This contest period's winners were Cheryl S., Helen D., Jodie, Robin F. and Sylvie K., who each received a copy of FLIGHT BEHAVIOR by Barbara Kingsolver, LOOKING FOR YESTERDAY: A Sharon McCone Mystery by Marcia Muller and THE RACKETEER by John Grisham.
Natalie Holmgren
Changing Habits by Debbie Macomber
This is actually a very informative book as well as weaving in great characters, situations, personal growth, trials, frustrations, etc. My mother in law's friend circle has circulated this book around themselves and I snagged it from the loop ... wish it were mine!
Wendy Catalano
Consent To Love by Abby Wood
The story of Kane and Ana is a hot and steamy Western Contemporary Erotic Romance.
This novella deals with the concepts of interracial romance and what happens when a white woman and a Native American man come together in a small town.
The author describes Native American culture that was quite interesting.
Consent To Love is about finding the right person and not letting go.
Diane Pollock
Cold Light by Jenn Ashworth
Intriguing tale from interesting perspective!
Bonnie_T
Last Kiss by Luanne Rice
One in the Hubbard's Point series, the books are loosely tied together with some overlapping characters and can be read independently. Warm stories where tragedy happens but good wins out in the end.
Chris Rhea
Daughters of the Witching Hill by Mary Sharratt
A fascinating look into a troubled time; Ms Sharratt brings history to life; it's a real page-turner.
Janice Baly
The End of Your Life Book Club by Will Schwalbe
This touching book recounts the time the author and his mother spent reading and discussing books while she was dying from pancreatic cancer. It is also the story of their relationship and the remarkable life his mother lived.
robin fuller
Severe Clear by Stuart Woods
He's one of my favorite authors and this was a fun and fast read.
Shirley Fentz
The Tower, the Zoo, and the Tortoise by Julia Stuart
This is as much fun as an English Pub with a cast of funny, original characters who inhabit the Tower of London along with the Beefeaters who are the caretakers. I haven't laughed so hard in many a book and I love unique individuals who I meet along the way.
Reva Wamsley
Relic by Douglas Preston & Lincoln Child
This is the first book I've read by these authors but would like to read more. I did see this movie years ago but had forgotten most of it. Something is killing people in the museum just before the opening of a new exhibit that is supposed to draw a lot of guests. The museum director wants to go ahead with the opening even though he has been advised not to. Margo Green, a researcher is trying to find out who or what is doing the killing. It seems to lead back to a shipment that had been received from the Amazon several years before.
Ann Hill
Kill Shot by Vince Flynn
Very good story about Mitch Rabb and his early years working for the CIA.
Lois Lilling
The Little Giant of Aberdeen County by Tiffany Baker
A wonderful story of a young woman born with a problem of the pituitary gland and grew larger and larger. The life she makes for herself is more than interesting and then she finds a quilt which gives her answers in medicine as practiced long ago.
michele c
Sleep No More by Iris Johansen
I wasn't sure there would be any more Eve Duncan novels, but this one is quite a surprise.
michele c
The Bone Bed by Patricia Cornwell
Finally!!!! A much better scarpetta novel than we have seen recently.
myrna lippman
May We Be Forgiven by A. M. Homes
This is a novel about a dysfunctional family that disintegrates and then reestablishes itself into a better and more meaningful unit. It's witty but also very moving. Unfortunately it's overwritten and could have been trimmed.
Gina
Hunger Point by Jillian Medoff
Uneven book. . . funny, sad, long periods of whining, abrupt ending.
Story is about a family's reactions to a daughter suffering from anorexia.
The narrator is her sister who has her own angst about life and love.
Dian Boysen
Mr. Churchill's Secretary by Susan Elia MacNeal
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The characters were developed. You felt you knew them. Plus with the back drop of WWII ti gave you some idea of what it was like during that time in England.
Linda Scherr
The Light Between Oceans by M.L.Stedman
What would you do if you had suffered from 3 miscarriages and found a baby that had washed ashore with her dead father in a dinghy? You and your husband live alone on a remote island, who would be the wiser if you just kept her? This is the choice that Tom and Izzy must face and the dire consequences that befall them due to their choice.
This is a beautifully written book that keeps you turning the pages to see what happens next. A great book to discuss with so many issues facing the main characters. It's a must read!
Mary Rodriguez
Unconscionable by William Manchee
A good romantic mystery read - a Rich Coleman novel.
cindy Parry
A New Song by Jan Karon
Love it!
Debbie Smith
Zoo by James Patterson
Animals are attacking humans. Interesting concept and a good quick read.
Joyce Delaney
Trust Your Eyes by Linwood Barclay
Thomas, a schizophrenic, spends his days isolated from the world and obsessing over maps on his computer. He "sees" what he interprets as a murder, and he and his disbelieving brother Ray are drawn into a cycle of danger and death. I first thought that the premise for this book was too far out, but once I accepted it, I enjoyed it for its fast pace and twist-and-turn plot.
Jean M
The Other Daughter by Lisa Gardner
This is a very suspenseful book with several twists and turns. It combines mystery, murder and romantic suspense.
Dorothy Weinberg
Smart on the Inside by Eileen Gold Kushner and Kathy Young
Smart On The Inside -- A True Story About Succeeding In Spite of Learning Disabilities tells of Eileen Gold Kushner’s comeback story from academic problems due to learning disabilities to success as owner of three Chicago area McDonald’s restaurants. Eileen was not diagnosed with learning disabilities until she was 39 years old. Kathy Young, a special education teacher, interviewed her to write the book as a first person account of Kushner’s inspirational life story.
The printed book can be purchased on Amazon.com and the digital book is available through Kindle, iBooks, and BarnesandNoble.com’s Nook.
Minal
Insurgent by Veronica Roth
I really loved this book!! It is the second book of the series so far. The first one was divergent. Basically there's five factions or groups. The erudite: the intelligent,The candor: the honest, the amity: the peaceful,the dauntless: the brave, and the abnegation: the selfless. This girl named Beatrice is born an abnegation, a selfless. When she turns 16 she gets to choose which faction she wants to go to. Her choice shocks her family, her friends, and even herself. But, she's in for major surprises in her new faction.
Jean M
A Falling Knife by Judith Deborah
Ex-detective Evan Adair has a gift for investigating. He is burned out after twenty-three years at the NYPD and a devastating private loss,and he wants no part of another investigation. But an old colleague comes calling with a tantalizing riddle. A young man Wall Street wizard with everything to live for has taken a bizarre public dive from an opera balcony. Was the fall his own idea? As it turns out, his injuries weren't enough to kill him. So how -- and why -- did he die? Soon there is another death, this one a vicious knife attack. The dual investigation draws Adair in and he finds secrets with long histories. Here come the twists and turns in this well-written book.
Sue Wilker
Most Talkative by Andy Cohen
A very funny, loving book.
Janice Hoaglin
Death of an Artist by Kate Wilhelm
I love Kate Wilhelm's stories; the characters she creates lead interesting complex lives, and her plots are always well developed and tight. I also really enjoy how she creates a sense of place, this time on the Oregon coast, that lends atmosphere to all her work. This one is a stand-alone, that is a different kind of mystery, as both the victim and the perpetrator are known early on, and yet it still weaves a story that keeps the reader engaged and involved to the end.
Jean M
Mad River by John Sandford
This is a Virgil Flowers book, but the Davenport character appears often enough to scratch that itch. Virgil must catch some rampaging killers. This book has the usual twists and turns that we expect from Sandford, but that does not detract. It is a very good read.
Rhonda Lomazow
the good house by Anne Leary
Wonderful. The book will make you laugh and at times break your heart.
Jean M
The Casual Vacancy by J K Rowling
I could not give this one very many stars in rating. It just is not very exciting nor interesting. I almost quit reading it at about page 100 but it is very difficult for me not to read through to the end so I soldiered on through. I just can't recommend it and was just very sorry about it.
Sylvie Kurtz
The Other Woman by Hank Phillippi Ryan
Stayed up too late last night reading. Can't wait to see how it all comes together!
Daryl Evangelista
The Witness by Nora Roberts
Love how the main character has created a new life.
Felicia
Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen
Our book club is reading Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen. All but one if us are Janeites,
we are so excited to have a Austen rookie. We hope she will come to love Jane like the rest of us. :)
Jean M
The Third Victim by Lisa Gardner
An unspeakable act has ripped apart the idyllic town of Bakersville, Oregon. A boy has confessed to the horrific crime, but is he really guilty? Officer Rainie Conner, leading her first homicide investigation, is at the center of the controversy. It's threatening to expose her secrets. With the help of FBI profiler Pierce Quincy, Rainie comes closer to a deadly truth than she can imagine. Because out there in the shadows, a man watches her and he knows her secrets. This book is well-written suspense. The end may be a bit disappointing.
Joann Dees
The Geneva Trap by Stella Rimington
Liz Carlyle becomes real and tackles problems in a realistic way. The plot kept me reading late into the night.
Phyllis Relyea
The Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman
I am 1/3 through and since I am from Michigan, which has more lighthouses than any other state, I am a "Lighthouse Loonie," I am enjoying the novel very much. The setting is on Janus Island between the Pacific and Indian Oceans.
Audrey Cherry
Dancing Dogs by John Katz
Confessing here to buying a book for the cover. In this book Katz reminds us of the many joys and sorrows that come from sharing our lives with animals. I just loved it.
shelly itkin
Wherever I Wind Up by R. A. Dickey
R. A. Dickey is a famous pitcher for the New York Mets. He is a knuckle baller, which is very unique. Although that in itself is something astonishing, this book is more then about sports.
Robert Allen Dickey is a man who has a story to tell and it is about his life and the secrets he has kept even from his wife. He was abused as a child and had not told his wife which almost lead to a divorce. He has counted on his faith to get him thru the hard times, and you will read about many, but it is an emotional and touching story that had to be told.
Andrea Lapsley
The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry by Rachel Joyce
I picked up this book at BookExpo and put it in a stack of "must reads." I just returned from South Africa where I visited Exclusive Books and there on the wall was a photo of this book and it was listed as one of their 5 Must Reads. I knew I had to put the book at the top of my list when I returned home. This did not disappoint. It is a novel of profound insight with characters that you will relate to. It asks such simple questions as "Can we begin to live again? Is there hope?" It is an extraordinary journey on every page and step of Harold's walk.
Jeane Campbell
Left Neglected by Lisa Genova
Loved "Still Alice", so I was glad to be able to listen to the audio of this book. I almost gave up on this book. The "dreams" got me lost and disconnected from the story. It dragged for me. Her "wonderful" career... sounds awful. And her "beautiful family"..she spends, what, maybe an hour a day with them, as she is so involved with her 80 hour a week job.
Helen Duncan
West With the Night by Beryl Markham
What a gem! Ernest Hemingway's hype about this book is so on the mark. It is a wonderful collection of vignettes from Ms. Markham's life and an Africa that no longer exists. And so beautifully written. I don't know how I missed this book but am so glad finally to have read it. Highly recommended.
C. Edwards
The First Gardener by Denise Hildreth Jones
This book is very compelling and is such a great read at this time - written about a governor and his family life. With the upcoming USA elections I chose this book when it was a free download for Kindle. As the wife struggles through grief I was able to relate to her character because of a family situation in my life. The Lord used lessons she experienced to help me. And this from Christian fiction! GOD bless Ms. Jones! She's an excellent writer and I was enthralled with the story all the way through.
Becky
The Secret Holocaust Diaries by Nonna Bannister
This elderly survivor's story was kept a secret from everyone, even her family members, for decades. She finally reveals the secrets of her writings to her husband and this memoir introduces us to a life of unrealized luxury in Russia and a view of the concentration camps.
Marie-Louise Molloy
Murder by Mocha by Cleo Coyle
Love this series ~ COFFEE and books ~ my favorite things!
Mel Isaacson
The Light Between Oceans by M L Steadman
A captivating, heartbreaking, well written story that will just suck you right in.
Elaine McIntosh
The Vanishing Point by Val McDermid
This is a terrific story that begins with a child being kidnapped from an American airport security point while the caregiver watches as she is being searched in the security box. Much of the story is told in a flashback mode; that does not detract from the suspense. The culminating act is relatively shocking, but believable. I recently heard Ms. McDermid at a book reading and signing in which she tells that she conceived this story while at the airport with her son ...when she asked the question "What if?"
Becky
Sweet Ginger Poison by Robert Burton Robinson
This is called a short-novel mystery and was a good, quick read. It is the first of a series featuring baker Ginger Lightley who becomes involved in a murder... she is a major suspect of the new, young police chief, so she inserts herself into the investigation. A good comparison that her friends make is to Jessica Fletcher, so fans of that TV series may enjoy this light read.
Ann Golobic
Body of Lies by Iris Johansen
The book starts with a SHOCKER!
Caren Haines
Silently Seizing by Caren Haines, R.N.
Incredibly well written, backed up by the latest research and endorsed by many fine physicians, Caren is helping people diagnosed with Autism and their families to understand that there are many treatable components of Autism, particularly sub-clinical seizures. Some children ONLY have an underlying, difficult-to-recognize seizure disorder that once treated , produces astounding results. A MUST READ!!!!
Betty Jo Harris
Monkey Mind by Daniel Smith
A great memoir about anxiety. For those of us who have normal anxious moments, this book really gives a true picture of someone with an anxiety that runs his life. I have found this book to be of great comfort because someone I know suffers from extreme anxiety.
Linda Saveland
The Fallen Angel by Daniel Silva
Each Gabriel Allon novel is better than the last. This one was a fascinating, fast-paced, tension-filled treat. It leaves you waiting breathlessly for the next one.
Joanne McIntyre
Emily Alone by Stewart O'Nan
A lovely book, which is a sequel to O'Nan's "Wish You Were Here." Ladies of my generation will certainly recognize thoughts, feelings and family situations that are very familiar to us.
Rosemary Sobczak
Delusion in Death by J.D. Robb
Another great addition to the series. Love Eve and Roarke!!!
Judy Sheriff
Love Letters from Ladybug Farm by Donna Ball
A relaxing, enjoyable series.
Jean Adler
Top Producer by Norb Vonnegut
This is the first book of his that I've read. I like it a lot and immediately ordered 'The Gods of Greenwich' by Norb.
Jan Atkins
The Queen's Vow by C.W. Gortner
If you like Phillipa Gregory's historical novels, you will like this story of Queen Isabella of Spain who sent Columbus on his ships to the New World. Combining good writing and good research, the author tells a good story about a historical figure many Americans have heard of but really know little about. I would recommend it.
Patrick Murphy
The Crowded Grave by Martin Walker
This is the best, in my opinion, of the Inspector Bruno stories set in a small French town. The author does a wonderful job in creating the atmosphere, and in developing the characters. It helps that the book is quite funny in places. Of course, this book like the others, is totally concerned with eating and the pleasures of a fine meal. Highly recommended.
Thomas Barrington
Lethal by Sandra Brown
I enjoyed reading this book and thought it was very good. It was fast-paced and it turned out to be
different then what you thought it would be. It is a highly recommended read.
sandy haber
One Mountain Away by Emilie Richards
A story about a middle-aged woman who has managed to antagonize most of the people in her life, by thinking she knew what they should do with theirs. Only now she's terminally ill and has decided it's time to make up for all of those mistakes. She has a daughter with an ill child and wants to make up with the former and get to know the latter, an ex-husband who is totally surprised and possible amused by her 'turnaround', and now a pregnant young woman and a female minister who have been instrumental in her quest.
Robert E. Runyon
The Panther by Nelson DeMille
Excellent so far. I purchased the book the day it came out and I am fully enjoying reading it. I enjoy John Corey's humorous personal comments throughout the book. I have found this to be like the The Lion and if you like the John Corey and Kate Mayfield characters you will love this book. A great addition to the series, can't wait for the next one.
Gwendolyn Turner
Delusion In Death by JD Robb
A really good romantic suspense novel set into the future. Part of the In Death series. There is a mass murderer on the loose and really great detective work is needed by the team. The action flows swirly, there is a strong sense of urgency, because more will die.
gwendolyn turner
Don't Cry For Me by Sharon Sala
I loved this romantic suspense novel about two veterans suffering from PTSD. I find it gave me insight into some of the difficulties our wounded heroes are facing. The story is engrossing and has multiple characters and points of view that are skillfully wound together to produce a terrific novel that I will share and read over again.
gretchen kempff
The Gorilla Man and the Empress of Steak by Randy Fertel
Local (New Orleans) book about the founder of Ruth's Chris Steak House. Interesting facts about New Orleans and the Fertel family. Probably not too enticing for anyone not from the area.
Marsha
Live by Night by Dennis Lehane
No one writes gritty novels full of wisdom, love, thrills, family entanglements, and excitement like Lehane. This one is about prohibition, speakeasies, gangsters and corrupt cops but more than that it is a fascinating novel that is hard to put down. You will be entranced. Beautifully written.
Raylene Wauda
The Litigators by John Grisham
I haven't begun to read this book yet, but I love court room dramas.
Suzanne Gonneville
The Queen’s Vow by C. W. Cortner
This novel of Queen Isabella of Castile, Spain is set in the 1400s. It is told in the first person and follows her life from early childhood. It is a fascinating account of the Spanish queen who sponsored Columbus as he searched the seas; although this was only a small part of her royal life. There is political intrigue, high emotions, battles, and much love between her and her husband King Fernando. It is a great story of a queen battling the severity of the Moors in Granada as well as the Spanish Inquisition. This is a book I’d read again. I loved the writing style.
Linda Harrison
One Breath Away by Heather Gudenkauf
A good book about a gunman holding hostages at a school. A grandfather rushes to the school searching for his grandchildren as their mother is in a burn unit at a hospital. As neighbors rush to the school, all come together in their concern for the children.
Linda Harrison
Maria's Trail by John Horst
This is the prequel to the Mule Tamer series and gives you a background on Chica and her travels around the Mexican desert. A great story.
Linda Harrison
NYPD Red by James Patterson and Marshall Karp
This book will keep your interest from page one and I hope there will be more novels about the NYPD Red unit. Great story and characters.
Rosemary Simm
Life's Rough Roads by Carol Jones
This is a story of two separate people. Ann joins a convent to become a nun for all the wrong reasons and doubts her vocation through thirty-five years of her life. Albert has an active life, joining the military, becoming a school teacher and during that course has a bad mental break-down. Once the two meet in their later years of life, they find a true happiness that is endearing and well-conceived. I wish the book would have been a chapter or two longer because I didn't want it to end. As a true story, the ending is up to date with pictures and dates. Carol Jones put a lot of facts that gave room for great discussions. An author I want to watch.
Suzanne Gonneville
Paris 1919 by Margaret MacMillan
This is a long, long book. It is about the six months in 1919 after WWI when President Woodrow Wilson, British Prime Minister David Lloyd George and French Premier Georges Clemenceau met in Paris to form a lasting peace. This narrative history shows how historic mistakes can change the future problems of nations. And how peace can’t come from diplomatic meetings and discussions but only from the enthusiasm and wishes of the citizens. It took me a time to read, but by the end I found out about the history, of which I had no realization. It is an interesting book.
Linda Harrison
Micro by Michael Crichton and Richard Preston
This thriller was started by Crichton and finished by Preston upon the death of Crichton. The science of nanotechnology and development of nanobots were used for both good and evil by a man obsessed with his own power.
Linda Harrison
Deep Dish by Mary Kay Andrews
A funny book about two chefs who are vying for a national slot on the cooking channel.
Linda Harrison
The Jefferson Key by Steve Berry
A far-fetched plot concerning the constitution and modern-day pirates. There were too many characters involved and it was difficult trying to remember who was who.
Linda Harrison
Chasing Fire by Nora Roberts
A good book about the firefighters from Missoula, Montana and what they go through during the fire season. Known as smoke jumpers, this brave group parachutes into a fire zone to fight the fire. When their gear is being sabotaged, everyone is suspect. Until the guilty person is caught, no one is safe.
Linda Harrison
You Don’t Want to Know by Lisa Jackson
It took a good part of the book for the suspense to really kick in. The main character seemed too meek and submissive to really like her. Sometimes you wanted to tell her to snap out of it. Although I love Lisa Jackson’s books, this one was not one of her best.
Linda Harrison
Twisted by Laura Griffin
This was the first book by Laura Griffin that I’ve read and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The plot was well-thought-out involving the abduction of joggers, and a secondary plot involving the reaction between a local female detective and an FBI agent.
Suzanne Gonneville
A Reliable Wife by Robert Goolrick
A Reliable Wife leaves much unanswered. Many things happen and the logic with the decisions made on these plans by the characters create such a frustration while reading that I wanted to slam the book down and forget it. But I didn’t—and finished—still with a lot of questions. The basic premise of the plot may have its theories, but I couldn’t agree with them. A crazy book.
Sharon Strickland
The Last Knight by Mercedes Lackey
If you love fairy tales this is the book for you. There is a princess in peril, an evil queen, magicians, and a fairy godmother. You will love how they weave the "Tradition" into the story and will make you wonder if real life is guided by these unseen forces. The entire "Five Hundred Kingdoms" series is very well-written.
Nancy Lephart
Imperfect Justice by Jeff Ashton and Lisa Pulitzer
Very engaging book regarding the Casey Anthony trial. There was a lot of information behind the scenes that was disclosed in the book. I admired Ashton for not feeling bitter about the outcome of the jury decision.
John Warner
The Winter Ghosts by Kate Mosse
Freddie Watson was a child when he lost his older brother in Southern France during WWI. Unable to move through his grief after several years, he travels to Southern France to visit the places that his brother may have visited before his death in battle. During a winter storm in the French Pyrenees, he wrecks his car and walks to a nearby village for assistance. The next day, he meets Fabrissa, a young woman who has had her own losses. The two are separated after each share their respective stories and Fabrissa leaves Freddie with one plea--to find her.
Barbara Goettler
Low Pressure by Sandra Brown
Just started reading this new one by Miss Brown and I'm finding it hard to put down! But there are other things I must do also, besides read. I have read all of Sandra Brown's books and I love em all!
Ginny R, Horton
Into the Darkest Corner by Elizabeth Haynes
This is a story of a woman who suffered tremendous abuse from her husband, and although he was sent to prison, she developed an extreme case of OCD. Each chapter goes from her experience with her husband during that time to the present day while she establishes a relationship with her psychologist neighbor. As she tries to combat the OCD, she discovers that her ex-husband has been released from prison. I'm not sure how this is going to turn out but I can't wait to find out.
Susan Currant
Calico Joe by John Grisham
A story about what baseball use to be. The thrill of watching a rookie have a great first season, and of the jealousy of some of the players in the league.
rochelle stempler
The Vanishing Point by Val McDermid
A stand-alone. McDermid knows how to draw you into her characters.
Sherrill Boggs
Michael Vey by Richard Paul Evans
This book is is one of the most original thrillers I've read for a while. It appeals to young adults just as much as their parents.
Carroll Savage
Mrs. Kennedy and Me by Lisa McCubbin and Clint Hill
Enjoying reading this account of the relationship of Mrs. Kennedy and her Secret Service body guard, Clint Hill. You get a personal behind-the-scenes perspective of her White House years.
Flo Lindsrron
The Rembrant Affair by Daniel Silva
I did not enjoy it. There were too many characters and not enough story to keep your
interest. This is for my book club this month and I hope there is enough for a discussion.
Jeanie Deem
Defending Jacob by William Landay
This book generated the most comment and discussion of any book at our book club that we read the past year. Not only was it very suspenseful, everyone thought about it for awhile after we finished it. The ending was shocking.
Lynn Jarrett
The Bone Bed by Patricia Cornwell
I gave this book 4 out of 5 stars only because I have just started it. Even thought I have completed only a few chapters, I know Dr. Kay Scarpetta will not let me down. In the beginning, it appears as though Dr. Scarpetta may be showing signs of paranoia, particularly when she thinks her niece starts acting weird. I look forward to this next adventure.
Coral Harrison
Red Dog by Louis De Bernieres
A small book of only 115 pages, but they pack a wallop. Red Dog is an Australian red Cloud Kelpie, a sheepdog known for its energy and cleverness. They call him The Traveler. He eats alot anywhere he can make friends. It is the story of his life. He is a very revered Australian. Red Dog was born in 1971 and died on November 20th, 1979. The stories in this book were based on what really happened to him.
Tessa BC
A Little Princess by Frances Hodgson Burnett
Book on CD narrated by Justine Eyre. A lovely children's story of a rich little girl who has an inner strength that unnerves the adults around her, but which sees her (and her friends) through adversity. Somewhat dated for today's audience.
Linda
The Good Earth by Pearl Buck
I read this in high school, and am surprised to find I really like it again, many years later!
Rose Turner
Life of Pi by Yann Martel
This is a book of fantasy. It is a selection for our book club for the month of November. I would not have read it otherwise. The imagination of the author is fantastic and I suppose if I liked the book I would have given it five stars. Good information about zoo animals and sea life. Pi is shipwrecked and spends over 200 days in a lifeboat with a tiger. Pi must keep the tiger alive by keeping him fed with food from the sea so that the tiger will not devour him.
Judy O.
The Lost Wife by Alyson Richman
Josef and Lenka fall in love and marry in prewar Prague. They spend only days together in their new married life when Germany storms in to the country; and because they are Jews, the couple must flee. They become separated and each one thinks that the other has died. We follow their widely divergent lifestyles for decades, until they finally meet again under coincidental circumstances. This is a heartwarming but often disturbing look at WWII under Hitler.
Cathy Friedberg
Clara and Mr. Tiffany by Susan Vreeland
My book club just finished reading this historical novel about the Tiffany Glass Company in the early 1900s. Clara was one of the designers of the Tiffany lamps, and she was never given the credit she deserved. Louis Tiffany was the only glass maker who hired women as designers at the time. We all enjoyed the book, and it provided much discussion about the lives of artists and women during that period of time.
Cheryl Stillwell
Looking For Yesterday by Maricia Muller
I am really looking forward to reading this.
Cheryl Stillwell
Lookong For Yesterday by Maricia Muller
I am really looking forward to reading this.
Karen Catignani
The House of Silk by Anthony Horowitz
One of the best Sherlock Holmes novels, if you like them written in the style of Arthur Conan Doyle.
Dorothy Flood
Gypped, A Regan Reilly Mystery by Carol Higgins Clark
Don't waste your time.
Anne Joyce
A Wanted man by Lee Child
JACK REACHER! What can one say about the coolest anti-hero in print? Every book a page turner, every story a winner. This is the kind of guy you want as your pal. This is the kind of guy who only needs a toothbrush in his back pocket and he is good to go, anywhere. Do yourself a favor and if you have not already, stick out your thumb and get ready for a "Reacher" ride!
Sab Edwards
What the Dead Know by Laura Lippman
This book kept me guessing, was not boring and I enjoyed it and didn't find that it lagged at all. It's a mystery book (cold case file), and the characters are well-written.
Sonia Grgas
Joseph Anton by Salman Rushdie
I am very much enjoying his writing style, but am not enjoying the constant litany of names that keep popping in and out of the narrative. I would recommend the book to those who have already read and loved his other books, this is not the place to start reading Rushdie.
Francisca E B
'Tis: A memoir by Frank McCourt
An okay follow-up to Angela's Ashes. Pales in comparison, though there are moments when it's inspiring.
Renee' Booker
High on Arrival by Mackenzie Phillips
A book about a woman who was a famous actor with popular parents and should have it made, but drugs took over from birth.
Sharon Elliott-Fox
The Casual Vacancy by J.K. Rowling
A sorry, sad, depressing book. No likeable characters that I have found so far. Everyone seems to have low-to-no morals or values that uplift and sustain a community. All seem so mean-spirited, unhappy, vengeful. Don't know that I can finish it.
Phyllis Holt
The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry by Rachel Joyce
This book opens many channels of encouragement for ways to revive relationships with those we live with and encounter daily. It shows it is never too late to rectify past mistakes and omissions. It is an inspiration to people of all ages.and nationalities.
Sandy McCullough
Back of Beyond by C.J. Box
A pretty good story. First time I have read anything by this author and I really like him. I plan on checking out some more. Thanks to my friend for recommending it.
Dawn Byers
The Conviction by Robert Dugoni
This book is a page turner. It was scary , and heart stopping, but brought me to tears at the end when justice prevailed. This was a great read - I can't wait for his next book.
Dawn Byers
They Disappeared by Rick Mofina
I was worried with the picture on the front of the book that this would be a struggle to read, but I'm so glad I read it. What a quick read! The story moved right along --- so interesting --- it is a must read.
Marie Ledin
Digital Winter by Mark Hitchcock, Alton Gansky
Pretty accurately describes how dependent we are on electronics. A great story involving computer espionage --- is it man or another evil? --- as well as those who believe in God, those who falter, and those who don't. What is one willing to give up for money and power? Keeps your attention throughout the whole book.
Kathy Ryfa
A Pleasure to Burn by Ray Bradbury
I'm currently reading this collection of precursor stories to his 'Farhenheit 451' - very interesting perspectives!
Kathy Ryfa
The Warmth of Other Suns by Elizabeth Wilkerson
Excellent account of the migration of blacks to the North and West between the late 1800s and mid 1970s...first hand accounts and great details of how things were during this time period. I thoroughly enjoyed it, but more important, I learned a great deal!
Patricia Revzin
Trust Your Eyes by Linwood Barclay
Thriller/mystery fans are in for a story packed with lots of twists and surprises. I was hooked by the very first page until the last line on the final page. The main characters (both good and evil) are well-developed. I especially cared for the Kilbride brothers: Thomas (schizophrenic, recluse, computer geek, obsessively interested in maps) and Ray (his slightly older brother and now his caregiver since their father's death). On an Internet live cam, Thomas sees what turns out to be the murder of a woman. By connecting conversations and events described in earlier chapters, Barclay ensures that the way things improve for the good guys never seems contrived or coincidental.
Muriel Logan
The Time Keeper by Mitch Albom
I don't think I have ever read a Mitch Albom book that I didn't like. In this particular book, God punishes Father Time for trying to manage time. He is put on Earth to teach two people the true meaning of time.
Mary Bryant
Being George Washington by Glenn Beck
Brings history to life in a real way.
Heather
The Kingmaker's Daughter by Philippa Gregory
Intrigue, plotting and ruthlessness during the court of King Edward IV and his wife Elizabeth, which lead the reader on a great romp through the late 1400s in England. This is definitely not as good as some of Gregory's other books, but still very readable and enjoyable.
Rebecca Fry
The Sibyl in Her Grave by Sarah Caudwell
Love her style, characters, and storyline! Very clever and witty.
Brenda K.
In the Belly of Jonah by Sandra Brannan
I was in the mood to try a new author. This mystery was a real page-turner. I had to not think about the murder scenes too much or I would start to feel queasy. I was glad that the murderer was caught in the end. There was a true variety of characters in this book. I can't wait to get a hold of another book written by this author.
Brenda Klaassen
A Vintage Affair by Isabel Wolff
This was an interesting, but a very slow-moving, book. I enjoyed reading about the different vintage clothes. I found the story behind the "blue" coat to be very interesting and a little sad. This author did her characters up well, she only left a couple characters hanging. This story is worth the time it took to read.
Anita Nowak
Only Time Will Tell by Jeffrey Archer
This was a wonderful story that chronicles two families in England in the early 1920s. It was a real page turner, and I am now reading the second in the series. "Only Time Will Tell" leaves ends with a real cliffhanger, so there is no doubt that you have to read the next in the series.
Kathleen Phillips
Love Bomb by Lisa Zeidner
This was surprising in the best way possible. There is a "whodunit" aspect that I won't spoil, but the road to get there is full of twists and turns as well. Everyone has a secret, the characters are three dimensional, and even the "bad guys" have redeeming qualities.
Tessa BC
Austenland by Shannon Hale
A book on CD narrated by Katherine Kelgren. Really bad chick lit with cardboard characters and a ridiculous plot. Jane Austen will be turning over in her grave.
Jean V.
A Fistfull of Collars by Spencer Quinn
Another fun mystery from Spencer Quinn, as told by Chet the dog. This book will make you smile, without being too sweet. Definitely a light and entertaining read. This is the fourth in the series.
Linda Smith
Live by Night by Dennis Lehane
The sequel to Lehane's The Given Day does not disappoint. Continuing the family saga during Prohibition, Joe lives on the wrong side of the law. Starting with bank holdups which land him in prison, he joins up with gangsters who deal in alcohol, drugs and prostitution, Joe knows this lifestyle will probably result in his early death, but he thinks the power and financial rewards are worth the risk. All in all a great historical rendering of the underside of life during Prohibition.
Linda
Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet by Jamie Ford
I loved this story that goes from present time back to 1940s. It's a love story through the ages --- a great book!
Angela Satalino
Once We Were Brothers by Ronald Balson
Riveting story about two friends from Poland whose lives are ripped apart by Hitler. It's a compelling story that keeps you wanting more.
William Hamilton
Mad River by John Sandford
Lucas Davenport, Sandford's lead character in the Prey series, had better watch out. Virgil Flowers is quickly becoming a fan favorite of Sandford's readers and Mad River only highlights a reader's enjoyment of this quirky character. This time he is in the Minnesota boonies trying to catch a Bonnie and Clyde-like duo with a hanger-on that kill without any sense of conscience--family members, neighbors, and it turns out, for pay. Virgil does his best to keep the killers at bay, but the chase even challenges him. A great read.
Robin Hall
The Girl Who Fell From the Sky by Heidi Durrow
I love that each chapter of the book is told from the perspective of different characters. It is the author's debut novel, and it is very well written. It is also based on her background and a true incident that happened in Chicago. It grabs your attention right away.
Phyllis Gronewold
Spare Change by Bette Lee Crosby
Bette Lee Crosby does a great job weaving the stories of Olivia and Ethan Allen Doyle and how they come together to save each other. It's easy to read and very enjoyable.
Linda McFarland
Be Still My Soul by Joanne Bischoff
I loved this book. Lonnie Sawyer is forced into a marriage with Gideon O'Riley.....and only through time and God's unwavering love can all the wrongs in this marriage be solved. Lonnie never gives up, and by many lessons in life, things change; but its rough going for both Lonnie and Gideon. When love and God are present in our lives, miracles do and will happen. So many good lessons to be learned from this book: never give up on the ones you love, and always have God as a part of life.
Sherri Hines
Five Miles South of Peculiar by Angela Hunt
Full of Southern charm and the renewing and adapting of sibling relationships as adults.
Bonnie Belenchia
The Good Woman by Jane Porter
The Good Woman takes place in Californa wine country. It involves five sisters and their families. The setting alone is endearing --- then add the entanglement of family ties and I had myself a vacation book. I took off to the North Georgia Mtns, poured our favorite Italian wine and became so very interested in the workings of this California family. Porter spells out some heart wrenching truths of relationships, whether it's between a husband and a wife or the odd dynamics of sisters. Because I became so intimate with the family, I felt myself trying to cut each member some slack, and I'd look for their redeeming qualities... just like I do my own family. This trilogy will pick up again with book 2, "The Good Daughter".
Michael McAdam
Gorilla Beach by Nicole "Snooki" Polizzi
I cannot believe I am actually admitting to reading this book. I got it free from a giveaway. That is my excuse. The characters are all similar in that they are all extremely self-centered and all of substandard intelligence (translation: stupid - sometimes moronic). I have never seen Jersey Shore so I only know the author by reputation. The plot is also quite weak - in fact using the word plot is being very liberal... there isn't much of one. So if I don't like the characters and I don't like the story, why are parts of it so engaging? I think it is like looking at someone with Tourette's Syndrome. What you see is off-putting, but you can't look away. Yeah. Let's go with that. :)
Wendy Catalano
The Sleeping Night by Barbara Samuel
A heartwarming and at times heartbreaking story of a black boy and a white girl growing up together in 1940s Texas. Isaiah High and Angel Corey were best friends until their teens when his mom and her dad thought it best to discourage their friendship as it would be looked down upon during that time. Isaiah becomes an American soldier during World War 2 and the letters back and forth between him and Angel help them both through this horrific time while giving them hope for the future.
Upon his return to Texas, Isaiah is determined to leave again soon because the woman he loves he can never have. Both of their lives could be in danger because of it. Can they find their way to each other amidst all of the hostility and racism? Amazing!
susan spencer
15 Seconds by Andrew Gross
Fast-paced, with many twists and turns!
Julie towson
Not Young Still Restless by Jeanne Cooper
Well this book is a guilty pleasure for me. It's author is the doyenne of daytime soap, Jeanne Cooper alias Catherine Chancellor of The Young and the Restless. It's a rollicking good-time read about this marvelous daytime star who started out as a movie actress and raised three children and had a no good cheat for a husband. She has a great sense of humor about her life (she's in her eighties now) and I'm really enjoying this.
Bonnie
My New American Life by Francine Prose
I read this for my book group. I'm not sure who chose it but I don't think I'll be thanking them. It was an average novel about a young Albanian girl who goes to work for an American family and her issues assimilating.
Myrna
The Sandcastle Girls by Chris Bohjalian
This book is an eye opener about the Armenian genocide carried out by the Turks in 1915. I'll hold off on giving it 5 stars because I am only 1/3 into it so far.
Crystal Blackburn
A Killing Frost by R.D. Wingfield
A fast-paced story featuring Detective Inspector Jack Frost.
Francisca E B
The Magician's Elephant by Kate DiCamillo
This is an adventure of the spirit, of hoping against all odds, of believing in the impossible, of love, of loneliness, of trust, of forgiveness. DiCamillo’s prose is magical and evocative. The book begs to be read aloud (and I kept reading sections to anyone who would listen). Yoko Tanaka’s soft pencil illustrations are the perfect complement to DiCamillo’s heartfelt story.
Anna Robinson
The Two Wives of Henry Oades by Johanna Moran
This book caused a lively discussion at my book group this month. Many agreed it was no win situation. A great story with lots to think about. I think it was first published in England as many had not heard of it before I suggested it to our group.
marion Miller
The Lifeboat by Charlotte Rogan
I found this book a little disjointed, but the story line was original and you do get caught up in the story of the aftermath of a fire on a ship in 1914. The story revolves around several survivors, but I can't tell you too much as I would then give away the entire story. A good, quick read.
Kathy Vallee
Written in Blood by Sheila Lowe
Claudia the handwriting expert gets all caught up saving one of the students of the Sorensen Academy. After that, they both get kidnapped and have a high speed chase.
Susan Yoneda
The Reckoning by Jane Casey
The Reckoning is well written and set in London. There are lots of twists and turns and the bad guy actually ends up killing one of the "really" bad guys. They had kidnapped and caused his daughter to die from an asthma attack. The heroine is a gutsy DC who has to work with a neanderthal partner. It is the perfect page turner thriller for a weekend read.
Becky Zagor
Love Anthony by Lisa Genova
If you believe in the resilience of the human spirit, and like a deep character portrait, then Lisa Genova is for you. She portrays the real life challenges of families affected by medical maladies without sugar-coating and happy endings. A truly wonderful author and this latest book lives up to all her past high standards.
Marsha
The Casual Vacancy by J K Rowling
This is definitely not a book for young readers, although the teens in this novel are more damaged than their parents. Such a dysfunctional group of characters has not be equaled. There is so little happiness and joy in this book that you need to put it down a time or two. It is not for the weak. Most of her readers will plead for her to return to her previous genre.
Rodney Mercer
The Casual Vacancy by J. K. Rowling
I found this book a little difficult to get into early on, but I persevered and I really liked it in the end. Definitely very different from her Harry Potter books, but a great story nonetheless. I highly recommend it.
Lynn Demsky
61 Hours by Lee Child
I've enjoyed almost all of Lee Child's books, I like Reacher's lifestyle, personality and this one just totally astounded me! Maybe it's the best he's done so far!
Lynn Demsky
The Death Contingency by Nancy Lynn Jarvis
I didn’t read her books in order. This one was OK, but way too much reality on the salesperson side! If this was the first one I had read, I wouldn’t have read the second but maybe from the middle on to the ending was good!
Lynn Demsky
Calamity Jane by Kathleen Bacus
An amusing, entertaining, really good read! The characters were likeable and the story was believable!
Lynn Demsky
The Only Witness by Pamela Beason
This was really a GREAT read, the apes totally amazed and entertained me ---- in the beginning I was a tad confused but once you knew who Neema was, I was on their side all the time. I liked their antics, personalities and everything… a really good, different read!
Lynn Demsky
Death of a Couch Potato's Wife by Christy Barritt
A delightful entertaining read, cute characters – a cute sense of humor!
Lynn Demsky
Hazardous Duty by Christy Barritt
I was half-way though this book before I realized I had read it before and I was enjoying it so much I just read it again! Entertaining good read!
Lynn Demsky
Thomas Jefferson, Rachael & Me by Peter Boody
A most enjoyable, entertaining read! I really enjoyed the author’s sense of humor, the plot, and getting to know Jefferson as a person! Good read!
Lynn Demsky
Buying Murder by Nancy Lynn Jarvis
I enjoyed this book, it was a good entertaining read!
Marie Ledin
Blood Orchids by Toby Neal
A great mystery/crime story, fast paced, a book that was hard to put down. I have never read anything by Toby Neal, but will read another. Some very unexpected twists and turns. I enjoyed it as much as James Patterson and Patricia Cornwell, but with a little less forensics.
michele c
Full Disclosure by Dee Henderson
While the premise of the story is good, it seems to go on forever straying off the main subject.
michele c
Confessions of a Murder Suspect by James Patterson
Although it's a young adult novel, this was a really good read!
Robin McKay
Rainshadow Road by Lisa Kleypas
The novel was beautifully written and very touching. It is set in the little town of Friday Harbor, Washington. Lucy Marinn and her boyfriend of two years, Kevin, broke up. Kevin, it seems, was involved with Lucy’s younger sister, Alice. Lucy and Alice had a troubled relationship going back to when they were young. While on a bike, Lucy meets Sam Nolan, owner of a local vineyard. Sam, who came from a shattered home, was a confirmed bachelor. Both suffer from a fear of getting too close to another person, and both have been blessed with a bit of magic. While Lucy pours all of her emotions into creating beautiful stained glass windows, Sam has dedicated himself to establishing a vineyard. Slowly, both start to open up and trust each other.
Maria Aylward
The Casual Vacancy by J.K. Rowling
At first I was turned off by the swearing and sexual descriptions involving teenagers. But it is part of the characterization. The story itself grabs you. The little town, the conflicts among townspeople and between children and parents, the politics about the casual vacancy, an unexpected opening on the town's council due to a sudden death that could change the town's direction on a class issue. The book and its characters absorbed me into its world.
BK
Southern Living by Ad Hudler
A contemporary small town in Georgia finds itself overrun with Yankees and Japanese as industry and the South change. A would-be scheming Southern belle with a hardscrabble background but who married the right boy, a new reporter and editor for the local newspaper who don’t understand the local culture, a kind girl from Kroger’s produce department, and other characters mingle in the small town and find their own way among the strangers and old traditions. I listened on CD and thoroughly enjoyed the tale.
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Miss Julia Takes Over by Ann B. Ross
This is another delightful book about the matron, Miss Julia, who runs her house, the church, and much of the small NC town. I picture Hyacinth Bouquet with a southern accent when I read about Miss Julia. This book introduces a main character, Mr. Pickens, who will be in future books. Miss Julia’s ward, Hazel Marie, has disappeared while on a date with a church man to go to the movies. This sets Miss Julia and Hazel Marie’s boy, Little Lloyd, on an adventure of hiring a private detective and getting involved with a NASCAR racing team and a nefarious thief. I love every Miss Julia book, and this is no exception.
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Canada by Richard Ford
A story told from the viewpoint of a boy, about his own twin sister and about his bickering parents who were forced to marry after a short romance. It starts in the 1960s when the father, who never found success after his bravery in WW2, decides that he and the mother will rob a bank to escape his latest losing scheme. The twins take different roads in life with each facing the sadness of growing up on their own with their parents in prison. The boy ends up in a remote place in Canada and witnesses things that no one should have to see. He had to raise himself without a role model. It is a profound tale of a survivor that will stay with you and will make you glad if your life was a normal one.
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The Kitchen House by Kathleen Grissom
A pre-Civil War plantation novel told from the eyes of a little white girl who becomes an indentured servant to the house of a ship’s captain. She lives in the slave world, but must also learn the proprieties of the big house. As she grows up, both sides become dependant on her as her fortune changes.
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Georgia Bottoms by Mark Childress
Georgia is a modern, almost-forty southern belle with so many secret gentleman callers that she has to carefully schedule each night of the week. Her callers are generous, and she depends on their money. She’s a pillar of the church, lives with her mother and crazy brother, and is a beauty with a high school secret. And then Georgia has a really bad day that snowballs. I thoroughly enjoyed the story on CD, and the narrator was excellent.
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Trail of the Spellmans by Lisa Lutz
This is the fifth in a series of stories about the private investigating Spellman family. I love this family and all the craziness that goes on in their lives. This time the family is in conflict when each of them accepts a case that turns out to be in conflict with the others. The grandmother moves in, and the hired hand, Dee, who is a former prisoner, is the cook and has a story of his own. If you have never read the Spellmans, try to start with the first one since the family ages as the stories go along.
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Bound South by Susan Rebecca White
A delightful novel about a Southern matron’s fancy life, her out of control children, her housekeeper and her religious girl. I enjoyed this Atlanta story.
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Burnt Mountain by Anne Rivers Siddons
A young Georgia girl with an impossible mother and loving grandmother goes away to summer camp where she meets her first young love. She stumbles through life and college where she is mesmerized by an Irish poet. As time goes by she knows the complete happiness of marrying her soul mate. But all is not what it seems, and she remembers over and over her grandmother’s admonition “don’t let him take you into the Irishness”. I listened on tape and enjoyed the narrator. It’s not a ‘romance novel’, but one of Southern mystery and intrigue and friendship.
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Believing the Lie by Elizabeth George
This is another great episode in the lives of Inspector Lynley and Sergeant Havers. Tommy is sent on a secret assignment to look into the drowning of the son of an important person. It leads to all the people involved having secrets and lies. The assignment helps Insp. Lynley move on with his life after the tragic death of his wife in the previous novel. The author did a great job of reminding the reader of who the various characters are and what their relationships were from previous Lynley novels. I thoroughly enjoyed it. I regret that we won’t see it on PBS Mystery since the BBC has discontinued the Lynley series.
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The Keepers of the House by Shirley Ann Grau
I just discovered this book, which was a Pulitzer Prize winner in 1965. Anyone who enjoyed The Help might enjoy this book too. It follows seven generations of a family in the South as they settle there and become pillars of the community. I especially enjoyed the Howland woman featured toward the end of the book.
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The Litigators by John Grisham
A young lawyer burned out by a high price law firm ends up in an alley bar, then stumbles onto a down and out two-man law firm that he, in a drunken stupor, impulsively joins. The three manage to get themselves into all kinds of messes. This is the first Grisham novel that I have read in a long time. I don’t recall him being so humorous. I laughed out loud in places and cheered the young lawyer on as he tried to correct his career course after doing something that we’ve all wanted to do at some point… walk out.
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The Hypnotist by Lars Kepler
A psychological thriller and international bestseller that was translated from Swedish. A gruesome triple killing brings Detective Inspector Linna into action and lures the hesitant and infamous hypnotist into hypnotizing just one more patient to help save the fourth member of
the slain family. The plot has several different subplots that all roll together. The character development is very good. I felt as if I knew the various characters. I enjoyed this thriller in the same way I enjoyed “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo”.
Sandy McCullough
You Came Back by Christopher Coake
Thirty-something Mark Fife believes he has moved past the accidental death of his young son, Brendan, as well as his divorce from his college sweetheart, Chloe. Nearly 7 years have passed, he's successful, he's in love again and he believes he's mastered his own memories. But then he is told the ghost of his son is haunting his old house and Chloe believes a medium can help send Brendan to the other side. This book was awesome!
Lorna
Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs
I was giving this book 4 stars until the last 2 chapters. I do not care for the ending. A sixteen year old boy goes searching into his grandfathers past after he dies. Jacob needs answers about the "different" man his grandfather was. Jacob discovers more than he expects. What I enjoyed most is how the author created the story based on the 'bizarre" photos. I think this would make a better movie than book. Can't wait to discuss this at my book club.
Jud Hanson
Epiphany by Stuart Land
An amazing book with a futuristic and thoughtful plot.
LINDA BASS
Fire Season by Jon Loomis
After someone shot to death innocent seals and no one was caught, numerous fires sprung out in P'town Massachusetts. Detective Frank Coffin and his partner had a devil of a time keeping up as the arsonist was determined to burn down their town structure by structure. Frank's cousin and a police officer went nuts and ended up in a mental hospital for seeing aliens, and Frank is sleep deprived with having to be at every case --- and then he has to find out where the body was when some one placed a man's head in a lobster tank!
Jon Loomis spins a fast paced incredibly funny mystery story that kept me amused and on the edge of my seat!
Tessa BC
Number the Stars by Lois Lowry
A YA novel of the German occupation of Denmark in 1943 and the brave Danes who helped save their Jewish neighbors. Lowry does a great job of building tension yet maintaining an air of innocence, keeping the story true to what a young girl would witness and be aware of. I was completely engaged and caught up in the drama of their situation. This is a very good way to introduce young readers to a very dark time in history.
Judy O.
The Saturday Big Tent Wedding Party by Alexander McCall Smith
This is a recent installment in the No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency series. Mma Grace Makutsi finally marries Phuti in a wonderful wedding in a big tent. Other mysterious happenings are solved in this charming book. This is just a delightful series --- if nothing more than for Mma Makutsi's unlimited "wisdom".
Jud Hanson
Coyote Bird by Jim DeFelice
A fun read, but it needed a deeper plot. The book ended at what would be only the half-way mark in other books of this type. Still, worth reading if you have a little time to kill.
Betty Chrastka
The Illumination by Kevin Brockmeier
At a certain time, on a certain day, the illumination starts. Every wound, bruise, illness shines. The five stories in this book feature people whose lives intersect, sometimes deeply, sometimes not. The descriptions are eerie and powerful. The writing is tight, with well drawn characters.
Kellie
Mortal Prey by John Sandford
#13 of the Lucas Davenport series --- Clara Rinker was a character who appeared in earlier books. She is a “gun for hire”. A fugitive. After her lover is shot and killed and her baby dies, she is out to get revenge. The FBI asks Lucas to help since he had dealt with her before. Lucas leaves pregnant Weather in Minnesota and travels to St. Louis, where they think Rinker will appear. Lucas is trying to track her, but Rinker seems to be one step ahead of everyone.The FBI is portrayed as incompetent in this book, almost to the point of being unrealistic. I didn't hate this book, it just seemed a bit slow.
Julie Siemek
The Serpent's Bite by Warren Adler
Excellent book. It took me a little while to get into it, but then I couldn't put it down.
Sharon Herbert
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
Nick and Amy are just hours away from celebrating their fifth wedding anniversary when Nick, still at work, gets a call from his neighbor that his cat is outside. When Nick arrives home, he finds that not only is his cat outside but that his front door is wide open and his wife is missing.
The police arrive, a report is filed, the crime scene examined and Nick is continually repeating his innocence. However, no matter what Nick says he still becomes the prime suspect.
The story is unimaginable and I'm now afraid of the author Gillian Flynn because for her to make up this story is scary.
Lois Lilling
Those Who Save Us by Jenna Blum
What happens when a daughter investigates her mother's past in Nazi Germany and finds
a surprising story?
Bonnie Gluhanich
Slammerkin by Emma Donoghue
Poverty, prostitution, deceit, slavery, murder. This is Dickens as written for the 21st century reader and it's quite a read.
Ann Anderson
The Dog That Talked to God by Jim Kraus
This is a light read that we'll discuss at our church-based book club. The dog is very wise. The female character needs someone to listen to her. It works!
Deb Brandon
We Need to Talk About Kevin by Lionel Shriver
It was a very thought provoking but disturbing story. Eva writes brutally introspective missives to her husband Franklin, and tries to come to grips with the fact that their 17-year-old son, Kevin, has committed atrocious act(s). It's mind numbing, harrowing, psychologically astute and sometimes even a darkly humorous novel. Was it real or Memorex?!? It is fiction, but with so many of these types of serial murders that have happened in our world today, it seems so very real.
Diane Westcott
Live by Night by Dennis Lehane
Great book, rich characters, good plot!
Marie Ledin
Torch Ginger by Toby Neal
Great mystery, murder, with a little romance. I will read the next two books, I enjoy the Hawaii setting.
Marie-Louise Molloy
Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
Excellent!
Norm
Mad River by John Sandford
Mad River is another Sandford masterpiece.
Sally Lincoln
The Pilot's Wife by Anita Shreve
Life can be so ordinary, so run of the mill. Never enough time spent with the ones you love because of work commitments and the teenage daughter who wants to be an adult. Then that dreaded knock at the door late at night puts your whole life, no, your whole world in a spin. The people you thought you knew so well, those who are a part of your life, are not who they seem to be. An absorbing story of secrets and doubts.
Gabi Kaiser
Phantom by Jo Nesbo
I have read all of Nesbo's books and he always manages to surprise and engage the reader.
Lorraine Charles
This Is How You Lose Her by Junot diaz
Beautifully written book. Often funny, often heartbreaking. I highly recommend this book.
Ann Hengst
Locked Up in La Mesa by Eldon Asp and Steve Peterson
Interesting book about the things that go on in a Mexican prison, written by a American who spent time there. Boy the things that went on there! Read it to find out
rhonda
Friendkeeping by julie klam
A wonderful book about how our girlfriends enrich our lives.
Patricia Revzin
Love Anthony by Lisa Genova
While I have read numerous articles on autism, I didn't realize the extent of its devastating effects on both the child and family. Through the viewpoint of Anthony, who is either "a boy with autism" or "an autistic boy," (as Genova writes in her afterword), I became emotionally invested in the story. Anthony's description of the separate "rooms" in his mind (most notably for me, the "Horror Room") provides an intriguing peek into how he thinks about and reacts to outside stimuli. While Anthony is at the center of the story, the plot also revolves around his mother and another mother whose chance encounter on a beach several years earlier will come full circle later on. The last few pages of the novel will surely tug at your heart strings.
Linda Hitchcock
Recruiters by Silas House
This beautifully illustrated compact short story by master wordsmith Silas House is one of the finest works to speak out against war and the treatment of wounded veterans. It has the depth of a full length novel. Brilliant and insightful, as one expects from Silas.
Estelle Wolf
Trust Your Eyes by Linwood Barclay
I could not turn the pages fast enough. Action-packed, thrilling, I just wanted to keep reading and could not put it down
Sue, Saratoga
Brooklyn by Colm Toibin
A young Irish woman emigrates to America, begins a career, falls in love and shapes her new life.
Amy Bransfield
The Art of Fielding by Chad Harbach
After reading so much praise for this book, my expectations were high. I wish it lived up to the hype. The book is told from various character's perspectives - some more completely than others. Much of the book was predictable and I never felt connected to the characters. While it's written in a very readable manner, the book is about 200 pages too long.
Ivy Pittman
The Devil She Knows by Bill Loehfelm
Staten Island is one big dismal place to Maureen.The fact that she is single, works in a bar, and has no boyfriend is enough to make anyone run in search of anything better. But when Maureen stumbles across something she shouldn't and bodies start turning up, her life gets more interesting than she could have ever imagined.
ck
The World We Found by Thrity Umrigar
Four women were university students in India in the 1970s. They were passionate about social justice. Two of them spent one horrible night in jail following a protest movement march. And, then they graduated, married and drifted apart. After 30 years the friend living in the U.S. asks the women to come for a reunion.... while she is still living. Book discussion groups will love this book!!! Friendship. Religious intolerance. Sexual issues. Promises. Missed opportunities. So much to consider in this brilliant novel.
penney kolb
The Intercept by Dick Wolf
This is Dick Wolf's (of Law and Order fame) first novel and it's a credible start. A thriller with a decent plot, but it hasn't hooked me yet. So far the premise is very good, but it seems to be written more to be turned into a script than an even-flowing story. I'm about a third through and will persevere as I've been fond of his TV work.
Fran O
The Winter Ghosts by Kate Mosse
A beautifully written tale of a ghostly encounter. My only complaint is that the book was a bit short! The author has a way with words that automatically set the hair on the back on your neck standing up.
Irene Unger
The Baker's Daughter by Sarah McCoy
I would have enjoyed this book much more had the author not jumped between 1945 and today, with two different characters and two totally different stories. I looked forward to reading this and I was disappointed.
Dorothy Gordon
Duty to the Dead by Charles Todd
Historical mystery set during WWI, mostly in England. The protagonist is Bess Crawford, a young Army nurse who reluctantly promises a dying soldier to deliver a message to his brother. Her trip to a quiet English village turns up some unexpected results, including the family secrets that have been kept too long. Sort of a younger Miss Marple or Miss Silver character who doesn't get fooled easily and doesn't give up either. A good read.
Evelyn Dauer
Son by Lois Lowry
I have read over the past 15 years - the Giver,the Messenger and Gathering Blue. I have loved the society she introduced as a warning to start appreciating what we have in the present. I heard "Son" was her conclusion to the series - I was intrigued and just finished reading the book. Loved it!!!! Wouldn't spoil the ending but it was appropriate to the flow of the book and characters. If you have read the previous books and enjoyed, then I recommend reading this book. You will not be disappointed. You can read the book as a stand alone book, but having a past familiarity to the characters makes it that much more special: a deeper understanding and more emphatic relation to them. It is a story that lingers in your mind.
Virginia Weber
Talking to the Dead by Harry Bingham
An unusual and intriguing mystery with a very interesting main character, plus atmospheric Wales! I could not put it down.
Jane Squires
Promised to Another by Laura V. Hilton
Annie Beiler is promised to Luke. But Luke decides to leave the community and see what the Englishers have to offer. He returns for Annie but he isn't the same. Joshua Esh is afraid to ask Annie if he can court her. He knows she was promised to Luke. Annie no longer desires Luke. She has a crush on Joshua but he is considered a player. Fate changes a lot of things. There is a lot of forgiveness, an accident, a forced wedding, and so much more. A story of misjudging others, mistakes, healing and such. One thing different was Joshua being transplanted in from Pennsylvania Amish into Missouri Amish. A good read.
Margie Bunting
Murder Most Austen by Tracy Kiely
Kiely's latest Jane Austen-themed mystery is set at an Austen convention in Bath. Protagonist Elizabeth happens upon not one, but two more dead bodies (this is the fourth in the series). Light-hearted and well written.
Marion Peterman
Frozen Heat by Richard Castle
I liked that this story took us beyond the TV series and perhaps gave us a look at what is to come on the program. Good resolution of problem, yet leaving us in suspense as to what needs solving yet. Full of action!
wendy petera
A Wanted Man by Lee Child
Jack Reacher teams up with a couple of women this time to help him, as he manages to get embroiled in another situation. Lee Child is always good at building the suspense to the end and leaves you hanging and hungering for the next book.
Robert L. Cusick
Killing Kennedy by Bill O'Reilly
Excellent read and very informative. Gives you specific details and not alot of extraneous nonsense.
Robert L. Cusick
The Racketeer by John Grisham
Exciting read that will keep your attention. I always enjoy his novels - a light read, good story
Robert L. Cusick
Out Of The Blue by Victor Cruz & Peter Schrager
Being a big NY Giants fan, I had to read about Victor's rags to riches journey to star football player on one of the biggest media stages. Victor is also from the next town over so it was a natural. Recommend to any football fan - a light read and interesting story
Phoenix V
Dear Marcus: Speaking To The Man Who Shot Me by Jerry McGill
A moving and revealing autobiography written in the form of letters from the author to the stranger who shot him and left him paralyzed as a teenager. McGill's honesty about his feelings and how his perspective has changed through the years since he was shot make this an engaging and worthwhile experience.
Mary Rodriguez
Deadly Distraction by William Manchee
A good read for fans of thrillers.
Lyanne Poirier
The Drop by Michael Connelly
Two cases to solve in one book! Harry Bosch is the most relentless detective! It will really be a sad day when he retires. Intriguing book, you cannot put it down.
Diane Porter
The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry by Rachel Joyce
A very different concept with a wonderful main character surrounded by people who don't/won't/can't understand him.
Janice Hoaglin
A Deeper Darkness by J.T. Ellison
This book is the first in a series, and this series is actually a spin-off from another series by this author. I have not read anything previously by this author, but now plan to go back and read the earlier series, and also continue with this series as well. Despite being packed with action, and suspense that never stops, this author takes the reader into the emotional lives of the characters, and leaves the reader feeling that these are people you could like, and spend time getting to know. I liked it a lot!
Jane McCown
The Little Giant of Aberdeen County by Tiffany Baker
I am about a third of the way through this book, and am having a hard time tearing myself away. The characters are so well-developed,and the quirky story is my favorite type of read.
Jeanie Landiak
The Spy Lover by Kiana Davenport
This historical novel of the Civil War is gruesome in its details of the skirmishes. Interwoven is a love story, but the majority of the novel is the Civil War itself and how terribly uncivil it was. I haven't read a novel based on the Civil War before but this was great. I learned a lot about this period of American history.
Terry Parrish
Secondworld by Jeremy Robinson
Fantastic book. Lots of science in it. But kinda scary. Hope it NEVER really happens. And so far, I haven't had any nightmares about Red Flakes! Would definitely recommend this book to any one who likes mystery, history or sci-fi all rolled into one.
Allison Gardner
The Girl who Chased the Moon by Sarah Addison Allen
Great Read!
Pattie Berryhill
The Cocktail Waitress by James M. Cain
I loved this book and now want to read more books by Cain!
Linda Miller
City of Women by David R. Gillhan
This was an amazing book that takes place during WWII. My father was a medic for the US Army on the front lines in Germany and France and England and has many pictures of the area at that time. It put into perspective what the book was describing as I was able to look at the pictures of the bombed out buildings and architecture of the time.
Lois Belliveau
In the Shadow of the Banyan by Vaddey Ratner
Very moving novel about life under the Khmer Rouge regime in Cambodia.
helen
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
A thriller, with lots of twists and turns, a must read!!!
Pattie Berryhill
Severe Clear by Stuart Woods
Thoroughly enjoyed this book!
Josephine Anna Kaszuba Locke, Book Hugger & Ace Reviewer
The WInter Soldiers by Richard M. Ketchum
The author captured the essence of the American Revoluntion through miles of research... I was in awe of the entire rendition. Richard M. Ketchum is a genius writer who has put a lot of work into sorting through the aspects of the American Revolution. I know of no other who has accomplished such a magnificent feat. Ketchum covers the English side, the American side, characterizing military leaders, accomplishments, locations... and renders non-fiction with maps and sketches/paintings, while significantly and succinctly giving me a fresh look at the American Revolution.
Nancy Boschetti
Porch Lights by Dorthea Benton Frank
I was drawn into the story and characters in the book immediately. Generally, I can put a book down in between readings so I always know when I have a winner in my hands when it becomes difficult for me to put the book down. I am halfway through the book and can't wait to see how the rest of the story evolves and what the characters do. The author's description of the low-country area is beautiful and entices me to visit that area. I love the flow of the story and the author's style of writing.
Maxine Urso
Prepare by Geoffrey Germann
Just received this book from the author and I've read a small portion of it, but it is wonderful so far. His style is unique and insights into the smallest events are are fun to read. Looking forward to finishing it this weekend!
Rosemary Sobczak
Zoo by James Patterson
Seems like he's channeled Michael Crichton, Dean Koontz, or perhaps Robin Cook. Nothing original here.
Laura Beierbach
The Racketeer by John Grisham
A great novel.
Lori Bednaz
Angel Falls by Kristin Hannah
Love her books! I've been reading the back ones I missed!
Fran
Heaven Should Fall by Rebecca Coleman
Rebecca Coleman’s novel, “Heaven Should Fall” was an endearing read with compelling characters. The plot offers the readers many twists and turns, leaving the reader wondering what would occur on the next page. It featured endearing, yet flawed characters, who each stumble through their own road blocks as the story progresses. I thought the author did a beautiful job illustrating the devastation of PTSD and the lack of services available to our veterans, who so selflessly risk their lives. I truly enjoyed this book and anticipate that others will too.
Florence Cohen
Creole Belle by James Lee Burke
Burke's novels are pure poetry in their descriptive narratives regarding the people - all characters - and especially when he describes the scenery and swampy areas. His main characters, Dave R. and Clete, are so marvelously drawn that you can just about picture them. I love all their adventures. The titles of his books are terrific!!! I've been a fan of his writing for many, many years. I'm 82.
Kathryn
Love Anthony by Lisa Genova
Another wonderful story from Lisa Genova. Be sure to read the author's notes at the end for her personal conclusions about autism spectrum disorder (I think she is right).
Raylene Wauda
The Litigators by John Grisham
His legal stories are great fun; it's a quick read.
Phyllis S
A Dangerous Woman by Mary McGarry Morris
A remarkable story of a woman struggling to find her true self and somehow fit in with
those around her. Desperate to belong, she brings emotions and actions that always seem
to end in disastrous results and ultimately unhappiness to Martha. She is portrayed
as a very disturbed person.
Crystal Blackburn
Death of a Chimney Sweep: A Hamish Macbeth Mystery by MC Beaton
Another outing for Hamish Macbeth, the Scottish highlands policeman. An unusually high body count and a more involved storyline, but still very entertaining.
Julie towson
Not Young, Still Restless by Jeanne Cooper
If anyone is a fan of the daytime soap 'The Young and the Restless,' then this is the book for you. It's the memoirs of the lead actress, Jeanne Cooper. She's had quite a life, and she's still going strong and still acting at the age of 83. Since I'm a big fan of the show, I really enjoyed this book and all the little insights she gives into her co-stars and past loves.
Donna Haueter
The Mistress Of Nothing by Kate Pullinger
A very interesting historical novel, based on a true character. I enjoyed it immensely as I have traveled in Egypt and sailed the Nile.
Thelma Straw
The Panther by Nelson DeMille
This is DeMille's latest book, featuring a character known as John Corey. My favorite character in modern fiction, I see Corey as a kind of modern everyman - he began as Keith Landry in Spencerville, developed more as John Sutter in The Gold Coast, then became Paul Brenner in The General's Daughter and Up Country, as John since Plum Island, and in each John Corey book developed even more. I love him - and can't wait to see the next book!
Dorothy Flood
Save Me by Lisa Scottoline
A wonderful story about a cafeteria mom who saved her own daughter and did her very best to save another child and then was accused of not trying to save the other and just saving her daughter. Would she be sued? Should she sue the school? Who was responsible for the fire? Read on.
ML rosendale
Heading out to Wonderful by Robert Goolick
Interesting story and well developed characters.
Judy O.
Finding Casey by Jo-Ann Mapson
I loved this book! First of all, this book is set in the lovely city of Santa Fe, NM--one of my favorite places. Secondly, it is a wonderful, warm story--full of rich characters and situations. Casey McGuire disappeared eight years before, and her sister Juniper has despaired of ever finding her. Juniper has been adopted by a loving family and has somewhat moved on from that awful day. It is a sequel to Solomon's Oak, an earlier book by Mapson.
Elaine Baxter
The Chaperone by Laura Moriarty
I had been debating whether I wanted to read this book, and finally decided to. I am so glad that I did. The characters were believable, I even felt sorry for the young charge, It's a delightful book that reads easily.
Joy Dickinson
The Year of Living Biblically by A.J. Jacobs
The author decides to follow every law of the Bible exactly for one year. His personal and spiritual journey. A great read. Provocative topic, and well-written.
Sherrie Wood
Precinct 13 by Tate Hallaway
I was not sure what to expect, but this author is really good and the book is quite entertaining. It is a paranormal book about a college graduate working as a coroner in South Dakota and the events become much more fascinating. A good quick book to read. I like to try out new authors and have been using the library to check out books. This was one of them, and I am ready to get another book from this author.
Linda Johnson
Gathering Blue by Lois Lowry
A companion book to The Giver. A short book written for young adults, this book is well-written, but closes suddenly - perhaps a hook to move the reader on to the next book. Kira was born with a twisted leg to a widowed mother. The book begins with Kira sitting with her mother's body waiting for the spirits to leave. Now orphaned, Kira defends herself from other women who want her land for their own needs in a court that recognizes that Kira has a gift. Her life seems to improve as she develops her skills and discovers other friends with talents.
karen cancienne
The Panther by Nelson DeMille
I love DeMille's style of writing, his wit and sarcastic views in tight situations.
Story line is heavy, but it's easy to follow, and always a bit scary. A good read.
Elizabeth Dee
The Book Thief by Markus Zusah
This a story of WWII that is from a different perspective, through the eyes of a young girl, who is misplaced in the world. I have a penchant for 'books about books' and this one fits that bill nicely. It's one I will keep on my shelve to reread some day, and one I recommend to friends who are looking for a good read.
laura Beierbach
The Racketeer by John Grisham
Nothing less than five stars for John's work.
Anne Marie Koschnick
The Lincoln Conspiracy by Timothy L. O'Brien
I found it slow getting going. When I finally found the rhythm, I thought, okay, it's picking up and thought it would get better. For awhile, it did, but it kept throwing twists and turns in that seemed like he just needed something to get his characters out of the trouble they were in. It was very confusing. And, I love mysteries, so I am used to twists and turns. The end left me thinking that I had just given him a number of hours of my time to read his book and this is the ending he gives me? To be fair, with "conspiracy" in the name, perhaps the twists were warranted, but as far as I am concerned, I'm sorry I gave the book as much time as I did.
Gail Spitzer
The Sisters by Nancy Jensen
Family secrets are detailed and intertwined in this compelling novel which is well written and hard to put down. I was drawn to the characters and their decisions in their lives.
Karen Allman
The Casual Vacancy by J.K. Rowling
I was so excited to read Rowling's first novel,written for adults. I thought it would be a book that I would have trouble putting down but it was not. It was hard to keep all the characters straight at the beginning of the book.This book was average and forgettable and not what I expected from J.K. Rowling.
Crystal Blackburn
How to Tell If Your Cat Is Plotting to Kill You by The Oatmeal (Mathew Inman)
Hilarious, laugh-out-loud funny. Cat lovers will love this book!
Note: Not for children. Very adult.
Sandy McCullough
Girls in Trucks by Katie Crouch
While Sarah Walters is meant to follow in her mother and grandmother's footsteps as a debutante in Charleston's Camellia Society, she can't quite ignore the barbarism just beneath all the propriety, and leaves South Carolina for a life in New York City. There, she and other displaced Southern friends try to make sense of how much of their training applies to real life. It's not until after life's complications become overwhelming that she returns home with matured eyes, to live among those who know her best. I really liked this book a lot and want to read the rest of the books by this author. I finished it in two days.
Kathy Iwasaka
Gold by Chris Cleave
It hooked me at page one and I felt like I was racing with the characters to the finish line. Even though I have no interest in bike racing I felt drawn into this world and was a little sad to leave it. Well written and easy to read, I would recommend this to all.
Wendy Catalano
Improper Relations by Juliana Ross
A hot and steamy historical romance that is a novella that I wish wasn't. I could have kept reading and reading. Set in England in 1858, widowed Hannah becomes a companion to her late husband's aunt. One day, in the library, she observes Leo (her cousin by marriage) dallying with a maid and her curiosity has peaked. Never before has she seen or experienced such things even while married, and she was taught by her mother that you must submit to your husband. Out of curiosity she approaches Leo and he offers to teach her about pleasure. As the lessons begin Hannah becomes drawn to Leo in a way she has never been drawn to a man before. I will definitely be looking for more from Ms. Ross again!
ellie lewis
The Time in Between by Maria Duenas
A memorable, fascinating, and wonderful novel that evokes the period, and the characters are well portrayed.
Pearl Berger
The Shoemaker's Wife by Adriana Trigiani
Unforgettable novel which is profound, emotional, and depicts the era and the setting beautifully.
Marsha
The Shoemaker's Wife by Adriana Trigiani
This heartwarming story follows the lives of two young people from a small village in Northern Italy. Through circumstances unforseen they both end up in America and their lives intersect. She is a seamstress and he a shoemaker. The lovely historical epic of love, family, war and loss will keep you entranced until the last page.
Lori
Love Anthony by Lisa Genova
Although this book was well-written, I'm sorry to say that I was disappointed in it after loving the author's two previous books. I found this one rather ordinary and unsatisfying.
Mary Lynn Gerlach
Sleeping Beauty by Judith Michael
I picked this book up at our library's annual book sale. A bag of books for a $1.00. This book was wrote in the early 90s and I don't know how I missed reading it. It is really a good story and I would recommend it to anyone. I think this book is worth a dollar itself, plus I have more to read!
Sonia Chopra
Rearview Mirror: A Memoir by Alana Stewart
Read Alana Stewart (she was married to actor George Hamilton and rock star Rod Stewart and was Farrah Fawcett 's BFF) book on her life so far, called "Rearview Mirror: A Memoir." Liked it but found it sad. You would think that after being married to such famous rich men, she would have money but she doesn't, you would think that her kids would be okay but the two sons grew up addicted to drugs and her daughter has a few issues.
And you would think she had a fabulous life, filled with glamour and glitter and all that but far from it, she was plagued with anxiety, low self esteem, struggled with depression, bulimic and depression, she regularly saw therapists, spiritual gurus like Deepak
Coral Harrison
Home Front by Kristan Hannah
A story of a family with 2 daughters. Michael is a lawyer too caught up in his work to help with the girls. Jolene is a helicopter pilot and is deployed to Iraq for a year. It's a story you cannot lay down. I read until after 1:30 AM so I could finish it.
Angelia
Madicine by Derek Lee Armstrong
I'm not usually a fan of pandemic stories, but between the characters and the writing style, this one holds my interest.
Lisa Engelhardt
NW by Zadie Smith
Ms Smith has clear voices for her characters in this novel. The reader can imagine them by her descriptions and hear their voices. Their neighborhood in northwest London is a fifth character. I have only read about a quarter of the book and have been introduced to only two of the characters but I think the view of the community is going to be very strong. I find myself thinking about Leah, the first character we meet, during my day doing other things. I look forward to getting back to her story.
L Doyle
Hark! A Vagrant by Kate Beaton
Kate is a young graphic artist/cartoonist. She's also a passionate historian. In this collection of her web-published cartoons, her pairing of selective irreverence with a true regard for and knowledge of history make for some absolutely hysterical new peeks at the history we think we know. Her subjects include the famous and the obscure, and even the characters in or authors of renowned works. I was frequently inspired to go back and research the history I thought I already knew...
Rebecca Perez
Plum Wine by Angela Davis-Gardner
I would recommend Plum Wine because it portrays the culture in Japan after the attacks on Hiroshima. The way the novel portrays these is through a love story and the pain of atom bomb victims. You are drawn into the characters, and then it is revealed they are victims of Hiroshima. I think it is a good book because it made me more interested in researching the history of World War II and the events leading up to the attack on Hiroshima. It also made me interested in researching the Cuban Missile Crisis which has it's 50th anniversary this month.
Debbie M
Killing Lincoln by Bill O'Reilly
I thoroughly enjoy this book. O'Reilly presents a non-fiction book in a style that is easy to read and to understand. I liked the day-by-day description of the events leading to the end of the Civil War and to the assassination of President Lincoln. So many details were covered of which I had no knowledge. My opinion of Abraham Lincoln and Ulysses S Grant was changed. Of course, John Wilkes Booth is presented as a fanatic.
Bonnie
The Round House by Louise Erdrich
A gritty, brave novel about a rape on an Indian reservation. Intense sometimes, heartwarming at times, but an important read.
Sherman H.
The Dallas Cowboys: The Outrageous History of the Biggest, Loudest, Most Hated, Best Loved Football Team in America by Joe Nick Patoski
A new book that is a tell-all book on the Dallas Cowboys going back to the early days before Tom Landry and all the different coaches and players and owners of this very controversial team. Today they have a multi-million dollar stadium and their mini-mall that surrounds it where fans spend top dollar for a ticket and souvenirs -- but what about the game and the players that are out there on the field? Find out in this big book on the Cowboys saga.
Wendy Catalano
Three River Ranch by Roxanne Snopek
This is a sweet contemporary romance. A quick read with a fast-paced story. The characters were well developed and the story flowed seamlessly. The richly drawn setting made me feel like I was at Three River Ranch. Carson decides to use the land left to him in his father's will as a horse (Mustang) preserve, but the land is only his if he marries. Rory, pregnant and homeless, leaves her cheating fiance and answers the ad for the live in caretaker at the ranch. Both have been on the wrong side of happiness and their developing romance will leave you smiling.
I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
JoRN
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
I may be in the minority about this book.This book was hard to get into and I ended up giving up.
JoRN
Fifty Shades of Grey by EL James
I can't believe I fell for the hype and actually tried to read this. This book is truly awful. I want my money back.
Linda Dietz
Unending Devotion by Jody Hedlund
Lily, an "act first, think later" kind of girl, is determined to find and rescue her sister... no matter what the cost! In the midst of her search, she "finds" that which she wasn't looking for: one Connell McCormick, who seemingly thwarts her at every turn. As readers, we "find" characters who come to life. Vera, the owner of the boarding house, dishes out advice along with her terrible cooking and bad coffee. Oren, Lily's employer & father figure, tries to protect Lily. Only problem is...she doesn't want protected! She is on a mission & no one will stop her...or will they? Does she find more... much more than she thought she was searching for?
Crystal Blackburn
'Til Death Do Us Part by Kate White
It makes for a truly good read when true crime writer Bailey Wiggins looks into some supposedly accidental deaths for a friend.
Helen
Les Miserables by Victor Hugo
There is a movie coming out at Christmas that I look forward to. I will read this book. The first two hundred pages remind me of Dickens and Oliver Goldsmith. I'm enjoying it.
Bonnie
Lost Memory of Skin by Russell Banks
Interesting novel, but not for the faint of heart, since the main characters are (perhaps) rehabilitated pedophiles and sex perverts. The life of these homeless is quite eye-opening.
Michele
Voyager by Diana Gabaldon
I have just discovered the Outlander series and am on the third book, Voyager. This is one well-written series. I am really enjoying it and learning a lot about history, too.
Kathleen Green
The Well and the Mine by Gin Phillips
Good character development. Great first novel.
Sharon
11/22/63 by Stephen King
Great book. I hadn't read a King book in a long time -- too scary for me. 11/22/63 however is not at all like that. I loved it!
LINDA BASS
Midnight: Century Of The Vampires by Ami Blacker
For as long as she could remember, Aura's mom had called her a monster, then rogue vampires killed her during the night and took her brother, leaving her to wonder why she was spared. She spent the next few years avoiding the vampires that caused the earth chaos as they destroyed anything and everything in their selfish quest to dominate earth and destroy the human race.
Then she met Simpson, who took her to his underground station where he healed her wounds and fed her. A year later, she met Mark and they became partners and took out vampires as they slept. They did this over and over again until the lead vampire tracked and kidnapped her. Mark was beside himself with guilt and went to the under ground for help.
Chris Lantz
The Athena Project by Brad Thor
An excellent read, enjoyed it very much and would recommend it to anyone who likes a fast and furious-paced suspense novel with a twist!
Nancy Gaynor
Speechless by Hannah Harrington
Mean gossip girl finally sees what her thoughtless comments cause when a classmate is put in a coma. Chelsea decides that since her words got her in trouble, she would stop talking. The true Chelsea comes out and, now an observer instead of an instigator, she weathers her "friends'" rejection as new friends take her in. I loved this book. We recently showed the film FINDING KIND in our community and awareness of bullying has been heightened. I enjoyed watching as Chelsea moved away from "mean girl" into someone I could enjoy being around, giving me hope for all of the bullies out there.
Jaimie Bruzenak
The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry by Rachel Joyce
This was one of the most moving books I've read in a long time. Harold Fry unexpectedly takes an arduous journey - both physically and mentally - that is life-changing. I highly recommend it.
Maureen H
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
Loved this book! It hooked me from the beginning and kept me engrossed. This is one book I will not soon forget. Thank you Gillian Flynn for your creative and disturbed mind. I will be looking for your other books.
Mary Yamaguchi
Love Walked In by Maria de los Santos
When Martin Grace enters the hip Philadelphia coffee shop Cornelia Brown manages, her life changes forever. But little does she know that her newfound love is only the harbinger of greater changes to come. Meanwhile, across town, Clare Hobbs—eleven years old and abandoned by her erratic mother—goes looking for her lost father. She crosses paths with Cornelia while meeting with him at the café, and the two women form an improbable friendship that carries them through the unpredictable currents of love and life. This was at first a bit hard to get into, it took about 50 pages, and then it took off. I thought it might be -- judging by the title -- a little 'smarmy' but it isn't at all. Have enjoyed it as a quick read.
Sue Border
Faith by Jennifer Haigh
This novel is so well-written that one does not know what is really going on until the end. The characters are well-developed and one feels for all of them.
Marsha
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
This author has found a way to make a sociopathic character somewhat fascinating. If you like stories of manipulative, destructive, dangerous characters, this read is for you. Hardly a love story!
Laurie Carlson
The Memory Jar by Tricia Goyer
A beautiful and amazing, heart-warming, soul-touching story of friendship, loss, blame, love, family, misunderstanding, finding our true path in life and following God's plan for it and living it.
Author Tricia Goyer never disappoints me with her books about the Amish. Her books are some of my favorites. She can tell an Amish story that is SO intriguing about the 'plain people' and turn them and their lives into colorful stories we never could have imagined, thus making the people she writes some of the most colorful people I have ever read about!
The issues she brings to light are some of the same types of things that happen to us in our own lives, not just the Amish.
Sandra Furlotte
The Spiral Staircase by Karen Armstrong
This is the true story of Karen Armstrong, who entered a convent at the age of 17 and left after 7 years. This book covers the years immediately after her departure from the religious order. This is a powerful book describing the impact of the order on a young girl's life.
Kelly Perry
The Uglies by Scott Westerfeld
This is my favorite book ever. A lot of adults may scoff at reading a teen book, but give it a chance. It's worth it!!
Michael McAdam
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
So far I love it! I am not too too far into it yet but I like how it is set up. A woman disappears and those chapters alternate with entries from her diary. The buzz on this book is really good and I am going to have to agree so far. And I LOVE the writing style. I will be seeking out other books by Gillian Flynn when I am done. Thumbs up!
Norene Wittlin
Henry & June by Anais Nin
Don't waste your time.
Donna Shaw
The Presidents Club by Nancy Gibbs and Michael Duffy
The President's Club is an exclusive club of ex-presidents started by Herbert Hoover and Harry Truman, going up to the current president. This book lets us into the secrets of the rivalry, alliances, betrayal and attempts to set personal feelings aside for what is best for the country. .
Sharron
Lone Wolf by Jodie Picoult
Luke Warren studies wolves. He spent 2 years living in the forests with a pack of wolves, where he was accepted by them and they became his family. His real family, wife Georgie and children Edward and Cara feel abandoned. After retrieving Cara from a drinking party, they have a life changing accident. Luke is in a coma, Cara injured. Edward and Cara argue and disagree over whether Luke's life is "over" and the plug should be pulled. Luke's comments throughout compare the social structure of a wolf pack to a family structure.
readinrobin
The Mirror by Marlys Millhiser
This is an older book, from 1978, about a girl who looks into an old mirror at the same time as her grandmother, and wakes up in her grandmother's body when her grandmother was her age. While trying to figure out how to go back, she must adjust to the hard life in those days. Meanwhile, her grandmother is in her body in the present day, also learning to adjust. Very detailed and fantastic story. Or really two stories, one for each girl.
Roe Postilio
One Last Thing Before I Go by Jonathan Tropper
A really interesting read... funny but also very touching. Tropper definitely has a way with words! I would have given it 5 stars, but the ending disappointed me... Read it and see what you think.
Abbie Machia
The Little Giant of Aberdeen County by Tiffany Baker
I really enjoyed this book! It was beautifully written and the story line was wonderful! The story is about a woman who has been overweight her entire life, and how to deal with that and other issues that arise within the story. A must read! I loved it so much I had to read more from this author!
Jud Hanson
The Abyss by David Hagberg
A great book with a dynamite plot -- religious zealots vs. scientists.
Kathleen Martocci
Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys
An excellent novel based on the Soviets displacing Lithuanian residents to Siberia to live and toil in work camps in 1941.
Sandy McCullough
Kill Alex Cross by James Patterson
Summary: Detective Alex Cross is thwarted at every turn while he attempts to investigate the abduction of the president's son and daughter. He also discovers a deadly contagion released in the capital's water supply that foreshadows a larger, more devastating attack. I always love this author because his chapters are so short, so I can pick it up and read a chapter and then go back to the housework!
Cindy Norton
Mission Flats by William Landay
Good story - it is Landay's debut novel. There are some unbelievable actions, but all in all it was a good read with some unexpected twists.
Simonne
The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
Just a very different book. Lots of mystery and intrigue. Still reading it, so don't know where it is all leading....
Simonne
The Sandcastle Girls by Chris Bohjalian
A woman discovers her Armenian heritage by reliving her Grandparents meeting and falling in love during the time of the Armenian/Turkish Civil War. So far, so good, but pretty sad. (Too bad it is true.)
Julie H
Austentatious by Alyssa Goodnight
Nicola James has lived in Austin, Texas for almost eight years and has yet to live on the weird side. The annual SXSW festival is about to arrive, and this year, Nicola's life plan will be taking a big turn. Nicola discovers a journal in an antique shop while looking for a gift. When she writes in it, her words are edited down and replaced by wisdom from the godmother of romance, Jane Austen. This romance screams fun as it is chocked full of pop culture and Austin landmarks. A very fun rom-com read.
Julie H.
Mr. Penumbra's 24-Hour bookstore by Robin Sloan
I want to run away and work there. If you liked The Night Circus and Ready Player One, you're in for a treat.
Lorna
The Last Time I Saw You by Elizabeth Berg
I did not enjoy this tale about "adults" preparing to attend their 40th class reunion. They were acting like a bunch of high school kids getting ready to go to a school dance. I gave it 100 pages and I was done.
Brianna Ayer
Beautiful Disaster by Jamie McGuire
Jamie McGuire wrote an AMAZING novel, "Beautiful Disaster." This 5 STAR book was simply fabulous! I love the characters so much, especially male lead Travis Maddox. I really liked the lead female, Abby Abernathy, as well. I just loved everything about this book, and I definitely recommend it to people looking for a great read. It is about college-age people. This book should be added to your to be read list!
Gina
The Secret Keeper by Kate Morton
This is one of those books that jumps back and forth in time and has a number of characters.
This usually means that I can't keep things straight but not in this case. The book twists and turns and has cliffhanger endings at the end of chapters (like the old Nancy Drew novels). It was a delight. There is suspense, mystery and romance. The ending is ingenious. Worth your time.
Cindy parry
The Christmas Sweater by Glenn Beck
My favorite book ever.
Laurie Carlson
A Merry Little Christmas by Anita Higman
Love comes when we least expect it, let alone to have it literally dropped onto our front porch!
It is the 1960s, and classic Christmas music fills the air. It's right before Thanksgiving and Franny, a spunky, fun, life-loving woman, wants to sell her family farm to be able to go live her life's dreams. A buyer, Charlie comes to the farm looking to buy it. Instantly, these two feel there is something special between the two of them. Charlie purchases the farm, but asks Franny to stay on at the farm for an additional 3 weeks to help him learn the ropes of farming and she agrees. Feelings are exchanged between the two, but nothing is said aloud, until one day love just might happen, regardless of anything that could ever get in the way.
Rhonda Lomazow
Every Contact Leaves a Trace by Elanor Dymott
An eerie, beautifully written novel.
susan Spencer
The Blood of Flowers by Anita Amirrezvani
I love the history in this book, and it is interesting to read about rug-making in the seventeenth century.
Muriel Logan
The Pigeon Pie Mystery by Julia Stuart
This murder mystery set in Victorian England was hard for me to get into. The characters are kind of quirky and there is some subtle humor, but for me it was a slower paced book throughout . After the midway point my interest was piqued and I did want to find out who murdered Major-General Bagshot, but I found myself just waning to be done with the book so I could read something else.
Meg Gefflken
The Dovekeepers by Alice Hoffman
Fascinating read - the "legend" of Masada has always been intriguing; presented by Hoffman it is riveting.
Allison Gardner
The Mistress of Spices by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni
Great Story!
Francisca E B
Flowers for Algernon by Daniel Keyes
Heartbreaking and inspirational. Mentally retarded Charlie Gordon gets a chance to be smart and teaches us all about the dignity of the individual.
Francisca E B
The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie by Alan Bradley
Chemistry whiz Flavia de Luce is unlike any other detective in literature; she’s a bit like a cross between Sherlock Holmes and Nancy Drew. When she finds a body in the cucumber patch she simply MUST solve the mystery and keep her father out of jail! What I like about her is her intelligence and unstoppable curiosity. I do agree that there are some problems with the mystery. Flavia really can’t solve it alone, and there’s a lot of background detail that bogs down the story line. But I found it a really interesting premise and I fell in love with Flavia. Jayne Entwistle is spot-on perfect in performing the audio book. She brings Flavia to life without making her sound irritating or too mature.
Janice Hoaglin
Tethered by Amy MacKinnon
This is a beautifully written, mesmerizing debut novel. Clara is an undertaker, whose traumatic past makes her extremely guarded in all human interactions, and who spends most of her time with the dead. The story of both Clara's past, the murder investigation she becomes embroiled in, and how she gradually opens herself to others, all unfold with subtlety and shadow. On the heels of having read "The Language of Flowers", it was a treat to read another book that made use of the meaning attached to various species of flowers and plants. And the book has a magical, wonderful ending. I hope this author writes more.
Jean M
Buried Bones by Carolyn Haines
The Southern Belle mysteries is a fun series. Sarah Booth Delaney, is an unconventional Southern Belle in Zinnia, Mississippi. She has a ghost for a companion and the dialogue between them is fun to read. This is a series that is currently still being added to.
Jeff
Bring Up the Bodies by Hilary Mantel
Better than Wolf Hall, and that's saying something!
Jean M
Shadows on the Sand by Gayle G. Roper
This story starts with a young restaurant co-owner, Carrie Carter. Her sister is the co-owner. Grey, a former policeman is a regular customer whom she wishes would notice her. This is a believable story, well-told.
Jean M
Night Rounds by Helene Tursten
This is an exciting series about a policewoman in Sweden. We see her everyday personal problems as well as her work problems. This is well written and exciting.
Janet P Bedell
Love Anthony by Lisa Genova
A really sensitive look at relationships and unconditional love. I've read many books dealing with autism and I truly believe that Lisa Genova gets it right when she occupies the mind of Anthony.
Betty Ralph
The Twelve Rooms of the Nile by Enid Shomer
An imagined encounter in 1850 between Florence Nightingale and Gustave Flaubert brings to life the social mores of the time and the beautiful land and sights along the Nile River in Egypt. The characters seem very real; their conversations and sharing of thoughts are very moving as each struggles with her/his own inner conflicts. If you like historical fiction, you will be drawn into the life of this well-written book.
Elizabeth Vollbach
Serena by Ron Rash
Serena is married to Pemberton, co-owner of a lumber company, in 1929 North Carolina. From the start, you will see that the two deserve each other; they are both ruthlessly ambitious. And then you will see that Serena is much more than ruthless, and Pemberton, as mean as he is, didn't know what he got himself into. Throughout the book, Rash describes characters and scenery so well, but he doesn’t do much with plot until after a couple hundred pages. However, please DO STICK WITH IT. There IS plot as well as character development. It is an excellent story, and it DOES get unputdownable.
Anne Marie Koschnick
Wicked Business by Janet Evenovich
Wicked Business is the second in the Lizzy and Diesel novels. It's done in the same vein as the Numbers series, light mystery with a comic undertone, but has more of a supernatural bent. I read the first one in our book club, but I usually like to read at least two in a series (or from an author) before I form a judgment about it. Would I read another one? Probably just to see what happens with the supernatural puzzle, but it wouldn't be a priority. I prefer books that are heavier in forensics and mystery, but as my girlfriend would say, this is mind candy - a light, fluffy book that is a good read when you don't want to concentrate on a hardcore mystery.
Elizabeth Vollbach
Buddy: How a Rooster Made Me a Family Man by Brian McGrory
The first half of the book is about McGrory's dog Harry. I loved reading about Harry but was wondering when I'd learn what he had to do with the title character. So this is pretty much what the book is: nonfiction presented in many short stories, first, about Harry, then about the rooster, Buddy, and McGrory's new family, all in chronological order. McGrory contrasts his two lives, and often recalls Harry during the Buddy stories.
I would have preferred that this book was one story rather than a series of episodes.
Kathryn
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
It took me a few chapters to get into this book but then I kept wanting to skip some (don't do that!) to jump ahead. It is a book like none I have read before, and it grabbed my attention. Consider more than the characters and the story, but the commentary about our own lives as well.
veronica mackinnon
The Story of Beautiful Girl by Rachel Simon
One of the best books I have ever read. You were hooked from the beginning. The story is set in the 1950s, when a young white girl and a young black man flee from a " school" for " mentally challenged young people"
Kay Norman
Cutting for Stone by Abraham Verghese
This is a family drama with a lot of twists and interesting settings and characters that I really cared about.
Holly Biggs
Alice in Zombieland by Gena Showalter
A thrilling story about Alice, a girl who lost all she ever cared about, and her power to overcome her fears. She realizes the monsters are real, and she may have the power to end it all. Or does she? Filled with action, suspense, a little romance, and zombies... Alice in Zombieland was surprisingly amazing!!
Arthur Harriman
A Gentle Murderer by Dorothy Salisbury Davis
Murder will out. Here the 'outing' results from two independent investigations - one by a priest who has heard a mysterious confession and the other by a police officer. In this leisurely novel, It is somewhat as though the 'gentle murderer' is a Raskolnikov, tracked down by Father Brown as well as by the authorities.
Pat Pascale
Zoo by James Patterson
Have been a James Patterson fan for many years but this one was not my kind of reading. In fact, I actually had nightmares while reading it. We have always been a two dog family and especially did not like the parts of the plot that included dogs. Also love animals--all animals--and the portrayal of many of then left me unnerved. Put the book down several times but finished it and I give it only one star as Mr. Patterson will do better next time.
Pamela Moore
The Light Between Oceans by M. L. Stedman
This book made for a long night because I couldn't put it down. There is just enoughsetting to make the reader see it: an island set 100 miles from the southwestern coast of Australia after WWI. The one-square-mile island at the juncture of the Great Southern Ocean and the Indian Ocean is home to a lighthouse and a young couple, Tom and Isabel. As war veteran Tom carefully tends the light, Isabel tends baby Lucy. The unraveling plot yields more pain and devastation than the couple can handle until they learn to live the life they have. As the narrator says, "Every end is the beginning of something else." This story will remain in my mind for a long, long time.
Ann A. Wood
Row Well and Live by James E. Haley
A light hearted, funny coming-of-age and falling-in-love novel juxtaposed against the deadly serious backdrop of the Cold War and delightfully flavored with fantasies of mortal assistance from a historic super spy conjured up out of sheer desperation through the daydreams of its young protagonist.
Linda
Carry the One by Carol Anshaw
I grew to like this book more and more, the longer I read. The style was interesting. I never was convinced that the accident was such a pivotal moment; The more I read, the more I thought they would have all turned out the same, even if there were no accident.
Sherry Oliver
How to Be a Woman by Caitlin Moran
"How to Be a Woman" -- a must-read for all girls.
Mary
A Walk Across the Sun by Corban Addison
Well written fiction book about human trafficking. I'd actually give the book 4.5 stars if that were an option (I rarely give 5 stars). The book has two story lines that intersect which help to make the book easier to read. Although it is not a subject I would normally have wanted to read about, this was a very compelling read.
Elizabeth Vollbach
Playing Dead by Julia Heaberlin
This is a good mystery/thriller. Tommie searches for clues about the secrets her mother and father kept from her all her life. Along the way, she discovers mystery upon mystery.
But, assuming Heaberlin will write more books, I'd like to see a couple of changes.First, the story contained some unanswered questions. Successful mysteries/thrillers tie up loose ends.Second, I had to make myself accept that Tommie could be a highly educated psychologist and PhD candidate who walks into situations she knows to be dangerous. I'd like to reconcile Tommie's actions with her intelligence.
Mary
The Orchardist by Amanda Coplin
This is a well-written novel about an orchardist who takes in two girls that show up on his orchard one day and how they affect his life.
Paige Weiner
The Glass Castle by Jeanette Walls
This book was so good, I kept forgetting it was an autobiography.
Marie-Louise Molloy
The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
Magical and mysterious!
Elizabeth Vollbach
Trust Your Eyes by Linwood Barclay
The first and biggest problem with this book is that nothing happens until after 200 pages. There are too many sentence fragments throughout the book. Although many authors successfully go back and forth in time, Barclay does it suddenly. So you don't know until you are a few sentences/paragraphs in that you are a few weeks back from where you just were.
Barclay uses too many tired phrases,such as "He took two stairs at a time." There are too many coincidences. It takes too long for the two stories in this book to come together.
Barclay seems to try too hard to have snappy dialog. It comes across as unrealistic.
There are more problems in addition to these seven I cited above.
Anna Lowther
Son by Lois Lowry
Lois Lowry is such a good author of science fiction. I'm halfway through and I can't put it down.
Kim Bacon
The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh
Enjoyed reading this one, even as it took me on the journey of an abandoned child through the foster system into adulthood. Her innate talent with flowers becomes her connection with others and a unique way of communication, which was interesting to learn. A very different coming of age through hardship novel. Great for discussion!
Bonnie Gluhanich
Orphan Train by Christina Baker Kline
I was lucky enough to receive an Advance Reader's Edition of this spellbinding novel (coming out in April 2013). It's based on the true story of the orphan trains that brought children to the midwest in the early part of the 20th century. The novel juxtaposes the stories of Vivian, one of the orphans on this train, with a contemporary "orphan", Molly, and how their lives intersect. Great read!
Kelley Tackett
The Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman
This book broke my heart, but broke it in such a way that I couldn't put this book down. What an amazing story. If you are a mother, you will think about what choice you would make if you had found yourself in such a situation. I don't want to give anything away. Read this book now.
Julie H.
Death of a Neighborhood Witch by Laura Levine
Jaine Austen remains close to home in this Halloween themed mystery. A new (handsome) neighbor seems to draw everyone out of doors in Jaine's area. The reclusive and crabby Cryptessa Muldoon, star of a now-defunct tv show, seems to have made plenty of enemies on this quiet street. Neighbor Lance is humorous and fussy as always and Jaine's parents, their escapades detailed via email, are always amusing too.
Julie H.
The Good Woman by Jane Porter
Meg Brennan Roberts is a woman who seems to be on the verge of a mid-life crisis. The oldest, most capable sister in a traditional family moved smoothly into love, marriage, and motherhood, meeting architect/ husband Jack in college. Meg feels as probably many do at one time or another, both unappreciated yet necessary to the workings of their families. Throw in the rest of the Brennan family and their issues, it's no wonder Meg is headed for some sort of much needed break, although it's probably poorly executed. I look forward to Porter's continuing stories of this family through other sisters.
Julie H.
Hiss and Hers by M.C. Beaton
I liked this installment of the Agatha Raisin series, all of the regular characters are in play, from Mrs. Bloxby's calming nature to Charles Fraith's inattentiveness. The poor village of Carsely has really seen its share of murder, and the townspeople seem to vacillate between putting up with Agatha's bumbling, or shutting her out.
Julie H.
The Meryl Streep Movie Club by Mia March
I was immediately hooked by the premise of this book--that movie nights for the current month at Lolly Weller's bed and breakfast are incorporating Meryl Streep movies. I found I had forgotten some titles she has starred in and definitely remembered some old favorites. Although the symbolism was a bit heavy at times, I enjoyed each young woman's discoveries about their lives via Meryl Streep and each other.
Julie H.
Ocean Beach by Wendy Wax
The lives of three women, upended by a Ponzi-like scheme in a previous book, intersect again as they head to a run down home called The Millicent to renovate for a shot at a cable tv show. The cable network has other ideas, of course, and the addition of more cameramen take this to a more reality show level. Maddie, Avery and Nicole all struggle with various family issues as the point of view moves back and forth from one to another. I liked that Maddie's daughter Kyra's story was continued as well and enjoyed the descriptions of the nautical/deco style house. The owner, Max Golden, former vaudeville star, brought another nice angle to the story.
Julie H.
City of Women by David Gillham
This wasn't the type of historical fiction story I was expecting from the description on the flyleaf. I thought it would be more cohesive and about the home life of women in Berlin during the War. I never really identified very well with Sigrid and her motives even before the war was causing such chaos. I did appreciate some of the historical tidbits, like how Berlin, too, suffered nighttime bombing raids and extreme rationing, just like other parts of Europe did at the hands of the Germans.
Julie H.
Bad Little Falls by Paul Doiron
Returning for a third story, game warden Mike Bowditch has been sent to what seems to be the Siberia of Maine. Poachers, drug dealers, speeding snowmobilers and organized hunts make Machias and Township nineteen full of everyday, big city problems. A frozen corpse has the game warden again trying to assist the police in a homicide case. Doiron does such a great job of depicting these small townspeople without making complete caricatures of them. Bowditch gets plenty of grief for sticking his nose into things that aren't his business, which is really business as usual for him.
Lori Bednaz
The Buffalo Soldier by Chris Bohjalian
Excellent author!
Julie Towson
Fall of Giants by Ken Follett
I'm only about 10% into this book but can't wait to get to it again after I put it down. I really like Ken Follet's writing and I've read a lot of his work. This story begins in 1911 in Wales. It features five families whose lives intertwine. Some are very wealthy and some are miners trying to survive and feed their families. It's the first in a trilogy and will be a continuing saga that will span the entire 20th century.
Crystal Blackburn
Murder, She Wrote: Madison Avenue Shoot by Jessica Fletcher & Donald Bain
Jessica Fletcher, the character from the Murder, She Wrote television series, visits her nephew Grady and his family in NYC. Of course, there is a murder!
Sharon Gruby
Son by Lois Lowry
This is the fourth book in The Giver series. Although written for upper elementary and junior high grade students, I was riveted by this book as I was by all of the. Series. As a sixth grade teacher,I found much to discuss with my students while reading The Giver. As a retiree, my goal was to be entertained while reading Son. I was and I had much to think about.
Dawn Byers
The Racketeer by John Grisham
Of course this book would be a bestseller - John Grisham always writes a thriller that keeps you turning the pages.
Dawn Byers
Dead Simple by Peter James
I have never read a book that has stuck in my mind for this long after I read it. The book is so real and intriguing, you will have to sleep with the lights on. And the ending -- omg -- what a great book
Dawn Byers
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
This was a great book, captivating, each page left you wondering -- did he murder his wife -- I was a little disappointed at the ending, but then in thinking about it, it was a good ending. So true. This was a great read. Simply a page turner
Joanne Latva
It's Getting Ugly Out There by Jack Cafferty
I like his comments about politics and appreciate his take.
Coral Harrison
The Bartender's Tale by Ivan Doig
A good adventure tale about Tom Harry, who had a bar at Fort Peck and then The Medicine Lodge in Gros Ventre in Northern Montana. The "I" in the book is his son Rusty, "an accident between the sheets" who was deserted by his mother when he was two months old. Rusty is twelve years old in the main part of the book. He struggles to understand. He has a friend, Zoe, who is his age and her parents run a restaurant. It is a very good book and fun to read and hard to lay down.
Amanda de Forest
The Yellow Birds by Kevin Powers
A beautiful, haunting book that made me all the more in awe of the sacrifices people make for others.
Rena Ackley
The Weed That Strings the Hangman's Bag by Alan Bradley
An intriguing tale featuring the ever-precocious eleven year-old Flavia de Luce whose keen interest in chemistry, particularly poisons, make her both an aid and a bane to the detectives. There is always murder, a bit of science, history, and the angst of three girls growing up without a mother and with a father who is consumed with stamp collecting and trying to keep the old manor afloat. Chock full of quirky characters, most with secrets yet to be revealed.
Flo Lindstrom
The Innocent Man by John Grisham
This is my book club's book for November. I have not finished the book, but it is certainly
keeping my interest to find out who the guilty man is. We are also reading another of John
Grisham's books, "Skipping Christmas," for December.
David Rudy
Gandhi, An Autobiography by Mohandas K. Gandhi
The subtitle is "The Story of My Experiments with Truth". He gives significant insight into his spiritual growth, and the impact he had in the world. I enjoyed seeing how his mind moved from his early years to his later life impacting those in his world that needed help. I am not yet through with the book, but I have learned so much. Mahatma Gandhi had so much impact in South Africa and India.
Fran
Child 44 by Tom Rob Smith
Set in post WWII Stalinist Russia, Child 44 has something for everyone. A political thriller, a compelling mystery and a bit of rekindled romance -- a real page turner!
Francisca E B
Death at La Fenice by Donna Leon
the first book in the series. Great debut featuring Commissario Guido Brunetti. Who killed the Maestro after act two of "La Traviata"? He was an acknowledged musical genius, though he'd certainly made enemies.
Tessa B
The Cricket in Times Square by George Selden
Tender story of friendship and loyalty starring an unlikely trio - Chester the Cricket, Tucker the Mouse, and Harry the Cat. And the boy Mario who understands.
Pattie Berryhill
The Other Woman by Hank Phillippi Ryan
This book held my interest until the end. It makes you think.
Janet Nydegger
Rod: The Autobiography by Rod Stewart
I have listened to Rod Stewart's music for forever but all I knew about him personally was that he likes football (soccer) and blondes. His autobiography is very candid and revealing. It is written with humor but no apologies. I enjoyed it very much and that is why I gave it five stars. If you are not a fan of Rod Stewart it is probably only a two-star book .
Sandy McCullough
No Time for Goodbye by Linwood Barclay
Loved this book! 14 year old Cynthia Bigge woke one morning to discover that her entire family - mother, father, and older brother had vanished. No note, no trace, no return. Ever. Now 25 years later, she'll learn the devastating truth. Sometimes it's better not to know.
I wanted to flip to the end so many times, but I didn't. Now I want to read everything this author has written.
Shari
The Spectacular Now by Tim Tharp
A high school senior trying to live his life, thinking he is popular and funny while he is actually just a barely functioning drunk. His dad left the family when he was young, When Sutter finds his dad, he is not prepared for what he finds. I found this book to be slow moving and really without a point.
Lori
The Intercept by Dick Wolf
I received an ARC of this book. It was a fun and exciting read, but didn't add much to the genre. I had the impression I'd read similar stories already. I felt like I didn't really get much insight into the main character, but he did a good job with other characters.
Debbie M
The Cove by Ron Rash
The setting is during WWI in a rural, mountain community in NC that is full of superstition and prejudice. Hank and Laurel Shelton work the land and nurse the physical deformities that each contains. Hank has lost a hand to the war and Laurel has birthmarks that the community believes to be the markings of a witch. Only one old man of the community befriends this brother and sister, until a mute stranger appears. Of course, the reader is given a little insight into the stranger to know that he is hiding something. The language is poetic like the running of a mountain spring, but as with the mountains, the ending is difficult to swallow.
Dawn M. Thayer
The Hobbit by J. R. R. Tolkien
A must re-read before the movie release!
Debbie M
A Christmas Garland by Anne Perry
I love to read Christmas stories during the holiday season, and have always enjoyed Anne Perry. This book was a disappointment, as the characters were flat and the story not too interesting. The ending of the story was out of Agatha Christie or Perry Mason, with the solution offered just before the condemned is carted away. Perry does focus on the problems of the uprisings in India in 1857, and hits upon the mixed feelings between the English and the Indians. This book was not as festive as I had anticipated.
Jodie
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
Once again I find myself on the opposite side of a vast amount of people. While this book is EXTREMELY well written, the truly despicable and genuinely unlikeable nature of just about every single character in it make this book difficult to like. I do love Flynn's style and her skill at crafting a gripping narrative. She's truly a gifted writer.
Peggy
Mrs. Kennedy and Me by Clint Hill
A very heartwarming story about Jackie Kennedy & her secret service agent assigned to her while in the White House.
Marsha
Moloka'i by Alan Brennert
This is the haunting story of a 7 year old girl sent to Moloka'i when it was discovered she had Hansen's disease or leprosy. Her life in the island is lovingly detailed. Your heart strings will be tugged as she grows into womanhood and spreads her love to those in the community. It is a moving and memorable account of a community that very few of us know. The characters are beautifully and vividly drawn and a testament to the resiliency of the human spirit.
Crystal Blackburn
Off the Grid: A Monkeewrench Novel by P.J. Tracy
The fifth book in the Monkeewrench series is fast-paced and interesting.
Marie Ledin
Hostile Witness by Rebecca Forster
Captured my attention from the very beginning. Good murder mystery/thriller with a bit of romance. Will read this author again.
Booklover2
The Paris Wife by Paula McLain
Great book. Flowed easily. Very interesting.
Lea Ann Morris
Lots of Candles, Plenty of Cake by Anna Quindlen
Ms. Quindlen writes a brief memoir touching on many aspects of her life, but more about turning 60 than anything else. She writes beautifully. Her thoughts on growing older are honest and gentle. They do not appeal only to those in "the golden years" but to those who have them yet to come. Her notes about her family are engaging. All in all a book worth taking the time to savor.
Brenda K.
A Land More Kind Than Home by Wiley Cash
I read this book because I enjoyed the early reviews of it. I found the characters to be okay; they were not as developed as I like for this type of story. The story itself was very interesting. I do plan to keep my eyes open for this author again in the future.
Judy O.
One Mississippi by Mark Childress
Daniel and Tim are high school best friends in Mississippi during times of integration problems. Arnita is a beautiful black girl, and she and Daniel fall in love. Of course this causes all kinds of problems. At times this book is very funny and at others very dark and tragic. I found it to be compelling reading.
Carol Stroup
Wife 22 by Melanie Gideon
Great read for those of you who are not well versed in Facebook and electronic communication. Very intriguing and it will bring up all kinds of emotions, especially if you are in the middle of the middle age set.
Paula Carlson
The Chaperone by Laura Moriarty
Fantastic book that was very well written paying attention to specifics of an earlier era. Hard to put down!
Gayle Lin
In the Shadow of the Banyan by Vaddey Ratner
If there were bonus stars available, I'd give them to this book. It's a fictionalized story based on the author's own life experiences. Rammi was a young child of seven years when Cambodia was thrown into chaos by the beginning of a revolution. Her father was of royal blood and a poet and he was taken from his family and never seen again. Rammi, her mother, younger sister, and other family members were moved from place to place. They suffered through times of starvation, forced labor and were threatened with execution. I don't want to give away any of the story. For four years the madness continued with some things almost too horrible to comprehend.
Marsha
Silent Mercy by Linda Fairstein
This may be Fairstein's best Prosecutor Alexandra Cooper novel yet. She deftly weaves history of New York, its architectural history, and religious institutions as the team searches for a serial killer.
Robin McKay
Murder in Provence by Susan Kiernan-Lewis
In Murder in Provence, the reader finds Maggie, an American, living in France with her husband. However, Maggie is at loose ends. While Laurent is busy attending to the vineyard, Maggie has nothing to do. To fill her time, she decides to write a French cookbook. But since Maggie can’t cook, this is quite a challenge. Through her friend Grace, she meets Marie and Rene, their daughters Brigitte and Pijou, and Brigitte’s husband Yves. Maggie and Brigitte hit it off and Brigitte offers to introduce Maggie to someone who might inspire her in the writing of her book. Unfortunately, Brigitte is murdered, then Pijou is poisoned. Maggie turns her attention to ferreting out the culprit. Along the way she meets and is drawn to a French policeman.
Robin McKay
Frozen Heat by Richard Castle
If you like the TV show, you have to love the books. Frozen Heat doesn't disappoint. The chase for the person responsible for the death of Nikki Heat's mother 10 years ago takes center stage in this newest Nikki Heat book.
Katharine Walczak
Out Stealing Horses by Per Petterson
A great discussion book for book clubs touching on coming of age, solitude, memory, past and future...so many themes. Interesting characters. Writing that is slow and descriptive and then, when the reader isn't expecting it, throws in a phrase or an event that surprises.
Jud Hanson
Lost Girls by Bob Mayer
Great book by the author of "Jefferson Allegiance."
Wendy Catalano
A Door In The River by Inger Ash Wolfe
This is the 3rd book in Inger Ash Wolfe's, "Hazel Micallef Mystery series" and the next book couldn't be written soon enough.
Hazel Micallef is a 62 year old police chief of a small Ontario town and she has to be one of my favorite characters of all-time. She is divorced, strong-willed, quirky and I can't seem to get enough of her.
This novel also includes some of the characters we are familiar with from the previous books in the series, and now I have grown more attached to them.
The story begins with murder and then evolves into another crime that is quite different and totally unexpected.
I really enjoyed the mystery, the subplots are gripping and the ending has left me anxiously awaiting the continuation of this series.
sharon kozinn
Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston
A drama set in the 1920s, where free-spirited Janie Crawford's search for happiness leads her through several different marriages, challenging the morals of her small town.
ck
The Panther by Nelson DeMille
In the "gospel according to DeMille", the panther was responsible for the attack on the USS Cole. John Corey had been in Yemin right after that bombing and he returns with Kate and a team to GET the panther. Lots of DeMille humor...some interesting information such as his theory on why an American would decide to become a Muslim terrorist...but way too long and too predictable.
Patricia Carson
Leaves by Michael Baron
Just started...but,it is so interesting...I can't put it down!!!
Sunnymay
Still Alice by Lisa Genova
Compelling true story about a professor who get Alzheimer's and gradually realizes the changes happening and the inability to use long sentences. I like that she found a way to use reminders to get through her daily routines.
Bree Ervin
Double Vision by F.T. Bradley
The DaVinci Code for kids. Great high paced romp through Paris with a boy who doesn't have to go looking for trouble, because trouble always seems to know just where to find him. Wonderful character development, great voice and the trip through my favorite city was unforgettable. My daughters loved reading this book with me and we are now planning a Double Vision trip through Paris!
Gil
Unknown by Didier van Cauwelaert
It was a good book. I liked it. Intriguing story about Martin Harris who loses his complete identity to another person after waking up from a coma caused by an auto accident where he almost drowns. He has lost his passport and all other means of identification. He cannot prove that he even exists. On top of that, his wife claims to not knowing him in favor of the assumed impostor. One wonders which one is the real Martin Harris.
Lori
Princess Elizabeth's Spy by Susan Elia MacNeal
I enjoyed this book as much as its predecessor, Mr. Churchill's Secretary. It was a good depiction of wartime England, and I enjoyed continuing the story of the various characters. It reminds me of the Maisie Dobbs books (which I love), and I look forward to the next in the series.
Susan Yoneda
Mrs Queen Takes the Train by William Kuhn
This fictional account of Queen Elizabeth II made her seem more like a "real" person with emotions and concern for others. Where my previous image of her is an old lady wearing a boring looking suit who likes to wave to crowds. Some of the supporting cast seemed quite eccentric but maybe are so very British that an American doesn't understand them.
Wendy Catalano
What Happens At Christmas by Victoria Alexander
What a wonderful read!
Not normally a fan of Christmas stories, however this book will have to go on my list of all-time favorites. From the first page until the very end I was pulled into the setting, the lives of the characters and the events as they were unfolding.
The story centers around Camille who decides to hire actors to play the role of her family in order to impress a foreign prince who wants to experience an English Christmas. When a man from Camille's past knocks on her door her plans are thrown into utter chaos and that is only the beginning.
The characters were wonderfully developed and I can't remember the last time I laughed so much while reading a book.
Fun and lighthearted this book is a must read!
Renee' Booker
The Last Boyfriends by Nora Roberts
It was nice for me to read a book about family in a world where family closeness is a thing of the past.
Marie Ledin
Vengeance at Port Royal by Brett Licciardello
Pirates, murder, and revenge. Some poor spelling and use of incorrect words. Probably would not read any other books of this author.
Marsha
Low Pressure by Sandra Brown
When Bellamy Lyston writes a best seller detailing her sister's murder, everyone who was close to the situation is put on notice. She becomes the target of an assailant and her sister's boyfriend who was a suspect is also targeted. Together they search for the real killer as the one sent to prison seems to have been railroaded by the police and prosecutors.
Reva Wamsley
The Flu by Jacqueline Druga
This book started out slow but then I got really caught up in the characters. By the end of the book, I was in tears.
This is about a flu virus that starts out in Alaska & is as bad as a flu can get. The contagion & death rate is way up there. It spreads to the lower states & then across the country.
This book is about a small town in Ohio who decides they are not going to get the flu so they baracade the town. The main characters are the police chief, his girlfriend & her children.
Heidi Kane
Unbroken by Laure Hillenbrand
If you haven't read it yet, read it NOW! A truly remarkable story.
BJ Deese
No One Left to Tell by Karen Rose
Even though I have just started this book, I absolutely know it will get 5 stars! Karen Rose is one of the best suspense authors, and I love her!
Sandy McCullough
The Flight of Gemma Hardy by Margot Livesey
Very good! Gemma is quite a girl.
Lynn Hough
Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn
This is my least favorite of Gillian Flynn's books. It was her first though so obviously she has improved. There were just SO many things I didn't like about the main character and her actions. I think the story would have been better without the excessive drinking and adult drug use with minors.
Donna
A History Of Ghosts by Peter H. Aykroyd and Angela Narth
This is the true story of Seances, Mediums, Ghosts & Ghostbusters. It's filled with interesting information and the true story of how the Aykroyd's got involved with the Metaphysical. I am enjoying this book.
Donna
Channeling: What It Is and How To Do It by Lita De Alberdi
If you are interested in Channeling and how it works, you will enjoy the guidance in this book. It is very informative and can elminate any fears you may have of trying it.
Diana Thomas
Her Little Majesty by Carolly Erickson
A good, quick (compaired to some of the books I've read on her) biography of Queen Victoria. This books doesn't pull any punches, it shows both her bad and good sides in equal measures. I've never read a bad book by this author, and picked this one up just because of the authors name being on the cover. If you enjoy Royal biographies this is a good one for you.
Jane Squires
Duke: Deputy Cowboy by Roz Denny Fox
What an adventure! It has been sometime since I read a book by Roz. I am ready for another one.
Dylan "Duke" Adams is a part-time deputy as well as loves rodeo. A string of burglaries takes him out to Angie Barrington's abused animal Ranch. It's love at first sight. But there are hindrances.
Angie's son, Luke, stutters which Duke can relate to. Luke adores, Zorrow, Duke's dog. This adventure begins here at the Ranch. Things happen that will change three lives forever. Love is what makes a person care deeply for another person enough to change plans at times.
Dorothy Flood
Come Home by Lisa Scottoline
I just discovered Lisa Scottoline and I'm really enjoying her. Come Home is the story of a divorced woman who had 3 step daughers, children of her husband and one child from her first marriage. She is now engaged to another man. When she divorced her second husband he wouldn't allow her to have any contact with his children, whom she loved very much. The step daugher turned up her door one night drunk and told her that her father was dead and she believed him to have been murdered even though the police said there was no foul play. Then the step daughter disappears and she goes in search of the murderer. Good read.
Sharron
The Racketeer by John Grisham
Started out okay--typical Grisham. Attorney "done wrong" and in prison. He devises a plan to get out by giving much desired info to FBI and goes into witness protection. Story became too long and tedious, as well as obvious.
Maureen H
The Keeper of Lost Causes by Jussi Adler-Olsen
Great mystery loved it!!
Harriet Stay
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
"Dark, macabre, twisted, gripping thriller" are terms used to describe Gillian Flynn's body of work, three so far. Also noted: "narrative driven, sharp writing, and sharper insights." All true.What you think you know or feel about the main characters, Nick Dunne and Amy Elliot, is constantly in motion. I believe a debate will continue about the conclusion to the story; some agreeing, some hating it, some thinking it may have been perfect. My feelings change the longer I think about it, and isn't that a wonderful gift the author has given me.
Harriet Stay
Bitter Water by Gordon Ferris
I loved his first crime novel about crime reporter Douglas Brodie. Brodie's background is former policeman and ex-soldier. Glasgow, Scotland, in 1946 is the setting and Ferris brings the era, city, and inhabitants vibrantly to life. I find that at times when a first novel packs such a punch, if the second doesn't quite meet that standard, I'm disappointed, but it doesn't mean I will give up on looking for his next novel. Sometimes it's just a particular story, his writing is still top notch.
Rebecca Porter
Recon by Raymond A Porter
Great fast paced read with lots of twists and turns, with an unexpected twist at the end. Cannot wait to read anything else from the same author.
