April 2, 2010 - April 15, 2010
Last contest period's winners each received a copy of CAUGHT by Harlan Coben, THE MAPPING OF LOVE AND DEATH: A Maisie Dobbs Novel by Jacqueline Winspear and SHATTERED by Karen Robards.
| Radio Reviewer |
| Keys To Destiny by Craig Dressler |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I found this book intriguing. Each chapter has a nugget of encouragement, truth, or thought to chew on. The book is formatted by a 'key' principle represented through the tribes of Israel, and the meaning of their names. |
| Linda Bentzen |
| Fireworks Over Toccoa by Jeffrey Stepakoff |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Set in the present and in 1942 - 1945 during WWII, this love story will make you cry. Fireworks play a particular part in the story and are how our lovers meet. The heroine tells the story to her grand daughter and an employee at a local museum. I enjoyed the book very much. |
| Julie H. |
| The Spellmans Strike Again by Lisa Lutz |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Picking up on a thread of story from her third Spellman book, Lutz has Isabel Spellman preparing to take over the reins of the family detective agency from her parents. However, nothing is that easy in this family and odd disturbances are taking place within their home/workplace while Izzy figures out how to take down their nemesis, another PI named Harkey. Rae, always clever, comes pretty close to crossing the line in this story and is on a new crusade to free innocent prisoners. David is happily dating Henry Stone's former girlfriend, Maggie. The parental units are enjoying Lost Wednesdays and one wonders if Connor, boyfriend #12 can make it to husband #1 for Izzy. If this is truly the finale, I think the Spellmans are going to make it. Summer is coming, take the Spellmans to the beach or cabin, you won't be sorry. |
| Judy O. ([email protected]) |
| The Weed That Strings the Hangman's Bag by Alan Bradley |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Eleven year old Flavia De Luce lives in England, and she has an uncanny knack of solving crimes. She also has an extensive knowledge of chemistry; her specialty is making poisons. A man is murdered while performing a puppet show in a local church. Flavia solves the crime; then informs the police of the outcome. I found this to be a very interesting read, but I also found myself skimming in places because I got tired of some of the minute details. This is a sequel to THE SWEETNESS AT THE BOTTOM OF THE PIE. |
| Carol Clark |
| The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Our group found this book interesting, expecially we got information about gothis novels. We learned just what makes a book a gothic novel and the history of that type of book |
| Lou |
| Alone in a Crowd by Georgia Bockoven |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Being a musician, myself, with a country singer-songwriter daughter in Nashville, I was eager to read this book about a famous country star. I had a hard time getting into it and, finally, gave it my "100 pg test". I make myself read 100 pgs before I decide to give it up for good. I'm now on p 121 and still considering it :) This popular singer was in a bad accident which necessitated facial changing plastic surgery. He finds the he enjoys being incognito and is "running away from home" to sort of find who he really is and what he really wants. Right now, it appears that he's about to fall in love with a teen-aged motel maid. |
| Susan J. |
| Orange is the New Black by Piper Kerman |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I wanted to read this book, subtitled My Year in a Women's Prison, because I was interested in the subject and don't plan on ever learning about it firsthand. I didn't expect it to be well written and I though it would possibly get boring. After all, how much can you say about day after day of the same old routine? I was wrong on both counts. Piper Kerman starts off by explaining what she did to end up in prison: transporting drug money. Instead of whining about how it wasn't really her fault and how she was duped, she admitted that it was both a stupid and a criminal act that she committed. (I hate whining unless, of course, I am the one doing it, and then it is always entirely justified.) Several years after the act, she was charged and pleaded guilty with a plea agreement. Another several years went by before she actually was sent to prison, time that she spent in limbo waiting for her prison time so that she could finish it and truly begin life again. Piper was sent to a facility in Danbury, Connecticut, an easier place to serve time than the hard core prisons. Nevertheless, there were entirely new rules to learn and a complete new culture. She describes some of her fellow inmates with both insight and compassion, and surprised herself by how much she grew to like some of the women. She also recognized that as a blond-haired, blue-eyed white girl with supportive and relatively wealthy family and friends, and had a lot of advantages that others didn't. Many of her fellow inmates came from areas where the economy was almost entirely dependent on criminal activity and had inadequate legal support. Along these lines, she also discussed without being too preachy the shortcomings of the penal system. These women who had for the most part been convicted of nonviolent crimes were given almost nothing in the way of rehabilitation, education, or help to learn to re-enter society. Warehousing these women is both expensive and ineffectual, and there has to be a better way. As an example, one re-entry program about housing did not help the women learn how to find housing once they were released but did discuss the pros and cons of aluminum siding. This book is not a humorous book in the traditional sense but it is written with humor and compassion. Considering that the setting is a prison, there is surprisingly little profanity other than occasional use of the f-word, although there are certainly some colorful people whose practices and beliefs are a bubble off normal. I appreciated the style of writing. In describing a time when some of the normal amenities were unavailable, Ms. Kerman writes "two hundred women, no phones, no washing machines, no hair dryers - it was like Lord of the Flies on estrogen. I sure as hell wasn't going to be Piggy." The book was entertaining and entertaining and, in my opinion, a very good read. |
| Debbie |
| The Husbands and Wives Club by Laurie Abraham |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Subtitled A Year in the Life of a Couples Therapy Group. Abraham is embedded in a therapy group and chronicles the 5 couples through their therapy. A fairly easy read, until she writes about the different types of therapy and the differing opinions of psychologists, psychiatrists and therapists. |
| Debbie W |
| House Rules by Jodi Picoult |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Jacob Hunt is a teenage boy with Asperger's syndrome. He has difficulty with social contact and his mother hires a grad student named Jess to tutor him. She is found dead and Jacob is arrested and accused of her murder. |
| Deborah |
| Hush by Kate White |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
If you want a book that will keep you flipping the pages for a few hours, Hush is a readable thriller. A single mother, going through a bad divorce, spends a night with a doctor who ends up murdered. Her attempts to cover her own involvement in the case are clumsy at times, but she's a sympathetic character and you'll want to know how it all ends. There was enough suspense to keep me hooked until the end, but I found myself wanting to shake the woman for making so many foolish mistakes. A thriller in the old "had she but known" school, this is a good beach read. |
| Deborah |
| Her Mother's Hope by Francine Rivers |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This sweeping saga covers two generations of a Swiss-German family which emigrates to America. Beginning just prior to WWI, the story covers the life of two women, a mother and daughter, who are swept up by world events. The mother works her way from poverty to owning her own boardinghouse in Canada, but marraige to an older German man forces her to lose her achievements and her life becomes harsh and disappointing. She is cold and mean to her daughter Hildemara, driving her to achieve. Hildemara becomes a nurse with great difficulty, always looking for approval from her distant mother. While this book portrays the realistic challenges facing women in those years, I was disappointed in the mother, who worked so hard only to become bitter and difficult. I would recommend the book, but not without a caution that it is fairly depressing. |
| Carol Clark |
| A Reliable Wife by Robert Goolrick |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This was a page-turner for our group. The discusssion was even better thanks to the Reading Group Guide for this book. We learned to much about this read that we would have missed. It provided aan expeciall great discussion and read. |
| Donna P. |
| The Blue Orchard by Jackson Taylor |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Don't miss this unique family memoir by very talented writer. Based on his grandmother's life, you will not be able to put it down. Jeannette Walls "The Glass Castle" & "Half Broke Horses" fans will especially enjoy. |
| Fran |
| Magyk (Septimus Heap Book 1) by Angie Sage |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This is the first book in the Septimus Heap series.... a young adult series. Very cute.... reminds me of Harry Potter but simpler. I enjoyed reading it and will be looking to read the second in the series. |
| Tanya |
| Bad Things Happen by Harry Dolan |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is a good murder mystery with lots of twists and turns to keep the reader interested. Highly recommend. |
| Louise |
| The Perfect Murder by Brenda Novak |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
The Perfect Murder was the PERFECT conclusion to the "Perfect series". I had the dilemma of not wanting to put it down and wanting to put it down so I could savor it longer. I really didn't want it to end. Jane Burke was featured in one of the other Last Stand books and returns to conquer the demons left from her husband tried to murder her. Working at TLS, she was the only one in the office when a distraught woman came in to report that both of her sisters were missing. While investigating a possible kidnapping, Jane becomes involved in related crimes, pertaining to a former cop who believes himself to be infallible. If you like romantic suspense, be sure and pick this one up! |
| Kathy Vallee |
| Expose' by Hannah Dennison |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This story was a little hard to get into and you could figure out who did what before the end, I will have to say that the author was able to make the people very average sounding so that was nice |
| Susan J. |
| One Thousand White Women by Jim Fergus |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
The idea for this book is based on a real incident in U. S. history: at an 1854 peace conference with officials from the army, a Cheyenne chief requested the gift of one thousand white women for his warriors. Although the women were never given, this book is written as though they were. The women came as volunteers from untenable situations, including protagonist May Dodd, who was locked up in an insane assylum for promiscuous behavior, the result of falling in love with a man beneath her social status. The story is written as journal entries and letters from May, aka Mrs. Little Wolf. She acts as intrepid leader for her group of women, eventually becoming Cheyenne-like but treading on the customs and taboos of her new tribe. Their supposed purpose was to assimilate the "heathen Indians" into white culture. Of course, as whites claimed more and more of the tribes' land as their God-given right and the government reneged on its promises, war was inevitable. Of course, that part, sadly, is not fiction. While many people have loved this book, I was less enamored. Some of the situations and characters were too improbable and I didn't think there was enough substance to the story or the characters. Words and phrases in Scots and Southern dialect were spelled phonetically in italics, which got annoying quickly. Some of it seemed like stereotyping. For the most part, it was an interesting read, just not one that appealed to me as much as I thought it might from the original premise. |
| Genie |
| The Fourth Bear by Jasper Fforde |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
As the title suggests, this is Fforde's take on the tale of the three bears. Jack Spratt, DCI of the Nursery Crime Division of the Reading Police Department, must once again confront his nemesis, the Gingerbreadman, a notorious killer The sadistic and super powerful Gingerbreadman, has escaped from St. Cerebellum's secure hospital for the criminally insane and is once again leaving a trail of victims. Unfortunately, Spratt has been suspended, pending psychological evaluation, because of his mishandling of the Red Riding Hood case. Although he begins hunting down the Gingerbreadman on his own, he soon realizes he will need the help of his investigation team. There is a lot of work to be done. First they must discover the link between a missing reporter nicknamed Goldilocks, exploding extreme-cucumber-growers, a theme park, the Quang Tech Corporation, illegal porridge dealers and the attempted murders of two of the three bears. Then Jack must figure out the best way to defeat the Gingerbreadman without losing his own life. |
| Jud Hanson |
| Devil's Bones by Jefferson Bass |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
3rd in the series, this entry finds Dr. Brockton getting back to his routine after the loss of his new love and being falsely accused of her murder. He gets called to investigate a mysterious death, finds a crematorium that is just stacking up bodies instead of cremating them and then finds out the man he helped put in prison has escaped, probably bent on revenge. Excellent book and a quick read. |
| Sandra F. |
| It's Been a Good Life by Isaac Asimov |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I have loved Isaac Asimov's books since I first picked up the Foundation series. This story of his thoughts and comments on life and writing is one of the best books I have ever read. If you love Asimov and science fiction you must read this book. |
| Genie |
| Kitty Raises Hell by Carrie Vaughn |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
"Kitty Raises Hell" picks up where "Kitty and the Dead Man's Hand" left off. Kitty and Ben returned from Las Vegas thinking they had left the worst of the problems encountered behind. Breathing a sigh of relief and thinking they returned to Denver safe and sound, they soon discover their Vegas troubles followed them home. The feline lycanthropes involved in the death cult are out for revenge. They plan to make Kitty pay by taking out members of her pack one by one and, eventually, Kitty herself. With her pack on the line, Kitty takes charge. She takes matters in hand and begins an investigation to figure out what she's up against. The first question is what kind of being is the mysterious, invisible, malicious entity who smells of brimstone and is encased in fire? What will it take to give her the advantage to win the battle against this creature. As the story continues, Kitty makes new allies among the cast of a ghost hunting reality TV show who are filming an episode on location in Denver. To their surprise, they get the proof of the supernatural that they've been hoping for. Out of nowhere, Kitty also gets an offer of aid from a mysterious and powerful vampire who calls himself Roman. He asks for a very high price in exchange of his help and so Kitty turns him down. Instead Kitty turns to her own listeners to ask for their expertise to obtain the information that is desperately needed for the survival of her pack. This is one of the best books in the series. A page turner, I couldn't wait to know what was going to happen next. |
| Kristie |
| Rachel's Garden by Marta Perry |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Good addition to the series. Characters are complex and realistic. |
| Sharron |
| The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo by Steig Larsson |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
It's a very SLOW start and you really can't get into the very disturbing but intriguing mystery until you reach page 250 or 300. Then thankfully, you can't put it down. Stick with it. |
| Debi |
| Lake of Dead Languages by Carol Goodman |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
In this YA novel, it seems that history is repeating itself when a young teacher returns to the boarding school of her youth. Events that were recorded in the teacher's old diary are recurring in an eerie fashion. Who has the diary? Were the deaths of her two best friends murders or suicides? ..... |
| Debi |
| The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
In this seemingly far-fetched YA sci-fi, young people are chosen from each of 12 regions to go to the capitol and fight to the death. Full of suspense and action, it shows human compassion and loyalty. It is intense, but I couldn't put it down! |
| Jo |
| A Rule Against Murder by Louise Penny |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
The 4th book in Penny's fantastic Inspector Gamache/Three Pines mystery series. Be sure to read them in order, though, starting with Still Life. |
| Genie |
| Death of a Maid by M.C. Beaton |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Beaton's 22nd Hamish Macbeth mystery begins as the Scottish constable stumbles over the body of a housecleaner and town gossip, Mrs. Mavis Gillespie. Bludgeoned to death with her own pail, the the list of possible suspects is lengthily. Seems most everyone in the Highlands village of Lochdubh has a reason to dislike the woman. Although her clients disliked her, all of them insist that she was an efficient maid. Macbeth made note during his interviews of thick layers of dust in their homes, and decides to look more carefully into her business relationships. He soon discovers that Mrs. Gillespie was a skilled blackmailer. He ignores his jealous senior colleague's efforts to thwart this investigation, and continues probing into the situation. To add a little more stress to Macbeth's life, his reporter ex-girlfriend arrives on the scene with a (fellow journalist) new beau. An ongoing sub-plot running through the series is Macbeth's struggle to fight against promotion. He knows if he is promoted life as he knows it, will be gone. The station house would be shut down and he would be forced to leave Lochdubh for the city of Strathbane. |
| Joshua Patrick |
| Three Cups of Tea by Greg Mortenson and David Oliver Relin |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This book is one of the most inspirational books I've read. It is the story of a very giving, loving man who puts his life on the line to help give impoverished children in Pakistan and Afghanistan access to education. Greg Mortenson is a modern day hero. |
| Joshua Patrick |
| The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This book is one of the greatest autobiographies I've ever read. It follows the life of Dr. Randy Pausch, who was a well-known professor. He has since passed, but this book leaves a story and inspiration for all. It is a MUST read! |
| Genie |
| Kitty and the Dead Man's Hand by Carrie Vaughn |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Although I've read a number of negative reviews about this book, I found "Kitty & the Dead Man's Hand," to be an enjoyable read. Kitty is given the chance to broadcast her show, The Midnight Hour, live, on television from a studio in Las Vegas. She jumps at the chance for two reasons. First it gives her an opportunity to promote her show in a new market. Second, it makes it possible for her to escape her mother's grip on her wedding plans. And so Kitty & Ben head out to Las Vegas. Plans become more complicated when they discover a gun show is being held in the ballroom of their hotel with more than a few Cormac-like bounty hunters in attendance. Although Kitty seems to attract life threatening situations in every book, this one seems filled with more trouble than usual. This time trouble comes in the form of were tigers who belong to an ancient cult led by an equally ancient vampire and a very strange magician who comes to their rescue more than once. There are enough loose ends left to lead the way into the next book. |
| Genie |
| The Big Over Easy by Jasper Fforde |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
"Humpty Dumpty had a great fall.",but was this fall an accident, or was it murder? Jack Spratt and his new partner, Mary Mary, of the Nursery Crime Division are called upon the scene to investigate. As it turns out, Humpty had a roving eye. His business practices were often questionable. In spite of these transgressions, most everyone seemed to like him. Jack and Mary continue a tedious investigation and begin to make progress in spite of the tale's antagonist, Detective Inspector Chimes. They eventually discover a number of likely suspects. Overall, the book is entertaining however its not of the same caliber as the author's Thursday Next series. |
| Marjorie Clark ([email protected]) |
| Saving CeeCee Honeycut by Beth Hoffman |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Just started this book (page 46) and so far it already rates 3 stares. |
| Jud Hanson |
| Order in Chaos by Jack Whyte |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I can't say enough good things about this book, the conclusion of a trilogy based on the Knights Templars. When King Phillip IV and Pope Clement V order the arrest of all Templars and the seizing of all properties and assets, Sir William Sinclair must lead the escape to Scotland. The Templars who are caught confess under torture to hideous crimes and are put to death. The ones who escape must rebuild and plan for the future if their Order is to survive this purge. Their future could lie in a fabled land called Merica. |
| Fran |
| A quick bite by Lyndsay Sands |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Vampire Chick lit!!! What a fun book, great characters, a bit of suspense and lots of romance. Perfect way to spend a rainy evening. Dr. Gregory Hewitt finds himself alone in a parking garage with a woman and suddenly, surprisingly voluntarily gets into her trunk. He was selected as the "birthday" gift for the woman's daughter. Gregory soon learns that things are not as they appear when he meets Lissianna, a young woman who changes his world. I loved Lyndsay Sands theory on the formation of vampires! Unique and original start to a series in a day and age where vampire books are a dime a dozen. . This was book one in the Argeneau Vampire series. Will definitely read book 2 in the near future! |
| Stella |
| Light on Snow by Anita Shreve |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Thought provoking, wonderful story about a family that goes on after a tragic accident. I'm reminded to get back to looking for this fabulous author again having read some of her other books. |
| Chris |
| The Surrendered by Chang Rae-Lee |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
During the Korean war, June loses her entire family in one tragedy after another, leaving the young girl to fend for herself. She meets Hector, an American, and both end up at an orphanage; he a worker, she an inhabitant hoping to get adopted by the loving couple running it. Rae-Lee begins in present day with a dying June and leads the reader on a journey of twists and turns that will leave you unable to put down the book. |
| Sarah |
| A Reliable Wife by Robert Goolrick |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
I heard positive buzz about this book a couple months ago and it's been on my list. I just moved to a new county and lost my library system, so before trying out the new one I bought this book to hold me over. I hated it. The only reason I'm giving it two stars is because the twist of the wife/son relationship was clever. Don't read below if you don't want any spoilers... What I don't get is how anyone could find these characters likeable. Also, why did Catherine form any connection with Ralph? He didn't treat her as anything more than the prostitute she'd always been. I suppose it's a plus that the author didn't suspect how bad the plot was and try to embellish it with twists and turns which would just have taken me longer to get to the conclusion that it was a bad book. |
| S Larson |
| You Suck by Christopher Moore |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is the second book in the soon to be trilogy of Moore's world of vampires. The series started with Blood Sucking Fiends and continues with Bite Me which hits stores on Tuesday March 23rd. All three stories follow the trials and tribulations of Jody and Tommy both newly turned vampires. Jody was first and then decided to turn her minion (Tommy) as well, just so she wouldn't be alone, and oh ya she kinda likes the guy or now undead being. Written in classic Moore style, with more than a few laughs with an enjoyably outlandish cast of characters. A lot of Moore's characters cross over into different books where reading order doesn't really matter, but this series will be best enjoyed by being read in sequential order. |
| S Larson |
| The Angel Experiment: Maximum Ride by James Patterson |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
When I started this book, I immediately thought it was one of the YA titles which doesn't expand beyond the confines of the young adult genre. For the first 100 or so pages I wasn't even emotionally attached to the characters, quite frankly I could have cared less what happened to them. As I progressed through the book and even now after I have finished it, I am not certain whether or not I would like to continue on with the series. I guess that in and of itself should answer my question. The book did get better as it went along, as with all Patterson stories it was a quick read so it wasn't overly painful to stick with the story even in the early portion. If I were to rate it as it should be rated as a YA novel, then it was a very good story. Unfortunately since we have been introduced to YA titles such as Harry Potter, we have come to expect generational unity in current YA titles. Fair or unfair, you be the judge. Based on overall merit: 2 1/2 Stars. |
| Ivy Pittman ([email protected]) |
| Shadow Tag by Louise Erdrich |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
The scenario is unique. Two diaries - one real, one fake. The fake one left out on purpose for the other to find, pulling the reader in to wonder when the plot will backfire. However, the Native American historical references take away from the true motivations behind Gil and Irene's discontent with each other. |
| Linda M. Johnson ([email protected]) |
| Game Change by John Heilemann & Mark Halperin |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Behind the scenes of the 2008 Presidential election. A must read for news junkies. |
| Cynthia Plaza-Harney |
| Undress me in the Temple of Heaven by Susan Jane Gilman |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I injoy this memoir very much. It takes you back to 1986 to People's Republic of China. At that time it was just allowing people to visit and it was a real journey. That same year I too went across the other side, but did not go though what the auther did. I went to England, France and Germany and I never hunger, got sick or was ever under constant government surveillance. This is a book you can not put down and want to turn the pages as quck as possible. |
| FOH |
| Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close by Jonathan Safran Foer |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
After reading such compelling reviews on Amazon.com, I purchased this book expecting something great. While the subject matter is extremely sad (a little boy experiences the devastating effects of losing his father in the 9/11 attack) and the main character is adorable, I guess I'm in the minority in saying that it was not the "best book" I've ever read. Yes, the author's writing style had a poetic quality, but I felt it was too disjointed and all over the place to fully appreciate. I can see where others would rave about it... but it just wasn't my cuppa tea. That being said, I read the entire book in an afternoon.... held my interest but was not what I expected. I was horrified at the picture at the back of the book depicting the person jumping from the towers.... as a New Yorker, that just hit too close to home for me. |
| Linda Bentzen |
| The Dark Horse by Craig Johnson |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
The Dark Horse by Craig Johnson Johnson's "The Dark Horse" is another page turner in the Walt Longmire series. The story takes place in NE Wyoming in the Powder River Country. A local rancher is found dead and the barn full of his wife's horses and the house have all burned. His wife Mary is sitting in the yard with her rifle across her lap crying and confessing that she shot him. Longmire, the sheriff of Absaroka County, goes undercover to the small town of Absalom. There he meets several characters who all have reason to hate the rancher. Did Mary really do it? This is a page turner and had me guessing until very near the end. |
| Jane K |
| Remarkable Creatures by Tracy Chevalier |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Haunting story of the friendship of 2 women both of whom share a passion for scouring the beach for fossils. Taking place in the early 1800's, the novel is based on the true stories of Mary Anning and Elizabeth Philpot |
| T. Thomas |
| Never in a Hurry: Essays on People and Places by by Naomi Shihab Nye |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Delightful, interesting essays about the people and places in her life. |
| Fran |
| Home Repair by Liz Rosenberg |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Interesting enough to finish reading this quick novel, but entirely forgettable. |
| Jean M |
| The Mapping of Love and Death by Jacqueline Winspear |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Maisie Dobbs series continues. This book set in the 1930s still dealing with WWI. Very good plot keeps the pages turning. |
| Jean M |
| Many Lives, Mary Masters by Brian Weiss, PhD |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Fascinating book. The author used hypnosis in treating patient having panic attacks. She revealed past lives indicating reincarnation. |
| Debbie ([email protected]) |
| Eat, Drink, and Be from Mississippi by Nanci Kincaid |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
This is a reading for a book club. The story starts in Mississippi, but the action quickly moves to California. Many of the Southern traits are glimpsed in the two main characters: Truely and Courtney Noonan. Courtney, the older sister escapes to California to study art, but instead finds a rich man to marry. Truely, the younger brother, follows his sister to California, and makes a fortune. Both Truely and Courtney struggle through relationships, and in the end, find a young black young to mentor and adopt. The story is bland with weak characters and very little memorable moments. The moral seems to be that money can buy or cure any problem. |
| Ana Marie |
| Ruby by Lauraine Snelling |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Imagine being a young woman in charge of a younger sister and traveling from NY to the Dakotas in the late 1800's, thankfully by train and on a wagon train to meet with the father you have not seen in years ( the younger sister doesn't even remember him). You've gotten a letter asking you to come because your father is very ill and he wants you to claim your inheritance. You arrive after a long exhausting trip, get off the train in the middle of nowhere only to find that no one is there to greet you. You walk in pitch black darkness to a light a distance away only to get the door slammed in your face when you mention your father's name. What in the world can this be all about? There are two books that follow this one about two other sisters; Opal and Pearl. |
| Cindy H |
| House Rules by Jodi Picoult |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
I love Picoult's books but this one didn't seem to have the depth her others have. The ending didn't feel complete - not wrapped up on all aspects of the story. The story was not as believable as her other stories. I believe that in real life someone would of just asked Jacob to tell them what happend way before everything got out of control. |
| Jill |
| March by Geraldine Brooks |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
If you wanted to know where the father of the "Little Women (by Lousia May Alcott), was all those years, you can find out here. |
| Dawnymae |
| Ruth by Lois T Henderson |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Very good portrayal of the life of Ruth and how she and Naomi went from being protected under a man's name, to being widowed, lost, & in need of help from Naomi's Yahweh. Follows the bible story, but we get to see these women as real people. |
| Sam Foster |
| The Girl in Hyacinth Blue by Vreeland |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Bet this is the only book you can read forwards OR backwards! My book club loved it and enticed us to learn more about Vermeer |
| Sue |
| The Shanghai Girls by Lisa See |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This book has few laughs. One disturbing experience after the other. These authors like to pile one hardship after another even after a turning point in the book |
| Pat W. ([email protected]) |
| STILL MIDNIGHT by Denise Mina |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Scottish mystery writing at its best. Mina is smart and funny and knows how to keep you thinking about the book when you're away from it. This is a new detective - a woman angry and grieving and caught up in the politics and ambition of her job. She's investigating the botched kidnapping of an Indian shopkeeper. She alternates point of view between the detectives and the criminals and takes you there. I highly recommend this book. |
| Marsha |
| Wench by Dolen Perkins-Valdez |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Before the Civil War, there was a resort in Ohio where white slave owners could take their black enslaved mistresses for a vacation retreat. For the first time some of them are acqainted with the idea of running away with help from the underground railroad. However, some are bonded with their children left behind in the slave quarters. Friendship among the slaves develop over the several years and ideas are exchanged. This is based on a true resort located near Xenia, Ohio and stories are part of the local oral history. |
| Ed Hahn ([email protected]) |
| 24 Hours by Greg Iles |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I resisted reading this book until someone mooched it. I ended up finishing it in a couple days. It is one exciting story. Even though I knew the basics of the plot and had heard of the movie, I still got caught up in the suspense of it all. It is definitely a thriller! The basic plot, a kidnapping with special circumstances, is brilliant. The characters are believable and, though, heroic in cases, not stereotypical. The main villain is also well drawn. The ending stretches credibility a little but left me satisfied. I'm glad I gave it a shot. I was well rewarded. |
| Ed Hahn ([email protected]) |
| The Tin Roof Blowdown by James Lee Burke |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I'm not at all sure I really got what Hurricane Katrina did to New Orleans until I read this book. Sometimes fiction, at least Burke's fiction, is far more evocative than all the news reports, specials and other stuff in the media. That said, this is the story of how series hero, Dave Robicheaux, is dragged into the chaos following the disaster and is swallowed up in the aftermath of investigating a number of killings. The plot is typical of the series in that it bounces from a first person narrative by Robicheaux to a description of what's happening to the other major characters. It's done in such a way, though, that the reader never loses track of what's going on. As always, the characters, both major and minor, are not only real but also fascinating in some way or other. The main villain is a truly frightening psychotic who terrorizes Robicheaux and his family just by being in the neighborhood. The story unfolds in sometimes surprising ways, leaving the reader guessing as to what will happen next. The ending is satisfying without being too neat. The epilogue also serves as an epitaph for the New Orleans we may never see again. Well done Mr. Burke, another winner! |
| Ed Hahn ([email protected]) |
| McNally's Risk by Lawrence Sanders |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
I never imagined myself reading a Lawrence Sanders novel. I was leaving on a short trip and this was one of the thinnest books on my shelf so I grabbed it on my way out the door. The protagonist, Archy McNally, a Palm Beach P.I., is an interesting character with the requisite number of skills and foibles. In this case he runs into an accomplished con-man and his excruciatingly beautiful daughter. Most of the other characters are fairly well drawn and interesting. A few are pure caricatures. The plot has few surprises or twists but also a few holes that go by quickly because the writing is so free and easy. The ending is satisfactory and all the loose ends get tied up. Sanders is breaking no new ground here and I suspect the entire McNally series is derivative of the many P.I. series that preceded it. Nevertheless, this story was a satisfying read, especially since I was expecting so little. |
| Marjorie Clark ([email protected]) |
| Dirty Little Secrets by C.J. Omololu |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is a great YA and Adult book. A story of a teenager and her hoarding mother.Makes me want to go home and clean. I'm loving every dirty minute of it. |
| Helkat |
| Look Again by Lisa Scottoline |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A n adoptive parent's worst fear - finding out that the child you thought was yours for life - may not be - a fast pace novel - hard to put down! |
| Bonnie |
| The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Maybe 6 stars...I first read this about 50 years ago and it holds up beautifully even after a half dozen readings. One of the saddest, most beautiful novels ever written. |
| T. Thomas |
| The Spellmans Strike Again by by Lisa Lutz |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
The Spellman books are a hoot. I always laugh out loud and thoroughly enjoy them. |
| donna petrilla |
| Night Kills by John Lutz |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Not bad for mystery paperback. Kept me interested the whole time. Will definitely read more John Lutz books. |
| donna petrilla |
| The Scarpetta Factor by Patricia Cornwell |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
Love the Kay Scarpetta series but this one left a lot to be desired. Too long & complicated w/lousy ending. Save your money, others in series much better. |
| Donna P. |
| Hell Gate by Linda Fairstein |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Latest in Alexandra Cooper series deals w/human trafficing and political corruption. Have read all in the series. This is not my favorite but Linda Fairstein writing so good I didn't mind. Like the history of New York and supporting characters as well. |
| Bonnie |
| Blindness by Jose Saramago |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I listened to the audiobook which made a 12 hour drive pass in an instant. Nobel Prize winner Saramago's novel is epic and intensely interesting. If you're a fan of Cormac McCarthy's "The Road" or Golding's "Lord of the Flies", this may be for you. But anyone can get so much out of this treatise on us as a society...and be entertained at the same time. |
| Judy O. ([email protected]) |
| My Wife's Affair by Nancy Woodruff |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Watch for this book, which will be out April 15. Georgie and Peter move to London with their 3 small boys. Georgie is a frustrated mother, because she longs to be back on the stage as she was in her former life as an actor. She gets the chance to play the part of Dora Jordan, a famous actress of the 1700s and early 1800s. Soon Georgie is consumed by this role and by the persona of Dora. She must leave her home in London and play the part in other cities in England, leaving her husband and children behind. Of course the family becomes very fractured and they all become desperate for their family as they used to know it. I felt so sorry for her 3 small boys, as they did not understand what was happening. And, as the title suggests, Georgie did have an affair, which has disastrous effects. This is just a compelling read. |
| MJB |
| Major Pettigrew's Last Stand by Helen Simonson |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
The story takes place in a small English village and the main character is Major Ernest Pettigrew. His wife has passed away and his adult son Roger lives in London. Major Pettigrew becomes friends with Jasmina Ali, the owner of the local grocery store and the story takes off from there. Family and friends disapprove of their friendship because Mrs. Ali is from Pakistan. It is told with humour, and charm and is one not to miss. A refreshing read. |
| Linda |
| The Women by Boyle |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Interesting story of the loves of Frank Lloyd Wright. Not sure I liked the sequence - going from the last to the first of his mistresses. But - really got a good feel for FLW's tyrannical ways. |
| Kellie ([email protected]) |
| Playmates by Robert B. Parker |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
#16 of the Spensers Series-It seems like more of a coincidence that it's March Madness and I'm reading a book about basketball. Spenser is highered by the President of Taft University (I figured out it's really Boston College) to see if there is any truth to the accusation of point shaving. So, as usual, Spenser gets on the job and out does himself. What he doesn't expect is his emotional involvement in the case. This gets him every time. He relies on his friend Hawk and his girlfriend Susan to help him get thru it with the least bit of trouble. It's been a couple years since I've read a Spenser book. Didn't realize how much I missed him. And how sad I am that there will never be a new one written. Rest in peace Robert B. Parker. |
| MarilynD |
| The Book Thief by Markus Zusak |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Touted as a young adult novel and won many awards for children's literature, I wonder how children/young adults can appreciate the depth of Zusak's amazing poetic word pictures throughout this novel set in Germany during the rise of Hitler and the ensuing WWII. I was enthralled! |
| Linda H. ([email protected]) |
| Killer Summer by Ridley Pearson |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Bottles of wine supposedly given by Thomas Jefferson to John Adams are up for auction. Being rare, these are insured for several million dollars and Sheriff Walt Fleming is to ensure their safety until the auction. The courier who was supposed to deliver the wine was found murdered but the case containing the wine was saved by Walt. However, he believes that another hit will be coming from the gang that tried to steal the wine from the courier. This book was hard to put down. |
| Terri |
| From Away by David Carkeet |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
I really didn't like this book at first, and it took me three tries to get into it. The main character, Dennis Braintree, is extremely unlikeable, and very annoying. He is a model train fanatic, writing for a model train magazine, and the novel begins with him wrecking his car in an obscure little town. It's never clear whether he was drunk or on drugs, but he certainly acted like it. I persevered, though, and it got much better. Denny finds a hotel, and that night, a drunk woman barges into his room and makes herself cozy in the Jacuzzi, sending Denny out for condoms. When he returns, she is gone, and he finds himself accused of her murder. While trying to escape, he is mistaken for one of the town's residents who has been gone for three years, and he ends up taking on that person's life while he tries to figure out whodunnit. Once I got past the first few chapters, the story became compelling, and I finished it quickly. Since this was an advance copy, I don't know what changes will be made in the final analysis, but if you get a chance to read it, it's a fun read. |
| Linda H. ([email protected]) |
| Killer Weekend by Ridley Pearson |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Sheriff Walt Fleming is set to protect a potential presidential candidate who is coming to Sun Valley as a speaker at a high-level business conference. As a rookie policeman, Walt saved Elizabeth Shaler from a killer. Now, he will be a part of her entourage to protect her from a potential threat. But with the FBI and bodyguards assigned to some of the moguls attending the conference, it seems like everyone is protecting his turf and not letting the local sheriff in. In addition, there has been a murder of the wife of one of the local billionaires. Although the initial investigation hints at an animal attack, Walt isn't so sure. This book will keep you turning pages until the last one. |
| Betty CRyder ([email protected]) |
| The Elves of Cintra by Terry Brooks |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This series follows the aftermath of the destruction of the world of humans by their own follies. A world of magic, Elves, Demons fight to control the new world. Each book is a close look at the central characters of the struggle to win. Terry Brooks writes in a way that is easy to see & get involved with the stories. You root for the good guys & wait with baited breathe for the next installment. This is one series that I find myself rereading. |
| Eileen - wise owl |
| Mudbound by Hillary Jordan |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Sharecropping, racism, murder and despair. Difficult and bleak lives told through narration by the five major players, Not an up read. But an educational and sobering one. Haunting and important. |
| Booklover2 |
| The Same Sweet Girls by Cassandra King |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A great book spanning the lifetime of six girls beginning with their college days. Their lives, their laughter and their losses will resonate with me for a long time after reading this book. |
| EC |
| Shanghai Girls by Lisa See |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is very engaging and entertaining book. It also relates some historical information. The reader will love the characters. |
| Susan J. |
| So Much for That by Lionel Shriver |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
What an incredibly depressing story! Shepherd Knacker and his wife, Glynis, have always lived frugally, splurging only on vacations to research where they will spend their Afterlife, life after retirement. As it became more a reality for Shep, it became more a pipe dream, an unrealistic indulgence for Glynis. Finally after amassing three-quarters of a million dollars by selling his business and becoming an employee, Shep is ready to move to remote Pemba and his wife and son are welcome to go with him or not, their choice. In remarkably bad timing, Glynis announces she has cancer, has been seeing doctors and keeping the secret from Shep, and needs his health insurance. Health insurance doesn't begin to cover the costs, eroding his careful planning. Glynis even blames Shep for the cancer, carrying home asbestos fibers when he was a handyman. Their best friends, Jackson and Carol, have a smart, surly, manipulative daughter with a horrible disease, familial dysautonomia, who refuses to be a cheerful poster child. Their younger daughter is healthy but demands unnecessary medicine and creates symptoms in a quest for some of the attention her sister gets, filling her emptiness with too much food. Most of the characters are abrasive and unlikeable. Shep takes too much responsibility for everyone around him, expecting nothing in return, and his martyrdom comes across as lack of backbone and character, even though his has both in his own way. He is, in Jackson's terms, one of the Mugs, the givers, instead of one of the Moochers, the takers, and a chump. While he may be fluid, like the water in the fountains he enjoys creating, he seems more wimpy than fluid. "Shep's plight clearly illustrated that there was no point to anything and there was no relationship between virtue and reward and there never had been." Glynis, even before her illness, seems hateful and self-absorbed, afraid to practice her art but denigrating her friend who creates what she considers inferior pieces. In another analogy to her art, she is as hard and shiny as the metal pieces she used to create. Carol is living through her daughter's illness. Jackson rants about the Mugs and the Mooches, about the poor state of health insurance, but doesn't get around to writing the book he imagines, only coming up with numerous titles. He feels, with his wife's help, that he is not really good enough for her and comes up with a disastrous plan to make himself better in her eyes. I started this book with an expectation of three stars, pretty standard unless it proved to be better or worse than I anticipated. It quickly moved to two or maybe two and a half stars. I felt sorry for some of the characters but I didn't like them or care about this as much as I wanted. The book occasionally bogged down with too much explanation or ranting or too much stilted dialogue. Jackson "reserved special contempt for accountants and lawyers, both of whom slyly implied that they were on your side, when this bloated, parasitic caste of interlocutors effectively constituted a penumbral extension of the State, their extortionate fees amounting to more taxes." It doesn't take much of that for me to really not enjoy a book. So, I really did not like this book until the last 50 or so pages, out of about 425. Those pages caused me to be glad I had slogged through so much depression and frustration, and brought the book back to a solid 3-star rating. |
| Reva Wamsley ([email protected]) |
| Boneman's Daughter by Ted Dekker |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
You need a strong stomach to read this book. It starts out in Iraq, where our main character, a Navy Commander, is captured & forces to watch the bones of children being broken, one by one. He escapes & is sent back home where is wife & daughter have rejected him, saying he abandoned them long ago. A serial killer, nicknamed the bone man, who also kills young girls & kills them by braking their bones, kidnapped his daughter. Ryan, our hero, is accused of being the bone man. He escapes once more so he can try to rescue his daughter from this man. |
| Fran |
| The Middle Place by Kelly Corrigan |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Kelly Corrigan's autobiographical story of her own journey through breast cancer treatment while her father went through treatment for late stage bladder cancer. An uplifting story, despite the premise. I'd recommend this book to others as an easy, quick read. |
| Booklover2 |
| Saving Cee Cee Honeycutt by Beth Hoffman |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This was one of the best books that I have read in a long time. It was entertaining yet thought provoking at the same time. There were a lot of comments that will be written in my great quotes book. I really enjoyed this! |
| Booklover2 |
| The Little Book by Selden Edwards |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This was a great book. I loved the time travel embedded in the historical fiction. The setting for this book flip-flopped back and forth between the 1960-90's and the turn of the century in Austria. It was entertaining and full of twists and turns. A great read. |
| Judy Hendrix ([email protected]) |
| Divine Justice by David Baldacci |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Again Oliver Stone and the Camel Club finds trouble. this fast action page turner kept me entertained thru the entire book. |
| judy hendrix ([email protected]) |
| Testimony of an Irish Slave Girl by KateMcCafferty |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
The story of a young Irish girl who was kidnapped and taken to the West Indies, The story chronicles her life as a slave until her death.We do not know hard, but looking into a life so different from ours opens the eyes and makes you thankful. |
| Tanya |
| The language of Sand by Ellen Block |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Haunted by the death of her husband and young son, Abigail seeks refuge from her loss by taking the position as caretaker of a lighthouse on a secluded island and soon discovers the lighthouse may be haunted as she is by the memories of her family. |
| Margie B. |
| The 13th Hour by Richard Doetsch |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Very disappointing. An interesting premise, though far-fetched (going back in time an hour at a time to prevent one's spouse from being killed), but the writing is sophomoric. overblown and tedious. Points for effort, but you can skip this one. |
| Olga |
| Victim Six by Gregg Olsen |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is not your typical serial killer book. Parts of it are a bit difficult to read, but the writing is so well done that the author knows just when to leave off before it all gets too much. A brilliant insight into how a serial killer might think. Very cleverly crafted and a really spell binding plot with a sub plot involving one of the investigators. I would recommend this for anyone that loves thrillers. |
| Antoinette from Calgary |
| Dead Cold by Louise Penny |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Second in series of mysteries with Inspector Gamache in Three Pines --- a small town in Eastern Townships of Quebec. I love the characters in her books and the twists and turns. She writes a cozy mystery in the style of Agatha Christie. If that is your cup of tea, read them-they are so enjoyable. |
| Eileen Quinn Knight, Ph.D. |
| The World in Half by Cristina Henriquez |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
First of all, I live in Chicago and recently spoke at a conference in Panama. This book understood both cities as well as the characters that were depicted. It a lovely well written novel that touches the heart of everyone. There is not one character that is not lovable and true to the scenario! |
| Rosemary Sobczak ([email protected]) |
| Fantasy in Death by J.D. Robb |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Always love seeing what Eve Dallas in up to! |
| shapirit |
| A Dangerous Friend by Ward Just |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
It was ok. It's about how Americans thought that helping the Vietnamese on how to have a life --- the American way --- would win them over. CF Iraq. |
| Pam |
| Sarah's Key by Tatiana DeRosenay |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
As an American writer living in France seeks the truth about the fate of a young Jewish girl who lived in Paris in WWII, the writer discovers much about herself and her marriage. |
| Pam |
| Girl in a Blue Dress by Gaynor Arnold |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is a novelized version of Charles Dickens' wife's life after being "cast away." Which much is fiction, there is much here about the dynamics of the Dickens' household. |
| Coral Harrison |
| The Lacuna by Barbara Kingsolver |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
It was hard to read and understand. I have liked most of her books. |
| Pam |
| The Piano Teacher by Janice Y. K. Lee |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is set in the turmoil of Asia prior to WWII, so the reader gets a bit of history along with a story of a young woman caught up in a different culture with few options. The book is very readable and leaves the reading aching for this woman. |
| Patricia B. Potts ([email protected]) |
| The Queen's Lover by Bennett, Vanora |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I find the book a tad tedious at times, but an interesting historical period. It's main character is Catherine de Valois, daughter of French King Charles VI. Catherine had a wretched childhood, married in her teens to Henry V, widowed in 2 years & became Queen Mother of England as her child was Henry VI, King of England. The plots and deceptions in this book are intriguing. |
| Jean M |
| First Family by David Baldacci |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A very good thrilling page-turner with the formerly secret service agents Sean King and Michelle Maxwell. The 2 agents become even more closely involved. |
| Antoinette from Calgary |
| The Host by Stephanie Meyer |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Finally read this book and once I got into it,could not put it down. I'll say this for Stephanie, she knows how to tell a good story. |
| Antoinette from Calgary |
| The Tea Rose by Jennifer Donnelly |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Loved this book. Had been meaning to read it for a while but as it is a BIG book,needed the right time. Story takes place in late 1800's.Starts off in London at the time of Jack the Ripper then heads off to New York. It's got suspense,love and a story of 2 people working hard to achieve their dreams. Loved the way the author used real incidents in her story-Jack the Ripper, being in Paris at the time of the dawn of Impressionism. I highly recommend this book and am dying to read the sequel, THE WINTER ROSE. |
| Angie Lindell |
| Pixie Dust by Henry Melton |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Very intelligent and well-plotted sci-fi novel dealing with a lot of hard to understand physics. Despite it being so smart, Henry Melton manages to get you past that and really get your teeth into a great story. Coming out in April. |
| Antoinette from Calgary |
| Bloodletting and Miraculous Cures by Vincent Lam |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Book of short stories written by a doctor-Most of stories involve getting into medical school and events that take place in medical profession. The stories were well written and I thoroughly got into them. I have recommended this book to so many people since I read it. Even if you are not in medical profession, I think you would enjoy feeling like an outsider looking in on the doctors in this book. |
| Coral Harrison |
| Think Twice by Lisa Scottoline |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I gave this 5 stars as it is easy to read and understand and is a very good mystery. It is another book about twins Bennie Rosato who is a lawyer and the good twin and Alice Connelly, who is the bad twin. It is a fast-paced book and hard to lay down. |
| Darcy |
| The Postmistress by Sarah Blake |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
The first novel for Ms. Blake contains some very beautifully written passages, and the overall story is compelling; but the writing is somewhat repetitive and rambling at times. I think a good editor might have corralled and focused her thinking a little more. I will try Blake again. |
| Louise |
| Clean Cut by Lynda La Plante |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Continuing on in the Anna Travis series, this one had rather a complicated and convoluted plot. DCI Langton had to go over it all quite a few times with his crew, and it was necessary for the readers, as well. Langton goes after murder accomplices & is almost murdered himself, in the process. After the long and extremely painful struggle to survive, he wants vengeance and wants it bad! Anna feels that he is going after the bad guys for the wrong reasons. |
| Gail White ([email protected]) |
| Impact by Douglas Preston |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
What a roller coaster suspense ride. A very interesting subject and plot of a meteor hitting the earth in Maine and going out the other side in Cambodia. Super good writer. Holds you captive till the end. |
| shannon moon leonetti |
| East of the Sun by Julia Gregson |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A young single woman travels to Bombay in 1928 --- to get away from her suffocating life in England. She pays her way by escorting two young women and an out of control young man...these relationships pave the way for her life there. |
| Asha |
| Winter Garden by Kristin Hannah |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A superb read. I was so caught up in the lives of each character I finished it in three days. A must read. |
| Asha |
| The School of Essential Ingredients by Erica Bauermeister |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A great read with interesting characters. |
| Janey |
| Handle With Care by Jodi Picoult |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I love Jodi Picoult books, and this one doesn't disappoint, although it was more sad to me then some of her other books, but I love reading stories with all characters points of view. I learned about OI, a condition I had heard about, but didn't know much of. |
| marion Miller ([email protected]) |
| Still Alice by Genova |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Although a little frightening, this is an insightful book that should be read. The author is intellectually informed about her subject and tells an intriguing story. |
| Marsha |
| The Surrendered by Chang-Rae Lee |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This brilliant novel will capture your interest as it explores the virtues of sacrifice and heroism. The childhood traumas that shape lives cannot be dismissed. It is a story of identity, belonging, memory and mercy and how love and war can echo through a lifetime. |
| Jean |
| Major Pettigrew's Last Stand by Helen Simonson |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This book had received rave reviews and yet I have found it lacking. In my opinion, I found the book to drag and I never felt connected to the characters. I was hoping this was going to be a hidden sleeper like THE HELP or SAVING CEE CEE HONEYCUTT which were both books I loved and didn't want to end. However, for me MAJOR PETTIGREW'S LAST STAND was disappointing. |
| Julie |
| The Girl with the Dragon Tatoo by Stieg Larsson |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This book starts out a little slowly then picks up steam as you acquaint yourself with all the family members and other players in this murder mystery. I couldn't put it down. |
| Susan Johnson ([email protected]) |
| Under the Dome by Stephen King |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Stephen King of yesteryear is BACK..... |
| Paula Linchesky |
| Burnt Cookies: A Quest for Closure by Arny Alberts |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
BURNT COOKIES is one of the most intriguing, gut-wrenching stories about sexual abuse I have ever read. It is remarkable what Arny Alberts endured during the years he was abused by his football coach. A true story --- don't miss it. |
| Karen |
| Wicked by Gregory MacGuire |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Interesting read. Wanted to read it before we saw the musical. |
| Renee |
| U is for Undertow by sue Grafton |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Impressed that after all these books, Kinsey Millhone is still true to herself, yet growing. I miss her in-between reads and enjoy the reunions! |
| Renee |
| Mountain of Silence by Kyriacos C. Markides |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A wonderful peak into the ancient and contemporary marvels of the monasteries of Mount Athos, and the island of Cyrprus. A look into a world that seems so foreign and yet uniquely relevant. |
| carol |
| Treasure of the Golden Cheetah by Suzanne Arruda |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Another good Jade Del Cameron mystery. The author continues to deliver a good mystery as well as teaching about Kenya after WWI. This time Jade is hired to help with a safari to Kilimanjaro. The group is from Hollywood and are trouble before leaving Nairobi. Author continues to bring African mysticism into the story in a charming way. |
| Sue, Saratoga |
| Hotek on the corner of bitter & Sweet by Jamie Ford |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
A Chinese boy and a Japanese girl in Seattle become friends, before her family is sent to a Japanese internment camp. He later marries another but thinks of her again when he is widowed, decades later. |
| Teresa ([email protected]) |
| Burn by Ted Dekker and Erin Healy |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
This is another book combining a Christian slate with supernatural aspect. Premise was more interesting than the actual book. |
| Gail |
| The Informant by Kurt Eichenwald |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I could not put this book down. I never would have thought that a story about price fixing in the food additive industry would be so thrilling That it is a true makes it even more fascinating. It is a big book but well worth reading. |
| Rosalie Leon |
| The Help by Kathryn Stockett |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I couldn't put this book down. The story is about living in Jackson, Mississippi in the early '60s. When white women hired black women as their housekeepers.A writer wants to interview the "Maids" and put it into a book, - extremely dangerous, in those times. . This book should be a movie! My book club "Myakka Chicklitz" is reading it next. |
| Kathleen Cutsail |
| The Vanishing Point by Mary Sharratt |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I am totally loving this book, will finish it tonight. Highly, highly recommended. Looking forward to her new book, DAUGHTERS OF THE WITCHING HILL. I am seldom so moved and involved with a story as I am with this. It is almost physical. A wonderful tale! |
| Vanessa McDaniel ([email protected]) |
| The Vanishing Act of Esme Lennox by Maggie O'Farrell |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Although this is a quick read, it is one of the best books I have read in a long time. The main character is a young woman who learns that she has a long lost great aunt in an asylum that will soon be closing down. She feels compelled to help but is not sure she wants to get involved. The surprising thing is that Esme Lennox turns out to be quite a character who may or may not be nuts. The only thing that is certain is that she will not go quietly into the night. |
| suzannefromtexas |
| Cutting for Stone by Abraham Verghese |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I love a book that exposes me to a world other than own, and this one does. The setting at the beginning is Ethiopia in a mission hospital. This story is told by one of the twins born out of wedlock to an Indian nun and a British surgeon. The boys are orphaned at birth by the death of their mother and the desertion of their father. |
| Mary |
| Sarah's Key by Tatiana de Rosnay |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A WWII book about a 10-year-old Jewish girl, France during the roundups, and present day. Wonderful book I couldn't put down. |
| CAROL |
| The First Annual Grand Prairie Rabbit Festival by Ken Wheaton |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I'm not Catholic so I wasn't offended by the outrageous characters --- but I wonder if priests are really like this!! Lighthearted read. |
| Vanessa McDaniel |
| The Lady and the Unicorn by Tracy Chevalier |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I wasn't sure I'd like THE LADY AND THE UNICORN, but the characters grew on me. This is the story of a talented young painter who attempts to bed every young lady that comes into his path. The idea for a tapestry he is helping to create comes from the seductive story he uses to lure his victims. Although he shows little remorse, he can be a gentleman when he chooses. I think this story is worth reading. |
| Judy |
| The Paris Enigma by Pablo DiSantis |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Old fashioned mystery! Takes place in the late 1800s before "detecting" was a science! |
| Peg A Schoenfelder |
| Too Much Money by Dominick Dunne |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
A lightly fictionalized recounting of a writer's experiences with New York Society. |
| Sue, Saratoga |
| The Diving Pool by Yoko Ogawa |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
I read her novel THE PROFESSOR AND THE HOUSEKEEPER and loved it, but this book of short stories is dark and depressing. Not one to recommend. |
| Teresa ([email protected]) |
| House Rules by Jodi Picoult |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Loved it. Really enjoyed this book about autism and Asperger's. Picoult really does a great job giving the reader an inside view to the realities of how families would live in these situations. It made me think about how we view people who don't respond in the socially accepted norm, but what about the parents and siblings? |
| Teresa ([email protected]) |
| Half Broke Horses by Jeannette Walls |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Interesting story of Jeannette Walls's maternal grandmother. She was born in 1901 in the southwest. It was a very harsh time and environment. Makes you glad to be born later. |
| Kalle LaJaune |
| The Hot Kid by Leonard Elmore |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This is not the best book by the author. Seems a bit disjointed. |
| Kalle LaJaune |
| The Last Surgeon by Michael Palmer |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is a fast-paced, action-packed thriller with characters who are just a little out of the ordinary. |
| Kalle LaJaune |
| The Recipe Club by Nancy Garfinkel |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A very insightful book that is a series of letters between teenage best friends, who live somewhat dysfunctional lives and share a love of cooking. Interesting mix of ingredients. |
| Lynn Clifford |
| The Elegance of the Hedgehog by Muriel Barbery |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
I felt that there was something lost in the translation from French to English. I did not feel enough of a distinction in character between the words written in the voice of the concierge vs. those written in the voice of the young girl. They were kindred souls but also should have unique voices. |
| ck |
| Conspirata by Robert Harris |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Cicero and Tiro continue their story that began with IMPERIUM. Greed, political intrigue, immorality, murder... This is a superb historical novel that focuses on the men and women who manipulated the politics and policies in Rome 2,000 years ago. Caesar, Pompey, Cato and others are brought back from obscurity under the pen of a superb storyteller. I hope I won't wait too long for the final book in the trilogy. |
| Karen Terry ([email protected]) |
| Alex Cross's Trial by James Patterson and Richard Dilallo |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
It was a great read. It is about Ben Corbett, who is sent by President Teddy Roosevelt to investigate lynchings in his hometown of Eudora, Mississippi. He is undercover and he meets with Abraham Cross, who is a relative of Alex Cross through his Nana Mama, to help find proof of the lynchings. It is fast paced, very haunting, dark, and it makes you a little angry. Ben Corbett's life changes in ways he never imagined. He also learns about respect and betrayal from those he thought he knew. |
| Sean from OHIO |
| Bite Me: A Love Story by Christopher Moore |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
It boggles my mind when I don't hear more about Christopher Moore, no pun intended. He is clearly the funniest man in literature. Here he delivers his third book in his vampire series which is comedic yet still more realistic than anything that Stephanie Meyer ever wrote. This book is somewhat centered on Abby Normal, who was introduced in the last book, YOU SUCK: A Love Story. If you like her, you'll love this book. Her dialogue, to herself, others, and her online minions is over the top hilarious. I loved it. To me, this would make a great animated series on Comedy Central or more appropriately HBO or Showtime. Its so good and I can't wait for another installment. A++ |
| Rita |
| Brava Valentine by Adriana Trigiani |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This book was the first I'd read by this author. I was pleasantly surprised. The heroine is a custom shoemaker and the story revolves around her family, her job, and her love life. It was not a standard romance and the shoe-making details and family feuds were more interesting than the romance, which was sort of blah. Still, I was interested to see what would happen next. |
| Judy |
| The Sisterhood of Spies: The Women of the OSS by Elizabeth McIntosh |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
The story of the OSS during WWII and the women who worked for the OSS, some of whom were spies, analysts, decoders. |
| Coral Harrison |
| Undone by Karin Slaughter |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A good mystery about a serial killer near Atlanta, Georgia. It's well written and if you like mysteries, you will like this. |
| Coral Harrison |
| Victim Six by Gregg Olsen |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A story of a serial killer in Washington State. The author tells a lot about the surroundings and areas. I am from that state so it made it more interesting for me. He writes very well and easy to read, although it is gory at times. |
| Julie H. |
| Paper Towns by John Green |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Quentin Jacobsen, in the odd layering of high school groups, is a wannabe band geek. Having grown up next door to Margo Roth Spiegelman, one of the girls who found cool much more easily, Q. seems completely prepared to take off with her on a nighttime adventure when she shows up at his window one night. After their night of shenanigans, Margo disappears, leaving clues that Q. is determined to figure out with the help of his friends. I found the parental response to her disappearance a little unnerving, but I suppose Green has to create parents like that in order for the story to have more inner growth themes for the main characters. I found myself thinking back to AN ABUNDANCE OF KATHERINES quite often, and I think I appreciate it more now that I've read PAPER TOWNS. |
| Judy O. ([email protected]) |
| Wench by Dolen Perkins-Valdez |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Set in the 1850s, this is an intimate look at slavery. We first meet 4 women slaves --- Lizzie, Sweet, Mawu, and Reenie. Their Masters have taken them from Tennessee and Louisiana to a resort in Ohio. The women's purpose was to take care of all their master's needs while they are there. This story is mainly told in Lizzie's voice, but the other slave women have a big part in the story too. What an awful thing slavery was!! We actually live the lives of these slaves and become outraged at the injustice of it all. I couldn't put the book down. |
| Gail White ([email protected]) |
| Altar of Eden by James Rollins |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Such a fantastic, thrilling suspense! A scientific roller coaster ride about mutated animals and a huge tangled plot that keeps the reader going till the end. This was an all nighter! Could not put this down till I finished and yet did not want it to end. |
| Tanya |
| Olive Kitteridge by Elizabeth Strout |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
3.5 is a better rating for this book. Olive Kitteridge offers profound insights into life....its tragedies and joys. |
| Skip |
| Rough Country by John Sandford |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Another winner from the author of the Prey series. Virgil Flowers investigates a murder in the backwater of a northern Minnesota resort lake and mystery ensues. Take it in. |
| Sharon Elliott-Fox |
| Death on a Family Tree by Patricia Sprinkle |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Boxes of a spinster aunts' belongings yield a mystery that leads to revelations, and intrigues of the past that have dire consequences for the present. |
| Glenn |
| Tanner's Tiger by Lawrence Block |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
One of the early Evan Tanner spy stories, written in the late '60s. Didn't enjoy this quite as much as most of the Scudder PI/Bernie burglar/Keller hitman books written later in Block's career. |
| Sharon Elliott-Fox |
| Unfinished Desires by Gail Godwin |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Good insights into the minds, emotions, losses, loves and jealousies of teenager girls. throw in family history, a Catholic school and very dominant nun and you have a good read. |
| Kathy Vallee |
| The Vampire of Venice Beach by Jennifer Colt |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This looks like it's going to be the last book in this series and if it is, I for one am really going to miss reading them. Jennifer really knows how to bring all the characters to life and the twin PI's Kerry and Terry end up in a real mess this time. Vampires in California who knew? Body switching and kidnapping. Alot of fun and keeps you going till the end |
| Julie H. |
| Receptionist Under Cover by C. J. Carmichael |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Sometimes I think Harlequin's get a short shrift in the book world, but this Super-romance was good story. Travel writer Patrick O'Neil has just discovered he has an 18-year-old son and hires very new detective, Nadine Waverly to help track him down. Yes, there's that romantic spark, but a great story of finding family too. |
| Julie H. |
| The Teaberry Strangler by Laura Childs |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
A back alley crawl for tourists ends badly for the owner of a map shop down the way from Theodosia Browning's Indigo Tea Shop. Naturally, Theo stumbles upon the body of her friend Daria, chasing away a cloaked form. I found this 11th tea shop mystery to be as fresh and carefully plotted as usual. All of our favorite characters, from Haley to Drayton, to Inspector Tidwell and fashionista Delaine, help Theo sort out the neighborhood's latest crime. Theo's former boyfriend, Jory, adds an extra storyline that maybe will be continued in number twelve? I guess we'll see. |
| Gail |
| Shutter Island by Dennis Lehane |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
I read this book after hearing about the movie version and that it had a twist. I like stories with twists and the one in the book I saw from the beginning. The author is a very descriptive writer which is maybe how I guessed the twist. I would have liked the story better if I was surprised at the ending. |
| Judy ([email protected]) |
| The Chalk Circle Man by Fred Vargas |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A mystery that takes place in Paris about what is found inside blue chalk circles, including a few bodies. |
| Vanessa McDaniel |
| The Book Thief by Markus Zusak |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Although I found this book on the teen table at Barnes and Noble, it is far from a kid's book. In fact, I would only recommend this book to a mature teen. This book is an interesting take on the Holocaust. Instead of being told from the Jewish perspective, it is actually taken from the perspective of an honorable German family who does not wish to be involved in the rounding up of the Jews. It is a heartfelt novel that will not be easily set aside when you finish reading it. |
| Kristie |
| The Other Side of Darkness by Melody Carlson |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Excellent read about a woman who joins a religious cult. Characters are very complex, realistic and interesting. Offers a new and fresh perspective. |
| bk |
| Hanna's Daughters by Marianne Fredriksson |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This novel was #1 international bestseller in Europe. It covers 100 years of a Swedish family with the tale of a grandmother, mother, and granddaughter. Each generation had conflicts and secrets. The reader is swept along as the women turn from a backwards farm girl placed in service with a rich family to today's modern woman with ideas of her own. A friend in Germany told me about this author. |
| Susan J. |
| Saving CeeCee Honeycutt by Beth Hoffman |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I am often a fan of Southern literature because it is frequently filled with colorful, eccentric characters, beautiful descriptions, and improbable situations. At its best, it is also infused with humor. SAVING CEECEE HONEYCUTT lives up to the traditions and expectations. Cecelia Rose (CeeCee) lives in 1960's Ohio with her increasingly unstable mother, who was the 1951 Vidalia Onion Queen, and an increasingly absent father. Her mother, transplanted to the North, was never able to thrive there and becomes lost in a world of Goodwill prom dresses and irrational behaviors that humiliate CeeCee. Circumstances lead CeeCee to a great-aunt in Savannah, a woman as dedicated to saving CeeCee as she is to saving the beautiful old houses in her town. Is it possible to commit murder by garden slugs? What is the "black boomerang of karma" going to do next? What happens to the racist white man who attacks blacks in a world too quick to believe a bad black man over three good black women? I found this to be a tender, delightful story with characters I came to love. Well, I didn't love Miz Hobbs, but then, who would? |
| Jud Hanson |
| Sign of the Anasazi by Marc Lieberman |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Interesting novel revolving around the Anasazi, a race of people who occupied portions of the southwest US centuries ago and then disappeared with very little trace evidence. |
| Sandy |
| High Noon by Nora Roberts |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Good story. I usually don't read romance novels, but this had enough suspense in it to keep me interested. |
| Ruth |
| Between the Covers: The Book Babes' Guide to by Margo Hammond & Ellen Heltzel |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
As an avid reader and member of two book clubs, I devoured this book. The list of books I want to read is growing even longer now. |
| Bonnie |
| Cutting for Stone by Abraham Verghese |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
The critics are right. This is a wonderful novel about twins born in Ethiopia during the struggles during and after the time of Haile Selassie. The twins' unusual birth is an integral part of the plot. The author has a great sense of place and it's easy to feel you're right there in the center of the story. I like that this is about a place and a people who've not been written about much in contemporary fiction. |
| Colleen Holt |
| The Elegance of the Hedgehog by Muriel Barbery |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
What a delightful surprise! I (and my bookgroup) LOVED this novel. It's translated from the original French, and takes just a wee bit of effort to get into the rhythm of the prose, but is very well worth it. Renée Michel is a 54-year-old widow who serves as a concierge in a small, exclusive Paris apartment building. She and the fascinating crew of building denizens (including my favorite, 12-year-old Paloma, who is obsessed with dying at the onset, but changes as a result of her friendship with Renée). This book is funny, sharp, wise and very moving. Highly recommended. |
| Debbie ([email protected]) |
| Down River by John Hart |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is another of those page turning novels that forces you to miss your daily life to read. This is the story of Adam Chase, a man expelled from Eden (his home in Salisbury), who returns home like the prodigal son. Like the story of the prodigal son, the father is ready to kill the fatted calf and welcome the son. But Adam battles his demons and evades forgiving his father because his father chose to believe Adam committed murder and because of the death of Adam's mother. The story has many twists and many deaths: Danny, Danny's father, and a few more that are not revealed until later. The story centers on greed, loyalty, love, deception, friendship, and money. I enjoyed this book more than The King of Lies. THE LAST CHILD and DOWN RIVER are both equally enjoyable. In all three books, the father figure is either dead or lacking in emotion, and the mother is always weak or fragile. And in all three, the main character is a male searching for his way home. |
| bk |
| Silence of the Grave by Arnaldur Indridason |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This murder mystery has the charm and cadence of a translated novel. It was originally written in Icelandic. It is the second in a series about Detective Erlendur. It picks up where JAR CITY left off. In this book a corpse of many decades is found in what has become a building boom area outside the city. As he tries to unravel this long buried mystery of the families who lived in the area during WWII, he also reveals something of his own life. This won the CWA Golden Dagger Award. |
| Lori Barnes ([email protected]) |
| Man of my Dreams by Johanna Lindsay |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Had to give this one 5 stars because there were no slow spots for me. I loved the characters and their interactions with each other.Megan had wanted to marry a Duke but could she have fallen in love with a stable boy? Interesting turn of events. Enjoyed it to the end. |
| bk |
| Casa Rossa by Francesca Marciano |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A story about 3 generations of women who live in a remote country villa in southern Italy. CASA ROSSA brings happiness and sadness to all the generations who have to deal with the emotions and mysteries that become their lives. It spans from WWII to the current generation. Secrets and betrayal of each generation shapes the lives of the ones that follow. |
| Kristie |
| Finding Alice by Melody Carlson |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Alice is a college student who develops schizophrenia. Interesting perspective although I disagree with the author's views on medication, somewhat. |
| bk |
| The Crocodile Bird by Ruth Rendell |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A strange girl is brought up isolated in the gatehouse of a magnificent manor house in the English countryside with her only contact being her beautiful, posh but eccentric mother. She was well educated by her mother and can read advanced Latin and French but doesn't know how to use money or survive in the everyday world. The girl suddenly finds herself on her own after a night when her mother orders her to quickly disappear and hide. It's a gothic tale set in today's time. I listened on tape and found it fascinating. |
| bk |
| Mister Pip by Lloyd Jones |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
An interesting story set in the early 1990s when a small New Guinea island is torn between soldiers and rebels. The island parents turn to the only white man on the island to become the new teacher of the children. Strangely, the children become enchanted by GREAT EXPECTATIONS while the mothers are leery of the teachings of the odd man. The tale isn't all happiness. During every revolution the innocents are caught in the middle. I listened on tape and thoroughly enjoyed the narrator and the story. |
| T. Thomas |
| The Roar by Emma Clayton |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
WOW! This is a YA dystopian novel, but it is outstanding. I can't wait for the sequel. |
| Ami Blackwelder ([email protected]) |
| The Dark Light of November by MJ Caraway |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
It was a page-turning thriller I couldn't put down! Check it out at: www.ireadiwrite.com |
| Susan J. |
| Saving CeeCee Honeycutt by Beth Hoffman |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I am often a fan of Southern literature because it is frequently filled with colorful, eccentric characters, beautiful descriptions, and improbable situations. At its best, it is also infused with humor. SAVING CEECEE HONEYCUTT lives up to the traditions and expectations. Cecelia Rose (CeeCee) lives in 1960s Ohio with her increasingly unstable mother, who was the 1951 Vidalia Onion Queen, and an increasingly absent father. Her mother, transplanted to the North, was never able to thrive there and becomes lost in a world of Goodwill prom dresses and irrational behaviors that humiliate CeeCee. Circumstances lead CeeCee to a great-aunt in Savannah, a woman as dedicated to saving CeeCee as she is to saving the beautiful old houses in her town. Is it possible to commit murder by garden slugs? What is the "black boomerang of karma" going to do next? What happens to the racist white man who attacks blacks in a world too quick to believe a bad white man over three good black women? I found this to be a tender, delightful story with characters I came to love. Well, I didn't love Miz Hobbs, but then, who would? |
| Kellie ([email protected]) |
| Falling For You by Jill Mansell |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
After THE ROAD, I totally needed some light reading. This was perfect. I love this author. She uses an interesting technique where she has 3 stories going on simultaneously. They usually connect at some point and most of the people are associated with each other. She has humor, suspense and of course, drama. There were some parts of this book where I thought "OK that would never happen". But, for the most part, I really enjoyed this book. The story takes place in Ashcombe, UK. Maddy meets this guy at a party in the dark, without her glasses. She finds him very attractive but doesn't really know who he is until she sees him that week in the daylight, with her glasses. She's doomed. She really likes him, but knows she can't have him. A childhood friend comes back to town with scars on her face. Love, children, families, relationships all part of the Mansell recipe for a fun read. There hasn't been a Mansell book I didn't like. |
| Debi |
| The Apple Turnover Murder by Joanne Fluke |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Don't read this if you're on a diet! With all the delicious recipes for cookies (and other foods) I found myself getting hungry while Hannah Swensen tried to figure out who murdered her old college beau! |
| kaye |
| Devil's Food Cake by Josi S. Kilpack |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
One of my favorite genres to read is the cozy mystery. Pair that with culinary skills of a middle aged amateur sleuth, add in some quirky characters and perhaps a budding romance and you have a winner in my opinion. DEVIL'S FOOD CAKE is just that! The main character Sadie Hofmiller, a widowed cooking aficionado who just seems to easily channel her inner busybody, sets out to solve a murder mystery in Garrison, Colorado; not exactly what she had in mind for the evening. When Sadie arranged for Tom Mortenson, a former resident, to speak at the library fund raiser dinner regarding his best selling book, everyone expected a nice quiet dinner meeting. Between the prime rib and devil's food cake, no one could foresee that just fixing a microphone would set off a shot gun blast that immediately killed Tom's agent, Mark Ogresky. None of the attendees paid $150.00 a plate to be scared out of their wits! Who could possibly have gone to such trouble rigging the shotgun like that? What was their motive and when did anyone even have the opportunity to set it up? This made Sadie wonder if Mark was the real target or was it a mistake and did someone have it in for Tom? Tom had left Garrison years ago following the suicide of his son and murder of his son's girlfriend. Sadie had to first figure out if anyone from the past still held a grudge. Through a lot of digging and some madcap adventures, Sadie, her son Shawn and a new acquaintance by the name of Eric managed to get themselves in the thick of the action despite the police telling them to just go home. Of course, that didn't stop Sadie! Just when I thought it was a wrap and I had it figured out, a big turnaround happened at warp speed. Whoa, didn't see that twist coming. Good one, Josi! I had to speed read to the end I was so surprised and couldn't wait to see what happened. Sadie Hofmiller and her teenaged son, Shawn, were fun characters to read. It's as if he and his mother had been solving crimes together for a long time, their thoughts meshed well together in figuring out what clues to follow. I also really liked another character that was introduced in this book and that was Eric. He turned out to be much more than I thought he would initially. I hope to see him again in the next book. For fans of culinary cozies, this is definitely one for your wish list. And the recipes? I was drooling just reading the devil's food cake recipe. Devil's Food Cake is the third in this culinary series by Josi Kilpack. For more info on the author and her books you can visit her website or her blog . |
| T. Thomas |
| You Can't Drink All Day If You Don't Start by Celia Rivenbark |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Rivenbark's books are laugh-out-loud funny. I have enjoyed all of them and look forward to the next one. |
| Jud Hanson |
| Seven Cities of Greed by Jean Sheldon |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Light-hearted Indiana Jones-type story revolving around a group of friends who are trying to find the legendary seven cities of gold sought by early Spanish explorers. |
| Sue Yo |
| Hard Road by Barbara D'Amato |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is book is from 2001 but after I read it, i had to read the rest of the Cat Marsala series. It's about having a Frank Baum exhibition is Chicago with amazing details of background information about the city interspersed with a feisty reporter. Cat is unlike the sleazy characters that reporters are sometimes portrayed --- see keep s her word and she is friends with a police captain. I enjoyed the 9 books in the series and would recommend them all. |
| FOH |
| In a Perfect World by Laura Kasischke |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This was a unique little novel that was written in a mesmerizing fashion. Even though the underlying theme of the book was set during a pandemic end of the world flue outbreak, it was so well written that it was compelling to read. I was hooked into the life of Jiselle and her three new step-children in a way that I had not been gripped by a book recently. The apocalyptic theme of the story lent suspense and turmoil to what could have been a run of the mill story. In light of recent H1N1 flue hysteria and the potential for terroristic spread of illnesses in our world, the story line was utterly plausible and scary enough... possible in this day and age. |
| Debi |
| Death of a Valentine by M.C. Beaton |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Hamish McBeth finds himself engaged to his new partner, Josie, who's a nutcase! This is good, easy reading for a rainy day! |
| Julie H. |
| The Weed That Strings the Hangman's Bag by Alan Bradley |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I thoroughly enjoyed Flavia de Luce's second adventure. Puppeteer Rupert Porson, with assistant Nialla, find themselves stuck in Bishop's Lacey with a broken down van. In order to make enough money to fix it, they strike a deal with the vicar to hold their Jack and the Beanstalk play at the church. A terribly accident ensues, but it's up to Inspector Hewitt and, of course, Flavia, to determine if it is something more. Flavia shines in this story. Gallant bike Gladys is a perfect mode of transportation, her sisters tease her often, and Flavia's outlook about the people of her country town are priceless. She mentions at one point that she is the perfect age for being invisible --- too old for a nursemaid and too young to worry about suitors and the niceties that brings. How true. I will follow this "retired" Girl Guide on to many adventures. |
| Kristie |
| Plain Paradise by Beth Wiseman |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Interesting plot. Different from other Amish fiction. Realistic characters. Quick read! |
| Elizabeth ([email protected]) |
| Plain Truth by Jodi Picoult |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
What an excellent book...the way Jodi Picoult dealt with the problem in this story was outstanding. The Amish way of life is a difficult one for those of us who don't live it, but everyone has his/her own beliefs. Jodi Picoult sure did her research. I loved the book and the story and felt sorry for the main character...the ending was one I never would have guessed...the book was a mystery as well as a great story. |
| Louise |
| An Afternoon Walk by Dorothy Eden |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I've been going through boxes and found this. I'm sure I read it 40 yrs ago but didn't remember any part of it. Made me yearn for the "days of innocence". Set in the English countryside, a grieving woman who has just lost an unborn child is being made to think she's unhinged and getting worse every day. Her husband is setting her up, but why? |
| Shyeyes ([email protected]) |
| Sidney Sheldon's Mistress of the Game by Sidney Sheldon and Tilly Bagshawe |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
So good to read another Sidney Sheldon book, the coauthor who finished his manuscript did a fine job of keeping with Mr. Sheldon's writing style. Very complex characters, plenty of plot, and lots of raw emotions. |
| Kristie |
| Plain Jayne by Hillary Manton Lodge |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Nice plot. Different because they focus on two Amish people that become "English". Realistic characters. |
| Crystal |
| The Rubber Band by Rex Stout |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Nero Wolfe and Archie Goodwin are at the top of their game. And Wolfe seems to be almost charmed by a female client who ends up spending the night at the brownstone! |
| Debbie ([email protected]) |
| Arcadia Falls by Carol Goodman |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is a thoroughly moving book about a mother and daughter and the sacrifices of women. As usual, Goodman employs the use of fables or fairy tales to enhance the story. Goodman also utilizes nature and poetry and art. As with other stories, Goodman explores orphans and babies given away at birth, and mistaken identity. In this story, the artist Lily gives away her baby daughter, only to think that she has found her 16 years years in the person of Ivy St Clair. But then Shelley Drake, a teacher, believes that her mother Fleur Sheldon is Lily's daughter. Of course, neither Ivy nor Fleur is Lily's daughter, and the real daughter of Lily is not revealed until the end of the book. But, if you have read Goodman before, you might have decided earlier the rightful heir. A story well told. |
| Sean from OHIO |
| The Stupidest Angel by Christopher Moore |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Christopher Moore does one thing better than anyone, and that's completely saturate the reader within a world. And the world he creates here (or better yet in his previous novels PRACTICAL DEMONKEEPING and LUST LIZARD OF MELANCHOLY COVE) is hilarious. Comedy is the hardest form of entertainment to translate on page because the reader needs to always be on the same page as the author or the jokes will go right on by your head. Here, I was in lock step with Moore. I loved every line on every page. Even the animals are a comedic gold mine. Truly a hilarious masterpiece! A+ |
| Connie Schmucker |
| Whitethorn by Maeve Binchy |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Our club thought this was good. |
| Connie Schmucker ([email protected]) |
| Wild Fire by Nelson DeMille |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
We thought this was excellent. |
| Connie Schmucker |
| Wild Fire by Nelson DeMille |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
We thought this was excellent. |
| Connie Schmucker |
| The Collectors by David Baldacci |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This was just done this month and we each thought it was great |
| Connie Schmucker |
| Smash Cut by Sandra Brown |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This was done by my other club and we all like it very much. |
| Marguerite |
| Wench by Dolen Perkins-Valdez |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Great book about the fine line between slaves and their slave owners. The author keeps you turning the page.... |
| Connie Schmucker |
| The Lady in Blue by Javier Sierra |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is a book club book and it is very good. |
| Eileen Quinn Knight |
| The World in Half by Cristina Henriquez |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
The character development in this novel is so invigorating! These are real people in situations we have all encountered. Living in Chicago, many of the places felt like home. The travel to Panama was also exciting as I went there last Spring but even more than its familiarity is the writing. Ms. Henriquez writes with all of us in mind. She has a great grip on her audience and makes the best of it! |
| Kara |
| Last Words by George Carlin |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I've been a fan of George Carlin since I can remember. Before he died he was in the process of writing this biography, and it was released by his co-author late last year. Even as big a fan as I am, I really never looked past the face value or the performance. Reading this book I feel I've learned a lot about him, and have a growing respect for him and his life. Anyone whose a fan of George or a fan of bios would love this book, it has a colorful approach to a less then perfect upbringing that keeps you interested and really surprised me in many ways. |
| Linda |
| Fire Study by Maria V. Snyder |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Good Fantasy. Just read the other 2 books in this series as well. 1st book: POISON STUDY 2nd book: MAGIC STUDY 3rd book: FIRE STUDY |
| Priscilla |
| I Was Amelia Earhart by Jane Mendelsohn |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
An interesting book --- Amelia Earhart tells what happened to her after she and her navigator disappeared in 1937 and she tells about herself. |
| Carol |
| Animal magnetism by Rita Mae Brown |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Brown has written a combined autobiography and animal story. The reader meets some of the many animals she has raised throughout her life. As always, her easy writing style makes this a pleasure. |
| Rosalie Leon ([email protected]) |
| The Help by Kathryn Stockett |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I couldn't put this book down! Is is written so that the women's voices come through so purely --- what actually happened to them.....It really opened up my eyes.. |
| Marjorie Clark ([email protected]) |
| The 13th Hour by Richard Doetsch |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Good book with a different concept. Enjoying every page of this thriller. |
| Patty Coyle |
| The Brutal Telling by Louise Penny |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Whenever someone asks me for a recommendation, I tell them about Louise Penny. All her books have been wonderful to read. My husband hates to see one come into our house because he knows I am not going to get anything done until I finish it!! |
| Lora |
| The Bricklayer by Noah Boyd |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Great thriller!!! I can't say it better than the experts so I'll let them tell you what they think about the book. THE BRICKLAYER "Terrific pace, surprises galore..Move over Jack Reacher, here comes The Bricklayer." -James Patterson Kay Scarpetta's creator, New York Times bestseller Patricia Cornwell, calls it, "Dazzling," while Lee Child himself raves, "Non-stop action and non-stop authenticity make this a real winner." |
| Jean |
| The Kitchen House by Kathleen Grossham |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is an excellent read. I found that if I read this book at bedtime, I just couldn't put it down. A very well-written debut novel that captures the lives of black slaves in the south. A must read! |
| Catherine ([email protected]) |
| Roses by Leila Meacham |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I really loved this book because it took in so many generations. It was lengthy but it kept my interest the whole way through! I would highly recommend this book! |
| Jean |
| Split Image by Robert B. Parker |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Though this is definitely not one of Parker's best, it was entertaining. Who doesn't enjoy Parker's snappy dialogue and rapid pacing? The book is easy to get into and moves along at a nice pace. I'm just sorry that Robert Parker passed away. I'll definitely miss his books. |
| Judy O. ([email protected]) |
| The Man From Beijing by Henning Mankell |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is a multi-layered thriller that takes place in Sweden and China and covers several generations. Nineteen people are slaughtered in a small hamlet in Sweden, and authorities are baffled. The sleuthing of a Swedish judge seems to be pointing to a suspect, but the police have a different man who has confessed. This was a great read. |
| B. Klaassen |
| The Birth House by Ami McKay |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is a new author for me. I read this book for an upcoming book discussion. At first I thought this was going to be a long read because it wasn't keeping my attention. But I found that by the third chapter, I was having trouble putting the book down and by the last chapter I didn't want the book to end. Most of the women characters were strong and honorable. This was a deep, but fun book to read. |
| Gretchen |
| Dead Until Dark by Charlaine Harris |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Loved it! Kept my interest throughout the book --- very original idea! Can't read to read the next Sookie Stackhouse adventure!! It was my first vampire book and I'm hooked! |
| Tanya |
| The Housekeeper and the Professor by Yoko Ogawa |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
An original story where a woman becomes the housekeeper for a professor of mathematics who after suffering a head injury has an 80 minute short term memory. The bond that forms between the professor, the housekeeper and her son will touch you way after the book ends. |
| Julie |
| The Girl with the Dragon Tatoo by Steig Larsson |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This book starts out a little slow and you really have to pay attention as it is very involved, but it really picks up and is worth the investment in time. I can see why it has been in the best seller list for weeks. |
| Ann A. |
| The Beekeeper's Apprentice by Laurie R. King |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Our book group just read this. It puts a twist on the Sherlock Holmes legned. It's the first book of the Mary Russell series, Mary Russell being a young female character who joins Sherlock Holmes in solving crimes. The mystery lovers in our book group really liked it. |
| EC |
| Very Valentine by Adriana Trigiani |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This was avery enjoyable book containing a cast of characters you will want to continue reading about. Everyone will get a chance because there is a sequel. |
| Louise |
| The Red Dahlia by Lynda La Plante |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Interesting that I abhor the language in it but keep reading & buying, anyway. Must say something for the plot content. THE RED DAHLIA was dubbed that by the killer, himself, as he was determined to keep contacting the media and keep himself in the public limelight. He planned his crime as a copy-cat of the famous Black Dahlia murder years before in LA. Against all odds, a suspect was named midway through the book, and I had to wonder what would fill the rest of the pages. But filled, they were, and with interesting material. |
| Debbie ([email protected]) |
| The Last Child by John Hart |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I have read John Hart before, and enjoyed reading THE KING OF LIES (twice). In both novels, Hart circles the problem, life starts at one pont and then returns to that point. Also, in both, children play an important part in the narrative; and what seems to be the truth is not always the fact. In THE KING OF LIES, there is the old man who walks the neighborhood, and in this book, there is Levi Freemantle. This is a book for a book club reading, and I thought I might not enjoy; but once I started the book, I had trouble stopping my reading. I stayed up late and then completed the book in the morning. The book covers God, relationships between fathers and sons, relationships between police partners, and relationships between boys and mothers. Johnny never relinquished his quest to find his sister and to protect his mother. A very moving story. |
| Marsha |
| A Murderous Procession by Ariana Franklin |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This strange novel is the fourth in a series of the Mistress of the Art of Death. In 1176 King Henry II sends his young daughter to Palermo to wed the King of Sicily. The entourage that accompanies her includes a man who vows to kill the heroine and inflicts problems on the entire group. |
| D. Lohrding |
| Paul Dorion by Poachers Son |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is the author's first book and it is a mystery happening in the wilderness of Maine. Great characters and I'm almost finished yet still am not sure "who dunit"....good suspence!!!! |
| Reva Wamsley ([email protected]) |
| The Edge by Catherine Coulter |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I just love her FBI series and this is one of the best. A touch of mystery, a touch of suspense and a touch of romance. Mac takes a trip to find out why his sister drove her car over a cliff into the sea. He finds a lot more than he ever dreamed he would find. |
| Linda H. ([email protected]) |
| Takedown by Brad Thor |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Scot Harvath is meeting an old friend and mentor, Bob Herrington, in Times Square for drinks and get-together. While there, they watch television in horror as attacks are launched in NYC by suspected terrorists. Snipers are at La Guardia. Bridges into and out of Manhattan have been destroyed and a NYPD helicopter has been shot down. As Scot and Bob discuss who could be behind this, they both agree on al-Qaeda. But why? As they call in favors, they are met with roadblocks. A good book that is hard to put down. |
| Linda H. ([email protected]) |
| The Shimmer by David Morrell |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Strange lights are seen in the desert outside Rostov, Texas but are not seen by everyone. When Dan Page's wife disappears from their home in Santa Fe and is later found in Rostov, Dan is confused. What is in Rostov and why did Tori end up there instead of San Antonio where she said she would be? As Dan travels to Rostov to get Tori, he finds that she is uncommunicative and doesn't understand her obsession with the lights. This book is loosely based on the strange lights seen outside Marfa, Texas. The cause of these lights remains unexplained. |
| Linda H. ([email protected]) |
| Blood Game by Iris Johansen |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
As Eve Duncan and Joe Quinn return home from their former case involving the infamous murderer Henry Kistle, they find a golden goblet in their refrigerator with what looks like dried blood in it. As Joe and the Atlanta PD investigates, more murdered women are found. In addition to being drained of their blood, a goblet is found next to them. Then Joe is visited by a ghostly vision of one of the victims who gives him leading information on the killer and where he is. Does the killer actually believe he is a vampire? A good book. |
| Lou |
| The Day We Met by Barbara Bretton |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Barbara writes great love stories that are easy to read. This one is about divorced mother, Maggy O'Brien, who faces the age-old question, "Is the familiar or the intriguing unfamiliar better?" |
| Ann A. |
| The Book of Mercy by Kathleen Cambor |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Our book group had previously read and loved IN SUNLIGHT, IN A BEAUTIFUL GARDEN by Cambor and we wanted to read her only other book. THE BOOK OF MERCY is compelling. It's a book about love, loss, alchemy and storytelling from different points of view. Much of the early part of the story is set in Pittsburgh beginning in the early part of the century and moving forward. The characters are Edmund Mueller and his children Anne and Paul. Their mother has left the family after struggling with mental illness. Edmund, Anne and Paul choose differing paths in coping with this loss. |
| Elaine Gasaway |
| The Botany of Desire by Michael Pollan |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A fascinating look at the co-evolution of people and plants. Who is manipulating who? |
| F Tessa Bartels |
| The Thanksgiving Day Murder by Lee Harris |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Harris just keeps getting better. I really enjoy this series. Christine Bennett is intelligent and principled. |
| F Tessa Bartels |
| Hullabaloo in the Guava Orchard by Kiran Desai |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Entertaining fable of modern-day India. Sampath, who has never amounted to anything, runs away and climbs the guava tree where he becomes known as the Monkey Baba - an esteemed holy man revered by his village and other pilgrims. |
| F Tessa Bartels |
| The Blueberry Muffin Murder by Joanne Fluke |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
It's been a while since I'd read a Hannah Swensen mystery. They're fun ... and have great cookie recipes. |
| Mike Patt ([email protected]) |
| House Rules by Jodi Picoult |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is one of the best books I have ever read. I love Jodi's writing and her other books, but this is the best by far. I couldn't wait to find out the ending , but also didn't want the book to end! |
| Fran |
| You've GOT to Read this book! by Jack Canfield & Gay Hendricks |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
55 people share the stories of books that have shaped / changed their lives. I could relate to this book as many books have spoken to me, although I've yet to find one that "changes" my life. I'll just have to keep reading until I find mine! |
| Carol G |
| The Lost Fleet by Jack Campbell |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Good space opera, #3 of a 6 book series. It not only uses the mechanism of an individual in sleep suspension to highlight the changes that time and war can bring to a society, it tells a good story as well. Personally, I could do without most of the very detailed battle maneuver descriptions, but I suppose many would enjoy plotting out the 3 dimensions of a battle in space. |
| Book Momma |
| The Last Illusion by Rhys Bowen |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
This is the latest entry in the Molly Murphy series. I was really disappointed in this book. In it, Molly is acting as a bodyguard to Harry Houdini's wife, trying to find out who is behind attempts on his life. The dialogue is awkward. The relationship between Molly and her policeman boyfriend is increasing unbelievable. |
| Jan Atkins ([email protected]) |
| The Postmistress by Sarah Blake |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
A good book, but was preceded with too much hooplah before I read it, so it didn't live up to all the hype. I'm not sure why it is titled as it is, because the story is about so much more than the postmistress character. A good WWII story, told froma different perspective, it will provide a book club with lots of discussion. |
| Joanne ([email protected]) |
| The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I could not put this book down. It looks at life through a dogs eyes. My book club and I learned so much. I highly recommend this one! |
| Joanne Green ([email protected]) |
| A Land Remembered by Patrick D. Smith |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A wonderful journy back to a time of the pioneer in early Florida. Great reading. |
| Carolann |
| The Girl Who Played With Fire by Stieg Larsson |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
These are the best books, there is one more to go and we must really mourn the loss of Stieg Larsson. |
| Kathie |
| The Devil's Punchbowl by Greg Iles |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Can't put it down!!!!! |
| Suzanne ([email protected]) |
| The Last Days of Old Beijing by Mike Meyer |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I am strolling through this book because that's how I would like to return to Beijing and stroll thru it. And I have a delightful companion to do this with, Mike Meyer. His method of writing is a stroll, and it is with a sense of curiosity and wonder as you travel the pages of his life in Beijing. Having been there only once, I long to go again, and this book is as near to going as the real thing. |
| Lisa Avila ([email protected]) |
| Malice by Lisa Jackson |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Great book!! Detective thinks he leaves his past behind him, until he has an accident and starts to see his dead ex-wife. Is she really alive? or is someone messing with him? |
| Coral Harrison |
| A Home Made Life by Molly Wizenberg |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
The author is a cook as well as an author. She tells about her life and family. Always there is a meal so she tells about it and includes the recipes and the history of the food. It is from when she was a girl until after she is married. Her husband loves food as much as she does. An interesting book to read. |
| Book Momma |
| Split Image by Robert B. Parker |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
I'm guessing this is the last entry in the Jesse Stone series, after Parker's recent demise. I didn't enjoy it as much as I have others. Stone is involved in solving the murder of several members of the underworld. Identical twin sisters are part of his investigation. Sunny Randall (a character in another Parker series) is also in this book. |
| Susan J. |
| Young Woman and the Sea by Glenn Stout |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Trudy Ederle was the first woman to swim the English Channel, and this is her story. However, it is much more than that. It is also the story, to a lesser degree, of the English Channel, of the acceptance of women athletes, of the acceptance of swimming in general and especially for women. The story opens with a tragedy on the East River. A pleasure boat carrying families caught fire and many died because they didn't know how to swim. I didn't realize that even in the early 20th century, swimming for women was taboo, considered immoral. This tragedy started a movement to teach swimming, if only for safety. Trudy must have been a remarkable young lady. She was strong and athletic, accomplishing what most other swimmers would never be able to do, but she was also very close to her family and a little naive. She was sometimes taken advantage of. She was somewhat shy and also had a hearing impairment that made her uncomfortable in crowds, detrimental to her when she became well known. The story even includes a mystery about her first attempt at crossing the channel. The book was, for the most part, well written, and includes some great photographs. For my taste, there was occasionally a little too much detail, especially about individual swimming events and times. And I think that the title, Young Woman and the Sea, doesn't really do justice to the story even though it is probably a take on Ernest Hemingway's THE OLD MAN AND THE SEA. Overall, the book was both informative and entertaining. |
| CC |
| My Wife's Affair by Nancy Woodruff |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This was an unusual book in that it was written from the husband's point of view and contained a "story within the story" as we learned about Mrs. Jordan as well as the main characters. Very enjoyable book! |
| Celeste |
| Fireside by Susan Wiggs |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I really enjoy The Lakeshore Chronicles series and this one, in particular, is really good so far! |
| Anita Nowak |
| The Girl Who Play With Fire by Stieg Larsson |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
While at the airport (returning from my Caribbean vacaton) I spotted this new novel in paperback and just had to buy it immediately. After reading the THE GIRL WITH DRAGON TATTOO, I knew I would be in for a treat. This novel is somewhat a continuation of the first, and is even better than the first. It was over 700 pages long and never once did I get bored as sometimes happens with other long novels. It is full of suspense,and is extremely well written. Once again Salander finds herself in trouble, but I don't want to give away the plot. It is a wonderful , worthwhile read and I'm absolutely sure, no one will be dissappointed. I am waiting impatiently for the 3rd book in the series. The shame of it is Mr. Larsson did not begin writing these novels earler, so that we would have more to look forward to reading. If there were more than 5 stars this one is worth at least a 10! |
| Jean M |
| The Faithful Spy by Alex Berenson |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A very good suspenseful book. This is the first in the series and I am reading the rest of them. |
| Elizabeth ([email protected]) |
| Rebecca by Daphne Du Maurier |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
REBECCA........What a great classic....very slow at first, but once you get started, you can't put it down. I figured out a few things as I was reading, but the end was quite a surprise. I was not happy my book club chose this book, but it turned out to be a wonderful choice. Not sure why I took so long to read this book.:) You won't be disappointed once you get past about the first 50 pages. ENJOY!! |
| Endorra |
| Cutting for Stone by Abraham Verghese |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A book not to be missed. Incredible writing. |
| Judy |
| The Russian Hill Murders by Shirley Tallman |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is the 2nd book I have read by this author and I find it very entertaining, interesting characters, good plot, enough to keep up the interest until the end. |
| Judy |
| Bellfield Hall by Anna Dean |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I am just getting started with this book but I can tell it is a fun book already with clever writing, a sense of humor and an interesting point of view. |
| Daryl Sedore ([email protected]) |
| Queen of Bedlam by Robert McCammon |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A must read. This is one of those that must be read. It is the second novel of a trilogy. Please read... |
| CBock |
| Fruit of Her Hands by Michelle Cameron |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Absolutely wonderful historical fiction... set in 12th century in France and Germany... the story of the wife of a famous (real) Rabbi and their family's trials and struggle to remain faithful to their faith. |
| CBock |
| Too Much Happiness by Alice Munro |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Beautiful, moving, sometimes startling so, short story collection by a master story teller. |
| Jo |
| I Alex Cross by James Patterson |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Finally, a decent offering from Patterson. The last couple of Cross books were weak. In my opinion, this book was better. I hope Patterson brings back Cross nemesis, Kyle Craig. I had fun trying to figure out who Zeus was. IThis book entertained me & that is all I ask from a book. I hope Patterson continues to improve the Cross series. |
| L. Hann |
| Act of God by Susan R. Sloan |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Excellent. Very suspenseful. |
| Pam ([email protected]) |
| The Dome by Stephen King |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This book takes King back to the days when his writing was crisp, fresh, and you couldn't wait to turn the page! A clear dome has appeared over and around the town of Chester's Mill. No one in and no one out. The military can't figure it out, and the only hope of keeping peace is a former army officer who does not want this job. The characters are very believable, and if you live in a small town, you will recognize some of your citizens! I am about halfway through (it is a huge book) and can't put it down. Can't wait to see how this one is going to turn out. My favorite King book since THE STAND! |
| K. Ferg |
| Roseflower Creek by J L Miles |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
If you enjoyed LOVELY BONES you will love this book. It is rich with the flavor of the south and growing up with an abusive step parent. You can't put this book down once you start reading. |
| Karen |
| Fatally Flaky by Diane Mott Davidson |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A fun little mystery but with great recipes. Always enjoy finding out what trouble Goldy can get her self into and what she is cooking. Don't read this book if you are dieting. There is too much talk about yummy food. |
| Barbara S. |
| Calculated Loss by Linda L Richards |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Just finished reading the 3rd book in the Madeline Carter series. Madeline proves that her ex husband did not commit suicide and she tracks down his murderer. Not as good as the first two books. Had to read about half the book before it got interesting. |
| marilynd |
| The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I'm listening to this long audio novel about the construction of the cathedrals in England --- how they learned to create flying buttresses, arches, etc. and how hard it was to build in the Middle Ages. Fascinating! |
| Debi |
| The Help by Kathryn Stockett |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Although the plot is good, I was disappointed in some of the characterization. It kept me reading because I wanted to find out what happened to Aibileen. It ended too soon, yet there was a feeling of optimism when it did. |
| Janet S. |
| Strange Angels by Lilith St. Crow |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Too much like all the other YA paranormal books out there. I do like the character of Graves and think that's a great name for a character in an urban fantasy novel. |
| Ivy Pittman ([email protected]) |
| Irreplaceable by Steven Lovey |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
When Alex looses his wife, Isabel in a wreck less accident, it is not so much her death but her consent to donate her heart and organs that sets the story on a dizzy road of recovery and peace. This is a story that will break your heart, make you laugh and see that out of all tragedies can come something beautiful. |
| Pattie Berryhill ([email protected]) |
| The Given Day by Dennis LeHane |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Takes place in 1940's Boston about a Boston Cop. and the story of how badly black people were treated. |
| T. Thomas |
| Fantasy in Death by J. D. Robb |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Another Eve Dallas winner. |
| Jo |
| Finger Licking Fifteen by Janet Evanovich |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I love the Stephanie Plum series. I wanted a book to make me laugh & to help me forget my troubles. This book did just that. Stephanie, Lula & Grandma Mazur crack me up. I can't wait for number 16! |
| Kathy Campbell ([email protected]) |
| The Help by Kathyrn Stockett |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Wonderful debut novel, full of wonderful characters, diversity issues, a real period piece, love it! |
| Jo |
| Kisser by Stuart Woods |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I hated the last two Stone Barrington's books. I usually buy them hot off the press but not since the last two books. I have read all of SW books & I usually like them. The last two books were phoned in. I picked this up at the library & I'm glad I did. KISSER is getting back to the SW books of old. This book made me laugh & kept me turning the page. I look forward to his next book. |
| ME |
| My Sister's Keeper by Jodi Picoult |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
An absolutely wonderful book, best I have read in a while. |
| Debi |
| Winter Garden by Kristin Hannah |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Actually this deserves a 5+! I waited a long time before I read any of Hannah's books, and I'm sorry I did! This one is the best! The descriptions, the psychology, and the style all come together with a perfectly-told plot and a bittersweet ending. So many times the ending ruins the book...but not this one! We feel and see what Meredith does. Meredith is a middle-aged mother who is forced to get to know her own Russian-born mother. I felt Meredith's pain, and, at times, I wanted to tell her to grow up! Great book! |
| Vincent Zandri/author of Moonlight Falls |
| Crossroads by Steven Nedelton |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Reminiscent of John Le Carre with a dash of Ian Flemming, Steven Nedelton's Crossroads plunges us deep into the complicated and not yet thawed Cold War mind-power experimentations and its dubious dark characters that once inhabited that volatile underworld. Written with an uncanny knack for plot and time-shifting, this 21st century thriller also introduces us to 20 th century CIA Agent David Tallman, the main character who possesses depth, passion and, in the grand tradition of Hemingway at his best, more than his fair share of tragedy and wickedness. An unusually multi-layered and absorbing novel, Crossroads will be and should be read by thriller and spy novel enthusiasts all over the globe. |
| Jim Marks |
| Crossroads by Steven Nedelton |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This thriller is rated five stars by most readers and reviewers on Amazon. It is an espionage action novel, with very interesting characters, based on the CIA and the former KGB involvement in paranormal. |
| Reeta Harrison |
| Middlesex by Jeffrey Eugenides |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I found this title on a list of 1001 books you should read before you die, and it measures up to the hype. It's easy to see why it won the Pulitzer Prize. |
| GladysMP |
| When She Flew by Jennie Shortridge |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This book is far different from the romance books I have been reading lately. The author says the book is about an actual event, but that she has fictionalized it. The subjects are a father and his daughter and their life living in the wilderness along with when they were taken from that wilderness and brought into civilization. A lot of nature mentioned here and a well-written story. |
| Daryl Sedore |
| Queen of Bedlam by Robert McCammon |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Great read! Should read SPEAKS THE NIGHTBIRD first and then this one. The third is out now too. I've been reading Mr. McCammon since 1989 when I picked up Swan Song. He's a wonderful writer with quite a unique way with the written word. I absolutely recommend this book. |
| Patricia B. Potts ([email protected]) |
| Whispers of Death by Beckett, Simon |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Suspense/Murder. Simon Beckett gives insight into the "Body Farm" located inTN. The main character is a Britsh forensic anthropologist visiting the U.S. by invitation of his mentor where he becomes involved in a serial murder case. The book gets a tad draggy at times, but the ending is quite a surprise. |
| Ilene |
| The 13th Hour by Richard Doetsch |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
What would you do if you could change history? Nick gets the gift of being able to relive the preceding 13 hours and attempts to prevent the murder of his wife. But in so doing, causes other tragic things to happen. What finally happens? Time travel at its best. |
| Jo |
| Gone, but Not Forgotten by Phillip Margolin |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This book is so good, I read it once a year. It never gets old. If you want a thrilling read that is a definite page turner this is the book for you. It is a book that will keep you up late trying to guess who the bad guy is. I read all of Margolin's books. He is excellent. |
| Jo |
| Evil at Heart by Chelsea Cain |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Not for the faint of heart. What a page turner. Ms Cain, keep them coming! |
| Linda Maxine Williams |
| First Daughter by Eric Van Lustbader |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I had only read the BOURNE books by this author so decided to try this one and the new one THE LAST SNOW. These were about a new character Jack McClure who has dyslexia which makes his job as an investigator doubly hard. I love this character and am looking forward to reading THE LAST SNOW and perhaps some of the other books by Van Lustbader. |
| Janice |
| Frame Up by Dobbyn |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Great thriller that brings together international crime and legal thriller. |
| Debbie ([email protected]) |
| Shadow Tag by Louise Erdrich |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This is a story about a Minnesota couple who have grown apart. The husband is a famous artist/painter and his wife is his model. Both the husband and wife are partial American Indians, and the story utilites Native American images. The couple have three children. The story centers on the unraveling of a marriage and a family, and the depths of love. The ending is tragic. Parts of the story move quickly, then suddenly, the story falls apart. |
| Fran |
| The Godmother by Carrie Adams |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
A light chick lit book about a single woman, who is Godmother to many of her friend's children. Interesting book...very chick lit format. Not earthshattering but held my interest. |
| Gail |
| The Help by Kathryn Stockett |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Excellent novel set in the 60's in the south - tells the story of a young college grad writing about black maids and their work as told from their perspective. Very moving and memorable story. |
| Gail ([email protected]) |
| Pursuit by Karen Robards |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
What a fun, fast, page turning read. All about political intrigue, suspense, with some romance, mystery and thrills. Fun ride! YUM! Love her books and just started reading Guilty. Looking forward to Shattered. |
| Sheila |
| The Rent Tent: A Novel by Anita Diamant |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
A retelling of the biblical story from a woman's point of view. Although I admired the author's ambition and the strength of the female characters, overall I didn't enjoy it as much as I expected to. |
| John |
| Run for Your Life by James Patterson & Michael Ledwidge |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
A murderer who calls himself the Teacher goes on a murder spree in the City of New York. Detective Mike Bennett is assigned the case, but Mike is also busy raising ten children as a widower. The Teacher, unhappy with Bennett's involvement in trying to stop him, takes a Bennett child hostage as he tries to kill his final target, a couple from the elite sector of New York society. Bennett must go all out to save his daughter from certain death at the hands of the Teacher. As a mystery, it was enjoyable, but as this was my first Patterson book, I think I expected more. |
| Barbara |
| One Good Dog by Susan Wilson |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This was a super good book; recommend it to everyone. |
| Mary |
| Undone by Karin Slaughter |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
When I had finished with Beyond Reach I was devastated by Jeffery's death, but after reading UNDNE Slaughter's method to her madness became clear. Slaughter is EXCEPTIONAL. Teaming up Will and Sarah in the same book was fabulous. |
| Lisa |
| Just One of the Guys by Kristan Higgins |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Closer to 4 1/2 stars. This book is so much fun and is more than just chick lit. This is a story about fireman and their family. The family and the dog make the story. It will make you happy, sad and everything you want from a great story. |
| Kristie |
| South of Broad by Pat Conroy |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Excellent read. Took me a while to get through, but it was worth it. In the beginning he mentions that he lives in Charleston WAY WAY too much... but then it gets better. |
| Kristie |
| House Rules by Jodi Picoult |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Not her best work but it was interesting to get into the brain of a person with Asberger's Syndrome. It was interesting that Emma noticed these traits in her ex -husband Henry. Food for thought. Also, it was realistic in that marriages often fall apart when trying to care for a child with special needs. |
| Deborah |
| Beyone Rational Management by Quinn |
| Rating: 1 Stars |
|
Required reading - outdated |
| Debbie ([email protected]) |
| The Executor by Jesse Kellerman |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
I was expecting a thriller mystery, and was disappointed. The majority of the book discussed Joseph Geist and his worthless life. Joseph is over thirty and does not have a job nor can he complete his dissertation. Joseph lacks ambition and drive, he owns nothing and lives cheaply with other people. The book discusses free will, and Joseph makes his biggest free will decision: he commits two murders, and then confesses to the crimes. His attitude in prison seems to be one of comfort and acceptance. He almost seems to be happy to have his life so structured. Alma is an interesting figure. She gives to both Joseph and her nephew, Eric. She requires so little from each of these pitiful men. Is she atoning for her family's past sins? The book has merits. After reading the book, so many of the scenes and minor characters enter my thoughts: Daciana-the maid, Yasmina-the ex-girlfriend, and Dr. Cargill. THE EXECUTER is not what I expected, the majority of the book goes into too much philosophy and free-will, and the final part happens so quickly that the reader wonders what happened. |
| Lisa |
| Winter Garden by Kristin Hannah |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This starts off a little slow, but what a story. It is a great history lesson about Stalin and Russia during World War II. The family drama is wonderful and you will be glad you read it. |
| Lisa |
| A Proper Pursuit by Lynn Austin |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I was worried this being by a Christian author that it might be preachy, but what a fun and wonderful story. I learned so much about the worlds fair at the turn of the century and loved every moment of this book. You will laugh and cry and be glad you read it. Best book I have read all year. |
| Joan Mitchell |
| True Colors by Kristin Hannah |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
TRUE COLORS is the story of loss and love, loyalty and faith. The three Grey sisters have learned to depend on each other since the loss of their mother many years before, until a stranger comes to town... Unlike the other residents of their small town, Vivi Ann Grey disregards the racial differences, befriending and then marrying Dallas Raintree, despite her father's venomous disapproval. When Dallas is arrested for the murder of a woman known to be his friend, the town residents say they knew he was no good. Only Vivi Ann is sure of her husband's innocence... but can she prove it? Kristin Hannah handles the issues of racial discrimination and unjust imprisonment in a tasteful manner. This well-written novel is a page-turner from the beginning, with just enough suspense and action that keeps a reader on the edge of his or her seat, waiting to discover what happens next. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this entire novel, but from about the middle on through to the end, I literally could not put it down... It has been many years since I stayed up all night reading 200 straight pages... but with True Colors, there was no choice... I just couldn't stop. TRUE COLORS is recommended for all readers age 17 and up who enjoy a well-written and suspense filled story. |
| Joan Mitchell |
| Very Valentine by Adriana Trigiani |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
The opening of VERY VALENTINE is a wedding scene that should be both interesting and a little exciting, but not for me. I found the first chapter to be largely irrelevant; most of the characters quickly became annoying. I kept on reading only because friends of mine had said the story got better; and it did, but not until about the middle of chapter two. If I had been the editor, I'd have insisted on a re-write for the slow-paced and mostly boring opening chapters. As it was, I skipped most of chapter one and skimmed the first half of chapter two, until the real story got started... and then I couldn't put the book down. Despite the poor opening of this book, I was quickly wrapped up in the lives of Valentine Roncalli and her family and friends. Gram Angelini nearly stole the show; In fact, I think she's probably my favorite character in the book. Valentine has several problems, most importantly, how to bring the Angelini Shoe Company into the 21st century, but also her stuffy and annoying big brother, Alfred Roncalli, who seems to only think of money and himself; (Alfred wants to shut down the unprofitable cobbler's shop) and Valentine's new boyfriend, Roman Falconi, engrossed in his own business; a new restaurant, which Roman puts ahead of his own and Valentine's happiness. The ending of this first volume of Adriana Trigiani's new series takes the reader by surprise, but because there are two more volumes to come, there are the expected loose ends that lead into book 2 of the series. VERY VALENTINE makes my recommended reading list for those who like a blend of comedy, romance, and an all-round good time reading a larger story carved into three segments. |
| Vickie N |
| Saving CeeCee Honeycutt by Beth Hoffman |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Great read. Makes you laugh and makes your heart sad. Great characters you'd really like to know. Very enjoyable. |
| Joan Mitchell |
| House Rules by Jodi Picoult |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Jodi Picoult's HOUSE RULES was only just released this month. It's on top of the NY Times Best Seller list right now. The POV of HOUSE RULES is kaleidoscopic... each of the main character tells his/her part of each chapter, including the autistic boy who has been accused of murder. It is a pretty interesting look into Autism Spectrum disorders in general and, specifically, Asperger's syndrome. |
| RitaB |
| South of Broad by Pat Conroy |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
As always, a beautifully written book about relationships set in the beautiful city of Charleston. Conroy's characters are so wonderfully developed and his descriptions are lush. Skips around in time a bit. |
| RitaB |
| Rainwater by Sandra Brown |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is one of the most beautiful books I've read in a long time. The Washington Post describes this as a romance novel, but I feel that doesn't describe the book at all, and in fact diminishes it. There is romance, yes, but its historical fiction that covers race, poverty, human dignity, and human character. |
| RitaB |
| The Mermaid Chair by Sue Monk Kidd |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Jessie must go back home to care for her mother who has shown increasing psychologic illness for many year, but has now had an episode of self-mutilation. Home is a small, isolated island with few inhabitants and a monastery. The mystery of her mother's illness and its cause plus memories of her childhood starts Jessie on a voyage of self-examination as she realizes that she has limited her own growth and expression in favor of being the nurturer in her family. She examines her marriage and has a relationship with one of the monks which leads to the shedding of her old "self" and the slow, painful emergence of her real "self." Sue Monk Kidd's portrayal of Jessie's inner struggle is well done but very slow. |
| Jud Hanson |
| Sleeping Doll by J. Deaver |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A young lady escaped a serial killer years ago by pretending to be a doll on her bed. Now, the killer has escaped and is bent on revenge towards all the people that helped put him in prison. |
| RitaB |
| Envy by Sandra Brown |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I've just started reading Brown and this book is wonderful. First its about one of my favorite industries--book publishing. Betrayal and good vs evil, are major themes. Good suspense. |
