This contest period's winners were Clara M., Florence C., Janeene J., Sandy M. and Sara N., who each received a copy of ROBERT LUDLUM'S THE BOURNE ASCENDANCY by Eric Van Lustbader, TERMINAL CITY by Linda Fairstein, and THAT NIGHT by Chevy Stevens.
Patti DeMares
Stella Bain by Anita Shreve
Beautiful, yet complex story of losing one's memory, unlocking past history, of loss and love, set against the background of WWI. Great story by Shreve!
Tessa B C
Orphan Train by Christina Baker Kline
3.5*** This was a captivating novel made richer, I think, by using two time-lines, allowing the reader to compare and contrast the stories of 17-year-old Molly Ayer, a troubled teen in foster-care, and 91-year-old Vivian Daly, a wealthy widow living in a Victorian mansion. Kline effectively uses Molly’s Native American heritage in exploring one of the central issues. The novel also shines a light on a relatively unknown episode in American history. I was interested and engaged from beginning to end.
Lisa
The First Phone Call from Heaven by Mitch Albom
I think this book had the possibility of being a great book. What it did was introduce too many characters and then try to center the story around a few. It was very confusing and at times tedious. I am such a fan of Mr. Albom, read all of his other books because they all are amazing. This one just fell flat. I think we all would love a phone call from heaven and it does give hope to those who are grieving, but when the novel finishes you just don't feel wonderful or full of hope. I will look forward to his next book because he has the ability to create books of faith and magic.
Rhonda
Cutting Teeth by Julie Fierro
A wonderful book about a group of young couples invited to spend a weekend at the beach. Each couple bring their own issues - difficulty parenting, unhappy relationships. You will get involved and not want it to end.
Betty Taylor
Brutal Youth by Anthony Breznican
At first I did not care for this book. It took a while for it to hook me. The author took his time developing the characters and it paid off. As I read, I started caring about these kids. The title is definitely appropriate. Some of these kids were brutal and some had to become brutal to survive. The administrators of the school were appalling. I can't imagine how it would be to attend a school like this - and this was a private school! For some of the kids their life at home wasn't any better than their school life. The administrators and teachers looked the other way and sometimes were just as brutal as the kids. Father Mercedes had his own agenda for the school, which was required to cover his embezzlement of funds.
loretta sanford
People of the Book by Geraldine Brooks
On my list of books to read since 2008 when it was published. Great book,kept my interest the whole time and have recommended it to friends. I guess it is historical fiction as it follows illustrations of a family seder done in the 1300s in Spain to it's location today in a Bosnian Museum. The journey is the story.
Katharine Walczak
Flight Behavior by Barbara Kingsolver
This is a great book club book with lots of topics for discussion. The writing is wonderful.
Peggy Kincaid
Missing You by Harlan Coben
Here is a true summer thriller. If you start this one at the beach, you'd better watch out and don't burn because it is a real page-turner. Great characterization of main characters. What looks like a simple case of lonely women finding love on the internet turns out to be something far worse, but nobody realizes it except a young man whose mother has disappeared. There are two main plot lines running here and one subplot. Mr. Coben knows how to grab you by the throat with a truly scary tale, and don't we just love it.
Sara Novocin
The Fortune Hunter by Daisy Goodwin
I really enjoyed The Fortune Hunter. For me, though, I felt that the novel was more about the relationship between Charlotte and Bay than about Sisi and Bay as the back of the cover suggests. I found that I really didn't like or sympathize with Sisi, though I don't believe this was meant to be the author's intention. However, I did find many other characters very likable and well-developed. It was also interesting to see into the lives of the people of late 19th century Europe and their attitudes toward class differences.
Nancy Bader
The Other Story by Tatiana de Rosnay
De Rosnay's "SARAH'S KEY" is one of my favorite books. This one, about a man finding out his father wasn't who he thought he was and trying to discover the real story, was a huge disappointment and left me wondering what the author was thinking when she wrote it. There's not enough detail in the pertinent parts of the story and too much detail that I thought was unnecessary. I didn't like most of the characters, including the protagonist. Simply put, there really isn't anything about the book that would warrant my recommending it other than to say here's proof that a best-selling author doesn't always hit the mark.
Sally Lincoln
Ordinary Grace by William Kent Krueger
A wonderful book. The story is told through the eyes of a young boy. The story is about his family, friends and the town where he's a preacher's son, a brother and best friend. It is about a summer never to be forgotten with multiple deaths. He learns of trust, friendship and letting go. Well-written. You can picture all the places described and the characters are so real. I found myself thinking of the story long after I'd finished reading. A complete story that tells what becomes of these characters in their future years.
Helen Duncan
Catherine the Great by Robert K. Massie
Long but fascinating in detail and breadth. The story of an amazing life and woman, and a revealing portrait of the times in which she lived. I'm glad I took it on.
elaine beierbach
Terminal City by Linda Fairstein
I love the desrciptive passages.
Dennis Beierbach
Terminal City by Linda Fairstein
A well-paced tale.
Colin Beierbach
Terminal City by Linda Fairstein
This is the first book I read by this author, and I will now seek out her other titles.
Linda Reck
China Dolls by Lisa See
China Dolls Mines a fascinating part of our cultural history. It's 1938 in San Francisco, and Grace, Helen and Ruby, three young women from very different backgrounds meet as entertainers at the glamorous Forbidden City nightclub. The girls become good friends. When their dark secrets appear, their friendship stumbles, but they continue performing. After the attack on Pearl Harbor, everything changes.The story alternates between the three women and sometimes I found myself a little mixed up between them. Their characters, however, are richly portrayed and take hold of you. Lisa See's shining prose take us on an unforgettable journey of 50 years. I was impressed by the amount of research that went into this book.
Mary Rodriguez
Gilt Trip by Laura Childs
Another great book in the scrapbook shop series with lots of twist and turns to keep you reading.
Linda Johnson
Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert
Elizabeth's Gilbert's travels trying to recover from a divorce and a subsequent relationship are the basis for this book. She loves the food (and gains weight) in Italy. She works on her spirituality in India and finally finds a love she can accept as her new confident person in Indonesia.To me, the best part of the book was learning of customs in each country that are so different from what I would expect. Of special note, trying to help a native buy land for a house in Indonesia. That they were still friends at the end of the transaction is almost unbelievable.
I savored this book over many months as my back-up book. I'm ready to come home now.
Valerie Lazar
The Spectacular Now by Tim Tharp
Overall, this book really exemplifies the reality of teenage life. Sutter Keely, the main guy in this book, is a riot. He hates school, is getting horrible grades, drinks anytime he has the chance, and is a huge party animal. Until he meets Aimee Finecky, the quiet, shy, sweet girl. This book really shows a great bonding between the two, and as always, with its ups and downs. I knew a handful of kids in high school (including my friends) who have been addicted to alcohol. It is a serious issue that doesn't seem to be taken as seriously as I'd like. This book really explores this issue to a really deep level, which is something I really appreciated about this book. I recommend this book to any young adult/teenager.
Laura McDonald
The Son by Jo Nesbo
As soon as I finished this book, I begged my daughter and husband to read it. Flawlessly plotted, the story twists and turns its way to an awesome final scene that lingers in your heart and mind. Sonny Lofthus has stayed in prison for 12 of his 30 years, taking the fall for a murder he didn't commit in exchange for enough heroin to keep him strung out and quiet. Another prisoner gives him information about his father's suicide that penetrates the fog in his brain and changes his life. This would make a great movie - it has action, romance, suspense, and a thrilling conclusion.
Rosemary Sobczak
The Target by David Baldacci
Kept me up until the wee hours! A real page turner!
Carolyn Burnsides
A Dog's Journey by W. Bruce Cameron
The book was good. The story was about a dog's soul reappearing over and over again in different bodies, protecting and consoling, over a few decades, and always wanting to be a good dog.
Janeene Johnston
I See You Made An Effort: Compliments, Indignities, and Survival Stories from the Edge of 50 by Annabelle Gurwitch
First, let me say that I am a sucker for book titles - if it has a funny/good title, then it goes on my to-read list. So, of course this one caught my eye. As a soon to be 50-year-old myself, of course I was going to give this a listen. The audio version was good, but I think I expected more - more laugh out loud moments maybe? Some parts were 3-star parts, some just 2, so overall a 2.5 listen.
Geraldine Bryan
Philomena by Martin Sixsmith
A remarkable story of the power of ties between a child and mother. A search that went on for decades. Insight into the gay community and the Catholic church and unwed mothers in the 1950s. Also, a good book about adopted children and the unanswered questions they have to live with.
Elizabeth Petrovich
Empire Girls by Suzanne Hayes & Loretta Nyhan
New York New York... Ivy and Rose Adams traveled to New York City after their father passed away and left them penniless. They also had another mission, which was to find a brother they never even knew existed and a brother that their father left everything to. EMPIRE GIRLS will steal your heart and have you missing the characters after you turn the last page. The ending is heartwarming as well as a surprise. Don’t miss reading EMPIRE GIRLS for a glimpse into life in the 1920s and a reminder of the importance of friendship and family.
Pat Lewis
China Dolls by Lisa See
Lisa always seems to draw you into the culture of the people she writes about. I have read her other books and this one did not let me down. I recommend it for anyone who enjoys Lisa's writing.
Pat Pascale
Pressed Pennies by Steven Manchester
Steven Manchester is a great storyteller and tells the story of Rick and Abby, childhood sweethearts, who get separated in their teens, marry and divorce and meet again. Their love ignites once again, but this time they have Abby's daughter, Paige, age 8, who fights their being together with everything she has. She and her mother swore on pinkies wrapped together that it would be "just us two", and she wanted that promise kept by her mother. Rick is endearing, patient, and very romantic. His engagement attempt in a hot air balloon touched me and had me rooting for him and for Paige to discover what a loving and delightful man he was. A heartfelt story of second chances and a love that has passed the test of time. I loved every page!
Marsha
Criminal Enterprise by Owen Laukkanen
FBI Special Agent Carla Windermore is on the trail of a bank robber. She is persistent as the jobs keep getting bigger and more violent. She has an inkling it is an accountant that is living far beyond his means. Her ex-partner just happens to help the guy coach their daughters' basketball games. The have been very good partners in the past, but he has moved on to the BCA as an investigator. This is a wild and thrilling read.
jane Kimball
White Fire by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child
FBI Agent Pendergast is one of my favorite characters. He doesn't disappoint in this mystery.
Judy McGee
Northanger Abbey by Val McDermid
This is an update of the classic Jane Austen book of the same name. It was a shock to find Catherine with a cell phone and using social media to communicate with friends and family. Anything Val McDermid does, she does well. This book is definitely worth a read.
Linda Harrison
Waiting On You by Kristan Higgins
Colleen O’Rourke fell in love with Lucas Campbell the first time she saw him. With a dark complexion thanks to his Puerto Rican mother, he resembled a pirate with his dark eyes and curly black hair. Lucas and Colleen were together until he went to college where he met and married the daughter of a rich industrialist. Ten years later, he is divorced and back in Manningsport. Colleen still loves him, but he had broken her heart before and she was afraid it would happen again. Lucas had always felt like an outcast until he was with Colleen. Could these two have a second chance at love?
Linda Harrison
The Countess Confessions by Jillian Hunter
A rollicking story where a headstrong young woman poses as a fortune teller to turn the head of a young man she admires. Her plan backfires when a stranger barges into the tent to hide from someone and is instantly smitten by the young lady. He is working undercover as an agent for the Crown of England while she goes against her father’s orders by attending the ball. When her father hears of her hiding in a tower with the stranger, he insists that they marry. This was not in Emily’s plans at all, nor was it in Damien’s plans.
Linda Harrison
Prince of Ravenscar by Catherine Coulter
Sophie has come to London with her Aunt Roxanne for the season to find a husband. Corinne Monroe was best friend’s with Sophie’s mother and wants Sophie to wed her son. Julian Monroe is known as the prince of Ravenscar; his father gave him this nickname. He feels he is too old for Sophie, but feelings have a way of changing and sometimes mothers do know best.
Linda Harrison
Twilight by Sherryl Woods
When Dana Miller’s husband is killed, she is determined not to rest until she finds his killer. First off her list is Rick Sanchez, head of the Yo! Amigo program for children and teens living in the barrio section of Chicago. Ken Miller was shot and killed while outside the building and the police are convinced it was a drive-by shooting. But as Dana and Rick get more involved in the investigation, leads point to members of Ken’s church. How could these upstanding citizens be involved? Dana was about to find out.
Linda Harrison
The Kraken Project by Douglas Preston
The Kraken Project is the name given to the planned exploration of the Kraken Mare, the largest sea on Saturn’s moon. NASA programmer Melissa Shepherd has developed software and named it Dorothy. The software became a self-modifying artificial intelligence (AI). When Dorothy felt danger during the testing phase, she escaped from the module and caused an explosion. Fleeing from the danger, Dorothy fled into the unknown world of the internet. This was a fascinating book and one that you won’t be able to put down. It deserves more than 5 stars.
Linda Harrison
Boots Under Her Bed by Jodi Thomas, Jo Goodman, Kaki Warner, Alison Kent
This book has four short stories about the Old West by each of the authors. Each is a romance featuring a strong young woman.
Sally Bergstedt
Unsaid by Neil Abramson
What a fantastic book! You learn about grief, medical research on animals, the bond between humans and animals and their emotions, and the working together for a common cause. This is a story told from a deceased female veterinarian and how her family/friends cope after she is gone. The only minor problems I had was that at times you didn't realize it was the deceased vet voicing her thoughts, and also the 4th or 5th chapter was a little dry, relating the computer aspects of the research. Very realistic and wonderful writing! This book deserves more attention and readership.
Judy O.
Once We Were Brothers by Ronald H. Balson
This is an absolutely top-rate book! It literally took over my life until I finished it. Elliot Rosenzweig is a billionaire philanthropist in Chicago. In 2004, he is accused by a man named Ben Solomon of being a Nazi SS Officer who committed unspeakable crimes during the German takeover of Europe in WWII. Solomon gets a lawyer and a private investigator to believe in his story, and the work of proving these claims begins. Riveting reading.
susan gannon
Inkheart by Cornila Funke
Fantasy YA tale. Intriguing.
Marsha
The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin
Any book that tells of a small island book store with this sign hanging above the porch, "No Man is an island: Every Book is a World", is bound to be popular with readers. It explores the themes of loneliness, second chances, the ability to love and be loved, to care for others and to instill the love of books in all lives.
Laura Beierbach
Terminal City by Linda Fairstein
This is the first book by Linda I have read. I found it enjoyable and look to read others.
Mary Hayden
One Lavender Ribbon by Heather Burch
If I could give this book more stars, I would. It is one of the best books I have read in a very long time. It could be called a multi-generational novel, but it is not really that. However, there are so many emotions, experiences, etc. it is hard to describe in words--you just need to read this book. Unlike so many of the books written these days, there is no graphic sex, violence, etc., yet there is so much emotion it just moves the reader. The characters are more like real people than most novels portray, so I felt joy, sorrow, etc. with each and every one of them. I repeat - this book is a must read.
Debbie Maskus
The Book Stops Here by Kate Carlisle
This is my first encounter with the writing of Kate Carlisle, and I enjoyed the journey. I had read a book in the past that centered on bookbinding and rare books, but that book hopped all over the world and involved espionage and murder. Kate Carlisle's book presents a cozy mystery and an introduction to bookbinding and to learning about the valuation of rare books. I have never read THE SECRET GARDEN but feel compelled to find a copy and immerse myself in the story. As to THE BOOK STOPS HERE, Carlisle writes well, with the right mixture of simple language and intellectual vocabulary. Carlisle's characters and setting jump-start your imagination so a clear picture emerges.
Tessa B C
Three Bags Full by Leoni Swann
Audiobook performed by Josephine Bailey. A flock of sheep emerge from the hay barn and discover their shepherd dead. Who killed him? The sheep are determined to find out who the killer is and bring him or her to justice. I was completely engaged and interested in this very different murder mystery. Swann fills the book with philosophical ruminations, sprinkles in some ethics and morality, and adds a good dose of humor. It was a delightful surprise, and I’m glad I read it.
Lynn W
The Age of Innocence by Edith Wharton
A classic chosen by book club discussion leader. Read this some years back, but was pleased to read it again. It's nice to slow down and read the elegant writing of one-hundred years ago.
Becky Haase
Dog Gone, Back Soon by Nick Trout
If you like animals and are in need of a good laugh or two, DOG GONE, BACK SOON is just the book for you. The plot has enough twists to keep you guessing. The characters are likeable and clearly drawn. The animals, especially Stash, are quirky and entertaining. My one quibble is that I occasionally had to read the dialogue a second time and pay careful attention or I would not know who was speaking – and it makes a difference! A few identifying comments would have been helpful. The romance is of the hand holding/ peck on the cheek variety so those who prefer to avoid hot and heavy sex need not fear, nor is there any foul language. The supporting characters, both human and four legged, are engaging and amusing.
Gretchen Kempff
The Azaleas by Katie Wainwright
New Orleans & St. Francisville are the settings of this mystery. Typical light reading; a good beach book.
Carolyn Moon
Shattered by Karen Robards
This book contains everything - mystery, suspense, romance, and surprises from beginning to end. You are drawn into the book at the very beginning and can't put it down until the end. Plan on reading this book all at one sitting.
Jan Zahrly
The Gods of Guilt by Michael Connelly
This may be the best Mickey Haller book yet. Complex mysteries go back a decade, and Haller seems to be surprised often. This is unusual because Haller is usually on the top of his game. There are no red herrings, each problem is connected to another. Haller takes a murder case based on a referral from a past client, but the past client is the one who has been murdered. Her "pimp" is accused of the murder, but he is clueless when dealing with the police. Haller has always had his demons but they are magnified by the deaths of his daughter's friends. The deaths came at the hands of a man Haller rescued from a guilty plea earlier, and his daughter cannot forgive him. Connelly builds personal and public guilt in this thriller.
Becky Haase
Irish Eyes by Mary Kay Andrews
Callahan Garrity, private eye and cleaning lady, loses a former partner and good friend when he makes a quick stop at a convenience store. Callahan, even after being warned off, tries to find the bad guys involved. The writing is tightly plotted, the story line will keep you guessing, the characters are likeable – except of course, for the sleazy ones. Andrews has another winner in her Garrity series of mysteries. Her fans will love it and new readers, who need not have read any others in series, will find a new author to seek out.
4 of 5 stars
Bonnie Gluhanich
One More Thing by B. J. Novak
This is a book of short, some very short, fiction. Novak has such a quirky, unique way of looking at the world that this is unlike anything else you've read.
Becky Haase
The All-Girl Filling Station's Last Reunion by Fannie Flagg
Flagg has moved from the South to Pulaski, Wisconsin for her tale of an immigrant family and the four daughters who take it upon themselves to run the family filling station and take up flying fighter planes during World War II. But never fear, Sookie, a Southern bell who isn’t quite up to snuff according to her domineering mother, discovers she is not a Simmons, but was adopted (horrors!), and is also a main character. How these facts intertwine is the story that will hold your attention. The four Polish sisters are based on the actual women who flew airplanes from factory to airfield (and sometimes further) to relieve the “real pilots” for combat duty. Their story makes up the bulk of The All-Girl Filling Station.
Becky Haase
Nora Bonesteel's Christmas Past by Sharyn McCrumb
Two separate Christmas stories that take place in McCrumb’s Appalachia are intertwined in this cozy novel. Although the stories never link, they are both lyrical and atmospheric. McCrumb’s characters are fully developed even though the two stories are individually quite short – novella length. Both combine comic scenes with pathos. I enjoyed the jumps from story to story as the chapters alternate stories. Some may find this disconcerting.
Bonnie Gluhanich
Euphoria by Lily King
Fascinating novel. If you enjoyed OUT OF AFRICA or THE POISONWOOD BIBLE, this may be for you.
Marsha
By its Cover by Donna Leon
If you are a fan of Donna Leon's books featuring Commissario Guido Brunetti of Venice, then you will enjoy this as well. Brunnetti has a low key way of solving the cases that come his way. Along the way we learn about the lives of the everyday people of Venice.
Suzy Katz
Delicious! by Ruth Reichl
This is the best book I've read in a long time, and I could not put it down until I finished it. The writing was suburb, and I felt like I was right there watching the events transpire. As the book progressed, I was intrigued by the 2 story lines crisscrossing each other. I realize this was a work of fiction, but in many instances I believed this was based on a true story. I highly recommend this book.
A. Brim
Rising Tides by Emilie Richards
Aurore Gerritsen leaves instructions after her death to bring together her family and a few other people in her Louisiana house. Each person is required to stay the few days to receive the bequests she has left them. Aurore's secrets are revealed and ties between the people are shocking. A hurricane is brewing so between the tensions among the people and the weather, it all comes to an interesting climax.
A. Brim
A Change of Fortune by Jen Turano
Lady Eliza Sumner comes to America to find the man who stole her fortune.She disguises herself as a nanny. She meets Hamilton Beckett, a very eligible bachelor and they join forces to find the man who stole her fortune; he is also the man who is affecting Hamilton's business.
Linda Johnson
We Were Liars by E. Lockart
A group of teen cousins and another friend spend summers together on an island off the coast of Massachusetts. They are known as "The Liars" - why is never really explained. Maybe you can figure it out. You'll want to talk about this afterwards, but you'll only be able to if the next person has read it.
Francisca E B
The Tower, The Zoo and the Tortoise by Julia Stuart
3.5*** Balthazar Jones, his wife, Hebe, and their pet tortoise have lived in the Tower of London since he became a Beefeater. The central story revolves around their struggle to cope with the loss of their son. We come to know these two wounded souls by watching them at work. Interspersed with their stories we have tidbits of Tower trivia, and a reverend with a secret secular life. The result is a quirky love story, a mini-lesson in history, and a whimsical social commentary all rolled into one. Some of the scenarios were a little too over-the-top, but I was interested from beginning to end, and enjoyed it overall.
Judson Hanson
A Few Drops of Blood by Jan Merete Weiss
A Few Drops of Blood by Jan Merete Weiss is a well-written second novel featuring Captain Natalia Monte from this relatively new author. While I wouldn't call it a “cozy” mystery, neither is the main character as hard-boiled as Harry Bosch. Despite this, it is still an enjoyable read. I see real potential in this series, and it should appeal to readers, especially women, who enjoy a good police procedural without the very graphic descriptions of other authors in this genre. I plan to seek out the first book in this series and will definitely read Weiss' subsequent novels.
Nancy Hausladen
Sycamore Row by John Grisham
I really enjoyed this book. This is a sequel to his book, "A Time To Kill". The story takes place in Mississippi in the eighties. Jake is sent a handwritten will by a man who has just killed himself. This will leaves his estate to his black housekeeper and excludes his family. It is Jake's job to prove in court that this will precedes the previous one. Very interesting story with some surprises.
Susan Latham
The Fortune Hunter by Daisy Goodwin
Book jacket is misleading - you think you are going to read a story about the Empress of Austria, but she is just a character in the storyline. The book is actually about a very wealthy orphan and her coming of age in the 1800s. I did like the book; at times found it hard to put it down.
George Waggoner
The Black Cat by Martha Grimes
In my opinion, Ms. Grimes is the absolute master (mistress?) of the sophisticated, literate mystery genre. Her lead characters, Richard Jury and Melrose Plant, are beautifully realized and well- complemented by other, well drawn, three-dimensional second liners. This plot was as complex as expected, and the climax brilliant and satisfying.
Barbara Studer
Almost a Bride (Wyoming Wildflowers Book 1) by Patricia McLinn
My third Patricia McLinn story and enjoyed it as much as the first two. Am liking knowing the background of the parents on this one. Dave Currick has been in love with Matty Brennan his whole life, yet, listening to wiser older family, he feels he must cut her loose. After 6 years, she is back and proposes to him and wants to marry him RIGHT NOW. He has no idea why but he cannot refuse, he can never refuse helping Matty. It's obvious there are sparks between them, but they try and fight them until they cannot anymore. But will Dave learn he cannot always protect and fix everything for Matty? A very enjoyable read. Onto the next Patricia McLinn....I am on a roll!!
JoAnn Carroll
The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt
Beautifully written story of a young boy's journey after losing his mother tragically at age 12. Although very lengthy (700+ pages), I felt it could have been somewhat condensed at various parts of the book without losing the overall genius of the plot.
Trina Parker
Nine Man's Murder by Eric Keith
Great read. Will keep you guessing until the end.
Pamela Robison
Flight Behavior by Barbara Kingsolver
I loved everything about this book: the characters were well drawn and believable, the setting was described beautifully, and even the lesson of "the butterfly effect" in nature was done well without being heavy-handed. The main character is a woman that, I think, most female readers can sympathize with as well as relate to. Also, the male characters are well rounded and understandable. Kingsolver manages to infuse humor into some difficult situations that made me like her characters and want to continue reading. A wonderful, beautifully-written story.
Michael McAdam
A Feast for Crows by George R. R. Martin
After 3 fantastic books in the series, I had very high expectations for book 4. I knew going in that the book was only going to follow a few of the characters from the series. Great! Fewer characters mean more development and more plot, right? Nope. Plots moved at a glacial pace or came to a screeching halt so characters could tell each other stories... huh? I was disappointed. There are some delicious chapters but a few too many about minor characters that didn't interest me. Overall, just okay. A bad GRRM book is still pretty good. :)
Sonnie Strolberg
Burned by Thomas Enger
An Oslo investigative crime reporter returns to his job after a fire killed his son and left his face scarred and his nights filled with horrific dreams. He is called to investigate the killing of a young woman that appears to be a Middle Eastern-style honor killing. Darkness invades the souls of many people, culture and society on many levels.
Bonnie Gluhanich
Heart of Palm by Laura Lee Smith
Nice sense of place in this chick lit novel set in Florida.
Marsha
Kill Me If You Can by James Patterson & Marshall Karp
This is a surprisingly delightful thriller by the combo Patterson & Karp. We have an art student, his beautiful teacher, two hired killers out for each other and a medical bag full of diamonds, which the mob is determined to recapture. This is a winner-take-all high-speed, high-stakes, exciting read.
Denise Beierbach
Terminal City by Linda Fairstein
I prefer a little more hype to my thrillers.
Dorothy Flood
You Should Have Known by Jean Hanff Korelitz
Not worth the effort. Finished it because I wanted to know what happened. Much too descriptive about things that were not relevant to story.
Phyllis
Save The Date by Mary Kay Andrews
SAVE THE DATE is a great way to spend some time revisiting Mary Kay Andrew's Savannah. Cara is busy growing her new florist business and fending off an aggressive competitor and her ex-husband. She finds that along with providing flowers for weddings, she also has to deal with anxious brides and family problems. It's a great escape with a mix of characters, dogs, humor and, of course, romance for Cara and Jack (a sexy contractor) and their friends. I always look forward to a new Mary Kay Andrews book, and I wasn't disappointed with SAVE THE DATE.
shelly itkin
The Flip by Michael Phillip Cash
Mr. Cash has written a really interesting book combining the past and the present with some very unusual situations. Julie and Brad Evans are house flippers and usually buy inexpensive houses they can invest a little money in and flip for a profit. When Julie finds the Hemming’s House on Bedlam Street in Cold Spring Harbor, she cannot resist the old charm of the house even though it is going to needs lots of repairs. When Brad starts working on the house, he is not prepared for the previous owners to keep showing up. Things are becoming strained between Julie and Brad, as he wants to quickly finish the repairs and flip it. Julie, on the other hand, envisions it as a beautiful bed and breakfast and wants to do more than flip the property.
Susan Kolodny
Same Kind of Different as Me by Ron Hall and Denver Moore
It is hard to believe that this story of sharecropping in modern-day America is a true story. Beautifully told in alternating voices of Ron Hall, the wealthy art dealer, and Denver Moore, the dirt poor cotton-picker, the reader learns how their lives intercept and a friendship blossoms with the aid of Debbie Hall, Ron's wife. Great read for a book club!
Linda Frashure
The Old Man and the Sea by Ernest Hemmingway
I read this many years ago and picked it for my book club choice for next month. Reading it again was a completely different experience. I can't wait for the discussion with our group. The ladies range in age from 40-70, and it will be so interesting to hear all the discussion. I highly recommend this book for all ages!
Cathy Née
Me Before You by Jojo Moyes
Excellent book club book. So much to discuss and think about. We'll worth the read.
Emily Moseley
The Leftovers by Tom Perrotta
The inspiration for the forthcoming series on HBO, I was curious to read THE LEFTOVERS, which focuses on several characters left behind when roughly 2% of the world disappears on one day (which some regard as the Rapture). By focusing on on those that are left behind rather than the reason for the disappearances, the book shows how differently people cope with disaster and how they grow and evolve as they continue waking up each day in their new reality. The series is bound to sensationalize the book, so I think it's important to read the book and take note of Perrotta's themes separately from the drama of the TV series.
Betty Ramsey
Ordinary Grace by William Kent Krueger
This book is about events in a small town where children could walk around town, even at night, and not be accosted or murdered. Then, deaths began to occur and everything changed. A thirteen year old boy and his younger brother are caught up in those events and changed by them. Told by that boy 30 years later, the book is beautifully written by an author I have just come to know and appreciate. I related to this book because I was raised in a very small town and did many of the things told about here - things that would have worried my parents if they had known. But this was in the 40s when we were still pretty innocent of the uglier things in life. This is a very good story told very well.
MaryAnne Long
Eli the Good by Silas House
This book is a vivid reminder of the long-lasting wounds of war. It is a story of the sustaining injuries that families of the survivors of combat and terrorism endure in the aftermath. It is also the story of an earlier time in a small town, a country kind of life that was simpler and marvelously poetic. It is a can't stop reading story of lives that love and hate, of lives mixed up and of growing up, all centered around a ten-year-old boy's life that becomes yours as you read.
Amanda Pape
The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt
Despite the length, I am glad I listened to it, as the narrator, actor David Pittu, is outstanding. I'm not surprised his performance earned the 2014 Audie Awards for Literary Fiction and Male Solo Performance. He made what could have been a tedious book more bearable. Donna Tartt's language kept me going through this book, even when it bogged down with too much detail. The characters are memorable, especially Theo and his Las Vegas childhood friend Boris, both of whom are growing up mostly alone, with an absentee father. For me, what was most compelling about this book was Theo's grief and guilt at the loss of his mother. He felt he was to blame for her death, which colors much of the rest of his life, and the often poor decisions he made.
kathy brogan
The Gate House by Nelson DeMille
A sequel to THE GOLD COAST, it is a well-written novel. It was compelling and also funny. DeMille has a wry sense of humor, which is not in all of his books, but is definitely in this one. Both books are good, but I enjoyed this one more. I actually felt that I was in this character's head and seeing and feeling what he was. Good read.
Meggan Weaver
Orphan Train by Christina Baker Kline
My book club discussed this just last week, and we rated it 3/5. Several of us are teachers, and we loved the "portage" assignment. I think that it would be interesting to try with students of varying ages; young children would be very concrete in their thinking, while older students could certainly address metaphorical journeys. Several members are history buffs, and this book is motivating them to learn more about the orphan trains. We look forward to their reports next month!
Janice Charlton
The Fortune Hunter by Daisy Goodwin
Very good book. Interesting look at the lives of and restrictions on women in Europe during the late 1800s. Characters were well-developed and story line kept my attention. The ending was a bit too predictable.
Laura M. Ginn
The Orphan Train by Christina Baker Kline
Enjoyed the story. Difficult time to have lived. People meant well sending "the orphan trains" out west, but oh the cruelty and sadness that could happen to some of the children. I now wonder how many children found a loving home to grown up in or if it was all a big, bad mistake. I am even at my ripe old age (79) constantly amazed at how mean some people can be. I pray for children/adults that are in bad living arrangements, be it with their own families or with caretakers.
Francisca E B
My Beloved World by Sonia Sotomayor
Audio book performed by Rita Moreno. The first Latina Supreme Court Justice chronicles her childhood, youth, training and experience on the road to becoming a federal judge. I found it interesting, and I was captivated from the beginning. Rita Moreno does a wonderful job of narrating the audio version. She has an enthusiasm that is infectious and really brings life to the text.
Rezina Emmons
The Secret Adversary by Agatha Christie
Knowing it was only her 2nd book made a difference. Great story - had me guessing until the end.
Linda Johnson
50 Popular Beliefs That People Think Are True by Guy P. Harrison
The author emphasizes critical thinking and scientific proof as ways to persuade the reader (listener) to look at ghosts, The Bermuda Triangle, psychics, and even heaven and hell. He lost me with his presentations on religion. (There is a reason it's called faith.)
Helen M Powers
My Beloved World by Sonia Sotomayor
Very moving story about the early life of Sonia Sotomayor and how her family has influenced her and the impact of her early life upbringing. The book was very interesting and gave a good background of Judge Sotomayor.
Debbie Maskus
The Road from Gap Creek by Robert Morgan
This book centered on an interesting concept, but the writing fell flat. The narrator, Annie, tells a simple, but moving story of life in the North Carolina mountains during World War II and the Great Depression. The reader follows Annie and her family and friends through decades of hard times and their struggles to maintain an existence. Annie starts the tale as a young girl living in a simple cabin, but the story quickly ends when Annie is around 30. Annie returns many times to certain events, and the reader begins to think she is a feeble old woman who cannot remember what part of the story she has already told. The jumping back and forth from the different times did not work well.
Jan Zahrly
The Blazing World by Siri Hustvedt
This book simply did not do it for me. I already knew that women and women's work have less value than men and men's work. I also knew that through the ages, women have taken on male personae for the world to see. Women have published, performed research, gone to war, etc. as men and they are still less valued when they have feminine gender. Furthermore, the insertion of so much irrelevant material about psychology, art history, etc. only displays that the author is well-educated and that she is insecure about it. Give your readers more credit -- we can read and apply our superb knowledge, too.
Jan Zahrly
Starting Now by Debbie Macomber
Another charming book from Macomber. The writing is fast-paced, the characters are going to fall in love, get hurt, make friends, have problems at work, etc., just as we all do. Macomber is the queen of quick reads that give us good feelings. There is no horror nor evil, just life. This Blossom Street novel brings in a new character, a lawyer, Libby Morgan, who has suddenly lost her job. She wanders around and finds the yarn store, finds new friends, a male interest, good volunteer work and herself. This is a feel-good book.
I received a free review copy of the book from Goodreads.
Kathy Vallee
Shattered Souls by Mary Lindsey
Wow what a wonderful story. I was totally unable to put this book down, - read it in two days!
Lenzi hears voices, sees visions, gravestones, floods, a gorgeous guy with steel grey eyes. She knows she must be going crazy just like her dad did. She can not tell her mom cause she will think she is just like her dad, and her boyfriend cannot help. Then she meets Alden, the boy from her dreams, and everything now starts to fall into place and make sense. He tells Lenzi that she is a reincarnated Speaker - someone who can talk to lost souls and is there to help them move on. He is her Protector, and they have been doing this over and over for centuries.
Shazia Fatima
The Fault in Our Stars by John Green
Honestly, I think the book deserves two stars, not one because the author at least had knowledge on writing books, but not necessarily well-written books. The book fell short of a great plot ( visiting Amsterdam just to find out what happens in a book both main characters, Hazel and Augustus, love is just very unbelievable). Hazel and Gus (Augustus) spoke like old-aged people, however, they're supposed to be 16, and that was kind of disappointing. The love story was shallow, so were the main characters. The book was very unrealistic that it didn't cause me to burst into tears. The author sounded pretty smart, but didn't know how to use his knowledge in writing a good story. I wouldn't recommend this book.
JoRn
Mr. Mercedes by Stephen King
Loved this book. I read it in one day.
Mary Jean Martin
Natchez Burning by Greg Iles
Penn Cage is a southern mayor and former prosecutor who finds himself embroiled in his father's past during the 1960s. Cage has been featured in a few previous books, and I recommend reading them in order. It is not necessary to read the previous books to appreciate and enjoy this book. The racial tension of 1960 Mississippi is wonderfully depicted and enthralling. It is a terrific book that is very suspenseful and a literary novel at the same time.
Nancy Bader
Light in the Ruins by Chris Bohjalian
Bohjalian is one of my favorite authors, and this book re-enforces that preference. It's the story of an Italian family that will do anything to save its home during the Second World War, and the price the family pays a decade later. If you haven't read Bohjalian, there are a lot to choose from. MIDWIVES is a great one to start with. They all stand on their own.
Donna Shaw
The Secret Keeper by Kate Morton
This is the first book I've read by this author and it won't be the last. In fact, I'm going to select this book for my book club, so I'll be reading it again in a few months. Everytime I thought I had the secrets figured out, I was blindsided and was wrong. The story begins in London during WWII and and picks up again 50 years later. A great page-turner.
Yasemin Botas
Looking For Alaska by John Green
It will change your perspective on life, love, and dreams! Alaska Young is intriguing and full of mystique. "Pudge" is dazzled by her and tries to solve the mystery that surrounds her. It is a wonderful story that teaches readers ways to deal with loss.
Linda Reck
Summer House with Swimming Pool by Herbert Koch
Dr. Marc Shlosser, the narrator, is imbued with a sense of his own self-importance. He takes matters into his own hands and acts on them. He finds patients' bodies repulsive. I found him repulsive. When a medical procedure goes terribly wrong and a famous actor dies, Marc needs to come up with some answers. It all started the previous summer when Marc and his family spent a week at the grandiose summer house of the actor. They are joined by a Hollywood director and his much younger girlfriend. Things run smoothly until a violent incident occurs. Darker motivations are revealed and suddenly no one can be trusted. SUMMER HOUSE WITH SWIMMING POOL is an incisively compelling book. It's filled with psychological insight. I despised Marc.
jane Kimball
King and Maxwell by David Baldacci
It doesn't get any better than reading King and Maxwell. I hope there are more novels about them.
Marian
Whistling Past the Graveyard by Susan Crandall
I love Southern books, and this one grabbed me from the start. The young girl tells the story of her adventures going to see her mom and growing up in the 1960s.
Jan Zahrly
Silenced by Kristina Ohlsson
Kristina Ohlsson is a great mystery writer. She continues to develop the characters created in Unwanted. Alex Recht and Fredrika Bergman work better together than before. Maybe it is because Fredrika is now pregnant, assuring the reader that there will be a follow-up novel with Fredrika and her baby. We don't know if the father will be a part of their lives. A leading advocate for immigration to Sweden is murdered along with his wife. At first it appears as suicide and there are differing opinions from friends. Both daughters are missing, but then one daughter is reported dead from an overdose. There is evil, so many lies, and many twists and turns in this mystery. Even at the end, there seem to be loose ends. A must read!
Lois Lilling
Scent of Butterflies by Dora Levy Mossanen
This is an exciting novel that is hard to put down. There is betrayal by a wife, a best friend,
and the husband. All are guilty. The story starts in Iran, but moves to California where events conclude with an unexpected outcome.
Lois Lilling
Orphan Train by Christina Baker Kline
The lives of two orphans from different times are dissected as they share their lives. One is an immigrant and the other a child who has lived in a string of unhappy foster homes. The comparisons are uncanny.
Clara Moseley
Orphan Train by Christina Baker Kline
Best book I've read so far this year. It's a novel but based on actual history, an event about which I knew absolutely nothing. I read it in one day - couldn't put it down (one of the good things about retirement). It was a pick for our local book club. I actually had picked it after hearing about it on NPR. Everyone in the club liked it and we had a good session. The discussion questions in the back were very good.
Becky Haase
Slow Dollar by Margaret Maron
Fans of Deborah Knott will appreciate this novel that introduces some long lost relatives, visits a carnival and finds murder among the rides and “stores.” You will learn quite a bit about carnivals and the carnies that populate them. Deborah’s relatives are kind, forgiving, mean-spirited, long suffering, angry – you name it. They are all here just like in real life. Maron supplies us with another tightly crafted, engaging mystery. Although this is the 8th tale in this series, you can read this book without having read any of the others. The family tree is helpful in identifying all of Deborah’s many brothers and their progeny. A satisfying read.
B. Klaassen
The Mason Jar by James Russell Lingerfelt
This book did allow me to think about a "broken heart" from the male point of view. The book was well-written, except the ending. The end of the book got confusing for me because the publisher or editor decided to share some of the "deleted" parts as "Reader's Extra", and those parts really did not fit well with the finished book. I did enjoy most of the characters and Christian themes in this book. This author was new to me, and he gave me a great impression with this book.
Francisca E B
Bossypants by Tina Fey
We know her as an incredibly talented comedian, actress, and producer of the Emmy-winning 30 Rock. Well, Tina Fey is also a pretty good writer. In this memoir, she recounts her childhood in Pennsylvania, her start as a member of The Second City, her years at Saturday Night Live and her rise to creating and producing her hit TV show. I’m very glad that Fey narrated the audiobook herself. I can’t imagine anyone else being able to do justice to it.
Mary Mahoney
The Fortune Hunter by Daisy Goodwin
A love triangle of the Victorian era featuring a cast of colorful characters. Bay Middleton, the greatest horseman in England, is involved with the beautiful Empress of Austria and a young heiress, Charlotte Baird. The Empress, known as Sisi, and Charlotte are both living in a world where they are restricted in their movements and activities by their gender. Sisi and Charlotte are able to make their way around society because they are both strong, intelligent and independent women.
Deb Muzik
Mercy Snow by Tiffany Baker
Listened to the unabridged audio version with Christine Lakin as the exceptional performer.
Cheryl Stillwell
Mary Boleyn: The Mistress of Kings by Alison Weir
An interesting insight into the life of King Henry VIII.
LENNY BRONSTEIN
The King's Deception by Steve Berry
Can I give it a 7? I've read all of Steve Berry's novels and all are history-based & fast-paced & detail perfect, but this is a 2-sitting read (you have to sleep sometime). My wife took it and read it in the same amount of time. Without revealing anything, you will wonder forever about Queen Elizabeth. As in all great adventure novels, multiple plots populated by compelling characters that keep colliding into a series of conclusions are expertly drawn. Even if you are not fascinated by historical novels, this will change your perceptions and envelop you totally. Cotton Malone is one of those protagonists who you will keep coming back to.
Erika Loiacono
All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr
A wonderful story about a French blind girl and a German boy during World War II. I couldn't put it down.
Marsha
All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr
This extraordinary novel follows two young people in Germany and France as WWII dawns. The girl is blind and her father keeps the keys to a Natural History Museum. The boy lives in an orphanage and excels in radio building. How their lives intersect is fascinating as we understand the horrors of war for the children of each nation.
Ruth Dupchen
Sentence of Marriage (Promises to Keep Volume 1) by Shayne Parkinson
I finished this book and I loved it. I just couldn't put it down. I am now starting to read Mud and Gold, the second book. It is a continuation of the first book. I just can't put that one down. It is so moving.
Simonne
The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion
Hilarious love story about a socially inept genetics professor (think Sheldon of The Big Bang Theory) who has his very organized world turned upside down by a free-spirit named Rosie.
Jayne Blackledge
The River of Doubt: Theodore Roosevelt's Darkest Journey by Candice Millard
This book took readers in our book club into the fascinating world of the rain forest while experiencing a trip few would attempt. Readers enjoyed finding out interesting events in Roosevelt's life and the many trials he faced. The book included many facts, but was interesting and readable. The plants and animals of the area were amazing, and time was spent at the meeting discussing them and the loss of rain forest regions of the world. Our group would recommend this great read. The length of the book makes it a good selection for a month when readers have additional time to enjoy a longer tome.
Pat Freely
Defenders by Will McIntosh
Started the book at 12:00 and could not put it down. The story is about human nature and how we fear what we don't understand.
Pat Freely
A Shiver of Light by Laurell K. Hamilton
Well written. The characters are believable, and I cried along with them. Story line is well thought out and moves well.
Suzanne Turzillo
Orphan Train by Christina Baker Kline
This was an excellent book that kept you engaged. I loved the history of the book. I didn't want it to end. The characters were well-developed.
Barbara Walker
Field of Prey by John Sandford
Great book by John Sandford. I love all his Lucas Davenport and Virgil Flowers novels. If you haven't read any of his books, you are missing out.
Barbara Walker
A Wanted Woman by Eric Jerome Dickey
Good book. It's about a woman assassin going by the name MX-401. She can become anyone, anywhere in a hot minute. Just started back reading Dickey books. Last books I read by him were the Gideon series. OMG, best series. Must read.
Barbara Walker
Natchez Burning by Greg Iles
Great book and story long time coming. But I think it could have ended way before 788 pages. Looking forward to the next book in the series.
Bev Uebel
Six Years by Harlan Coben
He never fails to keep me on the edge of my seat! Love this author and thoroughly enjoyed this book.
Lynn W
Chestnut Street by Maeve Binchy
Binchy wrote with humor and understanding of the imperfect people living on Dublin's Chestnut Street. This book renewed my sadness that there will be no more heart-warming stories from one of my favorite authors.
Patricia Pascale
The Matchmaker by Elin Hilderbrand
Another lovely read about second chances and re-discovering love again. Nantucket is the backdrop for this sweet story of Dabney and Clen finding themselves after 27 years apart. Ms. Hilderbrand knows how to tell a story. I read this page to page in one day and thought about the plot for several days after. Easy 5 stars. I can't wait until her next book comes out.
Mary Rodriguez
Cover Story by Erika Chase
Another good book in the series about the local book club members that solve murder mysteries in the small town of Ashton Corners.
Bonnie Gluhanich
The Death of Santini by Pat Conroy
This memoir of a family gets you in the gut and never lets go. Conroy's family puts dysfunctional on a whole new level and his dad, Don, a.k.a "Santini", is arguably the most dysfunctional dad in America. This book lays it all out and comes to terms with Conroy's family life.
Susan Kellett
Many Lives, Many Masters by Brian L. Weiss
Read this book for a book group. Interesting discussion about reincarnation. Thought-provoking.
Nancy Hausladen
In The Dark by Brian Freeman
This is the second book in a series about a detective in Duluth, MN. I am reading my way though them. This series was recommended to me by two friends, so I hoped it would be good, and it is. They books are especially good if you are from Minnesota because you will know the area. Even if you are not, they are excellent reading.
Jan King
Keep Quiet by Lisa Scottoline
This is one of those stories that will stay with you forever, especially if you have children! I read it in one day! Could not put it down. The characters are so believable; I put myself in the shoes of the mother in this story! READ IT!!
Carol Weigel
The Cuckoo's Calling by Robert Galbraith
J. K. Rowling's easy to read prose is evident in this adult book. She easily makes one sympathetic to the main character. Not a brilliant mystery, just a fun read.
Wendy Hampton
Deadly Heat by Richard Castle
I love the continuation of Castle since the series is off for the summer. I see the characters vividly because I like the people playing Heat and Castle (Rook). Fun read as Heat and Castle compete to find the bad guy.
Joan Chance
The Girl You Left Behind by JoJo Moyes
Once begun, I could not put it down. I read mostly before bed and fall asleep quickly, but this one kept my attention and kept me reading. Great characters...historically interesting...very satisfying.
Betty Chrastka
A German Requiem by Philip Kerr
Third in a series of noir detective set in post World War II Germany. Dark and vivid.
Florence Cohen
The Skin Collector by Jeffrey Deaver
Excellent, excellent book. Exciting from start to finish. Deaver never fails to satisfy what it means to write a good book. Highly recommend it.
Christine Anderson
The Storied Life of A.J.Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin
An interesting browse through much literature as the story unfolds. One needs to learn to like Fikry, the main character, but his actions guide you to a great feeling about this grieving man. I really loved reading this book and became interested in the books mentioned that I have not read.
Dee Wright
All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr
A wonderfully rich look at World War II from the perspective of a German boy and French girl. This book will stay with you long after you have finished it.
Kathy Iwasaka
Identical by Scott Turow
Intriguing read with more twists and turns than I could keep count of. It seems to be going in one direction and then, bang, it's off in another. With good writing and lots of different side stories to keep up with, this is a thrill-a-minute that will keep you up late.
Lou Ann Westmoreland
The Whole Enchilada by Diane Mott Davidson
Great book in the Goldy Schulz series. Diane manages to entice the reader with her recipes and enthrall with the plot. I have read every book in the series, and I love them!
Becky Haase
Ruth's Journey: The Authorized Novel of Mammy from Margaret Mitchell's Gone With the WindSTORY OF MAMMY FROM GONE WITH THE WIND by Donald McCaig
Though the book is related by Ruth (Mammy), the story is really Solange and Miss Ellen’s story. Solange is Scarlett’s grandmother. Solange is a French heiress who is married off to a second son with prospects in sugar. She arrives in Haiti to find the sugar plantation in disarray and the second son a poor manager. Ruth is an orphan that Solange appropriates for herself. The book is well written and follows a pre-ordained curve to introduce us to Scarlett and attempts to give us a back story for why Scarlett is who she is. Actual events and people give a feeling of reality to the novel that is a bit too long. Too much of the book deals with Solange. If you are looking for a novel of pre-Civil War manners, you will be happy.
Jan Zahrly
The Killer Inside Me by Jim Thompson
This mystery novel is over 60 years old and is still awesome. Thompson gives us a nice guy, a deputy sheriff, who can lie while smiling and convince others that his lies are true. The complex novel is gripping because the lead character continues to tell himself that there is a fatal flaw in his actions and gives us many clues. It is only in the last two pages that the reader understands the full nature of the crimes and how the guilty man is trapped.
Judson Hanson
Code White by Scott Britz-Cunningham
What starts out as a historic day for Dr. Ali O'Day changes to one of terror as her soon-to-be ex uses his computer expertise to create "Odin," an artificial intelligence residing in the hospital lab. Odin is like no other computer in the world, and Kevin has used him to hold the hospital ransom in revenge for Ali leaving him. His plan goes awry, however, when Odin starts making decisions on his own and setting off explosives, killing several cops and hospital staff. Kevin is arrested but is shot by hospital security while trying to escape. The only hope now is for Ali to convince Odin that Kevin was going to release everyone. If she succeeds, everyone survives; if not, the death toll will rival that of 9/11.
Virginia King
The Fault In Our Stars by John Green
'The Fault In Our Stars' is humor filled with little bursts of tragedy. Any ordinary person would think this is another tragic book about a 16-year-old girl with terminal cancer fighting her battle. But when reading you find out that the battle is more so against the charming Augustus Waters. Hazel Grace Lancaster sees herself as a grenade that can destroy everyone and everything in a matter of a few seconds. Hazel's battle against Augustus is soon lost when they are visiting Peter Van Houten in Amsterdam, but they always say; "lose the battle, win the war". Unfortunately the war is also lost, but that's the thing about pain - it demands to be felt.
Judson Hanson
The Storm by Clive Cussler
A NUMA crew mysteriously disappears while investigating strange temperature fluctuations in the Indian Ocean. The last thing they see is a mysterious black mass covering the water. Kurt Austin is given the task of retrieving the ship from local authorities who found it adrift. An examination of the evidence suggests that the crew deliberately set the craft on fire, but it isn't clear as to why. Austin will ultimately discover that forces are at work to alter weather through the use of microscopic machines, capable of reproducing on their own. Austin begins a desperate search for the mastermind behind these machines, before he uses them to hold the entire world hostage.
Judson Hanson
Clovenhoof by Heide Goody and Iain Grant
St. Peter decides that Satan isn't meeting his performance goals and fires him. He is sent to Earth for his retirement and given the name Jeremy Clovenhoof. Adjusting to life on Earth is difficult, what with learning what is and isn't appropriate behavior. Meanwhile, Heaven is in chaos. There isn't enough room for all the souls being admitted. Due to a specific verse of scripture, the size of Heaven is finite. This means that either God must countermand scripture or the criteria for admission to Heaven must be tightened. When Clovenhoof finds out from two Recording Angels what is going on, he seeks a way to return to Heaven to help Joan of Arc resolve the problem before things get worse. If you like satire, this book is for you.
Linda Harrison
The Cursed by Heather Graham
Hannah O’Brien operates a B&B in Key West, which has resident ghosts that Hannah is able to see and converse with. When a man is found murdered in the alley behind the house, the FBI is called in along with local police. The dead man was undercover FBI investigating a gang known as Los Lobos. Hannan’s cousin Kelsey O’Brien is with the FBI’s Krewe group known as “ghostbusters”. Kelsey and her husband Logan Raintree, also with the FBI, have come to Key West to help with the investigations. The head of Los Lobos is known as the wolf, and he is determined that a priceless treasure is hidden somewhere in the B&B and will stop at nothing to get it.
Linda Harrison
North to Alaska by Debbie Macomber
The book contains two stories taking place in Alaska that have been reissued. The first is THAT WINTRY FEELING and is about a young woman who fled to Alaska to get over a broken heart. When she was offered a marriage proposal she accepted, but was it another way of not facing the truth? The second story is BORROWED DREAMS and is about a girl raised in foster care, always having to settle for second best and hand-me-downs. When she met and fell in love with a man, she found that he was a widower and had children. She didn’t want a man or children that had belonged to someone else but came to realize that their new family would center around her. Great stories.
Linda Harrison
Up in Flames by Lori Foster
There are two stories in this book. The first is BODY HEAT in which two people fell off a boat and were stranded on an island for several days. The second is CAUGHT IN THE ACT in which a novelist really gets into the plots of her books. When she is almost shot during a robbery, the police are wondering if this was a plot for one of her books.
Linda Harrison
Night Diver by Elizabeth Lowell
Kate Donnelly swore to never dive again since the horrible night she lost her parents to the raging sea. But she is once again back in St. Vincent to help her brother out. Trying to salvage treasure from a sunken vessel, the divers are not finding anything much of value. Then it appears that one of the divers is diving alone at night and hiding some of the treasure.
Linda Harrison
The Handmaiden's Necklace by Kat Martin
This was a very good book and deserves more than 5 stars. It is the enchanting love story of Danielle Duval and Rafael, the Duke of Sheffield. Due to vicious rumors set in place by a man spurned by Danielle, the engagement between her and Rafael was ended and she left London. Five years later, she is back and Rafael still loves her even though he doesn’t admit it. He goes to her but learns that she has left for America to marry another man. He can’t let her go so he goes after her. They marry and return to England but someone is trying to kill them. Who is the target—Rafael or Dani?
Elaine Baxter
The Vanishing by Wendy Webb
I loved it - started to read and could not put down. Finished it in a day and a half. Twisting, turning plot and will scare the Beelzebub out of you. Don't let a night pass without reading.
Melissa Borsey
Missing You by Harlan Coben
Loved this book! As is ususl with his style of writing, you are sucked in from the first page and you can't put it down. Great story, great characters and a great ending! Highly recommend!
Linda Johnson
Glitter and Glue by Kelly Corrigan
Easy to listen to on road trip to Michigan. Recounts author's time after college when she traveled to Australia and found a job as a nanny to a family with a widower father and two young children, plus an older half-brother and the children's grandfather. Full of mots of wisdom from her mother. Corrigan is beginning to understand her mother truly is wise. Narrated by the author.
Debbie Maskus
Murder in Murray Hill by Victoria Thompson
The Gaslight series by Victoria Thompson shows New York at the turn of the century and the contrast between the rich and the poor. In this mystery, a young, unmarried woman disappears and her father wants to find her. The case involves the "lonely hearts" advertising in the newspaper, and what can happen. Mallory no longer needs to work as a policeman, due to a beneficial twist of fate, but he continues to aid the police department as a private investigator. Mallory and Susan are planning to marry and combine their families into one group. Thompson does an excellent job in depicting both the good and the bad characters. I missed having Susan's mother involved in the story, but not all the characters can appear in every book.
susan gannon
Shifting Love by Constance O'Day-Flannery
I was totally enchanted with an extremely good story and felt peaceful.
Jan Bodnar
Under the Wide and Starry Sky by Nancy Horan
Fascinating historical account of the life of Fanny Stevenson and her husband, Robert Louis Stevenson.
Fran OH
The Terror by Dan Simmons
When I read a 955 page book, I expect to be riveted to it. Unfortunately, this one fell short. Almost gave up on it a few times, but did hang in till the end. Too much detail, and the plot just moved too slowly at times. Also, I kept getting mad because every time I'd just start to relate to a character or really get invested in them, they'd die.
Karen Peterson
The Good Lord Bird by James McBride
An amazing book that kept me interested until the very end. James Brown was quite the colorful character, and McBride made his character jump off the pages. What's nice about historical fiction is the additional research you can perform on your own to learn more about the characters and time period in which the book is set.
Karen Peterson
The Invention of Wings by Sue Monk Kidd
I read this book after I read James McBride's Good Lord Bird. Quite a follow up to read in McBride's book about John Brown, the notorious abolitionist, then to read about the Grimke sisters, notorious female abolitionists. How brave of these two women to crusade for not only the abolition of slavery but the equality of the slaves once emancipated. And, to throw in women's rights as well! I admired their passion for such an inflammatory cause.
Marsha
Robert B. Parker's Damned If You Do by Michael Brandman
Jesse Stone is a small town police chief and does things in an unorthodox manner. She is looking into the death of a young girl and also the happenings in the local assisted living facility. Brandman's characterization is spot on, and we feel we understand these people -- the good, the bad and the ugly.
Judy O.
Iron Lake by William Kent Krueger
This is the first book in Krueger's Cork O'Conner series. Cork is an ex-sheriff, who still seems to be very active in the business of solving crimes. This one takes place on Iron Lake in upper Minnesota. Cork is trying to find a young boy who has disappeared and ends up finding a whole bunch of corrupted citizens in the town of Aurora. It got very complicated at the end.
Vera wiilson
Candlelight Christmas by Susan Wiggs
Both Logan and Darcy had been married before. Although they seemed to like each other when first meeting, so many ideas they each had were not the same. As the story goes on, love does find a way to conquer the differences. Great read. So many books now seem to use "too strong lauguage", but Susan Wiggs is a great author that can keep your interest in the book without this.
Would recommend to others. Looking forward to reading more book by her.
Bonnie Gluhanich
The Invention of Wings by Sue Monk Kidd
Beautifully told novel told in alternate voices of a slave girl and her "owner". Based on real people, it's a fictionalized account of the stirrings of Abolitionism in our country.
Peggy S
Natchez Burning by Greg Iles
EXCELLENT. A well-written book of 782 pages that just keeps you reading.
Oswaldo Reyes
Prince of Fire by Daniel Silva
I just finished reading PRINCE OF FIRE by Daniel Silva. This book is one of the books in the Gabriel Allon series.This is one of those stories in which you can't put the book down once you start reading. It keeps you wanting to know what's going to happen next. This series is one of the best I've ever read. I love this series.
Victoria Trinske
Sure Signs of Crazy by Karen Harrington
Fiction pulled from the headlines. A 12- year-old girl's amazing and heart-wrenching summer with overtones of her mother's mental illness and father's alcohol addiction. Sarah is spunky, smart and loves Atticus in To Kill a Mockingbird. Genre is 7-14 year.old/ YA, but appeals to older teens and adults.
Victoria Trinske
The Farm by Tom Rob Smith
Author of CHILD 44, but this book is not part of trilogy. A real page-turner mystery with beautiful descriptions of rural Sweden in winter, and even more interesting is the somewhat autobiographical nature of the novel.
Linda Johnson
On Heaven and Earth: Pope Francis on Faith, Family, and the Church in the Twenty-First Century by Jorge Mario Bergoglio
This book was written before he was Pope Francis I. It is a dialogue between him and a Argentinian Rabbi comparing their respective faiths. Interesting.
Sandra Canales
Mr. Mercedes by Stephen King
Scary and awesome book!!! Hail to the King!! Read it. Read it.
Jan Hummel
The Soldier's Wife by Margaret Leroy
All I can say is wow. This book had me mesmerized from start to finish. Her beautiful writing made me feel like I was almost reading a fairy tale. I was transported to Guernsey and felt what the islanders felt during this story - fear, suspense, uncertainty and love. This will be one of my favorite books.
Vivian Taylor
The Patron Saint of Ugly by Marie Manilla
This is fast-paced read that is just as funny as it is sad. A touching look at the effects of prejudice, fear, and ignorance of someone that looks a little different. Ms. Manilla deftly weaves in cultural traditions, folklore, and legends into this tale of the life of one girl and her family in the fictional town of Sweetwater, West Virginia. I enjoyed reading this book so much I've recommended it to one of my book groups, and it is now slated to be our July read.
Francisca E B
Dear Family by Camilla Bittle
Opening line: "In the desperate days of the Depression there was one constant that most people could count on – family." The novel tells the story of one family’s survival from 1935 to 1945. The situations and reactions of the characters are understandable and relatable. They struggle with moral decisions, guilt, grief, and deprivation, and support one another through tragedies. But they also celebrate small victories and find strength in loving relationships.
Marsha
The Rabbit Factory by Marshall Karp
Two wise-cracking cops make a great partnership as they try to unravel the murders taking place in Familyland theme park (think Disney). Someone has a vendetta worth killing for, and it soon becomes evident that they are trying to destroy the Familyland empire. It is a fast-paced quick read of over 600 pages, but there are plenty of chuckles along the way. This is the first of several books featuring LAPD Detectives Mike Lomax and Terry Biggs, and I am looking forward to reading more about them.
Ali McDonnell
Winter Garden by Kristin Hannah
This book came highly recommended by a friend with similar reading interests. I was disappointed in the characterizations in the book. I thought they were shallow and self-centered and not well developed over a good part of the book. The story within the story of the Leningrad takeover was very good and interesting and could have been a stand alone book. The author wrapped everything up way too neatly to my liking. It wasn't the caliber read that I am used to, and I think it is more chic lit than literature.
Betty Ramsey
Any Other Name by Craig Johnson
Our Wyoming sheriff, Walt Longmire, has been called to another county to help solve the case of a missing woman. While going through the records and other information, he learns that two other women have gone missing also and suspects there is a connection. The lead on the case has committed suicide which adds to the mystery. Longmire has only a few days to solve this case as his daughter is about to deliver her baby and his presence is mandatory! This is the 10th or 11th book in the Longmire series, and they are all very good. I love the TV program, also.
Susan Kolodny
Where'd You Go, Bernadette? by Maria Semple
This hilarious novel unfolds through letters, emails, FBI documents, bills, etc. Semple's quirky characters' outrageous behavior makes for a page-turner. The main character, Bee, an elementary school student, tests off the charts and grabs the reader's heart. A wonderful, light-hearted read for the summer, and a great book for a book club discussion!
Debbie Smith
Dark Places by Gillian Flynn
This book was fast paced, albeit a "dark" story. It's about a young girl who testified against her brother in court as a witness to his murdering their mother and two sisters. She was living off income from the tragedy. However that source of income was coming to an end. She got involved with a Kill Club, who believed the brother was innocent and paid her to, in essence, investigate the murder. Many twists and turns and a surprising ending. A good read.
Jane Squires
An Amish Garden by Beth Wiseman, Kathleen Fuller, Tricia Goyer & Vannetta Chapman
Written by four authors - four stories. I love and have read all four authors and reviewed books for all of them. All stories involve gardens. Each has a different message. In Rooted in Love, I felt love was endured until it was time for God's plan. In Flowers for Rachel, Rachel had a hard time accepting help. Gideon had a hard time expressing himself as a lot of men do around women. Seeds of Love is about giving to others, even if different from you, and the giving will return to you. In When Healing Blooms, there is lots of healing to be done. Grief, women and kids needing a safe place, a runaway boy, and a ministry started. Each book could have a special review, but I'm trying to cover all.
Michelle Brown
The One (Book 3 of The Selection Trilogy) by Kiera Cass
Love this whole series! A little dystopian, a little romance (with a prince!), a little drama, a little action. This series has it all! Has a sort of "The Bachelor" (the reality TV show -- which I don't even watch!) theme. Fun, pretty quick YA read. Easy to lose yourself in for a few minutes, or hours!
Jan Zahrly
The House at Sea's End by Elly Griffiths
This is the same old Ruth Galloway stuff - decoding messages, working with the bones of the dead, helping law enforcement... and it is wonderful! We know that Ruth will solve the murders, her child will grow and flourish and Ruth will feel guilty about working, but how else is she to support herself and her child? As usual, people from Ruth's past appear, and the father of her child is around often. This is one of a series. If you love good mysteries, start at the beginning, The Crossing Places. This novel is about events during World War II, at an area on the Norfolk, England coast. Griffiths wins awards and gets better with each book!
Catherine (Cat) A Menz
The Wheel of Time Series by Robert Jordan
It starts out a little slow, but once it gets going it doesn't stop till the end! My husband and I both loved it! Every time the next book came out we would start the series over again to make sure we didn't forget anything before reading the newest book - it was that good!
Marcia Sailer
City of Women by David R. Gillham
This story of a woman married to an SS soldier in Germany during WWII has several twists. Sigirid seems to be a hard-working, devoted wife on the surface. Not is all as it seems. She mourns the disappearance of the Jewish man she's had an affair with. Her mother-in-law and the rigid rules of the Reich make her life difficult. Befriending Ericha, a woman aiding the Jewish to find hiding places and to escape, adds another dimension to this novel. Although Sigrid seems to be easily lead, she finds strength throughout the story. Interesting read.
Joanne McIntyre
I Always Loved You by Robin Oliveira
A beautiful story about two people who made beautiful art, and all the peripheral "renegade" artists of the Belle Epoch in Paris. A perfect blending of truth and fiction, with the line blurred in a good way so that the story seems true in its entirety.
Kathy Vallee
Better Read Than Dead by Victoria Laurie
Such a fantastic book. She is a psychic and a true one. Her boyfriend is a FBI agent, and all of a sudden she is in the sights of a serial killer.
Nancy Van de Motter
Above by Isla Morley
A surprisingly wonderful thriller that took unexpected twists as abducted mom and son finally escaped to the "above" world. Wonderful writing.
tawnya
Point of Direction by Rachel Weaver
Great writing about Alaska. A couple alone at a lighthouse for months leads to exploration of each others' secrets. As the story continues, the tension and danger rises. Good psychological thriller.
Marsha
Flipping Out by Marshall Karp
The team of LAPD homicide detectives Lomax and Briggs are caught up in an investigation that is searching for a killer of cops' wives. They are part of a group of women who buy homes, fix them up and flip them. Hence the title. It's a good, fast-paced read, and you will want to read more about these wise-cracking cops.
Jacquelyn Lane
Beautiful Ink by Nicole Reed
The first chapter was difficult, but after that I loved every page of it. This is a new genre for me, but one I will continue to read.
Sandy McCullough
The Time in Between by Maria Duenas and Daniel Hahn
This is a great historical novel and I really like it a lot. It was quite long though, and I thought I would never get to the end, but I am glad I stuck with it.
Sandy McCullough
The Aviator's Wife by Melanie Benjamin
For much of her life, Anne Morrow, the shy daughter of the U.S. ambassador to Mexico, has stood in the shadows of those around her, including her millionaire father and vibrant older sister, who often steals the spotlight. Then Anne, a college senior with hidden literary aspirations, travels to Mexico City to spend Christmas with her family. There she meets Colonel Charles Lindbergh, fresh off his celebrated 1927 solo flight across the Atlantic. Enthralled by Charles's assurance and fame, Anne is certain the celebrated aviator has scarcely noticed her. But she is wrong. This was one of the best books I have read in a long time.
Linda Reck
Elizabeth Is Missing by Emma Healey
Elizabeth is Missing is a deeply engrossing debut novel, a sophisticated psychological mystery of a woman sliding into dementia. Maud is convinced her friend Elizabeth is missing, but no one will listen to her. Her search will go back decades and have shattering consequences. Much more complicated though is the enduring mystery of what happened to her sister Sukie fifty years ago. Dementia can't keep Maud from trying to find her missing friend, but she's easily confused and talks about Elizabeth when she means Sukie. Maud confuses the present and the past. Will Maud's memories help her find Elizabeth? Can she uncover the truth in Sukey's disappearance? The book is a beautifully moving page-turner.
Nikki Youngren
Ordinary Grace by William Kent Krueger
I picked this book up based on all the reviews I have read about it on "Word of Mouth", and I am not sorry that I did. I love books that are about family life and the way real people deal with different life and death experiences. This book is exactly that kind of story but also written so well that you never want it to end. The mind of a teenage boy is a strange thing, and the author does a great job helping you to understand the way it works. If you are on the fence about reading this book, I say do it because you won't be disappointed.
Sandy McCullough
Mary Coin by Marisa Silver
In 1936, a young mother resting by the side of a road in Central California is spontaneously photographed by a woman documenting the migrant laborers who have taken to America’s farms in search of work. Little personal information is exchanged, and neither woman has any way of knowing that they have produced what will become the most iconic image of the Great Depression.
Gil Harris
The Redbreast by Jo Nesbo and John Bartlett
An intriguing story involving a very likable detective, Harry Hole. It takes place in Oslo, Norway where Harry discovers that a high powered Marklin rifle is illegally obtained and has been used primarily as an assassin's tool. Harry has to determine who has the rifle and who the potential victim might be. The story takes place in 2000, but has its roots in World War II. Lots of surprises. An enjoyable read.
Sandy McCullough
Flight Behavior by Barbara Kingsolver
Dellarobia Turnbow is a restless farm wife who gave up her own plans when she accidentally became pregnant at seventeen. Now, after a decade of domestic disharmony on a failing farm, she has settled for permanent disappointment but seeks momentary escape through an obsessive flirtation with a younger man. As she hikes up a mountain road behind her house to a secret tryst, she encounters a shocking sight - a silent, forested valley filled with what looks like a lake of fire. She can only understand it as a cautionary miracle, but it sparks a raft of other explanations from scientists, religious leaders, and the media. I enjoyed this book very much and learned a lot about the plight of the monarch butterfly.
Jeanie Deem
The Essay by Robin Yocum
A "feel good" story that is very uplifting. A great read for anyone who has ever been involved with education. Any teacher, past or present, could put names on the characters. We would wish all our students could have the same ending in their "stories".
Crystal Blackburn
Vertigo 42: A Richard Jury Mystery by Martha Grimes
The latest Richard Jury mystery is complex and interesting, and every bit as good as the previous stories.
shelly itkin
Patches & Buttons by Jennifer Link
Younger children might be afraid of noises and this book might be able to help them. Patches, a dog, and Buttons, a bunny, live in the same house. Buttons seems to be afraid of almost all the noises in the house from Patches barking to the vacuum cleaner running and even the water in the bathtub. Buttons feels safest in his cage and wants nothing more to do but go into it and hide. Patches, the dog, wants to play and even brings him a toy to play with. The pictures are large and colorful, and the wording is easy for a young child to understand. I think this will be a help for some children to read who get scared easily.
Elaine Baxter
Unwanted by Kristina Ohlsson
If you like the authors that are coming out of Sweden, you will love Kristina Ohlsson. She is on par with Jo Nesbo. This is a book you cannot put down once you start reading. The subject matter is a little to close to home, but it is worth the read. Do yourself a favor and pick up this book today.
Becky Haase
Summer House with Swimming Pool by Herman Koch
I made it through 100 pages of this book before deciding I didn’t like any of the characters and I truly didn’t care if Ralph was murdered or it was just a horrible mistake. Marc, the doctor who made the mistake or committed the murder, was an especially unlikeable person. He was selfish and narcissistic to the extreme. Ralph wasn’t much better. They were both lecherous towards the others' wife within minutes of meeting (apparently not an unusual happening).
There was supposed to be humor somewhere in this book, but it hadn’t occurred by page 100 (out of 385). Marc didn’t like camping, and I didn’t like Marc so I guess we are even. Skip this one.
2 of 5 stars
Oswaldo Reyes
The Bourne Identity by Robert Ludlum
The Bourne Identity is one of the greatest thrillers ever written. This book is the book that started the whole Jason Bourne series. This book is full of surprises.
Tessa B C
Four and Twenty Blackbirds by Cherie Priest
3.5*** This is a dark fantasy and a Southern gothic mystery. Totally not my usual reading fare, but I have to say I was captivated by the story and it held my attention. Some of the plot twists seemed too far-fetched. I did like that, for the most part, Eden gets herself out of any jam she gets into. She’s strong, intelligent, resourceful, and determined. For a genre of which I am not a fan, this was a pretty good read.
Lynn W
Solsbury Hill by Susan M. Wyler
Eleanor Abbot, twenty-seven year old New Yorker, gets called to England as her aunt is dying. There she learns that she inherits the estate and shares connections with Emily Bronte. First novel from this writer. Beginning chapters were a little rough, but once past them, enjoyed the story.
Hedi Hopwood
Those Who Wish Me Dead by Michael Koryta
Keeps you interested all the way through. Was actually very surprised with one of the twists! I usually can figure what is coming as I read quite a bit; this was a great ride. Finished in two days.
Sandra Furlotte
Rose Wood by Sharon Mikeworth
This is a first novel and suffers from many of the problems that first books share. However, the plot is quite gripping and the end is strong.
Elizabeth Bevins
The Last Policeman by Ben Winters
Great noir mystery set in a pre-apocalyptic time.
Sandy McCullough
Victim by Greg Sigley
This is a very short book and very easy to read. I prefer longer books with a little more meat to them. I think it is more a young adult book as it deals with bullying.
