the scenes. |
| Louise Pledge |
| Retribution by Jilliane Hoffman |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Ms Hoffman's first novel, if it were a movie, would be X rated for language and violence. If you can get through that, you'll really enjoy it. Lots of twists and turns. I have gone on to order both of her following books. |
| Barbara |
| One Child by Torey L. Hayden |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Non-fiction. Six year old Sheila had been literally tossed away, awaiting an opening in the children's unit of the state hospital. Torey, a teacher who worked with mentally challenged children, fought for Sheila and didn't give up on her. |
| Bridget |
| Twenty Wishes by Debbie Macomber |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
A nice book. The characters all make lists of twenty wishes (red cowboy boots, learning to speak French, finding someone to love) and as they try to achieve them; good things happen. Some sad stuff in it, but, overall, at the end of this book, the reader feels good. |
| Marianna |
| American Born Chinese by Gene Luen Yang |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
AMERICAN BORN CHINESE is a funny comic about a young Chinese boy, the Monkey King, and a white boy with a VERY embarrassing and stereotypical Chinese cousin. The art and story are fun. I was not too thrilled with the book until the end. I loved how the stories connected. I had the urge to reread it immediately. |
| Jay F. |
| Animal, Vegetable, Miracle: A Year of Food Life by Barbara Kingsolver and Camille Kingsolver |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
The story of the author and her family vowing to eat locally grown food for a year. This was a local library group read. I wasn't sure about the book to begin with, but the author's descriptions of all things, asparagus, reminded me of my great uncle's asparagus patch at home, and it pulled me in. The author goes in depth into different locally grown foods. Interesting what they went through. The audiobook was narrated by the author, along with (I believe) her husband and daughter for the sections they wrote. Authors aren't always good readers, but this one did a great job in pointing out the interesting sections and the pathos, such as there was. A little much on the turkeys at the end, but the author explains in an interview in the audiobook afterward that she had to look for story arcs, etc. to make a good story, and the turkeys were what she picked. It does make you want to try some new vegetables. |
| Mary |
| Saint Maybe by Anne Tyler |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A young boy tells his older brother that his wife is unfaithful, and the brother kills himself, maybe, in a car accident. The young wife is soon out of the picture as well, and the younger brother drops out of college to help his parents raise the toddler who is possibly his or his brother's, and his sister-in-laws two other children. Haunted by guilt he believes that raising the children will redeem him, a concept offered by a store front Church that he joins. Is he a saint? Maybe. A great read, like all Anne Tyler's books! |
| Lynn Marler |
| Road Dogs by Elmore Leonard |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Revisits characters from some of his other novels, including Jack Foley, the charming bank robber from OUT OF SIGHT (also made into a movie starring George Clooney). Mildly entertaining so far, but I'm starting to get tired of ex-con and scammer stories; haven't we heard enough in the news lately about all the cons and scams the CEOs, Wall Street, the banks, the mortgage lenders, and the Congress have been running on the American people?! |
| Carol |
| Fatally Flaky by Diann Mott Davidson |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Funny, suspenseful. A good read. |
| Jacqueline in Atlanta |
| Ronald Reagan: How an Ordinary man Became an Extra by Dinesh d'Souza |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Not your ordinary biography. D'Souza was a staffer for Reagan when Reagan was president. D'Souza was in his early twenties then, so he was unusually young to be on staff at the White House. He tells an incredible story of firsthand accounts of Reagan's interactions with staff, family members, foreign leaders and heads of state, members of Congress and more. He admits to Reagan's weaknesses even as D'Souza admits that he is a Reagan fan and admirer and not an unbiased bystander. The book is a fascinating look back at a man who not only stood at the crossroads of history, but who directed the traffic of the world in the right direction. A nonfiction book that reads like a story. |
| ck |
| Half of a Yellow Sun by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Adichie is too young to remember the Biafra/Nigeria war but had relatives to interview. Ugwu is a young house boy who grows into manhood as the novel progresses. The reader sees the changes in the major characters from his viewpoint. There are twin sisters who were raised by wealthy parents, a professor who rose from a poor village to teach at a university and a British journalist who loves his adopted country but is always on the fringes. Our book group had a lively discussion! |
| Barbara |
| The Relationship Principles of Jesus by Tom Holladay |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This daily devotion follows the study, 40 Days of Love, and is an excellent guide to improving relationships. It only takes 40 days. |
| Ed Hahn ([email protected]) |
| Void Moon by Michael Connelly |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
I am a big Michael Connelly fan and wondered how I had missed this book. Well, perhaps it's because it isn't up to his usual standards. Written in 2000, it describes the efforts of a Las Vegas thief and parolee, Cassie Black, to raise enough money to kidnap her natural daughter and take off for Tahiti. It starts slow and then slows down. It finally picks up the pace about 150 pages in and in the last 40 pages moves very quickly to tie up all the loose ends. The ending is not very satisfying but somewhat logical. I believe he hasn't written any more stories about Cassie Black and maybe it's just as well. The major villain, Jack Karch, is a real piece of sociopathic work and his boss Vincent Grimaldi is such a stereotype that it is difficult to find him interesting. Usually, in Connelly's much celebrated Harry Bosch series, even the villains have some redeeming qualities but not in this story. Not a lot of moral ambiguity to be found here except how Cassie is going to live with the knowledge of the large number of people she managed to get killed in her pursuit of her daughter. Overall, this particular effort was a disappointment. |
| Ed Hahn ([email protected]) |
| Sharpe's Fury by Bernard Cornwell |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
It seems that this volume in the Richard Sharpe series, published in 2006, was written almost as an afterthought. In the Historical Notes, Cornwell admits that, after visiting the Cadiz area, he could not resist writing about one more battle: in this case Barossa. The Battle of Barossa happened in 1811, at the low ebb of British fortunes in the Peninsular War. Cornwell's description of it, accompanied by an excellent map, is outstanding. As good as any battle scenes Cornwell has tackled. The story itself is a bit formulaic, although Cornwell's formulas work fairly well. We have the arrogant, spiteful British Officer, General Moon, the evil French Officer, Colonel Vandal, The cowardly and inept Spanish Officer, General Lapena, The beautiful but flawed woman, Caterina Veronica Blasquez, the foppish, untrustworthy British nobleman, Hubert Pumphery, and last, but not least, the unremittingly evil, civilian turncoat, Father Montseny. You can almost guess the plot from the list of characters. There are a few twists to keep things interesting but it was not hard to figure out what was going to happen before it did. Toss in some circumstances to keep Sharpe and his side-kick, Sergeant Harper, in Cadiz when they should be in Lisbon and you have a very readable story. Not as well-drawn as some of the others but fun nevertheless. |
| Carol |
| Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet by Jamie Ford |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
The novel was interesting but a slow mover. |
| jim ([email protected]) |
| Last call by JD Seamus |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I picked this book up after reading some of the reviews and seeing the long list of awards the book has won and was absolutely delighted. The characters are fun and the dialogue is better than my favorite writer, Elmore Leonard. I thought it was a guy book and was absolutely surprised when my wife liked it also. She's telling her girl friends that it's a chic book. This dude is a WRITER. |
| Jean M |
| The Legal Limit by Martin Clark |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Wonderful book. Very human characters and the zigs and zags of their lives. |
| Darlene Arden, CABC |
| The Wicked Wit of The West by Irving Brecher and Hank Rosenfeld |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
The last of the MGM Round Table writers, the man who wrote "Meet Me in St. Louis," two Marx Bros. movies on his own and began by writing for Milton Berle in his vaudeville days, has left a rich legacy, captured by Hank Rosenfeld during years of interviews. This is a treasure rich in history for anyone who is interested in comedy writing and show business history. Sadly, Brecher died just before the book was published. |
| Mary In HB |
| The Ex-Mrs. Hedgefund by Jill Kargman |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I LOVE snarky dialogue and this has it! It is full of lines you just wish you had said yourself and with that fantasy in mind, everything else that you could dream up. This is a great beach read and chick lit for the summer months. I like the fact that the main character, Holly, is not so wrapped up in the rich and famous lifestyle and you can honestly root for her. That and the EX gets his in the end. |
| Michelle Wilczewski |
| Nightwatch by Sergei Lukyanenko |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
The book is part vampire story, part fantasy, part action-thriller and it keeps you glued to the pages. It's a Russian novel translated into English which gives it an extra something as it takes place in modern day Moscow. It's awesome. |
| Terri |
| Even by Andrew Grant |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I'm so glad I read about this book on Bookreporter.com! Andrew Grant has written a marvelous, action-packed thriller! He's going to give his brother, Lee Child, some competition! |
| Pat Blum |
| The River of Doubt by Candice Millard |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Beautifully written book about Theodore Roosevelt's trip down the Amazon river. It is a nonfiction narrative thriller that I can't put down! |
| Friendly Advice |
| Stop Growing Older...Grow Younger by J Collin Towers |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is the book that can change your life. It contains all the latest nutrition, supplement, exercise, product and therapy information that you need to look younger, feel younger, be younger. You no longer have to accept declining abilities, lower energy and pain as part of the natural aging process. J Collin Towers explains in easy to understand terms exactly what you need to do and eat and use to make every year of your life years of energy, vitality, and quality. Nutrition is the key to preventing illness and recovering from illness, no matter the prognosis from your doctor. Read this book, follow Towers recommendations and change your life. |
| Cheryl Cincinnati,Oh |
| Look Again by Lisa Scottline |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Fast paced suspense. The reader experiences Ellen's frustration, anxiety, and fears as she searches for the truth concerning her adopted son's true paternity. The short chapters ended leaving the reader asking questions and making predictions. The reader will root for Ellen and Will, hoping that Ellen's suspicions are not true. |
| Lindanataya ([email protected]) |
| The Beet Queen by Louise Erdrich |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Louise Erdrich will introduce you to a magical world resonant with the images of the American Indian Culture. Her characters in this novel are unique and captivating. Surprises come with every page. Images you would never have imagined. Roam through these pages. You will have mystical adventure. |
| Julie |
| Nothing to Lose by Lee Child |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Gripping story of Jack Reacher, in Despair, Colorado, trying to solve the mysterious goings on at the recycling plant. Lots of action, romance and drama. |
| Sharron |
| The Help by Kathryn Stockett |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
In the beginning, the southern language kept me focused. As I became accustomed to the style, the story became the focus. While I grew up during the 60's, I didn't give much thought to the racial struggle experienced by maids and caretakers of the "upper" class. This was a reminder of just how far we have come. |
| Kellie ([email protected]) |
| The Bible Salesman by Clyde Edgerton |
| Rating: 1 Stars |
|
How this book was published is beyond me. This was one of the worst books I have ever read. I didn't get it. Whatever it's purpose, I didn't get it. I do know this was about a young Bible Salesman named Henry. And he was hired by a criminal to steal cars. But Henry didn't know he was participating in a crime, Clearwater, his boss, told him they were working for the FBI. The book went back in time to give some background on Henry's childhood. I am not sure what the relevance was. The book was choppy, the characters were lame. Thankfully this book was short so I could finish quick and move on. |
| Mary in HB |
| Swoon by Nina Malkin |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I enjoyed this very original young adult paranormal. The action was fast paced and the characters were well developed. The author truly has a way with words and I was at first dismayed by the length of this book, it went very quickly and I stayed up way too long to finish it. Candice (aka "Dice") is very likable and Sinclair really reminded me of someone straight out of a Jane Austin novel. The only downfall with this book is that I can't see a sequel in the works. |
| Judy |
| Revelation by C. J. Sansom |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Another excellent novel from Sansom set in the time of Henry VIII just before he marries Catherine Parr. A serial killer using the book of Revelation for his blueprint also causes political havoc. |
| F Tessa Bartels |
| Dairy Queen by Catherine Murdock |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
DJ is a farmer (by necessity not choice), a basketball player, a failure at Sophomore English, and a trainer of the star quarterback of the arch-rival high school, when she decides to try out for the football team. This is an interesting coming of age book. Not great, but okay for YA. 2.5 stars |
| Gil |
| Olive Kitteridge by Elizabeth Strout |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Olive Kitteridge seemed to be a real life person (warts and all). Somebody I could relate to. She was very straight forward in her dealings with people and did not pull any punches. Yet she was vulnerable (suffering from a poor relationship with her son). She had a profound influence on many people in her small town and a lasting effect on former students. I especially liked it when she realized she could not have everything her way, and settled for what she could have. I also enjoyed the characters, especially Rebecca, who could not stop talking. Discussing her barium enema while on a job interview was particularly funny. I also agreed with her assessment of George Bush. |
| F Tessa Bartels |
| The Queen of the Oddballs by Hillary Carlip |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Memoir of a life NOT according to plan. From age 8 to mid 40s Hillary tries on multiple personae in an effort to feel that "it's enough." Finally discovering she, herself, is more than enough. Delightful. |
| CC |
| Home Safe by Elizabeth Berg |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Wonderful story with richly drawn characters in Berg's usual easy-to-read style. She makes you care about these people. |
| Sharron |
| Home Safe by Elizabeth Berg |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
E. Berg is a wonderful storyteller who captures her characters. While a serious novel, it is laced with humor, and a middle aged woman I could relate to. Easy to read, you'll want to start it over when finished. |
| Pat Hill ([email protected]) |
| Cross Country by James Patterson |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I enjoyed reading this book. It was easy to read and keep up with the story of Alex Cross in Africa. |
| Carol |
| Tea Time For the Traditionally Built by Alexander McCall Smith |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
McCall Smith continues to delight with this new book in his No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency series. Same characters going about life and detection work with great humanity. The language is so much fun to read. The author has a great turn-of-phrase and enchants his readers. |
| MPV |
| Rooftops of Tehran by Mahbod Seraji |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A must read for anyone who enjoyed THE KITE RUNNER. The love story is memorable, but I feel like I learned more about the customs and beliefs of the people (at least during that time). It takes place back in the 70's before the revolution. |
| ILENE |
| Year of Wonders by Geraldine Brooks |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
The devastation of a plague-ridden village and a housemaid named Anna Firth emerges as an unlikely heroine and healer. |
| Trudi |
| Song Yet Sung by James McBride |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I really liked this book I couldn't put it down in anticipation of what would happen next. The book takes place in Maryland before the Civil War when group of slaves break free. What follows are violence, love, near death, and death of some of the characters. McBride sure can write. I am going to read more of his work. |
| Eileen Quinn Knight ([email protected]) |
| Brooklyn by Colm Toibin |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
As Harper magazine states: "For everyone in the novel, physical distance counts for little when compared to the gulfs they themselves create with the things they choose - or more often choose not- to say." The author is able to capture the understatement of all of these characters. It is the best book I've read this year and on a Kindle! |
| Angela Satalino |
| The 19th Wife by David Ebershoff |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Interested from the outset. I love to read about the Mormons or Firsts. |
| Harriet Stay ([email protected]) |
| The Brass Verdict by Michael Connelly |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
It's been a year since Mickey Haller has practiced law. He's the only anti-hero whom I've enjoyed reading. Okay, Dortmunder, what's not to like. THE LINCOLN LAWYER (2005) introduced Haller and he grew from the imagination of my favorite writer, Michael Connelly. Perhaps anti-hero is too strong of a designation. Everyone is entitled to representation, even the scumbags. Haller just seems to have more than his share of those clients and you meet one in the opening chapter set in 1992. Now, fast forward to the present. Attorney Jerry Vincent, to whom you were introduced in the opening court case, is now dead. Murdered. Mickey Haller inherits Jerry Vincent's law practice with all his case files, the most notable and high profile of the lot being the double murder charge against Walter Elliot, owner of Archway Pictures. Elliot's wife and lover were shot. The husband is always the obvious choice for the police. But this is not as simple as it sounds. Side note: if you've not read any of Connelly's (shame on you) I should mention the settings, except one that I recall, are primarily in Los Angeles County. Double murder becomes triple for Mickey Haller because the question of why was Jerry Vincent murdered and does it tie-in to one of Vincent's cases, now belonging to Haller. But, it isn't Haller doing all the snooping. He has a hired investigator plus his girl Friday, his ex-wife. Their relationship works better that way. Connelly's series character Detective Harry Bosch becomes a secondary character working on the Vincent murder. If I had not read all of the Bosch books I would never have noticed, but for me the Harry Bosch in this book did not feel like Harry. As a character necessary to the story he worked fine. Even my librarian friend noticed the same thing, but we both highly recommend this as another outstanding book. |
| Kcat |
| Brimstone by Robert B. Parker |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I enjoyed this one. His characters are interesting. This is like a Western "Spenser". |
| P. C. |
| Cat Sitter On a Hot Tin Roof by Blaize Clement |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
The fourth book in the series takes pet sitter sleuth, Dixie Hemingway, on more adventures with the local police. The stories are set in Siesta Key, near Sarasota Florida. Those who like to read about animal behavior will enjoy these books. |
| P.C. |
| Home Safe by Elizabeth Berg |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Elizabeth Berg is a favorite! This book proved to be one of her best efforts. I read it in two days. |
| Darby Lohrding |
| Just Take My Heart by Mary Higgins Clark |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Just started Clark's newest release and I was taken in on the first page. Longer book than her normal books yet I feel it will be a faster read! After this book I can't wait to read John Sandford's new PREY novel! So many good books out now! |
| Rochelle |
| Handle with Care by Jodi Picoult |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is a family tear jerker! I love Jodi's writing style. You get to experience the story through all the different character views. This book is about a family dealing with the youngest daughter having osteogenesis imperfecta and a wrongful birth lawsuit filed by the mother. She is suing her OBGYN which happens to be her best friend. The book is sad but very good! |
| Julie H. |
| Killer Cruise by Laura Levine |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Jaine Austen returns as a last minute sub on a luxury cruise liner. She's to teach a writing class in exchange for her food and bunk. Naturally, a mysterious death occurs and it's up to Jaine to sift through the clues to find a murderer. |
| Julie H. |
| Percy Jackson and the Last Olympian by Rick Riordan |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Percy Jackson and the other demigods are in the battle of their life, helping protect Mount Olympus and the rest of Manhattan from the Titan Kronos. Kronos has brought to life another Greek monster/demon named Typhon, whose cross country rampage diverts the Gods' attention from Mount Olympus, leaving it easy prey. Riordan had a lot of ground to cover in his final say in what could be Percy's last quest and he did it well. From reaching into the past to look at explaining Annabeth's unwavering belief in Luke to Grover, Thalia and even Nico's stories, I was pretty happy with their final tale. |
| Sara M |
| The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie by Alan Bradley |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
The single element which adds such charm to Alan Bradley's mystery novel, THE SWEETNESS AT THE BOTTOM OF THE PIE, is the eleven year old narrator, Flavia de Luce. Armed with determination and a natural ability to sleuth, she attempts to solve the book's central mystery--a body she happened onto in her family's garden. With a spirited original voice, "I shivered with joy whenever I thought of the autumn day that Chemistry had fallen into my life," she trails clues involving stamp collecting, magical illusions, and her passion, poison. Unlike some mystery novels it gives us substantial hints throughout the story, and so provides a nicely solvable mystery by the story's conclusion. THE SWEETNESS AT THE BOTTOM OF THE PIE is a mystery with some literary heft but still manages not to take itself too seriously. Flavia's account of the events is over the top funny, and the book is a good choice for younger readers too. I am definitely picking up the next book in the series, and crossing my fingers in hope that the novelty of a precocious crime solver doesn't wear off. In my estimation, Flavia de Luce may emerge as our generation's Nancy Drew. |
| Kay |
| Borderline by Nevada Barr |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Every single one of Barr's books is terrific and BORDERLINE is no exception. In this one, Anna and Paul are together at Big Bend National Park in Texas. If you like nature, suspense, and a really good character in Anna Pigeon, Nevada Barr novels won't disappoint! |
| Debbie ([email protected]) |
| The Full Cupboard of Life by Alexander McCall Smith |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
In this #5 of the series, Precious begins to wonder if JLB will ever set the wedding date. Grace's brother dies and she moves to a new place. A rich lady asks Precious to investigate 3 men she has picked and suggest the best men to be a husband. JLB chastises another mechanic who does shoddy work. The theme of this installation is that the past held better people, and old customs have been replaced by rudeness. As usual, I enjoy the simple format/life as seen through Precious's eyes. |
| Maureen |
| The Girls by Lori Lansens |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Such a unique, interesting story of conjoined twins and how they live their life. Highly recommended, especially for book clubs. |
| Gale Kearley ([email protected]) |
| White Shark by Peter Benchley |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
It's an older book but it's got a good plot that grabs my attention. |
| Lulu |
| Reunion by Therese Fowler |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
All things that make for good reading: unanswered questions pushing one forward to read more and more; redemption or not? ; joyful people; beginnings from nothing to something. I couldn't put it down and recommended it to several others who felt the same as I. Wonderful and lovely. |
| Debbie ([email protected]) |
| Summer on Blossom Street by Debbie Macomber |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
| I love this series. As always, Debbie delivers a great story! I hope she continues on. I have grown to love the characters in this series! |
