February 1, 2013 - February 15, 2013

rhonda
Best Kept Secret by Amy Hatvany

The interaction between a strewed out single mom and a. Her fiddler son will grip you from the first pages and when you realizes he has a drinking problem you will race through the pages.

Mary A. Hebda
The Wolf Gift by Anne Rice

I am about half-way through this book and I would recommend this to all Anne Rice fans.

Bobbie Davis
Russian Winter by Daphne Kalotay

Excellent read about a ballerina, her life in Russia and her escape to America.

Nancy Johansen
Catch Me by Lisa Gardner

Very well written - the suspense keeps my attention and makes it hard to put the book down.

Jeanette Crossett
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austine

Who doesn't like a boy meets gal story? About the Bennet sisters and the family. Elizabeth when she first's meets Darcy. How they can't stand each other at first. But in the book they begin to love each other. Like the movie "Harry meet Sally". It is about sisterhood, family, and communiety and class and society. A classic of all time. Two hundred years it has been published.

Bobbie Davis
The Heavy by Dara-Lynn Weiss

Much too long story about a mother putting her "obese" young daughter on a diet and the problems that occurred.

Sharon Elliott-Fox
The Betrayal: The Lost Life of Jesus: A Novel by Kathleen O'Neal Gear and W. Michael Gear

Less about the lost life of Jesus than a search for the tomb (and possibly the remains) of Jesus, and historical evidence for the political machinations of Constantine.

Sue Pellegrino
The Talk-Funny Girl: A Novel by Roland Merullo

I'm only a little more than halfway through the book and have no idea where it's heading. I like that in a book.

Jan Siefert
A Gift of Hope by Danielle Steel

This is the second nonfiction book written by Danielle Steel. Her first one, "His Bright Light", told of her devastating loss of her son, Nick. In this book, she shares with the reader who and what she encountered spending 11 years on the streets with homeless people. It takes a very special person to do this and Ms. Steel needs to be commended for this.

Diana Trabanco
How It All Began by Penelope Lively

Although the characters are nice they are boring. The plot develops slowly and is somewhat predictable.

Raylene Wauda
No Cheating, No Dying by Elizabeth Weil

The author and her husband decide (he agrees) to improve their marriage over the course of a year. They participate in The Mysteries of Love workshop and have therapy with several professionals as they learn new ways to respond to each other. For example, they listen to their spouse tell a childhood story and then they retell it which helps them to better understand how the person feels and thinks. The couple talked to each other daily (partly because they both write at home), and Ms. Weil read numerous books on the subject of love and marriage (bibliography at the end). Sometimes it seemed that the author wanted gold stars for all the books she read and there was way too much commentary on her husband's food choices (he cooked).

Rena Tobey
Mrs. Lincoln's Dressmaker by Jennifer Chiaverini

Off to a very gentle start, with all too familiar history. I'm waiting for something dramatically more interesting to happen. The lead character Elizabeth Keckley is a window into the story, without having a strong presence or set of emotions, at least not yet.

Karen Stigers
The Paris Wife by Paula McLain

This was our February Book Club choice & I'm really enjoying it.

Donna Shaw
Fear Collector by Gregg Olsen

Girls are missing -- some are dead and others never found. Obsession with Ted Bundy.

Janice Baly
Flight Behavior by Barbara Kingsolver

This is an interesting fictional account of the problems resulting from climate change that cause migrating butterflies to stop in Tennessee rather than Mexico where they have wintered for centuries, and how the lives of the locals are changed by this phenomenon.

Mary Ralls
The Elephant Whisperer by Lawrence Anthony

I am not finished yet. It is very heart warming.

Eileen Quinn Knight,Ph.D.
The Testament of Mary by Colm Toibin

I like Colm Toibin's style and I read his previous book "Brooklyn" which I loved as a person from New York. In this book, The Testament of Mary" Toibin uses his previous understanding of the Blessed Virgin Mary to imagine who she would be in the 20 years after the Gospel story ends. He again does not disappoint anyone! It is respectful yet unique and his religious imagination is evident in the wonderful story he tells.

Marcia Sailer
The Warmest December by Bernice L. McFadden

This novel is the story of a woman coming to terms with the poverty and abusive she grew up with. The father she hates is on his death bed and she relives her horrible past through her memories as she sits beside him. The reader learns of the damage, both physical and emotional, that the past has inflicted on her and the other members of her family. I'm not sure it's a story of forgiveness, as much as coming to an understanding of what happened and why. This is not an uplifting happy story, but a gripping tale revealing the horrors and consequences of living in an abusive home. The story is not sugar-coated so won't be for everyone.

Phyllis S
Recipes for Easy Living by Curtiss Ann Matlock

Delightful story about a big extended family living in the small town of Valentine. Papa Tate and Aunt Marilee are caring for Willie Lee and 13-year-old Corrine and its a merry chase. Just a sweet, simple story about good folks who make up the community.

Mary Bushnell
Sutton by J. R. Moehringer

A fictional story of the life of Willie Sutton, bank robber in the early 20th century. Makes you think Willie was a good man in poor circumstances. He was good at spining tales of his life & making himself seem a modern day Robin Hood. The banks were robbing people of their life savings so why not rob the banks?

Paula Martin
The Dog Stars by Peter Heller

It has happened, what many fear, and there are survivors. Heller taps into our intermost emotions as we contemplate our own fears and reactions. His use of prose causes reflection. In fact, there is so much to consider the use of prose is a very effecive style. An excellent read. I highly recommend it.

Diana Hill
Mr. Churchill's Secretary by Susan Elia MacNeal

Love this heroine. Takes place in London in WWII. Maggie Hope becomes the secretary at #10 Downing St. Intrigue, suspense and a wonderful list of characters makes this a quick read. Two books follow Maggie as she helps England in their struggle to defeat the Nazis.

Muriel Logan
Another Piece of My Heart by Jane Green

I really got wrapped up in the lives of the characters and cared about what was happening to all of them. I thought at first I wouldn't be that interested in the book since it dealt with a step parent situation. I didn't think I could relate to the problems occurring in this type of family situation. I got to thinking, however, that in today's world with the divorce rate as high as it is, that unfortunately, one of my children could possibly end up as a step parent. There could possibly be a lot of feelings of hurt and hostility to work through. We plan to use the book in our book club, and I know the book has introduced many family related topics for us to discuss.

Annie Joyce
S.E.C.R.E.T. by L. Marie Adeline

I received SECRET for review and to be honest I was not quite sure about it as it was a little out of my comfort zone. But when I came upon the name of my little brothers band in the book mentioned on page 91... "The Smoking Time Jazz Club Band" I knew I had made the right reading choice! SECRET is a fun, quick and racy read that every woman should run out and buy!

Carolyn
Black Fridays by Michael Sears

I really enjoyed this from start to finish. Highly recommended!

sandy haber
Can't Hurry Love by Molly O'Keefe

Only problem I had with this was remembering the back story!

Eve Phipps
The Garden Of Evening Mists by Tan Twan Eng

Beautifully written story of Malaysa post-WWII.

Lorraine
The 19th Wife by David Ebershoff

A fascinating tale of polygamy from it's beginnings and it's impact on society even today.

Valerie Wiesner
Two Graves by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child

This book was the last one in the Helen Pendergast trilogy (after 'Fever Dream' and 'Cold Vengeance') and it was a great finale. I never thought the authors were going in the direction they went, but it was interesting, thrilling, and a great read. It also made me think about the dangers of advances in science. Very good book.

Valerie R.
The Lost Manuscript of Jane Austen by Syrie James

I LOVE the way Syrie writes! Her characters are so believable - makes you feel like you're right there listening & watching as the story unfolds.

Valerie Wiesner
Say You're Sorry by Michael Robotham

This was a puzzling and thrilling mystery to try and solve as a reader. I have read Mr. Robotham's other books, but this one is completely different and I never would have guessed some of the events that occurred. I absolutely devoured this book!

Margaret Herring
Beautiful Ruins by Jess Walter

Great escape!

Ivy Pittman
Dearie: The Remarkable Life of Julia Child by Bob Spitz

Inspiring! Dearie is for the lost souls. Child was a trailblazer before it was even a a trend. Enlightening read about one can do with support and passion.

S ANDERSON
Wonder by R. J. Palacio

Ten-year-old Augie has a facial deformity and was home schooled until now. This year he's attending school for the first time. His story is told from several different perspectives.

mary sue skelton
The Elegance of the Hedgehog by Muriel Barbery

This is a lovely and literate book translated from the French. It is reminiscent of some of the Eloise books and takes place in a large hotel with permanent residents. The main focal characters are the older woman concierge (who is very intelligent), a 12-year-old girl, who is also very intelligent, and an older Japanese man who is the same. He is the one who changes everybody's life from the moment he moves into the hotel. I am only half-way into the book, but it promises to be one of a kind; memorable and indelible.

Becky C.
The Paris Wife by Paula McLain

The story of Ernest Hemingway and his wife, Hadley, traveling to Paris, Spain, Riviera, etc, meeting lots of arty folks in the 1920's.

Katharine Walczak
Home Front by Kristin Hannah

Good story, but predictable. The book gives the reader a good sense of war and its toll on family. The characters, however, are rather one dimensional.

Linda Johnson
Murder in the Marais by Cara Black

Aimee Leduc, private eye, is introduced in the first of this series of mysteries that take place in Paris. The story was complicated. A Jewish woman who survived the Nazis is discovered murdered with a swastika carved into her forehead. This is far from the last dead body in the book. I was engaged with most of the story and able to keep the numerous characters straight, but felt the ending was quick and unsatisfying. Being this is the first of the series, I will continue to read to see how the author and the character develop.

Lisa Richardson
The Unfinished Garden by Barbara Claypole White

I loved this book, and it was very different from anything I've read before. I've never gotten such a good depiction of someone that has OCD, in a touching, and empathetic story that depicts life in all it's highs and lows. The story made me cry several times, and I felt like I was in the story.

Marion Peterman
Porch Lights by Dorothea Benton Frank

I have spent five years living in the South when I was young. This story brought back memories of what I liked and miss from there.The characters are like old friends. The resolving of family issues is key to the plot as is the happiness of the main people in the book. This is nicely written with humor woven in and out. I love her books!

myrna lippman
The Last Runaway by Tracy Chevalier

A wonderfully written novel about the Underground Railroad operating in 1850 in Ohio and the Quakers' role in it.

JoAnn Carroll
An Invisible Thread by Laura Schroff

There are a few reasons I really liked this book. First was the setting. It made many references to New York and Long Island, places I am very familiar with since I live there. Next was the plot of a woman who takes an underprivileged, ghetto child and becomes his mentor and confidante. As a former teacher, I have known many of these children whose only chance is to have someone in their lives who cares abd guides them to be better people and rise above their circumstances. Books which have a personal connection with the reader have always been favorites of mine. It makes it easy to identify with the characters and the theme of the story.

Allison Gardner
A Single Thread by Marie Bostwick

Great story about women's friendships.

Kathrine Rutledge
Killing Lincoln by Bill O'Reilly and Martin Dugard

Interesting and enjoyable read. Learned a lot about the last days of the Civil War and Lincoln's last days.

Lynda Schoenbeck
Hostile Witness by Rebecca Forster

A fast paced thriller about a disturbed young girl put on trial for killing her step-father's father, a former judge. We find out early on that the judge was even more disturbed than his victim. He was a vile, sadistic man that left a trail of victimized children and youth in his wake over a period of many years. The attorney heroine is an interesting mix of competent legal aggression and a traumatic personal past that haunts her still. The author is adept at helping us understand and even feel sorry for a cast of characters that on the surface are deeply flawed, and even repugnant at times. A great read!

Linda Carlson
The Little Bookstore of Big Stone Gap by Wendy Welch

Book lovers will absolutely love this book. Witty, well-written true story of how Wendy and her husband opened this amazing bookstore in western Virginia. A treasure for sure; run to your nearest independent bookstore and buy this book. You will love it!

Jeanie Deem
Home Front by Kristin Hannah

Couldn't put it down--very poignant. Generated very good discussion within our book club.

Lori Young
The Secret Keeper by Kate Morton

I love historical fiction and Kate Morton's books. It's one, as with all her novels, that includes a mystery --- and kept me guessing until the end!

Maureen Timerman
Unbreakable (Road to Kingdom) by Nancy Mehl

This is the second book in this series and another really great read. It will keep you guessing. Who is behind the fires and even the murder? We find Hope being run off the road, her buggy tipping, and along comes Jonathon in his truck. He gives comfort to Hope and helps her. All of a sudden this peaceful Mennonite Community is under attack. Ebbie wants them to follow under Gods Protection, not violence. However, Jonathon thinks they should at least carry guns, even unloaded.

Erika Loiacono
The Twelve Tribes of Hattie by Ayana Mathis

I would have liked to know more about certain characters.

WALTER KRETZMANN
A Killing in the Hills by Julia Keller

An excellent murder mystery by a female author with a female hero. Not to worry, though, nothing "chick lit" about it.

Melanie S.
With or Without You by Domenica Ruta

I received this book as an ARC; it's due out the end of February. I'm not a fan of memoirs, but this book was so well done and drew me in completely. The writing is beautiful. This is an autobiography of a woman who is brought up in a very dysfunctional environment near Boston. While there are many memoirs out there that try and shock you as if to say, "My story is the worst of all and look how I turned out." (THE GLASS CASTLE comes to mind; I didn't care for that book.) Ms. Ruta feels so authentic, and I didn't feel as if she had an agenda in telling her shocking and heart-wrenching story of survival and catharsis. I think many will relate to her story, whatever their upbringing. I hope to read more from this gifted author in the future.

REBECCA STEPHEN
Lizzie's Blue Ridge Memories by Liesa Swejkoski

I could not stop reading this book. It is not a thick book so it did not take long. I love old stories about how life was then, and this book is about the authors grandparents. I loved reading this book, and will pass it on to others. I usually donate my books after everyone has read them to help other people read great books.

Judy Ross
Back Home Again (Tales from Grace Chapel Inn, Book 1) by Melody Carlson

Tales from the Grace Chapel Inn is published by Guideposts. I cannot wait for the next book to arrive.

Judy Ross
Fifty Shades of Grey by E. L. James

I was very disappointed at the way this book went from one sexual scene to another. It was like an instructive manual. I finished all three books, waiting for something other than an encounter in the red room or a tragedy. Yawn...

Diane Porter
Mrs. Lincoln's Dressmaker by Jennifer Chiaverini

This book is well researched, and written in a formal style reminiscent of the age it is portraying. Elizabeth Keckley is the former slave who uses her dressmaking skills to become the sought after modiste in Washington. The life of Lizzie is shown to be one of hard work, yet she is appreciative of her lot in life. There is much of the background story of the Civil War with a broad picture of the harsh realities without having that as a focus. Mrs. Lincoln is portrayed in various years during both her life in the White House and beyond through Lizzie's eyes. I am interested in reading many of the sources materials that were listed in Chiaverini's acknowledgments. In my opinion, this would be a great book for discussion at a book group.

Diane Porter
Trackers by Deon Meyer

Trackers is a translation from Afrikaans, but in this case the translation doesn't get in the way of the story. Meyer has a subtle sense of humor that enriches the story of poaching in South Africa. The characters are richly drawn, and the story moves at a pace that pulls the reader forward. I would definitely recommend this book to those who like mystery and a taste of being far from home.

Janet Estridge
A Man of His Word by Karen Kelly

This book is in the "Annie's Attic Mysteries" Series. It is set in a small town in Maine where the members of the Hook and Needle Club live. Danger, adventures, and heartwarming discoveries abound in the secrets Annie uncovers.

Frankie Edenzon
1Q84 by Haruki Murakami, Jay Rubin, Philip Gabriel

Very unique read. Sometimes, I find myself thinking that I am living in parallel worlds since reading this book. The author does an excellent job uniting what appear to be very different stories as the book progresses. If you start out frustrated, stick with it. It is worth it.

Laura Beierbach
Private Berlin by James Patterson & Mark Sullivan

So-so. Still out on whether I really enjoyed it.

Suzanne Wyse
Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel

Hilary Mantel does an excellent job of bringing Henry VIII and those around him to life. She gives a different slant on the character of Thomas Cromwell. Since reading the book, I have delved deeper into the lives and times of the Tudors.

Jane McCown
The Truest Pleasure by Robert Morgan

Morgan tells a beautiful but heart wrenching story of an Appalachian family after the Civil War. The characters are vividly drawn, and their trials and joys make this book hard to put down.

Susan Johnson
The Kashmir Shawl by Rosie Thomas

Five stars for The Kashmir Shawl! In the first few pages, I felt like I was watching a movie unfold. It didn't take long for the character of Nerys to unfold in the early 1940's as a missionary's wife in India, while, in modern times, her granddaughter Mair was seeking the story behind a beautiful Kashmir shawl. The book unveils a story of the different facets of love, contrasts the life of earlier days in India with a modern curiosity of seeking out family lineage, and the frivolous side and yet a more humbler side of loneliness while a husband is miles away. I was pulled into feeling and knowing each character, and found Thomas's writing to be so close to reality that I felt I was right there along the way.

Lesley Fry
The Woman at the Light by Joanna Brady

I am enjoying this book so much. It is about a woman who runs a light house in Key West in the 1840's, and who falls in love with a runaway slave. I would not call it "woman's" fiction because it is full of action and tells a great story. It also has much information about early Key West and south Florida which is new to me, someone who grew up near Miami. Read it! You'll like it!

Joann Dees
The Aviator's Wife by Melanie Benjamin

Only 1/4 way through the book; I am not captivated but very interested in learning about these well-known people and how different their real lives are from their perceived ones.

Kathy Iwasaka
L.A. Confidential by James Ellroy

I just started reading this for our book group and I'm hoping it will engage me soon. Terse, descriptive sentences; it's the way I write, but not the style I like to read. Four stars for the benefit of the doubt.

Robert L. Cusick
Darkness Rising by Lis Wiehl

Excellent read; part two of a three part trilogy. I enjoy her writings. A light read, but interesting.

Helen Duncan
Lost in Shangri-La: A True Story of Survival, Adventure, and the Most Incredible Rescue Mission of World War II by Mitchell Zuckoff

Though the author tends toward melodrama in spots (the story is dramatic enough without that tone), it's a fascinating collection of information about a very remote and mysterious part of the world. The basic details of the story are amazing and have been turned into a very interesting read.

Rosemary Sobczak
The Onion Book of Known Knowledge: A Definitive Encyclopaedia Of Existing Information by The Onion

Another take on our "knowledge." Wacky but fun.

Robert L. Cusick
Godforsaken Sea: The True Story of a Race Through the World's Most Dangerous Waters by Derek Lundy

I'm a big sailor, and I really enjoy books that are related to sailing and world racing.

Kristen Stewart
The Round House by Louise Erdrich

This is a compelling read so far. Joe, the narrator, makes the reader feel like they're on the reservation. I'm also learning about Tribal law v. federal and local law.

Carroll Savage
Kitchen House by Kathleen Grissom

Enjoying so much this page turning story of slavery and families of the Old South as seen through the eyes of a white indentured servant.

Kathy Martocci
The Invisible Bridge by Julie Orringer

Excellent book on the WWII era. A Jewish Hungarian student studies in Paris, but is forced to leave and fight for his country. This book spans several years, and details a love affair, life in Paris at that time and the role Hungary played in the war. Excellent for anyone that enjoys historical fiction.

Lynn W
Saturday Night Widows: The Adventures of Six Friends Remaking Their Lives by Becky Aikman

Ms. Aikman, a 40ish widow of a couple of years, is ready to get on with her life and goes to a widow's meeting. She is asked not to come back! Over the next year, she finds five young widows and they agree to meet once a month for a year to learn how to live past the worst thing they thought could happen. The differences between grieving men and women were enlightening.

Candace Martin
The Color Purple by Alice Walker

I am finally reading THE COLOR PURPLE, and I am understanding some things that I missed in the movie adaptation.

Michelle Boswell
Starting Now by Debbie Macomber

We return to Blossom Street with the new characters that frequent the yarn store. Libby is a lawyer that is terminated from her job, which is her life. We see how she finds a life outside of work and a shifting of her priorities.

Carolyn A. Milliser
Home Front by Kristin Hannah

About a wife and mother in the military, a hero at war and at home, and the battles she faces in both places. Her husband attorney can't cope with the additional responsibilities of the children, and their already stressed marriage is pushed to the boundaries when she returns from deployment and begins treatments for injuries and PTSD. After reading this, I bought copies for several of my military friends. This has been an insightful look for me, who lives near a military base and the heroes that protect our country, who sacrifice so much for our comfortable way of life. It is a story about family, love and loss, and most importantly, honor and duty.

Linda Reck
The Twelve Tribes of Hattie by Ayana Mathis

I found the chapters being told from different points of view a little disconcerting. I enjoyed it when Hattie spoke. All together, the book is a compassionate portrait hardened by the circumstance of life.

Julie
The Condition by Jennifer Haigh

The story of a family that has to deal the diagnosis of a daughter with a condition that keeps her trapped in the body of a child. The book explores the dynamics of a family, and the ups and downs that connect fathers, mothers and siblings forever.

Susan Stack
A Week in Winter by Maeve Binchy

Perfect book when you live in Northern Wisconsin.

Marsha
The Black Box by Michael Connelly

Bosch is obsessed with a cold case that happened twenty years ago. He was a responding officer to a killing of a Dutch correspondent during the LA riots. Despite his new lieutenant, who dislikes Bosch, Bosch pursues the case. It is quite the thriller.

Doris Willis
The Racketeer by John Grisham

Pure Grisham; you'll know the ending by page 10.

Laurie W
Private Berlin by James Patterson & Mark Sullivan

The newest release in the Private series was very engaging. I couldn't put it down; I finished in one day! The novel is set in Berlin, and explores East and West Germany and the fall of the Berlin wall. And of course, there is a slaughterhouse and murder involved!

Gil Harris
Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn

Camille, a cub reporter for a Chicago newspaper, goes home to her small town in Missouri to get the scoop on the recent murder of two teen age girls. Is it a serial killer? Is it somebody local or a stranger? Is it a man or woman? Camille has to face some of her own demons, particularly her relationship with her mother. A psychological thriller. A surprise ending!

Patti DeMares
The Budda in the Attic by Julie Otsuka

A very descriptive book about the lives of young Japanese women coming to America as picture brides. Very interesting read concerning the treatment,and determination of these young women and the men they agreed to come to marry..

Pat S
Footprints in the Sand by Mary Jane Clark

Her books are light, easy reads, and can "take you away" for just a little while. Enjoy them.

Amy Bransfield
Sea Change by Karen White

This was an intriguing book that blended the stories of a modern-day new love with that of a devoted husband and wife living in the early 1800s. I enjoyed it, and felt it combined the two stories well.

Lynn Barber
A Land More Kind Than Home by Wiley Cash

This book is character driven with three narrators leading you on a quest for the truth. I enjoyed the family dynamics, interwoven story lines and wanted to know the answers! Two young brothers, Jess and Christopher witness something they should not have seen which sets off a chain of events with tragic consequences!

Anita Nowak
William & Lucy: A Tale of Suspicion and Love by Michael Brown

This was a very interesting historical story. It was invented by Mr Brown through the poems of Wordsworth. Wordsworth wrote about a woman named Lucy. Though there is no proof that Lucy ever existed, it was certainly a very interesting concept tossed in with some actual facts about the poet. I really enjoyed this book!

Linda Harrison
Sweet Talk by Julie Garwood

This was a thoroughly enjoyable book as are most of Garwood's books. In this one, a young lady going for a job interview gets more than she bargains for when an FBI agent suddenly slams the employer's bodyguard to the floor. When her eyes lock with the FBI agent, they each realize that they have found someone special.

Linda Harrison
Against the Odds by Kat Martin

This was the first book by Kat Martin that I’ve read, and I thoroughly enjoyed the book. The suspense of determining who the “bad guy” was kept you reading till the end, and the developing love between playboy Alex and Sabrina was a plus.

Linda Harrison
Two Graves by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child

This book takes up where COLD VENGEANCE leaves off, and the main character is the eccentric FBI Agent Aloysius Pendergast. He comes up against the elusive Covenant again, and tracks them to their hideout in the jungles of Brazil. Although the plot is a little far-fetched, the book is good.

Linda Harrison
The Fifth Assassin by Brad Meltzer

I would recommend reading THE INNER CIRCLE first as this book relates to a lot of occurrences that happened in that book. Although this book is very good, it jumps around a lot. There have been four presidential assassinations, and Beecher White and his group are working to prevent a fifth, even though this president is about as bad as you can imagine.

Linda Harrison
The Forgotten by David Baldacci

I have read all of David Baldacci's books and loved all of them, especially the ones about the Camel Club. This book is about John Puller, Army CID. When he goes to Paradise, Florida to check on his aunt, he has no idea what he is getting into, and finds Paradise anything but paradise. This was a great book that was hard to put down.

Linda Harrison
Edge of Black by J. T.Ellison

I did not enjoy this book as I had others written by Ellison. In this one, officials are trying to find out what sort of poisonous gas was released in the Washington D.C. subway system.

Linda Harrison
Tidewater Inn by Colleen Coble

A nice story about a restoration expert inheriting an old inn on valuable oceanfront property.

Linda Harrison
Little Bitty Lies by Mary Kay Andrews

An enjoyable read, as are most of Andrews’ books.You will find yourself laughing throughout the book.

Linda Harrison
Stolen Prey by John Sandford

Sandford's character, Lucas Davenport, is investigating the brutal torture/murder of a family that has all the earmarks of a Mexican gang torture. The investigation takes him into the illegal hacking of a bank and the transfer of a Mexican gang’s laundered money. An enjoyable book.

Linda Harrison
Wyoming Fierce by Diana Palmer

A great story of a man returning from Afghanistan embittered due to the partial loss of his arm, and how the love of a young girl saved him from becoming an alcoholic.

Donna Kitchell
Killing Floor by Lee Child

This is Lee Child's first novel, and my favorite so far. This is only the second one I've read, but they are very good. I can understand the popularity. Everyone has a little desire to be like Jack Reacher.

Betsy Beyler
Remarkable Creatures by Tracy Chevalier

It is amazing to contemplate about what people knew of the world and science 200 years ago, and how they felt about women in the world and in science.

Judy O.
Flight from Berlin by David John

This story takes place during the time of the 1936 Olympics in Berlin. Hitler is in power, and the country is dangerous. Richard Denham is a journalist in Berlin and becomes the keeper of an extremely important dossier about Hitler. The Nazis will stop at nothing to get a hold of it. The air ship, The Hindenburg, is also a main "character" in this book. Multi-layered plot and exciting.

Lisa
Stories I Only Tell My Friends by Rob Lowe

I was pleasantly surprised by Rob Lowe's book, and never having been a big fan, I really like him more now. The only thing that was unnecessary was the use of the F-word. Other than that, I enjoyed all the stories, and respect him as a man and father, husband, son, etc. I thought his life was interesting and well worth reading. I appreciate the love he has for his family and all the people who helped him get to where he is now.

Kristy Bloss
Les Miserables by Victor Hugo

I decided that the classics are the way to go. These books have true substance. The last book I felt good about reading, and felt thoroughly engaged in was JANE EYRE, when I read it as an adult instead of a high school student. I am reading through Les Miserables very slowly and carefully, and enjoying a story I know well but have not read in its true form.

Sean Penrose
The Innocent Mage by Karen Miller

I can’t remember exactly what lead this book to being on my “to-read,” but its been there awhile. I finally decided to go for it, and I wish I kept passing it by. The first four hundred pages of the book amounted to little more than waiting for something important to happen. Oddly enough, it never really did. That last third of the book, we finally get an antagonist who is interesting, but its too little too late. The dialogue was stiff and the fantasy world of Lur created by Karen Miller isn’t that fantastically. In fact, they have mayonnaise?! If the book would’ve ramped up the action earlier and not left off the way it did, sequel or no, this could have been a decent book. Sadly, it's not worth your time.

Maria Olah
Narcopolis by Jeet Thayil

This novel is a journey into the underworld of Bombay,India. Unfamiliar to most readers, it is a real eye-opener. Written by Jeet Thayil in a very unique style, as if he was hallucinating after a session of opium smoking. Sometimes very funny, always smart and thought-provoking.

Annette Schmidt
The Aviator's Wife by Melanie Benjamin

I have read Melanie Benjamin's other two books, and she has a knack for bringing historical characters to life. Anne Morrow Lindbergh is an admirable woman who had a private life that is not known by many. What she had to put up with would have made many women walk away from her marriage to Charles.

Fran O
666 Park Ave by Gabriella Pierce

Cute story complete with romance, friendship and a creepy mother in law. I got this book because I liked the TV show. Aside from the main characters being named Malcolm and Jane, there is nothing else similar! Not a bad book, though.

Bonnie Gluhanich
Long Time No See by Susan Isaacs

A fun read. It's a mystery, but read it more for Isaacs's clever and witty writing. She's never a disappointment.

Jane Kahikina
The Bride's House by Sandra Dallas

A wonderful story that spans three generations of brides living in the Bride's House.

Debra Rehn
Beautiful Ruins by Jess Walter

Gorgeous, funny, poignant, human, humane, bittersweet --- in short, it's glorious, crazy life. One of the best novels I've read in many years.

Phoenix
Dropped Names by Frank Langella

A frank and, sometimes, revealing tribute to countless mostly famous folk that the author has crossed paths with during his long life in film and theater.

Jennifer Lehman
The Beautiful Mystery by Louise Penny

I love Penny's murder mysteries. I can never put one done once I start. The characters are great, complex and interesting. Also, it's not a scary read, which I totally appreciate.

elaine Beierbach
Touch & Go by Lisa Gardner

It has a great story line.

nEDRA sHULTZ
Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail by Cheryl Strayed

A very good read.

Marie Ledin
The Husband List by Janet Evanovich and Dorien Kelly

An independent and rebellious young woman from one of America's most wealthy families must be presented for marriage to someone of foreign position who, hopefully, would propose. In the late 1890s, the wealthy didn't marry for love, they married for prestige and money, and were expected to marry within their place in society. How she fights back and tries to find and marry the man she truly loves is quite entertaining. A fun read. Won this book from Bookreporter.com in their monthly Word of Mouth contest.

Laurie Sula
Mrs. Lincoln's Dressmaker by Jennifer Chiaverini

Fantastic! This book gives you more insight into Mary Lincoln's life, and also, into the life of a free black woman during the Civil War.

Debbie Smith
All Gone: A Memoir of My Mother's Dementia. With Refreshments by Alex Witchel

This book deals with how a daughter is dealing with her mother, who has a form of dementia caused by small strokes. There is a lot of background information on the family growing up, and also, how important the role of food played in the daughter's mind. This was a fairly quick read, and I enjoyed the book.

Janeene
Defending Jacob by William Landay

Wow! Here's hoping that all my 2013 reads are as good as this one! DEFENDING JACOB pulls you in quickly, and I found myself wanting to read faster to see what was going to happen. Suspenseful, good character development; an all around great read!

Janeene
Before I Go to Sleep by S.J. Watson

3.5 Stars. Initially took me a little bit to get into the groove of the writing, but once I did, it was an interesting story line that keeps you reading to see what is real versus what her memory lets her remember.

Janeene
The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry by Rachel Joyce

3.5 Stars. Another really good 2013 read. Though a little slow to start, you quickly start to cheer on Harold. When it comes to a pivotal part in the book, so much is explained, and you have to go back and reassess other parts of the book. A good read for all types of readers!

Pat Askins
The Kashmir Shawl by Rosie Thomas

This is one of the best books I have read recently. I learned about India in the past and in the present day in a very interesting manner. Historical fiction is my favorite, and I have recommended this book to all my friends. I could not put it down. Very touching too.

Lori
Vaclav and Lena by Haley Tanner

I enjoyed this book. The author did a great job bringing to life a young boy and later, a teenager. It was an interesting spin on an immigrant story. I listened to the audio version, which really made me connect with the characters thanks to the accents used by the reader.

Jan Kanowitz
Me Before You by Jojo Moyes

ME BEFORE YOU tells the story of Will and Louisa. Will was a very rich and active man who became a quadriplegic in a horrific accident. Louisa is a woman with a loving family, and has been in a small town all of her life. Louisa is hired to care for Will, and the two of them learn a lot about themselves. Will slowly helps Louisa view the future in grander terms. Louisa tries very hard to help Will see that he does have a future and life is worth living. However, Will truly has a very difficult time seeing that his life is worth living in this reduced state. What happens as Will and Louisa interact is a great story that will make you laugh and cry. The ending of this novel drained me. Moyes is a truly gifted writer.

Lynn W
Thomas Jefferson: The Art of Power by Jon Meacham

I really liked this book. It had enough detail and new information to keep it interesting, but not so much that it slowed down. Highly recommend to those who like reading about the founding fathers of the country.

Janet Wiebe
The Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman

I absolutely loved this book. I couldn't put it down. It will pull your heart strings, and leave you thinking about the characters long after you are done with the book.

Kelly Thomas
Home Front by Kristin Hannah

Best one of hers so far! Love it!

Lynn W
The Painted Girls by Cathy Marie Buchanan

Based on real people and events, this novel "is a tale of two remarkable sisters rendered uniquely vulnerable to the darker impulses of civilized society." This book is a treasure of sisterly love.

WALTER KRETZMANN
The Marriage Plot by Jeffrey Eugenides

While I liked the sentence structure and writing of Mr. Eugenides, I found that I liked the parts where Mitchel was traveling, and would have liked that as a separate novel. I found too much repetition in retelling what had already happened previously in the novel. I also thought that Madeline's character and that of her parents were contrived at best. I liked his book MIDDLESEX better.

Jeanette Mateer
Year of Wonders by Geraldine Brooks

This is our book for March and I'm already into it. There is so much language from the Middle Ages that I almost wish I were reading it on an electronic device for quick dictionary access. The story is amazing and the author's descriptions make me feel like I am there.

Debbie M
The Paris Wife by Paula McLain

I had admired Ernest Hemingway and his writing for many years, but my opinion of "Papa" changed after listening to this fictional account of the Paris years of Ernest Hemingway and Hadley Richardson. I felt that drinking and carousing best describe the time in Paris, even though Hemingway maintained a certain work ethic with his writing. I also felt dislike for the weak man that was the true character of Hemingway who allowed various wives to financially support him. One of my book clubs is reading THE SUN ALSO RISES, and so many of the scenes are shown in THE PARIS WIFE. I felt THE PARIS WIFE to be sordid and debasing at times. And, felt that the characters thought themselves to be little gods and beyond public reproach.

bk
The Program by Stephen White

Psychologist Alan Gregory is involved in another murder mystery. His small practice in Boulder, Colorado acquires two patients, who are part of the Witness Protection Program. One of them is a killer. The other is a former District Attorney, who is being hunted by a killer. I have enjoyed all the Dr. Gregory books, and look forward to future ones.

bk
The King of Lies by John Hart

A small town North Carolina lawyer ends up in a legal thriller of his own when his highly successful lawyer father disappears after their mother's 'accidental' death. The father was not a nice person, and both the son and his mentally fragile sister believe each is responsible. I was impressed by the author’s use of the English language. It was a treat to read a book by a true wordsmith, who created good characters and an interesting plot. I listened on CD, and the performance by David Chandler was excellent.

bk
Sweet Tooth by Ian McEwan

A British beauty in 1972 strikes out to make her boring life as a parson’s daughter something more. She’s a math whiz at Cambridge. Her love life leads her to the spy service during the Cold War, which leads to a complicated work and private life. The ending was great. Some of the earlier parts required wading boots to get through. It was confusing in parts because I was listening on CD. The girl is an avid reader, and the author would have her reading some passages from the books she was enjoying. It was difficult sometimes for me to tell if I was listening to the main story or the girl reading a story she was enjoying.

MARCIA PINTO
Aztec by Gary Jennings

Fantastic and very well researched historical novel. This has so captured my interest that I plan to read the two sequels, and wish there were more of them.

Martha D,
The Sisters Montclair by Cathy Holton

I'm just loving this book. Alice Montclair and Stella Nightingale are such lively, entertaining characters, and the story of their lives have kept me spellbound.

Donna Haueter
The Aviator's Wife by Melanie Benjamin

What a wonderful insight into a little known famous wife and author. I loved the way the wife, Anne, was brought to life and told her own powerful story.

Rena Ackley
NW by Zadie Smith

The stream of consciousness style of writing used in this novel made it difficult to follow. Connecting the characters throughout the three distinct sections of the book required a bit of work. Ms. Smith does give a remarkable portrayal of this section of London and the contrasts in social class. This was a requested gift, and I will probably reread to see if I can fit the pieces together. Definitely not an easy read, but it makes you think about many areas of life and how the place and circumstances of our birth affect our lives.

Crystal Blackburn
Arsenic and Old Puzzles: A Puzzle Lady Mystery by Parnell Hall

"Arsenic and Old Puzzles" is the latest (published January 2013) funny and interesting cozy mystery featuring Cora Felton, the much married, crotchety Puzzle Lady. I did not figure out the solution to the mystery until the very end.

Jean
Ghost Ship by P. J. Alderman

I was so excited to read this cozy mystery, however I was disappointed. I found it to be just an okay read.

DeAnn Acosta
Peaches for Father Francis by Joanne Harris

I really like this "Chocolat" series and found this new one to be quite interesting. Vianne is very much Juliette Binoche to me! Reading this book makes me want to visit France again.

Elaine Beierbach
Touch and Go by Lisa Gardner

Would love to win to keep a copy.

Harikleia Sirmans
Mistress of My Fate by Hallie Rubenhold

Excellent book! I cannot put it down.

Laura Hilger
Hopeless by Colleen Hoover

The twists in the second half of the book had me gasping. I am pretty good at guessing what's going to happen next but not with Hopelesss. I love when I am reading a book and I can honestly say, I didn't see that coming. By the way, this book is about so much more than young romance. It has a little mystery, suspense and family secrets that will blow you away! I would recommend reading it to anyone who asks me, 18 or 80.

Ginny Wexler
Crystal Cove by Lisa Kleypas

Loved the lastest in Lisa's Friday Harbor series. It's an amazing story of two very different people who are very right for each other. Loved it. Run, don't walk, to get this new book!

WALTER KRETZMANN
The Beautiful Mystery by Louise Penny

Although I am a huge Louise Penny fan and have eagerly awaited each new arrival, I must confess I was a bit disappointed with this one. I found the ending melodramatic and Beauvoir's actions near the end simply unbelievable. I wish she would bring the factory raid chapter to a close and let these characters get on with their lives.

Gretchen Carolan
The Twelve Tribes of Hattie by Ayana Mathis

For a debut book by the author I thought the writing was very good, very interesting book.

Sandy McCullough
Dreams of Joy by Lisa See

This was a beautiful story of a young chinese girl who learns that her mother is really her aunt and her aunt is really her mother. She lives in the United States and she decides that everything she has heard about China is wonderful and she goes back. It takes her quite awhile to find out that she has made a big mistake!! She does find her birth father and that is one good thing that happens to her. I loved every bit of this book even the few really rough chapters telling the truth about the countryside of China.

Gretchen Carolan
The Plum Tree by Ellen Marie Wiseman

The book starts out in 1938 in Germany with Christine working for a weathly Jewish family and falling in love with their son. But this is so much more than a love story, with all the horrors that the family face with the war and being German. If you liked Sarah's Key then I would recommend this book. Excellect debut book by the author, can't wait for her second book!

Jackie R.
Die Trying by Lee Child

Very exciting read!

Robin McKay
Something New by Janis Thomas

“Something New” is about a bored house wife who decides that it is time to make a few changes in her life. Ellen goes on a diet, begins to exercise, and give more attention to her appearance. Quite by chance, Ellen’s cousin tells her about a blog competition. The idea grows on Ellen and she reluctantly decides to enter. While on a visit to her cousin’s house, Jill, she meets the next door neighbor, handsome detective Ben Campbell. What starts as a tongue-tied first encounter, quickly moves toward a flirtation with a strong sexual tension. As her blog getting more attention and her encounters with Ben moving closer to intimacy, Ellen’s life begins to teeter. Was she right to try “Something New” ?

Susan Fifer
Death at the Chateau Bremont by M. L. Longworth

Good mystery takes place in a small town in France. Likable characters and well-developed plot.

Kathleen Doyle
A Casual Vacancy by J. K. Rowling

The many characters in this story were very well developed, flawed, and very realistic! JK did a great job introducing and expanding each charactr in the first half of the book, then drawing them all together for a tragic ending. This was a great read! All 14 in our Book Group loved it!

Jodie Busch
The Invisible Bridge by Julie Orringer

Julie Orringer writes so beautifully about a very difficult and sensitive subject. This well traveled territory is viewed from a different perspective. So far this is a really wonderful book and I look forward to reading more of Orrigner's work.

veronica mackinnon
Home Front by Kristin Hannah

It is very good; a great story and i know will be a very good book to discuss

Maureen Ronan
Margaret from Maine by Joseph Monninger

I love a World War II romance. And a strong woman!!

Michael McAdam
Sizzling Sixteen by Janet Evanovich

Still enjoying this series. It is getting more and more far fetched but it is still fun so I am still in. LOVE these characters. Yes, the ongoing book-to-book plots stagnate at times or move at a glacial pace but it is still very enjoyable.

Lois Belliveau
My Own Country by Abraham Verghese

I just finished My Own Country by Abraham Verghese, author of Cutting For Stone. Although this book was written before Cutting for Stone, chronologically, it takes place after he finishes medical school and his residencies. It details his journey into the world of AIDS as an Infectious Disease Specialist just as the AIDS epidemic was beginning. I can only say that we should all be lucky enough to have a physician like Dr. Verghese. The story was inspiring and intiquing. Very definitely a good read!

Wendy Catalano
Just One Night: The Stranger by Kyra Davis

What started out to be Just One Night of freedom turned into a tangled web of lust, passion and hauntingly unforgettable memories for Kasie, after meeting Mr. Dade. This story makes Kasie question the plans she has laid out for her future after discovering her innermost desire for this stranger and the passion he unleashes in her. "Just One Night: The Stranger" ends with an incredible cliffhanger and I can hardly wait to get my hands on the next book in this series called "Just One Night:Exposed".

Marsha
Notorious Nineteen by Janet Evanovich

Stephanie Plum, New Jersey Bounty Hunter, is at it again with the help of her cohort,Lulu, ex ho. Together the cause mayhem. I am not sure where the number 19 comes in. It could be the nineteenth car she has had bombed or the 19th body she finds in this book. She is trying to find a skip trace who absconded with the funds from a retirement home and this leads to bodies disappearing from a hospital and this leads to the same old problems. This book will cause you to laugh out loud, then be repulsed by dead bodies, then wonder whether Ranger of Morelli will win her heart today. What fun!

Barbara West
When We Were Strangers by Pamela Schoenewaldt

One of those books that you just want to read from start to finish in one sitting. You can't wait to see what will happen to the main character next.

Tanya
Crossroads by WM. Paul Young

If you enjoyed The Shack you will like this books as well.

Tanya
The Distant Hours by Kate Morton

I love this author. She has great character development and good plots as well.

Tanya
The Long Way Home by Mariah Stewart

This is the 6th in a series. I haven't read the others but I will. The book was great and I read it in a day.

Tanya
A Dog Named Boo by Lisa Edwards

If you like dogs you will enjoy this book. I learned a lot about what goes into picking a dog to help people with disabilities.

Tanya
Cold Light by Jenn Ashworth

Interesting book about friendship and secrets.

Aletheia Allen
Breathe by Sarah Crossan

Breathe is yet another dystopian, not-too-distant future, young adult novel about the dangers of taking something essential for granted, and, of course, some romance. But don't get discouraged. It was a great take on the "same-old." In this instance, the essential element that we've taken for granted is, you guessed it, air. We've cut down all the trees, and now we must subsist on manufactured air in a bubble. The bubble is, of course, tightly managed by the elite, and there is, of course, a resistance. But the story was very well told, the characters were vivid and believable (plus flawed! but not too flawed ;)), and the plot moves along at the perfect pace. I read the book quickly, and I was very satisfied when I turned the last page.

tawnya zorn
Beautiful Ruins by Jess Walter

A wonderful book that spans decades and intertwines several stories. The characters are unforgettable. Truly a great read.

WALTER KRETZMANN
The Gift of Rain by Tan Twan Eng

This is a powerful and compelling first novel. Starting in 1939 on Penang Island, the novel tells the story of Philip Hutton and his friendship with Hayato Endo. As war engulfs much of Asia and spills into Malaya, tensions between families and within families overwhelm both the past and the present. While the characters are fictional, the historical setting is not. The story moves through the events of the war and, with the visit of Michiko, a friend of Hayato Endo, some 50 years later we are able to fill in many of the gaps between the past and the present. This is a story of betrayal, cruelty, courage and love. Above all, it is a reminder that first impressions are not always complete or accurate.

Doreen Essig
Falling Together by Marisa de los Santos

I'm about half way through and enjoying it the more I read. I needed to find out where Cat IS! And how Pen and Will find her.

Joyce
Kashmir Shawl by Rosie Thomas

I just finished reading the Kashmir Shawl and absolutely enjoyed it. It was one of those books that you just want to keep reading and reading, but then you know it will end too soon! If you've ever wanted to join an ancestry search site, you will most definitely love this book. After her father passes, Mair discovers a beautifully woven shawl that she learns belonged to her missionary grandmother. Mair travels across the world to trace the shawl's origin. How could her grandmother have owned something so uniquely extravagant? What a wondferul tale of discovery.

Linda A Shell
I'm Over All That by Shirley MacLaine

I have always loved Shirley MacLaine as an actress and an author. She is straight forward and has never minced with words. I really enjoyed this memoir of her life and most importantly where she is now. She has inspired me to look at my life and do the things that make me happy and never worry about what other people think. She has many interesting stories to tell about her lovers and the world leaders that she has met and spent time with. Wow, what a life!!

Sean Penrose
Colorado Kid by Stephen King

Stephen King makes a bold statement in this book’s afterward. He claims that readers will either love this or hate it. While I didn’t hate it, King is capable of so much more. The reasons he gives for loving/hating it didn’t apply to me though. Basically we’re given an odd mystery and the answers are hard to come by. I think the book would’ve been better served with more extended flashbacks to the time of the original mystery. Overall, it was too quick and mundane for me.

Lynn H
Empty Arms by Erika Liodice

Although at times heart-wrenching, this was a really enjoyable story. There were a couple coincidences that seemed a little farfetched and it was pretty easy to guess how the story was going to end, but overall a good book. The book kept a good pace so there weren’t any “slow parts” and I enjoyed almost all the characters, even the ones who weren’t very likable. I definitely recommend this book.

Veronica Earley
Ella Minnow Pea by Mark Dunn

I find this novel to be a very difficult read. I would not recommend it.

Phyllis Gronewold
The Dog Stars by Peter Heller

Once I started reading The Dog Stars, I could not stop. Peter Heller weaves the story so well, I felt I was a part of Hig's life. With the timely premise of the eradication of most life by a flu epidemic, the day to day life of Hig becomes a real possibility - the fight for survival, the search for communication with others, the good and the bad of humanity. The book is a beautiful, sad look at what might happen sometime in the near future.

Drennan Spitzer
The Uninvited Guests by Sadie Jones

In The Uninvited Guests, Sadie Jones provides a lyrical feast for her readers. Set in Edwardian England, Jones tells the story of a birthday party in a country home, a party that is interrupted by group of refugees from a railway accident. Not only is the party derailed, but the lives of the family and party guests take a number of unexpected turns as they must tend to the displaced passengers. Jones's novel feels like a hybrid of lyric poetry, the Gothic novel, and the novel of manners.

Louise
Gone for Good by Harlan Coben

I'm gradually making my way through Harlan Coben's books. Love his writing, but I had a hard time sticking with this book ... had a great plot, just seemed to take so long unfolding :) The main character, Will, has had some very hard losses in his life. Could they, somehow, be connected? And what about his older brother who has been assumed dead for eleven years?

Shiela Beresford
Home Front by Kristen Hannah

I was one of the fortunate people to win copies of the book for my book club. This is a featured title for our February meeting which is next week. I can not wait to share my feelings for with the others and to hear their views. What a heart wrenching, captivating book this was to read. I was so engrossed in this timely subject matter that time flew by quickly. The vulnerability of Jolene, the not a clue Michael, typical preteen Betsy, and innocent Lulu made for a emotional roller coaster ride. I highly recommend this book with a box of Kleenex by your side!

Dre Grecco
Dark Places by Gillian Flynn

Since there has been so much hype about Gilliam Flynn lately, I was a bit reluctant to pick up one of her books. I don't know why that is, but there you go. I love the way this book was told from different characters' POV, & alternating the time also. So you basically follow 2 stories in 1. I am now looking forward to reading the author's other books. Maybe people who review books really do know what they are talking about. :)

Amy Cramer
The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh

I haven't completed it yet, but so far I love it! The story structure of jumping from past to present really pulls me in and allows readers to get to know Victoria slowly...which I think is how she would want it. I also love the author's writing style; word choice, flower descriptions, and characterization -all remind me of reading poetry!

rosie rosum
The Shadow Queen by Rebecca Dean

This novel is about Wallis Warfield Spencer Simpson's young life up to the 1930's, when she met the Prince of Wales (the heart throb of his day) who became King upon the death of his father, and abdicated the throne for the woman he loved. I've heard many stories/rumors and found myself researching her upon completion of the book. She was a fascinating, strong and determined woman whose life was full of obstacles in an era of propriety and standards. She tried to maintain her sense of balance throughout her emotional roller coaster. The author weaved fact and fiction that kept you drawn, even though you knew the ending.

Tina Klingemann
Moloka'i by Alan Brennert

A rich novel set in Hawaii. the story opens in 1891 before Hawaii is ripped away from its monarchy by greeding white plantation owners. A young innocent little Hawaiian girl's life is foever changed. Little Rachel has two sores on her legs. One day this is discovered at school and the "leprosy" posse comes and takes Rachel away from her family. She ends up at the Leper colony on the island of Moloka'i. Rachel beats all the odds. The novel ends in 1970. Many surprising twists and turns along with accurate historical facts about Leprosy and Hawaii make this a real page turner. I read this book several years ago and recommended it to my book club. We are reading it for our February selection. It is better the second read through.

Wendy Catalano
Lord Stillwell's Excellent Engagements by Victoria Alexander

A enchanting novella that tells the story of Winfield Elliott and his search for a bride. He is engaged 3 times and each time is convinced he has found the perfect woman. Each engagement ends leaving me feeling very sad for Win yet his wonderful sense of humor helps to fluff off his sadness and he carries on. Will he find love? Will he find the perfect woman for him? Demanding a book of his own, Lord Stillwell shows up in Victoria Alexander's study which leads to her next novel, "The Importance of Being Wicked", Win's story. I can hardly wait to read it.

Marsha
Heading Out to Wonderful by Robert Goolrick

This lovely story set shortly after WWII is set is a very small town in Virginia. A young man arrives in town with a set of knives and a yearning to earn his way as a butcher. The lovely language and description with delight you. The novel has it all--yearning for a better live, desire, ambition, total obsession, love and so much more. It is a real gem.

Kylie
Big City Eyes by Delia Ephron

Chosen for a book club discussion, so I read it again. Feel the same as I did when I read it the first time. It's not the page-turner that the cover touts, but it's okay.

Gina Mou
Beautiful Disaster by Jamie McGuire

This is a great book! Sure to live up to all the hype everyone has heard, you will NOT be able to put this book down. It is a love story, but with a bad boy/good girl with troubled pasts. You might love the characters, hate the characters, and then love them again. Do be forewarned that this contains rude/explicit language, that may be offensive to some readers. With that being said, I personally was not offended and have recommended this book so many times in the past month. It is a GREAT read!! And "Walking Disaster" (book 2) comes out in April. I cannot wait for this release!

Linda Johnsona
The Boy Who Looked Like Lincoln by Mike Reiss

David Catrow was the political cartoonist for the paper I used to write for. I've always admired him and his work, both as a political cartoonist and as an illustrator for children's books. This came across the desk at work and I had to stop and read it immediately. It does not disappoint. Although the title really tells the story, the illustrations are the highlight of the book - even with the unforseen ending. Recapture your second or third childhood and pick this up for a good chuckle.

emily l
The Singing Creek Where the Willows Grow: The Mystical Nature Diary of Opal Whiteley by Opal Whiteley

I absolutely loved The Nature Diary of Opal Whiteley. It is transcendant and beautiful.

Sandra Furlotte
A Walk in the Woods by Bill Bryson

This a laugh out loud book. All my romantic notions of what it would be like to walk the Appalachian Trail have been dashed.

deanna babyak
Another Piece of My Heart by Jane Green

Just Started book so I can't really give a real review, however from author's past books, this one should be a winner.

Lori
Finding Nouf by Zoe Ferraris

I thought this book was a fascinating look at life in Saudi Arabia as well as a very good mystery about a girl's disappearance and death. It was interesting to learn about the restrictive life of both men and women in the Saudi society, and even the extreme weather was interesting to me.

Margaret Harada Mori
The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh

fascinating story with sympathetic characters. Great locales for the book & the descriptions richly describe the locations. Through adversity, abandonment, & poverty, the protagonist finds ways to adjust & then succeed. We all felt we could easily see it as a movie.

WALTER KRETZMANN
Love Bomb by Lisa Zeidner

Starting with a terrific, offbeat premise worthy of Christopher Moore -- the amusing interruption of a home wedding by a bridal gown-dressed, fully armed woman -- the novel devolves into a series of lengthy backgrounders on several of the guests and the hostage taker herself. The quick pace of the setup is so much fun and full of social satire promise, it's really disappointing to watch the book slow to a crawl that never gets back up to speed. Though sprinkled with some genuinely witty and insightful passages, overall "Love Bomb" is a dud.

Fran Whelan
Girl with Skirt of Stars by Jennifer Kitchell

Mystery novel with Navajo culture and political sidelines brought forward by a Navajo lawyer. Excellent

Roe Postilio
The Promise of Stardust by Priscile Sibley

After reading so much about this upcoming book. I ordered it for my e-reader the day it became available. I have not been able to stop reading it since I opened the first page. Any hype you have heard about this book is not enough. What a wonderful story. I consider myself the number one fan of Jodi Picoult. If you enjoy her writing you will LOVE this book. An easy read that tells an important story about love, commitment and ethics. This first time author has now permanently made me her fan. Cant wait to hear what she has in store for us next. Run to your bookstore or order for your e-reader. You wont be sorry.

Terra Curtin
Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers

In so many ways we forget about simple love, simple things and life before us; history which made us possible. This book is a shedding book of love and hope and the desire for one man to follow God's path, however, it keeps us thinking that "I've been here, I've done that" This book was a gift to me from an angel - it has changed me forever, it will be the book I "pay it forward" with to all that need a classic story of magnificent love, a desire to keep trying in life and in love. It has showed me, that even those who are going through troubled times, God is watching and protecting and loving us each step of the way.

Rosemary DeMarois
Garden Spells by Sarah Addison Allen

This is the book our book club, The Wesley Readers, is reading for our February meeting. The story takes place in a small southern town. It is the story of an enchanted apple tree and the curious Waverly family who tend it.

Judy Stein
The Devotion of Suspect X by Keigo Higashino

Translated from the Japanese. Features a murder mystery (we know who did it, police think they do, but...) This book is more than a police procedural - it's a battle of wits between two brilliant scholars and a touching story of unrequited love. What would you do, how far would you go in the name of devotion. A simply-told story that will linger in your thoughts.

Deanne Donica
The Things We Do or Love by Kristin Hannah

Love Kristin Hannah, thanks for giving me the idea to try her books.

Renee Lynch
Indiscretion by Charles Dubow

Loved it! Reads like Gatsby and will leave you wishing for more!

WALTER KRETZMANN
Man in the Blue Moon by Michael Morris

This book was a huge surprise to me. it kept my attention all the way through. It allowed for some interesting, thought-provoking feelings about faith. These characters were WONDERFUL and so believable. The investigation into this time and place, etc. was done beautifully. It made you really believe in good, evil, mysteries of religion and God's faithfulness.

Kaecey McCormick
Another Piece of My Heart by Jane Green

While the premise of this book was interesting, I struggled with the voices of the characters and the rather predictable outcome. In addition, in several places it felt like too many issues or different directions were approached - it could have been a better book had the author narrowed the focus and kept the narration simpler.

Barbara Kirch
Light Between Oceans by M L Stedmen

This was an excellent book and stimulated a very lively discussion in 2 of my reading groups (I had recommended it to both groups). It was especially meaningful to me, because I had the opportunity to travel extensively in Australia, and had visited the area described in the book.

Amy Nash
Destiny of the Republic by Candice Millard

How much do you know about President James Garfield? Probably as much as our book group members did ... until we each zoomed through Ms. Millard's excellent novel about his unlikely rise to the presidency. When compared with current presidential inaugurations, access to presidents, and the need for security, you'll cringe at what actually occurred. When you're done, you'll be very glad your doctor believes in Purell!

Laura Jones
11/22/63 by Stephen King

Sucks you in right away.

Michelle Archer
The Aviator's Wife by Melanie Benjamin

An interesting look at the Lindbergh marriage from Ann Lindbergh's point of view. This book kept me reading until the very end. Not only were some lesser known areas of Charles Lindbergh's life explored but Ann Lindbergh was revealed as a fascinating person in her own right. This book also provides reflection on the effects of fame on the individual and how history treats our heroes.

Michelle Archer
The Secret Keeper by Kate Morton

In a novel that switches between modern day and WWII London, the long-kept secrets of a family are revealed. Kate Morton does a wonderful job with her characters in this book and provides a splendid surprise ending. I didn't see it coming even though the clues were there. I thought this one was terrific!

Irene landenberger
Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh

Wonderful book with much to reflect on. Informative re the foster care system.

Linda Carmichael
Mrs. Lincoln's Dressmaker by Jennifer Chiaverini

Even our non-fiction readers enjoyed this book.

Sally Lincoln
Mansfield Park by Jane Austen

After enjoying a few modern books I find myself turning back to the classics. It was not a simple time for females in any way. I love the clear, clean thoughts the gut feelings and sensibilities of the strong female characters in Austen's books. In fact all the characters jump out of the page to give you a clear image of their looks as well as worth. I think any of the Austen classics would be an excellent inclusion for the young females of today to read. I'm pretty sure they would then become something they would enjoy returning to again and again, as so many others have done before them.

Amy Vitello
Kitchen House by Kathleen Grissom

Good for reluctant readers. Lots of action. Like an African-American soap opera.

Diane Annunziato
Dead Witch Walking by Kim Harrison

Fantastic urban fiction! Harrison's world building and character development are spot on in the first of "the Hollows" series. Rachel Morgan has always been a little different. She is a practicing earth witch and a runner for the Inderlander Service. Emergent events thrust her onto a new path where her life is in constant danger, and her two best friends are a pixie named Jenks and a living vampire with a pedigree, named Ivy. Throw in the old church they call home and a few demons, and you're all set for night in front of the fire, immersed in another reality.

Allison Olson
The GIrl on the Cliff by Lucinda Riley

I love how this story moves seamlessly between the past and the present. The characters are well drawn and believable. The story is romantic but still challenging. Readers of Kate Morton's books will enjoy this and Riley's other novel, "The Orchid House".

Margie Hicks
Age of Miracles by Karen Thompson Walker

A coming of age story that takes place during a time when people are trying to determine how to live normal lives under extremely abnormal conditions. The extraordinary circumstances are creating uncertainty on every level. I have only just begun this book, but find myself thinking about it and am anxious to pick it up and continue reading. I just may finish it today!

Melanie S.
The Last Runaway by Tracy Chevalier

An easy read and engaging story set in rural Ohio at the time when the Underground Railroad was smuggling slaves up from the south to the north. I loved Girl with a Pearl Earring and really liked The Virgin Blue, but I don't feel that this book was up to par with other books I have read from this author. It was a quick, light read, and as is usually the case with historical fiction, I did learn something about that period of time and about the history of Oberlin, Ohio. Not bad, not great.

Becky C.
The Secret in Their Eyes by Eduardo Sacheri

The Secret in Their Eyes is the story of a retired Argentinian clerk of courts / detective. In his retirement, he writes a story of one of the cases he has worked on in the past. We learn what has happened, how he has approached the case (with some questionable legal actions), and how his novel ends.

Lois Lilling
Saving CeeCee Honeycutt by Beth Hoffman

One of my favorites. Easy reading with such tenderness. She goes to live with some wonderful relatives and learns what it means to be a "human being".

Donna K
The Secret Keeper by Kate Morton

Another great story told in the most beautiful language. It has everything, love triangle, murder and mystery. I loved it!

Becky Haase
The 15th Star by Lisa Grace

The story is interesting and the plot well thought out. The characters are engaging. Unfortunately the author needs an editor. The grammar switches from present tense to past tense and back again with no regard for good writing among other problems. Some of the situations are unlikely, but for a quick read with an interesting and little known historical event this is a good read.

Donna Shaw
Without Pity by Ann Rule

Ann tells about the 12 most dangerous killers from her true case files. The title Without Pity is a fitting title.

Bonnie Gluhanich
The Tin Horse by Janice Steinberg

Beautifully written novel about family with a twist at the end that I didn't see coming. If you like family sagas, novels about immigrants at the early part of the 20th century, the Jewish experience in America, siblings, or mysteries, then this is the novel for you.

Betty Taylor
The Aleppo Codex by Matti Friedman

The Aleppo Codex was a tenth-century annotated bible protected from centuries in Aleppo, Syria, but after a fire in the synagogue there it is secreted away to Israel. Matti Friedman did a lot of research to determine how it got to Israel and what happened to the missing pages of this sacred document.

Diane Pollock
Inheritance by Christopher Paolini

Riveting conclusion to a great first "trilogy."

kathy weber
A Plain and Simple Heart by Lori Copeland and Virginia Smith

I'm enjoying the book so far but I'm only into the third chapter. As much as I read so far I would recommend it.

Claire Dressman
The Tin Horse by Janice Steinberg

This is a book that has everything; mystery, family dynamics, coming-of-age, and beautiful writing. An 85-year-old woman looks back on her life growing up in the 1930's as she tries one last time to find her twin sister who ran away when they were eighteen.

Jaime Hypes
The Elementals by Francesca Lia Block

Block makes a very smooth and easy transition into adult fiction in this heart wrenching and cerebral novel. The tension and sadness is palpable throughout, and the slight nod to mysticism supplies such an intense atmosphere that it is nearly impossible to put down once started. Although at times it is somewhat difficult to figure out what exactly is really happening, it all makes sense in the end. And, really, that is what college years are like at times in real life. Things seem to come into perspective only when looking back, and Block captures the beauty and fragility of one young woman's journey to find what happened to her best friend who disappeared. Along the way, she discovers the truth about herself as well.

Marian Collins
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn

There are so many twists and turns in this book that I was hooked until the end.

Anne-Marie Chandler
A Place in the Country by Elizabeth Adler

A love story of friendship, of mother-daughter relationship and a woman finding new love after a bitter divorce. Intrigue abounds from husband's business life and danger is lurking. GREAT book.

Anne-Marie Chandler
The Saturday Caller by Georges Simenon

A French detective has a man come by the "precinct," and then one night stops at his apartment to confess that he wants to kill his wife and her lover who have taken over the apartment and his business. The detective, Inspector Maigret, tells him to call every day. Then he disappears while his wife and lover are still alive and Maigret must tell his superior. It's great so far and can't wait to find out what has happened. Written in the 60's but still good.

Barbara Boik
Beautiful Ruins by Jess Walter

A great read, captures your attention and you won't want to put it down!

Eileen Dandashi
Heart of a Warrior by Johanna Lindsey

I have read only Regency novels from Johanna Lindsey, so this one was a surprise to me. It speaks truths throughout the book which we as a world should embrace. It's about a king from another world who decides he wants to rule Earth. He is chased into a small town by other 'aliens' to keep him from his purpose. In the middle of all that is a young fiercely independent American woman who falls in love with one of the warriors searching for the king. Throughout the book, she dreams up all answers to the unbelievable things she is witnessing, not accepting the fact that these people are aliens. It's a cute story.

Allisson Hoskins
Nothing Daunted by Dorothy Wickenden

Written by a granddaughter this is an interesting saga of two New York society girls who leave their "boring" comfortable lives behind and travel to the mountains of Colorado to teach in a one room schoolhouse. It brings to mind my brave grandmothers and great aunts who were also pioneers in the west almost 100 years ago.

Betty Fitzgerald
A Good American by Alex George

A detailed family saga beginning with lovers who flee to America when her family disapproves of the relationship. Their story spans 3 generations and is enhanced by the diverse group of characters along the way. It's well written (and better than I expected from the blurbs on the cover.

Lori Van Buskirk
Into the Darkest Corner by Elizabeth Haynes

I couldn't put this book down and it kept me up reading when I should have been sleeping! Into the Darkest Corner is very intense and touches on subjects that are not for the faint of heart. This books gives some insight to OCD and PTSD and how some people are dealing with their every day lives with these issues! So glad I found this book and author! Can't wait for more by her!!

Jayme
Looking For Alaska by John Green

I read *Looking for Alaska* because I had read *The Fault in Our Stars* last year which I really enjoyed. I didn’t like Looking for Alaska as much as The Fault in Our Stars. In *The Fault in Our Stars* I liked the characters and cared about them. *In Looking for Alaska* I only liked Miles, our protagonist, and his quirky hobby of discovering “the last words” of famous dead people. The rest of the characters blah… I think I am over, or too old to find redeeming, smart-ass teenagers who are already bored with life. I will give John Green another try, but it will have to be a WOW book.

Jean L
The Book of the Dead by Douglas Preston & Lincoln Child

This is the last of the Agent Pendergast trilogy but not the last of the series. He works while in prison to clear his name of the charges which his brother Diogenes set up against him.

Jean L
The Surgeon by Tess Gerritsen

This is a very intense book. It is a very good page turner as female surgeon tries to remember just what happened two years ago when she was raped. It is the first of the series featuring Rizzoli who feels like the male cops dismiss her as a cop.

Sandy Daily
Velva Jean Learns to Fly by Jennifer Niven

I learned about the group of WASP women pilots during WWII. Love her writing style and characters.

Kathryn Evans
A Week in Winter by Maeve Binchy

Thank you for this contest.

Margaret Herring
Beautiful Ruins by Jess Walter

Interesting story that spans 50 years and several countries. I'm not halfway through it yet but so far the characters are intriguing. Can't wait to see where it goes!

Connie Edwards
Lowcountry Bribe by C. Hope Clark

I've had this book since December, but have just started to read it. Was a little concerned about rating it after only a couple of chapters, but I already have a good sense of the protagonist - something you might not get until the end of other books - so 4 stars feels right at this stage. Carolina Slade, in a dead-end marriage, with two kids, works in a government job providing loans to farmers. One of those farmers tries to bribe her. She calls in the investigators (one of whom she finds attractive). They may have an agenda of their own, however, and now the fun begins!

Kay Norman
Crooked Letter, Crooked Letter by Tom Franklin

Loved this book when I read it last year and am now re-reading it for book club and love it again. The characters are well developed and the plot kept me guessing.

Sharon Long
Mr. Churchill's Secretary by Susan Elia MacNeal

This is a great book!! Some history about Winston Churchill, etc. but also a mystery and intrigue. Great characters and good storyline, love her writing as well. This is her first book, the second in the series is out and the 3rd will be out in March 2013. Maggie Hope, is the secretary, and the main character and is the sleuth if you will. I highly recommend this book and series.

Paula Barclay
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn

Written as diary entries by each of the main characters made for interesting reading. The reader is able to really understand the characters, scary as ONE may be. Twists and turns keep it a page turner.

Francisca E B
A Raisin in the Sun by Lorraine Hansberry

I will start by saying that I don’t generally enjoy reading plays – I prefer to see them performed – but this play, is extraordinary. I highly recommend reading it if a live theater performance isn’t available. First produced on Broadway in 1959, the drama concerns the lives of an African American family living in an apartment on Chicago’s Southside, sometime between WWII and the mid-1950s. The play is a product of its time, but has some themes that still ring true today. The themes of conflicting dreams and finding one’s moral compass are universal. As the characters traverse the path from despair to triumph (and the many points in between), they touch my own soul, causing me to examine my own dreams – both realized and deferred.

Sharon Elliott-Fox
Coming of the Storm by W. Michael and Kathleen O'Neal Gear

Lots of gore, but some very interesting concepts about how the first Americans lived in the Florida peninsula. I found it interesting to read about the differences in the various tribes and some of the mores of each of the separate cultures. Shuddered at the descriptions of the attitude and actions of de Soto and his soldiers.

Sharon Elliott-Fox
The Forgotten God by Francis Chan

Conservative exposition on the Holy Spirit. Fairly well written in that I see no typographical or grammatical errors but feel that many of the ideas the author presents are not liberating but confining.

Janet Nydegger
Truth in Advertising by John Kenney

This is the story of Finbar Dolan, an advertising executive. In a humorous way the book describes the high powered world of advertising. But the book is really about Fin, his family, growing older and putting a difficult childhood behind him. You'll laugh, you'll cry (really). If you like Nick Hornby or Jonathan Tropper, you will like this book.

Linda
Another Piece of My Heart by Jane Green

This story is about Andi, a woman in her late thirties who has never been married. She meets the man of her dreams, Ethan, who is a divorced father with two daughters. The book centers on the relationships that take place in this newly formed arrangement, and how each "pair" affects the other people around them. This book leads to some very interesting discussions pertaining to our relationships today and how we deal with them.

Nedra Shultz
Mrs. Kennedy and Me by Clint Hill

Very interesting read. Did not know secret service made such low salary and had so little time for their own families.

Tessa BC
My Name is Mary Sutter by Robin Oliveira

3.5 Stars - This is a work of historical fiction set during the American Civil War, centering on Mary Sutter, a midwife, who is determined to become a surgeon. I really enjoyed this book and was drawn in immediately. I particularly appreciated the information Oliveira included about the very poor state of medical care, and how what was learned by Army surgeons on the battlefield helped to change the practice of medicine. The writing was vivid, and the characters have to deal with various weaknesses and emotions. Kimberly Farr did an excellent job of reading the audio book.

Mamie Eng
Maine by J. Courtney Sullivan

Good discussion book for the reading group - easy to identify with characters and to like/dislike a particular person.

Tanya
Something About Sophie by Mary Kay McComas

This is a great book. It includes making amends for past deeds as well as forgiveness.

Kerri Nelson
Fragile by Lisa Unger

The book starts with an incredible teaser that entices you to skip to the end and see what happened. Alas, you know you must devour each and every page and absorb the thrilling plot to reach the unexpected conclusion. I enjoyed the characters (particularly the pest control man--seriously) and just learned that this was the first book in Unger's Hollows series. I'm definitely coming back for more.

Kit Murphy
The Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman

I just started it, so I cannot give it a full 5 stars yet.....but I am enjoying the story.

Sharron
The Lifeboat by Charlotte Rogan

Perspective from inside a lifeboat as told by a newly married, widowed woman.

Jane McCown
Are You Happy Now? by Richard Babcock

I bought this book as one of my Kindle Deals of the Day. Are You Happy Now has turned out to be one of the better books I have read lately. It gives an inside look at the world of book publishing. The author reminds me of Jonathan Tropper with his humorous, but insightful, style.

Sharron
The Dressmaker by Kate Alcott

Real life designer Lady Duff Gordon undergoes scrutiny for being in a lifeboat from Titanic with crew members and only 12 in a boat that could hold 60--all true. Story actually focuses on a young fictionalized girl who comes on board last minute to serve as Lady Duff's maid. The girl wants to be a designer and work under Lady Duff in New York. Parts were a real push to believe. Here is a naive poor girl who is suddenly working in a world famous design house, has 2 men pursuing her--one a wealthy older gentlemen twice divorced, the other an officer from the Titanic. All this in the span of 2 weeks!

Janis Apgar
The Winter Palace: A Novel by Eva Stachniak

Story of Catherine the Great's rise to power through the eyes of smart & watchful servant, Barbara. She becomes the confidant of Catherine early on when she is brought to the palace as Sophie to marry the Empress's nephew. About halfway through now - love it so far! It is well written. The characters are developed well. And I am really enjoying the intrigue of the "behind the scenes" of this time.

Linda Hitchcock
Speaking From Among the Bones by Alan Bradley

The precocious but never cloying genius 11 year-old Flavia de Luce has never shone brighter nor brewed up more deadly poisons as she solves a murder in an ancient tomb. Gladys, her sturdy bicycle, reliably transports this intrepid sleuth on her midnight rambles in crime solving. The 500th anniversary of Saint Tancred's death reveals the death of the church organist. Flavia explores the church and graveyards, popping up in the most unexpected places as she detects. The supporting cast including her distracted father, his batman Dogger, and long-suffering older sisters ensure this fine author's books are ever a "pre-order" and "must read".

Angela Figueroa
Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl

Great story that keeps you reading, can't wait to see the movie!

Linda Johnson
Songs of the Humpback Whale by Jodi Picoult

This book is Picoult's first and told in five voices. A married couple (individually), their daughter, the wife's brother and the brother's employer. It took quite a while into the book to understand the "problem" confronting the people. The fifth voice doesn't enter the conversation until about 2/3 of the book is done. The story line strayed chronology. Full of angst. I'm not sure the problems were confronted or just placated or buried.

Monica Jordan
Dark Places by Gillian Flynn

So far, it is every bit as engaging as Gone, Girl. It is very suspenseful. It flips back and forth between present day and the past and between characters. Each chapter leaves you wanting more!

Sherrie English
Home Front by Kirstin Hannah

This story has so much to relate to, not all of it unless you've served in a branch of the United States military forces, but everything surrounding it. Books don't always bring me to tears, unlike a movie it's easy to close the book and regain composure, but I kept reading with teary eyes. Many emotions as a daughter, wife, mother, and especially a friend.

Rhoda MacMaster
Sleepwalker by Wendy Corsi Staub

Second book in the series. Ten years after the catastrophe, a great fallen city has risen again. Ten years after, a horror begins anew . . . or never truly ended. The nightmare of 9/11 is a distant but still painful memory for Allison Taylor MacKenna—now married to Mack and living in a quiet Westchester suburb. She has moved on with her life ten years after barely escaping death at the hands of New York’s Nightwatcher serial killer. The monster is dead, having recently committed suicide in his prison cell, but something is terribly wrong. Mack has started sleepwalking, with no recollection of where his nighttime excursions are taking him.

Carol Ann Story
The Good House by Anne Leary

Great read. Terrific character development. Central character Hildy Good is well-drawn. She's vulnerable, flawed and funny. Good plot that moves right along with some thriller/suspense in the last few chapters that come as a pleasant surprise. Can't wait for Leary's next one.

Janeene Johnston
Home Front by Kristin Hannah

My Columbia book club won this from Good Reads - Love the site and glad we were able to get this one to review. 3.5 Stars - Good character development with a storyline that is at the forefront of daily life for so many - the veterans returning home. Author had way of making it easy to feel empathy for all the main characters, while also giving each of them their own voice. Will be interested to see how the discussion goes this Saturday at book club.

Linda Reck
The Last Runaway by Tracy Chevalier

The main character, Honor Bright Haymaker, makes the book come alive. She is both a Quaker and a helper of runaway slaves. Honor has hard choices to make. I enjoyed this book a lot, it weaves historical events and actual events into a compelling narative. The ordinary day-to-day narrative comes alive in The Last Runaway.

Rita
Suspect by Robert Crais

An average police procedural is raised to above-average interest by the inclusion of a memorable German Shepherd in a story that dog lovers will enjoy. Maggie, a former Marine canine who worked alongside troops in Iraq, is severely injured and sent home. When she partners up with an also-injured cop who is stubbornly trying to track down the men who wounded him and murdered his partner, they form a tight bond that places both of them in danger. I have not read the author's detective series yet, but this stand-alone made me care enough to hope for a sequel.

Bev Uebel
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn

This book lives up to its promise of a "psychological" thriller - very cleverly written. I give it four stars for that reason. I was disappointed in the ending - I expected it to be much more climactic.

Arin Burton
Blackberry Winter by Sarah Jio

My women's book club chose this book for February, and it was not a disappointment! From the first chapter the story grabbed me and I couldn't put it down until the book ended. It has a love story, and a little bit of mystery. Have tissues ready at the end too! Can't wait to read more by this author.

Barbara Simon
The Nightmare by Lars Kepler

Easy to read, short chapters, and lots of action. A rather high body count though. Second book in the series. Protag Joona seems a bit too good to be true, very intuitive, always right in his hunches, but very likable.

Kathy Iwasaka
And When She Was Good by Laura Lippman

I am thoroughly enjoying this novel. Not only am I hooked on the storyline, but am also intrigued by the moral (or immoral) bent of its characters.

Ivy Pittman
Standing In Another Man's Grave by Ian Rankin

Not exactly a sitting-on-the-edge-of-my-chair thriller, but interesting enough. Several girls have been missing from the outskirts of Scotland. Remus seems to be the only ex-cop who is willing to go the extra miles (literally) to solve the case. The more people who are questioned the more interesting the plot becomes as potential suspects seem to be closer than anticipated.

Terri Bray
Into The Dark by Alison Gaylin

A sequel to And She Was this book picks up from the last book and brings you into the world of Brenna Spector who, after a traumatic incident from her childhood, left her with perfect memory, which has been a gift and a curse. It's a great suspense read. I was really pulling for her to be able to solve the mystery surrounding her sister's disapperance.

Sandi Ward
The Aviator's Wife by Melanie Benjamin

Most people are aware of Charles Lindbergh and the "Lindberg baby" kidnapping, but this book reports it from Charles' wife, Anne Morrow Lindbergh, bringing a new perspective and real emotion to the story. The hardships and triumps of both Lindbergh's are outlined well and this is such a beautiful mix between fiction and historical fact that you must keep reminding yourself that this is not an autobiography from Anne Lindberg. Although I am not one to pick up many historical based novels, I have found The Aviator's Wife and The Autobiography of Mrs. Tom Thumb, both by Melanie Benjamin to be exceptionally good reading.

Linda Baker
An Invisible Thread by Laura Schroff

What a feel good book! Human kindness is still among us today as revealed in this true story. Put down what you are reading, and start this ASAP! You'll thank me.

Patricia Revzin
The Aviator's Wife by Melanie Benjamin

I have read books about the daring exploits of Charles Lindberg, the kidnapping and devastating loss of his firstborn, and his secret other families. I also read Anne Morrow Lindberg's book, A Gift from the Sea. But I gained my first real insight of what Anne's life was like when I read The Aviator's Wife by Melanie Benjamin. Although it is historical fiction, this book is told from Anne's viewpoint--her life before she met Charles, the highs and lows of their marriage, and her indomitable spirit during and after each crisis. The author depicts a vivid and vulnerable portrait behind the facade and persona Anne presented to the public Charles called her his "crew," but she gradually came to realize that she was really his "co-pilot."

Dani Berke
The Baker's Daughter by Sarah McCoy

I loved this book. This book tells the story about the Holocaust from the German non-jewish point of view. It is very interesting and sad.

Dani Berke
Bone River by Megan Chance

This book is a wonderful book about family and survival in the 1800's. It has a lot of information about American Indians and their customs.

Ellie Lewis
The Time In Between by Maria Duenas

Beautifully written historical novel with memorable characters and locale.

Anne Berger
The Winter Rose by Jennifer Donnelly

An unforgettable family saga that is captivating and emotional.

Fran O
Against Medical Advice by Hal Friedman with James Patterson

A beautiful tribute from a Dad to his son. Corey suffered from OCD and Tourettes syndrome from the time he was almost 5 years old. This Dad shares the agonizing attempt to navigate the medical/mental health system, a system where sometimes medication exacerbates rather than cures the problem. It also accounts for his son's self medication with alcohol and remarkable strength and courage on his road back to health. This was an insightful story that illustrates the devastating effects of mental illness in children.

Nancy Coughlin
Krewe of Hunter Series by Heather Graham

This is an older series that I have only recently discovered and am making my way through the series very quickly. Enjoy reading books that cause the reader to "suspend belief" and go with the flow. The elite teams that Adam Harrison has put together to investigate unnatural events are intriguing. An earlier series was based on his intial development and this series carries it farther along, to other parts of the U.S. Graham's research into various areas is very interesting. Just finished two books centered around Egyptology and mummy curses and how man can take advantage of a curse and try to improve his own gain and greed. She does a very good job of looking at evil and how it can be manipulated for one's own gain and desire.

Patricia Hunter
A Breath of Snow and Ashes by Diana Gabaldon

Enjoying it just as much as the others!

Mary Vernau
Trapeze by Simon Mawer

Riveting Historical novel set takes the reader into the lives of female spies and the importance of the espionage role they played during WWII.

Rochelle Stempler
Suspect by Robert Crais

Love Robert Crais's Elvis Cole series. This stand alone was great. He knows how to write mysteries with compassion.

Leslie
The School of Essential Ingredients by Erica Bauermeister

A wonderful story written from the viewpoint of eight students, strangers who come together on the first Monday of every month at Lillian’s restaurant for a cooking lesson. Each has their own reason for attending but all will find their lives changed by the experience. Richly textured and overflowing with descriptive images of food, the story comes alive. I could almost taste sauces and smell the various dishes. Brimming with metaphors, it was a delightful and charming story. The audiobook version, narrated by Cassandra Campbell, was a delight to listen to. Other than needing to keep track of eight characters, this was an easy listen and at only six hours, the time flew past.

Mary
Still Alice by Lisa Genova

Excellent book about a 50 year old Harvard Professor who develops early onset Alzheimers. Well written and gives a good insight into the struggles the individual and family go through.

Mary
Crooked Letter, Crooked Letter by Tom Franklin

Very good book set in Mississippi during the 1970s and 20 years later. This book is part mystery, a look at race relations, and has great character development. It's about a man who is ostracized from his community because people believe he was involved in the disappearance of a young girl 20 years previously and now he is suspected in the disappearance of another girl.

Maureen
The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

This is not my usual type of book, but it is for book club. However it is very good and I am enjoying the story very much. I recommend it.

Leslie Morrison
Milestones of Science and Technology by Edited by Peter Morris

Beginning with the Byzantine Sundial-Calendar (c520) and making our way to the present day, we journey through a fantastic presentation of important scientific achievements, discoveries and inventions. Each essay is accompanied by a photo or illustration on the following page and over 100 of the photos are in color. Each article provides a detailed overview filled with interesting facts and figures, while at the same time not overwhelming the non-scientist or mathematician. The beautiful photos give the feeling of wandering through a museum as we flip the pages. Pick and choose which essays to read; each is a self-contained article that can be read in any order. Highly recommended for those who enjoy both science and history.

Mary
The Kitchen House by Kathleen Grissom

A very enjoyable book about a girl who is orphaned on a boat coming from Ireland and she ends up working in the kitchen house on a plantation being raised by the slaves there. Eventually she moves to the big house and becomes part of the white world but struggles with the changes in expectations.

Muriel Logan
Crossroads by WM. Paul Young

I had liked Young's book The Shack and expected to like this one as well but didn't care as much for it. I wish separate story lines for some of the characters had been developed before Tony, the main character, was in a coma and went to some form of the afterlife. His time in the afterlife before meeting up with the characters he was supposed to interact with seemed to take too long and some of this part seemed too preachy to me. The character Tony and his life seemed too predictable also. There were certainly parts of the book I like as the story was developed, but it took a long time for me to get interested.

Debbie
Crooked Letter, Crooked Letter by Tom Franklin

Good book.

Walter Kretzmann
One Last Thing Before I Go by Jonathan Tropper

I loved this book. I love the dialogue, I loved the most unlovable character! I have said this before but I'll say it again: The conversations that Tropper comes up with are so real and honest. (okay maybe they are a little wittier than what I hear on a daily basis...) There is at least one scene in the book that will bring you to tears in good way. How Tropper manages to make his lead character into such a mess but somehow lovable I don't know. I love that redemption is achievable but not pretty or perfect in anyway. Just read it.

Natalie Ochockyj
American Wife by Curtis Sittenfeld

A fictionalized account of Laura Bush's life that lends the question where the lines between fact and fiction meet. Highly riveting and a delight to read!

Pat S
The Stonecutter by Camilla Lackberg

Friend told me of this author - read her first two and thoroughly enjoyed this newest one. I didn't figure it out until the very end - love those types of books!! Great Swedish author.

Pat S.
Cold Pursuit by Carla Neggers

I am slowly but surely reading my way through ALL of her books. Each one "grabs" you from the first page - absolutely love her writings. Highly recommend her books.

Phyllis Schmitz
The Widower's Tale by Julia Glass

A huge story with engaging characters that will just consume you....many of them quirky, but very interesting. Percy Darling, aged 71 years, is recently retired and finds many twists and turns in dealing with family and new friends. Really enjoyed with beautiful writing.

Dorothy Cowling
The Racketeer by John Grisham

Great story with more twists and turns than a pretzel.

Judy O.
Blood Money by James Grippando

Sydney Bennett was found not guilty of killing her 2 year old daughter. Her lawyer, Jack Swyteck, is now being stalked by a man who wants to do him and Sydney harm. Things get very tense and dangerous as they are trying to find a man who calls himself Merselus. This was a good read, but not anything special in my estimation.

Marsha
Blood Money by James Grippando

A sensational trial of a club-going mother accused of killing her small daughter has her lawyer, Jack Swyteck, in for the ride of his life. When she is acquitted against all the nation's sympathy with the dead child, Jack and his friends are all in jeopardy. The mother disappears and it seems like the whole nation is looking for her as her life is also in jeopardy. Very true to a recent trial also in Florida. Ring any bells?

Deborah Lefler
The Light Between Oceans by M. L. Stedman

This was totally different from anything I have ever read. I wasn't sure I would like it, but I couldn't put it down. It wasn't a mystery per se, but there were many mysteries that were revealed. A lighthouse keeper and his wife who have had many miscarriages discover a baby in a boat on the shore. They decide to keep it and raise it as their own. Meanwhile, a woman's husband and baby are lost at sea. It all becomes very interesting when they discover each other. It makes you ask yourself, "What would I do?"

Robin McKay
Elusive: Book #1 in the on the Run Series by Sara Rosett

On a normal, quiet day Zoe answers a knock on her door and her world tumbles into murder, mayhem, and craziness! The police tell her that Jack, her ex-husband, is missing and presumed dead. When she goes to his office to share the bad news with Conner, his business partner, she finds him murdered. The police quickly decide that Jack killed his partner and think Zoe knows much more than she admits. It turns out that Jack was a spy before they met and he thinks someone from his past is after him! Zoe and Jack team up to find out who framed him and is now trying to kill them. Elusive is a wonderful, witty story with lots of twists and a perfect ending.

Dawn Byers
The Boyfriend by Thomas Perry

A police detective is hired to find out who murdered a young girl. This takes you to the escort business and a man who is very smooth with women to intrigue them to want him to live with them. An intriguing mystery that keeps the pages turning to see what will happen next.

Sandy McCullough
The Crying Tree by Naseem Rakha

This book was great! I have to be careful telling you about it because there are some surprises towards the end. The family moves out west because the father, who is a deputy, says they need to. They have a son and a daughter. After a few years out there, the son is shot and killed, and things go from bad to terrible. The mother is having an awful time coping with the whole situation. They catch the killer and he is in prison on death row. OK, I am not telling anymore, but I love this book! Have to see if there are more by this author.

shelly itkin
Bear Is Broken by Lachlan Smith

It is never easy to grow up in the shadow of your older brother but Leo, who is twelve years younger then Teddy, his older brother, is doing just that. Teddy is a successful attorney who handles cases that are not always easy as they are mostly criminal cases. He has made a name for himself, and Leo is shadowing him until he also passes the bar exam. When Leo does finally get word he passed, Teddy says let’s go to lunch. Unfortunately, for the two brothers this lunch will change their lives forever.

Sharon B
Then Came You by Jennifer Weiner

Re-reading this book, and I think it's as good this time around as it was the first time I read it! Love the dynamics!

cindy Parry
Killing Lincoln: The Shocking Assassination that Changed America Forever by Bill O'Reilly and Martin Dugard

Great read!

James Sperduto
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn

Wow. A true page turner.

Jenn Pineo
Left Neglected by Lisa Genova

Written in a refreshingly witty, honest way. The reader feels a connection with Sarah that makes one both frustrated yet also optimistic. She is one character that reminds you to question everything you were so sure of just moments before.

Kaye
Chocolate Covered Murder by Leslie Meier

A fun cozy novel set in Tinker's Cove, Maine. Lucy Stone, reporter for the local Pennysaver, has lots to do to get ready for Valentine's day, but she didn't plan on being part of a murder investigation, that's for sure. Lots of action and mayhem in this one!

Pattie Berryhill
The Concrete Blonde by Michael Connelly

This novel is full of twists and turns. It is a great beach read or sitting by the pool. Harry Bosch is a great detective.

Francisca E B
Crooked Letter, Crooked Letter by Tom Franklin

Very good "mystery" Southern fiction about racial tension. The novel is centered on two boys, one white and one black, whose friendship is strained by rumor, innuendo, guilt and unsaid feelings.

Gil Harris
Gone For Good by Harlan Coben

A complicated plot involving the murder of a young girl and the disappearance of the suspected killer, who remains at large for eleven years. His brother presumes that he is dead. Many characters and changes of identity. A very, very surprise ending.

Donna Haueter
The Aviator's Wife by Melanie Benjamin

Great read. I wonder how much of it was true. I actually visited Lindbergh's grave site in Hawaii and wondered why his wife was not buried there.

Frances Drukten
The All of It by Jeannette Haien

A lovely story, I am so glad it's back in print. Beautifully written. This one will really stay with me!

Luanne Petrarca
Criminal by Karin Slaughter

Once you start this book, you won't want to put it down. Great Book.

Laura Davis
The 100-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out the Window and Disappeared by Jonas Jonasson

This book is pure entertainment! It is so funny, so clever, and so quirky. The only thing I didn’t like is that the old man met a lot of political leaders during his life, and I don’t like to read about politics. However, the back story of his life is funny too, and essential for understanding how and why he does what he does at 100 years old.

WALTER KRETZMANN
Ghosts of Cape Sabine: The Harrowing True Story of the Greely Expedition by Leonard F. Guttridge

In my view, the Lady Franklin Bay Expedition is the worst polar venture ever attempted. You have to have a very strong heart to read it all. In the last part of the book, you just wish to God the misery that those men lived will be over shortly. You find yourself hurrying the relief ships to arrive. What those poor men experienced was intolerable, and the author puts it cleanly on paper. So, yes, Shackelton's Endurace voyage, Mawson's forced solo march without food in Antarctica and the Robert Falcon Scott tragedy were horrible, but no so horrible in my mind to what A.W. Greely and his men went through. Weak heart, stay away from the book.

Luanne Petrarca
Criminal by Karin Slaughter

Once you start to read this book, you will find it hard to put it down.

Kathleen Carn
Dodger by Terry Pratchett

This is a good take-off on Charles Dickens. I really enjoyed this; the characters were believable and interesting.

Nancy Hausladen
The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh

This is the story of a girl who was given up at birth and raised in foster homes. Her life has been one of anger at everyone. At one foster home, she was taught the meaning of flowers by her foster mother. This love of flowers has shaped her life now that she is an adult. While working in a flower shop, she learns to match flowers to the people she helps. It is an enjoyable read.

Norene Wittlin
Small Town by Lawrence Block

Hard to get into, but some really good parts.

Rena Ackley
They Almost Always Come Home by Cynthia Ruchti

This novel explores grief and the toll it takes on our closest relationships. What if your spouse went missing while camping in the remote wilds of Canada? At first you aren't certain if there has been a tragedy or if he has left you. You might have even been thinking about leaving him. The main character finds that there is so much more to her husband than she thought and she may have lost what she was willing to throw away. The faithfulness of God, friends, and family is shown throughout. Beautifully written.

gretchen kempff
Cuba on My Mind by Katie Wainwright

My rating is unfair as I've just gotten 1/3 of the way through. I'm reading it for a book club. The author is local (south Louisiana) and will be attending our discussion. It's fiction but based on family stories about life in Cuba.

Nancy Van de Motter
The Tiger's Wife by Téa Obreht

Though our book club had differing ideas about this read, I enjoyed it's blend of Balkan myth and current situations. Ms.Obreht has a unique style that doesn't appeal to all, but I will read her next publication. I also enjoyed listening to the audio version.

Dean
The Book of Proverbs by Dejan Dejan

Simple and straightforward book with helpful answers to common problems. This book might be short, but provides enough information for reader to reflect on their world and problems encounter along the way. I highly recommend anyone to get their copy and start reading today!

Renee Booker
Another Piece Of My Heart by Jane Green

This story moved me so much, and I can feel how the main character Andi felt about being a step mother. I am a step mother and at first, started having the same issues. I felt that if they stayed, I would be living in hell just because I am not their mom, and their father wants be for them 100%. The last few characters let me know that life can do a U-turn and marriages can be saved with a blended family. It is a good book for a step parent to learn how to keep their life in tact.

Aaron Polish
Peninim on the Torah by Rabbi A. L. Scheinbaum

A great Jewish history and kind of long.

Betty Taylor
The Aleppo Codex by Matti Friedman

This book has good historical information about the ancient Jewish community of Aleppo, Syria. The existence of the Aleppo Codex is not widely known so learning about it is quite interesting.

Marsha
Vengeance by Benjamin Black

Renowned English writer, John Banville, writes mysteries under the name Benjamin Black. They feature a pathologist, Quirke, who sometimes partners with Inspector Hackett and together they solve very interesting murders. This one is the fifth in the series and could stand alone, but it would be better to read them in order to understand the fascinating character of Quirke. The first is Christine Falls. Enjoy this series.

Linda Doyle
Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand

This true story of WWII hero Louis Zamperini's life is both inspirational and amazing, and has become one of my top-10 favorite books of all time. It will appeal to both men and women readers. It is so much more than a war story; it shows the power of the human spirit and how it's possible to overcome anything if the spirit is strong.

shelley hitt
State of Wonder by Ann Patchett

The book captivated me from page one. The story is compelling with some interesting science and moral dilemmas as well. The characters are well developed and unusual. Ann Patchett is a master with words, and the book is a delight to read with a powerful ending that I cannot get out of my mind. Our group will see Ann Patchett during a lecture series in Denver in March. Can't wait!

Louise
You Can't Hide by Karen Rose

A prominent psychiatrist receives anonymous calls that her patients are on the verge of committing suicide. She runs to their abodes to find it's too late. Why are her patients being targeted, and who could have access to her private records and consultations?

Louise
I'm Watching You by Karen Rose

I've been trying to read all of Karen's books that have the same characters. I don't feel like I can give them 5 stars because I don't understand why she has to ruin good plots by constantly talking about how the characters are fantasizing about touching certain body parts of members of the opposite sex. Often, I've had to skip three pages to get back to the story.

Jane Squires
Broken Wings by Carla Stewart

The story of Gabe and Mitzi Steiner and their battle with Alzheimer's touched me. You see my mom had Alzheimer's for three years. It was hard living away and trying to some how let her know I was thinking of her. I lost my Mom three years ago. The last memories God gave with me remain with me always. Along side their story is Brooke Woodson's story, a story of abuse in a relationship. The cover up of broken bones, bruises, etc. are so real. A story of friendship and reaching out to someone in need.

Laurie Carlson
Love Finds You in Glacier Bay, Alaska by Tricia Goyer and Ocieanna Fleiss

Two love stories, one present and one past, through a series of letters. Ginny, a singer and girlfriend to Brad who lives in Glacier Bay, Alaska, comes there to visit, meets Brad's grandmother, and learns of her love story through a box of letters given to her to read. Glacier Bay is also known as Gustavus and Strawberry Point. To this day, even in the summer, the population is only about 400 with a lot of vacationers, as the area is so beautiful. It is here that Ginny must decide whether or not she and Brad will remain a couple, or if she will return to Los Angeles to continue pursuing her dream career of singing. Christian Fiction.

Nancy Ray
These High, Green Hills by Jan Karon

This is the third book of the Mitford series. Father Kavanagh is finally married to his sweetheart, contemplating retirement and doing what he does best --- taking care of the townspeople of Mitford. Delightful series!

Jackie Ranaldo
The Round House by Louise Erdrich

I'm only 100 pages through but, so far, an engaging storyline and well developed characters.

Dorothy
Until the End of Time by Danielle Steel

This is really two short stories. In the first one, a successful lawyer marries a successful fashion stylist. He becomes a minister and she agrees to move with him to Wyoming. They both believe in an after life. They are very much in love and, as with all of Danielle Steel's books, money is plentiful. The second book is about a young Amish woman. She writes a book and sends it to a book publisher in NY. They immediately fall in love. She is banished from her family and community because she didn't abide by Amish rules. Read on to find out how the two books are connected.

Karen Barash
Touch & Go by Lisa Gardner

This mystery has an unique plot with twists that will keep the reader guessing until the last page.

Sherri Fisher Staples
Help, Thanks, Wow by Anne Lamott

I was actually very disappointed with this book. I love Anne Lamott, and I loved PLAN B and TRAVELING MERCIES. But this book was just too rambling, too disjointed. I had a very hard time following her. I felt like she just jotted down random thoughts. Of the three chapters, "Wow" is the one that made the most sense. I so wanted to love this book, perhaps even needed to love this book at this time of my life, but instead I just felt terribly let down.

Jessica Engstrom
The Forgotten Garden by Kate Morton

An excellent read filled with twists and turns until the very end. Morton weaves an adventurous journey for the reader from the first page, gliding back and forth from past to present. Morton goes backwards and gives you great insight to why the characters have the personalities or attitudes that they have. The included fairy tales that are excerpts from a book she refers to in THE FORGOTTEN GARDEN are just the cherry on the cake. It was a fantastic read, and I highly recommend it to those who enjoy an escape about gardens, a cliff where you can smell the ocean rising up and a mystery that is ready to be unearthed.

Simonne Coutinho
Home Front by Kristin Hannah

Insightful story about a woman going to war, her crumbling marriage, motherhood and separation from her family. I found the story inspiring and offering hope. Made me shed a few tears.

Simonne Coutinho
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn

Suspense, suspense, suspense. Do I like Nick? Do I hate him? Sometimes I can't stand whiny Amy, sometimes I feel so damn sorry for her.

WALTER KRETZMANN
Lionel Asbo: State of England by Martin Amis

I decided to buy this book after reading the reviews. I could find no humor in it. It was very obscure. I think I missed the whole point of it.

Donna Boulmay
Two Old Women: An Alaska Legend of Betrayal, Courage, and Survival by Velma Wallis

A wonderful story about what we can do when there's no other way. It also speaks to our treatment of our senior citizens.

Norma
Home Front by Kristin Hannah

I liked author's story line incorporating issues of emotional intimacy, parenting, marriage spun through the web of a woman's military service. We, who don't serve, are given a griping insight into the rigors and cost imposed upon the families who do through this story. The author provides glimpses of her considerable skill in developing characters and sub-plots. I would have liked this book more had the author really dug deeper into these characters and their relationships. There were points where it seemed the author took the cliched easy way out rather than pursuing the harder deeper narrative. I'd agree with a 3.25 rating.

Michael McAdam
Shadow of Night by Deborah Harkness

It is a bad sign when you are reading a book and thinking, "Am I interested enough to keep reading?" I rarely give up and put books down as some books take several pages to become page turners. I made it through the first book (thinking that same thing a few times), and I am just interested enough to keep going on this one. It is pretty good but a little slow. Let's hope it gets better!

Wendy Catalano
Shadow Woman by Linda Howard

Lizzy wakes up one morning, looks in the mirror and doesn't recognize who she sees. Gaps in her memory start to surface and each one causes agonizing headaches. She begins to realize that she is being watched and that something is terribly wrong. Little by little her memories return putting her in danger and on the run. Xavier, a man from her past, finds her and helps her put the missing pieces of her life back together. SHADOW WOMAN by Linda Howard is a good romantic suspense and delivers a thoroughly enjoyable game of cat and mouse.

Vanessa
Running Wild by Linda Howard and Linda Jones

RUNNING WILD is a riveting romantic suspense set in scenic Wyoming. Linda Howard and Linda Jones return to classic western romance in the first book of this new series.

Tanya
Coming Home by Mariah Stewart

This is the first in a series by this author. I read number six and loved it so I am reading the rest in order. All of the books revolve around a small tourist town. The character development is great and I highly recommend the series.

Lynn Hough
The Rules of Inheritance by Claire Bidwell Smith

I like the concept of how it was written but, because the author bounced around back and forth between various ages in her lifetime, I found it made it harder to follow at times. I also think it would have been easier to connect with the author more had it been written in a consecutive time line with flashback type of references.

Sandy McCullough
Let's Take The Long Way Home by Gail Caldwell

This is a true story. Gail Caldwell and Caroline Knapp (author of DRINKING, A LOVE STORY) met over their dogs and became best friends, talking about everything from their love of books and their shared history of a struggle with alcohol to their relationship with men. Walking the woods of New England and rowing on the Charles River, these two women created an attachment more profound than either of them could ever have foreseen. I absolutely loved this book!

Robin McKay
Footprints in the Sand by Mary Jane Clark

Piper Donovan, an aspiring actress, is visiting Sarasota, Florida, to attend her friend's wedding. Before she even arrives, a friend of the bride has gone missing. Then a kindly older neighbor is run off the road. A young Amish boy hangs himself, but not before carving a clue to the identity of the murderer, into a wedding gift he has made for the bride and groom. Can Piper outwit the the guilty person before she becomes his next target? Clark does a wonderful job of weaving all the clues into a terrific read.

Sara
Medicine Men: Extreme Appalachian Doctoring by Carolyn Jourdan

This is a really entertaining read about what it takes to be a doctor in the Appalachian region. The story is written by the daughter of a doctor who was in charge of his office for many years. She interviewed numerous doctors from the area about their unique experiences. Some of the stories are hilarious while others very touching. I recommend this book.

Kylie J
Beloved by Toni Morrison

Only read because it was a book club selection. Beautifully written, just not something I enjoy reading.

Sharen Spratt
The House Girl by Tara Conklin

Excellent book.

Chris
Bliss by Kathryn Littlewood

I downloaded this book to my Nook for my teenager but am now reading it myself---it's delightful so far. Very light, of course, but whimsical too. The characters are being fleshed out nicely, so I have an idea about all of them pretty quickly. This would have been a great book to read at the beach!

JaneAnn Clear
The Color of Tea by Hannah Tunnicliffe

So far four stars, though it may be five by the time I finish but here I am only a third into it and it is a good read, well written and pulls you into the main character's life. Good book to curl up with. Like they say "I never go to bed alone I have my books" and now back to it.

Melissa Ferr
Barefoot in the Rain by Roxanne St. Claire

Really enjoyed this sequel to Barefoot in the Sand. Can not wait for the next in the series. Love the characters. Feels like I am in Barefoot Bay.

Beth OBrien
The Last Nude by Ellis Avery

Set in Paris, this is a romance as it should be with such a setting.....but one with a twist.....lovingly painted......with a sharp edge.

Veronica Earley
The Painted Girls by Cathy Marie Buchanan

I love it! It is a great read and well written. Buchanan also wrote The Day the Falls Stood Still and I couldn't put it down.

Rose David
Watergate by Thomas Mallon

This riveting account of the events leading to President Nixon's resignation combines fact with fiction. For anyone old enough to remember the events this book will bring that time back to life and for those too young to remember what happened, the book will give them an appreciation of what that time was like.

Kathryn
A Week in Winter by Maeve Binchy

I will miss Maeve Binchy's wonderful stories, though I have some that I still have yet to read. As they often do, this one tells of people whose lives intersect, and we also run across mentions of people and places we have met before (e.g Signora from Evening Class, and Quentins restaurant). And a marvelous quote "It's not what I thought my life would be either, but somewhere along the way we have to pick things up and run with them." According to a review of her life and books that I clipped out, this was her own philosophy as well, when she said in a radio interview once, "I think that you've got to play the hand that you're dealt and stop wishing for another hand." Such wise words.

Walter Kretzmann
The Yellow Birds by Kevin Powers

I listened to the author on MSNBC and thought it sounded like a good book. Unfortunately, they made it sound better than it was. I was rather disappointed.

Debbie M
The Sun Also Rises by Ernest Hemingway

After reading The Paris Wife, I was disappointed in The Sun Also Rises. So many of the scenes are repeated in both books, with more detail in The Paris Wife. All the drinking and carousing and fighting becomes too much. The relationships are sketchy in both books. The bull fighting and fishing are very detailed. I would venture to say that The Sun Also Rises is a book that most men would enjoy, but I felt under currents of homosexuality.

Jayme
The End of Yor Life Book Club by Will Schwalbe

The End of Your Life Book Club is a loving tribute to Schwalbe's mother who died of pancreatic cancer. During the last years of her life Will and his mother created a book club of two and it is through books that they gained a deeper understanding of each other. I liked this book and found the discussions of the books that they chose to read interesting; however, I’m not sure that someone who doesn’t have a deep passion for books would enjoy it. The story of Schwalbe’s mother and her living with cancer tends to get lost amidst the highbrow analyzing of the books that they read. It's worth reading, but you need to know what the focus is going in, or you may be disappointed.

Jayme
A Land More Kind Than Home by Wiley Cash

This superbly written book captures life in the hills and hollers of North Carolina almost effortlessly. From the detailed descriptions of the mountains to the cadence of the language Cash tells the tragic story about what happens when fanaticism, fear, and family collide. I really enjoyed this book and highly recommend it. A book filled with guns, lust, religion, whiskey, and snakes isn’t a bad way to spend a weekend.

Lynn Demsky
Performance Anomalies by Victor Robert Lee

"Performance Anomalies" was a very interesting read! Normally I read mysteries, cozy mysteries, a few suspense romance novels but Spy books just has never been my cup of tea. I did win this book and it really was good. Cono, the main character has a gifted ability that helps him be great at his job --- which he chases all over the world trying to accomplish. The ending was good and not what I figured would happen. The whole book was nothing predictable making it a thoroughly enjoyable read! Would recommend to anyone who likes any kind of suspense book. Am looking forward to another adventure by Cono! For a first time book, GREAT job to Mr. Victor Robert Lee!

Rosemary Saar
Trust Your Eyes by Linwood Barclay

What a great read! It just keeps moving. Lots of characters and just full of suspense. You think you know where it is going, and then someone new pops in the story! So hard to put down. Love it.

Wendy Catalano
Release Me by J. Kenner

It's novels like this that have quickly made Erotic Romance one of my favorite genres. "Release Me" is a deeply sensual story, filled with emotion, that pulled at my heartstrings. Both damaged by their past, Billionaire Damien Stark and ambitious college graduate Nikki Fairchild meet at the opening of an art show. Their immediate attraction lead them on a journey of desire, passion and wild abandon. An electrifying story that doesn't end with this book. I can hardly wait to read "Claim Me," the 2nd book in this trilogy.

Walter Kretzmann
Telegraph Avenue by Michael Chabon

I found this book to be basically unreadable and poorly edited. I was looking forward to another Chabon novel but this was a waste of time.

Shirley Roseland
Thunderstruck by Erik Larson

We have just started reading this book and so far 1/3 of the way into the book, I find it very good. The experiments, the different lives/ characters in the book, is going to keep the story moving right along I can tell. Wondering who will do what next.

Donna Shaw
Worse Fears Realized by Stuart Woods

Another Stone Barrington book. I love this series.

Francisca E B
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

Can I give this SIX stars? TEN stars? I've read this extraordinary work many times. It's a book about personal courage, about doing what is right even when it is difficult or dangerous, and about instilling these values in your children by example not just words.

Donna Shaw
True Detectives by Jonathan Kellerman

Two brothers who have different fathers have a history that keeps them at odds with each other; one a detective and the other a private investigator. In spite of their differences, they are brought together when trying to solve a cold case of a missing girl.

Judy O.
Mrs. Lincoln's Dressmaker by Jennifer Chiaverini

I thoroughly enjoyed 2/3 of this book. It took us through the relationship between Mary Todd Lincoln and her dressmaker Elizabeth Keckley. Her relationship with Mrs. Lincoln was one that lasted for many years and was very intense. The other 1/3 of the book was like a history lesson on the Civil War. I ended up skimming through those parts. I would have enjoyed less of the war and more about Elizabeth Keckley herself, her days as a slave, and how she was able to buy her freedom for herself and her son.