This contest period's winners each received a copy of BLUE NIGHTS by Joan Didion, THE BOY IN THE SUITCASE by Lene Kaaberbol and Agnete Friis, and ZERO DAY by David Baldacci.
Anita Nowak
True Colors by Kristin Hannah
This was the first of Ms. Hannah's novels that I read. It was a wonderful story of three sisters and their lives told over a period of about thirty years. In addition there was a mystery involved which really kept my interest throughout the book. I plan on reading many more of Kristin Hannah's work.
Yvonne Richardson
A Secret Kept by Tatiana De Rosnay
It was a good read, not as good as Sarah's Key, but it was still well worth reading.
Barbara Peters
Tortilla Curtain by T. C. Boyle
Everyone should read this book. It has a great ending.
Lauren
Uglies by Scott Westerfeld
Scott Westerfeld's Uglies is the first in this YA series set in a (surprise, surprise) dystopian world. It was written a few years ago, so it may have been one of the early YA books to tackle this theme. The writing is not quite as sharp as say, Lauren Oliver, and her similar themed trilogy. In Uglies, we find the narrator, Tally, caught between two worlds. Her best friend has run away to "The Smokies" and Tally sets out on a quest to bring her home. But she finds more than she bargained for in "The Smokies" and she's not sure which world she belongs in. It's a quick read and enjoyable enough for me to want to know what happens next. So I'm going straight to the second book in the series.
Connie B.
Smokin' Seventeen by Janet Evanovich
I absolutely love this series. This is just plain fun, mindless reading. Stephanie, Lula, and grandma always have themselves in some kind of situation. I laughed out loud several times and can't wait until her next one comes out in November.
Carolyn Griffin
Major Pettigrew's Last Stand by Helen Simonson
This was a wonderful story on several levels. The relationships portrayed are between Major Pettigrew and his "friend", between him and his son, and between the villagers and the Major and his friend. At times funny, at times sad, it was a most satisfying read.
Linda McFarland
Stone Cold Seduction by Jess Macallan
Elle has magical powers, but doesn't realize it at first. Her best friend is a paranormal. The guy she loves is a gargoyle.it is such a page turner. It's exciting and nail biting until the very end
Elaine Beierbach
Zero Day by David Baldacci
David has a new book. It's an awesome read!
Maxine Urso
Tough Customer by Sandra Brown
Like all of her books this one is riveting.
Nancy Jansen
Next to Love by Ellen Feldman
Next to Love is about three women whose losses from WWII are almost too great to bear, but they do. It's a brilliant WWII novel and I highly recommend it to all who love literary novels with strong emotional pull.
Rena Tobey
The Beautiful and the Damned by F. Scott Fitzgerald
So far, lyrical and poetic, more so than Gatsby. It has some outright wit, too. Seemingly plot-free so far. We'll see what happens next.
Mary H.
Maine by J Courtney Sullivan
This family saga will appeal to all readers and if you are Irish and from a large New England family, Maine is a must read.
Janis Apgar
In The Garden Of Beasts by Erik Larson
If you like history this is for you! It's a very interesting telling of the US ambassador to Germany as Hitler is coming into power.
Lynda T
The True Meaning of Smekday by Adam Rex
This book is a lot of fun for anyone from tweens to adults. It's a mix of humor, adventure, and sci-fi as Gratuity "Tip" Tucci tells about the aftermath of the invasion of the Boov, an alien race, how she goes in search of her mom, who has been abducted by the aliens, and her adventures with her cat, Pig, and a disgraced Boov named J.Lo as they travel the country in a floating car. If you (or your kids) like books by Daniel Pinkwater, this book should be on your to-be-read list!
Janis Apgar
The Jefferson Key by Steve Berry
This is a very good story of about pirates still doing business. It involves deciphering a code created by Jefferson. I'm really enjoying it.
Carmee Ross
Summer Camp: A Memoir by Diane Hanks
I love this memoir! It is the real life story of a young girl and her two siblings, their life with their alcoholic parents, and their struggles to have a normal childhood. It is very heartbreaking and you can not help but be touched by her story. You want to keep following her life to see how she handles the hurdles of her day to day life with these irresponsible parents. Kudos for her bravery in telling her story in such a dignified way.
Lynda T
Kiki Strike Inside the Shadow City by Kirster Miller
This is a fun action-adventure series for YA girls about the mysterious Kiki Strike as she pulls together a group of girls, each with their own special gifts (such as lock-picking, explosives designing, and disguises) to explore a secret city underneath New York. Will they find the secret treasure hidden in the Shadow City? Will they catch the people who are kidnapping local debutantes? And who is Kiki Strike, really, and what is she hiding?
Action packed and entertaining for pre-teens to adults!
Gina
The Kingdom of Childhood by Rebecca Coleman
This is Coleman's debut novel about a middle aged woman and her disintegrating marriage and affair with an underage younger man. The writing flowed and enveloped me.
ann hengst
In the Sea There are Crocodiles by Fabio Geda
This book contains the personal stories of refugees; mostly a ten-year-old boy and his trials and fights for survival.
Art Harriman
The Reversal by Michael Connelly
Mickey Haller, the "Lincoln Lawyer" and half-brother to LA detective Harry Bosch, guides the prosecution in a second trial of a convicted child rapist/murderer whose presumed DNA sample in the original trial was not a match to the evidence but who is the "Prime Witness" nonetheless, as Mickey, along with both a prosecution associate (who is an ex-wife) and Harry Bosch, seek to prove. Absorbing tale by Connelly who is in truly top form.
Jessica M
Legend by Marie Lu
I was lucky enough to get a copy of Legend by Marie Lu through Library Thing’s early reviewers and I devoured it. I finished in the wee hours of the morning because I simply couldn’t put it down. I actually stopped reading at the halfway point to put the book down and go to bed, but found myself picking it up just a few minutes later and putting it down again only when I had finished. Legend is a fantastic addition to any YA dystopian fan’s collection.
Legend is set in a futuristic, dystopian Los Angeles; the U.S. has split into two portions, the Colonies and the Republic, which are constantly at war with each other and whose populations are decimated by the plague. It is told from the dual points of view of June, a 15 year old military progidy, and Day, the Republic’s most wanted criminal. The chapters alternate between each of their views (and do so in a neat visual way, with Day’s chapters printed in gold type and June’s printed in silver/gray). June lives the life of a military prodigy, born and raised in privilege in the Republic, with her older brother Metias. An unfortunate tragedy puts her on the trail of Day, a fugitive on the run from the Republic who grew up in the slums. As their lives collide, they realize that things might not be what they seem in the Republic, that the government may be hiding some profoundly sinister secrets, and that they may not be each other’s worst enemy after all.
Mary Lu’s writing is well-done, the story is action-packed and, while at times predictable, still left me turning the pages to find out what was going to happen next. I’ll definitely be looking forward to the sequel.
Janet
White Cat by Holly Black
I'm just starting it so I'm not really into it yet but it seems to be ok.
Lisa
A Proper Pursuit by Lynn Austin
This is an older book, but what a story. I have not had so much fun or enjoyed a book this much in years. Lynn Austin is a Christian writer but this book is not a preachy or religious, it is just well written and you will feel better for reading it.
Saundra McKenzie
Remembering You by Tricia Goyer
I've only read the first few chapters and so far it is great. I just want to read it all soon as I have to find out what is next.
Kathleen Boucher
Same Kind of Different As Me by Ron Hall and Denver Moore
This is a true story, and one I will not soon forget. Two men of totally different backgrounds meet; one is a very poor black man, who grew up in slavery and extreme poverty; the other a wealthy, white, aristocratic art dealer, with a very caring, loving wife. Their story is one of unconditional love. The book is humorous at times, very sad at times, and always keeps your attention! It is Christianity in its true form!
elaine beierbach
Zero Day by David Baldacci
This is an awesome story.
Julie Siemek
Bones by Jan Burke
This is my new favorite author. The book is fast paced and full of surprises.
Nico De Marchi
The Sense of an Ending by Julian Barnes
Julian Barnes is a musician. His words are sounds and his book is a symphony, also a quiet short one (150 pages). Coming to term with one's past and realizing the "distortions" in our memories is the subject of the book. Convinced as we were that we did well and fair in our youth, Mr. Barnes proves us wrong.
He uses beautiful and subtle language. The words are shaped to express exactly what the writer intends. We follow the narrator's introspection and recognize some parts of ourselves. Very good book!
Allison gardner
Silver Wedding by Maeve Binchy
This is a great family saga.
Stacey K
The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader by C.S. Lewis
I had read the preceding books in the Narnia series, and I wanted to read this one after seeing the movie. It is somewhat disappointing --- I don't know if that is because I saw the movie first and it was so good. The descriptions in the book are not clear and the old English language is distracting. I would recommend skipping this book and just watching the movie. Hopefully the last two books in this series will be better.
Sharon Long
The Tale of Halcyon Crane by Wendy Webb
What a great novel! It's very Gothic and spooky with ghosts, a haunted house, murders and all set on an island. It's a wonderful debut novel. I hope Wendy writes many, many more!!
Sharon Elliott-Fox
The American Heiress by Daisy Godwin
Perhaps it was the money, but I just couldn't relate to any of the characters--- not even the maid whose economic status was far closer to my own. The people seemed like cardboard cut-outs. The only redeeming feature that I found was that the theme that secrets are destructive to relationships.
Mary Rodriguez
Devil's Food Cake Murder by Joanne Fluke
If you enjoy reading mysteries, this is a good read.
Sue Latham
Cane River by Lalita Tademy
If you liked The Help you will like this. It is about three generations of black woman in the south, and how things change (for better or worse) over the years.
Kathy McCrmick
Left Neglected by Lisa Genova
This is a Wwonderful story! I can feel this woman's frustration. This is a book that reminds us what is important in life. Read it, it won't disappoint.
Andrea
Consent to Kill by Vince Flynn
I think Mitch Rapp is one of the best characters ever created. He gets the job done, and also gives you a few chuckles.
Doothy
Room by Emma Donoghue
I started reading this and put it down but after reading the reviews picked it up again. The reviews were correct. You have to get into it. It was an excellent read.
nancy salerno
The Best of Me by Nicholas Sparks
This is romance at its best.If you like Sparks,you will love this.
Teens from different sides of the track who fall in love,separate and meet again as adults.They never forgot each other.
You can't wait to turn the pages and are sad to end the book.
Irene
Louise's War by Sarah Shaber
DC during WWII is fascinating, not only in how significantly womens' roles changed during the war, but also in the intriguing melange of unconventional characters bustling about the city. Louise Pearlie of Wilmington, NC is one of these unique women whose lackluster life toiling at her family's fish camp (in reality, most likely Burgaw, NC) is dramatically transformed "…as the only clerk in the Research and Analysis branch of the Office of Strategic Services with a Top Secret clearance…"
What eventually transpires within these secret, ostensibly secure sanctuaries is the crux of Louise's War, and such events are far too unfathomable to be accepted as reality. The cursory impetus that propelled Louise's frantic attempts to facilitate a timely escape from Nazi-occupied Vichy, France for her dear friend Rachel and her children is an integral narrative which deserved more consideration and exposure than it received.
Gail Spitzer
The Best of Me by Nicholas Sparks
Another great book by this wonderful author. I am truly enjoying it.
Jean L
The Grief of Others by Leah Hager Cohen
I was not sure that I would like this book so I was pleasantly surprised by how much I did like it. I loved the characters. They were all well-drawn and interesting.
Jean L
Pursuit of Justice by DiAnn Mills
Set in Texas, this is the story of an female FBI agent. She has overcome great odds to become a success. It has some suspense as you try to figure just who are the bad guys.
Jean L
City of Bones by Michael Connelly
This is one of the Harry Bosch series books. I have read most of them but had missed this one. I'm glad that I found it. This is another good read from Connelly. He writes really good books!
Irene
Rules of Civility by Amor Towles
Without a doubt, Rules of Civility ranks in the top ten of 2011's best debut novels. The magic, mesmerizing setting of New York City in the late 1930's and the captivating distinct characters of Katey Kontent, Eve Ross and Tinker Grey are incredible.
Ivy Pittman
Townie by Andre Dubus III
Dubus pours his personal history on these pages. The details by which he tells his life's journey, his personal struggles and how he grew into the man and writer that he became is a blessing. As he brings his memoir to close he so poignantly says what this life is all about through a gentle yet firm sharing of The Lord's Prayer.
I want to say, "thank you" to Mr. Dubus for stepping out there!
Rosemary Sobczak
Second Nature by Jacquelyn Mitchard
This book has Interesting moral dilemmas, but too much "perils of Pauline".
Pattie Berryhill
The Taste of Salt by Martha Southgate
This is an interesting story of an African American family and addiction.
Kenneth A Schwab
The Authentic Gospel of Jesus by Geza Vermes
Vermes is probably the most authoritative person on Jesus in our time. To fully understand his writings, I should suggest that you read a short biography of his life. "The Authentic Gospel of Jesus " is a completely non-biased writing that provides us with an abundance of knowledge about Jesus. No matter what your religion, this book is not meant to offend or to change your beliefs. After you read this book you will be looking for his bibliography.
Annette Schmidt
Only Time Will Tell by Jeffrey Archer
This is the first book in a trilogy that takes place after World War I in England. Rich dynastic families and a poor one are joined by a boy who is the result of a one night stand by someone from the rich family and raised as the son of a stevedore.
Irene
Rules of Civility by Amor Towles
Without a doubt, Rules of Civility ranks in the top ten of 2011's best debut novels. The magic, mesmerizing setting of New York City in the late 1930's and the captivating distinct characters of Katey Kontent, Eve Ross and Tinker Grey are incredible .
Liza
We Bought a Zoo by Benjamin Mee
After a slow beginning the story really takes off. It's a story of a man achieving his dream of owning a zoo, complete with stories of big cats escaping, animal dental appointments, and his own interaction with the snakes, wolves, lions, otters and a host of other miscellaneous animals. A great book for animal lovers, just give it fifty pages or so.
B. J. Simon
A Double Death on the Black Isle by A. D. Scott
I loved this second book in the series. It's set in a small Scottish town in the 50s. The development of characters especially the protagonist is enjoyable to read. I look forward to book three.
marion miller
The Paris Wife by Paula McClain
I've read most of Hemingway's books but I never knew much about him. He was a terrible husband and father. This is quite a tale and the movie Midnight in Paris is similar. I just love reading and watching stories about the lives in Paris in the 20's. This was really good!!
Kathryn B
Sonata for Miriam by Linda Olsson
I have had this book for some time and have been reading it the last few days with only a few pages left. It is told in first person by Miriam's father --- and also partly by her mother. It is not a happy story but it resonates with the background of secrets and the result of keeping them. I am pleased to be finally reading it and have enjoyed it, though it took most of the first chapter to determine exactly what was happening. I have wanted to find out what would happen next as 'secrets' are revealed.
Tessa B
Butcher's Hill by Laura Lippman
Tess Monaghan is back for book three. Here she tackles Baltimore's foster care system and an old case of neighborhood vigilantism. It had a good pace but is a little too neatly tied up in the end.
Francisca E B
Shepherd's Abiding by Jan Karon
This is book eight of nine in the
Mitford series. Christmas is coming and Father Tim Kavanaugh has a special project he is working on as a surprise for his wife, Cynthia. She, meanwhile, has a surprise in store for him as well. As we continue to follow the residents of Mitford in their holiday preparations it becomes clear that the best gifts are those that come from God.
Lisa
Killed At The Whim of a Hat by Colin Cotterill
I loved this book! If you enjoy his other books, or are a fan of Ladies' No 1 Detective Agency, this is the book for you. Filled with quirky characters, delightful humor and a vivid sense of place.
Donna Haueter
Conquestadora by Esmeralda Santiago
This is historical fiction with Puerto Rico as a setting. It talks about slavery and living on a very remote sugar cane plantation. It was fascinating
Connie Crowe
The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake by Aimee Bender
The ethereal link between food and emotions seems indescribably sad for the main character, Rose, but actually is a gift which she determines later in the book.
T. Thomas
The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
A little confusing at times, but overall it is a good book.
Dan Rainwater
A Dishoronable Few by Robert Macomber
This is book four of seven in a series about a northern naval officer. The series follows him from the civil war to adventures in the southern seas in the Gulf of Mexico. Great stories that keep you turning the pages. I look forward to reading the next book, which I have bought already.
Alissa Cook
Now You See Her by James Patterson
This book is utterly fantastic! If I could, I'd request compensation from James Patterson for the beautiful manicure I had when I began reading this book, since it is because of his literary suspense genius that caused me to chew all my nails! Seriously though, you won't be sorry after reading this novel. It took me into the world of the characters. I am a very slow reader. It normally takes me two weeks or so to finish the average 350 page novel. I finished this one in three days, it was that good, I just couldn't put it down for nothing!! I'm about to move on to Patterson's newest novel, Kill Me if You Can. I hope it's just as good!
Linda Jitmoud
So Much For That by Lionel Shriver
This book is very enjoyable, with well-developed characters and a plot that sounds all too possible to someone my age.
Nancy Laws
Room by Emma Donoghue
This is a wonderful thought provoking book seen through the eyes of a five year old child!
stephanie
And the Shofar Blew by Francine Rivers
This is an excellent book. She can make a character come alive for me. I am sad for it to be finished.
Carolann Goslee
Saturnalia by Lindsey Davis
I am reading this series about Falco,an informer (think private eye) working in Rome A. D. 76. Each book has relevant maps and lists of characters. I am really enjoying them. Ms Davis describes their clothes, jewelry, food, baths, travel means--the way of life during this time period.
Jeff Danner
Sphinx by Robin Cook
I enjoy Cook's books and have recently been reading his early works. This was a good one.
Angela Satalino
Little Bee by Chris Cleave
It started out a little slow, but boy did it take off! I keep reading anxiously waiting to see what happens next. What is the connection between Little Bee and Andrew? What happened on the beach? When will I find out? I kept asking myself these questions and couldn't wait to find out. There are things happening in Africa I knew nothing about; what a shame!
Betty Stern
Please Look After Mom by Kyung-Sook Shin
This is a story that will stick in your mind for a long time. Four voices narrate the tale, daughter, son, husband, and the missing mom. Each reinforces the universality of family life regardless of cultural differences. The characters did some things right, but regret what they did not do, especially for Mom. A great read!
Phyllis
The Rift Walker by Clay Griffith, Susan Griffith
The Rift Walker, book two of The Vampire Empire trilogy, follows Princess Adele after her rescue from the vampires in the north and her return to Alexandra. She recuperates, misses the Greyfriar, and stalls her wedding to General Clark, the American. Finally, her father orders the marriage plans to proceed so the war against the vampires can begin. Before the final vows are sealed, The Greyfriar swoops in, grabs Adele and abducts her. Adele and The Greyfriar head south to evade the Equatorian forces and plan to meet up with General Anhault, the head of Adele’s troops. The Greyfriar is weakened from the heat but Adele’s powers begin to grow and this is more the story of Adele learning about her geomancer skills. The Rift Walker has battles between vampires and humans, adventures, steampunk style, romance and mystical powers; it’s a book that keeps you enthralled and wanting to know what happens next.
Lynn
Burnt Mountain by Anne Rivers Siddons
This author is capable of so much more! It's a good read for a one-plot story.
Kellie
Lieberman's Thief by Stuart Kaminsky
This book is the fourth in the
Abe Lieberman Series. This series is silently growing on me. The mystery aspect of these books is good but what really grabs me is the characters. Abe is an older jewish cop married to Bess who he adores. He has a daughter, Lisa. If she was my daughter, I’d disown her. She is divorcing her husband and moving to San Francisco and leaving her kids with Abe and Bess, which is really irresponsible. Her ex-husband is getting remarried. She was the one who dumped him and does not want him back but she can’t deal with him being with someone else. Abe is a good cop. He does dabble a bit on the dark side. He has an interesting relationship with these Mexican thugs. They like him and they do him favors. These favors push the limit of the law and in the back of my mind, I feel like this is going to catch up with him one day. His partner, Bill, is divorced and in love. He is in love with an Asian woman. It’s been a struggle but his life has finally taken a positive turn. I like the setting of this series,Chicago. The beat is full of tradition but modern day poverty and struggle is slowly gnawing away at the foundation. Kaminsky has captured it and does a great job portraying it on the page. I enjoy this series and have found the next book on a mooch site.
Nicole Aben
The Red Tent by Anita Diamant
The Red Tent is a tale about the time of the bible from a woman's perspective. I've read it three times it was so good!
Francisca E B
Home to Holly Springs by Jan Karon
This is book one of the
Father Tim series. Father Tim goes home again and finds many connections he didn’t even know he sought. He also makes peace with the memory of his father, and discovers the truth behind many boyhood mysteries. Audio book narrator Scott Sower's “young” voice isn’t quite right for Father Tim and others of his generation, but he does an okay job of other characters.
Lynn in VA
A Secret Kept by Tatiana de Rosnay
She has done it again! This book is not quite as good as Sarah's Key, but she did another fabulous job writing this one. This story is written from a man's point of view --- about his family life, his dead mother, and his sister. His coming to terms with current issues and those from the past. It's a very good read!
Jackie Ranaldo
The Bully-Free Workplace by Gary Namie
This is a non-fiction guide on how to prevent bullying in the workplace. It contains fantastic statistics. I couldn't believe how prevalent the problem is. It also gives employers ideas on how to stop or prevent bullying.
debbie tyree
The Dog Who Knew Too Much by Spencer Quinn
I love the interaction of Chet and Bernie, if it wasn't for that dog a case would never get solved.
debbie tyree
Murder By Mocha by Cleo Coyle
This is a great mystery and I love all the coffee recipes.
Linda H
Hour Game by David Baldacci
As murders occur in the small town of Wrightsburg, former Secret Service agents Sean King and Michelle Maxwell are deputized by the local sheriff. The killer is leaving clues similar to ones left by infamous murderers. The victim is left with a watch pointing to the hour indicating the number of the victim. Even when the FBI is called in, no one can figure out who the murderer is and who might be next. Baldacci reels you in with his books and this one is no exception.
Linda H
Simple Genius by David Baldacci
Sean King has been hired to investigate the suicide of a scientist on the grounds of the CIA. Not everyone believes that the man committed suicide leaving his extremely talented daughter by herself. After Sean has spoken with the scientist in charge at Babbage Town, the man is found several hours later supposedly drowned in the bathtub. When Sean and the local sheriff ask for specific searches by the medical examiner, the morgue is blown up killing the medical examiner. Now sure that no one has committed suicide, Sean believes that the CIA facility is behind what is happening. Since this is restricted territory, he is unsure of how to proceed until his partner, Michelle Maxwell, arrives on the scene. Although a good book, I did not think it was as good as Baldacci’s other novels.
Linda H
Last Man Standing by David Baldacci
Web London is a member of the FBI’s elite Hostage Rescue Team. When his team is charged with leading a group into a drug raid, Web is momentarily frozen while his team members are slaughtered. Web is branded a traitor by some of the teams while others don’t trust him. Others believe this was a reprisal by the Frees, a religious group that was targeted by the FBI. Their leader escaped and the FBI feels that he is headed toward a couple whose son was killed in the massacre. Web and his agent friend are sent to the Virginia farm to safeguard the couple. Thinking it would be a cushy job, it turns out to be anything but easy as Web uncovers drug runners, killers, and kidnappers. A great book.
Linda H
Saint's Gate by Carla Neggers
FBI agent Emma Sharpe had been summoned to a local convent by one of the sisters but the sister was killed before she could tell Emma why she had been summoned. Now Emma’s supervisor is having her assigned a bodyguard, another FBI agent named Colin Donovan. Not just any agent, Colin specializes in undercover work but he was in the area near the convent and the supervisor snagged him with his new assignment. Together Emma and Colin try to solve the mystery.
Linda H
Eve by Iris Johansen
Eve Duncan is a forensic sculptor whose daughter was kidnapped while a child but her body has never been found. She became a sculptor to help other families find closure when an unknown child’s body is found and her work gives a face to the child. This book goes back to Eve’s childhood and her meeting with John Gallo, who fathers Eve’s daughter Bonnie. Eve believes that Gallo was killed while in the Army and raises Bonnie alone. Now Gallo has come back into Eve’s life. This is the first of a trilogy.
Linda H
You Belong to Me by Karen Rose
It took a while to get into this book but once the story began unfolding, it was hard to put the book down. As detective J. D. Fitzpatrick is investigating gruesome murders, he uncovers evidence that the killer is targeting the medical examiner Dr. Lucy Trask. They work together to find the killer before any more murders occur.
Emily Osburn
Death and the Lit Chick by G.M. Malliet
A fun read if you like cozies with the old fashioned "detective explains all to everyone" ending. The suspects are all mystery writers and the send up of all the mystery genres is accurate and funny. If you loved Agatha and Dorothy, you'll like G.M. Malliet
Tabitha
The Best of Me by Nicholas Sparks
I love him! I've read all of his books.
Johanna
Luminarium by Alex Shakar
I just started reading it recently, but I absolutely love the author's style! I can tell this is going to be a great book.
Pat Raines
Dead Stroll by Edward Mercer
This is a thriller set in Louisville, Kentucky in the 60s. It has a great story line and character development.
I live near Louisville, therefore the sites in the book are familiar to me.
Bonnie Gluhanich
Someone Knows My Name by Lawrence Hill
This is a terrific novel about the slave trade and so much more. Hill did his research so it's realistic and the story and pacing keep you riveted. I lost a lot of sleep the past few nights finishing this book! Don't let the length deter you, the pages fly by.
Joan Bickler
The Rules of Civility by Amor Towles
This book has a Great Gatsby feel to it --- poor working girls meet up with rich, handsome
young men in the 1930's. I liked the characters and the way the plot developed. I would
think most folks would like this book. It seems like the 30's are all the rage lately!
Joan Bickler
The Art of Fielding by Chad Harbach
This is a great baseball story. I could not put it down. Maybe it was because I was reading it during
the baseball playoffs and World Series. Don't miss this one.
Judy O.
The Keeper of Lost Causes by Jussi Adler-Olsen
This new thriller by a Danish author is the first installment in his
Department Q series. Carl Morck is a police detective who finds himself as the new head of Department Q, which is dedicated to the task of solving cold cases. His assistant is a rather mysterious man named Assad, who turns out to be an invaluable help to Morck. Their first job is trying to solving the case of Merete Lyngaard, a politician in Denmark, who disappeared five years earlier and has never been heard from again. Everybody assumes that she is dead, but a body has never been found. What follows is an exciting, suspenseful story; and I could hardly put the book down. Now I can't wait for the next installment.
Gail White
The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh
This is a wonderful book! The young girl goes through many struggles to finally to find redemption, love and forgiveness. I loved it! It's beautifully written and had me in tears most of the time with all her struggles. This is wonderful first debut novel!
Rosemary Saar
A Turn In the Road by Debbie Macomber
This book is just so enjoyable. It is a nice light read, but it makes you think about your life, marriage and children. I would recommend this book.
Tessa B
The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo by Steig Larsson
As thrillers / mysteries go this is pretty well written. It starts off slowly because we need to get considerable background to set up the scheme. But after about 100 pages it really takes off. Mikael Blomkvist, a journalist specializing in financial matters, teams with Lisbeth Salander, a young genius at computer hacking, to investigate the 30-year-old disappearance of the young heiress of a major corporate dynasty. I thought there were several extraneous plot points that added little to the main story. Several friends have told me these are further explained in the second and third books, but I’m in no hurry to read the second and third installments.
Connie B.
More Than A Mistress by Mary Balogh
I would actually rate this a 4 1/2 if I could. This is the first book in this series and the first time I have read a book by this author. This was an excellent regency romance that captures you right from the beginning until the very end with wonderful characters.
Susan
When She Woke by Hillary Jordan
This book grabbed my attention from the beginning and I found myself finishing it in the wee hours of the morning. Hannah Payne is like so many women who have an independent streak. A woman who would question the fundamentalist upbringing and with the courage to take her life in her hands and finally not accept being told what and when to do things.
Elaine Beierbach
Zero Day by David Baldacci
Another great mystery solved! Kept me awake thinking.
Jamie Cavner
The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
Imagine a circus that pushes the boundaries of imagination. One day it appears in a lonely field, the next morning it is gone without sound or notice. This is a love story that plays "Romeo vs. Juliet", and makes you wonder "how could they possibly win each others love?"
This book doesn't remind me of anything, which is actually quite a feat. Well deserved praise for this author on her debut novel.
Carol G
An Experiment in Love by Hilary Mantel
This is an amazing story of a young girl in her first year of college looking back on her life as she continues going on with her college life.
Sandy M
Alone by Lisa Gardner
Who can you turn to when you're at your most vulnerable? State Trooper Bobby Dodge watches a tense hostage standoff through the scope of his sniper rifle. Dodge has only one second to react, or a woman and her child may die. This book was a real page-turner and kept me up late at night wanting to know what happens next. I love this author!
Debbie M
Summer in the South by Cathy Holton
Holton presents many of the Southern cliches in this story: the language, the sweet tea, the class distinction, the eccentric characters, and the lifestyle. Many times these props are too time worn and not innovative. The story centers on a young woman from Chicago spending the summer in Tennessee to write a novel. The language and fluency of the novel flow easily and compel the reader. I feel that Holton does not tie up all the threads of the story. Many stories are started and then left hanging.
steve
Emerald by Brian January
I happened to find this on the Kindle store at Amazon and picked it up because it looked good! It's a great read! Lots of action and cool characters. It's about an element from the ancient world with the power to melt the ice in the Arctic ocean to get at the oil.
julie
Brain Rush by Richard Bard
This is a great thriller about a terminally ill fighter pilot who acquires unbelievable cognitive powers while having an MRI.
Marsha
The Affair by Lee Child
If you have never read a Jack Reacher book, start with this one. It details his army days as an elite military investigator. He is ordered to work undercover in Carter Crossing, Mississippi back in 1997. Young women are dead and solid evidence points to a soldier who has powerful friends in Washington. However, nothing stops Reacher and the suspense is unrelenting. Enjoy!
Laurie Leon
Little Black Dress by Susan McBride
I could not put in it down. It was exciting from beginning to end.
Lynn W
Open Season: A Joe Pickett Novel by C. J. Box
Joe Picket, a Wyoming game warden, is a flawed hero who saves his family and metes out well-deserved Wild West justice. This is the first book of this series; I will be reading all of them.
Bobbie Mohney
Hell To Pay by Wendy Corsi Staub
I am having major trouble putting this book down, it is the third book in the series and now I need to go dig out the first two and re-read them as I have forgotten a lot of details. The book is still keeping my attention and the suspense is keeping me from putting it down.
Roe Postilio
Only Time Will Tell by Jeffrey Archer
I could not put this book down. I loved all the twists. If you loved Cain and Abel you will love this first book in a new Archer series. I can't wait to read the next book.
Alyson Widen
All Our Worldly Goods by Irene Nermirovsky
In this book crossing the usual barriers of class, family values stand out as the treasures to uphold.
Sean Penrose
The Ghost by Robert Harris
Robert Harris once again crafts an amazing novel. Being American I felt totally immersed in this world of conflicting political views and ideologies without feeling “out of my element”. The main character has a perfect flawed voice and the former Prime Minister, Adam Lang, is a truly interesting character. There tons of twists all of the them believable but still shocking. Overall a near perfect book.
Connie B
The Mistress by Susan Wiggs
The Mistress is the second book in the Great Chicago Fire trilogy. This book takes place during the Great Chicago Fire in 1871. Kathleen O'Leary, ladies maid to Deborah Sinclair goes to a society outing pretending to be an heiress. There she meets Dylan Francis Kennedy who is the man of her dreams, or so she thinks. However, he is a pretender too. This is where the book really starts to get good.
This is a great weekend read, with some romance. The ending is predictable but happy.
T. Thomas
Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs
This is a wonderful creative book. I loved the old photographs. It leaves open the possibility of a sequel.
Connie B.
Summer At Willow Lake by Susan Wiggs
Summer At Willow Lake is the first book in the
Lakeshore Chronicles series. I listened to this on audio and it is quite a long book but worth the effort. I loved camp as a kid and reading about the dining hall, lake, swimming, and canoeing brought back great memories.
Olivia Bellomy agrees to spend the summer renovating her grandparents old resort camp for their 50th anniversary. There is a family secret revealed and it was interesting to see how the characters reacted to it. The characters are very well developed and make you want to get to know them even better. Even the secondary characters are great.
Lynn Demsky
Mr. Monk on the Road by Lee Goldberg
I have read all the Monk books and honestly this one was the best ---- adding his brother Ambrose to the whole story was such a great idea. Everything has changed and yet it is still the same and to have these three characters together on the road in a trailer was just a delight! Then because they're camping --- all the characters they meet on the road, in the campgrounds, at the sites just add to a purely delightful, interesting read! I finished the book in eight hours and am eagerly awaiting Mr. Goldberg's next adventure staring Monk!!!!
Lynn Demsky
You Can't Stop Me by Max Allan Collins
This book has a fast pace and keeps you reading. Harrow (who's family is slaughtered on the day he saved the President's life) gathers a team and makes a TV show of catching the killer of his family! A great cat and mouse, catch me when you can thriller! Caught my attention from page one and kept it through out the whole book! Good read!
Susan Willis
City of Whispers by Marcia Muller
This is another winner in this series!
Lorna
Storm Front by Jim Butcher
This was the first time I read a fantasy and I really enjoyed it. This is the first in a series about a wizard/ private investigator. He helps the local police when they need help with a case as well as working privately. The wizard has an interesting background and lifestyle. I believe this is the basis for the one time TV series the Dresden Files, which I never saw and now am sorry that I missed.
Elaine Beierbach
Zero Day by David Baldacci
I look for his books first. I miss his characters once the book is gone, they seem so real.
Debbie M
Book of the Dead by Patricia Cornwell
I am thoroughly enjoying the Kay Scarpetta series, and I like the change of venue. Kay, Lucy, Rose, and Pete have moved to Charleston, South Carolina where Kay and Lucy have opened their own investigative lab. Benton is still living in Massachusetts, but he has asked Kay to marry him. Pete has gotten out of control and has disappeared, and Rose is battling lung cancer. This story has many twists and turns as is usual in Cornwell's novels. Cornwell tries to delve into the psychological background of the killer, but Elizabeth George does a better job in relaying the killer's psychology.
Debbie M
The Queen of Palmyra by Minrose Gwin
This is not what I expected, and frankly the story resembles Summer in the South too much. The story is another of those Southern stories with eccentric characters and depressing times. After chapters and pages of this drivel, I gave up.
Valerie
Witch of Portobello by Paulo Coelho
Although I am not a fan of Paulo Coelho, I did love the Alchemist very much. This one wasn't my favorite but it made for a great book club discussion. Some loved it, and some did not finish it.
Kellie
Extreme by Sharon Osbourne
I have always thought Sharon Osbourne was an interesting person. Now, after reading her book, it is confirmed. She is an amazing person. Her life was nothing short of an adventure. Her father was a manager in the music industry out of the UK. He was not the ideal father. He was a scammer, a cheat, a mobster and he used Sharon so he could run his crooked business under the radar. Her mother was not any better. Even though her husband cheated on her and treated her worse than a two-bit whore, she defended him over Sharon several times throughout her life. I didn’t realize how experienced Sharon is in the music business. She meets Ozzy when she was in her early 20’s. They become great friends. They become romantically involved when he is still married. It’s a rocky road, but Ozzy does eventually divorce his wife and marry Sharon. Sharon talks a lot about Ozzy’s addictions and the violence that ensues. She is very open and honest in her writing. I admire her for that. A few things that stand out in my mind after reading this book. Sharon and her family must have lived in fifty different houses. I swear they are moving to a new house in every chapter. They bounce between LA and England. Sharon gets robbed, not just once but several times. You would think they would learn and get an alarm system or safes or something. Sharon has spunk and seems like a fun person to be around. I enjoyed this book and I’m glad I read it
Lesley
The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
I wish I could give it more than five stars. This was a beautiful, thrilling, magical tale. The best book I've read in a while.
Maxine Urso
Rin Tin Tin by Susan Orlean
This book is very nice, so far so good!
ann hengst
In the Sea There Are Crocodiles by Fabio Geda
Told by a young refugee boy this is the story of his travels through Afghanistan, Turkey, Pakistan, Iran, and Greece.
Marsha
Gideon's Sword by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child
Gideon has special skills and is hired for a dangerous operation. this book is great fun and contains lots of thrills, treachery and excitement. These authors have a new hero.
nylne
Zero Day by David Balducci
This is a great read!
Ann Bowen
A Clash of Kings by George R.R. Martin
I've come a little late to this party, but I've been entranced and entertained by the Martin's storytelling. I can visualize the rocky unforgiving Iron Coast, the cold and unforgiving lands beyond the wall, and the three little dragons following Daenerys lead. I am looking forward to the last three books in the series. I will enjoy them as much as I have the first two.
Margie
Dreams of Joy by Lisa See
This book has interesting character development, wonderful depiction of the culture and history of China; it was hard to put down.
Joan Diamond
City of Thieves by David Benioff
City of Thieves is a fictional account of how the two main characters, Lev and Koyla, were sent on a mission together during the siege of Leningrad. The mission was to collect a dozen eggs and bring them back within four days in order for the colonel to provide a wedding cake for his daughter. The story is sometimes quite funny and at other times graphic and horrifying. Benioff interviewed his grandfather for the story so I believe parts of it are true. It is a well told story that hits every emotion.
Rena Tobey
Elizabeth and Hazel by David Margolick
This isn't the best written book, but an amazing account of what happened to the people in the infamous photograph of a black girl entering a white high school in Little Rock, AR in 1957.
Becky Haase
The Cat's Table by Michael Ondaatje
Everyone else is raving about this book, but I could barely finish it. There are some very interesting characters (that we don't see enough of) and some interesting episodes (that are too short and disconnected) and then there is the actual (boring) story. The writing is lovely, but I read for a good, strong story, not to admire word usage. I read it, I won't read another by this author.
Peggy Hoffman
Zeitoun by Dave Eggars
This is the incredible true story of a particular family during Hurricane Katrina.
Becky Haase
Make the Bread, Buy the Butter by Jennifer Reese
This is not a cookbook although it has recipes (and quite good ones at that!). The author is a sensible woman (except where chickens are concerned) who is sharing with laughter (and tears) her take on the items we take for granted from the grocery store. She has made items like bagels and graham crackers and bacon and then compared them to the "store bought" versions. She is witty and wise and not at all didactic. A great book for people who like to cook and fun for those who don't.
Barbara Scott-Cannon
Wishin' and Hopin' by Wally Lamb
This is a great book club read for the Christmas season. It will bring back memories of school days, teacher's pets, and a whole lot more. I certainly would not have expected a book like this from Wally Lamb. I laughed quite a bit. If you're a baby boomer, you will too.
Judy Bates
Listening Is An Act of Love by Dave Isay
This is one of those books you can read a little and then put down for awhile. Interesting stories!
Judy Bates
Crooked Letter, Crooked Letter by Tom Franklin
This is one of the best books that I have read in a long while. Although there is a mystery involved, I am not sure this is a mystery book! It is about two friends as boys and what happens twenty years later and how they reconnect.
Pat S.
Hell os Real (But I Hate to Admit It) by Brian Jones
This is a great thought-provoking book. It contains good suggestions on witnessing those around you.
Pat S.
1225 Christmas Tree Lane by Debbie Macomber
You have to love Debbie Macomber and all her books. This is the end of this series (and I hate to see it end) but have faith Debbie will come up with another series or other excellent books. Just keep on writing Debbie!
Colin Beierbach
Zero Day by David Baldacci
Don't try to read it before bed. It is too stimulating to induce sleep!
Mary Preston
Neverwhere by Neil Gaiman
Richard Mayhew has a fiancee, a decent job and lives a fairly ordinary life until Door suddenly drops into his world. Richard finds himself embroiled in the magic, mystery and danger of London Below, a world unto itself beneath London. This book is pure genius. I loved the good and bad characters, the descriptive language---everything.
Mary Preston
The Once and Future King by T.H. White
The Once and Future King is an epic tale of King Arthur; how he came to the throne and the complicated relationships between Arthur, Lancelot and Guinevere. There are battles, intrigues, murders, brave knights and a lot of history. I loved the whole grand experience. It was full of the strange and quirky.
Mary Preston
Seriously...I'm Kidding by Ellen Degeneres
Ellen has written another volume of memoirs. This is a laugh out loud read. I could hear her voice in my head as I read---it is available as an audio book too which would be hilarious. Perfect light, fun reading.
Mary Preston
Left Neglected by Lisa Genova
Sarah is a high powered career woman who after a car accident loses all sense of left. Her brain only recognizes what is on her right. Will rehabilitation ever bring her back to 'normal'? This was a fascinating read. I can't imagine my brain losing all sense of what is to my left. It does happen.
Mary Preston
A Study in Scarlet by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
This is the first Sherlock Holmes book ever written. So we see the meeting of Homes and Watson and learn about the 'science' of being a detective. Brilliantly written. I loved the characters and the humor.
Mary Preston
The Red House Mystery by A.A. Milne
This is the only detective story written by the author of Winnie the Pooh. Tony Gillingham arrives at a country house to visit an acquaintance &and stumbles upon a murder. He goes about trying to solve the murder with a lot of enthusiasm and energy. This was such a fun book to read. A.A. Milne wrote this book for his father who loved detective stories. I wish there were more of them.
Mary Preston
Heart's Blood by Juliet Marillier
Heart's Blood is inspired by Beauty and the Beast. Caitrin is running from her past, headlong into a world of dark magic and cursed souls. She finds courage within herself, and love. I loved this book. The world of Whistling Tor is beautifully written. I wanted Caitrin to solve the mystery and break the curse. I can't wait to read more books by Juliet Marillier.
Allie
Briar Rose by Jane Yolen
This is a fascinating story about the Holocaust.
Pattie Berryhill
Life Itself by Roger Ebert
This book is about the life of Roger Ebert.
Jean L
Angry Housewives Eating Bon Bons by Lorna Landvik
I absolutely loved this book. It follows the lives of the residents of a neighborhood through the decades. They are well-drawn sympathetic characters who I grew to love.
So often while reading, I was wishing that I could have been a part of a group of women like them.
This is the first book from this author that I have read but I intend to read others by her.
Ali
When We Were Strangers by Patricia Schoenweldt
I would actually give this book a 4.5. It was a great immigration story full of tragedy, hope and redemption. It made me wish I knew more about my family's trek to America.
Julie Siemek
Dust to Dust by Tami Hoag
I don't know how she keeps coming up these awesome books, but I hope she never retires!
Evelyn H
The NIght Circus by Erin Morgenstern
I was a little disappointed in this book. The reviews were amazing and I didn't love it as much as all the reviewers. It was well written.
Laura Beierbach
Zero Day by David Baldacci
I was so enthralled with the story on my e-reader that I missed my LRT stop!
Jackie Ranaldo
The Gate at the Stairs by Lorrie Moore
I am currently listening to this book because so many people told me I would like it. However, I am almost four discs in and not quite sure that I love it. I don't dislike the book, I'm just not loving it the way I think I should. It's about a young college student named Tassie who gets a job as a Nanny for a family who hasn't even adopted a baby yet. She gets stuck going to adoption interviews and standing-in when Sara's husband is not around. It's ery unusual, but interesting.
Gail Spitzer
Once Upon A Time There Was You by Elizabeth Berg
Berg is one of my favorite authors and she remains so with this novel about a couple who comes together amidst a family tragedy after many years of divorce.
Kathleen Boucher
Same Kind of Different as Me by Ron Hall and Denver Moore
What an inspiration! This book leaves me wanting to get out there and be a true Christian by truly helping others. Two men from totally different backgrounds meet at a soup kitchen, one a millionaire international art dealer, the other a homeless person brought up in abject poverty. This is a true story, and one that warms the heart.The rich man grudgingly listened to his wife, and went to serve a meal once a week to the homeless; he meets the poor man, and a wonderful, meaningful friendship ensues. A must read!
Jeff
Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin
I picked this up to see what all the shouting was about and still cannot understand it. Reading it was like slogging through a viscous sea of testosterone with an occasional fashion show thrown in. Yes, he's created a dark fantasy world with the requisite sudden bouts of gratuitous violence, so what? The writing is puerile at best with lots of meat juices running down everyone's face and tankards of ale to wash it all down. Sorry, I won't be continuing this journey into endless winter.
Rosemary Sobczak
Heat Rises by Richard Castle
This book offers great escapism!
Joanne Crump
Fragile by Lisa Unger
Unger usually writes thrillers. This one is more in the line of family dynamics --- reminiscent of Jody Picoult or Jacqueline Mitchard. It is still very good, though.
Fragile is about one missing girl in present day with a back story of a missing/dead girl 30 years ago. The stories make for good reading
Eileen Quinn Knight
You Deserve Nothing by Alexander Maksik
This book was suggested by Liz Taylor in the Chicago Tribune. It is a story that investigates power, morality and what makes the world the best. It is a tale of an international school, of a teacher who has devoted students, and of students who read with passion and a zest for learning. It is a delightful read and one that is inspiring for teachers.
Sandy M
Secret Daughter by Shilpi Somaya Gowda
Somer's life is everything she imagined it would be --- she is newly married and has started her career as a physician in San Francisco -- until she makes the devastating discovery she will never be able to have children.
The same year in India, a poor mother makes the heartbreaking choice to save her newborn daughter's life by giving her away. It is a decision that will haunt Kavita for the rest of her life.
Asha, adopted out of a Mumbai orphanage, is the child that binds the destinies of these two women. This is one of the best books I have read in a long long time!
Jeri
The Reader by Bernhard Schlink
I read this book back in the mid 90's.I believe it was published in '95 or '96 but a gal in our book club chose it for the monthly read. I found re-reading it to be quite interesting plus the fact that I could look up various insights by others to enhance the reading. It offers quite a commentary on 1st and 2nd generation Germans post WWII. Various areas included in the book are pedophilia (?), guilt, obsession, and emotional development.
I only give five stars if I absolutely loved a book.
julie
Brainrush by Richard Bard
This is an edge-of-your-seat thriller about a man who gets extraordinary mental powers during an MRI. I enjoy stories that take place on a backdrop of exciting cities and countries as this book does. It goes from Redondo Beach California to Venice Italy. It had non-stop action and intrigue.
Jeri
Sing Me Home by Jodi Picoult
I was very disappointed in this book as I usually like Picoult 's books. It seemed trite and filled with cliche and stereotypes.I did not even finish it as I was fed up with the characters and the story line.
Jackie Stewart
Now You See Her by Joy Fielding
This is my first read by this author and I almost put it down halfway through. Because I hate an unfinished read I kept going and was glad I did. It did not end as I thought it would. It was worth the wait!
Paula Barclay
Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet by Jamie Ford
This is a true love story with history intertwined. Interesting characters brought this era of history to life.
Mary Ann Kalynycz
Blue by Lou Aronica
This is another parallel world story, but totally different from the others. I totally enjoyed it.
Sabrina Laitinen
Call Me Irresistible by Susan Elizabeth Phillips
This is a fun chic-lit read which is the fourth book following the life and times of character Ted Beaudine. It is set in Wynette, Texas and follows the escapades of this tight knit community. Although I have not read any previously work by this author, this book can seriously stand alone without having read the other books about Ted. It is a fun diversion from more serious reading!
Sue Border
Doc by Mary Doria Russell
I listened to this and it is a fabulous production and a very well written novel. Mary Doria Russell is one of my favorite authors and she did not disappoint me. Even though the West, Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday are not subjects I would typically be interested in reading about, the novel was fascinating! I learned so much about the time period (1870s) and the lives of these famous characters.
Trez
The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
This is a very interesting, well written book.The descriptions are very vivid.
Joan Johnson
Five Chiefs: A Supreme Court Memoir by John Paul Stevens
In our current political atmosphere, it's more important than ever that voters have a perspective on the importance of our judicial system. Five Chiefs offers a review of the judicial lives of the five Chief Justices of the Supreme Court, along with fascinating information on how the Court system works.
Shana Skaletsky
Yoga Bitch by Suzanne Morrison
So far, this book is irreverent and funny--like "Eat, Pray, Love" for snarks.
bobbie d
A Plain and Fancy Christmas by Cynthia Keller
This is a well-written story of two babies switched in the hospital nursery in Lancaster, PA and what happened many years later when they found out.
Carrie Wall
The End of the Wasp Season by Denise Mina
This book is set in Scotland, and I had trouble relating to a story set in another country, but it was so interesting to read about. It's part of a series and I highly recommend it.
bobbie d
Maine by Courtney Sullivan
This is a book about a matriarch of a family and her children and their families revolving around a cottage and a house in Maine. It was ok and I wanted to see how it ended. I didn't like the way the author ended the story.
bobbie d
Only Time Will Tell by Jeffrey Archer
This book is the first of a trilogy. It involves ship building and the haves and have nots. I like the people and of course it leaves you hanging waiting for the next book. It reads like a soap opera. It holds your interest.
Rita Sheppard
Quinn by Iris Johansen
Quinn is the second book in the trilogy leading up to the resolution of what happened to Eve Duncan's daughter Bonnie. The first book, Eve, tells the story of Eve's life with Bonnie and her mother and Eve's search for who killed Bonnie while Joe is critically wounded when he joins the search. A new murder suspect comes to light from Eve's past. Quinn tells the story of how Joe met Eve when he came as an FBI agent to look into Bonnie's kidnapping and disappearance. Joe met Eve and fell in love with her strength, tenacity, and love for Bonnie. The story continues in the search for Bonnie's murderer as Joe fights for his life.
These two books have kept me on the edge of my seat and I didn't want to stop reading. The books are easy but exciting reading for lovers of thrillers.
Ivy Pittman
The Foreigners by Maxine Swann
So far the adventures of Daisy & Leonarda in Argentina are not as exciting as I had hoped and I am on page 132. I had high hopes when I started reading The Foreigners, for I love tales of exotic and even dangerous places and characters. The mystique of living in a foreign country is interesting, but Swann seems to miss the boat when it comes to taking on a climatic journey.
Ivy Pittman
The Glass Room by Simon Mawer
The time period and the intricate details of Europe 1920's included in this book pulled me further and further into Viktor and Liesel Landauers' lives. It's like being invited to a dinner party where there is just so much wonderful food to consume you just don't want to stop eating or for the party to end.
Sue Gulley
North River by Pete Hamill
I loved this book! It's about the depression in New York City, the mob, pain from a missing wife and daughter and love from a little boy and an unexpected lover. I can't wait to read more from Pete!
Janet Harrison
The Lotus Eaters by Tatjana Soli
I love this book. I had no knowledge of the Vietnam war or the journalists who covered it before reading the novel. It is sad, happy, romantic, tragic, informative; everything a perfect novel should have. The writing flows wonderfully and its hard to put down.
Laura Beierbach
Zero Day by David Baldacci
This novel has an impact as soon as you pick up the book.
Teresa Thompson
Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand
This book is riveting, gripping, so engrossing you'll have to put everything on hold to finish this true story of the incredible tale of Louie Zamperini. From his youthful delinquent beginning, rising to high school track star and eventual Berlin Olympic runner who nearly broke the four-minute mile. The endurance and spirit of this man, unbroken by the atrocities of WW II, will have you wondering how anyone could come from the depths of such hell and darkness to regain the will to live life to it's fullest through love, redemption and forgiveness. This was our book club's pick for our December 7, 2011 meeting, yet we have all finished it, unable to put it down.
Elaine Beierbach
Zero Day by David Baldacci
David Baldacci has written another intriguing book that keeps me eager to get to the finish line.
Don Forsythe
The Empty Family by Colm Toibin
I can't get enough of this author. Whether it is a collection of his short stories, as this one is, or one of his fascinating novels, he holds me spellbound with his writing. I think that he is one of the greatest writers that I have had the privilege of reading. I have never been disappointed and look forward to reading more of his work.
Nicole Aben
The Red Tent by Anita Diamant
This book is great and offers an interesting perspective of the times of the bible from a woman's point of view.
Gretchen Paul
Never Knowing by Chevy Stevens
Never Knowing is the author's second book. The first, Still Missing, was an amazing read, one that you just couldn't put down. Never Knowing is written the same way as Still Missing, in that you are reading the lead character sessions with her psychiatrist. The story line was great, but the book seemed to ramble on.
Lynn W
Savage Run: A Joe Pickett Novel (Book 2) by C. J. Box
I really like reading about good-guy Joe Pickett and the gorgeous Wyoming landscape, but this one was too gory.
Dennis Beierbach
Zero Day by David Baldacci
This book has a great start and ending. I like the author's style. I can't give away any details or someone will hate me!
Sue Nuti
My Sister's Keeper by Jodi Picoult
This is an old book from 2004, but timely for me because my sister just died from leukemia. I related to the family dynamics in this story. Every character is strong and likable.
David M Jones
The Poisoner's Handbook by Deborah Blum
This book is a highly readable account, bolstered by excellent research, that doesn't spare the gruesome of the birth of forensic medicine in Jazz Age New York City.
Colin Beierbach
Zero Day by David Baldacci
David Baldacci is one of the stars on my bookcase. The book is enticing so I encourage people to read it.
Christine Freeman
The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
My book club is reading The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern and it is a suspenseful story with mystical qualities. The author weaves together a story of circus life and all its secrets and eccentricities while creating a visually stunning environment. Another first time author knocks it out of the park! Fans of Harry Potter will enjoy it!
Rosalie Sambuco
The Twelfth Imam by Joel C. Rosenberg
Another story by Mr. Rosenberg that could also be the headlines of tomorrow's morning paper. Again he sets his story in the Middle East and tells about the culture and religion of the Muslim people. I highly recommend this book.
Jean V.
The Dog Who Knew Too Much by Spencer Quinn
This fun and witty mystery is about a detective duo of a man, Bernie, and his delightful canine side kick, Chet. This is the fourth in the series, and if you haven't heard of this series, you need to start with the first book in the series entitled, Dog On It! You'll be pleasantly surprised.
Coral Harrison
Betrayal of Trust by J. A. Jance
This is a J. P. Beaumont novel/mystery. It is written in Jance's wonderful style. I like that her characters keep on aging in her stories. Beaumont and his wife Mel Soames are both detectives in the Seattle Special Homicide Investigation Team, called S. H. I. T. As usual this is a great story.
Sally W
Iron House by John Hart
This is a book I read several months ago, and is my favorite book of this year. It is the story of two brothers, their time in an orphanage, and what happens to them later in their lives. It is an excellent mystery and family story all in one. I have read all of John Hart's books, and look forward to the next one.
Denise Beierbach
Zero Day by David Baldacci
Don't start reading it at bedtime if you plan to fall asleep. It kept me up.
Kathy Vallee
Frozen Stiff by Annelise Ryan
I love this author, her characters are so like you and me the it is easy to picture the story line really happening.
In this three book of this series (
A Mattie Winston Mystery ) Mattie is still trying to get Hurley to think more of her then just someone who is a deputy coroner, and more like a woman. Hurley finds himself caught up in someone's plot to destroy him and take away everyone and everything he holds dear. So he turns to Mattie to help clear everything up and clear his name before he is found dead
Joyce Delaney
Still Life by Louise Penny
My brother has been urging me to do this, and at long last, I've begun reading Louise Penny's series about Armand Gamache and the residents of Three Pines. I'm in awe of the author's ability to do three things well. First, to tell a really good story; second, to combine toughness and humanity in her detective; and third, to construct a village cast of characters who seem familiar but not stereotyped. Thanks, big brother!
Karen
The Best of Me by Nicholas Sparks
This book grabs you from the first paragraph and does not let you go until the last. Another great book by Sparks. Don't miss it, it's a classic.
Karen
The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
This book has a great plot but it may be better as a movie. The rights have already been bought. It contains vivid descriptions, lots of characters, but it could use some more development to get the reader to care about the course their lives take. Everything happens in the last 35 pages of the book.
Liz Robinson
Habibi by Craig Thompson
This is probably the most powerful graphic novel you will ever read, other than Maus. Set in a fantastical Middle East it deals with sexuality, love and much more. It is an amazing artistic work.
Susan Vasi
Empire of the Summer Moon by S. C. Gwynne
This book was suggested to me by a friend who said it was a fascinating look into the history of the Commanche tribes and Quanah, son of the kidnapped pioneer woman Cynthia Anne Parker. He was correct in his assessment, but I found the gruesome details of the cruelty from both Indian and white people disturbing. It was a difficult read. The author claims an unbiased account of this history, but it seems the Commanche's "side" of the story leaned a little towards viciousness.
Jo Anne Vincenti
The Accident by Linwood Barclay
This is a fast pace mystery-suspense novel by a great writer who weaves a whole community into the story. This is one book you don't want to put down until you finish.
Jo Anne Vincenti
Eve/Quinn/Bonnie by Iris Johansen
These three books are must reads if you have followed the series; they tell you the story about what really happened to Bonnie and the events that led up to it.
Jo Anne Vincenti
Eve/Quinn/Bonnie by Iris Johansen
These three books are must reads if you have followed the series; they tell you the story about what really happened to Bonnie and the events that led up to it.
Jo Anne Vincenti
Perfect Nightmare by John Saul
If you like thrillers or scary books you will definitely like this. John Saul is up to his old tricks delivering a very scary story.
Marion m.
Vaclav and Lena - by Haley Tanner
What a delightful read!! This book gives the reader insight into the Russian community of Brighton Beach and depicts yhe adaptation to a new life in America and its effect on its youth. A charming story about how children and adults manage survival in a new world.
Diane Castiglione
The Peach Keeper by Sara Addison Allen
I really found this book to be a wonderful read. I found it hard to put down, I wanted to find out more of what would happen next.
A tale of two wonderful Southern women held together by their past and a powerful secret. I just loved the characters and how each in some way gave support to each other though out the story.
A wonderful story of loss, regrets and love. It reminds us to never forget who we are and not to try to be something we are not.
Marjorie Clark
Hell's Corner by David Baldacci
So far so good. I like Baldacci's
Camel Club series and this is one of them.
Judy O.
Friday's Daughter by Patricia Sprinkle
Teensie MacAllester was born on a Friday, which according to the old rhyme, makes her "loving and giving". That is Teensie for sure. Her adult life has been spent taking care of three elderly relatives, and now they are gone. But, Teensie's two sisters still expect her to do more, and she is rebelling. She is now 40 years old and wants a life of her own. When love finally finds her in several ways, she hardly knows how to react. This is a wonderful, heartwarming story, and I just loved it.
Muriel Logan
Modoc: The True Story of the Greatest Elephant that Ever Lived by Ralph Helfer
I could hardly put this book down. It tells the true story of the seventy year friendship between Modoc, a circus elephant, and Bram, the person who grew up with and helped to train Modoc. Their adventures together start in Germany and end up in New York after also spending some time in India. It's a great book about loyalty, friendship, and high adventure.
Elizabeth
An Invisible Thread by Laura Schroff
Maurice had never met anyone like Laura and Laura had never met anyone like Maurice. They were from two different worlds. Laura doesn't know why she stopped and turned back after Maurice asked her for some money, but she is glad she did.
Through Maurice, Laura learned about the life he and thousands of others were living on a daily basis, not a pleasant life at all. Laura was helping Maurice to live a better life at least one day a week, and it seemed to be paying off since she could see a change in him even though he had to go back to his horrible living conditions after he left her.
As well as learning about the living conditions of others, the author also gave the reader a chance to find out that her childhood/family life was not very easy.Her father was an abusive alcoholic, and her mother sat by not being able to defend herself or her children. Obviously the author's childhood and the childhood of her brothers and sisters had an impact on their entire life and on her decision to turn back and fulfill Maurice’s plea for help.
The descriptions in the book are very detailed and heartbreaking but also heartwarming. You will become a part of the lives of every character and you will feel their pain and happiness.
An Invisible Thread is the perfect title for this book. The book brought to the surface that we all have a connection to other human beings even though that connection may not be outwardly visible.
I truly enjoyed the book because of the honesty of feelings and of human kindness and human connection. This is a must read. Laura Schroff is a brave woman to reveal all this about her life, but it definitely will make you realize that no matter how small the gesture may be, we can make a difference for someone else.
Elizabeth
Moonlight on Linoleum by Terry Helwig
Welcome to the 50's. Grandma and Grandpa are taking care of the children, Mom's gone, only Dad remains. It doesn't sound like the 1950's to me, it sounds more like the way families are today.
Moonlight on Linoleum is a nostalgic trip back to a life that should have been filled with stable families, but it had two sweet girls who were left with their father and grandparents in Iowa while Mama fulfilled dreams of her own.
This is an outstanding memoir. This memoir definitely held my interest and made me feel for the children and how they had to endure their childhood as always the new kid at school and not really able to be a kid at home since they always had to do chores that would normally be left for the parents. It is hard to believe how resilient we are as children.
This sentence stuck with me: "How was it possible that moonlight on linoleum, washed with my tears, could be so achingly beautiful?" I shed and shared Terry’s tears as I read this incredible book.
Elizabeth
Daughers of Iraq by Revital Shiri-Horowitz
This is a novel about three women who were staunch believers in their families and their religion.
Daughters of Iraq allows the reader into the lives of Farida, Nao, and Violet. Their lives were shared through everyday situations, through diaries, and through memories. Each woman had a dream of her own, but they all had their family and their religion as the base of all of their dreams. You learn how each woman is different yet the same. The descriptions of the characters in terms of physical as well emotional is phenomenal, that definitely is the strong point of the novel. Shiri-Horowitz's writing is flawless.
I really enjoyed learning about each woman. You will be able to clearly visualize each one of them as their stories unfold. A few poignant pages that contained a letter from Noa's father could apply to any son or daughter and will make you do some strong introspection, it actually brought tears to my eyes. Learning about immigration from Iraq to Israel and information about the Jewish holidays and celebrations was truly educational.
The only negative for me was that I couldn't keep all the characters straight, but the author thoughtfully placed a glossary indicating which character was which and in what chapter they were introduced. She also had a dictionary with explanations of the words and expressions used throughout the book.
The book definitely held my interest, and even though the difficulty of identifying who was who was a stumbling block for me, I am rating the book a 5/5 simply because of the exceptional content and lesson learned from each of the women. I eventually did figure out the connection between everyone.
Diana Huey
Everything Is Illuminated by Jonathan Safran Foer
If you can make it through the first hundred pages, it is powerful. You might know where it's headed but it is still powerful.
Fran
Up From the Blue by Susan Henderson
A beautifully written, yet harrowing tale of a young woman who faces her own past in order to embrace her future. The story travels back and forth in time between eight-year-old Tillie and a grown-up Tillie, who has just gone into premature labor with her first child. The story weaves an account of Tillie at eight years old, growing up with a mentally ill mother. The author does a beautiful job of portraying all the dynamics that go with having a mom who is too wrapped up in her own illness to be an effective parent to a child. It catches the hopes, dreams, longings and sorrows of this child in light of all the dynamics that shapes our self concept. Beautiful, sad, hopeful and inspiring, this book was hard to put down!
Judy Rossa
Tony and Susan by Austin Wright
This book is mesmerizing.
Linda Noseworthy
Eight Days to Live by Iris Johansen
I'm re-reading the Eve Duncan series in preparation for the release of Eve, Quinn and Bonnie this year.
Emily Hicks
The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
This story is dark and magical. The writing is beautiful and poetic. Erin Morgenstern's debut novel was more than I imagined.
Jane Howland
Next To Love by Ellen Feldman
This is a story about three women who live in a small town in Massachusetts. All of the men in their lives have been sent to fight in World War II. Not all return and those that do are profoundly changed. It was interesting that the women took over mens' jobs but had to give them up when the men returned from war.
Barbara Estes-Martin
The Dovekeepers by Alice Hoffman
It took a while for me to get into this book, but once I did I have been amazed at the depth of research Ms. Hoffman must have done to recount the every day lives of the women who lived during that time. In many ways, when she recounts the struggles and hardship they endured when the Romans seized Jerusalem, I am reminded of the stories of the Holocaust. The depth of feeling and strong will that each faces would break many and does cause them heartache, but like all people when faced with the choice to live or die, they do carry on. This book has opened a new interest in Jewish history for me.
Rose Prevost
Pigeon English by Stephen Kelman
I just finished this book and the ending really got me.
I just fell in love with this little boy. This story is told through Harri's voice, an eleven-year-old who recently emigrated from Ghana, to the housing projects of London. He and his friend decide to investigate a murder.
This story is so much more than their investigation.
Harri's innocence of the threats around him touched my heart.
He said if he was in the gang, he would tell them about God and about good missions.
He really was so naive.
I found the view of inner city life, told through Harri's voice very touching, I laughed at some points, and found other parts so very sad.
I do have to say, I did not see the relevance of the pigeon,I thought it was Harri's way of talking to God?
"Mamma says giving up is a sin. It's the same as lying. It's even worse than that because it's lying to yourself."
Rose Prevost
The Last Letter From Your Lover by JoJo Moyes
I could not put this book down from the first page, and it kept me going until the last sentence!
A page-turning love story that was wonderfully written. I am sad that I have finished it.
Rose Prevost
The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
If there were more stars, I would give more! What an incredible storyteller Erin Morgenstern is.
"The finest of pleasures are always the unexpected ones" ---Tsukiko
It contains so much detail and description, without being overbearing...I loved it! I did not want the book to end. The author made me feel like I was right there in the middle of it all. I don't think I've ever read anything like this before. Such a unique story and told so well. I think enchanting is the best way to describe it! I would love to see this as a movie! I fell in love with the characters and really felt connected to them.
rhonda
Turn of Mind by Alice LaPlante
This book is beautiful, I couldn't put it down!
Valerie
A Good American by Alex George
I think every lazy American should read this book. It brought me joy, sorrow, and happiness. I am proud to be an American. The author writes--- we all came from somewhere.I Loved it!
Heather Larson
When She Woke by Hillary Jordan
This book is definitely holding my interest. The concept of "chroming" is very intriguing. I wonder if it would really work in today's society.
Donna Jo Panzardo
Lola and the Boy Next Door by Stephanie Perkins
This is a great book and sequel to Anna and the French Kiss. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
Donna Jo Panzardo
Lola and the Boy Next Door by Stephanie Perkins
This is a great book and sequel to Anna and the French Kiss. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
Mary Toelke
The Devil's Star by Jo Nesbo
Stieg Larsson who?? Jo Nesbo, in my opinion, is a better writer. This book is suspenseful, with very fleshed out characters (especially the star, Harry Hole), and holds your interest completely---it is a "can't put it down" book. This is my first Nesbo read, but not my last!
Nancy Banks
The Paris Wife by Paul McLain
This is a very interesting and enjoyable book!!! I highly recommend it! My book club is having fun reading it.
Teresa Hargett
The House on Tradd Street by Karen White
This is the first Karen White book have read. I'm looking forward to her latest book. This one kept me engaged and had a good pace.
Linda Everett
The Marriage Plot by Jeffrey Eugenides
His books don't come often but they are worth waiting for.
I didn't like it as much as Middlesex but it was still so entrancing and hard to put down.
Dan Abubakar
Act of Treason by Vince Flynn
This is my second Mitch Rapp adventure and I'm really enjoying it. I only discovered the guy a few months ago and I can't put the book down.
Priscilla Neale
The Hare with Amber Eyes by Edmund de Waal
de Waal researched for over a year the "travels" of a collection of small Japanese carved figures that his Jewish family owns. What we learn about in this book is the growth of anti-semitism during the 1930/40s and its consequences. The trail continues to the post war reconstruction of Japan. It is a truly fascinating memoir.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/feb/12/edmund-waal-life-profile-interview
Connie Tritt
Full Black by Brad Thor
Brad Thor never disappoints with his books and this one was exceptional. A plot to bring down the American government is foiled and who is behind the attacks is surprising. It was very good, but I did not like the ending. It leaves you in suspense. I highly recommend this thriller.
Sandra F.
Ringing in Murder by Kate Kingsbury
This story set in a country hotel in England at the turn of the century is not that interesting. A "been there did that." kind of book.
Sandra F.
The Drowning Man by Michael Robotham
This is an English murder mystery with a great plot and characters. I had to force myself not to read just one more chapter before getting some sleep.
Sandra F.
Every Time We Say Goodbye by Jamie Zeppa
I really enjoyed this story of a dysfunctional family set in Ontario. Canadian writers just keep getting better and better.
Mary Viox
A Storm of Swords by George RR Martin
I am just enthralled with the whole series
Song of Ice and Fire. This third book is every bit as good as the first, although I am now mourning some characters that haven't made it this far. I am at the last 200 pages of this 1,000 page book, and already have the next book ready and waiting.
Carolyn James
The Tiger's Wife by Téa Obreht
I love the mythology in this book. It grabbed me from the start.
Donna K
Iron Lake by William Kent krueger
I bought this book on my iPad because they offered it for 99 cents. I had never read anything by this author before, but I plan on reading many more. It was very good. It reminded me a little of Tony Hillerman.
JANET CECIL
The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
I absolutely love this book. I want to run away and join the circus.
Emily Varga-Comella
Steve Jobs by Walter Issacson
This book gives the reader a fascinating look at the life and career of Steve Jobs. The book is well-written and thoroughly researched.
Paula
State of Wonder by Ann Patchett
This book has a Vvery intriguing story line. Patchett is a fine writer and is able to weave in subplots with ease and grace.
Norene Wittlin
The Good Soldier by F.M. Ford
This is a crummy book, especially since it's supposed to be a classic.
David Neville
Feast Day of Fools by James Lee Burke
This book is classic James Lee Burke as he takes us back to the Desert West and Shriff Hackberry Holland. Burke has such flowing, picturesque language and amazing characters that you can't help but fall into the story. If you have read the two previous Holland books it helps but is absolutely not necessary.
David Neville
Displaced Persons by Ghita Schwarz
This is a fascinating adventure in the lives of displaced Jews after World War II. Schwarz really takes you on the emotional roller coaster of what that life was like then extends it into the future. A really good read.
David Neville
Fall of Giants by Ken Follett
Fall of Giants is book one of Follett's Century Trilogy. A masterful saga that weaves the lives of 5 families throughout the years of World War I. I fully fell into this story and, even though it was 985 pages long I didn't want it to end. I have to be patient for Book Two!
David Neville
Cathedral of the Sea by Ildefonso Falcones
This novel grabbed hold of me and wouldn't let go! Set in 14th century Barcelona, it is based around the long construction of a real cathedral. The writing is superb, the location is fascinating, but the characters get up and jump off of the page. Spellbinding, informative and extremely interesting. Highly recommended!
Linda Johnson
The Last Precinct by Patricia Cornwell
This book is basically a continuation of the previous Scarpetta mystery "Black Notice". Scarpetta is surprised to discover that investigations are not verifying the murders by Loup Garou that Scarpetta helped solve when she escaped an attack by him. She is the one being investigated and most of her sphere knows it before she realizes.
A lot of this book's development happens through narration rather than action.I felt as if it would never end. The key to solving the mystery of Scarpetta's investigation comes out in a way that had me wondering, "Why bring this in this late in the book?"
Jim in Prescott
Buried Prey by John Sandford
This is another Lucas Davenport mystery. This one takes a departure from the usual and includes a flashback to a case at the beginning of Lucas' career. The reader learns about the origins of most of the current characters in the Lucas Davenport series. One of the better Sandford books.
Cheryl S.
The Golden Prince by Rebecca Dean
This is an interesting work of fiction about Price Edward VIII of England. Destined for the throne of England, he falls for a commoner and must choose between her and the crown.
Sonia Chopra
The Litigators by John Grisham
This is a riveting read, I can barely put the book down for breaks. It's by legal eagle Grisham and the twists and turns in the legal motions and the plot are a real crowd pleaser. I am enjoying this book.
June
The Paris Wife by Paula McLain
This is an interesting story about the life of Ernest Hemingway told by his wife Hadley. This book takes you back to the time of Hemingway's greatest works. It shows you the life they had and takes you into the soul of each character. It's a great read.
Bonnie Gluhanich
The Silent Girl by Tess Gerritsen
You could do much worse if you're looking for a quick, suspenseful read. A bonus is that in these "Rizzoli & Isles" novels you can picture the TV characters in the lead roles as you read. It's a page-turner.
Brady B.
Here We Go Again by Betty White
This book came out in 1995, but was reissued and updated in 2010. Betty White got into television the very beginning and grew with the industry.
This is an fun-to-read book that highlights a life that just "fell into place," and is still boiling with vigor and appreciation.
Becky
The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh
This is a great read! It's a book that will stay with you forever. Great characters and great story. If you love flowers this one will interest you.
Yvonne
Little Black Dress by Susan McBride
This is a neat book. The story was spellbinding and you held on until the last word. I don't know what I expected, but it was over the moon!! I highly recommend it.
Dianna D
The Night Strangers by Chris Bohjalian
This ghost story is actually pretty good and I enjoy the author's work. It was a little slow in some parts and I thought the book could have been shorter.
Tanya B.
Vengeance by A.J. Scudiere
The publisher sent me a copy of Vengeance to read and review. I was not familiar with the author and was glad to be given a chance to read one of his books. Vengeance starts out like other books I have read where there is a victim who is getting even for a past injustice. What makes this book different is that while the first character is getting even she comes across another person doing the same thing that she is doing. In fact they end up at the same place at exactly the same time to do the same job. Neither one of them knows what to make of the situation. They eventually join forces to enact revenge on the mafia that ruined both of their lives. I recommend reading Vengeance if you want to read a new twist on an old storyline. I look forward to reading more books by this author and I hope other readers will give him a try as well.
Marsha
The Sixth Man by David Baldacci
Sean King and Michelle Maxwell are drawn into a shocking case in The Sixth Man. National security forces are not what they should be and a Federal Suspect is being held in a Supermax Federal prison under suspicious accusations. Sean's former professor has asked for their help and soon the bodies are dropping. This book is thrilling, exciting, threatening, and had wondering whom to trust.
Jodi Willis
Cross Currents by John Shors
John Shors is one of my favorite authors, and he delivers once again with his new novel, Cross Currents. All his books are set in exotic destinations around the world, and Cross Currents takes place on a beautiful island off the coast of Thailand. The novel is very much character driven, and features a memorable cast of Thai and American characters. The reader falls in love with these characters, who are on the island in the days leading up to the tsunami of 2004. This is a very gripping, powerful, and ultimately triumphant book. I loved it.
James Webb
Northwest Angle by William Kent Krueger
Northwest Angle is the latest in the Cork O'Conner series. It did not disappoint.
Liz D.
Maine by J. Courtney Sullivan
A great down-to-earth read. It takes places in many of the towns surrounding my home.
Jeanne W.
The House of Six Doors by Patricia Selbert
I loved everything about this book and I couldn't put it down from the moment I picked it up. It's a coming-of-age story about a young girl named Serena who immigrates with her mother and sister to California from the Caribbean Island of Curacao. The author gives such a beautiful description of each and every step of Serena's journey. You can't help but connect with the main character. I highly recommend this book to any reader who enjoys well written literature with an engaging story line.
Christina A.
The Passage by Justin Cronin
This book has had me hooked since page one.
Neena
The Coroner's Lunch by Colin Cotterill
This is an offbeat political satire set in the Republic of Laos. It has an element of mystery to it and lots of humor.
Debbie M
Scarpetta by Patricia Cornwell
The story line is interesting; it's about dwarfish people and their illnesses and problems. The situation with Lucy, Kay, and Pete reuniting is a little awkward. The study facility where Benton works is disturbing to me, in that dangerous criminals are examined and not really incarcerated. I also feel that Cornwell dwells too much on Lucy's sexual preference. I still enjoy reading Cornwell's novels.
Suzanne Gonneville
The Year We Left Home by Jean Thompson
This was another can't-put-down book. The characters lived with me for the two days it took me to read the book, then for a few days thereafter. Jean Thompson's writing seems so smooth and flows so easily. Her descriptions of circumstances were lovely.
Suzanne Gonneville
The Worst Hard Time by Timothy Egan
This was an excellent book; a true story about the the dust storms of the plains during the Depression. Timothy Egan carries a person around the Dust Bowl, showing the reader the courage of those who stayed to endure the terrific tragedy affecting their fields and homes. I learned much from the book, much more than I gleaned from The Grapes of Wrath and other stories.
Bonnie Gluhanich
The Silent Girl by Tess Gerritsen
I was lucky enough to win an autographed copy of this terrific mystery. It's a Rizzoli & Isles story, so it's easy to picture the main characters as they appear in the TV series. Best of all, it keeps you guessing to the end and is an exciting read.
DJR Melvin
The Stranger's Child by Alan Hollinghurst
Great description of several time periods, but the characters will be remembered only for their annoyance factor.
Jared Thomson
Alice In Verse: The Lost Rhymes Of Wonderland by JT Holden
Excellent and quick read! This book is a throwback to the truly lost art of rhyming poetry and is a dark and intriguing take on the aftermath of Alice's first trip down the rabbit hole and her subsequent return. Poems such as The Walrus and The Carpenter Head Back, answers the question of, what ever did become of the walrus and the carpenter after their encounter with the oysters. The illustrations done by Andrew Johnson add to the "dark" theme. I highly recommend this book, but only if you're a true Alice fan.
Marge Stembel
Once Upon a Time There Was You by Elizabeth Berg
This story, about a fractured family, is deftly told by Berg. The divorced Mom and Dad, and their 18-year old daughter's personalities are very well developed as they work through a frightening incident. It's a great read!
Marge Stembel
When She Woke by Hillary Jordan
This a a thought-provoking, well-written, futuristic story that gives us a lot to think about. Hannah, the protagonist, raised in a conservative Christian home, learns that not all citizens have her beliefs as she needs to rely on herself after committing a "crime." My thoughts terrify me: could our society have such a relapse?
Marge Stembel
Running Scared by Lisa Jackson
There is a lot of action in this suspense novel. There's a mother protecting her child and a father looking for a son he never knew he had. Light, interesting reading.
Dianne
Burnt Mountain by Anne Rivers Siddon
Always enjoy her books --- I look forward to each new story. I was very taken with the story-line and the characters; I really wanted to see what happened to each. However, that being said, this is not one of her best books.
Linda Johnson
The Beekeeper's Lament by Hannah Nordhaus
A fascinating book about beekeepers and their problems, which range from Colony Collapse Disorder, to hivenapping to honey laundering. I don't believe that any of us truly realize how vital bees are to our food chain.
Well told without using 20-syllable words to get her points across.
Sharron
Still Missing by Chevy Stevens
Story of realtor who gets kidnapped, raped, and held captive and how this event impacts everyone, especially her. Frightening and disturbing.
