Lynn Demsky
The Red Hat Society's Acting Their Age by Regina Hale Sutherland
This was really an enjoyable, cute, great characters, good plot, well-written story about ladies in the Red Hat Society finding their place in life! Has a really happy ending also which is probably more fairy tale but still a great read!
Andy Mendelsohn
Detroit City Is the Place to Be by Mark Binelli
Very entertaining and emotive look at the rise and fall and further fall of a great American City. Yet, the writer refuses to allow us to give up on the place. The writing is witty, heartfelt and somewhat hopeful.
Susan Johnson
The Aviator's Wife by Melanie Benjamin
This book reallys sings about the real life of Anne Morrow Lindbergh who led an action packed life. Married to a national hero, a pilot, author, a woman who lived through the kidnapping and death of her oldest child, an early victim of press attention and yet who struggled to find her place in life. A very provocative read that warms your heart.
Coral Harrison
Ed King by David Guterson
I couldn't quit reading this book, but did not like it. Too much going on and too many people doing things they shouldn't. If you have time to waste, read it.
Lynn Jarrett
Flight Behavior by Barbara Kingsolver
Kingsolver is one of my favorite authors. I am a little over 75 pages into Flight Behavior and just cannot get into it, hence the reason for the three stars. I hope to devote a chunk of time to reading this weekend. I cannot recall a time in the past that Kingsolver has let me down so I am still hopeful.
Dorothy Boyum
Defending Jacob by William Landay
Excellent book - I recommend it to all my friends.
Janice Baly
Oink: My Life with Mini-Pigs by Matt Whyman
This book is an entertaining memoir by a writer who lives in the English countryside with his wife, four children, cat, dog and chickens. His wife decides she would like to add two mini-pigs to their household.
Kathleen Carn
City of Saints by Andrew Hunt
This won a Tony Hillerman Award. I enjoyed reading it. I live in Utah and it was interesting to read a mystery placed in 1930 Salt Lake City. It's a good mystery and I recommend it to everyone who likes a mystery.
Pat Burdick
The Forgotten by David Baldacci
Intrigue, suspense and a little romance. Once you begin you will not want to stop reading.
Stacey K
The Second Empress by Michelle Moran
Michelle Moran does it again! I think she is the greatest writer of historical fiction in the current market. The story of Napoleon & his second wife, Marie-Louise, is so realistic, it's hard to believe that any of it is fiction. I can't wait for her next book!
Allison Gardner
Anybody Out There by Marian Keyes
Looks good, but I just started to read it.
Mary Rodriguez
Shadow Dragon by Lance Horton
For those who enjoy reading a good thriller book.
Dian Boysen
The Last Child by John Hart
One of the best mysteries I've read in a while. He gets the reader caught from the very beginning and takes you on a suspenseful journey. The main character's twin sister is taken and he decides to find her. A police detective knows what he is doing so he follows his every move. The book moves quickly and there is a surprise at the end.
Jean Lesslie
Patty Jane's House of Curl by Lorna Landvik
I love Landvik's books! I've read most of them and there has not been a disappointment in any of them.
This one starts a bit slow but the last half is really worth staying with it.
Donna Shaw
Behind the Beautiful Forevers by Katherine Boo
A very well written, informative, non-fiction book about life in the Annawadi slum located in Mumbai, India where survival from one day to the next is a challenge. One third of the worlds poor live in India. Corruption is considered an opportunity and is a way of life at every level.
Jean L
When Joy Came To Stay by Karen Kingsbury
This book is a faith-based novel. This is not my usual genre (I like thrillers) but this author's books are the favorite of several of my relatives so I decided to try a few. I was not disappointed. Kingsbury's books are well-written. This is a stand alone book but she has several series.
Jean L
On Every Side by Karen Kingsbury
This is a well-written book. It has some suspense which I like. It also has a happy feel-good ending after taking you on a few twists and turns.
Aaron Polish
Decision by Allen Drury
Long book that has a clashing ending.
Jean L
On Every Side by Karen Kingsbury
Just how far would you be willing to go to stand up for what you believe? In this case, Faith is about to be tested in ways many of us are. She is a newscaster who decides to defend her faith when a hundred-year-old statue of Jesus that stands in the middle of their park is found to be a violation of the separation of church and state. Faith is about to go head to head with attorney, Jordan Riley who is fighting for human rights and is completely against the God that Faith believes in.
Jean Lesslie
Splintered Bones by Carolyn Haines
This is a very good read. It is probably what they call "Cozy".
I like the characters in this series. I have read several and intend to follow it further.
Michelle Nebbia
Elsewhere by Richard Russo
A friend of mine has been singing the praises of Richard Russo's books recently...on and on and on, but since her taste in books isn't the same as mine, I've basically ignored her. However, she got so annoying with telling me to read this one that I finally picked it up and read it, not for anything but to shut her up. Well, was I surprised - this book hooked me right away, and I blew through it in 2 days! I'm not a memoir reading by any means, but I loved this book - Russo's descriptions of life with his mother completely enthralled me, right up to the point where years later he finally discovers what made his mother tick. Sadly, it was too late for her. I'd highly recommend this book to everyone - thumbs up!
Jean L
The Last Man by Vince Flynn
This book reads as though it comes directly from today's news.
It is a page turner as are all of Flynn's books. It is a series with Mitch Rapp as are all but one.
Tessa BC
Don't Sing at the Table by Adriana Trigiani
In this memoir, Trigiani's memories of her grandmothers, as well as the background information she gleaned from relatives (or her grandmothers’ diaries/papers), are stitched together into a quilt of love, kindness, strength and tenacity. This is a love letter to two women who left their stamp on their descendants – even those they never met. I enjoyed it but didn’t fall in love with it, though I found myself frequently thinking about my own grandmothers and the lives they led.
Tessa BC
The Bad Beginning by Lemony Snicket and Brett Helquist
Audio book performed by Tim Curry. WONDERFUL. I love how he introduces new vocabulary! Outlandish, "scary" story of 3 orphans and the "series of unfortunate events."
Elizabeth Harrelson
The Witness by Nora Roberts
You can never go wrong with a Nora Roberts book. It keeps you interested until the last page. Could not put it down once I started. Anything by this author is a GREAT read!!! Her characters are so life like that you become that person in the book while you read. It doesn't seem like fiction.
Diane Porter
The Racketeer by John Grisham
A deep plot that keeps winding itself up until the final chapter! I am enjoying the character that leads us on a great adventure from lawyer to prisoner to free. Well-written with a great sense of humor. One of the better Grisham's in my opinion.
Joyce Clark
Crossing on the Paris by Dana Gynther
A cross between Downton Abbey and Titanic.
Jaimie Bruzenak
The Round House by Louise Erdrich
A tale of love and revenge - much different than her other books. Very enjoyable read.
Sharron
Notorious Nineteen by Janet Evanovich
As always, Stephanie Plum gets into all kinds of trouble and is aided by Morelli and Ranger. Fun Read.
CYNTHIA DUNKIN
The Spy Lover by Kiana Davenport
Three diverse characters reflect developments during the US Civil War. History books don't reveal harsh realities to individuals or uniqueness of battleground geography.
Ann Hill
The Assassin by Andrew Britton
The continuing story begun in "The American". It is a fast paced spy/thriller story with a lot of intrigue and action. It reads like a current event and gives some insight into how the CIA and other government agencies work in today's world.
BJ Simon
Evil for Evil by Aline Templeton
Another solid entry from this Scottish author. I have read all in this series and will continue to do so.
Francisca E B
Unaccustomed Earth by Jhumpa Lahiri
Audio book read by Sarita Choudhury and Ajay Naidu. Lahiri writes beautifully evocative stories of the immigrant experience that are unique to her characters but have universal themes for her readers.
Rhonda Lomazow
The Intercept by Dick Wolf
An unputdownable thriller. Ripped from today's headlines
Patricia Hunter
The Elegant Gathering of White Snows by Kris Radish
A wonderful book, describing an amazing (and probably not that uncommon) friendship amongst a group of women, that takes them on the road----and on foot!
Jeanette Mateer
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night by Michael Chabon
A club member mentioned this as one of the best books she'd ever read. Our discussion is two weeks away but to me, it is a story I will never forget. How wonderful to have such a memory and mathematical talent but how awful to have so much difficulty dealing with everyday life. This book really gave me insight from the point of view of one suffering from this disability.
Sherrie English
Mercury: An Intimate Biography of Freddie Mercury by Lesley-Ann Jones
Great read for fans of Freddie Mercury and Queen.
Beautifully written to show the man over the showman.
Marion Benton
Killing Kennedy by Bill O'Reilly and Martin Dugard
I was born in 1951 so I was 12 when Kennedy was shot. I remember hearing it over the loud speaker in our 7th grade Catholic School class. Our nun was from Boston and she was devastated along with everyone else. This book perfectly captures that time and I did learn new things about that time even though I soaked up everything I could. O'Reilly's research was very thorough and I finished the book in one sitting.
Joan Diamond
The Informant by Kurt Eichenwald
This is a true story and that makes it all the more bizarre. The principle character, Mark Whitacre, becomes an FBI informant against the powerful company of Archer Daniels Midland. Once I started this book, I couldn't stop reading it. Whitacre's actions and experiences while conducting covert tapings of powerful men, drew me in. Then the secrets that are gradually revealed and the unbelieveable ploys of Whitacre, kept me wanting to discover the truth. Does justice prevail? I think so, but others may not.
Wanda Thomas
Girl in Translation by Jean Kwok
This is a wonderful story of survival. A young Chinese girl, Kim, and her mother come to the US after her father dies. Indebted to her aunt, living in squalor, Kim manages to keep her home life secret as she tries to lift them out of poverty through working hard at school and at the factory.
You find yourself cheering for Kim and also laughing as she tries to learn and understand the English language.
Rodney Vaughn
Consent to Kill by Vince Flynn
Another great read about about the inside war against radical Islamic terrorist. Mitch Rapp is one of my all time favorite characters and this book delivers just what we have come to expect from this series. Lots of tension and twisted plots, an exciting read.
Sue Em Davenport
The Racketeer by John Grisham
I haven't finished it, but so far I am really enjoying it.
fatimah dixon
Boys Are Dogs by Leslie Margolis
If you're a girl, and your having a hard time figuring out boys, come and read this book!! This book tells all, and knows all about boys. Trust me, I even learned a few things about boys, myself from this book. I'll even give you a sneak peek; 'Rule #8: Be the leader of your pack'.
Don't know what I'm talking about, well this means you should the book and TAKE THE ADVICE!
Norene Wittlin
John Adams by David McCollough
Great
Lori Bednaz
The Borrower by Rebecca Makkai
As the Children's Librarian in a small library, I was drawn to this book. It is well written, but a bit far fetched, no librarian I know would take a child in her car across state lines.
Judy Miles
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
Wow! Right till the last word! A real great book club discussion ensued. Very well thought out and planned. Can't wait for a next one?
Bonnie
The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry by Rachel Joyce
If you're looking for a novel that's feel-good without being sappy, then this is the book for you. I enjoyed it thoroughly and loved the characters.
Joanne McIntyre
Washington Schlepped Here by Christopher Buckley
Entertaining, hilarious and so very informative. If you've never been to D.C., read this book and you will feel like you have. I've never been, but Buckley makes me want to take the first flight out!
Bonnie
Crooked letter, Crooked Letter by Tom Franklin
Good mystery that I enjoyed while reading it, but a few weeks after can't really remember very well. Hence, the 3 stars. To get 4 I'd have to recollect it pleasantly for weeks or months after reading. To give a book 5 stars it would have to be memorable years after.
MB Wall
Salvation of a Saint by Keigo Higashino
This is a “locked room” mystery, set in Japan. A man is killed by arsenic poisoning, which he obviously did not administer himself, but nobody was near him when he died. The author has won several awards for past mystery stories.
Marie Arnold
A Redbird Christmas by Fannie Flagg
Reading A REDBIRD CHRISTMAS is a sure way to warm hearts and spirits during this joyous Christmas season. I'm looking forward to our uncoming Book Group discussion.
Marie-Louise Molloy
Crunch Time by Diane Mott Davidson
Murder and food ~ great mix!
Ashley Boham
The Fox Run by David Robbins
I first started reading this series when my husband found, read and recommended this book & series. This first book started it all for me. This series has almost thirty books in the series from 1986 through 2009. I love this series very much.
It's about a post nuclear war world where the survivors are surviving among beasts, human and animal.
It has everything. Horror aspects, Drama, Crime, even romance.
I highly recommend it to anyone. :)
Ruth Dunn
Billy Lynn's Long Halftime Walk by Ben Fountain
The wars in the mideast are a long way from the daily consciousness of most of us. This book brings it closer, through the eyes of a 19-year-old war hero. Besides dazzling writing, this book is a look in the mirror for Americans and provides reflections that give a lot of think and talk about.
Mary Bryant
City of Women by David Gillham
Berlin during WWII and survival of both Germans and Jews. Intriguing role of German women and what they are willing to do to help others.
Kathy Iwasaka
1222 by Anne Holt
I am reading this book for my mystery book club and have enjoyed it so far. I had a bad experience with my first Scandinavian author (did not love The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson), but have read a couple of others since then and have loved them, (Jussi Adler-Olsen, for example, was terrific).
Fran O
Everything Must Go by Elizabeth Flock
I normally enjoy books by this author but I just couldn't get into this one. I read up to page 98 when I realized that I really had no connection to the character, couldn't keep track of what year the character was in and did not care what happened next. That is when I decided it just wasn't worth it. Oh well, Just not my cuppa tea!!!
Lynn W
Bring Up The Bodies by Hilary Mantel
Thomas Cromwell was a sly old devil. Enjoyed reading this installment of his life as much as "Wolf Hall."
Rosemary DeMarois
Still Alice by Lisa Genova
This book is a moving depiction of what it is like to have early-onset Alzheimers disease. When we first got this book to read for our boiok club, I wasn't sure I wanted to read a book about Alzheimers disease, but when I started reading I literally couldn't put it down. I read the entire book in one sitting.
Tom Barrington
Run For Your Life by James Patterson & Michael Ledwidge
The Michael Bennett Series was recommended to me. I bought the whole series of five books. I read Step on a Crack the first in the series. I just finished the second book Run For Your Life. It was a very good read. Detective Michael Bennett is married and has ten kids. A Murderer has come to New York City and start killing people. They call him the Teacher. It's up to Benett to stop him. I enjoyed read the book and can't wait to continue reading the rest of the series.
Pattie Berryhill
Raylan by Elmore Leonard
Great read! Lots of interesting characters!
Renee' Booker
Heaven Forbid by Lutishia Lovely
About family, friends @ personal issues dealing with relation on every level that life have to offers.
With God spirit wrestle with each person involves.
Linda Reck
A Casual Vacancy by J.K. Rowling
Reads like Harry Potter for adults. Dull plot. Characters not fully drawn. I was disappointed.
Linda H
Dream Lake by Lisa Kleypas
This was one of the best books that I’ve read in a while! It is the story of a man who feels that he is not good enough for any woman to love him and the discovery he finds in the love given by a young woman.
Rhoda MacMaster
Hannah's List by Debbie Macomber
Excellent story about a man whose wife dies and he finds a letter with a list of three women he thinks would be a good match for him. A cute romance.
Linda Harrison
Merry Christmas, Alex Cross by James Patterson
A good story line involving my favorite Patterson character, Alex Cross. Only wish that Morgan Freeman was still playing Alex Cross in the movies.
Linda Harrison
Dark Prince by Christine Feehan
This is the first book of the Dark Series and introduces the reader to the Carpathians. A good book and I am now reading through the series.
Linda Harrison
The Racketeer by John Grisham
A great book with an amazing plot! It will keep you reading from the first page as one surprise and then another comes up.
Linda Harrison
The Unseen by Heather Graham
This was a good read where Graham writes about people with paranormal abilities that solve the killings occurring near the Alamo.
Linda Harrison
The Unholy by Heather Graham
This is the sequel to The Unseen and is about a special FBI group with paranormal abilities. This one involves the murder of a young woman at a special effects studio.
Linda Harrison
The Unspoken by Heather Graham
This book comes after The Unholy and is about the group of psychics hired by the FBI to investigate strange and unusual occurrences. This story is about a sunken ship containing a cursed Egyptian mummy.
Julie
Fall of Giants by Ken Follett
One of those sagas you can't put down. If you like Ken Follett's writing, you'll love this. It's the first on of a trilogy covering the 20th century.
gretchen kempff
Mr. Penumbra's 24-Hour Bookstore by Robin Sloan
Very technical and scary if what the author writes about Google is true. Reminds me somewhat of Shadows in the Wind. Confusing plot that doesn't flow. Trouble discerning what the characters really wanted to accomplish. I kept thinking I missed something and probably did...lol.
sandy haber
Babycakes by Donna Kauffman
Fun addition to the series about bakers on Sugarberry Island, GA. Writing is great, hunks are really hunky, and you can gain weight just reading about the cupcakes!! This one also talks about saving turtles -- good addition.
Jessie Brown
All Together Dead by Charlaine Harris
This series is a fun, easy read. Plus, I love watching the show as well.
Judy S
Revolution by Jennifer Donnelly
I've only "read" half on audiobook. Fantastic so far!
Ilene Harris
Princess Elizabeth's Spy by Susan Elia MacNeal
A Maggie Hope series, a delightful historical fiction that takes place against the backdrop of the bombing of London during World War ll. Maggie a former secretary to Prime Minister Winston Churchill, is now dispatched to go undercover at Windsor Castle, where she will tutor the young Princess Elizabeth. The upstairs-downstairs world at Windsor is thrown into disarray by a shocking murder which draws Maggie into a vast conspiracy that places the entire royal family in danger.
Dawn
Denial by Peter James
Peter James can write a thriller - I read his book dead simple and couldn't quit telling people about it - omg - from start to finish it was a thrill - and made me feel like i was in the story - so once again i am reading one of his books and am wondering what ride he will take me on this time - enjoy.
MHH
The Light Between Oceans by M. L. Stedman
At about half way through, I'm not sure how well I like it. Some of it is predictable, but other parts are a little surprising. Will suspend judgment until I finish.
Ivy Pittman
The Hynotist's Love Story by Liane Moriarty
Funny and somewhat scary. If Ellen and Patrick's relationship survives Patrick's stalker, ex-girlfriend, Saskia, than they can get through anything.
Diane Pollock
Killing the Poormaster by Holly Metz
More engaging than most fiction, and yet a chance to learn from the mistakes of the past while we work to fix the great recession...
Judy O.
Cemetery Girl by David Bell
Suspenseful novel about a 12 year old girl who is kidnapped one day while she is walking the dog at a local park. Four years later, she suddenly appears. Who took her and where has she been? She refuses to say. The ending was satisfying but improbable.
Francisca E B
One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest by Ken Kesey
Excellent story of one man's challenge of authority in a mental hospital. It may not end as we would hope, but the patients on the ward are at least no longer "rabbits," but MEN.
shelly itkin
The Time Keeper by Mitch Albom
I usually enjoy Mitch Albom's book but I must say this work of fiction was not one I enjoyed.
It is about the first man on earth to count time. He is punished and sent to a cave to live and when his soul is nearly broken Father Time grants him freedom.
There is always a catch and this one is to have him return to earth and teach two people the true meaning of life.
One is a young girl and the other is an elderly businessman,it did not meet the standards of this other books in my opinion.
Debbie Smith
Age of Miracles by Karen Thompson Walker
This is a fascinating story of a shift in time due to the sun. The days are becoming longer and longer. Do we stay on "clock time" or real time as a society. The story follows one young girls perspective on how this is unfolding. I have to say this is one of the better books that I've read and I'm really enjoying the subject matter of time shifting. I highly recommend this as a great book for a gift.
Elaine Beierbach
The Black Box by Michael Connelly
I love Michaels' books.
Diane Castiglione
Cupid's Christmas by Bette Lee Crosby
This book was not what I really expected it to be. The cover is just beautiful with a little dog under a Christmas tree. I took it to be a book about Christmas and Cupid was the dog. Boy was I wrong. Cupid turns out to be an angel working for God and about his encounter with humans and helpling them. This was a cute fast read. I had more laughs and a few tears reading it.
Nicolette Bonzani
Broken Harbor by Tana French
With a knack for inserting me directly into the action from page one, Tana French is able to do so without my feeling as if I've missed anything. As the story develops these details are filled in through vivid characters whom I've followed since they were introduced to me in her first novel. As I went on this journey with detective Kennedy I experienced how his past has shaped his present, from work to family dynamics, especially with his sister Dina. I found myself contemplating how a simple shift in perspective can really change everything. A suspenseful thriller, Broken Harbor has the excitement this genre promises coupled with something much deeper.
Lynn Clifford
Princess Elizabeth's Spy by Susan Elia MacNeal
Wartime Britian portrayed through the eyes of a plucky little heroine. Great vacation read.
Pat Stuckey
The Negotiator by Dee Henderson
Had not read Henderson before but I will be reading more of her. Really enjoyed the book.
Pat Stuckey
Porch Lights by Dorothea Benton Frank
I absolutely love her books. Anytime I can read a book that is "around water/ocean" - I'm hooked. Love reading about the Outer Banks, Sullivan's Island, Bull's Island, etc. in her books.
Pat Stuckey
Condo: Criminals at Beach by Myra Pappas
Wasn't a great read but it was a free one on my Kindle and I enjoyed it. A fast read.
Jan Atkins
Survivor by Gregg Hurwitz
Suspenseful and full of turns. When I thought the book was winding up, I was only a little more than halfway--- had no idea so much more could happen!
Justine Brewer
The Hunger Games by Suzanne Colllins
I am pretty sure this book was originally written for young adults but as an adult, I absolutely loved it. I wanted to finish this book before I saw the movie ... the movie just brought it all to life for me. My favorite part of the book was probably waiting to see what "gifts" Katniss would receive from Haymitch. On to the next in the series!
Ramona Parra
The Story of Beautiful Girl by Rachel Simon
A beautiful story that kept reminding me how God does work in mysterious ways.
Paul Dimino
Hard Time by Sara Paretsky
I have enjoyed the Warsahwski series and this one did not disapppoint. The story held me interest and was well written.
Kellie
700 Sundays by Billy Crystal
This book was about Billy Crystal and his childhood. There is nothing in here about Billy’s life as an adult. It was surprising, this direction he went in the book. Most autobiographies begin with childhood and go thru the present. It was different but I still enjoyed it. I think Billy was making a case about how important his childhood was and how much influence his family, his brothers and especially his parents had on him. There is humor in this book, but not as much as you would think. It’s a pretty serious take on Billy and his early life. It’s almost like a tribute to his Mom and Dad.
Linda Johnson
Tiger Hills by Sarita Mandanna
Taking place in a country I knew nothing about, this story caught my attention right from the start. As I read about the intertwinement of the lives of Devi, Devanna, and Machu, I did not want their story to stop. It expresses the power of love and how our choices affect not only our lives but also the lives of those around us. The ending was a surprise, and I just wanted the story to keep going.
Lois Belliveau
Midnight in Peking by Paul French
Interesting, factual account of a true story in 1937 Peking - but not a page turner.
Kay
Hellhound On His Trail: Stalking MLK and the International Hunt For His Assassin by Hampton Sides
The best book I have read this year. Details James Earl Ray and his escape from prison, travels throughout the US and Mexico, obsession with George Wallace and how he stalked and murdered Dr. Martin Luther King. Then details his escape to Canada and capture by Scotland Yard in London. Interesting to go back to the 60's and that whole era. Intimate details of MLK entourage, well researched, well written and a complete page turner. Did the audio as well as reading. The reader on the CD was terrific.
Florence Cohen
Notorious Nineteen by Janet Evanovich
Hilarious as usual. Stephanie is in rare form once again. She's like a magnet who attracts characters and wierd situations. Her grandma Plum is going undercover!!! Pure fun and escapist reading.
Marsha
The Hunter by John Lescroart
Lescroart is at the top of his game with this novel featuring Wyatt Hunt. Hunt is shocked when he receives a text asking how his mother died. As he is an orphan, he knows little about the matter. As he investigates the 40 year old case he is hurled into dangerous territory and you will be kept in suspense until the final chapter.
dorothy Boyum
Come Home by Lisa Scottoline
I really have enjoyed all the books that I have read written by Lisa Scottoline. Her books always keep me interested and find it hard to put the book down.
Tessa BC
Lean Mean Thirteen by Janet Evanovitch
Book on CD read by Lorelei King. Typical Stephanie Plum caper. The Ranger, Stephanie, Morelli triangle continues. No cars blow up, but she burns down several buildings. The series is very formulaic, but they're still a fast, enjoyable read on a rainy day.
Shiela
The Worst Hard Time by Timothy Egan
As I did not know much about this time period other than general information, this book was able to provide me with a better understanding of the Dust Bowl period. It coincided with the PBS program on the same topic which increased my knowledge of this event to a greater extent. I would recommend to one one wanting an account of this time in our history.
Lyanne Poirier
Low Pressure by Sandra Brown
Great book, keeps you interested throughout as you try to figure out who murdered Susan.
Kathy Martocci
One Thousand White Women: The Journals of May Dodd by Jim Fergus
For those that love historical fiction, this book is a treasure! Just imagine if the U.S. Government had a program to assimilate Indians in the white culture by sending white women west in the "Brides for Indians" program during the Ulysses S. Grant administration. This was actually proposed but was rejected by the government. What might have happened? Read the book to find out.
Marie-Louise Molloy
I'm Half-Sick of Shadows by Alan Bradley
Christmas~fun read!
Robin McKay
Brash Endeavor by William Manchee
This is Manchee's first book and also the beginning of his "Stan Turner Mysteries". While I found that the plot was interesting, I felt that the dialogue was a bit stilted. The ending wasn't as dramatic as I thought it should be. I have read other books in the Stan Turner series and feel that Manchee 's writing skills inprove as he published more books.
I did enjoy seeing the beginnings of Stan Turner's law practice and the plot lines kept me reading.
Jean
Holiday Grind by Cleo Coyle
4.5 - An excellent cozy series and this holiday entry was especially good! Good character development and not too sappy. A perfect holiday cozy!
Paula C
The Uncommon Appeal Of Clouds by Alexander McCall Smith
In the latest installment of this series, Isabel Dalhousie, receives a request to help solve the problem of a missing painting from a wealthy Scotsman. Motive for the theft lies heavily on Isabel's mind as she has conversations with each family member, and as each person seems to have a good motive, it is the way that Isabel solves the problem that provides interest and intrigue. Isabel remains one of my most favorite characters.
Jo Hick
Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl
The first in a series. A well written young adult novel that adults will also enjoy. My daughter recommended it and there is a movie coming out in February.
Liz Gregoria
Night Road by Kristin Hannah
Our group had a wonderful discussion of this book. The topics of teenage drinking and parenthood led to different point of views. We thought hat the book would be good for teenagers to read.
Sandy McCullough
The Double Bind by Chris Bohjalian
This guy is my favorite author and I hope he writes many many more. The ending is one you will never suspect!!
Diana Thomas
Acts of Courage: Laura Secord and the War of 1812 by Connie Brummel Crook
This is a Young Adult biography about Laura Secord, Canadian Heroine of the War of 1812. The book is lightly fictionalized but the main points are all true. I wanted to read the book, since I haven't seen too many Biographies on this person, and knew a bit about her story from trips to Canada. I recommend reading it as a way to learn about the other side of the War.
Lorna
Out of the Deep I Cry by Julia Spencer-Fleming
3rd in the Millers Kill series. Russ and Claire are investigating the disapearance of the local doctor who runs the free clinic. Of course the clinic has ties to one of Claire's parishoners and soon claire discovers back in the 1920's someone else had disappeared, (the parishoners father) and never to be found. I enjoyed this installment better than the 2nd. Very quick and light read.
Denise Brennan
The Last Victim by Karen Robards
Excellent suspense. I even enjoyed the ghost story line. I can't what to see Michael Garland again.
Sue Nuti
Winter of the World by Ken Follett
Winter of the World is book 2 of a trilogy (Fall of Giants, 1st book, was a page turner) and follows 5 families at the onset of World War 1 and intertwines their lives through current events of the day. I'm only 1/4 of the way through but already have so much compassion for the people. This is great historical fiction writing.
Martha Brown
The Light Between Oceans by M. L. Stedman
As I began reading about this lighthouse keeper who was still filled with guilt of being a survivor in World War I, I thought this would be a slow, historical fiction, not so exciting story. I was so enthralled by the story, that I stayed up into the wee hours finishing it. Romance, moral dilemmas, tragedy, and consequences of living a lie. I thought the main characters were so well drawn and I learned a lot about the requirements of the old Australian lighthouse keepers organization.
Suzanne Ciaio
The End of Your Life Book Club by Will Schwalbe
This book is a great book for book lovers and book clubs. You learn in this book about the relationship between a mother and son and come to admire them greatly. I also found some wonderful reading suggestions throughout!
Lynn W
Peaches for Father Francis by Joanne Harris
Took awhile to get "into it" and didn't hold my attention as much as "Chocolat" but still an enjoyable read from one of my favorite authors.
Annette Price
The Round House by Louise Erdrich
A wonderfully written novel of how an attack on a woman, who is a wife and mother, on an Indian Reservation, affects her whole family. The laws pertaining to where the attack took place on Tribal land or not and whether the attacker was an Indian or not was very thought-provoking.
Michael McAdam
John Dies at the End by David Wong
I don't know how to begin to describe this book. The least interesting thing about it is the plot which I could not begin to describe (and, on occasion, have a hard time following) but that doesn't concern me at all because the writing style is so fun and whimsical (and this is supposed to be a horror book of some sort) I don't care! The blurbs on the book say it is scary. I haven't found that to be the case - it is certainly "out there" and I mean that in the most endearing way. I love it!
vicki norris-karten
It's So Hard To Type With A Gun In My Mouth by Steve Bluestein
Set aside a chunk of time because you will not be able to put this book down. Steve Bluestein bares his soul and shares the amazing journey he has taken from living in NYC after college to moving to the west coast and becoming a very succesful performer and writer. His stories are both funny and sad and filled with raw emotion. When you finish this book you will want to invite Steve over for dinner, he is the person you want at your party!
Bridget
Altar of Bones by Philip Carter
Very disappointing. Multi-generational action, suspense that really went nowhere.
Sarah Kavage
Buzz by Robert Zverina
This was the best piece of fiction I've read all year ... a tragicomic story of a son of immigrants, told with sincerity, dark humor and empathy. It's short, you can get through it in an evening, but the impact lingers. Every word is well chosen, and like poetry, you get just enough information to fill in the picture on your own. It's not a happy read, but it makes one think. Classic short fiction!
Darren Staley
It's So Hard To Type With A Gun In My Mouth by Steve Bluestein
There is an old adage that says "success does not equal happiness." In this book, comedian Steve Bluestein takes it one step further. For Bluestein, success barely equal sanity. For a man who shared the stage with Barry Manilow, Phyllis Diller, and other stars of stage and screen, you would think he has lived a charmed life.
Bluestein is here to tell you otherwise. Nothing ever goes right. From cooking dinner for his celebrity friends to what should have been a simple transaction with Home Depot, Bluestein delightfully and hilariously wonders at his inability to exist in a world that seems to be working against him.
Each inconvenience is treated equal. Kleptomanic mother, cancer, and technical support headaches, all the same.
CHERRY WERNER
Dearie: The Remarkable Life of Julia Child by Bob Spitz
We think we know all about Julia Child, but this begins before she is born in Pasadena, California and is filled with details of her family life. Did you know Julia was 6'2", suffered from unrequited love in her 20s, served in the OSS during WWII, met the love of her life at 31 in India, was considered 'only' a pal by Paul Child for several years? All this in the first 100 or so pages.
On a personal note, my uncle flew bombers over the hump during the war and reading this book, I've learned for the first time, that this was considered one of the most dangerous missions because of the wind currents - over 400 planes crashed by 1944.
This is one of my favorite things when reading - to learn new facts that send me to research.
Simonne
The Shoemaker's Wife by Adriana Trigiani
A terrific book by one of my two favorite authors. (the other is Susan Isaacs ... where has she been?) Wonderful characters and emotion.
Simonne
The Casual Vacancy by J. K. Rowlings
So far, finding this wordy novel hard to get into. Seems to be no reason to care about the characters and what they're up to. I am hopefully optimistic, though.
Michele Serrani
The Shoemaker's Wife by Adriana Trigiani
High in the Italian Alps at the turn of the twentieth century, Ciro, meets Enza. A But scandal at the convent where Ciro lives sends him to hide in America. When disaster strikes Enza's family, she, too, is forced to go to America. Fate intervenes and reunites them briefly. Ciro has volunteered to serve in World War I and Enza is successful in the costume department of the Metropolitan Opera House. Over time, they meet and separate, until finally they are together. A sweet love story insired by Trigiani's own family history. A wonderful book!
Claire O'Neil
The Innocent by David Baldacci
This book was exciting, suspencful and kept me on the edge of my seat. The settings were current and frightening. The characters were so believable and ones that stayed with you after the reading. I highly reccommend this book and await the author's next one.
Pat Askins
The Racketeer by John Grasham
Fantastic book! You will never go wrong with John Grisham. Lots of twists & turns and you will keep guessing. I did not want to put this book down but I did not want to finish it too fast since it was so good.
Donna K
Does The Noise In My Head Bother You? by Steven Tyler
This book has some interesting stories if you like Aerosmith, but it also has foul language, bad manners and lots of attitude. It's not my everyday kind of book and yet I'm enjoying it very much. My husband can't understand why I want to read it and will not let me tell him about it and yet I think he could relate. I just tell him in my next life I might want to be a Rock Star so leave me alone.
Elaine McIntosh
Secret Daughter by Shilpi Somaya Gowda
This was a very interesting book about how our choices affect our families and our lives.
Milton Howard
Executive Severance by Robert K. Blechman
This mystery novel is hilarious! It was originally written entirely in Twitter, that is 140 characters at a time. The amazing thing is that it all hangs together, some of the tweets are laugh out loud funny, and Blechman seems to know a thing or two about how to tell a mystery story. Along the way he makes fun of Twitter conventions, cell phone habits and the murder mystery genre itself. Twitter fiction may be the coming thing. Highly recommended!
Ramona
The Weird Sisters by Eleanor Brown
A beautiful story of family ties, expectations, and growing up in a small town. Intricately develops characters portraying how father and mother relationships are formed with their daughters based on birth order and individual personalities and the formed beliefs sisters may have based on what they think is expected of each.
Katherine Bennett
The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot
I found the development of science based on her cells fascinating. Too bad that she wasn't around to receive the credit.
Also, I gave this book to my father-in-law, a physician, and he had never heard the story. We both really enjoyed it.
Suzy Marcus
The Red Chamber by Pauline Chen
Pauline Chen's second book, first for adults, is a well-researched story of young woman traveling to meet her mother's family for the first time. Adapting to life in a wealthy family, located in Beijing, Daiyu learns to adjust to life vastly different from her father's small home in a village. Family disagreements, adjustments, additions and losses, make this a good read that I recommend without reservation.
Marie Ledin
The Intercept by Dick Wolf
Won this as an Advance Reader's Edition. Great thriller, suspense, terrorism, with a hint at romance. Would recommend to anyone who enjoys this genre.
Kellie
Blue Christmas by Mary Kay Andrews
This is a hard copy book that was signed by Kathy Trouchek herself. It was a cute Christmas story I enjoyed very much. Andrews brings back my favorite charcters from Savannah Breeze and Savannah Blues, Weezie and Bebe. This is just a short novella about the holiday season with Weezie, her boyfriend Daniel, Bebe and her boyfriend Harry and Daniel’s family, who Weezie is just getting to know. I love the antique aspect of these books. Andrews is big in antiques and uses this hobby as a theme in her books. I like to read at least one Christmas book every year. I’m glad I chose this one this year.
Sara
Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn
I just finished Gone Girl last weekend and loved it. I decided to check out another book by Ms. Flynn. I am so glad I did. This book is awesome. I loved the story and the craziness of the characters. I didn't want the book to come to a close. I started reading slower and slower. It is a trip of a read!!!
Lynn Hough
Midwives by Chris Bohjalian
Personally, I never even considered having my children at home so the duties, risks and life of a midwive was all new to me. I definitely like that fact that you didn't know how the book would end until it ended.
Judy O.
The Care and Handling of Roses with Thorns by Margaret Dilloway
Galilee Garner is a 36-year-old science teacher, avid rose grower, and kidney dialysis patient. She is very busy taking care of all these parts of her life until one day her teenage niece, Riley, comes to live with her. After a rough start, the two of them forge a loving relationship. One day the girl's mother comes back to claim her daughter. I loved this book. The reader learns so many things about kidney disease, rose growing, and nurturing relationships. This author's first book is HOW TO BE AN AMERICAN HOUSEWIFE. I enjoyed this book a great deal too.
Judson Hanson
Loch Ness by Donovan Galway
A fun, entertaining read about the search for Nellie. Well worth the time to read.
Genie Mims
Haunted In Death by J.D. Robb
I checked out this book on cd from the library to listen to in the car. Lieutenant Eve Dallas and her partner Detective Peabody are called out to a homicide scene at a night club. The owner, Radcliff Hopkins, is the grandson of the original owner who was responsible for making Number 12 the big success it was in the 1960s. As the facts begin to fall into place, there seems to be a connection with the cold case from 85 years ago.
Wendy Catalano
How Beauty Met The Beast by Jax Garren
"How Beauty Met The Beast", by Jax Garren, is the debut novella in the series "Tales Of The Underlight". It reminded me of one of my very favorite television shows "Beauty And The Beast" from the 80's.
I loved the dialogues and the main characters. Jolie (Beauty) is a burlesque dancer and Hauk (Beast) is an Agent for the Underlight who sustained extensive burns over his face and body, years earlier, while serving in Afghanistan.
They have a steamy moment together, separated by a sheet, and that has to be one of the most erotic scenes I have ever read.
Their adventure is an easy flow of events and I can't wait to read more with the next book.
Wendy C.
The Casual Vacancy by J. K. Rowling
I think J.K. Rowling's debut in adult fiction is a great success. I already knew that she was a skilled storyteller but was not sure how that would translate from young adult writing. The Casual Vacancy reminded me of Maeve Binchy (one of my favorite authors) at the time of her game, with a little more sex and cursing thrown in. The story of this town and its inhabitants was a mesmerizing read. I would recommend it highly.
Wendy C.
Say You're Sorry by Michael Robotham
Tautly written thriller featuring psychiatrist Joe O'Loughlin. A farmhouse is tied to two separate crimes - the recent homicide of a husband and wife who currently live there and the past disappearance of two teenage girls. The narrative of the story goes back and forth between the current investigation and the vanished girls story as told by one of the girls. Not knowing if the girls are dead or alive, if their story is over or ongoing adds lots of suspense to this story. Recommend it highly - as I would any in Robotham's O'Loughlin series.
Bridget
The Christmas Pearl by Dorothea Benton Frank
Cute swtory, but it was too short. Thought it was a novella, but it was a short story with lots of recipes at the back of the book.
Bridget
Restoration by Olaf Olafsson
Very good novel set in Italy before and during World War II. About Americans abroad involved in the art world. Lots of flash backs which made it a little difficult, in the beginning to get into. After a while the story seemed to flow and I just kept wanting to read more to see what happened to everyone!
Reva Wamsley
Killing Kennedy by Bill O'Reilly and Martin Dugard
I was very interested in reading this because I remember when John Kennedy was killed. I had just graduated from high school that spring & was attending college.
The book is written in a way that keeps your interest while telling you the events that lead up to the assassination. It starts with the swearing in of the President & ends shortly after Ruby shoots Oswald. If you have an interest in history, this is a great book to read.
Carol Stroup
Left Neglected by Lisa Genova
I loved this book. It was sad and funny all at the same time. It made me think about the crazy pace so many of us keep and how easily it can all crumble in an instant. A very big reminder that the life we so carefully plan is rarely the life we end up living.
Joyce Clark
American Boy by Larry Watson
Well-written coming of age with a twist.
Carolyn
Grace Jones of Salado: A Biography by Mary Margaret Quadlander
A small town girl from Texas, with the grace that befitted her name. After becoming a WASP pilot in WW II, traveling the world with her military husband, becoming friends with Eisenhower, and celebrities from around the world, she returned to New York to model, and her fashion designs and fascinating personality captured notables from Hollywood and High Society. Then, the unlikely, she returned to the small Village of Salado, TX to open an exclusive dress boutique. Who would come? With the airport runway that pilot husband Jack built, women could come from anywhere ... and did! Quadlander did a remarkable job presenting the story of this beautiful, captivating, unusual woman of her time, and place in history.
Marian Collins
The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry by Rachel Joyce
I liked this book. I liked traveling across England with Harold. I also liked how you just don't know what is going on in others lives.
Joan
Trust Your Eyes by Linwood Barclay
This is one of the best books I have read this year. Amazing plot that keeps you turning the pages to the end. Hard to put down!
Dorothy Boyum
The Locket by Richard Paul Evans
This was an outstanding book. I absolutely could not put it down. It really tells how people of different ages can help one another.
Kaylynn
The Bean Trees by Barbara Kingsolver
Read this again for book club. Taylor Greer leaves the hills of Kentucky to find something better, picks up a three-year-old in Oklahoma, and finds love, friendship, loyalty, and belonging in Tucson. Kingsolver writes good books.
Donna Watts
Notorious Nineteen by Janet Evanovich
Stephanie Plum is again doing her best to just pay her rent. This book is great. All of the adventures that can go wrong do go wrong and they are hilarious. I would recommend everyone to read this book.
Mary Bryant
Firefly Lane by Kristin Hannah
Intriguing relationship between childhood friends over a thirty year period. It covers hopes and dreams of each girl and how different they are but still true friends.
Pat S.
Kisses from Katie by Beth Clark and Katie J. Davis
What an inspiration Katie is!!!! Even though I am a Christian and a follower of Christ, I still cannot imagine putting myself in her shoes. She truly is a special young woman for God. She will have many jewels in her crown one day. God bless her in her efforts in Africa.
Pat S
Life of Pi by Yann Martel
I was very confused at the beginning of this book, then really "got into it" and was enjoying it a lot. However, quite unusual book--would recommend it with "reservations I guess".
Pat S.
The Friend by Mary Jane Clark
Thoroughly enjoyed the little story - left me wanting more, more, more!!! Looking forward to her next book in January.
gail blesi
The Last Time I Was Me by Cathy Lamb
Wonderful book. Very hopeful. Well written.
Rachel C.
On the Island: A Novel by Tracey Garvis-Graves
This book reminds me of the movie Blue Lagoon, except in this particular case the characters have a huge age difference. An older woman and a much younger man. Stranded on an island, presumed dead but yet alive. Missing for years, enclosed in their own little world, surviving off of the land and completely depending on each other. I enjoyed this book because it truly proved that age is indeed nothing but a number when it comes to love.
Susan Stack
Sacajawea by Anna Lee Waldo
What a strong and proud woman! She ought to be celebrated for her courage and her willingness to sense that she has a good heart and know her place, at the same time. Incredible story of the Lewis and Clark expeditioin and her role in bringing our knowledge of the West to the world. The deterioration of the Indian and White Soldiers begins to show itself in her lifetime. The customs of the Indians are thoroughly reviewed and hold so much about Mother Earth.
Debbie Smith
Little Giant of Aberdeen County by Tiffany Baker
This is a wonderful book about a woman of giant proportions who is treated with amusement in her small town. Her mother died in childbirth and her father who doesn't really know how to deal with her. She has an older sister who is beautiful and seemingly perfect. A difficult life that does have some good moments. This book has been out for awhile, but it's definitely one of the best I've read.
mary branham
Treading Water by Marie Force
I just discovered Marie Force. Treading Water is the first book in a series of 4 books.
I am really enjoying it. A woman gets hit by a car and is in a coma. Her husband and daughters are having a hard time getting by. The husband meets a woman throught his work, she has a deaf son. This is the story of how the husband moves on and falls in love and how his 3 daughters adapt to having a new woman in their dads life. Then a major happens shakes them all up. Can't wait to read the next 3.
Linda
An American Spy by Olen Steinhauer
Excellent spy novel. Steinhauer lifts the book to a compelling read. Stunning thriller. Milo Weaver is a well-defined main character.
Melissa
Olivia Brophie and the Pearl of Tagelus by Christopher Tozier
Really cool kid's fantasy unlike any I've ever read. My kids love it and can't wait for book #2.
Diane Vokac
The Color of Water by James McBride
It's a wonderful story about the power of a determined mother and the family.
Linda Sexauer
Burning Blue by Paul Griffin
Burning Blue is a suspenseful teen book told in alternating perspectives. When uber-popular Nicole is the victim of a violent act that severely disfigures her face, she finds a connection to the loner, Jay, who has long admired her from afar. A whiz at computer hacking, Jay sets out to find Nicole's attacker and bring him/her to justice. As always, Griffin is a master of exploring the dark underside of human psychology, but balances these glimpses with tenderness and redemption. I loved this story with almost real characters, and lots and lots of twists and turns. Highly recommended.
Linda Johnson
Sail of Stone by Ake Edwardson
This novel starts into the mystery right away. It's one of those books that you can't put down. The characters are some of the ones in Edwardson's previous books like Chief Inspector Erik Winter and Afro-Swedish Detective Aneta Djanali. I am always curious about how these two are getting along in their lives. The story is about missing persons from two totally different families. Each mystery has to be dealt with differently. Danger is also present. Excuse me, back to the story.
Phyllis Schmitz
Burnt Mountain by Anne Rivers Siddons
Love this author but not excited about this book. Much of the story just didn't fit together with the Celtic mythology that was a prominent part. Still, a wonderful descriptive author.
Audrey Anderson
Witch Hunt by Shirley Damsgaard
This is a cozy mystery series that is quite good. I enjoy it. The main characters are Abbey and Ophelia. Abbey is Ophelia's grandmother. They have "gifts" which are not uncommon in their family and Abbey is mentoring Ophelia. In each book Abbey, the local librarian, gets herself involved with a murder investigation.
Gary Rudolph
You Don't Want To Know by Lisa Jackson
Full of suspense. Enjoyable to read!
Lois Lilling
Snow Flower and the Secret Fan by Lisa See
A study of Chinese culture and how two women develop a warm relationship by way of writing in the folds of a fan.
Esther Engelhardt
Bared to You by Sylvia Day
If you liked the 50 Shades of Grey books, you'll like this one.
Marie Ledin
2nd Chance by James Patterson
As always, another awesome book by James Patterson; can't wait to start the next in this series.
Kathleen Carn
The Time Keeper by Mitch Albom
Odd kind, of book, but intriguing. Father time, the inventor of keeping time, is punished by being forced to listen to complaints about not enough time. to much time for all eternity. Almost. Soon he will be free, when he matches up the magical hourglass and a mission.
Kathleen Carn
Peaches for Father Francis by Joanne Harris
The characters from "Chocolat" are back, with a very good story. I liked this one better than "Chocolat". I guess being acquainted with the people in the book helped to enjoy this one.
Gil
Spies and Lies: The Paradox by Frederick L. Malphurs
An interesting novel about intercepting intelligence for the government and independent companies. Many subplots and characters both inside the U.S. and foreign countries.
Kathy Iwasaka
Criminal by Karin Slaughter
I love these continuing characters and learning more of their back-story is a real treat.
Kaylynn
The Redbird Christmas by Fannie Flagg
For book club this month we were to read a Chrismas book. This has been one of my favorites for several years.
Elizabeth Vollbach
Broken Harbor by Tana French
BROKEN HARBOR is the best of the three Tana French books I've read. The other two, IN THE WOODS and THE LIKENESS, both received many good reviews. I, however, was not so impressed. But BROKEN HARBOR has made me want to go back and read the book I skipped, FAITHFUL PLACE. BROKEN HARBOR is that rare mystery that is both plot- and character-driven. It's a great book.
judy madsen
The Assassin by Andrew Britton
Intricate plot, interesting characters. Usual stupidity in government officials here and there. Only my second book from Britton but I think he's interesting enough to follow the rest of his novels.
Judy O.
The Round House by Louise Erdrich
An Indian woman, living on a reservation in North Dakota, is attacked and raped in 1988. The woman, Geraldine Coutts, is so traumatized that she will not speak for many weeks. Her husband and 13-year-old son, Joe, are wildly trying to help find the attacker and also trying to get their mother and wife back with them in mind and spirit. When the rapist is identified, because of tribal laws, they can not prosecute him because he is white. Joe and his 3 friends set out to find some answers. This is a fascinating book with lots of suspense and superb writing. I did think at times that some passages went on too long with no purpose other than to fill up space.
Caitlynn Hatteras
A Different Kind of Normal by Cathy Lamb
Amazing book about love. The novel covers the view point of both the Mother who simply wants the best for her child as well as the Son who has significant medical conditions. Well developed characters. The book brings the reader to tears as well as laughter. The book does not let the reader down. Highly recommend this and all of Cathy Lambs other novels.
Marsha
The Art Forger by B. A. Shapiro
Attention all art lovers. This is a fascinating novel that outlines art forgery, art theft, art history and the Isabel Gardner museum in Boston. It is part mystery, part art secrets, part imaginary historical relationships and much more.
Kaylynn
An Irish Country Christmas by Patrick Taylor
So far, the best book of this set and the funniest. I giggled and laughed many times.
Tessa B
Lean Mean Thirteen by Janet Evanovitch
Book on CD read by Lorelei King. Typical Stephanie Plum caper. The Ranger, Stephanie, Morelli triangle continues. No cars blow up, but she burns down several buildings.
Francisca E B
Animal Farm by George Orwell
This allegorical fable was first published in 1945. It was Orwell’s attack on Joseph Stalin and Stalinism. I read this in high school and really did not like it at all. I appreciate it more today, because I’m more aware of the history of the period. Orwell was concerned about self-imposed censorship; he felt the intelligentsia was hiding from what was happening around them and would awaken far too late. Looking back, it seems prophetic.
Marie-Louise Molloy
I'm Half-Sick of Shadows by Alan Bradley
Christmas mystery = magical!
ELLEN DEC
Lots of Candles, Plenty of Cake by Anna Quindlen
Am 'reading' it in the audible version and positively love it - I keep re-reading certain portions, something I never do on audio. I recommend for all those women 50 or older as well as a gift suggestion for anyone with a friend in that age range.
Ruth Underwood
San Miguel by T. C. Boyle
Very good book...
Julie Rand
Let the Great World Spin by Colum McCann
Bringing together all the characters into a final plot location in NYC, this novel introduces interpersonal relationships of every level of society with both technical research and literal tightrope walking suspense. What a coup for Colum McCann!
Fran O
The Strangely Beautiful Tale of Miss Percy Parker by Leana Renee Hieber
Eh... It was okay. Glad it was free on my nook because I would have been disappointed if I spent money on it.
Kathy Vallee
If Fried Chicken Could Fly by Paige Shelton
The book is about a youmg woman and her grandmother who can see a ghost from the past of the towns history. They get caught up in trying to solve a murder that happened in thier cooking school. As they get ready for the big towns days of celebrating the past and teaching the students the last of thier lessons at the close of the time the students have. And all before her ghost leaves for parts unknown.
Jeannie Tungate
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
This is not your typical World WAR II story. This story is told from the perspective of a foster child and her new family and the power of books. Her experiences are tragic, yet reading seems to open up a world to her. Our book club loved this story and had a very animated discussion.
N. Gregg O'Brien
Home by Toni Morrison
Good story for this time of year from a well-loved author.
Cassandra Early
One Mountain Away by Emilie Richards
Great book. Love the locale - spent some time there. Will love recommending this book!
J.A. OUELLETTE
The Hearts of Horses by Molly Gloss
A female "horse-whisperer" gains the trust of Oregon ranchers and horses during WWI while learning to trust again. Heat-warming, perfect for all ages.
Nancy Hausladen
1225 Christmas Tree Lane by Debbie Macomber
Every Christmas our group chooses to read a Happy Christmas book and this was our pick this year. It had all the joyful things about Christmas, including ten little puppies. It was a fun read.
Marty Elstrom
Four Girls from Berlin by Marianne Meyerhoff
This was a book is a memoir covering several decades, starting before WWII and ending in recent times. It reveals a story of friendship that lasted through the war. After the war, the Jewish girl, who was living in the US, received a box of family treasures from her three friends in Germany; her daughter eventually travelled to Germany and met some of the girls (only the living ones) and their families.
Holly Biggs
Seraphina by Rachel Hartman
In the beautifully written Serpahina, Rachel Hartman introduces fascinating dragons in an alternative-medieval world to fantasy and science-fiction readers of all ages. A detailed account of a time when humans and dragons live together in a most uneasy land. Seraphina is a very well-developed character whose secrets could trouble all who know her. I absolutely loved this book and cannot wait for the sequel to be released.
Dawn Byers
Cheater by Nancy Taylor Rosenberg
Risenberg can always deliver a thriller that will keep you turning the pages and waiting for her next book.
Lori
Walnut Tree by Charles Todd
I enjoyed this "free-standing" book about one of Bess Crawford's roommates. It was a quick read, but like other books of the authors, it was atmospheric of the time period and had interesting characters. I would recommend it to people who like the Maisie Dobbs series by Jacqueline Winspear.
Michael McAdam
Fifty Shades Darker by E. L. James
I can't believe I am admitting to reading this - it is mostly so one of my friends will stop bugging me. It is no improvement on the first book. There is very little real conflict and the characters are as repetitive and as schizophrenic as ever. I realize this is a woman's fantasy but what woman in her right mind would fantasize about a guy who is such an a**hole! I am not a fan of erotica and if all erotica books are as uninteresting as this, I never will be. Luckily it is a quick read so there is a light at the end of this literary tunnel.
Donna DeWitt
Night Road by Kristin Hannah
Kristin Hannah doesn't disappoint. This is a must read for all teenagers and parents or grandparents of teenagers! It captures the pain of loss on many levels. It makes you aware of just how much more difficult it is to grieve and to go on after a tragedy without the hope and faith of a higher being, our Savior and Lord, from which to gain strength.
Esther Vandergugten
Mothers and Daughters: A Novel by Rae Meadows
I had a hard time picking between 2 or 3 stars for this book. I liked it on the whole, but the ending was very abrupt and so much more could have been done with the story. An easy, relaxing read though.
Debbie M
The Almond Tree by Michelle Cohen Corasanti
I thoroughly enjoyed the book, but felt that the math sections a little overwhelming. I earned so much about the relations between the Israelis and the Palestinians. I cannot imagine the terrible living conditions, and the father’s arrest and 6-year imprisonment for nothing. The emphasis on education and a sense of hope at the end of the tunnel display that life can be improved. Also the importance of family and friendship in spite of the horrors and terrors of life shows that relationships are important. I thought that the deaths of various family members were handled too lightly.
Sumiyati E. Monoarfa
Jane's Gift by Karen Erickson
This is a wonderful Christmas story about a family's enduring love and support during a horrific tragedy. There is power in faith, perseverance and love conquers all. I hate reading "spoilers" in reviews, so I'll just end it here.
Richard B
Widower's Two Step by Rick Riordan
Riordan focuses on the music world in this second Tres Nevarre mystery. I really like the character of Tres Nevarre – a tai-chi master with a PhD in medieval English, and a cool head when faced with a dangerous situation. However, the plot gets really convoluted here and doesn’t move fast enough for me. While Riordan has the skill to write in a way that keeps me turning pages, it took too long to set-up the case and I was losing interest.
Tessa BC
A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens
Audio book narrated by Jim Dale. Long before Dr Suess's Grinch, we had Scrooge, the personification of stinginess, smallness and bitterness. A timeless classic. This is an excellent audio version of a 5* book.
Ivy Pittman
Low Pressure by Sandra Brown
It it obvious that a murder that occurred over two decades ago has the residents of Austin in more than a tizzy, when Bellamy writes a tell all book. Even she is questioning if the man convicted of murder was the real murderer.
Sharon Long
The Reversal by Michael Connelly
I actually met Michael Connelly a couple of years ago. I love his books. This one is another with Haller and Bosch working together on a case that is over 20 years old.
Lynn Hough
Deep Down True by Juliette Fay
This was a nice easy read. A little predictable but a good story.
KG
Three Women of Liverpool by Helen Forrester
This book takes place in war torn Liverpool, England .in 1941. It is the story of three women, all neighbors, who each, in their own way try to deal with the effects of World War ll on their lives, their neighbors and their city.
Sandra Furlotte
The Bookwoman's Last Fling by John Dunning
This is the last book in a series featuring Cliff Janeway who is an ex-cop turned book dealer. This book is about a dead bookwoman and her collection of rare books. Cliff is hired to track down some missing books and, at the same time, find out if the collector's death was murder or accident. I love this series because it deals with rare books. It is very sad that due to the illness of the author, it may be the last book about Janeway.
Carole Turner
The Chronicles of Downton Abbey by Jessica Fellowes and Matthew Sturgis
Fans of the much-loved television program will be delighted with this new book. There is an entire chapter about each of the characters. The photographs are excellent. To learn how the series is filmed, the detailed way in which the sets and costumes are designed, and interesting information about that time period, this book is certainly the go-to guide. I have recommended it to all my friends who are DA fans.
Becky C.
Promise Me by Harlan Coben
Coben is a new author for me. He related the story of missing girls, and the title refers to a mother asking her family friend to promise her that he will find her daughter. Promise Me is well written, suspenseful, and leads us to wondering about our own behavior and the possible behavior of those closest to us. Harlan Coben will be on my list of authors for the future.
Elizabeth Panik
Firefly Lane by Kristin Hannah
I loved the thorough development of the characters as they got older and had life experiences. It spanned many years so you really got to know the characters and like or dislike them. The relationship changes between the two main characters were very well described. It was a wonderful story and I couldn't put the book down until I finished it.
Reva Wamsley
City of Darkness by Kim Wright Wiley
I love Anne Perry's books about Victorian England so when I saw this book offered for free, I decided to download it to my Kindle. I was not disappointed.
Jack the Ripper is murdering prostitutes in London. Leanna & her 2 brothers along with their mother are on their way to the reading of the will of their grandfather. Her older brother expects to inherit the estate & the majority of the money as is the custom of that time. They are all shocked when he leaves it to Leanna, the youngest & a girl at that. She's sent to London to stay with her great aunt while everything is sorted out. There she meets two handsome men who vie for her hand.
I can't wait to read the next book in the series that takes place in Paris.
Sharon Herbert
The Good Father by Diane Chamberlain
In one word, excellent. This is one of those books that I'd give 6 stars too if I could. This will be an all time favorite book of mine and I will recommend it every chance I get.
I don't want to say too much about the book because I don't want to give anything away for another reader so I'll keep it simple.
This book is about a single dad, Travis, who is doing his best to raise his 4 yr old little girl, Bella, when tragedy strikes and his world slowly falls apart.
I sure hope Diane Chamberlain gets all the credit she's due with this one. I told my sister while I was reading that I can't wait to see how it ends and at the same time I didn't want it to end.
Shirley Law
The Closers by Michael Connelly
A bit of a slow start but Connelly's Bosch, who is now in the Open/Unsolved unit of LAPD, soon gets the hang of detecting again and the story moves along. The puzzle comes together with a myriad of easy to follow offshoot roads to the final conclusion. Very exciting.
Shirley Law
South of Broad by Pat Conroy
My first Conroy book and I am a complete fan after this book. South of Broad captures the lives of several characters from adolescence through adulthood with many, many tragedies, surprises and situations that could relate to many readers. Conroy writes with humor and a passion for language that knows no bounds. He writes mostly about peoples, times, places in the south.
Shirley Law
Trans-Sister Radio by Chris Bohjalian
This book gives us an indepth look at transgender people and how they come to become trans, the situations they go through to bring them to this decision and the aftermath of this decision. Bohjalian creates a believable situation with a character who is male at birth but female in reality. He meets a woman as a man, falls in love, as does she, and how they both cope with his decision to become female, how it affects her work, her family and their relationship. Excellent descriptive writing.
Suzy Marcus
The Bookseller by Mark Pryor
This first effort by Mark Pryor was a bit of a slow start but the middle and end made up for it! Our hero is both a professional and civilian security expert and the rapidly moving few days we share with him in Paris made we want to revisit the city. Along with Tom, his best friend and unorthodox aide de camp, and Claudia, an intrguing journalist who has secrets of her own, we delve into the world of the bouquiniste, the booksellers with small stalls along the banks of the Seine. I look forward to the next in the Hugo Marston series and recommend this book!
Dawn Byers
Shadow Creek by Joy Fielding
Joy Fielding book grabs ya. The opening keeps me wondering, "what is next?" It tears with emotions as well. A good read.
Debbie M
Dim Sum Dead by Jerrilyn Farmer
I enjoyed this light-hearted mystery set in California about a caterer. Madeline Bean caters parties for the elite of the West Coast, and in doing these parties, she encounters secrets and murder. This novel of the series centers on the Chinese New Year celebration, old movie actors, and the game of mah-jong. The accidental killer in the end is now the person I suspected, but I had a wonderful trip through all the specialty foods and movie trivia.
John Stover
Creole Belle by James Lee Burke
Dave Robicheaux and Clete Purcell are two of my favorite characters as masterfully developed over the years by Mr. Burke. No one describes the locale of New Orleans and New Iberia like Mr. Burke. His writing creates lasting, powerful images of New Orleans, New Iberia, the bayous and cuisine. My one regret is never having the privilege of taking a creative writing course taught by Mr. Burke at the University of Montana. No one captures the experience of being a Vietnam combat veteran like Mr. Burke's compelling accounts. With each new novel, I fear Dave or Clete will not survive, may they live forever.
Kathy Morrison
The Judge Who Stole Christmas by Randy Singer
This is a fiction book about a judge who rules that a live nativity scene in a little town is unconstitutional. This book is a good read for the holiday season.
Nancy Girard
Mr. Penumbra's 24-Hour Bookstore by Robin Sloan
I loved this book. It combines technology and old world books and identifies today's concerns about electronic media taking over the printed word. However, the author just tells his story and does not take sides. I especially liked the humor, the intrigue, the mystery and the final message. While the setting is in a bookstore in San Francisco, it also goes back to the beginning of printed books. It does give Google too much presstime, but it still held my attention. This reads fast and is generally upbeat.
Kathy Vallee
Angels at at the Table by Debbie Macomber
What a wonderful book so extreamly up lifting just the the perfesct read before Christmas! This book is about three angels and thier charge sent to earth to help two people fall in love after many misaps it's looking like it might work.
Sean Penrose
Night Prey by John Sandford
John Sandford has such a gift for writing creepy characters that can be believable and terrifying. Here, in Night Prey, the author gives us another take involving flawed protagonist Lucas Davenport. Davenport’s life is taking turns that he didn’t expect and they case maks it even more unpredictable. The killer’s motivations and actions are eerie and Davenport and his cohorts make logical steps in solving the crimes. Overall, a very good book in a very good series!
john pratt
Gabrielle's Awakening by Alexandra Adams
Excellent reading. Caution, this book is erotic reading, but very good reading. After her husband's death Gabrielle find's out that her husband's best friend Michael has always wanted her. She leaves with Michael for his isolated home to begin her training in "tough love". During this time Michael's friend Raoul comes for a visit & is stunned by Gabrielle's submissive glory. He beins to act out masochistic deeds on her as well. Caught up in the pleasure/ pain of her new world Gabrielle must choose between her two masters. This is a wondeful story with an intresting use of electical devices & curious inventions!!
Sean Penrose
The Green Mile by Stephen King
Stephen King is so talented. This is the proof positive right here. Not the typical King novel. Nothing gory or twisted (for the most part). Just an amazing tale of human nature with a slight supernatural spin. The characters here jump off the page seem alive. The evil in the book is just that and King definitely shows you the shades of grey that exist in our world. Overall, a great book.
Sean Penrose
Nightwing by Martin Cruz Smith
Martin Cruz Smith is one of my favorite writes but I wasn’t sure how a horror novel by him would work out. After reading Nightwing, I can say I would definitely check out anything he writes. While the book reads similar to a Michael Crichton novel it has a spiritual/supernatural twist that increases the interest level. I would have liked the book to be a little longer by expounding on some of the terrorizing scenes involving the bats. While they were the threat, it was a much too fast threat. Overall, a really good book.
Valerie
Kitchen House by kathleen Grissom
LOVED IT! The Kitchen House I couldn't put it down. Finished it in 3 days, these type of books come far and few nowadays. People have such busy schedules, who has time to read? I made time for the Kitchen House. Lavinia, an orphaned seven-year-old white indentured servant in the 1700's, is taken to live on a plantations. She is placed in the kitchen house with a slave named Belle. The book is a shared narration between Lavinia and Belle. They take you on their journey for 20 rocky years. Kathleens message is loud and clear, its not blood, religion, or the color of your skin that makes people family. Family are the peoplewho love and care for you unconditional. Thats what makes you family. LOVE!
merry partridge
Shiver by Karen Robards
Great book!
Krystal Germiquet
The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot
I found this to be a very interesting read. I learned a lot about medical research, but mostly about the woman herself, her personality, her life, her family. This book left me touched as well as questioning patient rights.
Anne Marie Koschnick
Edge of Evil by J. A. Jance
Having read the Beaumont and Brady series, I decided to try this newer one featuring Ali Reynolds, a 40-something woman facing a mid-life crisis. At first, I thought the concept sounded sluggish, a former reporter now a blogger, but I did get caught up in the mystery and positions people took on the various issues discussed in the blog. A good mystery to me is one that I don't know who did it by page 100, and this book certainly did fool me. The discussions of the values of various people helps to open your eyes to the psyche of different people and the issues they are involved in. I will definitely read more in this series (I always try to start with the first in the series) to see how Ali continues to grow.
Jael
Notorious Nineteen by Janet Evanovich
Evanovich needs to write better or end this series. The plots are not believable and the characters are not funny.
Sandra Furlotte
Foreseen by Terri-Lynne Smiles
I received a copy of Foreseen through LibraryThing seeking a review. This first book in a planned trilogy about a group of people called adepts who can use their minds to influence the actions of other is a terrific read. There are so many young adult books being written that are simply re-hashes of the work of other, that it was a pleasant surprise to read such an original storyline with great characters. I look forward with pleasure to the next book. The only drawback is the poor editing of this particular edition - something that is the fault of the publisher and not the author.
Mary Hayden
Buzzard's Table by Margaret Maron
I always enjoy reading books by Margaret Maron, consequently I have given this book 4 stars. I don't feel it is quite as good as most of hers, but still a lot better than a lot of other authors I have read. I will certainly continue to read her.
