Betty Claire from Royal Oak, MI
Kathy from Rex, GA
Lindsey from Caswell Beach, NC
Mary from West Roxbury, MA
Peggy from Oro Valley, AZ
Linda Bass
Enchanted Realms by Eleni Konstantine
STARS, but Enchanted Realms is good if only two very short stories that make you long for more as both heroines find their place in love.
Both Ellie and Vera were loners in life with no family or close friends until accidents or is it fate decides to see the joys of an undying love!!
Suzy Marcus
I Remember Nothing by Nora Ephron
A short final book by the late Nora Ephron, this collection of essays is well-written, heartfelt, and for me a very emotional read. Ms. Ephron captures fully such fluffy topics as egg white omelets and email along with very very serious topics such as divorce and alcoholism. I have only read Heartburn, a novel of her marriage with Carl Bernstein, but after reading this book I am going to read the rest of Ms. Ephron's work.
Suzy Marcus
Hiding in Sunshine by John and Caitlin Stuart
This first effort by a father-daughter writing team is topical and quite an in-depth effort to show just how seriously cyber-terrorism can affect one family. A thriller, the book starts a bit slowly but the exposition is necessary to establish the characters firmly in our minds as we proceed through the book. Our heroic family's attempt to survive when cyber-attacked, over a lengthy period of time, gets more and more interesting as the book progresses. I look forward to more books by the authors.
wendy swanson
The Storyteller by Jodi Picoult
I couldn't put it down! Another great book by this author!
Mary Sylvester
A Week In Winter by Maeve Binchey
Love this book. Great characters and so well written. So sorry that we will never again be treated to a Maeve Binchey book.
Phoebe Anderson
The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry by Rachel Joyce
A story of perseverance and life lessons
Karen Barash
You Before Me by Jo Jo Moyes
When I started reading this book about a young man who becomes a quadriplegic after an accident and his relationship with his care assistant, I was reminded of the movie The Intouchables. Although the movie was excellent, I didn't expect to be drawn into the book because it seemed so similar. However, I was drawn in by this author's writing and the book had a strong emotional impact on me.
Lynn Jarrett
The Long Exile by Melanie McGrath
In the early 1950s, the Canadian government decided to move several Inuit families from the eastern shore of the Hudson Bay 1,200 miles north to the barrenlands Arctic area of Canada. Various reasons were given for this move but nonetheless, the families were basically dumped off on the shore and expected to support themselves off the land. They had been told that there was sufficient plant life and game and the government expected them to live their regular lives. Unfortunately, that did not happen. Very few animals lived there. Very few plants grew there. The weather was so cold that it did not snow so they were not able to build snow houses to survive the Arctic winter and had to live in tents. It was a very sad time for the Inuit.
Diane Porter
Fever by Mary Beth Keane
This novel is based on the life of Mary Mallon aka Typhoid Mary. It is a heart-wrenching read about a young Irish girl sent to America to live with her grandmother's sister. Mary's struggle to become a cook is all erased when a sanitation inspector makes the announcement that she is spreading the fever. The book is both well-written and well-researched. Readers care about Mary, but also get frustrated with her stubbornness. I am enjoying it so much, I am looking for her first novel as well.
Debbie Smith
When She Woke by Hilary Jordan
Fantastic book. A modern futuristic take on The Scarlet Letter. Thoroughly engaging book. The lead character ultimately determines how to live as herself. Highly recommend this book.
Lillian Tanon
The Seamstress by Frances de Pontes Peebles
Emilia and Luzia are raised by their Aunt Sofia in rural northeastern Brazil in the 1920s. Their lives diverge in their late teens when Luzia is abducted by a notorious band of outlaws led by "The Hawk". Shortly thereafter, Emilia marries into high society and moves to the coastal city of Recife. As the years go by, the sisters keep track of each other in the newspapers. Emilia appears in the society pages, and Luzia in the headlines as a criminal now known as "The Seamstress". They cannot have direct contact because Emilia must protect the secret that this outlaw is her sister.
Fascinating, tragic, hopeful, and worth every page.
Diane Pollock
Salt Sugar Fat by Michael Moss
Fascinating look at the processed food industry...
Janice Baly
Chronicles of Downton Abbey by Jessica Fellowes and Matthew Sturgis
This book is a companion to the third season of the PBS series, Downton Abbey. It provides background information about each of the characters and puts them in historical perspective. There is also a chapter that provides a behind the scenes look at the production of the series.
Dian Boysen
The Round House by Louise Erdrich
A very interesting storyline. The narrator Joe is the son whose mother is raped. The characters are well-drawn. A riveting storyline. It gave insight to the laws of the reservations. A great read.
Rhoda MacMaster
In The Blink of an Eye by Wendy Corsi Staub
A sleepy little town, psychics abound. A blind little girl and her father come to the town to clean out the grandmother's house. They meet a new friend who is medium and their are some type of spirits in the house. Very good book. I like reading Wendy Corsi Staub's page turners.
Patricia Hunter
Temple of a Thousand Faces by John Shors
Am enjoying it a lot. However, I liked Beneath a Marble Sky better.
Rhonda
Life After Life by Jill McCorkle
Life in an old age home, a warm wonderful book looks at aging from the eyes of young volunteers to the residents of the home.
Tessa B C
Off Season by Catherine Gilbert Murdock
The continued story of D.J. Schwenk - dairy farmer, high school junior, basketball player - and her family. D.J. is a strong role model for teen girls. She juggles responsibility to her family against her crush on the local football hero. Audio very well performed by Natalie Moore.
Jean L
In the Woods by Tana French
This is a very exciting book. A very interesting study of human psychopath plays a minor role.
John Talc
The Referee and Raven Is Down by James Kirvin
I recently read these two books by James Kirvin and they were excellent. I never heard of this author before and he apparently doesn't write often. Anyone know anything about him? If you like a real page turner, you must read his books. I couldn't believe either ending. He has quite an imagination.
Jean L
The Husband List by Janet Evanovich and Dorien Kelly
Caroline Maxwell would like nothing more than to join her brother, Eddie, and his friend, Jack Culhane, on their adventures. Caroline's stuck at home frightening off the men her mother hopes will ask for her hand in marriage. I was disappointed in this book.
Jean L
Raylan by Elmore Leonard
This book is written about the character in the current tv series Justified.
Jean L
Murder of a Small Town Honey by Denise Swanson
This is a good cozy murder mystery. It is the first book of a fun series.
Jean l
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austin
This is a classic that I had heard of all my life but had never read. Finally I did read it and I am glad.
Beverly Wiese
Shiver by Lisa Jackson
This is a great read. I thought I had kept up with Lisa's books, but somehow I had missed this one. I'm glad I caught it.
Jean Lesslie
Body Double by Tess Gerritsen
Boston medical examiner Dr. Maura Isles is shocked to discover that a murdered woman looks exactly like her. For Maura, an only child, a DNA test confirms the startling fact: the mysterious dead woman was her twin sister. A very exciting page turner.
CHRISTEN BEZOSKI
Garden of Stones by Sophie Littlefield
Interesting story from inside a Japanese internment camp.
Susan Johnson
Life After Life by Kate Atkinson
I received a "Life After Life" advance copy and catapulted it on my top 10 Best Books Ever. It was such a thought provoking novel that I could bearly put down. Ursula Todd dies repeatedly and then relives her life again. Each time history changes slightly and her impact on others lives changes theirs. We've all had moments that sent our life on different paths and wondered what would have happened if we had made the other choice. I can't recommend this novel more highly.
Wendy Catalano
S.E.C.R.E.T by L. Marie Adeline
Cassie Robichaud leads a sad and lonely life after the sudden death of her alcoholic husband. She is a waitress at the rundown Cafe Rose in New Orleans, and every night she goes home to her one-bedroom apartment. One day at work Cassie discovers a journal left behind by a woman that she secretly admires. The mind-blowing contents lead Cassie to S.E.C.R.E.T, a secret society dedicated to helping women broaden their horizons, work towards being the woman they want to be and to fulfill their most intimate sexual fantasies.
Although Cassie has many partners in the steps she was taking, I felt that each one was a learning experience helping her to grow into the woman she wished to become.
Francisca E B
The Caligrapher's Daughter by Eugenia Kim
3.5 stars. This is very good historical fiction about a Korean family from 1918 to 1948. The story focuses on the daughter - Nijan - and her struggle for independence against her family's traditional expectations.
Judith Reynolds
The Sisters by Nancy Jensen
This book had an interesting format, giving brief vignettes in the lives of women in a family over several generations. Though it sometimes skips a number of years between episodes in these women's lives, the story comes together to show the effects of secrets kept, mistakes made and triumphs realized in spite of all. Many important issues are addressed and the characters are strong, making for a great read and good discussion topics for a group.
Sondra R Fowler
Starting Now by Debbie Macomber
Really touched my heart.
Elizabeth Vollbach
The Orchardist by Amanda Coplin
THE ORCHARDIST is a lovely book, and many people rave about it. So you might not want to pay attention to my criticism. Maybe they're right and I'm wrong. But I have two problems with this book.
First, the author, Amanda Coplin, never lets her readers know any character. She glosses over everything.
Second, Coplin uses too many sentence fragments, and she doesn't use quotation marks. This is a device, I'm sure, but for what, I'm not sure. I only know that the result for the reader is choppy sentences that are difficult to read. Over and over, I had to reread paragraphs because I had to figure out when someone was talking and when they quit talking.
Elizabeth Vollbach
Dark Places by Gillian Flynn
DARK PLACES was written by Gillian Flynn before she wrote her 2012 smash success GONE GIRL. Although the two books are different, DARK PLACES is every bit as good as GONE GIRL, and I encourage you to read it. It's a five-star book.
This book begins with a declaration by one main character that will interest you right away. There's no wait of several pages or chapters here, no wondering whether you should give up after page 50.
From there, you will learn, little by little, of an event 30 years ago. You think you see what happened until you see it from another main character's perspective. And every chapter divulges more and more information.
Elizabeth Vollbach
Faithful Place by Tana French
This is such an exceptionally well-written character-driven thriller!
Kathy Olinger
Another Piece of my Heart by Jane Green
A family in emotional disaster. You will have anger, sympathy, for the characters. The patience and love that also play out in the story.
Lynn Tamms
The Bartender's Tale by Ivan Doig
Ivan Doig's memoir THIS HOUSE OF SKY led me to fall in love with Montana. Lucky for me, I get to go there every summer for three weeks. THE BARTENDER'S TALE is his latest book set on the eastern slope of the Rocky Mountains. Doig's writing is very evocative and I find myself wanting to be in Montana asap. I had the good fortune of meeting Doig at a book signing in Helena a few years ago.
Mary Rodriguez
Odd Mom Out by Jane Porter
A good book for all mothers that have their own unique personalities; a funny and enjoyable read.
Julie Towson
Evergreen by Belva Plain
This is my first exposure to this author and I am really enjoying this book. It's a family saga that starts around the First World War and goes to the Kennedy administration. There are many twists and turns in the lives of all the family members and it's interesting to see how the characters change as the times change. If you enjoy family sagas, you'll really like this book.
Pam Nolan
Where We Belong by Emily Giffin
Enjoyed much more than I expected. Characters were very heartfelt. When Marian becomes pregnant at 18 she hides this from everyone except her mother. She keeps it a secret from the father of her child and never discloses it in any of her relationships. When Kirby enters her life 18 years later... she must come to terms w/ the depth of her secret and how it has affected her relationships, family, etc. Ultimately she does accept that a secret is a lie and she must confront her past in order to move forward. Kirby was a very likeable character and in her journey to discovering her birth parents she kept a balanced perspective respecting and honoring her family that had nurtured and loved her.
Betty Claire Wilkins
Unconquered: The Saga of Cousins Jerry Lee Lewis, Jimmy Swaggart, and Mickey Gilley by J. D. Davis
Mickey Gilley, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Jimmy Swaggert , cousins who grew up together in Ferriday, LA. I heard Mickey singing You Don't know Me. I knew the three were cousins and grew up together. I searched in Google to see what was there and found this book. Just thought it was an interesting set of circumstances. I was born in LA and my cousin's dad had a gas station in Ferriday in the late 1930s to 40s. I do mostly read fiction: mystery and romance.
Luanne Jeffery
Until I Say Good-bye by Susan Spencer-Wendel
I was just glued to this book about ALS. I just wish this was published so I could have read it to my mother during her illness with the same disease. It was a difficult book to read because I was personally affected, however, but I loved it all the same.
Joyce Clark
Maisie Dobbs by Jaqueline Winspear
A mystery with a little "Downton Abbey" thrown in. I'll be reading more of Maisie!
Sheryl
Stalking Season by Maryann Miller
This is the 2nd book of a really good series set in Dallas, TX. I enjoyed the 1st one Open Season as well. I sure hope that Ms. Miller is going to continue the series.
Sheryl
Guilt by Jonathan Kellerman
Exceptional, I really loved this book! I've not been all the excited about some of his latest novel, but this is the old Kellerman.
Anne Marie Koschnick
Hudson Run by J. E. Kross
Kross is a real conductor on the train from Albany to NYC, so she uses real terms and experiences that add to reality of the story. However, sometimes, I had a hard time following the sequence of events that took place. I don't know if it was my "fault" (reading late at night or 'blinking') or if something was missing. The banter between the 2 main characters, Sheri and Jackie, was good, though sometimes too much. Though the first chapter was an exciting event that the story then goes back and explains how it got to that point, it seemed to take a long time before the story really heated up. Being an avid reader, I was able to predict the roles of the characters, but I haven't finished it yet, so the end could still be a surprise.
Susan Mayhew
Fall of Giants by Ken Follett
Ken Follett book takes you back to the beginning of the First World War. I love the fact that he has different people's lives entwined with history of the beginning of the war. I am so intrigued with all the characters and the history and so will you.
Donna Moody
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
Had a little trouble getting started reading, but once the story gets going it's really hard to put it down. You go from disliking Nick to being a little more understanding and sympathetic, while you start out liking Amy you start to realize she has a dark side. Great page-turning read.
Barbara Leaf
A Tree Grows In Brooklyn by Betty Smith
This is a real classic that deserves to be re-read by grandma and discovered by new generations. Having been brought up in Brooklyn in the 40s and 50s, I can say that his book rings true. It brought me back to my childhood - my family and friends. How the fathers struggled to earn every penny and by any means. How the mothers tried to stretch that money as best that they could. I enjoyed the book because I identified with the main character, a little girl who loved the Tree of Heaven, the title tree. I, too loved a Tree of Heaven. I was so connected to the story that I cried at the ending. I won't say if I cried for sadness, or cried for joy. You'll have to read the book to find out.
Dennis Beierbach
Starting Now by Debbie Macomber
Nice but no meat.
Pat S
Cinnamon Roll Murder by Joanne Fluke
Her books are always delightful - and you get some good recipes too.
Rosemary Sobczak
Animal, Vegetable, Miracle by Barbara Kingsolver
Makes you really think about what you are putting in your mouth.
Betty Chrastka
The Observations by Jane Harris
A rather bawdy, funny story featuring a young Irish maid employed by an eccentric English woman. The story starts out as a biographical tale and turns into a thriller/mystery.
Karen Catignani
A Lesson in Secrets by Jacqueline Winspear
I am trying to catch up in this series featuring Maisie Dobbs. I find these historical novels both enjoyable and informative.
Julie Bakke
The Forgotten Garden by Kate Morton
Wonderful insightful story spanning generations --- set in England, Australia and US -- interesting story of generations of a family experiencing such tragedy and family secrets.
Cassandra Early
Heart of Ice by P.J. Parrish
What a great mystery! The sisters have done it again on a wonderful story that starts out with a bang. It just gets better and better. Read and enjoy!
Jeanette Crossett
A Night To Remember by Walter Lord
A classic book of the night of the sinking of the Titanic in 1912. The author interviewed passengers that where still alive in 1956!!!!!!! The book tells of the era. When you start to read it grabs you until the very end. What the band played at the very end "Nearer my god to thee", it was a different time the Edward era. Where men were men, the women genteel. Dawn of a new age.
Linda Hitchcock
The Flamethrowers by Rachel Kushner
Riveting book set in 1977 New York and Italy. Brilliant writing from author of Telex from Cuba which was nominated for a National Book Award. This second novel is equally prize worthy. It's a must read.
Linda Reck
The End of the Point by Elizabeth Graver
This is a multi-generational saga that takes place between 1942 and the Vietnam. The Porters go up to heir house, Nashaunt, off the coast of New England. The narrative is divided into four parts, each being told by a different person with a different outlook and personality, and at a different time. It's epic. The novel deals with love, illness, frustration ambition politics and, most importantly the place, Nashaunt.
I've read Elizabeth Graver's Unravelling and now I'm going to read the rest of her books.
I find it very engrossing, especially seeing how the characters grow in age as well as personality.
chekita hernandez
The Wicked Girls by Alex Marwood
I received this book as a member of Penquin First Flights. It is an ARC. It releases 08/13. It is very fast paced, and grabs you from the start. The characters are engrossing and yet genuinely disturbing.
Rosemary DeMarois
Crooked Letter, Crooked Letter by Tom Franklin
This is a stunning crime novel, good enough to read more than once.
Barbara Mardones
The Aviator's Wife by Melanie Benjamin
Only 1/3 of the way through, I have to say I was instantly drawn in to the family dynamic of Anne Morrow and the unexpected attentions of her suitor, Charles Lindberg. I am enjoying it and will probably recommend it to friends.
Marsha
Past Imperfect by Julian Fellowes
When a wealthy man lies dying, he asks an old colleague to determine which of his past lady loves has given birth to his child. He received an anonymous letter indicating that such a child exists. He has no heirs and his massive wealth should be given to the now grown child. We are subjected to a great deal of explanation of how the moneyed class lived and loved. From debutante season to parties and balls we follow a group of very self-centered and indulgent youth.
karen cancienne
Rage Against The Dying by Becky Masterman
Excellent thriller. Great story with twists and turns. Great characters. I could not put it down.
Sandy Daily
The Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman
Intriguing plot... Couldn't put the book down.
Sandy McCullough
The Color of Light by Karen White
At thirty-two, pregnant and recently divorced, Jillian Parrish and her seven-year-old daughter find refuge and solace on Pawleys Island, South Carolina. Jillian had experienced her best childhood memories here-until her best friend Lauren Mills disappeared, never to be found. At the time, Linc Rising, Lauren's boyfriend and Jillian's confidant, had been a suspect in Lauren's disappearance. Now he's back on Pawleys Island, renovating the old Mills house. And as ghosts of the past are resurrected, and Jillian's daughter begins having eerie conversations with an imaginary friend named Lauren, Jillian and Linc will uncover the truth about Lauren's disappearance and about the feelings they have buried for sixteen years.
Sarah Chao
Now You See Her by James Patterson
This book was extremely creepy and the plot was twisted in so many ways! My predictions were all wrong and James Patterson definitely surprised me with this novel. I loved it and recommend it to anyone who loves mysteries.
Gina
Six Years by Harlen Coben
At last the long drought is over! Coben is back after years of mediocre books. "Six Years" recaptures the early days of "Gone for Good". The plot is good with clues spread out along the
way. It was a relief to me personally that there was not the sadistic gore of the past too. I recommend this book - something I have not been able to say of his work in years.
Gail Sorum
The Wanderer by Robyn Carr
I have been waiting for this latest book of Robyn Carr to be released.
Alice Moffitt
Gloryland by Shelton Johnson
Elijah Yancy is born on Emancipation Day, 1863, to a sharecropping family of African and Indian blood. He leaves Spartanburg, South Caroline (as a teenager) and walks to Nebraska where he joins the army. He becomes a buffalo soldier. He serves at the Florida blockade, at Luzon in the Philippines, Crissy Field in San Francisco, and finally at Yosemite National Park in 1903. This story tells of the discrimination of the blacks and Indians during that time period. The author is also a poet and it is evident in his writing. I recommend this book highly, especially to Californians, as a history lesson. Fictional stories based on facts are always intriguing.
Judy Ross
Autobiography of Us by Mary Beth Sloss
I have devoured this book in a weekend, excellent read.
Sue Marie Rendall
The Forgotten by David Baldacci
A mystery with a twist...that keeps you wondering who are "the good guys" and who are "the bad guys" and who is working for whom? I love Baldacci's plot, characterizations and way of writing that draws you in and doesn't let you go.
Laureen Crotteau
Quarantined by Joe McKinney
The premise of the story of was good. A town has an epidemic of the H2N2 virus and are quarantined from the rest of the country. The majority of our club felt that it was a good basis of the story but too many things were hard to believe. No electricity, water, hard to get food delivered, etc. The story was good but had too many unanswered questions like these. In the age of satellites there would still be connection through internet, phones etc. and they lacked this. Didn't feel like there was much of a climax to the story either. There is a death and they are searching for the killer but even after that is uncovered, there was no suspense to it.
Ivy Pittman
The Twelve Tribes of Hattie by By Ayana Mathis
Hattie's life has been one tragedy and struggle after another. She has lived through a philandering husband, the death of twin babies and the tribulations of all of her other children. In the end she is determined to save her one living tribe, her grandchild, from a God who did not protect or save her children.
Bonnie Rae Gonzales
If You Find Me by Emily Murdoch
The writing in this book is like prose, it grabs you from the very first sentence and by the first page you don't even want to put it down. It is the story of fifteen-year-old Carey and her little sister who are living in an old camper deep in the woods with their mom who has both mental and addiction problems and leaves them for longer and longer spells and Carey feeds them with canned beans and what wild game she can get. She really takes care of her little sister. And then one day, a social worker and Carey's father show up to take them to a world of school and home and meals and electricity and running water. But they have a secret. How will it all wind up for the girls? I wish I was better at writing reviews but don't miss.
Lois Lilling
21 Aldgate by Patricia Friedberg
A wonderful story of a family in London before the start of WW2. Interesting characters intermingled with historical figures like Churchill.
Dorothy Gordon
The Spies of Warsaw by Alan Furst
This is a first rate historical novel with well drawn characters and an excellent feel for the pre-WW2 machinations of various government agents in mostly eastern Europe.
Mercier is the military attache (read spy) stationed in Warsaw. A wounded veteran of the Great Was, he had increasing intelligence that the Germans are seriously ramping up their intentions to dominate Europe once again. Furst is a great writer and you feel the place and time is very real.
Debbie M
The Curse of the Pharaohs by Elizabeth Peters
Amelia Peabody loves to talk and explain in detail all that is happening. Sometimes the detail is too much and the reader gets lost in all this description. The story takes many twists and turns, but the capturing and exposure of the killer is very trite. Amelia openly praises the character of her husband, her son, and herself too much. I enjoy the description of the exploration into the Egyptian tombs, and can feel the heat and hard work necessary to uncover history. Of course, Peters hints at an active marital relationship between Emerson and Peabody. Isn't the hint more seductive than the blatant description of most authors?
Gil Harris
The Beggar's Opera by Peggy Blair
Surprise after surprise. A young boy in Cuba who must beg from foreign tourists in order to survive shows up dead, an apparent victim of sexual abuse, beating and drowning. A major suspect is a Canadian policeman on vacation. It appears to be a slam dunk case against him. But wait, was he framed? You won't find out the ending until the very last page. This outstanding book is her first novel. Can't wait for more books from her.
KG
The Snow Child by Eowyn Ivey
This is the story of an elderly couple in Alaska. After a snowstorm they construct a little girl made of snow, and she comes to life. This is a tale of friendship, love, sadness and loss. It is a wonderful fairy tale-like read that I found hard to put down.
Colin Beierbach
Starting Now by Debbie Macomber
Quaint tale.
Marie Ledin
Illusion by Frank Peretti
Starts out keeping your interest right away. A magician's wife who is also a magician is killed in an accident; her husband feels he sees her 40 years later but as a young adult. Is it an illusion or a hallucination? He has been told to watch for symptoms such as these for his own health and safety. A mix with science and faith, faith being the more powerful. Another good win from FaithfulReader.com.
Laura Busch
Family Pictures by Jane Green
Compelling and fast paced story with complex characters.
Mary Lynn
Comfort & Joy by Kristin Hannah
Different from any other of her books, but it's okay. I would rather have read another one of her books, and I have read some really good books of hers.
Linda Nudell
Another Piece of My Heart by Jane Green
Not crazy about the writing or the characters.
Linda Harrison
The Panther by Nelson DeMille
John Corey is a retired NYPD detective now working for the Anti-Terrorist Task Force. His wife, Kate Mayfield, is an agent with the FBI. As John and Kate “volunteer” for duty in Yemen to find and apprehend a terrorist known as The Panther, both feel there is a hidden agenda they are not told about. In Yemen, they have to deal with crooked politicians and Bedoin tribesmen as well as a crazy CIA operative. I thoroughly enjoyed the book, especially the sarcasm of John Corey. His comments made for a lot of laughs.
Linda Harrison
Full Black by Brad Thor
As ex-Seal Scot Harvath works with Reed Carlton to try and find the Islamic cells in the US and stop further bombings, they are shocked to find who the instigator is and how he plans for the downfall of America. A great book with warnings that our country’s leaders should listen to closely.
Linda Harrison
Did You Miss Me? by Karen Rose
As Daphne Montgomery wins her big court case, she has no way of knowing that her son has been kidnapped and her biggest fight is just beginning. This is a great book that keeps your attention up to the last page.
Linda Harrison
Abandoned Prayers by Gregg Olsen
This book is a synopsis of a crime committed in the mid-1980s, when the body of a small child was found abandoned in a lonely field in Nebraska and his father was investigated for the murder.
Linda Harrison
Private Berlin by James Patterson and Mark Sullivan
Private is the investigative firm head by Jack Morgan, and this book takes place at their Berlin office. One of their best operatives is missing and they are reviewing his files to find out who he was investigating. I thought the book was suspenseful as most of Patterson’s books are.
Linda Harrison
Alex Cross, Run by James Patterson
Someone is out to get Alex Cross, someone who has a score to settle. But, Alex has to keep his cool no matter how much this guy riles him. Of all of James Patterson’s characters, Alex Cross is my favorite.
Linda Harrison
The Blood Gospel by James Rollins and Rebecca Cantrell
Cardinal Bernard of the Vatican has assembled the three (the woman of learning, the warrior of man, and the knight of Christ) as foretold by old legends to seek out and return the Blood Gospel, a book supposedly written by Christ in his own blood. In searching for the artifact, these three come across monsters that no one thought real. This was a thoroughly enjoyable book and I can’t wait until the next one when they seek the First Angel.
Linda Harrison
Shiver by Karen Robards
An excellent book that will reel you in at the first page and keep you reading till the end. The book is very suspenseful with a twist at the end that you won’t see coming.
Linda Harrison
Sweet Possession by Maya Banks
A good love story where a headstrong young singer fights against her growing love for her bodyguard.
Linda Harrison
Allingham by John Horst
A great story of a New York policeman who moved to the Arizona territory to die. Instead of death, he found a purpose to his life and the will to live his life to the fullest. This was a well-written book with a story that kept your attention from the first page.
Linda Harrison
Shadow Woman by Linda Howard
A good mystery involving a woman who is slowly remembering her past, which could result in her death. Then she has the dreams involving a mysterious man whom she calls Mr. X. Is he a part of her past?
Linda Harrison
Guilt by Jonathan Kellerman
I was disappointed by this book as it did not seem as good as previous books by Kellerman. Too much emphasis was placed on Milo’s eating habits rather than getting to the gist of the story.
Scott Evans
Foxavier and Plinka by Scott Evans
A whimsical tale from an institute that would have Ken Kesey cuckoo with jealousy. From the twisted (in the best way) mind of Scott Evans comes this soon to be classic tale of love and cookies. You too should be committed if you don't wisely invest the cost of an Angus burger in expanding your mind through this delightful story. If that doesn't convince you, have one of these Kooky cookies and think it over.
Debra Duggan
Into the Darkest Corner by Elizabeth Haynes
The book kept me on the edge of my seat; very suspenseful. It was a real mind tease. I enjoyed the way the story when back and forth through the past and present. You feel for Cathy and what she goes through especially how her OCD develops. Pick up this book; you will not be disappointed.
Alice Sliss
The Storyteller by Jodi Picoult
An absolute winner. Although the Holocaust is never an easy subject, Picoult has once again written a page turner that is gripping and highly emotional.
Elizabeth Vollbach
The Andalucian Friend by Alexander Söderberg
I couldn't finish this. I read more than 100 pages, and it not only did not grab my attention, it was boring me to tears.
Janice Goldader
The Secrets of Mary Bowser by Lois Leveen
This is a great read for people who like historical fiction. It is a wonderful story of a woman who is born into slavery, gains her freedom to be educated and works in Jefferson Davis' household. Unbeknownst to the house, she reads, and in there lies the help she can give to the Yankee camps. Highly recommend for anyone who likes civil war stories.
Carol Stroup
Secrets of Eden by Chris Bohjalian
Very interesting read. A tragedy from the perspectives of four very different characters. Wonderful character development and prose from this prolific author. If you have not already, take a look at his website. He updates his blog frequently with a wide variety of entertaining and thought provoking content.
Lynn W
Below Zero by C. J. Box
Each book in the "Joe Pickett" series is better than the last.
Tamye Machina
The Storyteller by Jodi Picoult
Not your usual courtroom drama from Jodi Picoult, but riveting nonetheless.
Sara
A Cold and Lonely Place by Sara J. Henry
I really enjoyed this novel. Troy is a fun and honest character that I can really relate to. The story was addictive and had several great twists; one which I thought I should have picked up on but did not. I am looking forward to Ms. Henry's next book.
Michael McAdam
Banished: Surviving My Years in the Westboro Baptist Church by Lauren Drain and Lisa Pulitzer
Books like this fascinate me; an escape from a cult-like religion or group and a tell-all. Sometimes with biographies, the author spends way too much time on the childhood before getting to the good stuff. Not so here. The author jumps right in as to how her family found the Westboro Baptist Church and their integration. I haven't gotten to her escape yet. It is a fascinating read. Highly recommended.
Debbie M
Dead Low Tide by Bret Lott
I had difficulty with this book. The contractions did not make sense, and I found myself constantly rereading passages to attempt to understand the actions. The various relationships were left unsolved. Is Unc the father and uncle of Huger? Are Huger's real father and stepfather brothers? I guess the plot and relationships were as cleat as that low tide mud. Too many holes in the story for me to enjoy. I do not believe I will read another book by Bret Lott.
Phyllis Holt
The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry by Rachel Joyce
This book points out the importance of not taking families and acquaintances for granted. It is important to show appreciation at the time it needs to be expressed. Don't wait until it is too late. We too often take those around us for granted and don't show our appreciation and love.
Vivian Taylor
Heart of Palm by Laura Lee Smith
Ms. Smith captured the ups and downs of small-town life, and one family's ability to deal with secrets, regret, guilt and forgiveness.
Fran O
Tempted (House of Night, Book 6) by P.C. Cast and Kristin Cast
The sixth installment of the "House of Night" series was pretty good. A bit repetitive of some of the other books in the series through the middle, but it picked up nicely at the end. I am liking the relationship between Stevie Rae and Rephaim. Interesting...
Marsha
Die A Stranger by Steve Hamilton
Hamilton writes about an ex-cop living in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Alex McKnight has a best friend, who is a member of the Ojibwa tribe and has recently disappeared. McKnight knows it must tie in with a recent crime wave in the area. When a stranger arrives in town, Alex becomes involved in the quest to find his friend before the crime syndicate does. Quite exciting.
Melanie S.
S.E.C.R.E.T by L. Marie Adeline
Having just finished a very emotionally disturbing book about the Armenian genocide, I grabbed this ARC copy I received a while back, hoping for something fast and easy. Definitely "reading light" and riding on the coattails of 50 Shades. Not really my genre of choice, but I did read this in a day. It's more "mommy porn". The story or characters are not nearly as engaging as those in the 50 Shades books. I was going to give it 3 stars just for being quick and mildly entertaining, but the end was just sooooo disappointing that I had to downgrade it to two stars. Onto something better...
Lindsey Hedrick
The Paris Wife by Paula McLain
A wonderful love story, and it's heartbreaking that it ended all too soon. I am starting A MOVEABLE FEAST tonight to get Hemingway's perspective of that time in his life.
Kathy Vallee
Copycat Killing by Sofie Kelly
I love this series its about a woman who moves to Minnesota to fix up a run down library for its reopening. This book is the third in the series, and what a great book! It has everything from humor to suspense to murder. Kathleen comes from out of town to pull it all together again for the library's birthday. Her two cats once again help her solve the two murders.
Margaret Ladue
The Lost Years by Mary Higgins Clark
I have read all of Mary Higgins Clark's books thus far. They are real page turners and keep me in suspense until the very end.
Barbara Strignano
The Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman
Good book, strong writing and disturbing; the kind of disturbing that stays with you. Interesting character studies. I won't be giving anything away in these comments. It's worth reading.
Kay McCaffery
Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption by Laura Hillenbrand
This is a great book I am reading with my book club. I might not have chosen to read it if someone hadn't suggested it, but I am so glad that I am reading it. Hard to imagine what all Louis Zamperini survived and the redemption he received.
Juli Lear
Dead Jitterbug by Victoria Houston
This book is one Victoria Houston's "Loon Lake Fishing" Mysteries. I have read several of them and always enjoy them. The books are funny, the characters engaging, and the setting is the north woods of Wisconsin.
Beth Mitchell
Shouting Won't Help: Why I--and 50 Million Other Americans--Can't Hear You by Katherine Bouton
Because I am hearing impaired and have a cochlear implant for one ear and a hearing aid for the other, reading Ms. Bouton's book has been interesting to me. I have underlined so many of her comments! Yes! That is just like what I have experienced!
Maxine Urso
Another Piece of My Heart by Jane Green
Our club is finishing it and will meet on Monday. I have spoken to a few members, and they agree, it is a very gripping story and they couldn't put it down. Kudos to Miss Green! We are looking forward to reading more of her books!
Bonnie Gluhanich
The Silence of Bonaventure Arrow by Rita Leganski
This novel is magic. It's ethereal, full of voodoo and hoodoo, has some of the best characters around and the setting is so real you can taste it. Great read.
Marie Ledin
The Shoemaker's Wife by Adriana Trigiani
Touching story of young boy and girl who meet in Italy and don't find one another again until they travel to America to either start a new life or help their family back home. The book is about their hard life as immigrants and how they make it with hard work, persistence and faith. Most interesting was their move to the Iron Range in Chisholm, Minnesota, the city where I grew up. Some of the establishments/businesses mentioned are still there.
Wendy Catalano
Touch & Go by Lisa Gardner
What an awesome book! I am a huge fan of Lisa Gardner and this novel doesn't disappoint. The story had me hooked (with all the twists and turns) from start to finish. Features Tessa Leoni from LOVE YOU MORE, who was a State Trooper and is now a Private Investigator. Justin and Libby Denbe have what seems to be the perfect life. A great marriage, a beautiful 15-year-old daughter Ashlyn and a lavished home in Boston's elite Back Bay neighborhood. Tessa is called in to investigate when the Denbes vanish without a trace. It appears they were abducted yet there are no witnesses, no ransom demands and no motive. Slowly the secrets start to unravel and betrayals come to light. An excellent psychological thriller!
Shawna S Thorup
The Burgess Boys by Elizabeth Strout
Ms. Strout gets better which each book! An amazing tale of the family ties that bind and sometimes suffocate us. Vivid characters stick with you long after the final pages. The only off-key element is an odd framing device; an unnamed woman and her mother bond in adulthood sharing and re-sharing gossip and memories about the Burgess family. The woman alludes to the action that will come and declares she will write the Burgess kids' story, which presumably is the book. The prelude feels unnecessary with the main story conveying the significance of this sad family within its small town and how none of them ever really escaped it. Wonderful, rich, and complex literary fiction!
Mary Adgate
The Comfort of Lies by Randy Susan Meyers
So far so good. I am really enjoying this book. Wish I had more time to read it faster. Would definitely recommend it to friends.
Lori
TransAtlantic by Colum McCann
I enjoyed this book even more than LET THE GREAT WORLD SPIN. Each section was intriguing on its own, and gave me insight into previously unfamiliar historical events. I found it interesting that the book ended up being tied together by the minor characters, which added to my feeling that the book was well thought out and beautifully written. I would recommend this to people who like Erik Larson’s books, and I think it would make a good choice for book discussion groups.
Denise Beierbach
Starting Now by Debbie Macomber
Too mild.
Norene Wittlin
The Yard by Alex Grecian
Excellent! Look forward to the next one.
Summer Grinstead
Nantucket Nights by Elin Hilderbrand
Very quick and light read. You could call it a beach read!
Patty Jester
Defending Jacob by William Landay
Could not put this book down; I read it in one long day. Love it! How far would you go to protect your child? Best book I have read in a long time.
Diane Pollock
Rethinking Money by Bernard Lietaer & Jacqui Dunne
Seems to claim to a lot more than it delivers, but does have some interesting concepts.
Carolyn A. Milliser
The Elegance Of The Hedgehog by Muriel Barbery & Alison Anderson
Renee Michel (as she describes herself) is a dumpy, but cultivated, self educated concierge of an exclusive Paris apartment building. Paloma Josse is a 12-year-old genius resident of the building. The two characters provide a double narrative of their lives, and how they view the tenants' in their everyday lives. The writing style was much too complex and disconnected. I wanted to stop reading. Although the story did not capture me as I had expected, I did find the bittersweet, satirical, sometimes humorous story telling of the tenants and the somewhat unbelievable Madame Michel and Paloma, engaging enough to make it to the end of the book, which was also the better part of the story. Sometimes plodding through is worth it.
Ann Horne
The Lady's Slipper by Deborah Swift
Really, a good book to enjoy.
Susan
Bad Blood by Dana Stabenow
This book was enjoyable, although it moved back and forth in time. The end was heart stopping, and I hope not permanent. I have enjoyed this entire series, and Kate Shugak is one of my favorite characters in mystery fiction.
Elaine Beierbach
Starting Now by Debbie Macomber
So-so.
Gabby Hayze
The Secret Of Annexe 3 by Colin Dexter
I got the impression reading this book that Colin Dexter writes to entertain himself much more than he does to entertain those of us who read his books. His inspector Morse is often insufferable, although there is a humor about him that keeps him from being simply detestable. The mystery in this novel was all over the place with thinly veiled attempts to confuse the reader rather than to provide genuine red herrings. I've read high praise for Dexter's books, but I won't be reading more of them.
Belva Wilkerson
Barefoot Season by Susan Mallery
Spring has me yearning to read books about the beach and summer! This is the first book in the "Blackberry Island" trilogy, and it does not disappoint. It is an easy read with a little romance, family dynamics, betrayal and general lessons in life. It had me longing to visit the inn and Blackberry Island. I recommend this book to anyone wanting to escape to a charming place and a wonderful story.
WALTER KRETZMANN
Men in Blue by W.E.B. Griffin
The book does a good job of taking you inside the police department and how they operate. It also explains the departments and how politics affect the live of the men in blue.
Dorothy Newmark
The Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman
This is a beautifully written book with great characters. When a childless couple in Australia find an infant and make the decision to keep her and to raise her as their own, it sets off a chain of events that effects many lives. The moral issues at the heart of the novel draws the reader in to question what their own actions might be. A great book discussion book!
Sandy McCullough
Solomon's Oak by Jo-Ann Mapson
SOLOMON'S OAK is the story of three people who have suffered losses that changed their lives forever: Glory Solomon, a young widow who struggles to hold on to her Central California farm; fourteen-year-old Juniper McGuire, who arrives on Glory's doorstep, pierced, tattooed, angry, and homeless; and Joseph Vigil, a former Albuquerque police officer now disabled and in constant pain, who comes to California to fulfill his dream of photographing the state's giant trees, including the two-hundred-year-old Solomon's Oak on Glory's farm. In this deeply felt, wise, and gritty novel, these three broken souls will find in each other an unexpected comfort, and a second chance to see the miracles of everyday life.
Judy O.
Me Before You by Jojo Moyes
What a beautiful story! A young woman becomes a caregiver to a bitter, 35-year-old man, who has become a quadriplegic in a terrible accident. Her life is changed in ways that she would never have imagined. A love story that is timeless.
Wendy Catalano
Platinum by Jeffe Kennedy
Hot! Hot! Hot! PLATINUM is loaded with erotica with a bit of contemporary romance thrown in as the story unfolds. Art gallery owner Althea has a boring boyfriend and leads a very unexciting life until bad boy biker Steel walks through her front door. He asks to have his art displayed but Althea feels it would offend her conservative clientele. Instead, she agrees to rent him the basement to use as his studio. He seduces prim and proper Althea into becoming his model and helps her not only to come out of her shell, but to realize that it's totally acceptable to be yourself and not be who everyone expects you to be.
Sharon Elliott-Fox
The Secret Keeper by Kate Morton
A great read! The story moves seamlessly between 2011 and 1941, and between the characters of both eras, as the author slowly reveals the secrets that Dorothy Nicolson has kept for all those years. We read of the blitz of London as Laurel Nicolson, oldest daughter of Dorothy, returns home when she learns her elderly mother is dying. Realizing there are things she does not know about this woman she has known all her life, Laurel seeks to learn what secrets her mother has carried all these years --- not out of some strange curiosity, but hoping to help her find a much desired peace before she dies. Twists and turns and a wonderful surprise at the end! Glorious!
Marsha
East of the Sun by Julia Gregson
It is a charming and insightful story of two girls and one young man who are chaperoned on their trip to India from England. The chaperone, who is only slightly older than the teens, needs the money and wants to return to her birthplace in India to locate a chest her parents left for her many years ago. Their friendship and travels are the fascinating parts of the story. One girl is going to meet her fiance, who she barely knows, and the other is her bridesmaid, who hopes to land a husband or be returned to England in disgrace. The boy turns out to be very disturbed and causes continually problems for them. We learn a great deal about the British rule of India and the society that took place there.
Pat Lieberman
The Marriage Bargain by Jennifer Probst
I give it a 4; tale of a marriage of convenience for both protagonists. They go into this knowing it is only a temporary marriage as it would never work out for them on a permanent basis. Billionaire Nick hasn't had a good childhood, and marriage and kids are not in the cards for him. Alexa grew up with Nick and he shattered her heart years ago. I loved this book and the entire series.
Denise Beierbach
Starting Now by Debbie Macomber
So-so for me.
Sharron
A Week in Winter by Maeve Binchy
A group of strangers come together in a B&B on cliff in western Ireland in winter. Each chapter tells a different guest's story and how they came to be at the inn, but of course, there is interaction among the guests despite each story being unique. Binchy in her final novel still knew how to tell a captivating story and made you want to find this place for your own getaway.
Sandra Furlotte
Performance Anomalies by Victor Robert Lee
This is a fast-paced and excellent thriller with a unique hero. Move over James Bond and make way for Cono.
Melina Smith
The Chaperone by Laura Moriarty
THE CHAPERONE is a terrific novel about the life of a woman who chaperones Louise Brooks to New York City for a summer in the 1920s. The story that unravels is both shocking and compelling. It wasn't what I expected at all, but I had a hard time putting this book down!
Jan Glenn
The Last Child by John Hart
This book was interesting and unpredictable. It made it feel like my real life was interfering with my book reading. There were many twists to the book and I really found that I couldn't put it down. If you like suspenseful mysteries, this one is a must!
Danika Robinson
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
A real page turner! I could not put this book down!
Allison Gardner
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
Now I understand why this book is a classic!
Sheila Trask
Flight Behavior by Barbara Kingsolver
This is amazing stuff. I have loved Kingsolver in the past (THE POISONWOOD BIBLE, especially) but also get kind of cranky with her self-righteousness (ANIMAL, VEGETABLE, MIRACLE). I knew this one also had an environmental theme, so I braced myself. No need. It is a beautiful work of art. Every sentence elegantly captures multiple levels of meaning, and somehow she manages to make the printed word translate into visually stunning nature scenes that take your breath away. I also love her take on the midlife crisis here, as the main character tries to figure out what to do with her life after ten years of marriage and two kids.
Lara Crawford
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
This book is amazing and I really enjoyed the point of view the book is told from.
Jayme G
A Gathering of Old Men by Ernest J. Gaines
Though it is a short novel, barely 200 pages, it packs a powerful punch as it portrays the need of a few elderly black men to finally stand up to the injustices that they felt living with Jim Crow. The raw emotion and dignity that is felt as one by one they tell their stories about the horror of being black in the deep south during the 30’s, 40’s and 50’s is gut-wrenching. There are so many lessons in this book --- letting go of fears, standing up to injustice, and asking when does something wrong become something right?
Gaines does an amazing job capturing the essence of the people living in a small parish in Louisiana who will all make choices that will shape the direction of their lives. I highly recommend this book.
Helen Duncan
The Racketeer by John Grisham
This plot is so intricate, with so many unexpected turns, that it really kept me going. I thought it was one of Grisham's best. I didn't give it 5 stars because, after all the outstanding plot twists, the ending felt a bit flat. Still, it's a great read and I heartily recommend it.
Janet P Bedell
The Fever Tree by Jennifer McVeigh
I loved this book! I always try to identify with a character and I could easily do so with Frances. She is strong without even knowing it. I loved watching her develop from a totally spoiled young women into a women who finally gets it! I also loved that it was set in Africa. Being lucky enough to visit South Africa, I could "see" every location and re-experience my time there. A must read for individuals and book clubs!
Margaret Rioux
Call the Midwife by Jennifer Worth
This is volume 1 of Worth's memoirs, upon which the PBS/BBC series "Call the Midwife" is based. All 3 volumes are beautifully written and really bring 1950's East End London to life. What wonderful women the nurses and sisters were! Also makes you truly grateful for 21st Century medicine.
Kathy Iwasaka
Night Watch by Linda Fairstein
Although I am a huge fan of her previous books, and enjoyed visiting old friends from earlier books in the series, this one felt different. It felt like it was written by another person, and the main character, Alexandra Cooper, became snappish and simpering in turn, both very unattractive and unAlex-like, when dealing with her beau. Overall, I was disappointed.
Jean Lesslie
Airtight by David Rosenfelt
When one tip leads New Jersey policeman Luke Somers to Steven Gallagher as the killer of a judge, Steven's brother who raised him is certain that he is innocent, and he won’t rest until he sets the record straight. He forces Luke to help him by burying Luke's brother where he cannot be found. This is a very tense page turner with several twists and turns. I have not liked some of Rosenfelt's standalones but this one is really good.
Jean L
Pronto by Elmore Leonard
If you enjoy the "Justified" series on FX, you'll like this book which was a forerunner. Much of the story takes place in Italy.
Peggy Niles
Me Before You by Jojo Moyes
I laughed out loud and cried real tears reading this both funny and heartbreaking book about a quadriplegic man contemplating suicide and the woman hired by his mother to be his companion. Lou is the young woman still living at home with her parents, sister and the sister's illegitimate son. Will is the older man who before his accident was a ruthless business man with no romantic attachment to the beautiful woman he was living with. It is Lou's job to try to make Will believe that life is worth living. Lou believes that by taking Will out of the house on various excursions he will change his mind. As can be imagined, each outing was a trial and sometimes comedic experience. Unfortunately, love does not always conquer all.
Robin McKay
A Name Like Thunder by Lee Goff
A NAME LIKE THUNDER is a very powerful Christian book. It tells the story of Len and Elizabeth, a very devout couple who reach out to others, spreading their knowledge and love of the Lord. Elizabeth and Len welcome a beautiful baby daughter into their lives, but this child is no ordinary child. She has been sent by God and her message will change the world. As Len, Elizabeth and their friends grow stronger in their faith, Satan is watching and plotting as well. He has his own minion, Kirkland, who is being groomed to destroy this child of God. This is a book of good verses evil of angels verses demons. It is a powerful reminder of how God is in charge of everything around us.
Jean L
Kinsey and Me by Sue Grafton
This book contains some very good short stories which I enjoyed tremendously. I believe that I enjoyed it even better than the alphabet series.
Jean L
The Supremes at Earl's-All-You-Can-Eat by Edward Kelsey Moore
If you like a book where you can alternately laugh then cry, this one's for you. Three women are friends from childhood through all the trials of growing up and raising families of their own. They are the "Supremes" who meet at the EAYCE. They are there for their friends no matter what.
Jean L
Starvation Lake by Bryan Gruley
The book starts rather too slowly and has too much hockey for my taste but it is a good story well told. It keeps the reader turning pages to learn the secrets of this small town. There are surprises, twists, and turns. I thought the last half was much better than the first half.
Debra K. Ucci
Home Front by Kristan Hannah
I loved the book start to finish. Hannah has a knack for pulling you into the characters early on. This book is very timely and I learned a lot about post traumatic stress syndrome along the way.
Ann Marie Feitt
The Water Theatre by Lindsay Clarke
This was a very different read. The writing was beautiful and the story complex but good. Takes place in Umbria, Italy.
Linda Reck
Bossypants by Tina Fey
It is interesting to see the way Tina Fey's mind works. It's an extremely funny book, and it's not every day that I read something that actually makes me laugh out loud.
Gabby Hayze
Diary Of A Mad Fat Girl by Stephanie McAfee
Every now and then I love a good chick-lit read, and this was one of my favorites. I always thought that when I grew up I wanted to be Grandma Mazur, but now maybe I'd like to be Gloria Peacock. The characters in this novel are all well written --- the villains are especially well done, and when justice comes it's usually hilarious. I wish I'd known someone like Ace Jones when I was a little younger. It would have been a real hoot to have some adventures with her. This one has it all: love, hate, thwarted love, true love, and plenty of pizza for everyone.
penney kolb
Under the Dome by Stephen King
After I saw an ad for an upcoming TV minseries based on UNDER THE DOME, I remembered that I had it on the shelves. I got so thoroughly absorbed in it that I zipped through this enormous tome in three days. It's a very good story that has some echoes of THE STAND also by King as well as THE LORD OF THE FLIES by William Golding. There was quite a multitude of characters and many were underdeveloped, but it was such a good story that my imaginnation filled them out. Quite an enjoyable read.
Susan Stack
Blue Heaven by C.J. Box
This was a very suspenseful book and I could not stop reading it. The ending was kind of sad but overall it kept my interest throughout.
Muriel Logan
The Storyteller by Jodi Picoult
I think this is one of Jodi Picoult's best books, and I have read most of them. The characters range from a former Nazi soldier and SS guard at a concentration camp, to the granddaughter of a concentration camp survivor, and the Polish grandmother who survived. Much of the story is told through flashback to the 1940's and there is also a story within a story. There are lessons to be learned through the gripping story being told. I recommend the book highly.
Sandy Daily
Cast On, Kill Off by Maggie Sefton
This is a most enjoyable knitting mystery. The reader feels as if she really know the characters.
Kathryn
Garden of Stones by Sophie Littlefield
I read this book in two days and found it to be an inspiring story. Based on 2 time periods, the 1940s during the internment of Japanese Americans, and 1978, when a man is killed (or is it suicide?) near the home of one of the women interned as a child. Her daughter takes up the mystery. It is told in a non-linear format that keeps you guessing until it ends. If you liked HOTEL ON THE CORNER OF BITER AND SWEET by Jamie Ford, this gives more insight into the internment.
A. Rowe
The Snow Child by Eowyn Ivey
A beautiful, magical story based on an old Russian fairytale. I can't remember the last time I cared this much about the characters of a book. This will certainly be one of my favourite reads of the year.
Kathryn
Looking for Yesterday by Marcia Muller
Reading #30 in this series --- and I have read most of them since "discovering" Sharon McCone about 20 years ago --- is like a visit to catch up with an old friend. I am never disappointed. This book returns to the linear format as narrated by Sharon, after several that were not. As has occurred before, social issues come up, this time gun control, which she and Hy discuss briefly.
Kathryn
Black Skies by Arnaldur Indridason
I look forward to Indridason's books and wish they could be translated from Icelandic to English faster. Sometimes (not often) the English (i.e. British) translation needs use of a dictionary as words are used that are quite unfamiliar in North America (even to those who may have read British authors).This is another in the detective series, though Erlender is still away, so his younger and less talented associate, Sigurdur Oli, makes his way through an relatively simple investigation that leads to something that may or may not be involved in the first.
Gloria Riffie
Another Piece of My Heart by Jane Green
This book is very well written and grabs you from the first page. The story has many twists and turns with much heartache and maturing and amazing growth. I'm so glad I read it. this was Green's first book I read and I will read more.
Jean Mess
XO by Jeffery Deaver
This book keeps you interested to the end. It is about a country singer and her fried who is a CBI agent. I told my husband I knew who the murderer was right away, but after all the turns and twists I had to admit that I was wrong.
Carol Weigel
Speaking From Among the Bones by Alan Bradley
Each of the Flavia de Luce books was a pleasure to read, SPEAKING FROM AMONG THE BONES is the latest. Can't wait for the next in the series. Amusing and witty.
Lynn W
Purity in Death by J. D. Robb
There are many reasons I would not normally read this kind of book, but when it's picked as a book club selection, what could I do? Read and enjoy, of course! I have yet to read a Nora Roberts book that I did not like. How does she do it?!!!
elizabeth khaled
Dream Lake by Lisa Kleypas
This was a very cute contemporary romance. It's probably more for fans that like Debbie Macomber, not 50 SHADES OF GREY. I liked it a lot even though I'm more of a fan of Kleypas' regency romance. Zoe is co-owner and chef of a B&B. She brings warmth and feeling back to Alex (one of the brothers introduced in previous books). Alex is cold, distant, and focused on his work as a construction company owner. He is reeling from his divorce, and drinking away the pain. Zoe is coming to terms with her divorce, and feels bad about herself because her husband whom she loved deeply is gay. Great book.
Gil Harris
A Test of Wills by Charles Todd
A very good novel. It's the first of the "Ian Rutledge" series. I am looking forward to reading more of the series. In this story, Ian has just returned from the army after World War I, and goes back to his job of police inspector. A prominent person has been shot, and all the evidence points to a war hero. There is pressure on Ian because it would be embarrasing to the Crown if the hero is found guilty. Lots of twists and turns and a very surprising ending.
Holly Biggs
The Lazarus Machine by Paul Crilley
In an alternate 1895, where steam and Tesla-powered computers are everywhere, robots powered by human souls roam the streets, and the Ministry, a secretive government agency, seeks to control everything in the name of the Queen. Main characters, Tweed and Octavia, are on a mission to save their parents from a murderous masked gang who seem to have ties to Sherlock Holmes.
Andrea Arbie
The Storyteller by Jodi Picoult
A wonderful book, that promises to stay with you. I loved the story within a story device, thought that the characters, excepting the employees of the bakery rang very true and the vampire story in a story that saves Minka in the camps was worth a book of it's own. In baseball parlance, this one is out of the park! The little touches, the cinnamon chocolate roll, the kneading of the bread, Sage and her fear of the day, all great touches making up a super read.
Wendy Hampton
Archangels: Rise of the Jesuits by Janet Tavakoli
Interesting story of the take over of the Vatican by the Jesuits reflecting the different factions within the Vatican. It gives theories of why there is abuse and corruption within the Catholic Church.
Anne Berger
The Tine In Between by Maria Duenas
Excellent and captivating historical fiction. Wonderful writing and great plot and realistic characters portrayed during a crucial era.
Lynette Reagan
The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry by Rachel Joyce
Wow! How Joyce got so much between these pages is amazing. I laughed, cried, gasped, sighed and ultimately --- loved it! Harold leaves his home to mail a letter to an old friend who is dying and the rest is ... a walking pilgrimage of 500+ miles. The people, the places and the emotions are beautifully explored.
ellie lewis
The Shoemaker's Wife by Adriana Trigiani
Captivating and special. A beautifully written novel with memorable characters and a fabulous setting.
Susan F. Braun
Stolen by Daniel Palmer
This book is a roller coaster ride from beginning to end. Palmer's story of the struggle of a young couple to surmount the obstacles thrown in their path when faced with the necessity for catastrophic care for the wife will resonate with readers everywhere. While they undertake the world of insurance companies and use extreme measures readers will empathize and question if they would take the same steps if given the chance. This is Palmer at his best.
Lori Eden
The Heart is a Lonely Hunter by Carson McCullers
This book was a little hard to get into. There are many characters and their lives are entertwined by one, a deaf mute. In the end it is worth reading. This is a good book club book with many topics to discuss.
David Gibb
On the Island by Tracey Garvis-Graves
This one is one of my top reads ever. No complaint whatsoever. It is unique and unforgetable story of survival and love. Seriously, don't shy away from this one!
Lynn W
The Forgotten Garden by Kate Morton
A wonderful, long book covering a four-generation mystery across two continents. The first Kate Morton book I have read, but it won't be my last. I will recommend this book to all my friends.
Coral Harrison
Deadly Stakes by J. A. Jance
Jance has several characters she writes about.This is about Ali Reynolds who is a police academy-trained former reporter. She is contacted to investigate the murder of gold-digging divorcee. After many ins and outs Ali helps solve the mystery. I like the way J. A. Jance writes so always enjoy her stories. They are always mysteries and I don't generally figure out who "did it" until the end.
Louise Pledge
A Night on Moon Hill by Tanya Parker Mills
A college professor & popular author has her life in order. In her forties, she lives alone and likes it that way. She is quite aloof towards others, when a shock attacks her complacency and brings about major changes in her life. So well written: beautiful, deep, flowing poetry; a story that pulls you in and holds you there; a great understanding and portrayal of Asperger's; believable characters. I hated for it to end and still find myself thinking about it two weeks later. In fact, I bought another book today to give to someone else. I highly recommend this to anyone.
Lou
When Lightning Strikes by Brenda Novak
Brenda has another hit in this first book of her "Whiskey Creek" series. A prominent publicist has fired a spoiled, temperamental (but much adored) actor. He gets vengeance by taking away her best clients,so then her co-worker, with good intent, retaliates by spreading a nasty lie about the actor. This action backfires and hurts both parties. They must find a way to control the damage done. I was a little disappointed that it contained both sex and some offensive language, but it didn't change my opinion of the story.
Karen Rush
Palisades Park by Alan Brennert
Alan Brennert won me over with MOLOKA'I so I was eager to read another novel by this multitalented author (+ tv producer + screenwriter). In PALISADES PARK, he pays tribute to the renowned Palisades Amusement Park in New Jersey. I was transported to the time and place of this legendary park during a volatile period in history and I felt invested in the story and its cast of characters. I did not want it to end. Wonderfully written.
Lynn Clifford
Z: A Novel of Zelda Fitzgerald by Therese Anne Fowler
Reading this book transports me back to the days of THE GREAT GATSBY.
Beth O'Connor
Z:A Novel Of Zelda Fitzgerald by Therese Anne Fowler
Love the book so far!
Antoinette
The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss
This was a great big story --- the first in a trilogy --- number 2 is out as well. Other than THE HOBBIT, I have never read a fantasy book. After this book, I will definitely read many more. It was a super fun read. Great characters, great story! I highly recommend this book!
Antoinette
The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck
I am so glad I had to reread this book for my classics group. I really did not like it when I read it as a teenager. Boy, was I wrong. This book is exhausting. Really, nothing good ever happens. This poor family is constantly beaten down, but they persevere, especially Ma, who becomes the strength and backbone for them all. A very inspirational book.
Antoinette
One Good Turn by Kate Atkinson
Really enjoyed this book.Very clever -- I was amazed at how the author connected all the people in the book. I plan to read more by this author! Highly recommend it!
Debbie M
The Wedding Dress by Rachel Hauck
The story is endearing, but too simple and unbelievable at times. The story of a wedding dress designed by a black designer and magically worn by four brides, with three of them related to one another. The flipping from bride to bride and story to story became tedious and confusing at times. The relationship of the first bride and the fourth bride is revealed in many clues throughout the story. The last relationship seemed very stiff and emotionless. A story such as this would ensue a crying spell, but this emotion never presented itself.
Melissa Monahan
Rebecca by Daphne Du Maurier
Classic tale with romance, suspense and a little bit of spooky thrown in. I read this book very quickly and enjoyed it very much.
Marsha
Robert Parker's Lullaby by Ace Atkins
I thought with the death of Parker that Spenser would be gone forever but Ace Atkins has so smoothly moved into the voice of Spenser that you will never notice the difference. Spenser is coming the the rescue of a 14-year old girl who is looking for her mother's killer after four years. Someone is in prison for the murder but the girl knows it was not him. Spenser is a push-over for the tough child who is living in the projects and almost single-handedly taking care of her twin sisters. He and Hawk go after the bad guys with the girl watching over them. Great fun.
Erica Cofer
The White Pearl by Kate Furnivall
Anything Kate Furnivall write is exceptional. I have read all of her books!
Susan Currant
The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry by Rachel Joyce
A retired gentleman receives a letter from an old friend. He writes a reply but instead of putting his letter in the post box he sets out on a journey to deliver the message himself. There are a lot of unexpected twists and turns to his journey.
Jane Monahan
Until I Say Goodbye by Susan Spencer-Wendel
If I had not recieved this book as a prize in the Word of Mouth contest, I would never have chosen it. A dear friend of mine died this past year with ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease) and I was afraid this would be too sad of a read. I was mistaken. Susan Spencer-Wendel tells the warm, funny and so personal story of the first year after her diagnosis with this horrible disease. Her spirit shines through on each page as she deals with (and helps everyone else deal with) what is happening to her. With loving friends and family she lives a year of travel, discovery and, yes, even joy. Her honesty and courage will speak to you long after you turn the last page. Don't be afraid to read this one!
Lori
The Dinner by Herman Koch
This is a brilliantly-written book which I couldn't put down. The first half of the book is fascinating on its own, but the real intensity happens in the second half of the book, making one realize how clever and deceptive the author was at the beginning of the book. This was a very disturbing and gripping story with lots of moral issues. I believe it would be a perfect book for a book discussion group.
Sharon Lumb
Maus and Maus II by Art Spiegelman
My book club decided to read a graphic novel. I was concerned because the last "graphic novel" I read was probably Casper the Friendly Ghost. I read Maus and its sequel Maus II. I would suggest reading both because the sequel answers the questions remaining at the end of Maus. This is the story of Hungarian Jewish family and the tragedy that awaited them in WWII. The Jews were innocent mice and the captors were cats. This is a autobiographical novel and the story switches back and forth from from WWII to the present time. Incredibly moving. A single frame explains what would take several pages of prose to describe. It won the Pulitzer Prize and was well deserving. Highly recommended.
Renee Booker
Guilt by Jonathan Kellerman
If you like mystery and trying to figure what is going to happen this is the great novel to read. I love how simple a story was but it took a long times to figure out who did the murder. Very good reading.
Denise Beierbach
Starting Now by Debbie Macomber
I have enjoyed all her books.
Judy O.
Garden of Stones by Sophie Littlefield
This is an interesting topic about the internment of Japanese-Americans during WWII. The camp, Manzanar, was in California, and thousands of people were sent there for a several year period of time. The main characters of this story are Lucy Takeda, her mother Miyako, and her daughter Patty. The ending seemed rather rushed and improbable, but I enjoyed it for the most part.
Marie Ledin
Eyes Wide Open by Andrew Gross
Good book, fast moving. A young son supposedly commits suicide but the parents want this investigated further, and his uncle helps out. A hologram is found at the site of his death that raises questions later on in the investigation. Parts of this book remind me of the Charles Manson cult story. Won this from an Andrew Gross sweepstakes and will read more of this author.
Erin Cook
Man in the Blue Moon by Michael Morris
Actually 3 1/2 stars so far. Very good possibility of turning into 4. Small town Florida, strong women and enough antagonists to keep things very interesting. Looking forward to see who wins!
Bobby Title
The Man in the White Sharkskin Suit by Lucette Lagnado
Not only does Lucette Lagnado offer an amazing story of her family's history as Jews living in Cairo during the turmoil that roiled the middle east when the nation of Israel was being formed, she brings to the reader what the modern-day immigrant to the United States faces in accommodating and adjusting to an entirely new culture. Most of us have a vague recollection of Israel's birth, but we have less knowledge of just how many families were exiled from their birth countries with little more than the clothes on their back. That the author is a professional journalist here in the U.S. now insures that she knows what she's talking about: the Man in the White Sharkskin Suit was her father.
Jackie Ranaldo
How to Get Filthy Rich in Rising Asia by Moshin Hamid
Great structure... the author weaves a fiction story into a self-help book format. I found it to be creative and intriguing...
Sandy McCullough
The Midwife's Confession by Diane Chamberlain
Dear Anna,
What I have to tell you is difficult to write, but I know it will be far more difficult for you to hear, and I'm so sorry…
The unfinished letter is the only clue Tara and Emerson have to the reason behind their close friend Noelle's suicide. Everything they knew about Noelle—her calling as a midwife, her passion for causes, her love for her friends and family—described a woman who embraced life.
Yet there was so much they didn't know. With the discovery of the letter and its heartbreaking secret, Noelle's friends begin to uncover the truth about this complex woman who touched each of their lives—and the life of a desperate stranger—with love and betrayal, compassion and deceit. Best Book Ever!
Marcia Sailer
Major Pettigrew's Last Stand by Helen Simonson
This is a great book if you love the English. The story evolves around Major Pettigrew and his coveted Churchill rifles and his developing relationship with Pakistani shopkeeper Jasmina Ali. Against the odds, this strange couple come together and build a relationship which the small-minded community and family obligations almost destroy. The English and Pakistani families, and what it means to be a family in their cultures, are wonderfully portrayed. Every character is developed clearly, including the supporting characters. The English wit is wonderful. This is a book that made one want to keep reading. We read it for book discussion and it was full of discussion topics.
Amanda Merrell
Roses by Leila Meacham
Wonderful book. One of the best stories I have ever read. Family saga that spans about 100 years.
Jill Porco
A Land More Kind Than Home by Wiley Cash
I think this will become an American classic a la To Kill a Mockingbird. Much happens in this fast read of a book, so much so that I need to re-read parts of it again before my book group meets to discuss this one. The first person points of view of Jess, the midwife, and the sheriff are essential to understanding the story. Highly recommended.
Amy Nash
The Hundred Year Old Man Who Climbed Out a Window and Disappeared by Jonas Jonasson
Crazy characters a la Forest Gump, crazy enough to perhaps have really happened. Very fun.
Michael McAdam
Kinsey and Me by Sue Grafton
I have always loved the Kinsey Milhone books. Sue Grafton has such a great writing style - which has made up for some lucklustre plot lines over the series. The short stories are fun with the same writing style... even if they wrap up a little too easily at times. Some of them are great! Thumbs up!
Lori Bednaz
The Deep End of the Ocean by Jacquelyn Mitchard
Fantastic book - can't wait to read part 2 "No Time to Wave Good-bye".
Amy Fullmer
The Art of Hearing Heartbeats by Jan-Philipp Sendker
Loved this book. I loved how at first at the front of the book the author tells of how he came up with the idea. His son and him play a game with hearing heartbeats. Love it! This is such an amazing love story. How love can keep two people together though so many years of being apart. I feel bad at times for the father leaving his family to go back to his past life. I feel bad for his daughter. Yet his story is so moving. Great book. Highly recommended.
Rita Bulington
Daring Greatly by Brene Brown
This is non-fiction, but that certainly does not mean it is not engaging and thought-provoking. Brown has led me to redefine words such as 'shame', 'guilt' and 'vulnerable'. The book is broad and encouraging. It is one that I will keep and come back to again and again.
Wendy Zuckerberg
Wild by Cheryl Strayed
I'm more of a 4 star hotel vacationer than a camper but this book made me want to explore.
Linda Chapin
The Kitchen House by Kathleen Grissom
This book grabbed me from the beginning. It's one I kept thinking about long after I had finished reading it. It's a compelling story that draws you in from start to finish. It's been a long time since I have enjoyed a book as much as this. I highly recommend The Kitchen House.
Jane Petrich
11-22-1963 by Stephen King
A challenging book....but a great "what if" discussion book.
Esther Vandergugten
Escape from Camp 14 by Blaine Harden
A tragic story of one man's life and escape from a concentration camp. Difficult to read when you realize that this atrocity is happen right now.
Tessa B C
Pomegranate Soup by Marsha Mehran
Three sisters flee Tehran and find hope in a café in Ballinacroagh Ireland. The novel includes some magical realism, which I usually enjoy. However, it was not so captivating as I'd hoped. I liked it, but didn't love it.
Richard N B
Bank Shot by Donald E Westlake
The master of the comic crime caper strikes again! Dortmunder may be the best "planner" of crimes, but if anything can go wrong with his plans, it will.
Tessa B C
The Sisters Brothers by Patrick deWitt
deWitt has written a wonderful take on the traditional Western. I’m hardly an expert on the genre, but I really enjoyed this book, which reminded me of Donald Westlake’s comic crime capers. The main reason I don’t give it more stars is the narration by Eli. He relates the story with a nearly flat affect, if that’s possible to do in writing. In some places this device works wonderfully to lend humor to the tale, but much of the time I found myself just wondering when I was going to really get engaged in the story. I was curious about what was going to happen, but I didn’t really care what was going to happen. Still, I’m glad I read it and I might recommend it, especially to my brother and others who love Westerns.
Susan Miller
After the Rain by Karen White
This is a story set in a small town you would like to visit, populated by people you would love to know. It was easy to grow attached to the characters and I didn't want the story to end. Sweet and satisfying with a happy ending!
Laura Beierbach
Starting Now by Debbie Macomber
A quick and easy read.
Ellen Wehle
The Newlyweds by Nell Freudenberger
Nice to read a book about people who live real lives, rather than the usual main characters: Special Ops agents and/or psychopathic killers. I also liked immigrant Amina's honesty about her sole ambition in life being to marry an American. However, what kept me from loving this was the lack of conflict. George, the American husband, is pretty bland -- Amina simply goes through one scene after another, barely struggling to adapt to her new life. Too tame, in the end.
Patricia Askins
Life After Life by Kate Atkinson
I already liked Kate Atkinson's Jackson Brody books, so I was sure I would like her newest. I wasn't prepared for how much I liked it. I don't like telling too much about it because I don't like spoiling it for others. This book is almost like reading a book of short stories but they are all connected. So very good this is one I don't want to end. But since it is a big book I can continue to enjoy it for a while longer.
Andrea O'Brien
Until Tuesday: A Wounded Warrior and the Golden Retriever Why Saved Him by Luis Carlos Montalvan
Loved this book - found it moving and uplifting!
Melissa Ferr
Gone with a Handsomer Man by Michael Lee West
Have enjoyed Michael Lee West and was looking forward to reading another.
Marsha
Paris A Love Story by Kati Marton
Marton is a journalist and author who shares her memories of Paris. As a young student she fell in love with the city, she married Peter Jennings which whom she had two children. After her divorce from Jennings, she fell in love with Holbrooke in Paris and after his sudden death, she returned to Paris to reflect on her life. She shares many interesting events with us. It is full of famous people who became part of her interesting life.
Lynn H
Tigers in Red Weather by Liza Klaussmann
I enjoyed the way this book was written. The book has 5 parts, each from the prospective of one of the 5 main characters. The time periods slightly overlap and/or have recollections of the past, however, it is written so that you don’t feel it is repetitive. You are provided with additional information and new insights with each character’s section. I actually found myself having “a-ha moments” when being able to link two prospectives of one event together. It is slow in parts though which is one reason that I am giving it a 3. The other being that I found the amount of alcohol use throughout the book to be over the top and thus annoying. I understand that it adds to the dysfunctionality of the characters but it seems overstated.
Cheryl Cyrus
Beyond Belief: My Secret Life Inside Scientology and Harrowing Escape by Jenna Miscavige Hill
Good story. Not great writing, but it is autobiographical/memoir. Some of the chapters were too detailed, but I see why later in the book in describing a lot of these concepts, it's difficult to get what's going on without the detail to a certain extent. Wished there was more follow-up info on her Mom & Dad.
Crystal Blackburn
I Hate Everyone...Starting With Me by Joan Rivers
Funny. Written just like Joan speaks.
Carla Carlson
Bloodline: A Sigma Force Novel by James Rollins
James Rollins will do it right every time! Sigma Force is back in full swing with a not to be put down action/adventure/mystery novel. The pieces have been set and board is being played - the Guild has now taken steps above and beyond your imagination. How high and how far back is this group - let me say it can surprise you and then again with the way the world is today, it might not. Secrets will be uncovered leaving more questions (hoping for another Sigma book) for another adventure.In Bloodline, the president's daughter is kidnapped - is she the key or the unborn child that she carries. I find that Mr. Rollins has the reader not only enthralled, entertained, but also left with questions about society, science, and morality.
Amanda Pape
The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
I'd forgotten how powerful this book was! I first read it in 2005, and listened to the audiobook this time. Hosseini does an excellent job reading his own work, and it's wonderful to have a reader who knows exactly how to pronounce the Farsi and Dari words he sprinkles in the novel. Besides providing fascinating insights into life in Afghanistan and for Afghan refugees in America during the period from 1975 to 2001, THE KITE RUNNER is also an exploration of betrayal and "a way to be good again," of the relationships between fathers and sons, and of the meaning of friendship. Highly recommended.
Raylene Wauda
The House of Silk by Anthony Horowitz
The Arthur Conan Doyle Estate chose Anthony Horowitz to write a new Sherlock Holmes novel. It is London, 1890, 221B Baker Street. Sherlock Holmes and Dr. John Watson find themselves drawn into an extraordinary world of opium dens and a boy's orphange where boys are rented to wealthy customers. Horowitz gives much attention to detail, and he is able to emulate Conan Doyle's "voice" and meticulous style. The conceit of the book is that the story was written down by Watson a hundred years ago, but it was too horrible to publish at that time and was hidden away--until now.
Fran O'H
The Blue Orchard by Jackson Taylor
The author's vivid descriptions truly capture the time and flair of this storyline. The characters are rich, multidimensional, and layered. All of this comes together to make for a great read! I am glad I got to read this book.
Gail Anastasio
Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel
This book was well researched but I felt it was too lengthy. There were so many characters and the use of the pronoun made it confusing at times as to who the speaker was. I would have enjoyed it more in a shorter format.
Pam MacCready
The Storyteller by Jodi Piccoult
This is Piccoult's best book yet. She makes the characters come to life, skillfully weaving the tale of each individual, damaged by the battering of life. Especially poignant is the tale of Minka, a holocaust survivor who never revealed the story of all the atrocities she witnessed until her final days. In typical Piccoult fashion, she goes back & forth betweeen her character's voices to change perspective & keep the reader's interest. Her description of what the Jewish families went through in this terrible time is amazingly moving. She makes the reader live it!
Michaelene
The Orchardist by Amanda Coplin
WE had a lively discussion for 3.5 hours as there were so many good points in the novel. We especially like the slowness and tact that Talmadge used and his learn by rote experiences with the complexities of women.
Karen Keener
How To Be Lost by Amanda Eyre Ward
I read this a while ago - I still think about the mother who lost her daughter and how she searched every picture in magazines tryting to find her. The book is about one of the missing girls sisters who searches for her sister from a picture her mother had taken from a magazine and the mother believes her daughter is in the audience - about 20 years after she was taken.
Very memorable and touching book. It's been out for a few years but well worth the read.
Francisca E B
The Last Tortilla and Other Stories by Sergio Troncoso
3*** for the collection as a whole, but a couple of the stories merit 4.5**** Troncoso gives us stories of Mexican-American life along the US/Mexico border, but also stories that will speak to all of us. He covers universal themes of love, death, coming-of-age and family life, but also touches on the clash between Mexicans living in America vs those still in Mexico, and the difficulty faced by young Latinos who don’t speak Spanish but don’t feel the American mainstream either. My favorite story is probably THE GARDENER, wherein an elderly widow tricks her equally aged gardener into accepting her invitation to share her home.
Tessa B C
Gone With the Wind by Margaret Mitchell
This is SUCH a good book! More than just a love story, it explores Scarlett's maturation from a spoiled child to a strong woman. I listened to the book on CD performed by Linda Stephens.
Sandy McCullough
Skipping Christmas by John Grisham
John Grisham turns a satirical eye on the overblown ritual of the festive holiday season, and the result is Skipping Christmas, a modest but funny novel about the tyranny of December 25. Grisham's story revolves around a typical middle-aged American couple, Luther and Nora Krank. On the first Sunday after Thanksgiving they wave their daughter Blair off to Peru to work for the Peace Corps, and they suddenly realize that "for the first time in her young and sheltered life Blair would spend Christmas away from home." Cute.
Arlita Harris
Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand
Unbroken is extremely well written. Although I found days on the raft and in the POW camp to be painful, the end of the story made the tediousness of enduring that pain worthwhile. It's an inspiration and I can't wait for the discussion at this month's book discussion group - especially since our members lived through WWII.
Robin McKay
The Book of Spies by Gayle Lynds
Jonathan Ryder contacts his CIA friend Tucker Anderson, because he found a bank account that is to fund a terrorist attack. And he asks if Tucker had ever heard of the Library of Gold. Before he can explain more, he is killed. Judd Ryder, Jonathan’s son, Tucker, and manuscript expert Eva Blake are off and running, hoping to stop the terrorists and find the Library, taking the reader into a world of history blended with modern day espionage.
"Fast Paced" and "Action Packed" doesn't come close to the wild ride the readers get in "The Book of Spies". Everyone loves the idea of hidden treasure, and Lynds uses fact and fiction to create the beautiful Library of Gold.
Joyce Kernan
Notorious Nineteen by Janet Evanovich
I never miss one of these books! They are all so entertaining! As per usual Janet Evanovich never disappoints with the Stephanie Plum series. The funny antics and scary situations continue yet again in this novel. I can't wait for the next episode.
Claire Leslie
The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls
I cannot believe the life this woman lived. Her parents were not fit to be parents and the fact that all four children survived is a miracle! The one thing I hate about reading a memoir is that I cannot tell myself its fake when the story is as terrible as this book. And terrible in a way that I hurt for the kids in this book.
Sandy McCullough
Taken by Robert Crais
When Elvis Cole and Joe Pike are hired to find a missing girl, the investigation derails into a nightmare. Cole himself disappears and it’s left to Pike to burn through the deadly world of human traffickers to find his friend. But he may already be too late.
I have discovered a new author!!
Linda Bass
All She Wants for Christmas by Paige Tyler
Hayley Knowles loved her small Christmas parties where she invited her long time friends and their significant others to join her and Connor. The men were downstairs shooting pool while the women assembled in the living room sipping on egg nog or wine and eating Christmas cookies. One thing led to another and all her girlfriends admitted they loved to be spanked and acted up on purpose for it, then told her how it came about that started the spanking. Hayley had come across an article in a hair salon and she couldn't get it out of her mind but was too embarrassed to let her husband know what she wanted as a present and she envied her friends...
Marsha
The Movement of Stars by Amy Brill
This debut novel is inspired by the work and accomplishment of Maria Mitchell, the first American woman to work as a professional astronomer. In 1845 on the island of Nantucket in a community of Friends bereft with societal restraints, we find a young girl who is entranced by the stars. She is asked by a young, dark-skinned eloquent whaler to teach him the stars. He wants for further his career on ship and she yearns for a better life for women in the field of education and sufferage. Together they bond and fall in love in a world that will never accept their ambitions and yearning for advancement. The cultural restraints are heart-breaking. It was not that long ago. She paved the way.
Paula Carlson
The Silver Star by Jeannette Walls
This book was difficult to put down! Everything seemed so real (although fiction). Great story. I read an "advance reader copy" and I believe the book isn't in print yet.
Shelley Hitt
State of Wonder by Ann Patchett
I was captivated from page one. I loved the interplay of science, culture, travel, adventure and mystery as well as the ethical and moral dilemmas posed by the story. The ending was unusual and not completely satisfying but with some unexpected plot twists that kept me up late reading.
Maureen
Calling Me Home by Julie Kibler
The best book I've read in a long time. This touching story about a black hairdresser and the elderly white woman who is her client is wonderful. Isabelle asks Dorrie her hairdresser to drive her to a funeral. On the way the 2 women talk about their lives and the secrets Isabelle has kept come out. If you loved The Help, you will also love this story. I hope to see more by this author.
Maureen
Love Anthony by Lisa Genova
A very touching story about 2 women. One has a recently deceased child who had autism, Anthony. The other just found out her husband has been cheating on her. Its how their 2 stories come together and what it means to have a child with autism. I look forward to reading Lisa Genova's other books.
Kathy Martocci
The Yellow Crocus by Laila Ibrahim
Great new novel of the life of slaves in pre-civil war south. The story centers around Mattie and her life as a mother - her own and her owner's child who she raised with love. It will touch your heart!
Jan Glenn
The Orchardist by Amanda Coplin
It took me a bit to get used to the writing style of the author. The story was really good. It moved slowly at first...seemed a little heavy on the details...but got better with each page that I read.
Kathleen Doyle
A Week in Winter by Maeve Binchy
I must admit...I have been a huge fan of all Maeve Binchy's book starting with Light A Penny Candle and The Glass Lake. Her characters are so realistic and flawed but always loveable. She was a phenomenal writer and I find it so sad that this is her final book.
My most favorite part of all her books is how she draws her characters from her other, previous books, and develops and expands them even further. I loved every page of this book! Thank you Maeve!
Elaine Baxter
The Aviator's Wife by Melanie Benjamin
I waited, forever it seemed, to get this book. So when I got it I could not wait to start reading. I was not the least bit disappointed. It is wonderfully written and honest in it's telling that I felt I was there in the midst of it all. The Lindbergh's were a much loved couple. He was a hero to the world who seemed like a quiet and shy young man, but he had some quirks in his personality that Anne always overlooked, she was so much in awe of him and always felt lucky that he had chosen her to be his wife. The book focuses on Anne Morrow Lindbergh's life with her famous husband. Couldn't wait to get to the last page and when I did I wanted to start reading again. I will definitely read again. READ it, you will not be sorry!
Vickie Keuther
Tending Roses by Lisa Wingate
This was an enjoyable book. I like the character of Rose and enjoyed learning why she was the way she was. Also liked that Rose gave her granddaughter words of wisdom through written stories.
Wendy Catalano
Slow Burn by Anne Marsh
"Slow Burn" by Anne Marsh is the second book in her Smoke Jumpers series. I enjoyed it so much that I will have to read the first book, "Burning Up".
Recently divorced Faye Duncan is finally free and looking for adventure. She buys a red Corvette and travels to Strong, CA to photograph a small town fire department for a magazine.
Evan Donovan is a smoke jumper. He gets a call from an old army buddy and he asks Evan to keep an eye on his ex-wife Faye while she is in town. He reluctantly agrees and finds her at the local bar. A singing, dancing, drunken angel. She passes out in Evan's arms and he takes her home.
Ms. March gives us a sizzling romance with Faye and Evan and also a touch of suspense when a town arsonist wreaks havoc.
Ruth
Under the Banner of Heaven by Jon Krakauer
I've had this book in my to-read pile for years, and one of the book clubs I'm in finally selected it. The timing was perfect! I'm currently obsessed with the Jodi Arias trial and all the historical background of the Mormon religion presented in this book tied in so well with the Mormon element of this current murder case. I thought the book would be more about a true murder case from 1984, so I was a little disappointed that the author limited that aspect to a few scattered chapters.
Linda Johnson
The Realm of Last Chances by Steve Yarbrough
Kristen and Cal move to Massachusetts after her job is eliminated as an administrator for a college in California. Cal takes care of the house and plays music though he does not consider himself a musician. The two slowly develop relationships with people they meet in their new homes. Most of the people in this book seem to have secrets. When will they spill out?
Sandy McCullough
The Beginner's Goodbye by Anne Tyler
Crippled in his right arm and leg, Aaron spent his childhood fending off a sister who wants to manage him. So when he meets Dorothy, a plain, outspoken, self-dependent young woman, she is like a breath of fresh air. Unhesitatingly he marries her, and they have a relatively happy, unremarkable marriage. But when a tree crashes into their house and Dorothy is killed, Aaron feels as though he has been erased forever. Only Dorothy’s unexpected appearances from the dead help him to live in the moment and to find some peace.
This book moved a little too slow for me. Don't think I can finish it.
