This contest period's winners were Brenda H., Debbie M., Kathy V., Marion P. and Pat C., who each received a copy of BLOSSOM STREET BRIDES: A Blossom Street Novel by Debbie Macomber, I’VE GOT YOU UNDER MY SKIN by Mary Higgins Clark, and TEMPTING FATE by Jane Green.
Robin Hall
The Kitchen House by Kathleen Grissom
Very good. Interesting insight in relationships back in the 1800s. For instance, once someone moves away (or a slave is sold to another owner), will you ever see that person again?
Reva Wamsley
Dorchester Terrace by Anne Perry
One of a series of books about Thomas & Charlotte Pitt. This book takes place in 1896 London. Thomas is now the head of the Special Branch, which investigates threats to England. Clues start coming in that an Austrian duke, coming to London for a visit, may be under a treat of an assassination. Since he doesn't seem to be relevant as far as politics go, no one understands why anyone would want to kill him. In the meantime, an elderly Italian woman, is ill & suffering from dementia. She's a former revolutionary spy & is worried she may reveal some secret from the past to someone who isn't supposed to know of these things.
Julie Mackey
Healer: A Novel by Carol Cassella
I liked the message in this book but thought it was a slow read.
Laura Busch
The In-Between Hour by Barbara Claypole White
Wonderful story of relationships, grief and finding your way back to life.
Kai Wong
What Nora Knew by Linda Yellin
What Nora Knew is in tradition of When Harry Meet Sally, Sleepless in Seattle and You Got Mail. It is about a journalist who has been jaded by her divorce and meeting Cameron, a famous novelist. It is rediscovering romance and finding someone who is really meant for you.
I do have to say that Nora has a bad impression of Cameron. There are bits and pieces from these three movies. I just love the quote from Cameron that the audience knows the ending to the three movies but it is the journey they enjoyed with the characters to reach that ending.
Priscilla Reilly
The Girl You Left Behind by Jo Jo Moyes
This is an astonishing historical fiction novel that connects the past with the present. The first part is seen through a woman in occupied France in 1916 and the second from the eyes of a woman in present day London. The author paints a sober picture of a French town during WWI and their inhabitants, the impact of Nazi occupation, and how a picture links all of this to modern day London.
Diane Porter
A Star for Mrs. Blake by April Smith
Entertaining and informative. The characters are well drawn, and the reader is pulled into the story by Smith's choice of words. A history lesson about mothers of American soldiers killed in WWI. I would highly recommend this book for book clubs.
Bonnie Tollefson
The Absence of Mercy by John Burley
A mystery that is not cozy. Makes you think too.
Sarah Chao
Kitchen by Banana Yoshimoto
This book focuses on the theme of grief and how it affects the lives of people that are filled with grief. With two sections, it describes the life of a girl named Mikage and another named Satsuki. Both very different characters yet both lose a loved one. I liked this book because it was short and easy and still presented a deep understanding about death. The author leaves the reader wondering about life and existence. Great for anyone looking for something sweet and meaningful.
Ruth
The Secret Keeper by Kate Morton
I loved all the twists and turns in this book that alternates between 1941 and 2011 and look forward to reading the author's earlier books.
Dorothy Boyum
The Husband's Secret by Liane Moriarty
Excellent book. It keeps your interest throughout and you can't even began to guess the ending. A must read!
Bobbie Davis
Orphan Train by Christina Baker Kline
Just read it for book club. Really good book and well liked by all. No one was aware of what really happened. Historical fiction is my favorite thing! Just sent my copy to my daughter who asked me for it.
Gini Saville
Whiskey Beach by Nora Roberts
Would be a good summer beach read...romance/mystery.
Muriel Logan
Cutting for Stone by Abraham Verghese
At times, descriptions of medical procedures and situations were a little more detailed than I would have preferred, but I found the book interesting. I enjoy historical fiction and books about family relationships. This story of twins, Shiva and Marion, set in Ethiopia during upheaval in that country, provides many incidents to pique a person's interest and keep you reading.
Marion Peterman
Patience Betrayed by Olivia Andem
This is the author's second book in her Hawthorne series. It is set in the time of Jane Austin. The author has done considerable research to make the reader familiar with the culture, architecture, apparel and the political atmosphere of this period in English history. She has incorporated various incidents that interfere with Patience's impending wedding. These leave you rooting for the heroine.
Wendy Jensen
How Blended are Dust and Fire by Kieran McKendrick and Soheil Toosi
This is a prequel to the Purgatory Series and if this book is any indication, the series is going to be fantastic. I found it a very good read. Interesting with lots of twists and turns. Can't wait to read the series.
Tessa B C
The ABC Murders by Agatha Christie
3.5*** This is another wonderful mystery from the Queen of detective fiction – Dame Agatha Christie. Hercule Poirot is at the top of his game following the clues to identify a serial killer who is taunting him with letters. The novel is narrated by his friend and colleague Captain Hastings. Hugh Fraser does a marvelous job performing the audio book.
Debbie Smith
The Year of the Flood by Margaret Atwood
This is the 2nd book in the series. It continues with the same characters as they survive after a horrific "end of the world", which has parallels to what drug companies and cloning tests are doing today. I love this author's work, and this series is her best yet.
Dottie Legatos
Missing You by Harlan Coben
Excellent! This was a thrilling, edge of your seat page turner! Another winner from Mr. Coben.
Linda Rimkunos
A Step of Faith by Richard Paul Evans
A wonderful 4th (in a series of 5) books about a man's walk across the US, walking away from a tragedy and toward a future unknown but with the promise of faith in the goodness of mankind and guidance of God.
susan gannon
Tomorrow's Treasure by Linda Lee Chaikin
This book is about undying love and heavenly goodness. I was mesmorized.
Lynn W
You Must Remember This by Robert J. Wagner
Marvelous book about "Life and Style in Hollywood's Golden Age."
Susan Kellett
Shotgun Lovesongs by Nickolas Butler
Well written, great development of characters. I didn't find it riveting. Not sure, but think men might enjoy it more.
Pat Pascale
Beauty by Frederick Dillen
She was called the Beast because she was a corporate "undertaker" for Baxter Blume, a New York City mergers and acquisitions firm. Carol Maclean travels from factory to factory telling the workers they no longer have a job or a company. On her last burial of a fish company in a desperate fishing town, she learns that her promise of a company of her own is not to be and she is fired. An exciting story about how she and the town buy the company, and against all odds, begin to bring it back. A romance between the town's best fishermen, Captain
"Easy" Parsons and Carol adds to the plots and sub-plots of this absorbing book, and the ending will have you jumping up and clapping. Frederick Dillen tells a heart-warming story. Great read.
Mary Rodriguez
The Voices of Heaven by Maija Rhee Devine
A love story during the Korean War and the tragedies of the war.
Wendi Martin
Dead Between the Lines by Denise Swanson
This was a fun mystery that takes place in a dime store that owner Dev lets clubs use to help make ends meet. One of the local book clubs meets there one evening where the guest speaker is not so well received and ends up dead behind her store.
Elaine Beierbach
I've Got You Under My Skin by Mary Higgins Clark
I love the suspense.
Anne Coneeney
The Invention of Wings by Sue Monk Kidd
Sue Monk Kidd has, in my mind, written her greatest book. Her descriptions of the times, the characters, and the setting places the reader into an intriguing era of American History. Conditions of slavery are exposed and one almost feels while reading that they are part of the story. It was difficult to put the book down.
dennis beierbach
I've Got You Under My SKin by Mary Higgins Clark
Great story by the Queen of Suspense.
Linda Reck
The Accident by Chris Pavone
.The Accident is a clever fast-paced novel. Isabel Reed, a literary agent, received a mysterious package, a novel written by Anonymous. As she finishes the book, she knows she has a important novel, the book of lifetime. There are those men in power who want all 15 copies of the novel to be destroyed. This suspenseful and explosive novel had me turning the pages quickly. In one day, all of these men want access to the novel to destroy it. I was hooked from page one. The novel took place in one day, and I kept on wanting to know what happens to the manuscript and who would end up with it.
Jean
Shadows of a Down East Summer by Lea Wait
I really enjoyed this mystery surrounding antiques, art, and old family history. Of course, the coast of Maine setting is what will draw you in.
Sherrie English
The Art of Fielding by Chad Harbach
This novel reads like a mini series and would make a wonderful mini series. The characters are remarkably likable. In spite of its 500 pages, it reads so very fast because you are living this story as they are. A fab read!
Kathy Boucher
Lost in Shangri-La by Mitchell Zuckoff
This is an amazing true story! An incredible survival story of the victims of a plane crash in Dutch New Guinea in 1945, and the arduous and emotional rescue mission to save them. Zuckoff has drawn from interviews, declassified Army documents, one of the survivor's diary, and other true documents to tell this tale of how the injured survived in a mysterious jungle inhabited with "Stone-Age" tribesmen, and the bravery of those trying to rescue them.
MJ
The Execution by Dick Wolf
Dick Wolf is a name known to all for his TV series. This is his second book in the Jeremy Fisk series. The Intercept was the first. Both are terrific reads. Jeremy is on the Intelligence Squad in NYC, which combats terrorism. Engrossing story with a good moral question to ponder.
Janis Apgar
Winter's Tale by Mark Helprin
The descriptive writing and detail in this book is good. However, almost too much detail, and I found it somewhat confusing. I'm not sure I truly understood it! It did keep me "hooked" enough to finish all 748 pages though!!
Susan Wilkes
The Kitchen House by Kathleen Grissom
A worthwhile read to see a "truer" side of slavery in the South.
Marsha
The Heist by Janet Evanovich & Lee Goldberg
Great fun. Our FBI heroine, Kate O' Hare, who has chased the handsome con man, Nick Fox, has finally caught him and is forced by her superiors to team up with him to entrap a corrupt investment banker who is hiding on a private island in Indonesia. Let's hope we hear more from the exciting team of O'Hare and Fox. Great play on names in this caper.
Helen Duncan
The Tower, The Zoo, and The Tortoise by Julia Stuart
A little bit of everything - a combination of humor, along with a lively imagination and some historical facts. The author has produced a very amusing story of the Tower of London and its residents.
Sharon Lumb
The Perfume Collector by Kathleen Tessaro
The book alternates between the story of Eva, who lives in the 1920s, and Grace, who lives in the 1950s. At first the stories are a bit confusing, but then I found myself fascinated with the plot lines, wondering how the main characters will meet. I was a bit disappointed with the ending, which I felt did not answer many questions. While I found that there was fault in the storyline, I discovered that I had finished the book in a few enjoyable days.
michele
The Power Trip by Jackie Collins
I couldn't put the book down. The very beginning went slow, but you wanted to keep reading to see what would happen next.
robin fuller
Sycamore Row by John Grisham
This excellent book is a follow up to A Time To Kill. Exciting to read!
Joy Bean
The Divorce Papers by Susan Rieger
Oh, how I love an epistolary novel, and this one is meaty and so well done.
Sandy Daily
Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand
Well researched and written. An amazing story of Louis Zamperini and his survival in a horrific Japanese POW camp
Jan Zahrly
The Story of Beautiful Girl by Rachel Simon
This is a beautiful novel about people who have various disabilities. It covers most aspects of their frustration, trying to live in a world that does not understand them. There is cruelty, evil, goodness. The book is written by a woman who has a sister with disabilities. Prepare for tears, anger, pain as you move through the kindnesses and evils of the world.
The book is well written and should leave us thankful for all of our blessings. This is an excellent book for book discussion groups.
Judy O.
A Well-Tempered Heart by Jan-Philipp Sendker
This is the sequel to THE ART OF HEARING HEARTBEATS. An American attorney, who has a brother in Burma, goes back to that country on a peculiar mission. She needs to find the source of the strange voice that has invaded her soul. The last thing she expected to find was love. Both of these books are beautiful and special.
JoRn
I, Michael Bennett by James Patterson
I found it hard to get into. I really like the Alex Cross and Women's Murder club books. I will stick with those books.
Deborah Koenig
Missing You by Harlan Coben
Loved the book! Read it in just 2 days and was sad when I finished. Now have to find another to hold my interest.
Debbie M
Lookaway, Lookaway by Wilton Barnhardt
I have attempted to read this book twice, but to no avail. The storyline carries no interesting plot. I deplored the male university hazing rituals and the female university husband hunting. I honestly tried to push myself to read, but finally surrendered.
Carol Stroup
The Invention of Wings by Sue Monk Kidd
I loved this book. It was well written, unpredictable, and I thought the character development was superb.
Debbie Maskus
Too Many Cooks by Rex Stout
Rex Stout's style reminds me of Raymond Chandler in the language and vocabulary. Of course, Chandler and Stout have created two different types of detectives, and I enjoy each writer's creation. Chandler writes of California, while Stout's Nero Wolfe operates from New York. I enjoyed learning about haute cuisine and Archie Goodwin's every man approach to the festivities. Archie Goodwin relates the proceedings in a manner of the journal of Doctor Watson, explaining the cases of Sherlock Holmes. The comparison between Holmes and Wolfe jumps to mind, as both men are extremely intelligent and observant. Sir Conan Doyle invents a better story.
colin beierbach
I've Got You Under My SKin by Mary Higgins Clark
Loved it.
denise beierbach
I've Got You Under My SKin by Mary Higgins Clark
I want more!
Jan
Oliver Twist by Charles Dickens
Dickens writing style was a little difficult to follow at times with lengthy sentences and lots of commas. Writing style of the times, I am sure. The story was a good read though. It kept me interested and on the edge of my seat. The characters were strong, and I found myself feeling scared, sympathetic and looking for justice for Oliver. A good book I will probably read again.
Linda Harrison
Once in a Lifetime by Jill Shalvis
I love all of the Lucky Harbor series, and this latest book is one of the best. The main characters are Aubrey Wellington and Ben McDaniel. Aubrey had been a mean-spirited person in her younger days and is trying to make amends to the people she hurt. Ben has returned from war-torn regions to settle once again in Lucky Harbor, but this time with no plans for any sort of commitment. Then he is hired to remodel the bookstore that Aubrey runs, and they are attracted to each other. Both swear no commitment, but fate has other plans.
Linda Harrison
The Counterfeit Agent by Alex Berenson
The CIA receives a tip at its Istanbul office that material used to make a nuclear bomb is to be smuggled into the United States where the bomb is to be assembled and used as a threat. Something seems off about the information and John Wells, ex-CIA agent, has been tasked with finding the truth. Information received from a source in South America indicates a former CIA agent could be involved. What would make a former US agent turn against his country? The book has a lot of action and keeps you in suspense as Wells finds the truth.
Linda Harrison
Sycamore Row by John Grisham
When a white man is found hanging from a sycamore tree, rumors abound in the small town of Clanton, Mississippi. The next day, Jake Brigance received a handwritten letter and will from Seth Hubbard. The will left most of his substantial fortune to his black housekeeper. In addition, the will specifically stated that no funds were to be given to his son, his daughter, or their children. Fresh from his victory with the Carl Lee Hailey verdict, Jake has been handed an explosive new case.
Linda Harrison
The Perfect Match by Kristan Higgins
Honor Holland has just been rebuffed by the man she has loved since they were children. When she is offered a second chance at marriage, she accepts. This time, she will marry a man to keep him from being deported back to England. Since his work visa will not be renewed, Tom Barlow will go to extremes in order to stay in the States and be near his stepson. Theirs was to just be a business arrangement, but fate had other plans.
Linda Harrison
Covet by Tracey Garvis Graves
A well-written book about a couple whose marriage almost ended with the loss of the husband’s job. Chris spent so much time trying to find a job that he had no time left for his wife. His wife Claire started meeting with a good-looking policeman who had time to listen to her. Chris finally realizes that his wife and family were really all that mattered.
Summer Grinstead
Hopeless by Colleen Hoover
Amazing. I can't stop thinking about it.
Gail Anastasio
Mary's Mosaic by Peter Janney and Dick Russell
This book was a real eye-opener as to the abuse of power by some in the CIA. It deals with the conspiracy to kill President Kennedy and also Mary Mayer, his most beloved girlfriend. These individuals had no hesitancy in framing others for murders they had committed.
Nancy Hausladen
Stone Cold Dead by Catherine Dilts
This is a new author to me, and I am always happy when I find someone that I enjoy. This is a mystery (light) that takes place in a small tourist town in the west. Morgan is the owner of a rock shop. A young woman is killed, and they uncover many things looking for the killer.
Jennifer Hernandez
On Dublin Street by Samantha Young
I had read good reviews about this book, but was leery about reading it since when I searched for this book, books like 50 Shades of Grey would be in the 'Readers who bought this also bought this' section. Not that there is anything wrong with the new sexy, slightly hardcore writing that is in style; it just isn't my cup of tea. But this book was more than just the sex scenes. It had a good back story and while the female lead annoyed me with some of her actions, it actually fit with how her character was set up with the back story. I love it when a character doesn't change who they are halfway through a book! I can't wait to read another Samantha Young book and hope she keeps up the good work!
Elaine Rizzo
Between Sisters by Kristin Hannah
I always enjoy Kristin Hannah books. This was a tear-jerker at the end.
Connie Blain
What You Wish For by Fern Michaels
Hooked on her Sisterhood books, but while waiting for the next one I happened to get this one. It was just as interesting as they all are. Had me right from the start and found it hard to put down. Can't wait to pass it on to my friend who is also a Fern Michaels fan.
Elaine
The Orphan Train by Christina Baker Kline
The story itself blew me away. I lived in New York and never heard of this happening. Christina brings these orphans to life and makes you care what happens to them. I will read other books about this particular time in our history.
B.Klaassen
The Roots of the Olive Tree by Courtney Miller Santo
This book that told the story of many generations peaked my interest. The author was new to me. I thought it would be more difficult to keep the generations straight, but this author made it easy to follow. I enjoyed the bits of history about olives that were sprinkled throughout the book. This book had some stand-on-their-own-feet characters. If the author does write another book, I plan to try and read it.
Susan Spencer
Second Honeymoon by James Patterson
I love how Mr. Patterson writes. A fast-paced page-turner.
Elizabeth
The Big Over Easy by Jasper Fforde
The idea of nursery rhyme characters in a hard-boiled crime novel is brilliant. However, I think Fforde was a bit too taken with the idea. While the puns and references are fun, the overstuffed story could have been cut by at least 100 pages.
Laura Beierbach
I've Got You Under My SKin by Mary Higgins Clark
I love her storytelling.
elaine beierbach
I've Got You Under My SKin by Mary Higgins Clark
I love a good mystery.
Tessa B C
The Well of Lost Plots by Jasper Fforde
This is book #3 in the Thursday Next series. I love the inventive plots in this series, the numerous literary references, and unexpected (though perfect) pairings (i.e. Miss Havisham reading Heathcliff the riot act). They are fast-paced, action-packed, intricate and highly entertaining. However, the U.S. Edition had a special bonus chapter which did nothing to further the plot or series. Elizabeth Sastre does a wonderful job of performing the audio version.
Ruth Ann Noe
As Young As We Feel by Melody Carlson
Pure escapism for middle- aged and older women. A story of four childhood friends reunited at a high school reunion. Melody Carlson is a Christian author, but this story is not preachy. First book in "The Four Lindas" series.
Andrea Lapsley
The Chaperone by Laura Moriarty
Wonderful depiction of the early 1900s. Twists, turns and well-developed characters that you can relate to.
Patricia Miller
Sister by Rosamund Lupton
This was the best book I've read in years. I could not put it down! I have a feeling that the fact that I have sisters myself made my opinion a bit biased because I could so completely relate to much of what the main character was feeling. But either way, I think anyone would love this book. Highly recommend!
Patricia Miller
Dark Places by Gillian Flynn
I really enjoyed this book. I don't know that I loved it quite as much as Gone Girl, but I think it was an excellent follow-up. It's really a page turner - I had a hard time putting it down! I'm kind of surprised that I liked it as much as I did because none of the characters are truly likeable people. But that's a lot how Gone Girl was too, I suppose. I would definitely recommend this book.
Marsha
Frozen Heat by Richard Castle
Kudos to the ghost writer or writers who put out these Nikki Heat novels. They are deftly plotted, thrilling and character driven. I look forward to the next.
Sheila Vernon
The Gathering Wind by Gregory A. Freeman
The story of the loss of the tall ship the Bounty (a replica of the HMS Bounty built for the 1960s movie Mutiny on the Bounty) off Cape Hatteras, North Carolina during Hurricane Sandy. A well told survival story that also gives you appreciation for the courage and bravery of the Coast Guard teams that will come to assist you even when you do something questionable like try to outrun a hurricane in a wooden tall ship.
bobbie mohney
Taylor's Gift: A Courageous Story of Giving Life and Renewing Hope by Todd and Tara Storch
Great book, great group discussion. I cried just about the entire story, which, while sad, was very inspirational. To go from worrying about when their daughter could play volleyball to making a decision about letting their daughter go and how much to let go. The family is an inspiration, and getting to know who received Taylor's organs made sad moments become happy. Would recommend this book to anyone that wants a good read.
Marie Ledin
Shattered Palms by Toby Neal
Another awesome read by Toby Neal. Murder, mystery, and romance on the beautiful island of Maui. Lush, descriptive scenery and great storyline. Can't wait for the next book.
Sharon Shirlen
Private: #1 Suspect by James Patterson
The book starts with a gruesome murder of a friend, intended to make the main character look totally guilty. James Patterson weaves a great tale as always! Loved the suspense!
Sandra Canales
The Influence by Bentley Little
If you like an interesting horror novel then this one might be for you. I like mysteries and yes, at times, a good horror story is hard to pass up. This latest one from Little deals with a small community where everyone knows everyone else and the dangers one night, New Years Eve to be exact. Something creepy happens to the town's occupants in a twisted secret. The townsfolk who were rich and prosperous will be the opposite end of the spectrum. Those who were poor and down on their luck will suddenly hit the jackpot in the lottery! Nice, right. Maybe not. And what is happening to the animals and the kids in this town? I don't want to spoil it but the ending does not live up to the point of getting there. Have fun!
Linda Johnson
The Death of Santini by Pat Conroy
I cheated. I listened to this book, but I have not read The Great Santini. I have read several other of Pat Conroy's books and therefore am aware of the dysfunctional Conroy family. This book was not exactly what I expected since it ended with Don Conroy's death rather than beginning with it. That does not diminish Conroy's storytelling ability. Yes, I will follow up and read The Great Santini. I know that no family is perfect, but it seems that the Conroys have a harder time than most. No matter which two members of the Conroy family are attempting to communicate, there is discord and umbrage. I hope the communication did not end with the death of their father.
amy mattingly
The Secret Between Us by Barbara Delinsky
This book made me think carefully about how the choices we make affect those with whom we come into contact. It reveals the deep damage that can occur when lies are told.
Fran OH
The Litigators by John Grisham
Not my favorite book by John Grisham, but I liked the main character.
elaine beierbach
I've Got You Under My Skin by Mary Higgins Clark
Could not put it down.
Laura beierbach
I've Got You Under My Skin by Mary Higgins Clark
I miss the characters. I hope she uses them again.
Joan Herron
Shotgun Lovesongs by Nickolas Butler
Love this book! I put off reading it because it was "different" than my usual reading of murder mysteries. The one word that comes to mind while reading is "RICH". Each page and character's story is full of feeling and emotion. Growing up in a small Midwest town, I can relate to the feelings of those who stayed and those who left. It's a definite winner, drawing the reader in from the very beginning. I found myself slowing down my reading so the book wouldn't end as soon. Two thumbs up!
Dorothy Flood
Rose Harbor in Bloom by Debbie Macomber
A pleasant read as are all of her books.
Dorothy Flood
Power Play by Danielle Steel
Two successful CEOs and the difference between men and women who are on the top. An excellent read. Women in particular will enjoy this
Francisca E B
Of Men and Their Mothers by Mameve Medwed
Maisie Grey is divorced and raising her teen son, Tommy, in a modest but nice apartment. Her ex-mother-in-law, Ina, however, cannot step away from criticizing, belittling and otherwise insinuating herself into Maisie's life. This is a comedy of manners with modern complications – custody battles, unfit mothers, meddlesome mothers-in-law, and the Goth craze. The characters ring true, if a bit over the top at times. It's a quick, entertaining read.
Jan Zahrly
Naked Cruelty by Colleen McCullough
If you like good mysteries, are you reading the Carmine Delmonico series by Colleen McCullough? If not, when will you begin? This series is the best McCullough has written. The mysteries are always complex and have a continuing set of characters. If you are interested, start with the first, On Off. McCullough has well developed characters and keeps the reader questioning until the very end. What next? In this book, a serial rapist captures strong independent women in their own homes and rapes them repeatedly and viciously. This leads to a community group of Gentlemen Walkers who are out walking in the evening and really do nothing to find the rapist or protect women. An excellent mystery.
Linda Reck
The Other Typist by Suzanne Rindel
The Other Typist is a sly black comedy. It is told from Rose's point of view in a journal. Rose Baker is a typist at a police precinct. The book is pretty boring until Odalie, the other typist, is hired. She and Rose become fast friends, and Rose finds herself in the world of speakeasies. Rose is captivated with Odalie and starts to obsess about her. The tenor of the book changes. Odalie has many backgrounds. Who is the real Odalie? Has she been using and manipulating Rose from the beginning? I felt that the book was somewhat contrived. It was like doing a jigsaw puzzle and all of the pieces didn't fit.
Margo McKeon
The Storied Life of A. J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin
I really enjoyed this. A cute romantic story about a independent book store owner. Fun and crazy things happen in the bookstore.
LINDA BASS
Wish Upon A Tiger by A. T. Mitchell
Left to fend for herself after her mom died of cancer, hefty and curved, Jenna Argo, trusted a professor in Georgia who gained her confidence through deceit and charm to convince her to shift and let her tigress out. Oh, he was very cunning and chose a day when most of his building was empty to have two of his thugs abduct her. The next thing she knew she was naked, caged, and on a plane to Alaska!! Erik Nordclaw, alpha of tigertree village, smelled her before he laid eyes on her, but something was terribly wrong. Even though she was naked, he could smell fear running off her, and he saw she was chained in a clearing with men holding rifles on her! She was his kin and by god he would protect her until his last breath!
Richard N B
The Memory of Running by Ron McLarty
3.5*** Recorded book, read by the author. Smithson Ide (Smithy) is 43, a self-described loser working at a toy factory, a chain-smoker, a drunk and obese, when a family tragedy pushes him to DO something. Coming across his old bicycle, Smithy starts pedaling … and then keeps pedaling on a journey across America and towards a new life. He’s a complicated character and difficult to get to know, but I grew to like him. He is truly a man who had lost himself, and his slow reawakening is the whole purpose of this novel. McLarty does a good job with a difficult writing style – parallel stories alternating from chapter to chapter.
Wendy Catalano
The Winter People by Jennifer McMahon
Every now and then I come across a book that scares me, and "The Winter People" by Jennifer McMahon did just that. Spooky enough to give me goosebumps and to question the logic of walking into a dark room.
The story takes place in the past and the present and revolves around the agonizing sorrow caused by the death of a loved one. To what extreme are we driven when suffering all-consuming grief? How far would one go to bring their loved one back from the dead? "Sleepers" are those who are awakened from the dead. A spine-tingling horror that is well written and dripping with suspense.
Cindy Rushing
The Whip by Karen Kondazian
Just read this book and was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed it. Historical fiction, this is a story that quickly engages the reader. The reader's heart will ache at the circumstances in which Charley Parkhurst learned to survive.
Dian Boysen
Roses by Leila Meacham
I love books about the south and family dynamics. It was like reading a more modern Gone With the Wind.
Tessa B C
After by Kristin Harmel
3.5*** Lacey’s father is killed in an auto accident, leaving her mother and two brothers obviously consumed by grief, and even though she’d like for things to return to “before”, she recognizes that she must deal with “after.” This is a sensitively written story of one family’s journey back to “normal” after suffering a devastating loss. The characters are fully realized and the situations are believable. Definitely recommended for teen readers.
elaine beierbach
I've Got You Under My SKin by Mary Higgins Clark
Mary tells a great tale of suspense.
helen brady
The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion
Wonderful! A great book club read. Our group loved it!
dennis beierbach
I've Got You Under My SKin by Mary Higgins Clark
Hot book. Everyone is reading it.
Nusrah javed
The Odyssey by Homer
One of the two works by Homer that sets the base for all other forms of writing ever going to be produced on this earth. Need I say more? This book is rich in culture, history, mythology, characters and the most important feature we look for in a book, a good story.
Jeanette Crossett
The Clan of the Cave Bear by Jean M. Auel
It is the first of the Earth's Children series. The the book is about Ayla, and she is raised by Cro-Magnans. Set in the ice age. She is different from the rest of the group. Her mother teaches her how to be a doctor.
Francisca E B
The Buddha in the Attic by Julie Otsuka
In this spare but luminously written novel, Otsuka tells the story of young Japanese women who came to America in the early 1900s, following them for several decades to the internment camps of WWII. Otsuka’s writing is strongly evocative of time and place. Highly recommended.
Fran OH
Divergent by Veronica Roth
With all the hype and raving reviews for this book, I went into it expecting to read something great. To say I was disappointed is an understatement. Just not my cuppa tea!
shelly itkin
Twist by Roni Teson
Who would imagine that having sex in the back seat of a car at sixteen years of age could cause your boyfriend to almost be killed and a search by the FBI to locate your dad? Not to mention that the tape of is now splattered across the Internet. This book does not waste any time hooking you in, and you won’t be able to put it down. Beatrice Malcolm is now living with her aunt and uncle since her mom passed away, and her dad is being hunted down for being on the “America’s most wanted list’” We are not sure if what we read is true, a secret or a lie, and the only way to separate that is to keep reading. Believe me, you will want to not put this down.
James Holton
African Narratives of Orishas, Spirits and Other Deities by Alex Cuoco
This is an excellent collection of tales related to the gods of West Africa by author Alex Cuoco. A 990 page wealth of information for enthusiasts of African Studies, Religion, Mysticism and Mythology. The book contains an extensive informative glossary, which is a book on its own. The narratives and all supporting topics in this work examine Orisha/Vodun/Nkisi beliefs in Nigeria, Benin, Togo and Angola-Congo cultures. A Fantastic read! It is available at Amazon and other online booksellers.
Colin Beierbach
I've Got You Under My SKin by Mary Higgins Clark
My wife shared this book, and I'm glad she did.
Denise Beierbach
I've Got You Under My SKin by Mary Higgins Clark
I'm sharing this book. Best story I have enjoyed in a while.
Summer Grinstead
Blackberry Winter by Sarah Jio
Great book. I love this author and so far have loved anything that she has written.
Laura Beierbach
I've Got You Under My Skin by Mary Higgins Clark
A thrilling novel.
elaine beierbach
I've Got You Under My Skin by Mary Higgins Clark
I love the suspense of her books.
Judy O.
Gemini by Carol Cassella
This is an engrossing story about a young woman who is found near death along a highway in Washington state. The ER doctor tries very hard to identify her as well as save her life. The ultimate identification comes in an unexpected way. A real page-turner!
Bonnie Gluhanich
Shotgun Lovesongs by Nickolas Butler
Excellent first novel.
shelly itkin
Pepper Parrot's Problem With Patience by Carole P. Roman
This book is so well written and colorfully illustrated, children will truly enjoy it. The best part is that it teaches young children if they have a problem, just ask for help. Since Pepper Parrot is not sure of her right or left, Hallie, the first mate teaches Pepper a trick. Once Pepper knows what to do, she is happy and now a member of the crew and will have a much more positive attitude.I definitely recommend getting this book for young children as it illustrates patience in a very easy way to understand.
Kellie Smith
The Knitting Circle by Ann Hood
I don’t knit. After reading this book, it didn’t make me want to either. However, I absolutely adored this book. I couldn’t put it down. It is a sad story, but I liked the characters and the writing was extraordinary. I had a hunch that the author had true knowledge via the genuine depiction of a mother’s grief after the loss of a child. Sure enough, I’ve read where Ann Hood did indeed lose a child at the tender age of 5. Not so fictional after all. I have stated before in previous reviews that I have felt like authors sometimes use their writing as an outlet, like therapy. This book is another example. This isn’t some made up, feel good, happy ending story. There is a lot of truth in it that makes it that much more genuine.
susan gannon
Yesterday's Promise by Linda Lee Chaikin
2nd book in the trilogy. An extremely feel good read.
Colin Beierbach
I've Got You Under My Skin by Mary Higgins Clark
Kind of creepy- like the title.
Denise Beierbach
I've Got You Under My Skin by Mary Higgins Clark
Loved the plot. Kept me guessing.
Donna Shaw
Light a Penny Candle by Maeve Binchy
The young daughters of two college friends are brought together as London is targeted during WWII. They become best friends for life even though one is an English protestant and the other an Irish Catholic. We follow two decades of their lives as they intertwines, loving the same man, meeting the challenges of pulling away from the past, and meeting the future of change.
Laura Beierbach
I've Got You Under My Skin by Mary Higgins Clark
Another great book in my collection.
Donna Shaw
An Inconvenient Wife by Megan Chance
I loved this book and chose it for my book club group. This is the story of a woman's struggle to be whole though limited by the times and being female in the 1880s. As typical of some, her nerves get the best of her, and her husband places her in a private mental institution for treatment. The treatment brings out a terrible childhood and a loveless marriage. I don't want to give the story away, but the title of the book is perfect.
Janet Nydegger
The Weight of Blood by Laura McHugh
This was a good mystery, which I especially enjoyed because the setting was the Ozarks. The action took place in Branson, Mountain Home and other locations I am familiar with. If you liked "Winter's Bone" by Daniel Woodrell you will like this book.
Donna Shaw
Snowflower and the Secret Fan: A Novel by Lisa See
Historical fiction story taking place in rural China in the 19th century. Young children promised in arranged marriages, inferior status as a female and foot binding are all brought out in this book. To survive, women discovered secret ways of communicating and used these methods for support. An unforgetable book and great for book clubs.
Sandy McCullough
Foreign Fruit by Jojo Moyes
This book was fun to read, and I was happy that it was such a fat book. It kind of felt like two books in one until one of the main characters from the first half showed up again in the second half. For Lottie Swift, Arcadia has always been magical. The breathtaking art deco house perched above the shoreline of the well-ordered village of Merham seems to stand still throughout the years. It has never changed, not really, but Lottie's fate and fortune have been inextricably linked with those of the beautiful house, and it will forever be fixed in her mind as a symbol of adventure, youth, and loves lost and gained, even as her life—and the house—falls into disrepair.
Anne Marie Koschnick
The Hangman's Beautiful Daughter by Sharyn McCrumb
A haunting story that brings the reader to Appalachia and the residents of the mountains. The characters are vivid, and you get a sense that you know them from more than the story. A sense of history, folk lore, the character and an excellent story are just some of the reasons to take the time to get to know this book.
Linda Johnson
Who Could That Be at This Hour? by Lemony Snicket
I didn't realize that I had missed two Lemony Snicket books until I was trolling for an audio on the Ohio e-book project and discovered this one and another. It is still full of Snicket's humor written for the YA crowd. I much preferred the narration of Tim Curry on the Series of Unfortunate Event books to Liam Aiken. That said, I don't think this series is meant to be as diabolical as the previous one, so changing narrators was probably wise.
Cindy Becker
1984 by George Orwell
Rereading an old classic. It is always so fascinating to read a book about the future when the future has now become the long-forgotten past. Reading 1984 in high school, I hated the book and found it hard to endure. Now as an adult, I'm actually enjoying the book and the message it gives.
Kay Campbell
The Invention of Wings by Sue Monk Kidd
Loving the characters and history storyline of this new novel by Sue Monk Kidd, who wrote The Secret Lives of Bees. Some passages are difficult to read, but they contribute to the accuracy of the ignorance of the times.
Dorothy Boyum
The Husband's Secret by Liane Moriarty
This book kept me interested from beginning to end. The author made each character seem very important. I was 100% surprised at the ending. This would be an excellent book for book clubs to read and discuss.
Fran OH
Girl in Translation by Jean Kwok
A sweet, coming of age tale featuring a young Chinese immigrant and her mother. The author did a great job of depicting the culture shock and stark differences between the Chinese and American school system. A vivid depiction of a life of poverty and young girl who sets her sights on rising above it!
Janis Apgar
Divergent by Veronica Roth
Loved this book! Well written, good character development/description.
Coral Harrison
Shunning Sarah by Julie Kramer
It is a book about a mystery in the Amish country. Riley Spartz is a TV reporter who tries to solve murders. Sarah is found dead but had been "shunned" by the Amish before her death.
Riley tries to solve this before the cops. She is afraid she might be killed while trying to do this. It is very interesting how this all works out.
Susan Wilson
Uganda Be Kidding Me by Chelsea Handler
This travel memoir by comedienne and ETV star Chelsea Handler is good for a plane ride if you are not sitting by a stranger who will be upset by your outbursts of laughter. Not for anyone with refined sensibilities and probably should come with at least a PG-13 warning, but it is still a lot of adult fun.
Gail Spitzer
The Midwife of Hope River by Patricia Harman
This is a very interesting book, which depicts the depression era in the Appalachian region of America and the main character, Patricia, who is a midwife serving the poor in that area.The difficulties and dangers which she encounters make for interesting reading. The author is a nurse-midwife and this is her first novel. It portrays both the hardships and the hopes of the women who use her services.
Vennie Martinisi c/o Jasmine
The Begger King by Oliver Potzsch and Lee Chadeayne
The Beggar King by Oliver Potzsch is part of the Hangman's Daughter series. I have to say that in my opinion it was a fantastic read! I enjoyed every last twist and turn of the characters and the story. It's a story about deception, trust, murder, family and love. It takes the reader back to 17th century Bavaria. where things are really not so romantic as one would tend to think from other fiction. The Hangman is accused and jailed of a double murder of his sister and her husband. The torture he is put through is appalling, but he's strong and bears it. His daughter, Magdalena, and her beloved come to rescue, along with the beggar king. They are led on a merry chase around the town. The book is both a romance and an adventure.
SALLY G
Hostage by Kay Hooper
A rather twisted mystery with quite a bit of tech material causing this reader to do some skimming!
Debbie M
Lethal Treasure by Jane K. Cleland
Cleland weaves much antique lingo into her story and explains the process of authenticating antiques very well. I enjoyed the story, but felt the ending flat. I waited for the fat lady to sing and that never happened. Cleland tied up the case, but I felt something was missing and felt I needed to read longer. I can imagine the snow and terrible storm conditions, but most states deal with "Old Man Winter". The characters seemed a little undeveloped in this novel, like the writer tired of the story.
SALLY GASS
NYPD Puzzle by Parnell Hall
Frequent repetitions of conversation as if readers do not catch on. The mystery could have moved along faster, but the killer and his reasoning kept it a mystery till the end.
SALLY GASS
Dead of Night by Amanda Stevens & Charlaine Harris
I do not normally read fantasy novels but I tried this. I liked the first one, Dancers in the Dark; it was understandable, but the second story, The Devil's Footprints, was too confusing.
Melissa Borsey
Sycamore Row by John Grisham
I admit to being a John Grisham fan who had stopped buying his books. The writing just stopped being what I had become used to from him. When Sycamore Row came out using the characters from his book, A Time To Kill, which I enjoyed immensely, I knew I had to give this book a try. While I did enjoy getting caught up with the old characters, this was not a book that begged me to keep coming back. It is of course very well written, and the courtroom drama is good. I just found the rest of the book so-so.
JoAnn Carroll
Moloka'i by Alan Brennert
My reading group seems to prefer the historical fiction genre. We love an interesting plot, good character development and high interest, but we also like to learn something from the novel. This novel was well written and enabled us to learn so much about the Hawaiian islands and the dreaded disease leprosy in the first half of the 1900s. I highly recommend this book to any group.
Susan Spencer
84 Charing Cross Road by Helene Hanff
I loved the story. This book told of a love for books between a writer who lives in New York and a book seller in England. The story is told in letters sent back and forth starting in 1949 till 1969. Such a wonderful book.
Susan Spencer
The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie by Alan Bradley
I thought this book was delightful, and I can't wait to pick up the next book. Such a fresh and wonderful story.
Susan Spencer
Every Trick in the Book by Lucy Arlington
I found this author a few months ago, and I love her cozy mysteries and look forward to reading more.
Susan Spencer
Last Writes by Laura Levine
I love her lighthearted books and find myself laughing out loud. Pick one up. I know you will love it.
Melanie S.
Where'd You Go, Bernadette? by Maria Semple
I am going to be a World Book Night Giver in April, and this was the book I will be giving away, so I figured it was time to read it! This book was an absolute blast to read! It was funny, witty, sarcastic yet heartwarming, and just a great creative story! I enjoyed the Seattle references (Molly Moon ice cream, Chihuly glass) as I had just visited there last summer. It has been on my want-to-read list for quite some time, and I am so glad that I finally got around to reading it. I will be looking forward to hearing what the 20 recipients of my book-giving will say after they read it. Highly recommended!
Gloria Fabijanic
The All-Girl Filling Station's Last Reunion by Fannie Flagg
A 60-year-old woman discovers she is not who she thinks she is.
Marsha
The Exile by Allan Folsom
If you are looking for a heart-pounding thriller that you won't want to put down, look no further. This is epic and moves from Los Angeles, to London, to Paris, and to Russia. There is global intrigue, a ruthless killer, government agencies from several countries and much more.
Nancy Hausladen
The Shoemaker's Wife by Adriana Trigiani
I normally like historical fiction, but for some reason I could not get into this book. I think I kept waiting for the shoemaker's wife to show up and that did not happen til late in the book. The idea and the characters were good, so maybe I was just not in the mood for this type of book.
Ivy Pittman
Ripper by Isabel Allende
Took a while to get into this serial killer thriller, but Allende does an above-average job of sketching out a horrific series of murders. The authorities are stumped, but the Rippers, a mish-mash group of skypers who come together to piece together the variables, are the real puzzle solvers.
Brenda Rupp
The Tenth Witness by Leonard Rosen
This book is not my normal read. I was a little slow getting into it, but as soon as I got interested in the characters, who were very well written, and the rhythm of the book, I finished it in two days. I usually read chic lit, historical romance, fiction, that type of thing. This book was such a surprise to me that I wanted to continue reading it and finish to find out what happened at the end. The book got five awards for a first book by an author. I can see why! I believe anyone who was interested in WWII before and after, and the way the Nazis used people as slaves to get anything done they wanted to (and if those people died they would just replace them with more), this is the book for you!
Brenda Rupp
Sous Chef: 24 Hours on the Line by Michael Gibney
I don't know about anyone else, but I just got addicted to watching the tv show Chopped - addicted! Now anyone who has ever thought about being a chef or wondered what happened in the kitchens of the truly great restaurants and what it took to get hundreds of dinners out of the kitchen as requested and sent to the correct tables with all of the things that people ask of their waitresses/chefs, this book is for you. The author wrote in second person about an entire twenty-four hour period, move by move, of a kitchen with several sous chefs, line chefs, etc., each title what it meant, what that person was expected to do, how one misstep could screw up the entire line, and choreography, as it were, of the kitchen.The book was very interesting.
Kristi Herbrand
The Quickie by James Patterson and Michael Ledwidge
Just finished this one a little while ago. Loved it.
Jan Zahrly
Cutted Chicken in Shanghai by Sharon Winters
What a delightful memoir, cultural education and fun reading! Winters had the great luck to go to Shanghai for two years when her husband was there on a work assignment. In some ways her experiences were just like those of us who have followed the call of the wild through work, Peace Corp Volunteer service, international aid organizations, etc. The chicken would be cut when it got to the table. Therefore, "cutted" chicken. Winters was already alert and aware of the culture before she got there, but her husband spoke no Chinese and ate only 16 foods. Thank goodness the driver of their car spoke English and helped Sharon with Chinese. This is a GREAT READ !!
Jan Zahrly
The Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman
I know people who "loved" this book. I did not and felt that it was just a shade above a "typical romance, bodice-ripper." As soon as Tom failed to send info about finding the wreck, the dead body and the baby, we could see the spiral and it was not going up. Of course, he would be bothered by his omission, his failure to do his duty (we were set up for this part), and he became a lesser person as he gave in to Isabel's determination to keep the baby. I kept waiting for something interesting to happen. We knew the child would be upset with her blood mother; Isabel had clung to the child making her very dependent on her parents. So much of the book was offensive. No positive characters. Buy a lusty romance novel instead.
Sharon Lumb
Still Life with Bread Crumbs by Anna Quindlen
A charming book about the joy that happens to sixty-year-old Rebecca. She is divorced and has difficulty with her relationships with her parents and son. She is a formerly acclaimed photographer who now cannot pay her bills unless she rents her NYC apartment and rents cheaper quarters. Luckily, she rents a cabin in the woods and discovers that life happens even outside the Big Apple.
Linda Johnson
Divergent by Veronica Roth
It took about 100 pages for me to get really involved, and then I could not find enough time to read to finish this the way I would have liked. Similar to The Hunger Games in that it is a dystopian society and with a strong female protagonist who fights battles in unconventional ways, as I read the final pages, I knew all my questions would not be answered, and that would set up for book 2. I just don't know when I'll be able to get to it.
Carol
The Vanishing by Wendy Webb
This book reminded me of books I read and loved years ago. Interesting characters, a spooky house, and mystery. The perfect book to read while curled up by the fireplace
Lynne Johns
The Storyteller by Jodi Picoult
A great page turner to the very end!! Highly recommended.
Pat Pascale
Kissing in Italian by Lauren Henderson
Their summer study program takes four teens to the countryside of Italy. Violet Routledge stares at a portrait of a young girl that looks exactly like her. She recently saw one at home in London at a museum there. Does she have a twin in 18th Century Italy? Lovely locale, fun, romance and the unraveling of a plot concerning shocking revelations about her family. Meeting boys, dancing late into the night, even swimming in the river in their underclothes with the boys that dared them to join them was humerous. Violet, Paige, Kendra and Kelly learn about history, the arts and amore in Italia. Light, enjoyable read. Ms. Henderson does an excellent job with the descriptions of Siena and bella Venice.
shannon leonetti
A Beautiful Place to Die by Malla Nunn
Set in 1952 South Africa, a haunting mystery. The first in a brief series about Detective Emmanuel, one of the best I have read in ages. How quickly we have all forgotten the South Africa of the 1950s!
Mary Ann Cole
Losing Mum and Pup by Christopher Buckley
Having lost both of my own parents within 6 weeks' time, reading Buckley's book about the loss of his own parents within a year's time has been a great read for me. Losing one parent is hard enough, but to lose both throws one into a whole different category of existence. Buckley is funny, poignant, and honest,and captures so many of the questions, feelings, fears that I remember experiencing with my own parents' deaths. I would recommend reading this only after leaving some space for healing from that kind of loss. It's darkly humorous, laugh-out-loud so, as death can be, and I appreciated that sense of humor as he broaches the myriad emotions of loss and "what now?" upon death.
Pat Caron
The Last Letter from Your Lover by JoJo Moyes
She is such a wonderful storyteller. I loved Me Before You, and I think I love this one more!! Found myself tearing up a few times. I certainly will read more from her.
Dorothy Flood
Blossom Street Brides by Debbie Macomber
This is really good. Some new characters have been introduced and, as with all of her books, it is a good, easy, enjoyable read.
Rosemary Bednarczyk
Letters from Skye by Jessica Brockmole
A fan letter from a young American college student to a poet/housewife on Skye, before WWI, leads to a correspondence that changes both their lives. A second correspondence between an RAF pilot & a young woman during WWII leads to a search for a solution of the mystery of the young woman's parentage.
Sandy McCullough
The Last Time I Saw You by Elizabeth Berg
As onetime classmates meet up over the course of a weekend for their fortieth high school reunion, they discover things that will irrevocably affect the rest of their lives. For newly divorced Dorothy, the reunion brings with it the possibility of finally attracting the attention of the class heartthrob. For the ever self-reliant, ever left-out Mary Alice, it’s a chance to reexamine a painful past. For Lester, a veterinarian and widower, it is the hope of talking shop with a fellow vet—or at least that’s what he tells himself. For Candy, the class beauty, it’s the hope of finding friendship before it’s too late. As these and other classmates converge for the reunion dinner, four decades melt away. This is one of my favorite authors!
Mamie Eng
Occupied City by David Peace
Most of the group found it too convoluted and didn't like it. Not recommended - maybe it was our members (mostly older women). A disappointment.
Veronica Earley
The Wives of Los Alamos by TaraShea Nesbit
Interesting story coming from the woman's point of view about all the secrecy.
Veronica Earley
The Museum of Extraordinary Things by Alice Hoffman
Loved the story. Love Alice Hoffman's writing style.
Veronica Earley
The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin
More of a young adult novel but loved the story.
Sandra Canales
The Winter People by Jennifer McMahon
This story is a little different. It deals with two different eras of time from past to present and vice versa. From the past, Sara is a devoted mother who loves her daughter more than anything or anyone, but then she descends into madness when her little one goes missing and is later found at the bottom of a well. There are many intricate plots within the story that are far too many to explain here, but don't give up reading. It is a little slow at first but once it gets going, you can't stop reading. It isn't a long read either. The present deals with a family who now lives in Sara's home and is dealing with their mother who suddenly goes "missing". There are supernatural elements that takes the story to another level. Check it out!!
Bev McKay
The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin
I loved this book! I started it before I went to bed and ended up staying up 1/2 the night to finish it. Most of the books I've been reading lately have been putting me to sleep. I didn't want this one to end. I give it 5+. It's a must read. I'm going to give my copy to a friend who I know will enjoy it. I will also be recommending this book to my book club. This book is about a bookstore owner who is depressed after the death of his wife and isn't sure he wants to go living without her. He ends up discovering a child in his bookstore and ends up raising her. Along the way, he starts to evolve, and by the end of the book is a completely different person. It's a beautiful story.
Elaine Baxter
The Supreme Macaroni Company by Adriana Trigiani
If you have never read any of this author's books, shame on you. Her books are warm, funny and oh so true, and all about family. You cannot help but smile from one page to another. You will recognize your family in her characters. It does not matter if you are Italian, Irish, Jewish or any other ethnic group, family is the same whoever you are. This book is the third installment. The other two are Very Valentine and Brava Valentine. Wonderful, wonderful reads.
Elaine Baxter
Alice I Have Been by Melanie Benjamin
A great read. To think that there was a little girl named Alice who inspired Lewis Carrol to write
"The Adventures of Alice Through The Looking Glass", later to be known as "Alice in Wonderland".
This is a very well written story, and you will either love the characters of not, but you will enjoy this book. Do yourself a favor and read it.
Linda Johnson
When Did You See Her Last? by Lemony Snicket and Seth
Another mystery written by Lemony Snicket with a young Lemony Snicket as the prime detective.
Barbara Studer
Just After Midnight by Lori Handeland
I enjoy historical romances novels and also have a fondness for the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. Our heroine, Megan, came to the Yukon after her father had sent for her. Upon hearing bad news, Megan faints into the arms of our hero, Lt. Alex Carson. Megan becomes the sole owner of her father's dance hall. Having managed restaurants and hotels for her father, she knew how to manage a business but not a dance hall. She had also been too busy being a business woman to have time for romance. Many challenges await Megan, plus finding out what had happened to her father was of utmost importance. Alex also wants to know why his sister committed suicide in this town.
Barbara Studer
Radiance: Love After Death by Debra East
Finished this in 2 days as I could not wait to see if this was a Happily Ever After story. Marena is blindsided by a cheating husband and divorce, and buries herself in work until she is exhausted. Coming home from work tired, crying, and not knowing how to go on anymore, she is in a car accident. She flatlines several times and somehow manages to live. She still has to rehab and get on with her life post-divorce. Her friend, Serena, suggests she house sit for Serena's parents for a change of scenery, and in walks David into her life....or rather crawls in thru a window....but I won't tell you anymore. A beautiful story of faith and trust, and forever-love.
B. Klaassen
The Cold Nowhere by Brian Freeman
I read this A.R.C. because the story sounded interesting. This was a new author for me. The story was fast-paced and full of twists and turns. I found myself believing in the main characters. At first I was surprised who was behind the murders, but then I stopped to reflect, and realized I had missed a few clues. The author wrote a well-constructed suspense. I look forward to reading this author again soon.
Jamie Love
The Whole Golden World by Kristina Riggle
A quick read. I enjoyed it more as it went on, and by the end, I had a difficult time putting it down. Would be a great read for a book club as there is a lot to discuss.
Marsha
The Keeper of Lost Causes by Jussi Adler-Olsen
This is the beginning of a series of police procedurals from Denmark. Quite an engaging duo of men are assigned to a new Department Q, If you are a fan of Steig Larsson books, then this is for you.
Sandra Furlotte
The Other Half by Sarah Rayner
I received this book from Goodreads, and it is a departure from what I usually read. I found a good story about a man torn between his wife and his mistress. The writing was crisp, and the story moved along at a good pace. I did find that the character of the mistress was a bit too like Bridget Jones.
Becky Haase
Trickster's Point by William Kent Krueger
If you are looking for a literate mystery with well-developed characters and a convincing, challenging plot, this is the book for you. Krueger’s latest chapter in the life of his Cork O’Conner character will have you guessing until the last pages. Several characters from Cork’s past have reason to kill off Cork’s childhood friend, rising politician Jubal Little. When Little’s life is cut short in the middle of his gubernatorial campaign, Cork is the prime suspect until others reveal their animosity. Cork’s family and friends, as well as a few enemies, all come under suspicion in this tightly plotted mystery leavened with near poetic descriptions of the area around Trickster’s Point.
Becky Haase
12 Years A Slave by Solomon Northup
I never thought I would say this but … Go see the movie. The story is important, but the book is ponderous. The writing is old fashioned enough to make it difficult for the modern reader. I was glad I read this on my e-reader so I could easily look up all the many “archaic” words. The punctuation also forces the reader to slow down and re-read portions to understand what is being said in this autobiography.The book relates the experiences of a free black man who is kidnapped by slavers in Washington, DC and taken to Louisiana where he is sold into slavery. It takes 12 long years for him to be found, released from bondage and returned to wife and children.
Susan Wray
Hostage Three by Nick Lake
When Amy Fields's father announces they are going to sail around the world on a yacht for the next year, she has no idea how much she'll learn about herself, her family, and her resilience when the yacht is seized by pirates and they are held for ransom. This is a well written, fast-paced young adult thriller written by a Michael L. Printz award-winning author. Hard to put down. Highly recommended.
Michael McAdam
Doctor Sleep by Stephen King
The sequel to The Shining! Revisiting Danny Torrance as an adult is like catching up with an old friend... and the plot of this book is nicely crafted and quite the page turner! I don't really have any criticisms or gripes (I usually have at least one), so huge thumbs up!
Debbi Burton
Mister Owita's Guide to Gardening by Caroll Wall
Lovely story. Mister Owita made me want to tend my garden in a whole new way, both outside and inside. Wall does a masterful job of letting us in on the joys of life (a beautiful garden with all its surprises, a solid marriage and a blossoming friendship) and the challenges (breast cancer, navigating American culture for a family from Kenya, and family secrets). This book was hard to put down; it is a wonderful breath of fresh air (no pun intended).
Melanie S.
It Takes A Worried Man by Brendan Halpin
While I felt deeply for Mr. Halpin and all that he had to go through as a husband to a young woman diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer, his memoir left a lot to be desired from a literary standpoint. Much of his story was rambling musings, and unfortunately it was rather boring and banal. There were some witty and funny parts, but they were sandwiched between him droning on about his in-laws, his music tastes, and teaching experiences and of course fear of losing his wife and her chemo experience. I would imagine a man going through the same experience might relate better to what he was writing about than I did, but for me the book was tedious assigned reading for my medically-themed book group at my library.
Diane Porter
The Winter Garden by Kristen Hannah
Excellent story about the seige of Leningrad. This is well researched and told in a contemporary setting. One complaint would be that it takes a while for the reader to "find" the story within the story about two sisters. Well worth sticking with to the end. There is lots to discuss here for book clubs, and much to learn about the trials of those who lived under Stalin's regime.
Sharon Shirlen
Daddy's Gone A Hunting by Mary Higgins Clark
From the beginning, this book grabs you. Love the suspense and the way she develops her characters.
Donna Shaw
The Silent Wife by A. S. A. Harrison
A marriage of 20 years is waning. The perfect wife in denial and a cheating husband who is juggling an affair with the young daughter of his best friend. Written in the style of Gone Girl, but without the suspense. I read the book in 1-1/2 days and thoroughly enjoyed it.
Brenda Hayes
Shadow Spell by Nora Roberts
Ms. Roberts has a way of drawing you into the story. I can see the characters and hear their voices.
Tessa B C
Hemingway's Girl by Erika Robuck
3.5*** I enjoyed this historical fiction novel that focuses on Hemingway and Key West in 1935, seen through the eyes of a half-Cuban / half-American 19-year-old housekeeper. Mariella is a strong young woman, trying to help her widowed mother care for her two younger sisters, but the attraction between her and Papa Hemingway is evident to everyone. I learned about the 1935 Labor Day hurricane, a piece of American history of which I was previously unaware. I would read another novel by Robuck.
Michele Counihan
The Invention of Wings by Sue Monk Kidd
I really liked this book. Every recommendation I heard (I work at the circ desk in a local library) has been dead-on. Sue Monk Kidd's characters are well-rounded and transform through the years while slavery is being challenged. It is historical fiction at its best.
Lizz Kohler
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
Excellent read....keeps you turning those pages late into the night!!
Donna Shaw
The Housemaid's Daughter by Barbara Mutch
Ada, a black housemaid in apartheid South Africa, tells her story from birth until she reaches old age. Cathleen Harringon is a kindhearted immigrant from Ireland. The two women develop a close and loving relationship that goes against the laws of the time. Cathleen teaches the young Ada how to read and write, and most importantly, how to play the piano, discovering that Ada is a musical prodigy. Music becomes the common language that erases the color barriers of apartheid. This story is painful in its injustice, while at the same time it is touchingly beautiful as the two women surmount the obstacles society places before them. I was poorly informed about apartheid before reading this book.
Francisca E B
The Piano Teacher by Janice Y. K. Lee
3.5*** Audio book narrated by Orlagh Cassidy. Good historical fiction focusing on the Japanese invasion of Hong Kong during WW2, and the aftereffects on the colony’s residents some ten years after the war. Claire Pendleton (the piano teacher) reminds me of Somerset Maugham’s Kitty Fane (The Painted Veil), though she isn’t quite so fully realized. This is Lee’s debut novel; I would read another book by her.
jane Kimball
A Street Cat Named Bob by James Bowen
If you like cats this is the book for you!
Bob is very special and and awesome cat. Wish I had one just like him.
Marsha
Missing You by Harlan Coben
This is a nail-biter and a page-turner. NYPD detective, Kat Donovan, is faced with several cases and also trying to unravel the real truth of her father, also a detective, who was murdered several years ago. When facing the truth, remember it might be more than she wants to know.
Linda Reck
The Girl With a Clock for a Heart by Peter Swanson
This book has been optioned for a movie and is touted as a possible Edgar winner for first novel. I don't see it. It's the story of a man, George, wo was swept up in the passion of first love as a freshman in college. Liana goes home for Christmas break and never returns to school. She shows up twenty years later to ask George for a favor - to return a large sum of money to a man. Why does he agree? It's preposterous, but he knows that Liana is in trouble and is trying to help. George is duped as he falls into Liana's snare. How ridiculous! I didn't find the book the least bit suspenseful; I didn't like it and wouldn't recommend it.
Debbie M
A Time to Kill by John Grisham
John Grisham writes a thought-provoking and interesting novel that captures the reader in the first page. Many of the events seemed a little strained, and this reader feels that the whole story has not been told. The story brings to mind To Kill a Mockingbird when Atticus defends a black man, and of course justice runs amok. Each story contains different criminal acts and different outcomes. Grisham develops his characters extremely well, so that you can picture each individual. Of course, I remember a little of the movie starring Matthew McConaughey. The book is very lengthy, but well written.
Tricia Douglas
The Storied Life of A. J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin
Really a 4.5 rating! This was an ARC sent to me from Bookreporter.com. A great story about a book seller who has just lost his wife. The reader follows him through his life and his involvement with a publishing rep, finding and raising a child left in his book store, and suggestions of books one should read in their lifetime. The writing was smooth and easy, the story inventive, and the characters superb. A great book for any book club.
Sandy McCullough
The Widow Waltz by Sally Koslow
This book was very well written and I loved every word. Georgia's husband dies and they are very rich, but she finds out that she is almost penniless. She has to start selling things on eBay, selling her apt., and trying to find out where the money went. I won't tell you any more.
Kathy Vallee
Fourth Grave Beneath My Feet by Darynda Jones
Love this series. Always looking for the new one to come out and so very hard to put down.
patty shogren
Lady Killer by Lisa Scottoline
A who-done-it mystery. Entertaning.
patty shogren
Don't Go by Lisa Scottoline
A husband goes to war and what happens when he comes home.
patty shgren
The Chaperone by Laura Moriarty
Great book, beautifully written. Takes place in the early 20s. Woman takes girl to New York as a chaperone with her own agenda in mind.
Julie Caine
Love You More by Lisa Gardner
Fast-paced thriller that keeps the reader guessing. Roller coaster read... Am I cheering for the good guys or the bad guys?
Fran OH
The Radleys by Matt Haig
Another vampire novel... cute... likable family with a dark side.
WALTER KRETZMANN
Midnight in Mexico by Alfredo Corchado
As a Mexican American returning to Mexico to report for a U.S. newspaper, Corchado has an interesting perspective. He has a lot of interesting anecdotes about his experiences in Mexico. But as another reviewer has noted, he has apparently re-created a bunch of conversations from memory. This detracts from the factual nature of the book. And since the conversations are pretty stilted, it also doesn't do much for it stylistically. He has attempted to write both a journalistic account of the situation in Mexico and a personal memoir. That's a hard combination to manage, and I'm afraid he didn't quite pull it off.
WALTER KRETZMANN
The Impossible Lives of Greta Wells by Andrew Sean Greer
Not your typical time travel tale... This story lays out one woman's journey through three eras in a very cool and surprisingly easy to follow way. The characters are richly developed, and each era is beautifully painted, with detailed distinctions drawn from one to the next. This made for a great summer read and a fascinating reflection on depression and one woman's way out.
WALTER KRETZMANN
Worthy Brown's Daughter by Phillip Margolin
I've enjoyed a few earlier Margolin books, but this isn't him at his best. It's an attempt at a historical western, and is OK for that, but his fans will likely be disappointed. Still, it is Margolin and fans will read it. Just relax and enjoy, but you're not likely to find this to be one of his memorable books. Non-fans who pick this up hoping for a good western or historical novel set in the 1860s aren't likely to feel rewarded by it. Not really recommended, especially not for those looking for good western or historical fiction.
WALTER KRETZMANN
W is for Wasted by Sue Grafton
I have read all of Sue Grafton's books and liked them very much. I looked forward to this one, too. But it's too detailed about every little street she drives down, for instance, instead of getting to the nitty gritty. Repetitive. And the contrived family connections were confusing and boring at the same time. I do appreciate all her other books and the enjoyment I received from them, but this one is a thumbs down for me. Boohoo!
Vivian Taylor
The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin
This book is so much more than a booklover's dream; it's all about love, life, second chances and books. I read this book in one sitting over a few hours. I couldn't even think about picking up another book for a few days as I simply wanted to enjoy the "book hangover" while pondering this one.
WALTER KRETZMANN
A Constellation of Vital Phenomena by Anthony Marra
I kept trying to read this book, and dozing off with each attempt --- always a bad sign. I felt like I should read it, again a bad sign. So I finally just gave up. I don't fault the book. I could see why so many other people commented on the quality of writing and language. There are some lovely phrases and carefully crated sentences. I think the setting was too remote and unfamiliar for me. I couldn't find anything to latch onto and relate. I would encourage others to try this book, as it may speak to you.
WALTER KRETZMANN
The Kill Room by Jeffery Deaver
This felt like something Deaver cranked out. Lots of good details BUT not much character development. Only one character was intriguing, and the usual cast of characters put me to sleep.
