This contest period's winners were Betty F., Brad J., Heather F., Luna A. and Margie S., who each received a copy of IN THE BLOOD by Lisa Unger, THE INVENTION OF WINGS by Sue Monk Kidd and RADIANCE OF TOMORROW by Ishmael Beah.
Norma Filler
The Husband's Secret by Liane Moriarty
The interwoven stories of secrets, love, and betrayal keep you engrossed and entertained. Although the book deals with very serious issues, Moriarty still adds humor to the story which makes it a very enjoyable read.
Allison Gardner
Secrets of Paris by Luanne Rice
Great love story.
Lynn Tamms
Sycamore Row by John Grisham
This is a sequel to A TIME TO KILL. Jake Brigantz hasn't had a big case since Carl Haley's murder trial. In a holographic will, an dying millionaire leaves almost his entire estate to a black woman who worked for him for three years. Of course the family contests it. Although Jake never met him, the man sent the will to him and asked him to make sure the terms of the will were upheld. Grisham's writing is so pure, so compelling, that you believe you are part of the story. This is his best yet!
Kara Shamy
The Good House by Ann Leary
Ann Leary's The Good House is an entertaining, emotionally compelling novel that I would also count as a work of literary art of considerable depth and sophistication -- and what's more, unique social significance. I would recommend this novel widely without reservation, with an exception being any reader who wishes to avoid a fictional treatment of the reality of addiction for personal reasons of any kind (the narrator/protagonist's struggles with alcohol abuse are central to the novel's plot and meaning, as I read it). That said, I would encourage readers who are not totally comfortable with the prospect of an intimate, insider's look at the reality of addiction to try engaging with this work.
Sharon
Say You're Sorry by Michael Robotham
Natasha (Tash) McBain and Piper Hadley are girls that I will probably never forget. This story is centered around them; the hunt for them since they were abducted the last Saturday of the summer holidays or are they merely runaways?
Jayme Gruden
The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion
Engaging and delightful - the perfect book to take on vacation.
Sharon Elliott-Fox
Hild by Nicola Griffith
Long and involved. I wished I had a list of characters with their connections to one another and perhaps a more detailed map of the area as the names were so similar and unusual. I found it hard to follow sometimes. Good description of 7th century life--although of course, most of it was about the king's court--but it did show that the "royal" women worked as well as the commoners in providing the necessities of life--food, cloth, etc. Seemed so terrible how women of high birth were pawns in the political processes of the era.
Jayme Gruden
The Reason I Jump: The Inner Voice of a Thirteen-Year Old Boy Living with Autism by Naoki Higashida, K.A. Yoshida (translator), David Mitchell (translator)
I found The Reason I Jump an informative book that gave me a glimpse into what it might be like to be living with autism. There are little nuggets of wisdom that made me rethink how I have interacted with some of my students who were diagnosed with high-functioning autism. I especially liked the advice about always addressing them by name first to get their attention before you give them a verbal direction – makes sense.
My problem with the book is that I found myself questioning the validity of the writing and the translation because there isn’t any in-depth background information about Higashida and how this nonverbal autistic boy learned to write so fluidly. More information about his life would have been helpful.
Paula Harpster
The Night Strangers by Chris Bohjalian
Eerie foreshadowing, unique characters, and a spooky old house.
Lillian Tanon
The Husband's Secret by Liane Moriarty
At the heart of The Husband’s Secret is a letter that’s not meant to be read
"My darling Cecilia, if you’re reading this, then I’ve died. . . "
Imagine that your husband wrote you a letter, to be opened after his death. Imagine, too, that the letter contains his deepest, darkest secret—something with the potential to destroy not just the life you built together, but the lives of others as well. Imagine, then, that you stumble across that letter while your husband is still very much alive. . . .
Gail Krieger
The Orphan Train by Christina Baker Kline
I found this book, based on real events, to be very interesting. I did not know that the "orphan train" existed. The main character was very strong, especially for the time and what she went through.
Donna Shaw
The Deepest Secret by Carla Buckley
A well written and informative story about a family living teenage boy who cannot be exposed to UV rays as even a pinprick of light can cause death. A tragedy takes place and the secrets begin in an attempt to protect other members of the family not knowing who is guilty or innocent.
Elaine Beierbach
In the Blood by Lisa Unger
First I read of her books. Not bad.
Dennis Beierbach
In the Blood by Lisa Unger
Like her style.
Karen Frangoulis
Left Neglected by Lisa Genova
Absolutely fantastic!
Kim crotty
Me Before You by Jojo Moyes
Not predictable. Different storyline than typical characters with injuries. Sympathy and understanding for all characters
Gloria Fabijanic
The Last Letter from Your Lover by JoJo Moyes
Moyes weaves a wonderful story of crossed lovers with an interesting ending. Love her writing style.
Donna Shaw
Andrew's Brain: A Novel by E. L. Doctorow
A story that is confusing at the beginning and then you get into the flow. It's an unusual read that sucks you in and then surprises you at the end. I didn't see it coming.
Lauren B.
A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens
After a long semester, I decided to begin my pleasure reading with a festive pick. A Christmas Carol has been on my TBR list for quite some time. I have to admit that I was not the biggest fan of Dickens when I read him in high school; however, I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed reading this festive classic. The only problem now is that when I watch different versions of the movie, I find myself rating how close it comes it to the book. I highly recommend this book to anyone, especially those who had a similar school experience.
Marcia Sailer
Reunion at Red Paint Bay by George Harrar
This is a mystery concerning who is stalking newspaper editor, Simon Howe. Simon is a well-respected businessman in his hometown. Prior to his class reunion, he begins to receive ominous postcards, each posted closer to his town. From postcards to personal attacks, the suspense escalates, revealing a surprising secret from Simon's past. Good read but the end leaves the reader wondering what the final consequences will be.
Donna Hessel
The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt
I loved this coming of age story. Tartt's beautiful writing gave me the best reading experience I've had in a long time. There were a few slow areas where I thought she was more wordy than she needed to be, bu,t all in all, this was a wonderful book.
Judith Mroz
The All Girl Filling Station's Last Reunion by Fannie Flagg
This was an audio book that was read by the author. I laughed, I cried and all the emotions in between. I enjoyed it very much.
Donna Shaw
Under the Wide and Starry Sky by Nancy Horan
A historical, well-researched novel about the life of Robert Louis Stevenson and his wife, Fanny. Stevenson suffered from severe lung problems and was near death on many occasions. Fanny sacrificed her own health and well being to take care of him and saving his life. Though she had her own dreams, he was focused on himself and his writings. To his credit, he wasn't as unlikeable as Hemingway and Fitzgerald.
Peggy Niles
Mrs. Poe by Lynn Cullen
I have always been intrigued about what kind of life Edgar Allan Poe had that would have inspired his stories and poems. This book brought him to life for me. His personal relationships with his wife, aunt, and Frances Osgood explained some of his behavior. I really enjoyed the historical depiction of New York and the literary society of the time -- I would recommend the book on that part of the book alone.
Phyllis Relyea
My Beloved Country by Sonia Sotomayor
I am so glad I listened to this book about a wonderful woman who really brought herself up "by her boot straps". She is an excellent writer and is such a lovely role model for young girls.
Judy
Silver Bells by Luanne Rice
Luanne tells the story of several families who are struggling through the holidays; through grieving losses, despite wealth or near poverty. Luanne always writes a masterpiece.
Mary Rodriguez
The Voices of Heaven by Maija Rhee Deveine
Romantic story during the Korean War period and the tragedy of the war.
Judy Ringelestein
Parasite Rex by Carl Zimmer
A wow of a book. Hidden thingies that live within and on us and how they affect us. They outnumber our own body cells by the millions. They hide in the gut, the nose, the bellybutton, the ears, the skin, the hair.....everywhere. They eat our skin and in some cases change our behaviour.
A must read. Amazing; Astounding; Eye opener.
Gil
The Supremes at Earl's All-You-Can-Eat by Edward Kelsey Moore
A heart warming story of three African-American women who have helped each other throughout their lives into their fifties. The story takes place in southern Indiana at a time of significant racial prejudice. These three women meet at Earl's every Sunday after church to advise and console each other. A very good read.
Linda Zarett
The Lowland by Jhumpa Lahiri
The Lowland is a beautifully written story about the love and struggles that exists between two Indian brothers and the differing directions their lives take them. I loved the novel and I am in awe of the way Jhumpa Lahiri writes, but be prepared, it is also a very melancholy story.
Bonnie Tollefson
One Thousand White Women by Jim Fergus
Totally fiction based on a kernel of historical fact. Excellent writing -- makes you believe it is totally true.
Joyce Igel
Morning Glory by Sarah Jio
Sarah has woven another spell-binding tale; rich with fascinating characters and set in a tempting location. I'm ready to rent a houseboat!
Linda Reck
The Lowland by Jhumpa Lahiri
This is the story of two brothers born 15 months apart in India. The younger one, Udayan becomes a revolutionary and marries. Suhash goes to America to pusue studies in oceanography. After Udayan is killed, Subhash comes back to marry his pregnant wife. Back in America things don't go too well. Gauri is not really fit to be a mother and is more interested in her studies. When Subhash and Bela, the litttle girl, come back after a visit to India. Gauri, the wife is gone. Cowardly way to leave in my opinion. Through it all, Udayan is present even in death. Subhash become Americanized and raises Bela, who reacts poorly to her mother's leave-taking.This ia a beautifully written book that will stay in my memory.
rosemary carey
Sleep with the Light On by Maggie Shayne
4 1/2 stars this is a great book about a self help writer who receives eye transplants
and the consequences as the donor was a serial killer, and she begins to have visions about brutal
murders. Really good book.
Pat Caron
Where'd You Go, Bernadette by Maria Semple
This has to be one of the best books I have read in a long time. I laughed out loud and wished it went on longer!
Donna Sternbach
Fin and Lady by Cathleen Schine
Sweet book.
Stacey K
Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins
This is the second time I have read this book and it is even better since having seen the movie. This is the 2nd book in the Hunger Games Trilogy. Loved it!
Melanie S.
The Ocean at the End of the Lane by Neil Gaiman
I knew nothing about this book before reading it, nor have I read any of Mr. Gaiman's previous works. The book had received such critical acclaim that it was on my "want-to-read" list for quite some time. Having just finished, I have to say I was quite disappointed. I had no idea this was a fantasy book; fantasy is not a genre I generally read. I felt as if it was a children or teen's book and would appeal much more to that age group. It felt more to me like a short story, and interestingly in the epilogue the author shares that it began as one. Although it had some philosophical ideas embedded within and the writing certainly propelled the story along, I really couldn't wait to finish and move on to my next book.
June M. Johnson
The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry by Rachel Joyce
Wonderful insight into loving someone in a marriage, but really have a poor relationship.
I had no inkling of how this tale would end.
Patricia Hunter
Birdology by Sy Montgomery
I am almost done reading this book. I've learned some AMAZING facts. Anyone the least bit curious about birds should read this.
Judy O.
The Language of Sisters by Amy Hatvany
Another great read by this author!!! Nicole is a young woman working as a baker in San Francisco who has a severely disabled sister living in the Seattle area. When she finds out that this sister, Jenny, was raped in the home where she resided and is now pregnant; Nicole goes home to help their mother care for Jenny. This was a very affecting story.
Linda Frashure
Me Before You by JoJo Moyes
Best book I have read this year! Loved the story, writing, and pace.
Betty Fitzgerald
Me Before You by Jojo Moyes
I'm about 1/2 way through and at first, I thought it would be an easy read. Now the characters are more complicated and the story has more depth. If it continues this way, it'll be a book I will recommend to my Book Club. A 26 year old girl is desperate for a job to help support her extended family. She is hired to be a companion to a quadriplegic who (unbeknownst to her) wants to commit suicide. At first it's "just a job" but now she truly cares for her client and wants to show him that life is worth living. Her method is unorthodox--just like her personality--but she's determined to give it her all.
Fran
The Vanishing by Bentley Little
If you like sex/gore/weird/sick books, this one is right up your alley. My best review for this book comes in one word: strange.
Wendy Zuckerberg
The Silent Wife by A.S.A. Harrison
Suspenseful!
Elizabeth V
The Signature of All Things by Elizabeth Gilbert
This may be the best fiction of 2013. I know a book is a winner when I hate to see it end. THE SIGNATURE OF ALL THINGS is too good to end, so it passes that test. This book is usually described as a family saga. But it may be more fair to say that it begins with the story of Alma Whittaker's father in order for the reader to better understand Alma.The majority of the book is Alma, from her birth to her death. And what a life, especially after she is 50! So much fiction concentrates on characters who are in their 20s and 30s. What a pleasant change this is to see a woman accomplish so much post-50. In an effort to avoid spoilers, description of the book stops there in this review. Most reviews say too much.
Dianne
Death of the Black-Haired GIrl by Robert Stone
Interesting mystery, starts a little slow.
Aaron Polish
Haunted Ohio by Chris Woodyard
Haunted places in Ohio. Very scary.
Ginny Horton
Hanns and Rudolf: The True Story of the German Jew Who Tracked Down and Caught the Kommandant of Auschwitz by Thomas Harding
This is an incredibly well-researched and documented book by the grand-nephew of Hanns Alexander who tracked down and caught the Kommandant of Auschwitz. It is a true story that reads like an historical thriller.
JoRN
The Cutting Room by Jilliane Hoffman
A good thriller by a good author.
Judy Stein
Death Angel by Linda A. Fairstein
Fairstein's series continues, as Alexandra, Mike and Mercer comb the wilds of Central Park to find clues. I loved all the park history, discussion of landmarks and most of all, a look inside the grand Dakota, whose resident children viewed the park as their personal playground. I've been fascinated by the building's history ever since I read Time and Again, by Jack Finney many years ago (if you missed this classic, find a copy!) So, as a Dakota wonk, I heartily recommend it. (Took off one star because the villains weren't nearly as interesting as the history.)
Phoenix
Death at SeaWorld: Shamu and the Dark Side of Killer Whales in Captivity by David Kirby
In this eloquent & intelligent work, the author exposes the true story of orca-human relations at SeaWorld. He draws strongly from the experience of former SeaWorld trainers as well as researchers who study orcas in the wild. A tour de force of investigative journalism.
Colin Beierbach
In the Blood by Lisa Unger
A page turner.
Vicki Rogers
The Ocean at the End of the Lane by Neil Gaiman
The Ocean at the End of the Lane is a very intriguing, engrossing tale. I couldn't put it down. Neil Gaiman is an excellent storyteller and the characters and dialogue are both imaginatively mysterious and real at the same time. This story will stay with you long after you have finished reading it.
Krismar Ramker
Defending Jacob by William Landay
A lawyer and former DA is caught in the case of his life, as his teenaged son is accused of a horrific murder. The storyline waivers between the past and present in regard to the case. The father begins to piece together the murder events as his sullen son looks on, pleading his innocence. A page-turner to the end.
Deb Muzik
Takedown Twenty by Janet Evanovich
Again, a funny but suspenseful read. Stephanie, Lula and Grandma capers galore!
Melanie Johnson
The Engagements by J. Courtney Sullivan
Great novel about the beginning of diamonds, the DeBeer company and what engagement rings symbolize in our country.
Melanie Johnson
The Engagements by J. Courtney Sullivan
Great novel about the beginning of diamonds, the DeBeer company and what engagement rings symbolize in our country.
Donna Shaw
Glitter and Glue by Kelly Corrigan
A lovely, funny and touching memoir about a mother and daughter. It reminds us that oftentimes, one parent is the glitter, while the other is the glue. Mothers are normally the glue that remains with the children into their adulthood. You can try to escape it, but she's always there with you, as she has been in the past.
Kathryn B
Dear Life by Alice Munro
A respected and renowned Canadian writer and storyteller has won the 2013 Nobel Prize in Literature. And I have to admit I have not read ONE of her books. Until now. I bought my own copy of Dear Life and read the collection of short stories, and then mailed it off to my (American) cousin for Christmas. I don't often read short stories. I'm glad I read these. I will read more of Alice's stories.
Deborah Ader
The Twelve by Justin Cronin
I am a huge vampire fan and dystopia fan. Justin Cronin's Passage series combines two of my favorite genres and adds an interesting twist. I can't wait for the 3rd book.
Sherri Hines
Love Anthony by Lisa Genova
Love her books. Hadn't heard any buzz about this one, but that is as it should be. Don't want to give anything away but as usual in her books it deals with an neurological issue and relationships in dealing with. The epilogue brings tears and the author's note is very thoughtful. A must read.
Shelley Case
The Orphan Train by Christina Baker Kline
This was a truly amazing and heart felt read! Would highly recommend this to everyone.
Brad Jungers
Money Makeover by Dave Ramsey
This book has very good financial information. I will be recommending it to all my friends.
Barbara Jennings
The Twins by Tessa de Loo
I listened to the audio book. The reader was incredible, taking on the voices of the two women and the men in the story. I could not stop listening!
Laura Beierbach
In the Blood by Lisa Unger
Will share at Christmas. Worth the read.
Joyce Clark
The Husband's Secret by Liane Moriarity
Enjoyable book. Interesting characters.
Dennis Hotetz
Washington's Secret Six by Brian Kilmeade
Excellent historical writing about a topic not too many people know about of how our nation was founded and defeated the British during the first few years of our existence.
Wendy Johnson
Just What Kind of Mother Are You? by Paula Daly
A chilling thriller that reminds me of Gone Girl.
Fran
Last Light by Terri Blackstock
Interesting premise.... what would life be like if we suddenly lost all sources of power? I did not realize that this was a Christian fiction prior to reading it and sometimes the Christian preaching was a bit much for my style. Despite this, it was pretty interesting.
Tanya Brown
The Fulfillment & Then Came Heaven by LaVyrle Spencer
The first and the last book written by LaVyrle Spencer. They are old books, but I can't help it, I still love her writing---wish she would write again.
Pam Relyea
Little Bee by Chris Cleave
Loved it.
Katie
I Wear the Black Hat: Grappling With Villains (Real and Imagined) by Chuck Klosterman
In "I Wear the Black Hat", Chuck Klosterman discusses villains from OJ Simpson to Machiavelli. An especially funny moment is when he even describes why so many people have a subconscious hatred for the Eagles. A perfect read for those with deep roots in pop culture.
Lynn W
Dinner with the Smileys by Sarah Smiley
Excellent book about the Maine family that filled the father's place at the dinner table once a week for 52 weeks. When Smiley was deployed to Africa, his wife and three sons missed him most during the evening meal. So they invited friends, neighbors, Maine's Senator, Congressmen, community leaders, and others from all walks of life to join them.
Elaine Beierbach
In the Blood by Lisa Unger
My first read by him. I was pleasantly surprised.
Lynn W
The Husband's Secret by Liane Moriarty
When Cecilia Fitzpatrick opens a letter from her husband BEFORE he dies, she opens Pandora's box and so many lives will change. This is a spellbinding, even shocking, tale of secrets kept from husbands and wives. One of the best books of the year!
Jane Squires
The Firefighter's New Family by Gail Gaymer Martin
A tornado brings Devon into Ashley's life. Joey, her young son finds safety in Devon. Ashley had a tree fall on her causing her to have surgery on her leg.
She only lives 3 houses down from Devon. So Devon helps her out as much as he can. Since I have a knee replacement and ankle fusion, I know how hard it is to maneuver with a cast. It is a struggle.
Then their is Kaylee, Devon' daughter, product of his ex-wife and she is bipolar. Devon had no idea of her condition when he married her. My daughter has a friend who is bipolar and description is very real. It is hard sometimes.
Kaylee is one year older than Joey (or a few months anyway).
Ashley had lost her first husband as he was killed in war.
Sue Leven
Innocence by Dean Koontz
Koontz never fails to deliver a great story. Absolutely loved it!
Linda Harrison
Stranded by Alex Kava
FBI Agents Maggie O’Dell and J. R. Tully are investigating a string of murders committed along interstates and are in Iowa at a dump site used by the murderer. As body parts are discovered, it appears as if the murderer is taunting Maggie. When Maggie and J.R. go to Florida to another supposed dump site, things go horribly wrong and the murderer known as Jack is there. Maggie hopes that Ryder Creed and his tracking dog can get to them in time.
Linda Harrison
Rose Harbor in Bloom by Debbie Macomber
As Jo Marie Rose receives her first guests at Rose Harbor Inn, she is anxiously awaiting word on her husband. He was in a helicopter crash in Afghanistan and was believed to have perished but the bodies were not recovered and Jo Marie was holding out hope. Her first guests included a number of unforgettable characters. Macomber’s books are always good and this one was no exception.
Linda Harrison
The King's Deception by Steve Berry
When Scottish authorities agree to release the Libyan responsible for the Lockerbie bombing, the United States is livid. British authorities will not intervene in this. The CIA is tasked with finding something that would embarrass Britain and cause them to act. The King’s Deception is the name given to the plot but Britain’s MI6 has found out about it and goes all out to stop the CIA from finding out the truth. If made public, the truth would cause the troubles in Ireland to start up again. The CIA and MI6 are battling it out in England and Cotton Malone and his son Gary are right in the middle of it.
Linda Harrison
Police by Jo Nesbo
This was a suspenseful book as you try to determine who is murdering policemen. The murders occur at locations where a previous crime was committed without an arrest being made. Harry Hole is back as a consultant to the Oslo police and thinks the murderer is a fellow policeman. In addition to helping solve the murders, Harry is stalked by a psycho student. As the murders continue, Harry and his group of fellow officers doggedly work toward finding the murderer.
Linda Harrison
Rumor Has It by Jill Shalvis
A cute love story with steamy sex scenes. When Griffin Reid returns from Afghanistan for his sister’s wedding, he is recovering from a wound and is certainly not looking for female companionship. That is, until he runs into Kate Evans, his sister’s best friend. He has been warned by his sister to stay away from Kate but Kate is determined to live one magical night doing what she wants. She wants Griffin.
Linda Harrison
The Night is Forever by Heather Graham
Olivia Gordon has the ability to see ghosts but is petrified when she finds the body of her dead boss Marcus Danby and then feels the hand of his ghost on her shoulder. She calls her brother Malachi, a member of the FBI’s Krewe Hunters, and he sends in Dustin Blake. Dustin is also able to see Marcus but the ghost is unable to tell them who killed him. Then another of Olivia’s co-workers is killed and several more Krewe Hunters arrive. They all feel that the killer has to be one of Olivia’s co-workers and more murders will occur if this person is not stopped.
Linda Harrison
The Night is Forever by Heather Graham
Olivia Gordon has the ability to see ghosts but is petrified when she finds the body of her dead boss Marcus Danby and then feels the hand of his ghost on her shoulder. She calls her brother Malachi, a member of the FBI’s Krewe Hunters, and he sends in Dustin Blake. Dustin is also able to see Marcus but the ghost is unable to tell them who killed him. Then another of Olivia’s co-workers is killed and several more Krewe Hunters arrive. They all feel that the killer has to be one of Olivia’s co-workers and more murders will occur if this person is not stopped.
Linda Harrison
Bellman and Black by Diane Setterfield
This was a weird book and certainly not a ghost story as it is advertised. When William Bellman was a young lad of 10, he used a slingshot and killed a baby rook. As he grew older, rooks were always around and then a mysterious Mr. Black appeared at funerals for Bellman’s friends and family. No one knew him and apparently no one saw him except William. Was this a rook in human form? I don’t recommend this book.
Linda Harrison
First Sight by Danielle Steel
Timmie O’Neill was a workaholic and head of a fashion line known as Timmie O. Abandoned as a child, she grew up in an orphanage and still harbored feelings of abandonment. Married once and divorced, she had no special man in her life and had just about given up meeting that special someone until she met a doctor in France. Theirs was a whirlwind romance with just one problem. He had promised Timmie he would divorce his wife but things always seemed to delay this. Could she trust him or will she be abandoned again?
Linda Harrison
The Devil’s Heart: The Chattan Curse by Cathy Maxwell
As Lady Margaret Chattan travels to the Macnachtan stronghold, a strong wind arises and the coach is knocked down the mountainside. She is found by Heath Macnachtan, Laird of the Macnachtan clan, lying away from the crash site under the shelter of evergreens. She has come to try and end the curse put on the Chattan family by an ancestor of the Macnachtans. Heath does not believe in the curse nor has he even heard of it but he finds himself falling in love with Margaret. She tells herself she will never fall in love but finds herself falling for Heath.
Linda Harrison
Wyoming Bold by Diana Palmer
This book’s main character is Dalton Kirk, the youngest of the Kirk brothers. One night, he had a visitor by the name of Merissa Baker, a woman who had the gift of sight. She came to warn Dalton of potential danger as someone would try to kill him but she had no specifics. Dalton was kind of leery until one of her visions almost came true. He had been shot and left for dead several months back by a rogue DEA agent. He remembered some of what had happened but could not place the face of the rogue agent. Was he the one who would try to kill him?
Linda Harrison
Be With Me by Maya Banks
Regina Fallon grew up a tomboy with Hutch, Cam, and Sawyer. Regina was the daughter of the mayor who was ignored by her parents while the boys were foster kids in the care of a loving foster mother named Birdie. Now grown, Regina is a police officer while the boys have a successful construction business. Now someone is after Regina and the boys want to protect her by having her live with them. Will this be a platonic relationship or do the boys want something else?
Linda Harrison
In the Flesh by Sylvia Day
Wulfric, Crown Prince of D’Ashier awakens in the healing chamber to see a beautiful woman. Katie Erikson, known as Sapphire, is the king’s favorite concubine. She is in awe of the handsome man in the healing chamber, not only due to his royal status but also for his reputation as a great warrior. They fall in love and she leaves with him for his kingdom but the king of Saria wants her back. He will never let her go.
Linda Reck
Me Before You by Jojo Moyes
At first I thought that I'd like this book about a man who's hit by a motorcycle and becomes a paraplegic with a very sour outlook. Into his life comes Lou, a companion, so that he doesn't have to be alone all the time. The job for Lou is supposed to last six months. Lou finds out that in six months time, he's opting for euthanasia. She finds that unacceptable and starts devising all sorts of activities for them from a racetrack to a symphony and everything in between. I'm up to the point where they get tattoos. His has the month, day and year of his accident. He still doesn't seem to want to live. And I think that Lou's falling in love with him. If so, that will make the book very predictable.
Mamie
In The Blood by Lisa Unger
Suspenseful read.
John Kurtze
The Trigger by L.J. Sellers
You will enjoy how the surprising twists and turns gives suspense and thrills to the end of a great whodunit, "The Trigger". The author gives her fans a new hero; one who knows how to use her head to work through difficult situations .It is impossible to guess what is going to happen next, and not knowing builds the suspense. The reader is motivated to buy into the fast pace and unpredictable story. As a reviewer, I don't want to spoil the plot by going into any more details. Sellers does a good job of keeping us guessing all the way to the end showing some creative thinking from Agent Dallas. While L.J. Sellers says "The Trigger" is a standalone book, I can't imagine Agent Dallas fans accepting only one story about her undercover work.
Colin Beierbach
In the Blood by Lisa Unger
A book I read last night...Enjoyed.
Robert L. Cusick
Sycamore Row by John Grisham
Author always a good read-interesting story line & keeps one's interest but typical John Grisham novel.
Sandy McCullough
Unwritten by Charles Martin
An actress running from her past finds escape with a man hiding from his future. When someone wants to be lost, a home tucked among the Ten Thousand Islands off the Florida coast is a good place to live. A couple decent boats, and a deep knowledge of fishing and a man can get by without ever having to talk to another soul. It's a nice enough existence, until the one person who ties him to the world of the living, the reason he's still among them even if only on the fringes, asks him for help. This was one of my favorite books of 2013.
Gil
The Promise of Stardust by Priscille Sibley
What is the right thing to do? That is the question that persists throughout the book. Elle, a former astronaut in top physical condition, falls off a ladder, hits her head on a rock and becomes brain dead. It turns out that she is pregnant. She left instructions that she did not want life support while in a vegetative state, but did not stipulate what to do if she were pregnant. Her husband, Matt, insists that she would want to be kept alive long enough to give birth. Thus the dilemma: go off life support and no chance of a baby, or sustain Elle until the birth? This question is tearing the family apart. The family consists of Matt's mother and brothers, and Elle's father and brother. Could not stop reading until the end.
Linda Johnson
Safe from the Sea by Peter Geye
Wow! This slim book evoked so many emotions. I wasn't sure how it was going to tie the story in the few pages that were left, but Geye did it superbly.
I grew up on the Great Lakes and my favorite spot would be the UP (Upper Penninsula) of Michigan. Geye described the terrain, the pull of the lakes, and the parallels with the family's relationship with the lake and each other.
Jan Zahrly
Police by Jo Nesbo
The best Harry Hole mystery yet! Police are being murdered, Harry is teaching in the police college ad not on the force -- yet, as always, he is involved. There are many murders, other attacks, and many suspects. It is difficult to write this without a spoiler. Rakel and Oleg are still around and Mikael Bellman is chief of police! For readers who follow Harry Hole, hurry to get this. It took me longer than usual to read it because of so many twists and turns. And the last page gives us a clue that there is at least one more Harry Hole book to come.
Judy O.
Exposed--The Secret Life of Jodi Arias by Jane Velez-Mitchell
Jodi Arias is the young woman who was much in the news about a year ago, when she was on trial for murdering her boyfriend, Travis Alexander. This is the story of that murder and more importantly it is a picture of the world of that young woman. About 3/4 of the way through, I got tired of the repetitious details that were being discussed in the trial, so I gave it up. It was an interesting look at a murderess though.
Lois Lilling
People of the Book by Geraldine Brooks
The more times I read this book, the more I learn. Vivid history and memorable characters
keep this book alive. Our book club is reading it and all love it.
Debbie M
Identical by Scott Turow
This is an interesting story of identical twins and the depth of love that drives them to an extreme sacrifice. The story also centers on the first layer of American Greek culture and family. The person responsible for the death Dita is not revealed under the end of the novel, but I had already guesses the culprit. The story becomes a little confusing after Cass is released from prison, and the reader slowly learns of the twin’s deception. Also, a few of the characters have similar names, which provides more confusion. The facts seem to waiver, especially on the children of Lidia. The prime investigator, Tim Brody, seems ready to sink into a chair and die at any time. The story does not flow well.
Crystal Blackburn
Murder, She Wrote: The Miane Mutiny by Jessica Fletcher & Donald Bain
A good, cozy mystery featuring the Jessica Fletcher character from the "Murder, She Wrote" television show. The part about lobster fishing is very interesting too.
Courtney Skelton
Mission To The Stars: Book One: The Search for FTL by Ted Iverson
Ted Iverson has created what is a great read. It holds your interest, it is very well written, and considering the genre of this book, I would not be surprised to see it achieve cult status.
The storyline did not seem like it started fast, yet it must have things become interesting and intense within the first fifteen pages. I do know my reading pace increased as I find out the ending. It has a great mixture of futuristic writing as well as character building. The inventions stretched your imagination as far as what could be possible and yet still stayed plausible at the same time. The characters are developed so well that while reading you can’t help but to create a bond with them and cheer them on during their search for FTL.
Izella Cadwallader
The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt
A very long read but keeps you hooked until the end. I loved the theme of how innocently saving a painting affected the main character's entire life. He had numerous chances to right the situation but just couldn't bring himself to give up the picture. I liked the book very much.
Vikki Cabral
Doctor Sleep by Stephen King
Sequel to the Shining. If you are into fantasy type books, you might like it. Not one of my favorite Stephen King novels.
Jan Zahrly
The Woman in Black by Susan Hill
Interesting mystery - not the usual modern detective novel. An attorney, retired with a wife and step-children, is urged to tell a ghost story but will not. He writes out his own experience with the "Woman In Black."
Luna Arch
The Name of the Star by Maureen Johnson
i would recommend this book for teenagers and adults. it is suspenseful and scary.
Francisca E B
The Paris Wife by Paula McLain
Book on CD narrated by Carrington MacDuffie. Love, as we know, is not enough by itself, and Ernest Hemingway and Hadley Richardson find themselves ill equipped to deal with the realities of their life together in 1920s Paris. Most of this novel is written from Hadley’s point of view, but there are sections where McClain emulates Hemingway’s style, giving us a glimpse of his point of view. This is a wonderful companion piece to Hemingway’s memoir -
A Moveable Feast. Carrington McDuffie does a good job reading the audio version.
Linda Reck
Me Before You by Jojo Moyes
At first I thought that the ending would be predictable and that would disappoint me. Will is a paraplegic who did everything - mountain climbing and other difficult sports' activities. He worked hard and lived and loved just as hard. His accident leaves a man like Will with nothing. Lou is contracted to take care of Will for six months, which is when he will die by euthanasia. He truly has nothing to live for. Lou does everything she can to change his mind. She even falls in love with him. The ending was poignant but the way the book should have ended without relying on the easy way out. Jojo Moyes writes from the heart.
VAL
Prayers for the Stolen by Jennifer Clement
Google's definition of literary is: concerning the writing, study, or content of literature, esp. of the kind valued for quality of form. Jennifer Clement book PRAYERS FOR THE STOLEN has quality and form. Her writing was very pleasing, easy on the eyes and mind. Jennifer took a very hard topic, and wrote it so soft and beautiful that you couldn't put the book down. PRAYERS FOR THE STOLEN is a story about a small Mexican village where women and children are the only villagers left; their men either on a pilgrimage to the United States or taken by the drug cartel and/or the corrupted government. How these women survive and provide for their families is truly amazing. Thank you Jennifer for your true quality form of literature, bravo 5*****
Betty Ramsey
Death's Revenge by Robert Koger
This book is about the surviving members of a Vietnam death squad being murdered one by one forty years after the war. A man called The Bird is exacting revenge for what he feels was betrayal by everyone involved, including the government. The FBI sends in a special team to track down this man and stop the killing.
The story is good, although somewhat predictable. My main criticism regards the language. The author needs to broaden his descriptive phrases to paint a more interesting picture for our imagination.
The author did a good job holding my interest to the end. I enjoyed the book and thought it worth the read.
Reva Wamsley
W Is For Wasted by Sue Grafton
I hope she finds a way to continue this series when she runs out of letters because I would really miss reading about Kinsey Millhone. Kinsey is a PI who lives in California. In this book, a homeless man is found on the beach with her name in is pocket. She's called down to identify him to discover she's never seen him before. By talking to some other homeless people, she finds out his name & that he has money in the bank. She tracts down the bank where he has a safety deposit box to discover his will & finds out she's not only the executor of his estate but also inherits over a half a million dollars. She finds out she's actually related to him. She goes to inform his family of his death to find she is not exactly warmly welcomed.
Margie Saulsbury
The Death of Santini by Pat Conroy
An inspiring, but troubling saga of a family and it's rise to learn to love one another.
Fran
The Returned by Jason Mott
I loved the idea of this book but the delivery fell short for me. I never connected to any of the characters and felt the story became boring after the first 100 pages. I wanted to like it and therefore I finished it.
Bonnie Gluhanich
The Book of Illusions by Paul Auster
When you pick up a book you've started and think I have to finish this and not I WANT to finish this, it's time to put the book down.
Jane Squires
Plum Deadly by Ellie Grant
A mystery that puts you walking through the story with the characters.
Aunt Clara is loveable, trusting and loves her pie shop. And she does not want to sell it. Her niece, Maggie, has returned to her. She was framed for embezzlement and fired from her job in New York City. The charges were all dropped but she still lost her job.
Her ex-boss shows up at Pie Shop wanting to clear Maggie's name. But instead he is killed. I got all the way to the end not guessing the killer. So enjoy.
Maggie falls for Ryan, Publisher of newspaper. Romance develops in midst of all the bad circumstances. Ryan works with Clara and Maggie trying to figure out who killed the ex-boss.
Jan Zahrly
Life After Life by Jill McCorkle
This book just did not do it for me. The author tried to deal with all concerns - death, dying, aging, marriage, parenting, personal maturation, community, gossip, families, housing for the elderly, sexual and emotional affairs, lost relationships and past hurts, suicide, sexual identity, a little mystery at the end (who killed her?). I put the book down several times and only went back to finish it because my favorite book discussion group is going to discuss it next week. There are so many tells - what happened to the dog? Does the third husband have AIDS? How can she mean so much to the children in the second marriage and then get dumped? Not much meat on the bone here.
Debbie M
The Minor Adjustment Beauty Salon by Alexander McCall Smith
This audio book presented a delightful excursion to Africa after all the Christmas rush. I love to hear the pronunciation of the names that seem so musical. The birth of Grace's birthday and her very short maternity leave expound on the ups and downs of a relationship. Smith presents a love of country and an acceptance of life. Precious plods on with her detective business, but realizes how greatly she misses Grace. Jealousy and greed play a small role in the story, but truth and honesty prevail. The chapter where J.L. goes to a class to become a modern husband is hilarious, but also sadly filled with truth.
Laurie Dietz
The Rent Collector by Camron Wright
Our book club recently read this book and we loved it! Personally, it made me realize that I need to appreciate more of what I have in my life but it touched all of us in some way or another.
Marsha
Day of Confession by Allan Folsom
This gripping thriller takes us into the Vatican politics as one brother tries to save his priest brother from a dangerous situation. This talented storyteller keeps you enthralled as he unravels a monstrous conspiracy arising from the very heart of the Vatican.
Fran
Revolution by Jennifer Donnelly
I enjoyed this young adult novel. Jennifer Donnelly captures the angst of a modern day angry teenager who finds solace in a diary written by a young woman two centuries ago.
shelly itkin
Redemption Mountain by Gerry FitzGerald
Charlie Burden is high on the corporate ladder in his company and after twenty-five year is not sure of his own life anymore. Charlie decides he wants to work with his hands on projects and not in the office anymore. He is tired of the country club life and his children are both adults and so it is just he and his wife. He decides he wants a change and although he was hoping to go to China he winds up in West Virginia where he is in charge of overseeing a construction project on Redemption Mountain in Red Bone, Virginia.
When Charlie arrives, he meets Natty a beautiful, young woman who could not be more different then Charlie. She is married to a childhood sweetheart that abuses her and hardly pays any attention to her and none to
Sandra Furlotte
Morven and the Horse Clan by Luanne Armstrong
This book is an engaging imaging of a girl, Morven, and her clan in 3500 BC Europe. Morven introduces horses to her people and changes life for them forever. The descriptions of the landscape of the steppes is wonderful.
Tessa B C
Bud, Not Buddy by Christopher Paul Curtis
Audio performed marvelously by James Avery. I love Bud. He’s imaginative, intelligent, resourceful, well-mannered, curious, and ever-hopeful. He’s also quite the philosopher – having compiled a list of rules to live by. Curtis doesn’t gloss over the difficulties faced by many during the Great Depression, giving the reader a history lesson on the conditions in Hoovervilles across America. But he also shows that with determination, hard work, and compassion people survived the hardships and formed lasting bonds.
Tessa B C
The Dead and the Gone by Susan Beth Pfeffer
After an asteroid knocks the moon out of its orbit and closer to the Earth, conditions in New York City quickly deteriorate. High school junior Alex Morales finds his two younger sisters alone in their apartment. Thus begins their long ordeal, with Alex assuming the role of head of household, though barely more than a child himself. I liked this sequel to
Life As We Knew It somewhat better than the first book. I connected to Alex and his sisters and thought that they were written as fairly accurate portrayals of kids their age. The ending leaves the door open for continued sequels, which I find a little annoying, but certainly understandable in this genre.
Becky Haase
The Choice by Suzanne Woods Fisher
Much better written than many novels in the “Christian Lit” genre, THE CHOICE presents the life of an Amish community with an emphasis on the helpfulness and “family” feel of the members of the church as well as the all-encompassing structure of the faith. Carrie is fully developed, as are Mattie, Abel, and Esther. Some of the other characters are presented so briefly, or in such a strictly confined way, that they seem one dimensional. The plot is full of tension and is believable. The life of the community is a fully developed character itself and is essential to the plot.
sandi ward
Second Chance Dog: A Love Story by Jon Katz
Katz writes from the heart and pulls no bones about his failures and misgivings.
This memoir is a period of his life when he was very lonely and confused - divorcing his wife of 35 years and starting over. He was lucky enough to meet a wonderful woman - Maria - and her vicious dog, Frieda. The story gives the details of the bond between Maria and Frieda and Jon's patience at winning over this dog, who so alarmingly hates him.
Published in November of 2013, this novel will bring you to tears and will also have you laughing and sated with the warm feelings of love.
Great book for animal lovers. A must read.
Judy O.
Someone Else's Love Story by Joshilyn Jackson
I wanted to love this book, but I found it a little hard to follow in places and pretty unbelievable at times. The underlying story was intriguing, but I had some "What?" moments when I wasn't sure I liked what was happening. The writing was very poetic at times.
Crystal Blackburn
Murder, She Wrote: The A Deadly Judgement by Jessica Fletcher & Donald Bain
Jessica leaves Cabot Cove to be a jury consultant at a high-profile murder trial in Boston.
Wendy B. Clark
The Mitford Series by Jan Karon
This series has a great feel good, a little mystery, and descriptive writing.
kim johnston
The Invention of Wings by Sue Monk Kidd
I haven't read this, but being a bird owner, this title sounds interesting.
Linda Johnson
Five Days at Memorial by Sheri Fink
Boy! This one needs some think time to digest. Thank heavens the only disasters I have been in were a tornado in 1965 (not as horrific as the ones hitting Oklahoma this past 2 years) and the blizzard of 1978.
Fink knows how to tell the story to the nth detail. I know what I feel after reading this, but I have never been in, nor do I expect to be involved in anything like the catastrophe of post-Katrina.
Marsha
The Valley of Amazement by Amy Tan
This page-turner spans three generations of Mother-Daughter relationships and is placed in China and the U.S. It is a heart-breaking, sweeping epic of searching for identities fueled with betrayals, losses and misery, yet so engrossing that you will savor each episode.
Jan Zahrly
The Crossing Places by Elly Griffiths
A superior mystery. An archaeologist who lives near an ancient ruin, burial place, worship place - we are not certain of the exact usage by the Celts over 2000 years ago. The archaeologist, a college professor is called in to examine newly found bones and, over time, develops a relationship with the police detective. Lots of interesting tidbits about relics and several possible suspects - Ruth Galloway finally figures it all out when she is confronted with the truth about some people she loved and thought were her friends. The book takes place in a remote coastal area in England. A must read for mystery lovers. This is the first in a series of Ruth Galloway mysteries.
Reva Wamsley
Six Years by Harlan Coben
Six years ago, Jake, a college professor, was devastated when the love of his life married another man. When he read that the man she married had died, she goes to the funeral, hoping to catch a glimpse of the woman he loved. To his shock, the wife was not Natalie, but another woman & they had been married far longer than 6 years. He sets out trying to find her but finds out his life is in dangerous when he is kidnapped by 2 thugs who keep asking him where Natalie is. He escapes from them. When he called her sister, she told him not to call again & hung up on him. People keep telling him to leave it alone, that he is endangering other peoples' lives but he can't. Harlan Coben is a terrific writer. This book does not disappoint.
B. Klaassen
Still Life by Louise Penny
I read this book for an upcoming discussion group. The book started out being a slow, stumbling read. I get very frustrated by slow, stumbling books. About a fifth of the way through the book the paced picked-up and the story started to flow smoothly. The characters became really interesting at this point. Until the author revealed it, I did not know which character had committed the murder. I will seek out this author again in the future.
susan Spencer
Slay Bells and Satchels by Dorothy Howell
I love her fun books, they make me laugh.
susan Spencer
Read it and Weep by Jenn McKinlay
A good cozy mystery, light reading and interesting.
Susan Spencer
Orphan Train by Christina Baker Kline
An amazing, wonderful insightful book. I could not put this book down. It is a story that stays with you long after the last page. I have recommended it to everyone. So worth reading.
Susan Spencer
The World's Strongest Librarian by Josh Hanagarne
A true story about a man with tourette's. A story of courage and a will not to give up but succeed in life with what you are given.
Linda Johnson
Another Life by Michael Korda
How could I have let this book sit on my shelf for 15 years before reading it. What a treasure!
Michael Korda left the family business (films - one of his uncles was married to Merle Oberon) and became first, an editor for Simon and Schuster and while doing that, eventually became a successful author but published by Random House.
This book tells many back stories (not all of them flattering) of authors such as Jacqueline Susann, Harold Robbins, Bob Woodward and others who came to fame in other areas (i.e. President) before writing memoirs.
The rest of the world can have the Kardashians, Justin Bieber, and Miley Cyrus. This book involved my" rock stars."
Jo RN
Reconstructing Amelia by Kimberly McCreight
Mean girls at an exclusive prep school. A mother is determined to prove her daughter didn't commit suicide. Lots of twists and turns.
Jo RN
The Cutting Room by Jilianne Hoffman
Snuff films and serial killers. This started off slow but we once the story got good or stayed good.
Melanie S.
The Signature of All Things by Elizabeth Gilbert
What a pleasant surprise to read this fine book from the author of Eat, Pray, Love, a book that was so ridiculously self-indulgent and trite. I guess Ms. Gilbert really can write! The book tells of the life of Alma Whittaker, an unattractive but brilliant child/woman botanist. Her life's journey was fascinating and the story brilliantly conceived. I thought after reading the first 300 pages it would be a 5-star book for me, but while the story ended in a satisfying manner, the last 200 pages dragged on and probably could have used a bit of editing (in my humble opinion). Overall, though, this is a terrific book that I will be recommending.
Dan Sampeck
Fishing Yesterday's Gulf Coast by Barney Farley
A very enlightening and entertaining look at the historical aspects of fishing in the Port Aransas, Texas area.
Margie Saulsbury
Killing Jesus by Bill O'Reilly
Good historical background of the times of Jesus.
Donna Doyle
Casual Vacancy by J.K Rowling
I was immediately taken into this book and story. You really know the characters and either like them or not. Recommend to anyone. JK knows how to write.
Donna Shaw
The Forgotten Garden by Kate Morton
A lengthy book that keeps you turning the page to see what is next. A story covering a period of about 100 years of a family seeking answers. It is a well-written puzzle that carries you along from the beginning to the end.
Brady
What's So Funny: My Hilarious Life by Tim Conway
If you want to laugh, and laugh a lot, you should read this book as it is filled with events in the author's life and circumstances created by Tim that force you to laugh. His life seems filled with treasures of human communication and companionship that many others find wanting. It's 245 pages of fun.
Brady
Backstage Pass To Broadway: True Tales from a Theatre Press Agent by Susan L. Schulman
For those who can never get enough information about show biz on Broadway, this is the book for you. The author has many stories to tell regarding her experience dealing with theatre-types from actors to production artists. The pleasures and plights are dealt with here in an entertaining way.
Francisca E B
Becoming Queen Victoria by Kate Williams
This is a book-club selection for me and I don’t think I would have picked it up otherwise. The subtitle gives you all the description you need: The Tragic Death of Princess Charlotte and the Unexpected Rise of Britain’s Greatest Monarch. While I enjoyed reading about all the intrigue and politics involved as various royals (major and minor) realized the possibilities of ascension to the throne and jockeyed for position, I grew bored with the detail and intricacies of all those relatives and mingling of family trees. However, once Victoria reached majority and became Queen (some 200 pages into the book), I was fully involved.
Heather Fineisen
Guests on Earth by Lee Smith
I am partial to Ms. Smith but this is one of her best. The setting of a famed Asheville, NC mental hospital that treated Zelda Fitzgerald provides a southern slant on a historical review of mental illness and Appalachian living beginning in the 1930's. Evalina Toussaint is a character that you will fall in love with as well many of the other personalities at the Highland Hospital .
Lynn W
The Supremes at Earl's All-You-Can-Eat by Edward Kelsey Moore
Rollicking good story of three life-long friends in a small community in southern Indiana. I'm always a little leery picking up a book about women written by a man, but this author got it right.
3 and 1/2 stars
Celia Triemstra
Starless Night by R.A. Salvatore
This book is part of a long series of books, all which have been excellent so far. This particular novel bring suspense and adventure. So far it has kept me guessing and engaged. The writing is fairly well done, but the content of the story makes up for any writing flaws that may be present.
Tessa B C
Brava Valentine by Adriana Trigiani
Audio book performed by Cassandra Campbell. Trigiani returns to tell the continuing story of Valentine Roncalli and Angelini Shoes. I like Trigiani’s chick-lit books. They’re fast reads, full of the every-day drama of life. The Roncalli family members are loud, boisterous, cantankerous, gossipy, emotional and frequently in each other’s business. Relationships are forged and broken. Valentine struggles with her own fears – of being alone, of trusting too much, of not measuring up, of failing, of succeeding. But every dress, shoe, handbag, lamp, sofa, etc is described is exquisite and excruciating detail. It was lovely to read the first time, but after a while I just wanted to skip over all that and get to the plot.
Tessa B C
Salvage the Bones by Jesmyn Ward
As the novel opens, hurricane Katrina is threatening the Mississippi home of the Batiste family – Claude (a widower) and his four children. This family struggles with personal storms, too: the death of their wife/mother, the bone-crushing poverty and lack of opportunity, the father’s increasing reliance on alcohol to numb his pain and despair. There is much here that should make a gripping work of literary fiction. I generally love books like this, but this one left me feeling decidedly “meh.” And I’m having trouble defining why. I didn’t relate to the characters and the plot was very slow. All in all the book left me feeling dissatisfied. I appreciate Ward’s writing, but I didn’t love it.
Kathy Vallee
Blackberry Crumble by Josi S. Kilpack
Sadie decided to go with her Boyfriend to help take care of his grandchildren while their parents went to look for their house closer to his new job . After the boys tell Sadie that the person living across the road is a witch , Sadie watches her digging holes in her yard next to the sidewalk in the dark. On the next night she tells her boyfriend she is going over to see if she can help cause the lady looks like she is in a lot of pain it becomes even more strange every time they see her
Stacey K
Life After Life by Kate Atkinson
One of the best books I have ever read! Unique, funny, heartbreaking, unable to put down. I would love to see this book made into a movie!
Marsha
Just One Evil Act by Elizabeth George
Inspector Lynley is back and doing his best to save Barbara Haver's job. Barbara's neighbor's daughter has been kidnapped and she traces her to Lucca, Italy. Dealing with the Italian police is a first for both Lynley and Havers. What transpires after a person does what he feels is right, has many people is jeopardy as a result. It takes 708 pages to unravel this complicated problem and the read is well worth the time spent.
Judy O.
Best Kept Secret by Amy Hatvany
The subject in this fascinating book is an alcoholic mother who loses custody of her small child to the child's father. One thing that makes it so interesting is that the author says she is speaking from experience. Really well-done, gripping story.
Donna Shaw
Once We Were Brothers by Ronald H. Balson
A Jewish family living in Poland, takes in a young German boy and considers him as a son and brother in the early 1930's. WWII comes into their village and the situation gets complicated. Sixty years later, after many betrayals, Ben Solomon claims that a prominent, wealthy man living in Chicago and is a Nazi Officer and guilty of war crimes. This is a well-written novel and you can't put it down.
Darlene
The Good Daughters by Joyce Maynard
A rewarding intelligent family story, with a little more substance than is usual in its genre. Two very different daughters from two very different families have a lifelong bond they don't understand. As adults their lives veer along different though satisfying lines. Meanwhile, members of their birth families also bring changes. Eventually a long buried secret is revealed.
Lynn W
The Signature of All Things by Elizabeth Gilbert
Uneven. I loved some parts, others I skimmed. Some repetition--think the author was determined to have a 500-page book. That said I really liked the characters--all of them.
Josh
Instant Whips and Dream Toppings. A true-life dom rom com by Jacky Donovan
For the first time someone has written a genuinely DIFFERENT book about BDSM. This one is the autobiography of a London dominatrix and focuses on humour as its core differentiator. The author relates many bizarre and extremely funny sessions with her submissive clients and handles all issues sensitively and with honesty. It's set against a backdrop of her often difficult personal life which she addresses in a warmhearted, honest and refreshingly funny way whilst retaining the warmth and empathy of the reader. It has many laugh out loud and clever lines in it and was a joy to read from cover to cover. Thankfully bears no relation to 50 Shades or any similar ilk books. It feels genuine and funny, honest and believable.
shelly itkin
The Quaker and the Rebel by Mary Ellis
Emily Harrison grew up in Ohio and once her parents died in an accident and the home she lived in was sold in foreclosure she was alone and had to find a way to support herself.. She decides to take a position as a governess with a doctor’s family in Virginia. Her duties are to teach Margaret and Annie manners and their lessons as well.
Being brought up a Quaker she is not used to the drinking, gambling, swearing or other things that go on in fancy houses. What she wants to do is just continue the work her parents did and that was to help slaves thru the Underground Railroad to become free. Danger is around the corner but she is dedicated to the mission and will not give up.
Lynn Hough
Night Film by Marisha Pessi
This very well could end up being my favorite book in 2014. I loved it!!! Very well written. It makes you think, and then rethink what you thought you knew.
Lynn Hough
Fourth Sunday by B.W. Read
The story line had potential but it was poorly written. If I wasn't reading it for my bookclub, I probably wouldn't have finished it.
Marsha
Envy by Sandra Brown
Explosive tale of a crime committed many years ago affecting best friends. Jump ahead to the lives of a couple of interesting characters and try to figure out how they are related. Rather racy but quick fun reading.
Linda Reck
The Signature of All Things by Elizabeth Gilbert
This novel was meticulously researched and exquisitely written. It was completely engrossing - up to a point. Alma, a caring and considerate person who becomes a world-class botanist. She became interested in botany at a young age and when she becomes an adult, she commits herself to ceaseless botanical study. This is where the book lost me. Alma's knowledge of the various types of moss is unstoppable. Unfortunately for me, I don't have Alma's vigorous and exciting desire to know all that it is possible about moss. I became mired in moss and didn't finish the book.
B.Klaassen
The River of No Return by Bee Ridgway
I enjoyed this new author. The story started and ended very slowly because the author did a lot of describing of characters and setting. The middle of the story was full of adventure. This was a very entertaining story. I enjoyed the touch of romance in the story. I hope this author continues to write books.
Walter Kretzmann
NOS4A2 by Joe Hill
Kudos to Joe Hill for a fabulous novel. Joe always writes well and this is no exception. The story builds slowly and that's OK - you keep wanting to read 'just one more chapter' from the very beginning. Once the story hits full speed, it doesn't stop and the ride in NOS4A2 is crazy. Joe works in references to his dad's work, which I love and provides excellent continuity in their shared universe. The protagonist is relatable and likeable, the villain is larger that life and scarier than almost anything else out there. Even if you are new to Joe Hill's work, I urge you to pick this up and give it a try - It is in my top 10 books for 2013 and I read a lot! Let me know what you think in comments.
Becky Haase
City of the Sun by Juliana Maio
This book started as a good, well thought out war time spy thriller with a little romance thrown in. Then three fourth of the way through a couple of needless hot and heavy sex scenes appeared that seemed out of character for Maya and unnecessary for the story line. Then the ending just got unbelievable. It seemed as though the author ran out of steam and did a quick and dirty ending with coincidence and unreal situations abounding.
The characters – Maya, a Jewish refugee trying to get to Palestine with her scientist brother; Mickey, an American newspaperman turned spy; Kesner, a German spy looking for the brother, and a host of minor characters - were well fleshed out with clear voices and actions.
Walter Kretzmann
The Last Coyote by Michael Connelly
Michael Connelly does not disappoint his faithful with this one. It was a great chance to learn a little bit more about a character that is close to my heart.
During a leave from duty Bosch delves deep into his past to make sense of his mother's murder (and hopefully find the killer).
While the action is quick and the writing is strong what really makes this Connelly book stand out is that we really learn what makes Bosch tick. The title is also great - it has a double meaning, it signifies how Harry sees himself as well as the earthquake ravaged LA neighborhood in which Bosch resides - he has a coyote that visits his hillside home from time to time.
A very enjoyable read.
Bonnie
The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt
Engaging enough novel, but the main character, Theo, isn't all that likeable. Bottom line, I'm 3/4 finished with the novel and I'm putting it aside to read book club books. If I don't finish it, I'll be fine with that.
B. Klaassen
My One Square Inch of Alaska by Sharon Short
This story had a sad undertone. The emotions in the story ran from low to high and back to low. As a reader I was drawn into the story and I didn't want to stop reading until I had reached the end of the book. I found the characters to be believable. This author writes an interesting story.
Francisca E B
The Red House Mystery by A. A. Milne
3.5 Stars - Delightful cozy, "locked room" mystery, with a manor house, a disgraced brother back from Australia, an innocent bystander turned amateur sleuth, and a cunning murderer. Not quite Dame Christie, but it kept me guessing.
Sara
Save Yourself by Kelly Braffet
This books starts out with a horrific life changing event and then just gets stranger from there. I love the writing style of this author. She was able to give great descriptions of people and and events without being to wordy. All of the characters seemed like they were picked up off of the streets and placed into the book. I highly recommend this book.
Phyllis
The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion
The Rosie Project is fun, light reading on cold days that will warm your heart. Don, a socially inept genetics professor, is a dear and his quest to find a perfect wife is funny and charming. Unconventional Rosie drops into his life and he finds all his perceptions being challenged.
Walter Kretzmann
The Dummy Line by Bobby Cole
Bobby Cole hit a home run with this one! His characters are real and it doesn't stretch the imagination much at all to make this story believable. Most of the characters are very much like folks I have known over the years and he has the locale "spot on." I highly recommend this read!
Walter Kretzmann
Winger by Andrew Smith and Sam Bosma
The characters are potentially interesting but there are way too many unlikely/impossible situations in this book for it to be completely believable.
Walter Kretzmann
Ranchero by Rick Gavin
I kept falling asleep while reading! Too drawn out and a bit to silly for my liking,
No recommendation from me!
Walter Kretzmann
The 5th Wave by Rick Yancey
If you love books about aliens you'll adore this one! It tells the story from the point of view of the two main characters. It is suspenseful, has romance, and you won't be able to put it down. Can't wait till the sequel comes out!
Kathleen Smith
Lost Lake by Sarah Addison Allen
Whenever I read this author's books I make new friends. Her writing is magical. The other book you have here to win and that is The Invention of Wings....
Walter Kretzmann
Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell
I'm normally not reading many romance books but Eleanor & Park was amazing. I thought about my first love and how you think things will last forever, but reality doesn't work that way. The book was very well written. The characters are relatable and so are the situations. You will laugh, smile, get upset, be sad, and maybe even cry.
Miriam Boots
Teatime for the Firefly by Shona Patel
Lyrical historical novel set in India on a remote Tea Plantation during WW2. The love story of Layla and Manik unfolds in an exotic setting and the author weaves a beguiling unforgettable story.
Jan Zahrly
The Various Haunts of Men by Susan Hill
This is the first in the Simon Serrailler mystery series. We meet all the people who are around Simon, a police detective, as he searches for some lost women. Some of the police recognize similar attributes about the disappearances and the story is based on their various personalities and moral values. There are many suspects and there is concern that the women have been killed. Is this missing persons or murder? We get the answer in a very fast-paced few last pages. But it is enough to know that the Simon Serrailler series will continue. A great read for mystery buffs.
Paula
Murder Code by Steve Mosby
Such a great book. I read alot of detective, suspense books and this one had a twist that I have never read in a book before. Looking for more by this author. I would highly recomend it if you like suspense.
Jan Zahrly
People of the Book by Geraldine Brooks
A beautifully written book about an actual book - the Haggadah (a Jewish book of prayers) that was rediscovered in Sarajevo after the war. It was hidden several times and was hunted by Hitler's forces, seeking to destroy Jewish manuscripts.
Brooks has written fiction and taken the book back to its creation, with many escapes and many characters. This fiction covers five hundred years and develops many characters. After all the history and detail about book creation and restoration, the book becomes a mystery. It is well worth reading. Keep a notepad nearby to keep track of the characters.
A good read for one who is not enamored of historical fiction.
Melissa Monahan
Burial Rites by Hannah Kent
Very interesting novel about the last woman executed in Iceland in 1829.
Melissa Pierce
Saving Juliet by Suzanne Selfors
This is a YA novel typically but as young twenty year old. I still found it very interesting for a girl who loves theater shows, Shakespeare and reading. Love stories especially. This star-crossed modern novel is for you.
Jamie Love
Divergent by Veronica Roth
Absolutely loved it! Looking forward to reading the rest of the series as well as seeing the movie this spring.
Laurie Iglesias
The Vicar's Wife by Katharine Swartz
I absolutely ADORED this book! A book is worthy of a 5 star review from me if: 1) It makes me laugh and/or cry, 2) I can't put it down, or I can't wait to pick it up again, and 3) It causes me to pause throughout reading and reflect on lessons learned. This book covered all three points and thus I award it 5 stars. I loved the way the author told the story of two families living somewhat similar lives albeit decades apart. The story was always interesting and kept you wondering and guessing how things would turn out for both families. There was no foul language which is always a plus for me. It was so refreshing to read such a charming and solid work of fiction.
shelly itkin
Candelight Christmas by Susan Wiggs
Ms. Wiggs has written a wonderful and heart warming story about second chances, finding love when you are not looking for it and realizing everything is never going to be perfect. However, if we are lucky it almost is.
Logan O’Donnell is the most wonderful father he could be to his son. Since the divorce he only see Charlie for holidays and the entire summer. This winter Logan has made changes in his life and now wants to share them all with his family and most importantly his son, Charlie.
They had lived in a magical town called Avalon, which is located on the shores of Willow Lake. Since Logan is divorced from Charlie’s mother, who is remarried, he wants a perfect Christmas for Charlie this year.
Trez
Predator by Patricia Cornwell
A page turner. I have 30 pages to finish and I still can't figure this one out. A lot of hints but it has so many twists and turns. This is one of Patricia Cornwell's best. You will enjoy this if you like mysteries.
Marsha
Full Black by Brad Thor
Action-packed as always are the Scot Harvath novels. Harvath belongs to the Carlton group that operates under the radar in co-operation with several of our nation's high level organizations. Scot is tasked to save the nation as the destruction of our infrastructure is in jeopardy. Intense and frighteningly realistic, it will give you much to ponder.
Cindy Norton
Traveling with Pomegranates by Sue Monk Kidd
Love this journey - what a wonderful trip for mother and daughter - their trip resonates with their inner journey through life.
Dianne Kline
The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion
A quirky read that is very entertaining. A look at a different mind and his approach to courtship.
Linda Johnson
Johnny Carson by Henry Bushkin
The author was Johnny's lawyer for 18 years whose name became part of a punch line for some jokes ("bombastic Bushkin"). Although Bushkin took that in good humor, not all of dealings with Johnny ended with mirth.
The behind the scenes information is interesting, but Bushkin is not an excellent writer. By the last time he writes that Carson did not others to fawn over him, I wanted to shout, "I get it. I get it."
Nothing here was really a surprise, except perhaps, how much one man gave up to serve the other.
Jeannie Tungate
The Art of Hearing Heartbeats by Jan-Phillip Sendker
A lovely story than takes place in Burma and New York and will touch you deeply. It is a story of how a man keeps his past a secret from his family and the love and loss that he endured.
Crystal R Blackburn
Murder, She Wrote: A Vote for Murder by Jessica Fletcher & Donald Bain
Jessica goes to Washington, DC to support a literacy campaign championed by her senator and his wife. The wife is friends with Jessica in Maine. A senate staff member is murdered at a party at the senator's house with Jessica in attendance. Guess who finds the body?
Cathy Manning
11/22/63 by Stephen King
A tale of time travel to the max - it really makes you think about dimensions and time. What if? Excellent story about changing the past...and is it a good idea?!
