September 11, 2009 - September 24, 2009
Last contest period's winners each received a copy of EVIL AT HEART by Chelsea Cain, THE GUINEA PIG DIARIES: My Life as an Experiment by A. J. Jacobs and HEAVEN'S KEEP by William Kent Krueger.
| Judy |
| Perfection: A Memoir of Betrayal and Renewal by Julie Metz |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This is the story of how Julie lives through the death of her loving husband (and her idyllic life) only to find that her life with him had been based on lies and betrayal. The emotions are palpable and I'm glad she overcame it all, but reading about it just depressed me. |
| Crystal |
| Killer Dolphin by Ngaio Marsh |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Superintendent Allyen, Inspector Fox and company from Scotland Yard, CID solve another puzzling mystery. It involves a refurbished theater, a play about Shakespeare and an artifact tied to the Bard. The actors performing the play are involved in the mystery and are true characters. |
| Judy |
| Darling Jim by Christian Moerk |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Danish author Moerk weaves a tale of murder mystery, mythology, and voyeurism. Two sisters and their aunt are found dead in their Dublin home. It appears the sisters were kept prisoners and there might have been another person who may have escaped. A bored postal clerk, Niall, finds a package in the dead letter box...no postage, but the return address of the Dublin home. In it is one of the sisters' diary. This is a story within a story as Niall discovers what happened when the roving Irish storyteller, Jim, comes to the small town and things are never the same. Niall is drawn to discover what happened to Jim and what happened to that missing captive. The novel is intriguing and unique. |
| Maureen H |
| The Neighbor by Lisa Gardner |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I'm almost finished with this book, but life keeps interrupting. I do not want to put it down and I have not figured out who did it! It is driving me to the edge. I will have to close myself in my closet to finish. I have read every one of her books, which is rare for me because I usually get bored by the same author and have to switch it up with something new. Lisa Gardner knows how to switch it up and she keeps getting better with every book. Just love this author!!! |
| Chris |
| Too Many Cooks by Emily Franklin |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Franklin's idea to write a book about introducing her kids to "real" food, after they insisted on ordering chicken nuggets at a famous seafood restaurant, is a good one. She takes us on their gastronomical adventures over the course of one year, describing both successes and failures, her children's reactions to new foods (some quite comical), and recipes for some of their favorites. In the process, she also takes us on their family vacations both near and far, and describes such life events as the death of her stepmother and what, to her, seems like the endless nursing of her infant son. Her tone is sometimes snobby, but the book is a quick and, for the most part, an enjoyable read, especially for those of us who like to cook and eat "real" food. |
| Judy O. ([email protected]) |
| A Rather Lovely Inheritance by C.A. Belmond |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Penny Nichols is a historical researcher working on a film in France when she receives word that her Great Aunt Penelope has died in London and left her an inheritance. When she arrives she becomes reacquainted with her cousin Jeremy, who is the executor of the estate. Family secrets and villains are then revealed for a fun, suspenseful book. I believe this is the first book in a series. |
| Julie H. |
| Coffeehouse Angel by Suzanne Selfors |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
A cute story of a girl named Katrina who goes to highschool and helps in her grandmothers old style Scandanavian Coffee Shop. One morning, she leaves out a bag of day old pastries and coffee for a man she thinks is homeless. Turns out Malcolm is not truly a vagrant, but a very special messenger trying unsuccessfully to deliver his message in Nordby. |
| Heather Pearson |
| Heaven is Small by Emily Schultz |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
It's not a romance, rather Gordon Small is dead and is editing romance novels. A rather fun premise and promising start, I'm only 40 pages in. |
| Jud Hanson |
| The Jesus Papers by Michael Baigent |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
If you have a fragile religious faith or were "ruined" by THE DAVINCI CODE, stop reading now. THE JESUS PAPERS by Michael Baigent (Holy Blood, Holy Grail co-author) is a no-holds barred look at the man millions of Christians call Jesus. Is he the person most of us have learned about in Sunday School and Church all our lives or were we just hearing propaganda for all those years? This is the primary question that Baigent attempts to answer in this book. He takes an in-depth look at the writings of historians such as Josephus and of the Gospels and points out numerous inconsistencies between what we know of customs and politics of Jesus' time and what the Bible say-there are more differences then you might think. Baigent also discusses the history of the Catholic Church and how over time, women were relegated to second-class citizens in the Church. Perhaps the most controversial question in the book is if Jesus actually survived being crucified. While there is no conclusive evidence he did, there are clues that point in that direction, such as the painting of the 14th Station at Rennes le Chateau in Southern France that shows Jesus' body being moved after the beginning of Passover (indicated by the nighttime landscape and full moon in the background on page 50). Baigent uncovers that there were substances commonly available at the time which served as sedatives and could be used to mimic death in an individual. The bottom line is that this book has more questions than answers and should make even the most faithful people take note. |
| Julie H. |
| Prism by Faye Kellerman and Aliza Kellerman |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
Kaida and the van she is carpooling in crash on the way to a school fieldtrip. The only other occupants are Zeke and Joy, kids she doesn't really know too well. Together, they try to seek shelter from the elements and find themselves in an alternate reality. This was touted on the dust jacket as a paranormal thriller, I thought it was a little more dystopian than that, and a little too short on a lot of areas to be any more than two stars. |
| Julie H. |
| Evil for Evil by James R. Benn |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Benn once again spins a tale from a theater of WWII that is off the beaten track. It seems only fitting that "Uncle" Ike would send Billy Boyle off to Ireland to investigate the theft of armaments and ammo from a base there. Billy's cop background helps him dutifully follow up the clues and leads to solve this mystery. Billy's time in Ireland gives him a lot to think about after growing up in a family that comes down on one side of the Irish debate, he reflects at one point that he's not sure he likes knowing both sides of this subject. Although I missed Kaz and a couple other familiar faces, I really enjoyed this Boyle story. |
| Jud Hanson |
| Shadow of Power by Steve Martini |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Fewer words in the English language are more volatile than "slavery." So when scholar and wanna-be celebrity Terry Scarborough announces to the world that he has a secret letter from Thomas Jefferson that could turn US History on its head, passions run high across the country. When the son of a friend is charged with Scarborough's brutal murder, attorney Paul Madriani takes the case because he believes there may be more to it than meets the eye. Is the so-called "Jefferson Letter" authentic and if so, what does it say? Madriani must dig deep to find out the truth and prevent the division of the nation and an innocent man from execution. Paul Madriani is one of my favorite characters and SHADOW OF POWER is another engaging novel featuring this clever attorney. I've always been a big fan of legal thrillers and Martini does a superb job of chronicling the trial which is the focus of the book. While allowing for literary license, the trial portion of the book is convincing with its realistic portrayal of a trial connected to a hot button issue like slavery. Martini definitely deserves to be mentioned in the company of Turow, Tanenbaum and Grisham. |
| Suzanne L. |
| Burnt Shadows by Kamila Shamsie |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
In beautifully written prose, Kamila Shamsie first takes us to the Japanese town where a young girl in love will have her life change unimaginably as the bomb is dropped and her whole village and most of the people in it are either killed or horribly injured... |
| Fran |
| The Giant's House: A Romance by Elizabeth McCracken |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
While I loved the unique writing style of this author, I found the story to be somewhat strange. A librarian falls in love with a giant.... who is half her age. It creeped me out while he was a child and even into his adult years. If it wasn't for the writing, I would have put it down a while ago. Despite the weird nature of this story, I enjoyed the book and liked the characters. Even the end was weird. |
| Nicole |
| No One You Know by Michelle Richmond |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
What I loved most about this book was her descriptions. They were so vivid and I am not too keen on heavy descriptions in the book, but this one is such an exception. I loved her description of the coffee beans, the country she is in, and the search to find her sister's killer. It is such an involving story, I hated to see it end. |
| Debbie ([email protected]) |
| Below Zero by C J Box |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
I first read a CJ Box novel, BLOOD TRAIL, many years ago. Box's novel are set in the northwest, Wyoming and South Dakota, and deal with survival and nature. BELOW ZERO is the latest in the Joe Pickett series about a forest ranger/detective and his family. In this novel, a "gangster" from Chicago is heading to the Badlands to recoup his hidden money. Joe and his family becomed involved when a girl riding with the gangster, claims to be April, a foster daughter to the Pickens. Box tells a great story of the havoc to the environment by people and the beauty of Wyoming and the Dakotas. |
| Jane Squires ([email protected]) |
| Love's Rescue by Tammy Barley |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I am about 3/4 way through this book. It is inspirational and uplifting and has encouraged me in tough times. None of us today have gone through what people during the Civil War and Indians encountered during that time. To continue to have faith after watching your family burn would take a lot from a person. Jess and Jake are two people God brings together in rough times and it is amazing to see God's plan at work. This book is so woven to keep you reading page after page and hard to put down. |
| Sandra F. |
| The Tainted Snuff Box by Rosemary Stevens |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
A so-so period mystery featuring Beau Brummell, fashion icon for Regency England. Amusing but not long on plot. |
| Kay |
| A Change Had to Come by Gwynne Forster |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I love the writing style of this author. She is very versatile. As a former demographer for the United Nations she really brings that experience to her writing. Her latest release did not disappoint. |
| Kathy Vallee |
| Out Of The Shadows by Kay Hooper |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
When you think the next book can not get better they do, this book is so good hard to put down. Sheriff Miranda Knight is trying to catch a serial killer who is killing the teenagers so she has to call in The Special FBI unit and come to find out the head of that teaam who once was her lover. Great page turner. |
| A. Brim |
| Whiskey Island by Emilie Richards |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Great book about three sisters and the saloon that has been in their family for years. Their personal struggles with each other and their relationships with others. |
| Debbie ([email protected]) |
| Mistaken Identity by Lisa Scottoline |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is an interesting story about twins --- the good one and the bad one. In this story, Bennie Rosato, is asked to defend a woman accused of murdering her lover. The problem is that the accused killer may be Bennie's twin. As in the past, the story centers on corrupt policemen, as Bennie and her all female law firm, rush to develop the case for Alice Connolly. The story has the ups and downs of a rollercoaster, as Bennie's mother dies, and as Bennie's father enteres her life. The huge question is what constitutes family. Bennie must decide at the end of the book, as well as the reader. Grady, Bennie's boyfriend, states "Who's your family? Family is who you feel close to, who you love, and who loves you in return. Gives to you. You aren't stuck with the family you're born with. At some point, you grow up and choose your family, Bennie. You make it." At the end of the novel, Scottoline acknowledges that she discovered when she was 30, the existence of a half sister. That knowledge is the basis for this book. Scottoline does a good job with this topic. |
| T. Thomas |
| 206 Bones by Kathy Reichs |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Actually 3 1/2. Latest in her series about Temperance Brennan. Starts off slow, but then picks up the pace. |
| Fran |
| Til Morning Light by Ann Moore |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A wonderful ending to the Gracelin O'Malley series. I adored the series. My only complaint is that the end seemed a bit rushed. Otherwise, I'd highly recommend all three books in this series. |
| Char J. |
| Addicted Like Me by Karen Franklin and Lauren King |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I have read many memoirs on recovery but this one was a non-stop journey of looking at addiction from all dimensions within a family. This is a compelling book that is not only a powerful read, but will be of help to many people. |
| Brenda K |
| The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is the first book in a series. It was written for older elementary / lower middle-school students. The story started out slowly, but 1/5 of the way through the book it really got interesting. The book really held my attention. Near the end I could not put the book down. I look forward to reading the second book in the series. |
| Brenda K |
| Carpool Diem by Nancy Star |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
** spoiler alert ** The "Soccer Mom" story drew me to this book, as I am a part-time "Soccer Mom." The author kept the characters true to life. I felt Annie's pain when she was trying to balance work and home. For a minute I did think Tim was not being true to his marriage, but I was happy that he was being true. I did feel bad that the "Power" team had a crazy coach. I would recommend this book to a woman who is a mom and is looking for a lite read. |
| Lorna |
| The Pact by Jodi Picoult |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This is an early book by Jodi Picoult. It really doesn't compare to what she has written after this novel. It is a love story with some intrigue about a boy and girl who grew up together and then fell in love. The girl commits suicide (or did she?) and the boy is arrested for her murder (or is it really a murder?). It's a good read but the author has greatly improved over the years. |
| Loretta Sanford ([email protected]) |
| South of Broad by Pat Conroy |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Conroy certainly loves Charleston, South Carolina! 8 high school seniors meet and become close friends. Football, marriage, love, Hurricaine Hugo, integration, class snobbery, the Catholic Church but also AIDS, incest, a psychotic murderer, child molestation, mental illness, and suicide. Maybe a little too much! |
| Debbie ([email protected]) |
| Irish Eyes by Kathy Hogan Trocheck |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This is the last of the Callahan Garrity series, Trocheck changed her name to Mary Kay Andrews and began writing about Weezie and Bebe. I must admit that the last 4 of the Callahan series are good. This is a Southern writer, but I think that readers in the 1990's were not ready for stories where blacks and whites were friends. Irish Eyes deals with the problems of police officers: the lack of salary and the need to work extra "security" work to survive financially. The sad news is the death of detective Bucky Deavers, Callahan's best friend, and Mac moving to Nashville for a new job. I will miss this series. |
| Debi |
| The Physick Book of Deliverance Dane by Katherine Howe |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
When I first began this book I thought it was going to be heavy on the witchcraft, black cats and all. Boy, was I delighted to find that that wasn't the case at all! By presenting the past Salem witch trials and the present-day mystery, the author kept my attention until the very end! Great book! |
| Debi |
| The Devil's Punchbowl by Greg Iles |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
What a great thriller! Greg Iles has outdone himself with this one! The mayor of Natchez, Mississippi fights the crime and corruption that comes with riverboat gambling only to find that he must choose between his family or his beloved city. Can he save both? |
| L. Hann |
| The Survivors Club by Lisa Gardner |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Excellent read. Lisa Gardner will have you on the edge of your seat. Just when you thought you figured it out with Griffin, you will go OH! Very suspenseful. |
| L Green |
| Lucky Charm by Carly Phillips |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A fast-moving romantic comedy. Can't put it down. |
| Debbie ([email protected]) |
| Swimsuit by James Patterson |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
As usual, Patterson provides a novel that you cannot put down --- so, all housework and relationships were avoided in an attempt to discover if the killer, Henri Benoit, is caught by the police. What a terrible man --- and supposedly he was beaten as a child. The newspaper writer/cop, Ben Hawkins, races to find the members of the Peepers/Alliance. You read the horror, and with disgust realize that these sick people do exist. After reading a Patterson novel, I do not want to leave the house. I feel that at times, his novels are too graphic, and he is just seeking thrills. His novels do not employ the depth of JD James or Elizabeth George. |
| Kellie ([email protected]) |
| Bogart: In Search of My Father by Stephen Humphrey Bogart |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I really enjoy books about real people. I like reading about the lives of celebrities and famous people, and what makes them tick. I went through a stage many years ago where all I wanted to do was watch old movies, like Key Largo, The Maltese Falcon, Casablanca, Sabrina, and a bunch of John Wayne westerns. I was mesmerized by them --- they are so different from the movies of today. Of all the oldies I saw, I became especially fond of Humphrey Bogart. His style was so unique, and I instantly became a fan. I found this book in an antique shop several years ago and finally got around to reading it. I think Stephen Bogart did a fantastic job. Each chapter begins with the continuation of a memory of a trip made to his old family home in Los Angeles with his mom in 1993. He reveals a piece of this memory in each chapter. Stephen, who has spent almost his whole life trying to forget his father, realizes he needs to remember. He finally wants to remember. So, he talks to all of the people who knew his dad to help him learn more about the man he only was able to spend 8 years of his life with. Humphrey Bogart was a genuine guy. He loved to sail and drink with his friends. He was a no-nonsense type who told it like it was. He didn't like phony actors. Stephen interviewed several people who knew Humphrey, including his mom, Lauren Bacall. They helped Stephen piece together some of the missing pieces of the life of a man he didn't really know. Now, after reading this, I want to go back and watchThe African Queen and some of the other Bogart movies I have yet to see. It was great to learn about a legend. |
| Margie |
| The First Law by John Lescroart |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Another in the series of Abe Glitsky/Dismas Hardy mysteries. Abe is back from an injury, but not assigned to homicide. His father's best friend is murdered, and he becomes involved. This book will hold your interest, but is not an edge-of-your seat thriller. |
| Kellie ([email protected]) |
| Slipknot by Linda Greenlaw |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
#1 of the Jane Bunker mystery-If you like to read books about the ocean and the fishing industry off the coast of Maine, this was an excellent story about that. Since the author used to be a captain herself, she has a lot to teach us about this subject. I thought the mystery aspect of this book could have been better. There wasn't that much of a climax. And when the mystery was solved, it was kind of lame. I've read THE HUNGRY OCEAN by Greenlaw and thought it was great. I think the author's attempt at mystery writing was valid. Hopefully it will get better as the series continues. |
| Carol Newey |
| Intervention by Robin Cook |
| Rating: 1 Stars |
|
I could not believe that Robin Cook actually wrote this book. Certainly not up to his usual "hard to lay down" books. |
| Carol Newey |
| The Help by Kathryn Stockett |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
An interesting story and well written. It kept me spellbound. |
| Carol |
| Julie & Julia by Julie Powell |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Our book club will be reading this in the spring. We are hoping the DVD will be out by then. We'll watch the movie and do a book discussion the same day. Not sure this book would generate a good book discussion. Along with a movie critique, it will be an enjoyable time. I like to cook so that is why this was of interest. Doesn't hurt that there is a movie out too. Have read JULIA CHILD'S LIFE IN FRANCE which was wonderful. This book doesn't achieve the wonderful status, just the OK, I'm hooked and I Will Finish The Book status. |
| Jud Hanson |
| The Passage by David Poyer |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This is a military novel, centered around Lt. Dan Lenson. Although disjointed at times, it is generally well-written and is a good demonstration of the author's military experience. I give it 3 stars because sometimes I couldn't figure out what a sub-storyline had to do with the main one. |
| Carol Newey |
| South of Broad by Pat Conroy |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
This book is well written and descriptive however I found the story annoyingly tedious and I could not finish it. |
| Judy |
| Evil at Heart by Chelsea Cain |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Gretchen Lowell strikes again-or does she? Det. Archie Sheridan is in a mental hospital when body parts (ala Gretchen) are found at a rest stop. Reporter Susan Ward joins in the hunt for Lowell and the trail of bodies grows longer and the crimes are ever gruesome. However looking like Lowell's nasty work, Lowell has a media-created following who might just be copycats. Nasty business indeed. Intense read as always and I suggest reading the first two in the series to get the background. I had to finish this book during the day because it's pretty gruesome. I do hope this is the last we read of Gretchen; this book bordered on running this serial killer phenom into the ground. But I would like to see more Archie & Susan pursuing other criminals. |
| Debbie ([email protected]) |
| Midnight Clear by Kathy Hogan Trocheck |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
#7 in the Callahan Garrity series set in Atlanta, Georgia, about a 30 something owner of a cleaning service and an investigation service. I thoroughly enjoyed the sense of family in this story set at Christmas. The sense of forgiving and dealing with all the problems in an imperfect family. In this adventure, long lost brother Brian returns home with his 3 year-old daughter. The plot thickens when Brian's wife, Shay, is found stabbed to death. Then a retired detective decides that this case is like a 10-year-old unsolved Jane Doe stabbing, and Brian is the primary suspect for both murders. The story is like a roller coaster, one of the rides in FunTown, a closed amusement park, as Callahan races to save her niece and brother. |
| Ck |
| The Lost Throne by Chris Kuzneski |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Covert action in Russia while rescuing a pretty but smart woman. Murder of monks in a monestary in Greece. Interpol. Former MANIACs (U.S. government secret forces). My husband really liked this so I thought I should share the fun. |
| Jud Hanson |
| The Jesus Papers by Michael Baigent |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
If you have a fragile religious faith or were "ruined" by THE DAVINCI CODE, stop reading now. THE JESUS PAPERS by Michael Baigent (Holy Blood, Holy Grail co-author) is a no-holds barred look at the man millions of Christians call Jesus. Is he the person most of us has learned about in Sunday School and Church all our lives or were we just hearing propaganda for all those years? This is the primary question that Baigent attempts to answer in this book. He takes an in-depth look at the writings of historians such as Josephus and of the Gospels and points out numerous inconsistencies between what we know of customs and politics of Jesus' time and what the Bible say-there are more differences then you might think. Baigent also discusses the history of the Catholic Church and how over time, women were relegated to second-class citizens in the Church. Perhaps the most controversial question in the book is if Jesus actually survived being crucified. While there is no conclusive evidence he did, there are clues that point in that direction, such as the painting of the 14th Station at Rennes le Chateau in Southern France that shows Jesus' body being moved after the beginning of Passover (indicated by the nighttime landscape and full moon in the background on page 50). Baigent uncovers that there were substances commonly available at the time which served as sedatives and could be used to mimic death in an individual. The bottom line is that this book has more questions than answers and should make even the most faithful people take note. |
| Debbie ([email protected]) |
| Rough Justice by Lisa Scottoline |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This is a courtroom/lawyer drama set in Pennsylvannia, with an all-female law firm with Bennie Rosato, Mary DiNunzio, Judy Carrier, and Marta Richter. This is a fast-paced adventure, with all four women trying to finish the race in the winning circle. The law firm is defending a real estate mogul, Elliot Steere, accused of killing a homeless man. The women undercover a voting scheme and the discovery that Elliot killed the homeless man in an attempt to cover the tracks. Scottoline does a good job with the action, but the setting is a little weak. |
| Julie H. |
| Sorcery and Cecelia or The Enchanted Chocolate Pot by Patricia Wrede and Caroline Stevermer |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Cecelia and Kate are cousins, living in an Austen-like world where magic is just part of everyday life. Kate is off to London for her first Season, while Cecy stays behind in the country. Both write notes furiously back and forth about their lives. However, there is a menance of some dark magic lurking and the pair dual together against it. I really enjoyed this novel and am planning to read more about Cecelia and Kate in their next adventure. |
| Jean M. |
| Curse of the Spellmans by Lisa Lutz |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I liked it even better than THE SPELLMAN FILES. |
| Debbie ([email protected]) |
| Strange Brew by Kathy Hogan Trocheck |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
#6 of the Callahan Garrity series set in Atlanta, Georgia. In this installation, Atlanta has been hit by a big storm and the neighborhood is ongoing cosmetic and financial changes. The yuppies are moving in and throwing out the street people and the old stores. The story revolves around a microbrewery and a secret from the past. I enjoy the closeness of Callahan and her mother Edna, plus the friendship among the ladies and man of the cleaning crew. Trocheck writes like many of her friends: Margaret Maron, Sarah Shaber, and Cathy Pickens. All four of these women are etched in Southern fiction. |
| Jud Hanson |
| Cults, Conspiracies and Secret Societies by Arthur Goldwag |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Freemasons....Templar Knights.....Heaven's Gate....Skull and Bones. These are just a few of the topics discussed in Cults, Conspiracies and Secret Societies by Arthur Goldwag. I have always been fascinated with groups such as these and even more so since reading THE DAVINCI CODE. Goldwag covers just about everything from obscure groups such as Best Friends Animal Society to Area 51 to Scientology with and amazing amount of detail. The doctrines of these groups range from the downright bizarre to the hysterically outlandish. Those of you who are 80's kids like myself will remember the rumors about AIDS-that is was released by the Government. The older generation will remember the Tuskegee Experiment, in which sharecroppers were infected with syphilis and then given placebos in the guise of medication so that the effects of the disease could be documented. My favorite section was the part on the Priory of Sion which I hadn't heard of until I read DAVINCI CODE. Bottom line: this is a great book that can be read straight thru or only the sections that interest the reader. |
| Jud Hanson |
| Red Sky in Morning by Patrick Culhane |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
The United States is two years into World War II and Lt. Peter Maxwell is itching for some action. He finally gets his chance aboard the ammunition ship Liberty Hill Victory. However, he discovers to his dismay that the crew is entirely African American and has no experience handling ordinance. To add to an already tense situation, there is a murderer on board and Maxwell, along with the crew, must discover who it is and make it back to port alive-a daunting task at best. Patrick Culhane's Red Sky in Morning is a great novel set in the 1940s during WWII. It harkens back to a simpler time for detective and mystery novels, when characters relied more on their wits instead of technology. Patrick Culhane does this extremely well. This novel is engaging with believable characters and a realistic plot. I encourage anyone who is a fan of detective novels to read this book-you won't be sorry. |
| Sandra F. |
| Dying to Sin by Stephen Booth |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is the first Stephen Booth novel that I have read and it was a pleasant experience. The atmosphere and characters are well developed and the story is riveting. |
| Genie |
| High Profile by Robert B. Parker |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This whodunit begins with the murder of Walton Weeks, a Rush Limbaugh like political radio personality. Discovered by a jogger, Week's had been shot and his body hung in a tree. This, of course, causes a media frenzy. Adding fuel to the fire was the discovery of the body of a second murder victim, Weeks' pregnant girlfriend, in the dumpster of a local restaurant. As if circumstances weren't bad enough, both victims were friends of the governor who decides to assert his influence into the investigation. Potential suspects include two of Weeks ex-wives, the widow and a bodyguard all of whom have good reason to want him dead. This leaves Stone with the problem of determining the most likely motive. Jesse Stone soon finds himself entrenched in the biggest investigation ever conducted in Paradise. More trouble surfaces when Jesse's ex-wife, Jenn, turns up on the scene asking for help to rid herself of a stalker. Stone asks Boston based P.I., Sunny Randall, to serve as both investigator as well as Jenn's bodyguard. Paired for the first time in Blue Screen, Parker has teamed Jesse Stone, ex-LAPD detective turned Paradise police chief, and Sunny Randall for a second time. As the investigation begins, Stone finds himself under the scrutiny of the media as well as the governor's office. In a sub-plot Stone and Randall are still weighed down with emotional baggage from their exes; a situation which outweighs their attempt to establish a relationship. |
| Sally B., San Antonio TX |
| Eclipse by Stephanie Meyer |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
2.5 stars. Belle is spoiled by all around her and is always on one guilt trip or another. Poorest so far of the series. |
| Kaye |
| Sworn to Silence by Linda Castillo |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
When horror comes to the small Ohio town of Painters Mill, police chief Kate Burkhold is thunderstruck. The MO of the latest killing is exactly the same as murders, dubbed the slaughterhouse murders, committed 16 years ago. The mindboggling detail is Kate thought she had shot the killer in self defense. Could he still be alive or is there a copy cat serial killer out there? Kate, a young former Amish woman, along with her two siblings has kept this secret for years. The Amish prefer to keep these things to themselves and handle it their own way. When Kate left the community she took her nightmares and secrets with her. Now that she is back as police chief and has to investigate the latest crime, she hesitates to call in outside help because they might uncover more than just the perpetrator's identity. The City council and the mayor go behind her back and call in several other agencies to help with the investigation. The county sheriff, Nate Detrich, along with an agent from BCI are called in. Who does the BCI send but John Tomasetti; an agent the bureau could do without. He's a former rogue cop, just barely holding onto his job, who needs pain killers to get him through the day and booze to get him through the night. His involvement in this case may just be his saving grace. In the end, he might just surprise the agency and Kate along with himself. Even with all his vices, I found him to be a likeable character. This is a well paced, excellently written thriller. It kept me on the edge of my seat with the gripping suspense, chilling detail and very believable dialogue. One caveat if you are squeamish: there are some gruesome details of the murder victims. Do not let that deter you from reading this book as it will be easy to just skip over those parts. Highly recommended for fans of mystery, thrillers or police proceduals. |
| Tanya |
| The Physick Book of Deliverance Dane by Katherine Howe |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is a wonderful book based on the Salem Witch Trials. I would definitely recommend reading it. It is a debut novel with a present day take on popular history. |
| Kim S. |
| Outsider in Amsterdam by JanWillem Van de Wetering |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Go retro....Flashback to Amsterdam in the late 1970's with book one in the Grijpstra & de Gier Mystery Series. The oddly matched partners, Grijpstra and de Gier, make for a wonderfully quirky investigative team. Rinus de Gier is always willing to sacrifice himself in the line of duty especially when there are ladies involved. He also has no problem going the distance, when called upon, to out drink any suspect as long as he can get home in time to feed his cat Oliver. The long suffering Henk Grijpstra will follow a lead to the ends of the earth as long as he can get away from his wife. An interesting series that reveals Amsterdam in the 1970's...sex, drugs, and death. |
| Kim S. |
| The Brutal Telling by Louise Penny |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Often labeled as a cozy Penny's books are much more complex, her imagery alone elevates them. In this book Penny deftly intersperses poetry, mythology, psychology, and history but somehow the over the top weirdness, like Ruth's dinner party, is slightly jarring and diminishes the writing. It is not that this book isn't good, it is, very good.... maybe I just don't like ducks. Louise Penny is someone to keep an eye on and if you like intelligent somewhat offbeat cozies someone you should be reading. |
| Sally B., San Antonio TX |
| The Land of the Silver Apples by Nancy Farmer |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Listened to the unabridged audio version. A young adult, or more like a children's fantasy novel. This is the 2nd in a trilogy (I did not read/listen to the 1st book). |
| Genie |
| Hand of Evil by J. A. Jance |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This is the third book in the series featuring former L.A. TV news anchor Ali Reynolds. Ali is in a bit of a funk as she recovers from the murder of her ex-husband. She has a good support group; her parents, her son and her old high school friend, police detective Dave Holman. Out of the blue, wealthy recluse Arabella Ashcroft sent a request to Ali asking her to meet with her. Since Arabella's mother was responsible for bestowing Ali with a much needed college scholarship, Ali felt obligated to agree to the visit. Arabella has been reading Ali's blog, cutlooseblog.com, and wants Ali's help in writing a memoir. During the meeting Arabella claims her childhood was troubled and indicated that her late stepbrother, Bill, was the major cause of the problem. Bill's son is unhappy about her decision and has made threats on her life if she follows through with writing the book. In order to explain the issues Arabella wants to discuss, she asks Ali to read her diary. Ali soon discovers a tale filled with sexual abuse and murder. As a sub-plot, Dave's daughter Crystal disappears from his ex-wife's Las Vegas home. Dave and Ali are soon on Crystal's trail. As it turns out, Crystal has her own tale to relate which leads to the trail of a couple of child molesters whose actions were enabled through use of the internet. Both plots lead to psychopaths who have left a number of victims in their wake. This is not the best of J.A. Jance's work but is an OK read. It helps if you have read the two previous books of the series. |
| Linda |
| Sandman Slim by Richard Kadrey |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Urban noir fantasy...great protagonist and supporting cast. Funny and fast-paced! |
| Julie |
| Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya sisterhood by Rebecca Wells |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A delightful book about three generations of crazy southern women and their travails through marriages, motherhood and always their love for each other. This is really an enjoyable read and an oldy but goody. |
| Debbie ([email protected]) |
| Heart Trouble by Kathy Hogan Trocheck |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
#5 in Callahan Garritya series set in Atlanta about a woman who quit the Atlanta police department and started a house cleaning business and a private investigation business. Business is blooming for Garrity and she must turn away offers. Into this mess, a doctor's wife hires her to find the dirt on her soon-to-be ex husband. The twists and turns are thrilling. Also, Garrity's mother, Edna, is having heart problems. I enjoy Trocheck's quick style, and quirky characters. Trocheck tries to show the racism between white/black friends and workers. |
| Tracy L. Demarest |
| Simple Rules for...The Road Warrior Princess by Debbie Anderson |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I stumbled upon it while looking for travel books on Amazon.com and boy what a treat! It's an inspirational guide for women to get them to take a road trip. It motivates you to embark on a journey whether it's on your own, with some friends, or even family. It gives you the confidence that you're going to need when driving through unfamiliar areas on your trip. No detail is forgotten in this book either. It starts out with knowing the ins and outs of your car and how to perform some light maintenance on your vehicle just in case a situation should arise. Some examples are changing the oil, windshield wipers, adding radiator fluid, and filling your tires properly just to name a few. The author lets you know exactly what to pack and where to pack it in case of any emergencies. If you're not sure that you can afford to take a road trip, it gives some ideas on how to save money, budget properly, or even how to take one with just the money you have now. If you have any inhibitions on getting into the car and taking a drive to whatever destination you so choose, this book will erase all of them. There are also personal stories in the book which is a great addition because you know she's actually experienced as opposed to some other books by authors that don't give any proof of their expertise. Now, if you're one of those people who like to say I'd like to but I can't because I have no money, I have kids, I'm married, I have pets, or I'm JUST TOO SCARED!, she has an answer for every excuse you can think of. By the end of this book you'll feel empowered. You'll want to stand on top of a mountain and say "I am woman here me roar!". You'll feel unstoppable. You'll be motivated to not only take a trip, but have the feeling that you can accomplish anything and that anything IS possible! |
| Kellie ([email protected]) |
| Still Summer by Jacquelyn Mitchard |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
THE DEEP END OF THE OCEAN must be one of the best books EVER! because I actually enjoyed this book. The reviews have been pretty harsh. Everyone who has read Deep End has thought this one was nothing close. This is a story about a group of women who decide to go on a private cruise in the Caribbean. When tragedy strikes, their history pulls them together? or pulls them apart? Reading this book, I thought the focus was truly on the plot, not the characters. It was a bit difficult to keep them all straight. Eventually, the characters became more of a voice and I thought the story line flowed very well. I really enjoyed this book. I have avoided THE DEEP END OF THE OCEAN because of it's story line. I may try it now since I've read this one. |
| Judy O. |
| Water, Stone, Heart by Will North |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I loved this book, set in the tiny village of Boscastle, Cornwall in the UK. Two Americans fall in love there, in spite of the fact that both of them have previously escaped from bad marriages. Andrew is there to learn how to build stone hedges (fences), and Nicola is an artist who does beautiful paintings. The real star of the book for me is the village of Boscastle, as I loved being there with them. In 2004 the actual village suffered a horrendous flash flood. This flood is featured in the climax of the book, and it's very graphic----based on true facts that the author has researched about that time. Fascinating. |
| Readinrobin ([email protected]) |
| Seducing Mr. Darcy by Gwyn Cready |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I just finished this romance and it was awesome. It's about a woman who is sent into PRIDE AND PREJUDICE where she has a steamy interlude with Darcy. Back in real life, she discovers that the book has now changed because of her interference, and she must find a way to fix the story. Along with the Austen references, you'll never look at the game of Scrabble the same way! |
| Rita Powell |
| Swimsuit by James Patterson |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
So far, suspenseful and interesting, but not yet a page-turner. I'm intrigued by the amount of violence and how the characters seem true-to-life, but the bad man is a mystery. |
| Julie H. |
| TMI by Sarah Quigley |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Becca likes to talk and tends to share too much about herself and her friends with others. When she kisses and tells a bit too much about her first boyfriend, Becca learns how much that can hurt. In an attempt to control her oversharing, she decides to write an anonymous blog as a diary to help keep her thoughts more private. With friends Katie and Jai by her side, Becca navigates this highschool drama with character. A cute, if not overly reaching, highschool novel. |
| Judy |
| Wicked by Gregory Maguire |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
I absolutely loved Wicked the Musical, but the book bears little resemblance so I was disappointed. Had I read the book first, I may have felt more charitable. Writing an alternative to the well-known Wizard of Oz story was genius. The book is not so light hearted and much more political and violent. Elphaba (Wicked Witch of the West) is born with green skin & huge teeth. Didn't seem likely she'd grow up to be popular girl on campus. However it is interesting to see the transformation of THE popular girl (Glinda...the Good Witch) and the role of Elphaba's sister, yes, the one who had a house drop on her. The early part of the story concerns Elphaba's troubled you and it isn't until near the end that most of the characters from the Wizard of Oz appear. It took me weeks to finish this. |
| Kathy Vallee |
| Hiding In the Shadows by Kay Hooper |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is a wonderful book on the FBI series and such a great twist at the end you will not see it coming! |
| Linda Bentzen |
| Labyrinth by Kate Mosse |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This story brings together seventeen-year-old Alais in 1209 with Alice in 2005. An action-packed adventure of modern conspiracy and medieval passion. |
| Brady ([email protected]) |
| One Thousand White Women by Jim Fergus |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is a most creative novel with the story of the federal government in 1875 making a deal with the Indians where they would get 1,000 white women to marry and have children with which cements agreements for peace between the red man and the white man. This is the story of that agreement and what happens to the women. I had to research this to see if there was a basis of fact to this story as it was so realistic and interesting. A great read ! |
| Judith Vianna |
| Girl With the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Intelligently written with many twists and turns that keeps you guessing as to the final outcome. |
| Theresa N ([email protected]) |
| October Song by Beverly Lewis |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Three short stories that are a continuation of three separate novels happening in autumn. Uplifting romances offering hope and courage as couples overcome obstacles. The author has Bible scriptures through out adding to the stories |
| Sandra F. |
| Giotto's Hand by Iain Pears |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A great story featuring art dealer Jonathan Argyll. Argyll is in England tracing stolen paintings and mulling over his future. Very entertaining. |
| Sandra F. |
| Fortune's Daughter by Alice Hoffman |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I am a big fan of Alice Hoffman. This book deals with the anguish of a mother forced to give up her child at birth. Lovely writing. |
| Sandra F. |
| The Tin Roof Blowdown by James Lee Burke |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I had looked forward to reading this book because of Hurricane Katrina, but I did not find it as good as previous books in the series. I think Burke took too much time talking about the lack of government aid in the crisis. |
| Glenn Pessano |
| River Teeth by David James Duncan |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
A collection of short stories, with a mix of essay and fiction. My favorites are a couple of fiction pieces. The first is called "The Garbage Man's Daughter", about a young girl who befriends the garbage man and likens him to Santa Claus, the Easter Bunny and the Tooth Fairy. The second is called "Not Rocking The Boats" about a six foot six anarchistic fly-fisherman named Jeremiah who rails against the overdone how-to fly fishing magazine articles and books. |
| Fran |
| A Brother's Journey by Richard Pelzer |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Richard Pelzer (David Pelzer's brother) shares his childhood story of abuse at the hand of his mother. I'd like to beleive that David and Richard's story was an extreme form of abuse. This mother was awful to the children she targeted. However, in reallity, it is scary to think that this could be the life of children today. I'd like to think that teachers, medical professionals and neighbors would be more likely to report this abuse today. It was interesting to hear his perspective of the life David lead as well as his journey into taking back his life. Overall, a good story, but very sad. I appreciate his message of hope throughout the book and desire to educate the public on the pervasiveness of child abuse. |
| Tia |
| The Crowning Glory of Calla Lily Ponder by Rebecca Wells |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A really good southern fiction story. It spans over 30 years in Calla Lily Ponder's life. I enjoyed the changes from the 1950's to the 80's, the close family ties, and even the incidents that tore at my heart and actually made me cry. Even if you didn't like the YA YA's (this is a seperate story line) you really need to read this book, it's fabulous. The characters are totally believable and they might actually remind you of people you know. I couldn't put it down. |
| Grady Harp ([email protected]) |
| Dragon House by John Shors |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Another John Shors Triumph! John Shors continues to establish his reputation as one of this decade's more important writers, an author who understands the art of blending artistic prose with an always surprising depth of knowledge of the cultures he chooses to explore in his fascinating novels - from India in his debut BENEATH A MARBLE SKIN, to war time South Pacific in BESIDE A BURNING SEA, and now to Vietnam in this absorbing novel DRAGON HOUSE. There are passages in his works that suggest the gifts of W. Somerset Maugham, Joseph Conrad, Eugene Burdick and William Lederer ('The Ugly American'), and Evelyn Waugh, and yet he maintains his own literary style, mixing observations of physical circumstances with the manner in which the world as he finds it interfaces with his well-sculpted characters. Shors creates characters about whom we care - Iris Rhodes, a devoted daughter of a Vietnam Vet who grants her dying father's wish to create a haven for the brutally neglected street children in the country where his life and conscience changed in the Vietnam War, and Noah Woods, a severely disabled Iraqi War Vet consumed with anger and guilt who joins Iris in moving to Ho Chi Minh City (ne Saigon) in an attempt to salvage his life. Once the two arrive in Ho Chi Minh City they discover the difficulties that surround their proposed project and it is only though the growing friendship with the people of the city that they are able to make a dent in the struggle for life that surrounds them. Very slowly but with solid technique Shors introduces the various Vietnamese children who will benefit from the project. In taking his time to completely cast his novel he offers in depth details about both pre-war and post-war Vietnam - the customs, the atmosphere, the foods, the smells, the dreams, both tenuous and crushed, that have been with the people of Vietnam since the devastation of the most unpopular war in history. It all works well as Shors accompanies quietly on a journey that makes a solid statement about how each of us can heal from past injuries. This is a novel that stands well on its own merits, a strong contender for prizes and a position on the bestseller list. But it does more. For those of us who coped with the war in Vietnam firsthand, this book offers fresh insights as we now look back on that time. Shors gives us a solid example of how Vietnam Vets can find succor and growth from an experience that paralyzed many young minds. For that Shors deserves our thanks. But even beyond that, DRAGON HOUSE restores our faith that superb storytelling with the technique of a polished literary mind is still alive and well! |
| Marjorie Clark ([email protected]) |
| Swimsuit by James Patterson |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Good book in the Patterson tradition. Even though I now know that he recruites writers to colaborate on these books. Still love the quick, suspenseful to the point writing. |
| F. Tessa Bartels |
| They Came Like Swallows by William Maxwell |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
3.5 stars This is a work of literary fiction and a good discussion book, but it was not what I was expecting. On the other hand, the author paints a portrait of the mother - yet gives her virtually no voice. Interesting book, but not great (in my opinion). In fairness, my book club had read CROW LAKE by Mary Lawson the month immediately prior. Both deal with the loss of parent(s) and the affect on the family members left behind. CROW LAKE, being the more contemporary of the two, was more to my taste. |
| F. Tessa Bartels |
| Mariette in Ecstasy by Ron Hansen |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
2.5 stars This is an odd book, with a strangely compelling story. The language is simply beautiful. But I'm full of doubt in the end, and I don't think I'd recommend it to many. |
| JW Texan |
| Sand Sharks by Margaret Maron |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
As usual, Ms. Maron has written a novel with the elements of familiar territory of family, regional interest, and suspense. The reader is drawn to Judge Knott's experiences and identifies with her personally. Good reading! |
| Bill |
| Fear the Worst by Linwood Barclay |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Barclay is a wonderful writer with a wry sense of humor that springs up at the oddest times. This story is a bit preposterous and over the top, but is well told, and an enjoyable read. Most suspense readers will like the book. |
| Natalie Brooks Powell |
| House on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet by Jaime Ford |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
An excellent book set in Seattle during the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II. |
| Marisa |
| In the Company of the Courtesan by Sarah Dunant |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is a story about relationships. I felt that the plot was secondary to the relationships. I didn't know this going in and I wish I had. The relationships are wonderfully written. While the relationship between Bucino the dwarf and Fiammetta is the main story of the book, it's really the relationship between Bucino and La Draga that is the most compelling. The story begins in Rome where Fiammetta the courtesan must flee for her life. She takes Bucino and a few precious stones to Venice where they work extremely hard to re-establish themselves and regain the success they had known in Rome. La Draga enters the picture in Venice and although she is not in the story much, her character is pivotal. A wonderful read. You really feel as if you are there walking through Venice right along with Bucino, seeing the sights as he sees them. Wonderful historical fiction. |
| Ana Marie |
| The Calder Series by Janet Dailey |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
It took me 2 years to find all 8 books in this series but well worth the wait. The series covers a hundred years of the Calder family's life. You will not be disappointed in reading these books. I hated to see the story end. It starts out with the family crossing the country in wagons, read what it was like to be a woman during that era. Read how the struggles this family went through made them become closer and succeed despite all the hardships they faced. A truly great saga! |
| K P |
| Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A quirky book that I can't stop reading. |
| Donna Cruze |
| Holy War, Inc. by Peter L. Bergen |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I've had this book for a while and finally got around to reading it last week. I finished it just last night. It's great background for anyone who wants to understand the roots of 9/11 and other terrorist acts spawned by Bin Laden. |
| Ozarks Anne |
| Absolute Scandal by Penny Vincenzi |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Hands down Ms. Vincenzi is my favorite author of all...which is saying a lot. I apparently missed the US publication of this novel but as soon as I realized, it was available, I read it immediately. And...as always, the reader gets so involved with all of the characters...and there are many....that the book.....though very long as all hers are...is hard to put down. |
| CK |
| Someone Knows My Name by Lawrence Hill |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Aminata Diallo is born in Bayo, a small African village. Her father makes jewelry and her mother "catches" newborns. Meena is stolen from her village, sees her father murdered and is transported from Sierra Leone for South Carolina on a slave ship. The story is long and complicated and beautiful. Read for the story. Read for the insight into slave trade and the life of a woman born in Africa and transported to a strange country. And, read for the joy of knowing that some people like this woman, although she is a fictitious character, escaped and fought against an unjust and brutal system. |
| Elaine Gasaway |
| The Sunne in Splendour by Sharon Kay Penman |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I'm really enjoying this fictional account of the life of England's Richard III. Unlink most works of fiction (think Shakespeare), it paints him in a sympathetic light. Now I need to go back and read the history books, and try to separate the fact from the fiction. |
| Debbie ([email protected]) |
| The Hanging Valley by Peter Robinson |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
#4 of the Alan Banks series set in England. The story was thrilling, the murders were mounting, but the ending was unexpected. I did not like the ending. |
| Fran |
| A Fistful of Rain by Greg Rucka |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A perfect summer read. You don't need to think too much yet it holds your interest. |
| Debi |
| If I Stay by Gayle Forman |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Even though this is a YA book, it is really good! A young girl is faced with a choice - stay true to her first love...music... or her family. Some good life lessons, some tears, and some laughter! I will recommend this to my high school students. |
| Erika |
| Envy by Anna Godbersen |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is the most excellent and astonishing novel I've read this week. The plot was dramatic and realistic. This novel is filled with dangerous secrets, outrageous past, gossips, betrayal, and of course, romance. In this third installment of The Luxe series, the characters gives Florida a visit and schemes continue to form and develop. This plot can never be guessed easily, which I think, kept my attention to this book. I can't wait for the last book, SPLENDOR. |
| Sandy |
| In the Heart of the Canyon by Elisabeth Hyde |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
From the author of THE ABORTIONIST'S DAUGHTER, this is a gripping new novel about a rafting trip through the Grand Canyon that changes the lives of everyone on board. You will never imagine what happens to Amy!!! |
| Laura Benjamin |
| My Life in France by Julia Child |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
After seeing commercials for the movie Julie and Julia, my curiosity was piqued. I was always a fan of Julia Child's and the way she brought so much fun to cooking. I realized however, that I did not know much about her so I decided to read this book. It is one of the best books I have ever read. Her words leap off from every page and you can almost hear her saying them in person. This book gives you an inside look into who Julia Childs really was. It is so much fun to read and so well written. She truly was an amazing woman! |
| Joyce Blume ([email protected]) |
| Ms by Kwei Quartey |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Escape to the new modern Ghana and also be imersed in the old with this wonderful read by first time author, Kwei Quartey. So much more than the mystery that is being solved. Travel from the capital city of Accra to a small rural town and a tiny village bound by superstition. Meet the compelling characters that Detective Dawson is trying to get to help him unravel both the current mystery and one from his childhood. |
| Margie |
| Promise Me by Harlan Coben |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Fast-moving story about a missing girl. Main character Myron has appeared in other books, so you get a more in-depth look at him. Hard book to put down! |
| Kellie ([email protected]) |
| Roadside Crosses by Jeffrey Deaver |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
#3 of the Katherine Dahl series-First, I still think Deaver is one of the best thriller/mystery writers out there. I enjoyed the computer game/blog theme in this book. It is very interesting. Deaver obviously does a great deal of research for his books and I always learn something when I read them. This book was definitely full of the twists and turns Deaver is known for. It will keep me reading into the night because I can't put it down. I enjoy the Katherine Daul series. I'm beginning to like her character and I think the Kinetic aspect is fascinating. The personal plot of the main character is starting to develop throughout the series. However, I thought some of the resolve to the mysteries in this book, were a bit far fetched. Some of them came out of left field. As a reader I felt like there wasn't enough revealed to agree that the solution was a possibility. This was disappointing for me because I really enjoy Deaver's writing style. Normally, the resolve makes sense and I am satisfied with it. I felt a bit uneasy with the ending of this book. I thought too much was revealed at the end and I felt cheated. The Dahl series is good but it still has a long way to go before it reaches Lincoln Rhyme levels. |
| Louisa |
| Dirty Water by Mary-Ann Tirone |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A fun read for "Red Socks Nation." A baby is left in the Sock's locker room just before a double-header. The body of a young woman is found in the Fens. Big Papi tries to help a young ball player from Dominican Republic, or is he? |
| Debi |
| The Cruelest Month by Louise Penny |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A very classic mystery set in Canada, Chief Inspector Gamache is called in to investigate a murder of a woman who was literally scared to death! I enjoyed this book, and I particularly enjoyed the twists and turns as the author presented the "red herrings!" |
| Kathy Vallee |
| Stealing Shadows by Kay Hooper |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Great book where psychic Cassie helps the LA police catch killers till she moves to a small to get away only to find herself right in the middle of tracking a seriel killer. |
| Sheila |
| South of Broad by Pat Conroy |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I have always loved Pat Conroy's books and this one is no exception. I am so involved in the characters in the book that I don't want the book to end. |
| Ron G |
| 44 Scotland Street by Alexander McCall Smith |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
He is quickly becoming my favorite author. This book does for Scotland what The Number One Ladies Detective Agency did for Botswana. Simply written, enjoyable and sometimes hilarious. Love that Bertie. |
| Elizabeth |
| The Girls by Lori Anderson |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I feel ill unequipped to give this novel its due. Simply amazing, both in writing talent and plot progression. Stunning and moving about a topic (conjoined twins) that could have been tawdry. Tissue worthy for both laughter and sadness. Oh.. |
| Ivy Pittman ([email protected]) |
| How Not to Act Old by Pamela Redmond Satran |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is a piss in your pants funny book of 185 ways how not to act old. Any woman over 40 needs to read this if nothing more than to get a good laugh...at herself or some of her girlfriends. For example, did you know that getting excited about Mondays is a dead giveaway that you do not have a life? I'm glad to say I never did (like Mondays) and that probably is because I do have a life. Thank you. |
| Elizabeth |
| Acid Row by Minette Walters |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
New to this author. I feel frustrated I am just discovering her, while excited I don't have to struggle with the anxiety of debut author love and wait....wait for more. Very human writing while managing to still create a thriller/mystery setting. Not action fluff, something much more. Lovely. |
| Pattie Berryhill ([email protected]) |
| A Reliable Wife by Robert Goolrick |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
1907, winter in Wisconsin, a lonely man places an ad for a reliable wife. Catherine arrives by train from Chicago to live in the Wisconsin wilderness. |
| J. Apgar |
| The Time Traveler's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Interesting read...sometimes felt it a little hard to follow with the (obvious!) time traveling going on but still a good story. Anxious to see the movie and see how the book is done. |
| uncutdog ([email protected]) |
| Pulp Culture by Frank M. Robinson & Lawrence Davidson |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is a coffee table sized book, jam packed with wizbang reproductions of zillions, well maybe just hundreds, of covers from the pulp era. If it is possible to bring back memories of an era most of us never knew; then this book succeeds brilliantly. The vibrantly alive, dazzlingly colored, action covers bring these pulps to life much as they did for our parents and grandparents of the 20's and 30's. Highly recommended for the young in spirit and the gray of hair alike, for who knows what evil lurks in these pages. |
| Jennifer Malinowski |
| Sworn to Silence by Linda Castillo |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A thriller of a mystery that takes place in a small Ohio town. The police chief happens to be a former member of the Amish community and a woman to boot! A gripping first novel. |
| Jennifer Malinowski |
| Baking Cakes in Kigali by Gaile Parkin |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
A nice book of stories about the daily life of a woman who supplements her families income by baking cakes in a refuge village in Kigali Africa. |
| Ivy ([email protected]) |
| The Land of Mango Sunsets by Dorothea Benton Frank |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A great insightful and funny read! It made we want to visit Sullivan Island, eat oysters, drink homemade wine and watch sunsets! This book has it all - deceit, sex, family and coming to terms with all of it. |
| Marion Miller ([email protected]) |
| Netherland by Joseph O'Neill |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
I think I am missing something in this acclaimed book. I just couldn't get involved in caring about any of the characters or the man telling the story. |
| Arthur |
| The Secret Agent by Joseph Conrad |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Late in the 19th Century, a clumsy and pathetically incompetent London-based operative of a unnamed Central Power ensnares an evern more hopeless youngster in a doomed terrorist plot to blow up the Greenwich Observatory. Conrad gives us a grimly fascinating tale that brings the reader deeply into the minds of the several characters who we encounter in in the course of this sparse and swiftly moving plot. |
| Debbie ([email protected]) |
| Legal Tender by Lisa Scottoline |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
A legal thriller set in Pennsylvania, about a lawyer. The story seems too unreal. This lawyer with her own firm becomes the prime suspect in three murders. Bennie Rosato, is suspected of killing her partner, a client, and a drug company CEO. Bennie, through her own determination finds the killers and solves the investigation. The sub-plot involves the shock treatment of Bennie's mother. The story is interesting, but lacks substance. |
| Eileen Quinn Knight |
| That Old Cape Magic by Richard Russo |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Russo is again at his best. This novel is exquisite in its development of character. Griffin the heroine is both funny and introspective. He is middle aged so he is dealing with his own flaws as well as the fllaws of his parents and the flaws of his offspring. Russo gets the issues of humanity so many of us struggle with. |
| Patricia Schrot |
| The Lovers by John Connolly |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
The latest in the series about Charlie Parker who has lost his PI license & has decided to investigate why his late father killed two teens & then committed suicide 25 years earlier. As usual with Connolly's books there is a touch of the supernatural which adds an interesting twist & makes you wonder..... |
| Patricia Schrot |
| The Cheater by Nacny Taylor Rosenberg |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is the story of a female serial killer who goes after men who commit adultery. An interesting concept of how she sets them up-but quite bloodthirsty how she kills them! |
| Patricia Schrot |
| Stone's Fall by Iain Pears |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I would have given the book 5 stars except for all the unnecessary information (in my opinion) about shipbuilding & banking! The story itself & the plot were very good and asked the question did John Stone-fall, commit suicide or was he murdered? The book goes backwards in time to show the reader the life & story of Stone & his wife Elizabeth. It had a very unusual twist ending. |
| Pat Forbess ([email protected]) |
| The Perfect Liar by Brenda Novak |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I have never been disappointed by a Brenda Novak romantic suspense book. I thought THE PERFECT COUPLE was a great read, but this second book in the trilogy is outta sight. The depth of her characters--even the bad girl--is amazing. It kept me spellbound. Looking forward to the third book, THE PERFECT MURDERER. |
| Pat Forbess ([email protected]) |
| Cornered by Brandon Massey |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Fantastic! Loved the moral issues and how they were resolved. |
| Benita G. |
| Ravens by George Dawes Green |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
The premise is that 2 grifters passing through Georgia stop at a convenience store where a mega million lottery ticket was sold. They devise a plan to hold the family who won the ticket hostage and collect half of the value of the ticket. At times you laugh, at times you shake your head in disbelief, at times you find yourself terrified. The writing is easy and fantastic. The book is great. |
| Ann |
| Back to Wando Passo by David Payne |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Former rock star's troubled marriage parallels love triangle of ancestors during Civil War. Love, race, low country, plantation life, black magic, mystery & rock 'n roll ! Loved it! |
| Ann |
| South of Broad by Pat Conroy |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Disappointing. Tried to cover too much: suicide, hurricanes, AIDS, Catholic priests, to name a few. |
| Cynde Suite |
| The Last Ember by Daniel Levin |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Reviewed in last month's Bookreporter, I am finding THE LAST EMBER to be a thrilling read by a debut author. There is just something wonderful about blending archaeology, religion, history and the hunt for truth in a moving thriller that is escapist literature at it's best. Young lawyer, who once studied and got into some trouble on an archaeological dig, must use his knowledge of history and archaelogy to discover the meaning of the hidden code in the stones, the perfectly preserved body of a young roman princess and pages the of a priceless ancient manuscript have to do with a labyrinth beneath the Colosseum, the tunnels beneath Jerusalem and a search for a 2,000 year old artifact. |
| Julie H. |
| Evermore by Alyson Noel |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Ever since a car accident killed Ever's family, she can see auras around people and hear way too many of their thoughts. She moves from Oregon to California to live with her aunt and starts a new highschool. Her first and only friends are a couple of other fringe kids. Ever fits right in as she covers herself in hoodies and her ipod earphones to dull the incessant noise in her head. Of course one day, a handsome and mysterious new student, Damen, arrives at school. He sits next to Ever in class and she notices the noise in her head subsides. Damen is obviously hiding some secrets of his own. I can understand the wide variety of views on this story, it comes off as very Twilight-y at times. But, I liked the story well enough to continue the series. Here's hoping there will be a little less TWILIGHT and a little more Highlander in the next installment. |
| L. Hann |
| Buffalo Gal by Laura Pedersen |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Great ready. Really funny. If you are a Buffalonian this is a must read. |
| Sharon Elliott-Fox |
| The Story of Edgar Sawtelle by David Wroblewski |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
I probably rate this low because it depressed me through the entire read. My husband is reading it and says we're probably going to disagree (he isn't very far into the book.) |
| Jean M |
| Rules of Deception by Christopher Reich |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Very exciting page-turner. This is the first of the series about Jonathon Ransom, a doctor with Doctors Without Borders and his wife who is a spy. I am going to read the rest of the series. |
| Lisa |
| Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafon |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
So many friends and customers raved about this book I felt I had to read it. I got as far as page 130 and gave up. While beautifully written, it seemed to meander and drag on. Whenever I put it down, I felt no sense of urgency to pick it back up. |
| Gloria |
| Phenomenon by Sylvia Browne |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is a very good book if you are interested in psychic subjects, she explains many interesting things in this book on a variety of info, for instance she talks about what it is like on the other side of life. Well worth checking out. |
| Marjorie L. |
| The Deep Blue Sea For Beginners by Luanne Rice |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Once again Luanne Rice delves deeply into personalities as her characters deepest emotions are revealed. This book will test all of your emotions. |
| Marjorie L. |
| The Geometry of Sisters by Luanne Rice |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Luanne Rice has always given her readers beautiful stories but her ability to create depth in her characters has increased two fold. |
| Marjorie L. |
| The Letters by Luanna Rice and Joseph Monninger |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
These two marvelous authors have created one of the most sensitive stories I have read to date. Consisting entirely of letters, you will want to read this one a second time to be sure you do not miss a single thought. |
| Rita Wright |
| The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie by Alan Bradley |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
An intriguing mystery with a most engaging heroine, an eleven year old, self-taught chemist. Flavia DeLuce lives with her father and two sisters in post World War II Britain. Flavia uses her detecting skills to solve two murders, save her father, and to torture her sister. Lots of fun to read. |
| Arthur |
| The Mercedes Coffin by Faye Kellerman |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
A wandering, slow-paced and predictable police detective novel. Many irrelevant encounter are added at different points that truly obscure the theme of this somewhat pedestrian tale. |
| Enid |
| The Likeness by Tana French |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is one of the most fabulous psychological thrillers I have ever read. Cassie, a detective, assumes the role of a murdered girl who strangely enough is her double, to find the killer. She becomes emotionally connected to her and her housemates. She finds going undercover an easy transition and almost loses herself in the process. |
| Ed Hahn ([email protected]) |
| Barbie and Ruth by Robin Gerber |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I was surprised at how interesting and well-written this book about Ruth Handler, the founder of Mattel Toy Company and the creator of the Barbie doll was. Having read and reviewed the disappointing, TOY MONSTER, I was afraid this was going to be the polar opposite, nothing more than an adoring eulogy to an exceptional woman. It is far more than that and far more even-handed than is usual in these types of biographies. Plus the writing is first-rate. It reads like a novel and as the friend who gave me his copy said, "I couldn't put it down." Personally, I read it while traveling in one day. The book covers her entire life, warts and all, and uses her relationship to Barbie, the ubiquitous fashion doll, as a way of showing what drove Ruth Handler and what, in some ways, defined her. As the leader of Mattel, she put in motion actions that totally changed the toy business, forever. As a woman she broke down walls so that others wouldn't have to. The book's sub-title is a little mis-leading in that the book is not about Barbie but about Ruth Handler. Other than that, it is a fascinating story and one I can recommend to anyone interested in the struggles of women for equality in the business world, in the toy business generally, in the development of the world's largest selling toy: Barbie, and in the very human story of a driven successful, failed and eventually redeemed, almost bigger than life person, Ruth Handler. |
| Kate |
| Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Anne Barrows |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Outstanding! I read many books and this has been the best that I have read in some time. It took me in and wrapped me up. I would have loved to have met these charaters. |
| Cindy |
| The Whole World Over by Julia Glass |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Wonderful interwoven stories of multiple characters prior to Sept. 11 New York City disaster when the impact on all of them is fascinating. Interesting if you're a mom, a career woman, or one interested in food as two key characters are a restaurant owner and a personal chef to a Santa Fe governor. |
| Julie H. |
| And then Everything Unraveled by Jennifer Sturman |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
Delia's mother disappears on a trip to Antartica, resulting in Delia's move to NYC to stay with her aunt. Delia doesn't think her mom is really dead, so the mystery follows there. I didn't find the main character Delia very engaging, but the author's eye for other details and supporting characters was good. |
| Renee |
| Lucky You by Carl Hiaasen |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Change-of-pace-read. You can always count on cynical Hiaasen to make you laugh and scratch your head all at the same time. A goofy, riduculous collection of events, nuts and non-heros. Fit the bill. So glad I dont inhabit his world! |
| Enid |
| Jemma Hartman, Camper Extrordinaire by Brenda Ferber |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This book is meant for young girls and is a delight. It is the story of a young girl off to sleepaway camp for the first time. It is a great jumping off point to discuss all those issues facing a child going away for the first time. It is also a wonderful choice for a mother/daughter book group. |
| Ed Hahn ([email protected]) |
| Sharpe's Regiment by Bernard Cornwell |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Another great book in the Richard Sharpe series. The story, which takes place mostly in England, has Sharpe uncovering a scheme to "crimp" (auction off) trained soldiers instead of sending them as replacements to Sharpe's regiment in Spain. There are the usual ups and downs as Sharpe faces political forces he little understands and has little patience for. He, of course, triumphs in the end and wins the fair maiden in the bargain. The epilogue describes the battle of Nivelle as British troops move into France for the first time. The description of the fighting, as always, is outstanding. All in all a very satisfying story, which was so exciting, I finished it in two days. |
| Pattie Berryhill ([email protected]) |
| A Reliable Wife by Robert Goolrick |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
1907, Wisconsin, a lonely wealthy man advertises for a reliable wife. Catherine travels on a train from Chicago to a very different life. |
| Ed Hahn ([email protected]) |
| The Foreign Correspondent by Alan Furst |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I am a fan of Alan Furst's spy stories set in Europe in the late 1930s and up through 1945. This was not one of his better efforts. The story involves an Italian emigre' journalist who, while working for the Reuters News Bureau, also publishes an anti-fascist newspaper that is clandestinely distributed in Mussolini led Italy. He and his co-conspirators are constantly harassed by the Italian OVRA, secret police. He uses his connection with Reuters to pursue other anti-fascist activities that also involve the love of his life, Claudia, who is married to a German Industrialist. Since I was traveling, I had to read in fits and spurts which may have dampened the suspense usually so evident in Furst's work. I never became bored but did not experience the usual tension I feel reading his books. The ending was also somewhat unsatisfying. It smacked of, "It's about time to end this story." Over-all I would say it's a very readable story but if you've never read Furst choose one of his other books to start. |
| Chicago reader of ARC |
| Homer and Langley by E. L. Doctorow |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This fascinating account of two recluse brothers, one blind and one damaged by mustard gas in WWI, comments on isolation both imposed by outside events and those self imposed. |
| Linda |
| The Justice Game by Randy Singer |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This was a wonderfully crafted story of suspense/mystery. The only thing you know is that the fans got to vote for the outcome. Otherwise, Randy kept you swinging from one episode to another on a major trial regarding gun violence and who was responsible for the death of an ITeam investigator. The writing was seamless, keeping you turning page after page. I will admit to a very surprising ending--not how I voted. |
| Joline |
| The Given Day by Denis Lehane |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Wonderfully engaging story! Great characters. This book is hard to put down. This is one of his best books. |
| Cindy |
| Even Money by Dick Francis and Felix Francis |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This latest book takes the Dick Francis mysteries back to their high standards since his son joined him as a co-author. Great sympathetic, regular guy main character who cleverly outwits multiple bad guys. |
| Anita Nowak |
| The Way the Crow Flies by Ann-Marie MacDonald |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I thought this book was wonderful. It was very long over 800 pages, but it was worth every page. It was a story about a Canadian family whose dad is in the Air Force. It takes place during the year 1962 and there is a multitude of storylines. The book involves history and a mystery about a missing little girl. It takes over 20 years and almost all of the 800 pages to resolve what has actually happened to this 9 year old child, along with other secrets that really keep your interst. This was the first book I have read by Ms. Macdonald and I intend to read one of her former books. Hopefully I will like it as much. I recommend this one very highly. Enjoy. |
| Sandy |
| Loving Frank by Nancy Horan |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A book about Frank Lloyd Wright and two of the women in his life. There is Frank the architect and Frank the man who at times seem like two different people. He had true vision when it came to designing but most of the rest of his life was a mess especially his relationships with the women in his life. |
| Janet Stewart |
| Vanished by Joseph Finder |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A page turner! |
| Sue, Saratoga |
| The Air We Breathe by Andrea Barrett |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Takes place in a sanitarium for T.B. patients in the Adirondacks at the beginning of the war. Great characterizations, great plot. Loved another book of hers - VOYAGE OF THE NARWHAL. |
| Christi King |
| Starvation Lake by Bryan Gruley |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
| Gus Carpenter, a disgraced journalist in Detroit, returns to Starvation Lake, his small hometown in Michigan's UP. As the assistant editor of the local paper, he gets involved in solving the mystery of his youth hockey team's coach death. A great start to what, I hope, is a new series. |
