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October 17, 2014 - October 31, 2014

This contest period's winners were Courtney H., Jan Z., Jane K., Julie S. and Marleen D., who each received a copy of THE BOOK OF STRANGE NEW THINGS by Michel Faber, GRAY MOUNTAIN by John Grisham, and WINTER STREET by Elin Hilderbrand.

 

Kathy McCormick
The Wives of Los Alamos by TaraShea Nesbit

3
I absolutely love New Mexico! The history of making of the atomic bomb from the wives' point of view - bad housing, little to no water, dust, children, friendships, secrecy...it was fascinating. I did not like that the book read like a conglomeration of diaries. The book was interesting, but not my favorite.

Elizabeth
One Plus One by Jojo Moyes

4
I have a love-hate relationship with Ms. Moyes' books. I think ME BEFORE YOU and THE GIRL YOU LEFT BEHIND were some of the best books I have read. Then I read everything else and I hate to say it but was I not thrilled with any of them. That all changed with this book. This story has heart and great characterization. I even fell in love with the big stinky dog. Anyone who has taken a road trip with the family will relate and laugh their way through the tale. The mother in the book, Jess, has so much optimism it is contagious. The real star of the show is Tanzie, a very spunky and smart little girl. This will make you cheer for the family and hope for once they get a break. This is Jojo Moyes at her best!

Fran OH
Mosaic by Soheir Khashoggi

4
This was an interesting, heartbreaking novel that depicts a cultural rift that tears apart a family. When Dina comes home from work one day, she finds her husband and six year old twins gone. Her husband, Karim, has taken his family to his homeland of Jordan. With no assistance from the US government, Dina sets out on a mission to bring her children home. Beautifully written with realistic and plausible themes, this author did a fantastic job of pulling in the reader and taking them along on a journey to Jordan. I would recommend this book to all.

Rhonda
Saving Grace by Jane Green

5
A haunting chilling novel. A woman hired as an assistant to a famous author who has a beautiful wife she slowly begins to infiltrate and destroy their marriage. Couldn't put it down,

Mona Garg
Reconstructing Amelia by Kimberly McCreight

4
Single mom and attorney Kate Baron is in an important meeting at work when she receives an urgent phone call from her daughter's exclusive private school. She is stunned to hear that Amelia has been caught cheating. Amelia has always been a good student and has never been in trouble. When she arrives at Grace Hall, she learns the situation is much worse. Amelia is dead from an apparent suicide. Grief-stricken and incredulous, Kate sets out to investigate the events leading to Amelia's death. The story is told from the alternating perspectives of Kate and Amelia, and the timeline shifts from the past to the present. Overall, it was a very impressive debut. The plot had unpredictable twists and turns. I couldn't wait to find out what happened

Heather
The Racketeer by John Grisham

5
Ahhh... this is the Grisham we love!

Saundra McKenzie
Still Foolin' 'Em: Where I've Been, Where I'm Going, and Where the Hell Are My Keys? by Billy Crystal

4
First book I've read that did more than just make me smile. It made me giggle and laugh out loud! Priceless. A laugh on every page. Very observant about life, and the stories were great. I would recommend this book.

marleen davis
The Drop by Dennis Lehane

3
My favorite author let me down on this. He wrote a screenplay in book form. I'm sure it has been made into a fine movie but it's not a great novel. It is no MYSTIC RIVER or his best THE GIVEN DAY (a masterpiece in my estimation). I liked the characters and the premise, but somehow it didn't relate to the page. There is underlying violence that didn't really come across on the page, but I'm sure it will on film. There is a lot of sadness and hopelessness of the characters because of the dark sides that are portrayed. He didn't fail - he just didn't succeed like I expect of this usually A+ novelist.

mary sue skelton
The Elegance of the Hedgehog by Muriel Barbery

5
I loved this book! It has been on my bookshelf for several years and I've always meant to dig into it. The main character is a 12-year-old girl living in a Paris hotel. She sees herself as super intelligent and has plans to commit suicide eventually as life is heavy and ridiculous to her. Through her contacts with the people, who also live in the hotel, her life is ultimately changed. The writing is beautiful, and I believe it could be a perfect choice for a book made into a movie.

myrna lippman
The Secret Place by Tana French

5
Not only does French create a morally disturbing crime, but she also gives us detectives with complex personalities and quirks. All her books have this same quality.

Teresa Salvatore
Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel

5
A scarily relevant apocalyptic story about a pandemic flu that utterly decimates the world. This story is engaging, thrilling and beautifully written. Mandel weaves a fantastic story! With multiple points of view we are transported back and forth between characters and time periods with seamless precision.

Bridget
Edge of Eternity by Ken Follett

5
Of The Century Trilogy, I feel this was the best. (It's definitely my favorite.) Several stories of the 60s entwine the main characters. The stories are told in such a compelling way I hated to have to put this hefty book down!

Bridget
South of Superior by Ellen Airgood

3
Sad novel about a woman who goes to a dying town near Lake Superior to take care for and connect with distant family members she never knew. Lots of characters have baggage they have to work through.

Laurie n. Blum
The Wonder of All Things by Jason Mott

3
Main character Ava, a young girl known as the "miracle child", has an extraordinary gift - she is able to "heal" physical ailments. Beautifully written, although not exactly my taste in a family saga.

Carol Lauterbur
Best To Laugh by Lorna Landvik

4
Sweet and funny story about a Korean/American girl who lost her parents early in life and lived with her loving, supportive grandmother. She wants to be a writer and a comic, and makes her way to Hollywood to sublet her cousin's apartment in an old apartment building that houses an eclectic group of characters who live or lived on the fringes of the movie business. This is a tender, laugh out loud story with likable characters who touch Candy's life in many different ways.

Linda Smith
All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr

3
Although I relished the eloquent wording of the prose in this book, I found that it rambled on far too much for my taste. Maybe I'm just exhausted from reading too many WWII stories in the past few years, but the time jumps got tedious to follow, and I wanted so much more than I felt I got from devoting two weeks to reading this 539 page book.

Phyllis Sinclair
Power Play by Catherine Coulter

4
Didn't care for having Blessing back in the story. Had enough of him in the last book.

Dianne Mongelli
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

5
Engrossing story with memorable characters.

Stacey K
The Story of Land and Sea by Katy Simpson Smith

3
I liked this book but didn't love it. It has a very non-climactic ending that doesn't really give any satisfaction and wrap up to the ongoing stories. However, the stories of the different characters were well told throughout the main part of the book. Wouldn't read again.

Debbie Brisbin
The Oracle Glass by Judith Merkle Riley

4
Very intriguing. A historical novel of 17th century France. Mystical yet apparently based on a real-life period of time known as the Affaire des Poisons. It blends reality with mysticism. Blending historical figures and fictional figures can be tricky sometimes, but Riley pulls it off wonderfully. I am usually not a fan of occult-type genres, but this one really held my interest.

Bonnie Leveille
A Life Intercepted by Charles Martin

5
As usual, this is a powerful book by Charles Martin. I have read all of his books and they just keep getting better. As in all of his books, he grabs a gripping tragic situation and turns it into a gut wrenching powerful journey to a positive resolution. Although this is about a famous football player and is full of football verbiage, no woman will be turned off as it is part of the deep and moving plot and meaning of the story. The characters are fascinating, the story never slows down and the ending does not disappoint.

Dennis Beierbach
Gray Mountain by John Grisham

5
Another big hit book for Mr. Grisham.

Colin Beierbach
Gray Mountain by John Grisham

5
I couldn't wait for it to come out as an audiobook, my preferred format.

Gloria Fabijanic
The Girls of August by Anne Rivers Siddons

3
It was a good book, good character development but a little short. Wish she had added an epilogue so we would have known where the characters were a year later.

Sherrie English
The Shadow of the Wind by Carol Ruiz Zafon

5
Smooth and enticing prose from the first page on.

Mary Sisserson
The Husband's Secret by Liane Moriarty

4
The plot for this book was good. However, at times the writing seemed not quite polished. I enjoyed the frequent referral to The Berlin Wall, which caused me to further research this topic. The many emotions portrayed will leave your head spinning. Be aware that there is more than one secret in this book!

Dorothy Boyum
Waiting to Believe by Sandra Kjarstad Bloom

3
I enjoyed reading this book, but felt that I could predict the ending soon after starting the book. However, it did keep my attention and I think the author described all the characters and developed their personalities very well.

Mary Ann Blanton
Written in My Own Heart's Blood by Diana Gabaldon

4
Now I have to wait forever for the next installment.

Marian Collins
Mean Streak by Sandra Brown

4
I enjoyed this book. It had a lot of twists and turns and a very surprising ending!

Trude Vandine
Truth Be Told by Hank Phillippi Ryan

5
The 3rd in the Jane Ryland/Jake Brogan series, and they keep getting better. Ms. Ryan puts the reader in the middle of the action for a non-stop ride.

Judy
Allie Finkle's Rules for Girls Book 3 by Meg Cabot

5
I always read books before I give them to my granddaughter to make sure they are age-appropriate. This book was a delight to read, reminding me that kids have real problems too. The character is only one year older than my Leah, and I totally loved the story. It is now wrapped and put away for Christmas.

Rochelle Stempler
Truth Be Told by Hank Phillippi Ryan

4
Third book in Jane Ryland series. Have enjoyed all three.

Becky Haase
Ladies' Night by Mary Kay Andrews

4
One of my favorite “light read” authors has written a fun take on divorce and retribution with a smattering of romance. You will laugh at the antics of wronged women compelled by a sadistic judge to attend “divorce recovery” sessions with a well meaning but slightly loopy therapist. When one of the attendees turns out to a “wronged man” instead of a woman, you know you will have a few laughs at his expense. The characters are clearly drawn, if perhaps overdone, and the “mystery” is solved with the perpetrators brought to justice. The situations are believable and hilarious. Altogether this is a pleasant way to spend a few hours.

Peggy Niles
The Elephant Whisperer by Lawrence Anthony

5
This non-fiction account of life on an African reserve and a family of rouge elephants reads like fiction. Fascinating!

Linda Reck
Some Luck by Jane Smiley

4
SOME LUCK is an engaging first book of a trilogy spanning three decades. Each chapter covers one year in the life of the Iowa farm family, the Langdon's beginning in 1920 and ending in 1959. Rosanna and Walter Langdon live on a farm. They strive to raise their five children with the values they feel are most important. The Langdons spread out across America, their personal stories highlighting the effects of history. Smiley makes magic in every day living. The family members' fortunes mirror the fortunes of the nation. Smiley depicts isolated farm life with great precision. It is a very commanding novel.

Janet Nydegger
Mr. Miracle by Debbie Macomber

4
It is a little early to start reading Christmas books, but I knew this book would make me happy. It is a simple story of a male angel sent to earth to help a woman named Addie get her life back together. Even though the book is predictable, it is fun and will give the reader that warm fuzzy feeling. It does not take long to read and it will make you feel good. It made me start looking forward to the holidays, which will be here before we know it.

Rosemary Bednarczyk
The 100-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out of the Window and Disappeared by Jonas Jonasson

5
I've called it historical and hysterical when recommending it to friends. An old man who doesn't want a fuss made about his 100th birthday runs away from an old age home and embarks on a series of adventures with a list of impossible characters, which reflects his entire adult life and occurrences. Or does it? A laugh out loud story! I'm sharing it with my book club next month.

Rebecca Chome
The Storyteller by Jodi Picoult

3
I really love the moral implications and surprises in plot in Jodi's novels, but I felt the ending in THE STORYTELLER was rather predictable. I am planning on reading LEAVING TIME and am hoping for another great read.

Rebecca Chome
The Monogram Murders by Sophie Hannah and Agatha Christie

2
This novel was written in the supposed style of Agatha Christie with Hercule Poirot being presented as the private detective investigating a series of murders at his hotel. His new "partner" is a rookie policeman who learns much from our veteran. I would not go out of my way to read another such book, although I am a big fan of Agatha herself.

Julie towson
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn

5
One of the best mysteries to come along in a long while. I wish I had read the book AFTER seeing the movie. I envied those in the theater who didn't know what was coming next!

Rebecca Chome
The Secret Place by Tana French

3
Tana French's novel is very interesting...a tale of the death of a boy from a private boys' school found on the grounds of a girls' school. Someone wants the killer found and posts a provocative note on the bulletin board provided for sharing secrets.

Betty Chrastka
Smoke Gets in Your Eyes: And Other Lessons from the Crematory by Caitlin Doughty

4
This book is not for the squeamish, but is funny, insightful and full of more information than you've ever wanted to know about the funeral industry.

Maureen Ronan
A Week in Winter by Maeve Binchy

4
Typical Binchy as she weaves all the characters lives together. She will be missed. I will have to reread LIGHT A PENNY CANDLE, my favorite.

Rosemary Sobczcak
Festive in Death by J.D. Robb

5
What's not to like? Great characters, good plot!

Linda Harrison
Happy Never After by Mary Kay Andrews

4
Callahan Garrity, owner of the House Mouse cleaning service, has been asked to locate a missing member of an oldie singing group. During her search for the missing woman, she gets involved in a murder case. And one of her clients is accused of the murder.

Linda Harrison
Christmas Brides by Suzanne Enoch, Alexandra Hawkins, Elizabeth Essex, Valerie Bowman

4
Four short stories centering around the Christmas season. One Hot Scot by Enoch is about a lady escaping from her kidnapper who runs into a Scottish laird who saves her. Once Upon a Christmas Scandal by Hawkins is about a young lady fending off suitors who are after her money until she finds "the one". The Scandal Before Christmas by Essex is about a quick marriage between a navy officer and the shy daughter of his friend. It Happened Under the Mistletoe by Bowman is about a "pretend" relationship, which develops into the real thing.

Linda Harrison
The Son by Jo Nesbo

5
When his father is found slumped over his desk with a suicide note, his son realizes that his hero father is not someone to look up to anymore and gives up on life. He turned to drugs and went to prison. There he admitted to crimes he did not commit in order to get drugs. That is until the night one of the inmates told him that his father was murdered. He woke up and realized it was up to him to bring the crooked policemen and politicians to justice.

Linda Harrison
Windigo Island by William Kent Krueger

4
Cork O’Connor, former sheriff and now a private investigator, has been asked by the Arceneaux family to find their missing daughter, Mariah. She and another girl disappeared from the reservation and everyone thought they ran away as many young girls did. The body of the other young girl was found washed up on Windigo Island. As Cork follows leads, they take him to Duluth and the sex trafficking of young women.

Linda Harrison
Fast Track by Julie Garwood

5
A great story as Cordelia Kane fell in love with her knight in shining armor when she was only five years old. Her knight was her best friend’s older brother, Aiden Madison. He saw her only as his sister’s best friend until things changed one night. He fell in love with her but didn’t realize it or even wanted to admit it. It took a couple of chances on Cordie’s life until he finally woke up. It is up to Aiden and his FBI friends to find out who is so determined to end Cordie’s life.

Linda Harrison
Shots Fired by C. J. Box

4
This book has short stories, three of which center around Joe Pickett, game warden, and one centers around Nate Romanowski, falconer and Joe’s friend. I found all to be very good.

Doris Willis
Somewhere Safe with Somebody Good by Jan Karon

1
I read the whole series and was looking forward to reading this. It is totally religious in content. The characters are from past books, and of course everything ends up tidy.

Linda Harrison
The Collector by Nora Roberts

4
Lila Emerson is a house-sitter and uses her imagination and binoculars to observe others and build a story around the people she observes. One night, she saw a struggle going on and then a young woman fell out a window and to her death. Working with the police, Lila met Ash Archer, the brother of a young man who was murdered along with the woman. Lila and Ash decided to investigate on their own to find out why Ash’s brother was killed and by whom.

Linda Harrison
Then Came You by Jill Shalvis

5
Emily Stevens has a one-night stand with Wyatt Stone at a conference, and they never intend to see each other again. When Emily takes her first veterinary intern job in Sunshine, Idaho, she finds her supervisor is none other than Wyatt Stone. And even worse, they are still highly attracted to each other. Emily wanted an intern job in Los Angeles and tells Wyatt that her plans are not to remain in Idaho. But deep inside, she knows this is not true because she loves him and wants to be with him, if only he would ask her to stay.

Linda Harrison
In Your Dreams by Kristan Higgins

5
Emmaline Neal is a deputy in the small town of Manningsport and plays on the hockey team. That is where she met Jack Holland and, like everyone else, fell in love with him. When he accompanied her to her ex-fiance’s wedding, they became a couple. Then his ex-wife, Hadley, came back to town and tried to win him back. Jack was being too nice to her, and Em thought he was still in love with Hadley.

Linda Harrison
Nauti Nights by Lora Leigh

3
Dawg Mackay has been attracted to Crista Jansen for years and was devastated when she left town. Eight years later, she is back but ignoring Dawg. That is, until he saved her from being shot in a warehouse. Dawg blackmails her into staying with him on his boat by threatening to turn her over to the authorities as her description matches the woman acting as the middleman in a stolen weapons case. Dawg forgot what caused Crista to leave town eight years ago, and Crista is determined not to give in to him.

Linda Harrison
Field of Prey by John Sandford

3
Lucas Davenport is working with local law officials to find out who the skeletons are that were found buried in a cistern. As murders are still occurring, they realize there is a serial killer on the loose. When a local policewoman receives letters and phone calls from the killer, Lucas is afraid that she has been targeted.

Becky Haase
A Quilt for Christmas by Sandra Dallas

5
This is a lovely story by a favorite author. In Civil War Kansas, the story follows a young wife who is left behind as her husband goes off to fight for the Union. Eliza carefully makes a quilt to ease his bones and keep him warm and sends it off to him with another soldier as a Christmas gift. Eliza and her two children soon find themselves challenged, first by a Confederate widow and child and then by an escaped slave. Keeping the farm producing is another challenge. Discovering what has happened to the lovingly made quilt is a prime element of a story that contains heartbreak, danger, suspicion, wickedness, love, cooperation and redemption. The characters are true-to-life, the situations and conversations realistic.

Linda Harrison
Remains of Innocence by J. A. Jance

5
As Sheriff Joanna Brady investigates the death of a young man in Bisbee, Arizona, a young woman in Great Barrington, Massachusetts is burying her mother. Cleaning out her mother’s house, she finds hundred dollar bills hidden throughout the house. Apparently, she is not the only one looking for the money because while at the funeral, the house is torched. Then people are killed and she is on the run to Bisbee where her brother lives. This gets Sheriff Brady right in the middle. A great book you will not be able to put down.

Linda Harrison
The Perfect Stranger by Wendy Corsi Staub

5
Several women suffering from cancer post blogs about their ordeals. When one of the bloggers is found murdered in her own home, the others are left wondering how much of their personal information was posted for anyone to read. They begin to suspect each other and begin to ask themselves, "How do we really know another person?" A suspenseful book.

Courtney Haas
Barefoot by Elin Hilderbrand

4
BAREFOOT by Elin Hilderbrand had me at page one. Elin weaved an intricate tale of love, friendship and loss that anyone with a heart can relate to. This is my first read by this author, and I cannot wait to read another one of her books. I opened the pages of this novel, and still feel the magic radiating within. I did not just read a book, but became a fly on the wall. I felt like I was at the beach, I swam and rode the waves of the pages, and it felt magical! Imagine being best friends with someone and coming a breath away from losing them. Elin introduced me to each character in this novel, I really did feel like I came to know them intimately. I cried and laughed with them.

Courtney Haas
The Games We Play (Vol.1) by Elizabeth Nelson

4
I have never experienced heartbreak in the manner the lead character Ali does, but through her powerful words I feel for her and understand what she is going through. I am an avid reader, so I read this pretty quickly. The story ended in suspense; I cannot wait to see what happens in the lives of these mysterious, complex, relatable characters! Ali is just like anyone of us, trying to navigate her way through life in the most harmless way possible. She wants to be loved and wanted, not hurt and discarded. Ali's attempts at recovering after a break up are very challenging, but luckily for her she has her best friend loyally by her side! Ever wonder what your significant other is REALLY thinking? No details are spared in this visual novel.

Helen Duncan
The Heart and the Fist by Eric Greitens

4
Extraordinary man, and a fascinating look at many of the world's "hot spots."

N. Smith
Leaving Time by Jodi Picoult

2
I was on board and enjoying it - even all the elephant info - until the horrendous twist at the end.

Betty Ramsey
Love Letters by Debbie Macomber

4
This was a good read. I don't usually read this type of book...I'm more of a murder mystery kind of reader. But this was a nice change and I enjoyed it. The story tells of a young woman breaking away from her sheltered past to meet a man she knows only from the internet, and a couple trying to repair their breaking-apart marriage. They come to the Rose Harbor Inn with high hopes of a rewarding weekend. The inn's owner has hopes of her own - finding out about why her secretive handy man, Mark, refuses discuss his past. Still mourning her husband's death, she finds herself losing his presence and having thoughts about Mark. Kind of predictable, but that's okay...and a shocker at the end.

Nancy Coughlin
The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafon

4
Enjoyed the book. Not to be read lightly. The reader needs time to comprehend and ruminate on what has been read. Had not read too much based in Barcelona and was most interested in descriptions of the city and what living was like during the war years.

Nancy Boschetti
The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin

5
Although I had not heard of this book before, this book was one that was presented at a monthly book club meeting. It was not the one chosen for us to read, but when I was at our local library I asked two of the librarians who are always a good source for book information and recommendations. They both said it was one of the best books that they had read in a long time. So, I got the book from the library and am so grateful to have learned about the book because it was indeed the best book that I have read in a very long time. So well written and an unusual story.

Becky Haase
Thief of Glory by Sigmund Brouwer

5
Jeremiah tells his story as an old man remembering the years of World War II when his family was interned by the Japanese in the Dutch East Indies. This is a little known part of the Japanese invasion that is overshadowed by the Burma Death March and the bridge over the River Kwai. The writing engages the reader immediately and doesn’t let go until the end. The characters are fully fleshed, the incidents believable, the plot and conflict are layered.

JoRn
The Innocence Game by Michael Harvey

4
A good thriller. It is one of the best books I have read in a long time. I will look into the author's other books.

JoRn
We Are Water by Wally Lamb

2
It was a fair book. I feel it was long and dry in areas.

Marilyn Jensen
Keep Quiet by Lisa Scottoline

5
By far one of her best novels! My husband had a surgery planned, and I took the book along because I knew it would be a long day. I could not put it down - finished by the time I needed to leave him for the evening. Every page made me want to quickly turn to the next. Never anticipated the outcome to be what it was. Thrilling and a story any parent could easily relate too. Just how far would you go to protect someone you love? The characters were portrayed so very well. What a great read!

JoRn
Sarah's Key by Tatiana De Rosnay

4
Starts in France in 1942 and goes back and forth 60 years. It was a painful book to read in parts, but I kept coming back to this book. I'm glad I finished it.

Rena Ackley
The Bone Vault by Linda Fairstein

4
Heart-stopping murder mystery. Story combines NY museums, murders and mummies, bones of native people and 911. Characters lives are complex and fleshed out in the novel. The book kept me reading and I couldn't put it down. I look forward to reading more of Ms. Fairstein's novels and have already downloaded one. If you like murder mysteries with complexity, this is a book you should enjoy.

Bill Hamilton
Dick Francis's Damage by Felix Francis

4
Felix Francis continues in the tradition of his deceased father, bestselling author Dick Francis, by providing a mystery set in the racing world of England. This volume brings us a new character, 30-year-ld Jeff Hinkley, who is an undercover investigator for the British Horse-racing Authority. The main theme is Jeff investigating threats against the Authority that include a five million ransom demand so the person will quit disrupting races taking place across the country. Sub-themes include his relationship with his girlfriend and Jeff's sister fighting cancer. All in all, a solid and enjoyable read.

Thomas Barrington
Invisible by James Patterson

5
I very much enjoyed reading this book. It was fast-moving and up to his standard in suspense. The book was in short chapters, which I like very much.

Thomas Barrington
Private L.A. by James Patterson

4
This is the first Private series book I read. I think I will read the other ones because I really enjoyed reading this one. It only took me 5 days to read, which I did like. I really liked the fast pace.

Thomas Barrington
The First Family Detail by Ronald Kessler

4
This is a non-fiction book, which I do not read a lot of. The book actually was very good. It was interesting to see how the Presidents and Vice President felt about the guards who protected them. Some were friendly, others would not really speak to them very much.

Geri Krempa
The Paris Wife by Paula McClain

5
Amazing. Loved the time period and immediately looked up Hadley and Hemingway information.

Jan Zahrly
Clean Burn by Karen Sandler

4
A good mystery novel. Jumpy at times with some strange physical damage along the way. As you can guess, this book includes a lot of fire. The ending was a good surprise. A former member of the San Francisco police force, Janelle Watkins, has set up her own private investigative shop. She used to be an expert in finding children, but she has stopped that and tends to be looking for and photographing wayward spouses. Two different women approach her about the same time, asking for help in finding children. She rejects them but eventually starts the search and runs into her old lover, a former SFPD member. The cover indicates that this is the first of a series. Good!

Margie Bunting
The Hawley Book of the Dead by Chrysler Szarlan

4
An addictive combination of suspense and beautiful writing, Szarlan's first novel is about Reve (Revelation), who accidentally killed her husband while performing their high-profile magic act in Las Vegas. She knows she's been set up, and she has a big secret--she has a real magical power, unlike her deceased spouse--she can disappear at will. One of their three daughters has already showed signs of a magical power of her own. Reve and her daughters are fleeing from the ominous presence responsible for her husband's death, and their flight takes them to Reve's ancestral home, where her grandmother may be able to shed light on the guilty party.

Laura Busch
The Winter Guest by Pam Jenoff

4
Yet another wonderful story set in the WWII era.

Linda Johnson
Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln by Doris Kearns Goodwin

4
Detailed history of most Americans' favorite president, balancing the demands of a fractured country by relying on the best men Lincoln could enlist to advise him regardless of political ties. We know of the tragedies and sorrows of the Lincolns. This was not unusual for the times. Many of "The Team of Rivals" also were faced with illnesses and deaths of loved ones. In 2014 when the modern day Congress can't seem to talk and compromise, it is heartening to understand that it is possible for all to work for the common good. ('m also tickled by the number of Ohioans who participated in the government and the Civil War. A long, but excellent book with an able narrator, Suzanne Toren.

Gina Wills
You Might Remember Me: The Life and Times of Phil Hartman by Mike Thomas

2
Okay biography of Saturday Night Live comic actor, Phil Hartman. His childhood and marriages are discussed, which give some insight into his passivity. Phil seems to have kept emotional distance from his three wives and numerous friends. He was socially inept when off stage. Phil was a comic genius impersonator (Pres. Clinton, Frank Sinatra among my favorites) on SNL. This book tells of his other jobs before and after SNL that shaped his career.

Jud Hanson
Map of Bones by James Rollins

4
I've been a fan of the Sigma series for years and finally went back and caught up by reading this 2nd entry in the series. This book is a combination of Dan Brown and Clive Cussler, on steroids. If you like action and mystery combined, you owe it to yourself to read this series, starting with SANDSTORM.

Rita Navarre
Through the Deep Waters by Kim Vogel Sawyer

5
Loved this book! This is the first book that I have read from Kim, and I can't wait to read another book from her.

Denise Beierbach
Gray Mountain by John Grisham

5
I kept guessing the ending...wrong.

Cathy Friedberg
The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin

5
Loved this book. Loved the characters. A quiet story with several twists and events that were not predictable. I was sad to reach the end.

Oswaldo Reyes
NYPD Red by James Patterson

5
This book is everything you would expect in a James Patterson novel - excitement, action, an amazing storyline, and a mystery that will keep you guessing and unable to put this book down till the very last page. I'm an avid reader and book collector. I'm also a lifelong James Patterson fan. I own and have all the novels that he has written, starting with his first book, THE THOMAS BERRYMAN NUMBER. NYPD RED is the first book in the NYPD RED series, and it's awesome. The book is so good, I read it in two days. A must-read.

Crystal Blackburn
The Hen of the Baskervilles: A Meg Langslow Mystery by Donna Andrews

5
Murder at a fair in Virginia can be very interesting!

Lori Bednaz
Mother, Mother by Koren Zailckas

5
Great book. I look forward to our club discussion!

Janis Apgar
The Light Between Oceans by M. L. Stedman

5
Just finished reading this -- loved it! Story of a young lighthouse keeper and his new wife, living on an island alone. A baby and a dead man wash up in a boat. They decide to keep the baby as their own and not report the man. The ramifications of this make for a great read - going back and forth between the lines of thought, what is right and wrong, their backgrounds, etc. The writing was great - could really picture what was being described, learned so much about the workings of a lighthouse and the life of the keepers.

Linda Johnson
Carsick: John Waters Hitchhikes Across America by John Waters

3
I listened to this on my iPad. I usually listen to books on my iPad at work at a small university library. I usually place the book on the check-out counter and do not use headphones or ear buds, but I suspected that might be embarrassing with this book. I was right. The book is divided into three parts. The first part is called "Good Rides". I guess if fulfilling every sexual fantasy you've ever had is a goal, then Waters had "good rides". The second part is "Bad Rides". These rides all involved abuse, physical harm and humiliation. Finally, the third section is what actually happened. I do not know (since I sometimes lose my concentration with audio books) if I had been informed about that previously in the book, but I suspect not.

Elaine Baxter
The Truth About The Harry Quebert Affair by Joel Dicker

5
Kept me in suspense from the first page to the last. Excellent book. Will read again.

elaine beierbach
Gray Mountain by John Grisham

5
I love the suspense.

laura beierbach
Gray Mountain by John Grisham

5
I could not put the book down.

Maya Beck
The Sweetest Hallelujah by Elaine Hussey

3
I enjoyed the characters and the racial tension of the times. A good beach book.

Nancy Hausladen
The Runaway Wife by Rowan Coleman

4
The story of a woman who has suffered abuse by her husband for many years. She finally leaves when he bruises their daughter. She runs to to the town where her father, a famous painter, lives. He left the family when she was a child. However, she would like to know him and has no other place to go. Interesting reading.

Melanie Shapiro
Love and Treasure by Ayelet Waldman

4
The story centers around the Hungarian Gold Train seized by US forces in Austria after WWII ends, and the mystery surrounding a beautiful peacock-shaped pendant. There is love, tragedy, moral dilemmas, charming wit and astounding characters throughout. Beautifully written, historically accurate and uniquely structured, I strongly recommend this, especially to any fan of historical fiction.

Judy Tompkins
The Shadow Year by Hannah Richell

5
Loved the two time periods and the fact that Richell kept us guessing until the end!

Francisca E B
The Invention of Wings by Sue Monk Kidd

4
Kidd has crafted an excellent work of historical fiction, inspired by the true story of the Grimke sisters, Sarah and Angelina, who were famous (and infamous) abolitionists and early pioneers in seeking equal rights for women. She balances Sarah’s story by imagining the life of one of her family’s slaves, a lady’s maid and seamstress named Handful. Slavery was an ugly institution and Kidd does little to soften the view. I admired the Grimke sisters, but I loved Handful, Charlotte and Sky; they were imprisoned in body, they were not imprisoned in mind. Jenna Lamia and Adepero Oduye take turns performing the audio book.

Jan Zahrly
Saint's Gate by Carla Neggers

3
This is the first of a series about two FBI agents who get it together - in all ways that you can imagine. There are red herrings and incomplete information that keep this mystery going. It is a quick read with a lackluster ending.

Tessa B C
Wonder by R.J. Palacio

5
This is a wonderful debut novel dealing with bullying and courage. Auggie is an endearing 10-year-old who, despite his extraordinary face, is really just an ordinary kid - he likes ice cream, riding his bike, and his X-Box. The message is one that is empowering to children and adults. We should all strive to be kinder than necessary. Your worth is not dependent on how popular you are or on who finds you attractive. Everyone in the world should have a standing ovation at least once in their lives.

Julie Sutherland
Dark Places by Gillian Flynn

5
I read this book right after reading GONE GIRL, which I thought was amazing. DARK PLACES was a very good read. Completely different from GONE GIRL, which I think marks a great writer. The storyline kept me engaged. I found myself rooting for Libby's happy ending which, if you know Gillian Flynn's stories, would not be a typical happy ending.

Becky Haase
The Art Restorer by Julian Sanchez

4
A mystery unfolds within this tale of art, artists, writers, secrets and beautiful scenery. The locations range around the world and are delightfully rendered. The characters are well developed and engaging. The mystery is interesting and will keep you guessing until the end. Because this is a translation, you will find a few awkward constructions, but persevere; this tale is well worth it. The main characters, Enrique and his former wife, Bety, find themselves embroiled in controversy when the art restorer and writer researching Sert paintings disappears. Bety and Craig, the restorer, had become friends while he studied the paintings in the museum/church where Bety worked.

Kara S
Tom's River: A Story of Science and Salvation by Dan Fagin

5
I enjoyed Dan Fagin's landmark exploration of a fascinating example of the toxic effects of the byproducts of corporate activities on the the people who live their lives in the vicinity of those activities. The quality and depth of Fagin's journalism in TOM'S RIVER meets the highest standards; it's a Pulitzer Prize winner. I think it bears pointing out that what distinguishes TOM'S RIVER as a historic achievement is not only Fagin's exemplary skill in providing readers with a clear and compelling account of a tremendously complex, unfamiliar topic. Rather, it is my strong view that Fagin has written a book of tremendous social and political importance that speaks to issues central to contemporary life. Inspiring read.

Kara S
The Biology of Luck by Jacob M. Appel

5
The novel THE BIOLOGY OF LUCK calls to this reader's mind some of the greatest novels ever written in English ( in my humble opinion), MIDDLEMARCH and most notably ULYSSES. This is definitely a must-read for any student or great lover of the English-language novel. Appel does more than enough to fully capture the imagination of a reader inclined to engage deeply with the material. I must admit, however, that this novel didn't move me like other great books with that I associate it with based on its ambitious scope. Excellent novel, but not my all-time fave. Highly recommend it.

Kara S
Desperate by Daniel Palmer

4
Although DESPERATE did not make a big impression on me in light of the many other valuable texts I am lucky enough to read on a regular basis, this novel's strengths should not be overlooked by prospective readers. Please consider that from the first page to the last, I inhabited the protagonists' world and cared only for the outcome of their affairs thanks to Palmer's excellent craftsmanship as a novelist. Palmer maintained an expert balance among the disparate elements of the novel (character, setting, plot, etc) as well as a steady, organic pace in his storytelling. Most critically, he delivered the high-impact, climactic plot elements that provided the thrills I sought to find in this book. Kudos to Palmer.

Janet P Bedell
Antarctica: A Biography by David Day

4
This book summarizes all the other books I read about Antarctica.

Thomas Barrington
A Sudden Light by Garth Stein

4
I thought this was a very good book. It gets four stars from me. It is a very good story about a family's past.

Monica Jordan
Suspect by Robert Crais

4
A perfect book for mystery and dog lovers! SUSPECT is about loss and healing and is told from the point of view of Maggie, a Marine Corps dog with PTSD, and Scott, an LAPD policeman who has recently lost his partner. These two characters team up to get to the bottom of the murder of Scott's partner. I thought the dog's thoughts and take on the events was quite entertaining and insightful. This is a page-turner and a fast read.

Kara S
The Bully Pulpit: Theodore Roosevelt, William Howard Taft, and the Golden Age of Journalism by Doris Kearns Goodwin

4
In this work, a time of exciting change, danger and opportunity is the setting for unique, fascinating characters to make their respective marks on our national history in surprising and impressive ways. The accurate and thorough grounding in time and place serves as a mere backdrop to the actions of individuals, or rather, the political situation is presented within the narrative as a thing that sets great human forces in motion. Of course, the context is ultimately critical since only in the effects of individuals' actions do we find the historical significance to the country. To sum up: without undermining the time and place, Goodwin provides readers with a chance to engage with history on an empathetic level -- uniquely meaningful!

Kara S
The Paying Guests by Sarah Waters

5
THE PAYING GUESTS brings together a thrilling mystery, a tumultuous romance, and passionate, complex characters! Waters masterfully frames this twisty tale in the context of rare historical social change, which is explored beautifully as the narrative shows the nuances of its effects on the characters at the heart of the story.

Kara S
Last Train to Babylon by Charlee Fam

4
LAST TRAIN TO BABYLON is a coming-of-age story in which the protagonist journeys from the post-trauma agony (not just physical) of a hospital bed to a woman more certain of herself and more in control than ever before, ready to take her own best shot in the ever-uncertain and uncontrollable world. While lacking some literary merits, this was a memorable read distinguished by unusual strengths - most notably a sharply insightful & personally relatable narrative voice. I would personally recommend this book because I think it's a compelling page-turner that takes on substantive social issues successfully. Thematic depth, 3-dimensional characters & a well-paced plot that immediately engages reader sympathy distinguish this book from the pack.

kathy Vallee
Final Sentence by Daryl Wood Gerber

5
This is number one in this series, and I finally finished the book, which I found I really liked and had a hard time putting down. I love how fast clip it was and how the author brought all the people in the book to life.

JoAnne Simon
I Still Dream About You by Fannie Flagg

5
A murder mystery that includes a lot of wisdom.

Judy O.
Five Days Left by Julie Lawson Timmer

4
There are two stories woven together in this affecting book. The first one is about Tom and Mara Nichols. She is slowly dying of a terrible hereditary disease. The second story is that of Scott and Laurie Coffman, who are the foster parents of a 7-year-old boy named Curtis. The boy is slated to go back to live with his drug addicted mother in just five days. In spite of the topics, it manages to be an uplifting book.

Richard N B
Shotgun Lovesongs by Nickolas Butler

4
This is a novel of friendship and of men growing to adulthood. Butler writes prose that is poetic and atmospheric. Each of the five main characters has a chance to narrate, so the reader gets some insight into each of their inner thoughts and feelings, and their observations on the others in the quintet. Highly recommended for readers who enjoy character-driven novels. The audio book features five performers, each voicing a different character in alternating chapters.

Jan Zahrly
The Color of Water by James McBride

5
This wonderful book is awe inspiring. James McBride grew up poor, the child of a black man (who died before he was born) and a white Jewish mother. His amazing mother raised 12 children, with no formal education, and raised them around black neighbors. All children have now completed college and several have graduate degrees. McBride floundered around with drugs, music, reporting, and struggled to find himself. He finally realized that he needed to understand his amazing mother before he could find who he was. Against her desire, he continued to ask about her background and to research, finding her roots in the racist South. His mother endured almost everything you can imagine and still survived. This book is a winner.

Sandra Furlotte
First Impressions by Charlie Lovett

4
Recently there have been a lot of books involving Jane Austen, some good and many bad. This book is one of the good ones. It was a pleasure to read, not only for the Austen connection but for the love of books that the author exhibits.

Donna Shaw
London Transports by Maeve Binchy

2
This is an easy read of 22 short stories telling the different experiences of women in London.

Donna Shaw
About Face by Fern Michaels

4
A young girl was institutionalized for 10 years and is released. She has no memory of life prior to this period, but has her mother's address. As her memory starts to surface there are attempts on her life by those around her.

Francisca E B
Anne of Avonlea by L. M. Montgomery

4
I am late to the party in regards to this series, having read ANNE OF GREEN GABLES only a few years ago, but I immediately fell in love with Anne. Her enthusiasm for life and natural predilection for finding trouble continue to charm and engage readers a century later. The books are enjoyable for adults and children alike. Shelly Frasier does a fine job narrating the audio book. She imbues Anne with an infectious charm and is particularly delightful when voicing young Davy Keith.

jane Kimball
Ordinary Grace by William Kent Krueger

5
Award winning novel of how a special family copes with tragedy. Beautifully written.

Jennifer Ingman
Stillwater Rising by Steena Holmes

5
This is a tough subject matter to tackle in our current society, picking up the pieces after a school shooting in a small community. Ms. Holmes takes each of her characters and explores their flaws, friendships and relationships. She made me want to continue turning the pages to the very end. I read an advanced copy; this book publishes early November 2014.

Marsha
Without Fail by Lee Child

4
This is a rollicking good thriller in which Jack Reacher and CIA and FBI agents are working together to protect the incoming Vice President of the US. As usual, Reacher and one of the female agents end up at the peak of the action just in time.

Susan Spencer
A Red Herring Without Mustard by Alan Bradley

5
I fell in love with Alan Bradley's THE SWEETNESS AT THE BOTTOM OF THE PIE, and each book just gets better.The books all revolve around Flavia de Luce, an eleven-year-old girl who solves the murders. A great read.

Krismar Ramker
Son by Lois Lowry

5
Amazing part of Lois Lowry's collection, which includes THE GIVER. SON has all the merits of THE GIVER and does not disappoint with strong characters and a heart-warming storyline.

Carol Bergstrom
To Dwell in Darkness by Deborah Crombie

5
Ms. Crombie is one of my favorite authors and in this book she does not disappoint. Her characters are very real, and she creates an aura of suspense that sustains throughout the story.

Norene Wittlin
If Only by Robin Nadler

4
I thoroughly enjoyed it.

KAREN MCCRARY
Still Life with Bread Crumbs by Anna Quindlen

5
Fast read. There is still life as you grow old with the younger generation.

Ruth Schuler
The Third Son by Julie Wu

5
By far one of the best books I have read this year. I chose it for my book club and all the gals loved it. I never knew much about Taiwan and its history, and Julie made it fascinating.

Joyce Igel
A Life Intercepted: A Novel by Charles Martin

5
Even if you're not a football fan, the believable, well-developed characters in this book weave their way into your heart. Themes of redemption, trust, forgiveness, friendship, as well as lost and unsuspected love tie the twisting plot together. Charles Martin's touching author's note at the end (and his reading of it online) demonstrates his integrity as a loving father and a skilled writer.

Barbara Mardones
Orphan Train by Christina Baker Kline

4
Very engaging way to learn about a period in our history and feel the personal reverberations.

Myrna Lippman
The Secret Place by Tana French

4
One day in the lives of two Dublin Murder Squad detectives, investigating the murder of a teenage boy at a private girls' school. Very well written and plotted. This if French's fifth book in the series that features different detectives in each novel.

Michael McAdam
Wastelands, Dark Tower #3 by Stephen King

5
I am rereading this series at the behest of a friend. I only read the first few books last time, and I must say I am really enjoying it this time around! I remember nothing from the last time I read it, so it is like reading it for the first time. It is different, engaging, has characters I have grown to care about and is not even remotely predictable. I recommend the series.

Gloria Fabijanic
The Giver by Lois Lowry

5
Takes place in a Utopian society where pain, hunger, illness, war, fear and hatred are eliminated - a society of sameness. In the ceremony of twelve, the main character, Jonas, is selected to be the Receiver of Memories. His life as he knows it, is forever changed. A very powerful and thought-provoking book.

Muriel Logan
The End of Your Life Book Club by Will Schwalbe

5
I can't believe it took me so long to read this book. After Mary Schwalbe's diagnosis of pancreatic cancer, she and her son Will pass the time during her chemo sessions discussing books, in essence forming a book club of two. Mary is a lady I grew to admire more and more as I learned about her humanitarian work in Afghanistan and other countries. I also admired the way she faced her illness and appreciated the wisdom she shared. The memoir was a nice tribute by a son to a wonderful lady and as well a tribute to the power of books to connect and comfort. We will definitely use the book for my book club.

Brenda Klaassen
The Soul of All Living Creatures: What Animals Can Teach Us About Being Human by Vint Virga, DVM

4
This book was a little on the sappy side, but it did make me stop and think, so the author did achieve one of his goals. After reading this book I will never go to a zoo and gaze on the animals again in an indifferent way. This book did remind me to pause each day for a little bit and really "be" in the moment. This book was worth the time it took to read it.

Suzy B Marcus
Hidden Riches by Nora Roberts

2
I know Nora Roberts has sold millions of books. This book, my first by the author, was a disappointment in several ways. Although I loved the research and detail regarding the antique dealership owned by our heroine, I did not care for the casual comments on date rape and alcoholism. I stuck it out to the end, but I'm not sure if I will read another of her books.

Janie Foster
One Thousand White Women: The Journals of May Dodd by Jim Fergus

5
Although it is fiction it is quite plausible. It is interesting to find a male author writing so well from a woman's perspective. I found the ending to be quite emotional.

Carol Lawman
The Fourteenth Protocol by Nathan A. Goodman

5
One of the most exciting books I have read all year. Imagine terrorists setting off bombs inside our country; small ones at first and then larger and deadlier. While the FBI is scrambling to find out who's behind these and where and when the next will occur, we are horrified by the thought that perhaps a government entity may be involved. Mr. Goodman is brilliant at keeping a clear, fast pace. You could set this book down for a few hours (because, alas, life does interfere sometimes), but in seconds your heart is again racing. In fact, hours after I finished it my heart rate and pulse were still pretty high! The best part? There's a hint that a sequel will be forthcoming!

Judy Marie
As You Wish: Inconceivable Tales From The Making of the Princess Bride by Cary Elwes

4
A wonderful read for fans of the movie 'The Princess Bride'. It's not great literature but full of inside information about the making of the cult favorite movie. A fast read that will have you queuing up the movie to watch specific parts of the film since you now have the inside scoop. I've recommended this to all my friends who, too, love Westley, Buttercup, Inigo, Fezzik, and Miracle Max.

Phyllis
Life After Life by Kate Atkinson

5
Ursula has a strange ability to be born, die and be reborn, changing events in her life. The novel is a very intriguing back and forth look at her life with historical fiction woven into the story.

Susan Spencer
Site Unseen by Iris Johansen

4
Another very entertaining book by Iris Johansen. Well written and enjoyable. Can't wait for the next one.

Richard N B
Different Seasons by Stephen King

4
This is a collection of four short stories/novellas that do not fit neatly into the horror genre. Three have been made into the successful films: The Shawshank Redemption, Apt Pupil, and Stand By Me. Even though these are not horror stories, King still delivers his trademark tight plotting, graphically vivid scenes and memorable characters. They are stories that fire the reader’s imagination. And that, in a nutshell, is why I love reading fiction in general, and King in particular.

Mary Mahoney
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

5
This classic novel tells tales of childhood, adventure and learning about life against a background of the Depression, racism and justice.

Sandy McCullough
12th of Never by James Patterson

4
I always like James Patterson books and this was no exception. Lots of different plots to follow though, so it took me longer to read than usual.

Donna Shaw
Free Fall by Fern Michaels

4
The Sisterhood complete their final revenge for the women of the group. Now, it is time for them to help others as the series continues. These stories are always fun to read.

Aletheia
The Future for Curious People by Gregory Sherl

4
In this not too distant future, people can look at a moment (several moments) of their relationships to see how they fare in the future. You can look at your current, hopeful, or past relationship to see how it all works out and see if you're satisfied with where you are at that time. And so our protagonists do. Evelyn, quirky librarian, looks into her future to see how things work out with her musician boyfriend. And Godfrey, cell-phone recoverer, is bullied into doing the same with his to-be fiancee. And neither is altogether pleased with the peek they see. So they go peeking a little more, hoping they'll stumble onto a future that satisfies them more. Sherl does a great job with pacing, characters, and plot. Recommended!

Marilyn Myers
The Minor Adjustment Beauty Salon by Alexander McCall Smith

5
What's not to enjoy about the interactions within the confines of the No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency! I get such a kick out of each one and look forward to MaRamotse's philosophical advice.

Donna Meier
Lake Eden Cookbook by Joanne Fluke

5
I found some great recipes in here…trying out while in AZ. This is the cookie baker, Hannah Swenson, who solves mysteries in her hometown of Minnesota. This is a short novella spread out between the pages of a cookbook. My husband enjoyed the recipes. A fellow book club member got me started on this series, and I have tried to keep up with new books. This one came out in 2011, and I have had it in my to-read pile, along with the last one out, BLACKBERRY PIE.

DEMM
She-Wolves: The Women Who Ruled England Before Elizabeth by Helen Castor

5
This is a purely historical book about 12th-15th century England, but I got interested in reading it after listening to my husband ( who is the closest English history expert I know ). He was my resident expert to help me keep track of all of these women and their place in English history. The book explores women struggling in English rule and their ruling and the power of the crown, whether the women were queens or consorts or dowager queens. They were heirs to the Tudor throne, but they had to negotiate for power and to rule. The women the book follows are Matilda, daughter of Henry I and granddaughter of William the Conquerer, Eleanor of Aquitaine, Isabella of France, and Margaret of Anjou.

Jean Brown
The Paying Guests by Sarah Waters

5
5 stars. Kindle book.

Phyllis Relyea
Summer House with Swimming Pool by Herman Koch

4
After enjoying THE DINNER by this Dutch author, I was anxious to see what he wrote next. I was not disappointed in the novel about Mark and Caroline Schlossel and their two daughters, Julia and Lisa. Many themes are introduced, including the mysterious rape. I listened to the audiobook, which is recommended.

Marsha
The Dark Tide by Andrew Gross

4
When her husband is declared dead after an explosion, a year later she notices him in a recording of the event and all hell breaks open. What causes a happily married family man to succumb to such a thing? With the help of a detective in the local police, she unravels the journey of her husband's downfall. Quite the thriller.

Shar Coverstone
When I Wasn't Watching by Michelle Kelly

4
Lucy Randall, who now had become Lucy Wyatt because of a divorce, took her eyes off of her four year old son for a brief moment and that was all it took for her son to vanish. He was later found dead by the handsome DI, Matt Winston. It turned out another boy, not that much older, that went to school with her other son, Ricky, was the one who took him. Now eight years later, and what seems like a lifetime, the boy is being released on good behavior. Lucy has lost her husband, Ethan, her son Ricky has not been the same, and she now has to come to terms with this boy being released when he was suppose to be sent to prison for life. DI Winston comes back into her life when she needs help coping with son and her own existence.

Linda Reck
Leaving Time by Jodi Picoult

4
For more than a decade, Jenna Metcalf, 13, has never stopped thinking about her mother Alice, who mysteriously disappeared in the wake of a tragic accident. Jenna doesn't believe that her mother would just abandon her. Desperate to find the truth, Jenna hires two recruits and a psychic, Serenity Jones, who came to doubt her gifts. She also enlisted Virgil Stanhope, a jaded private detective who initially investigated Alice's disappearance. All three work together to find answers. Jenna's memory meshes with the events in her mother's journals about grieving elephants. The story races to a spellbinding finish. LEAVING TIME is a profoundly captivating and an intelligent page-turner.

Sandra Furlotte
Mr. Chartwell by Rebecca Hunt

4
An unusual and fascinating view of depression. Rebecca Hunt uses Winston Churchill and his well documented battle with depression or "the black dog" as he called it. Definitely leaves the reader with much to think about.

Gina
The Heist by Daniel Silva

2
I found this book very difficult to care about. It is about art forgery and theft. Silva always makes the end interesting ... but that took forever to get to. I liked THE ENGLISH GIRL better and will give Mr. Silva a rest for a while.

SALLY GASS
The Round House by Louise Erdrich

4
Most interesting and informative reading. An education in Indian history for white Americans to read. I see why American history books do not go in depth on this. SHAME ON US!!

SALLY GASS
The Paris Architect by Charles Belfoure

3
Another book about history. This one during World War II taking place in Paris and surrounding countryside. Very interesting players, motives and personalities relating to each other. Great mystery in the plots.

Betty Ramsey
Handbook for an Unpredictable Life by Rosie Perez

3
I've always liked Rosie Perez, but I didn't know her. I found out a lot about her in this book. She was abandoned by her mother, who continued having children and abandoning them...to the Catholic church. Her life, from the age of 3, was pretty much punishments, beatings and rigid rules, with occasional visits with her aunt who loved and wanted her. Her adult life was about learning to be a choreographer for TV dancers, her movies, and repeated betrayals by her mother and her other children. Hard to believe how she kept trusting them and putting up with their treatment of her. This book was written in first person but would have been better as a biography with a writer telling it. The way she told it started to sound a lot like bragging.

Lynn W
The Light Between Oceans by M. L. Stedman

5
Read this for the second time for book club and think it's one of the best of the last two years. The Lexington Ladies discussed all aspects of this book for more than an hour. I rarely rate five stars, but this book is a top-ten-must read!

Jan Zahrly
Open and Shut by David Rosenfelt

5
This is a delightful mystery, with many personal touches; the realization that a marriage is meaningless, doubt about one's father after he is dead, and faith in other human beings. The novel is complex in that it covers many potential suspects, a frame-up, payoffs. A great read. I hope there are other Andy Carpenter books to follow.

Rachelle Strachar
The Story Hour by Thrity Umrigar

3
I have loved all of Thrity Umrigar's books. However, this book is an exception. The lead character, Maggie, is unlikable. The book lacks comprehensive character descriptions that are Ms Umrigar's signature writing style. I felt this book propelled stereotyped characters, which is very different from Umrigar's other books. Thrity Umrigar has a gift of writing so much feeling and description in few words. That is missing in this book. The storyline is interesting and the book is an easy read. It is about drawing an ethical line in the gray areas. I felt the characters exceeded their boundaries too often in this book.

Lynn W
Top Secret Twenty-One by Janet Evanovich

3
Gotta love Stephanie...and Ranger...and Morelli. They're always good for an evening's entertainment!

Irene Unger
Stones from the River by Ursula Hegi

5
Beautifully written story of Trudi, a dwarf ("zwerg"),born in Germany between WW1 and WW2, and the life she leads trying to be "normal" while making a life for herself in her little village. Five stars!

Nedra Shultz
The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt

1
This was a hard, long book to read. Really wonder why it was on best seller list.

Brenda Rupp
When In Doubt, Add Butter by Beth Harbison

3
It was an interesting story about a women who had given up a child for adoption at a very young age, who went on to become a chef, the kind that goes into peoples homes and cooks for them. She has a one night stand that ends up leaving her pregnant, but she doesn't know how to find him. Also, someone seems to be getting her fired from her weekend jobs at the local hall that hosts events. Who is it and why?

Tessa B C
Mr Penumbra's 24-Hour Bookstore by Robin Sloan

5
Something very strange is going on at Mr Penumbra’s 24-Hour Bookstore, and Clay Jannon (with a little help from his friends) is determined to find the secret. This is a literary adventure, a fantasy quest, a tale of friendship, a coming-of-age story and an exploration of man’s search for meaning all in one. It pays homage to old knowledge while celebrating new technology, and encourages us to look to the past while envisioning the future. The characters are strange and loveable, obtuse and insightful. And the settings -- I could feel the chill, smell the books, and I swear the dust made me sneeze repeatedly! Ari Fliakos does a marvelous job performing the audio version of the book.

Lynn W
84, Charing Cross Road by Helene Hanff

4
I chose this book for discussion based solely on the title and the cover picture. What a delight--- charming, whimsical, and hilarious.

Alene Galyon
Calling Me Home by Julie Kibler

4
Very enjoyable read. A story of an interracial relationship and attempted marriage in Kentucky in the late 1930s. Also the story of an interracial friendship set in modern times.

Trezeline L. Brooks
Edge of Eternity by Ken Follett

5
Can be read as a stand alone but better if you read FALL OF GIANTS and WINTER OF THE WORLD first. The book is excellent and retells the history of the 1960s. This book, along with the first two mentioned above, tells the history of the 20th century, thus the Century Trilogy. Like PILLARS OF THE WORLD, the books are magnificent.

Judy
Necessary Lies by Diane Chamberlain

5
I devoured this book. I know it is fiction, but the characters were real to me because this is a story that happened many times in our history. I cried for each of the women in the Hart family.They were my neighbors, sisters, friends. It is a true testimony for the plight of the poor and disabled people in our country.

Jane
Leaving Time by Jodi Picoult

5
WOW! If you liked MY SISTER'S KEEPER, you will like this one. It would be a great one for a book club, but do not let anyone come to the discussion unless they have finished the book. Do not wait to get this one!!!

Bonnie Gluhanich
The Assassination of Margaret Thatcher by Hilary Mantel

3
Intriguing book of short stories.

Bonnie Gluhanich
Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel

4
Prescient novel about a world decimated because of a worldwide virus. Fascinating and well-written.

Donna Shaw
Hide and Seek by Fern Michaels

3
The vigilante group known as The Sisterhood are no longer seeking justice for themselves alone, but are now helping others outside the group. Typical of the Sisterhood series and a fun book to read.

Sharon Lumb
The Minaturist by Jessie Burton

3
This story of Nella immediately caught my interest, and I had trouble putting it down. In 17th century Amsterdam, Nella seeks to start her marriage to a wealthy merchant-trader. She imagines a life of love and ease, but that is not to be. Each member of the family has his/her own secret. These secrets will threaten to destroy the household.

Jackie Ranaldo
The Good Girl by Mary Kubica

3
I enjoyed reading it and was definitely surprised by the twist at the end of the book. I will be recommending it to others.

Vivian Taylor
Five Days Left by Julie Lawson Timmer

5
I found this to be an amazing story of the families we create via adoption, fostering, and birth.

Linda Johnson
The Light Between Oceans by M. L. Steadman

5
If I could have read this book in one sitting, I would have. I couldn't get enough time with this book nor turn the pages fast enough. It would be an excellent book for a book discussion, which is how it progressed from my TBR list. A man, recently returned from action in WW I returns to Australia, meets girl, gets job in an remote island lighthouse, woos girl through exchange of letters (every six months), marries girl, brings to the lighthouse. After two miscarriages and a stillborn birth an unexpected arrival restores hope to the despondent girl. The decisions made with this arrival drive the rest of the story and provide much head shaking, questioning, and even anger for the reader. I didn't agreed with many decisions, but a good read.

Jane Squires
To Everything A Season by Lauraine Snelling

4
A book of the seasons of life from beginning to end. A book of encouragement but also questions we ask God. The start of a hospital in Blessing. Nurses brought to town to train at hospital. Family life, the life of a rural town, and differences of beliefs. So many times I ask a question of God and found same question by someone in this book. A struggle with faith so many can relate to. I know some are seeking more than romance; this book offers much more. Their are babies born, difficulties, life happenings, and yes, even death. Have tissues ready near end. I highly recommend this book. It will leave you waiting for the next one.

Crystal Blackburn
The Death of Pie: A Pennsylvania-Dutch Mystery with Recipes by Tamar Myers

5
Hilarious and a good mystery.

Rita Calderwood
Lucky Us by Amy Bloom

4
Great book...different and interesting writing style.

Robin McKay
The Heart of Christmas by Brenda Novak

5
THE HEART OF CHRISTMAS has it all -- heart pumping action, a bit of mystery, and a beautiful story of love between two people who never thought they would find it. It is always a delight to return to Whiskey Creek and touch base with the people who live there. I think this book is Novak’s best in the Whiskey Creek series so far.

shelly itkin
Golden State by Michelle Richmond

2
I had never read anything by Michelle Richmond and was excited about this book, GOLDEN STATE. However, I became confused and had to reread many of the passages and did not enjoy that. The main character, Julie, a doctor, is going to deliver her sister Heather’s baby. She has not seen her since she left for medical school and here she is at the VA Hospital. This book takes place in one day in which we learn how Julie is coping with an impending divorce, trying to negotiate with a man who is now holding her friend and co-workers hostage, and helping to deliver her sister's baby. This is supposed to take place in the not too distant future when San Francisco is taking a vote on cessation from the rest of the nation.

Thomas Barrington
The Innovators by Walter Isaacson

4
I though enjoyed reading this non-fiction book. I also read his book about Steve Jobs and enjoyed it. This book talks about a group of hackers, geniuses and geeks who created the digital revolution. They created the Web and Internet we have so enjoyed.

Mil Kupiec
Life by Keith Richards

5
I was not expecting to be so thoroughly entertained. A no-holds-barred, straight-up account of a rock star's life - the good, bad and ugly. Laugh out loud funny in spots, with unflinching details and no apologies.

Shelia Worthey
My Struggle: Book 2: A Man in Love by Karl Ove Knausgaard

3
Three stars because it did drag at times...just like your own life...hahaha, but four stars for putting your life out there! Unique, insightful glimpse into this very sensitive man who is struggling to be good and find himself in this world. For all his unabashed revelations, you still feel that there is a part of him you don't know. Which, of course, brings to mind: Do you ever REALLY know a person? Interesting observations of the views of Swedes vs Norwegians and vice versa, to which this Texas gal thought -- they are all over there together, is there that much difference? I guess there is! Just like there are differences between our individual United States.

BK
Mr. Mercedes by Stephen King

5
I am not usually a fan of King’s book, but I really enjoyed this one! A retired detective gets drawn back into a case that has turned cold. A killer in a stolen Mercedes committed mass murder. With the help of a wacky woman and a teenage lawn boy, the detective tries to look at the cold case through fresh eyes with the hope of finding the killer. I listened on CD. Will Patton was the perfect narrator for the story.

BK
The Right Thing by Amy Conner

4
The story of two little 7-year-old best friends is told through the eyes of the women as adults. One is from the wrong side of the tracks in Jackson, MS. The other is the daughter of a doctor. I listened on CD and enjoyed the narrator. It is one of the “Southern Voices” books.

BK
Shanghai Girls by Lisa See

4
Two modern sisters in Shanghai in the late 1930s are having the time of their lives modeling for Beautiful Girl advertisements. Then the Japanese invade China and their lives take a radical turn to endure hardships they could never have imagined in their previously comfortable world. They are sold by their father, which turns out to be the one thing that might save them. It is a page-turning story. Anything that Lisa See writes is a pleasure to read. I hope there is a sequel to the girls’ story.

BK
The Bride’s House by Sandra Dallas

4
A poor, runaway girl ends up working in a boarding house in a Colorado mining town in 1880. She sees a house under construction and dreams of one day being a bride in the Victorian mansion. The story then tells of three generations of women who live in The Bride’s House, each with their own dreams and secrets. The story ends with the Korean War. I listened on CD and enjoyed the narrator.

BK
That Summer by Lauren Willig

4
An unemployed New York young woman inherits a house in England from her deceased mother’s aunt that she has only vague memories of. She travels to England to quickly sell the house and return to her job hunt in NY. When she arrives at the Victorian house, she finds it is a mess and stuffed with old papers and things. She has to clean it out before she can sell it. She finds an intriguing oil portrait of a young woman from the 1800s. The story then jumps between the current owner and the people who lived there at the time the portrait was painted.

BK
Operation Napoleon by Arnaldur Indridason

4
This action novel was translated from Icelandic. An exciting tale that covers four days in the life of a young Icelandic woman whose brother has gone missing on a glacier. The glacier had recently started melting and yielded up a WW2 plane that the Americans had been looking for since the war. As she looks for the truth of her brother’s fate, she is swept into an secret operation that the Americans have been desperately trying to cover up since the war. The situation threatens the existence of the US base in Iceland. I listened on CD and enjoyed the narrator and the story.

BK
The Son by Jo Nesbo

4
An ethereal young man has spent half his life in an Oslo prison serving time for various murders. His drug addiction and downward spiral began the day his father, a police officer, committed suicide. Now a priest at the prison tells the man that it wasn’t as it seemed. A wild ride begins as the young man sets out to avenge his father's death. I think this is the best novel written by Nesbo.

BK
Pearl of China by Anchee Min

4
A fictionalized biography of Pearl S. Buck’s life in China. It is told from the viewpoint of her Chinese best friend that she met when just a little girl. The story continues through Nixon’s visit to China. The narrator on CD was excellent.

BK
Detour by James Siegel

4
Another wild ride that was as good as Siegel’s earlier book, DERAILED. This time, an average insurance man and his wife go to Colombia to adopt a baby. They are ready to come home when their lives take a detour. He uses his insurance odds to figure out how to rescue them from the nightmare they encountered with the FARC rebels in the jungle. It’s a page-turner with surprising twists and turns right up to the end.

Michael Gonzales
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

5
Rereading this title and it is just as good as I remember it. If you haven't read it you should and if you have read it before you should take the time to read it again. A great classic. I always wonder if Harper Lee has written other books that are just sitting around to be published after her death.

Jennifer Huelsebusch
The Secret Life of Violet Grant by Beatriz Williams

5
I have read all of Beatriz's books (this is the 3rd) and have loved them all. This has the right mix of history, as well as romance and a little suspense. I love the back and forth between Violet and her great niece, Vivian, and also the mention of characters from A HUNDRED SUMMERS.

Richard N B
The Quiet Game by Greg Iles

3
This is a fast-paced mystery thriller with more than its share of action and violence, and a high body count. Iles kept the tension high and kept me turning pages, but I felt the entire conspiracy was unnecessarily complicated. The two side stories mostly just padded the page count. I’ll give Iles credit, though, for writing some of the “best” smarmy, power-hungry villains to be found between book covers. I wanted to strangle them myself, and almost all of them got what they deserved.

Linda Johnson
The Painter by Peter Heller

4
This is the second of Peter Heller's books. I liked this one better than the first. Again, he has a lone strong male character as the protagonist. Despite committing two murders during the course of the book, Jim Stegner is a multi-faceted individual, painter, fly fisherman, and mourner for his only daughter who died at sixteen. Heller's writing is very descriptive and poetic, but occasional coarse. The narrator, Mark Deakins, was excellent and seemed the perfect voice for the manly sensitive Stegner.

Judy O.
Remains of Innocence by J.A. Jance

3
I'd probably give this book a 3.5 if I could. This is a Sheriff Joanna Brady mystery, and it's a good story. There are two different crime scenes in this book. One is in Bisbee, AZ and the other in Massachusetts. The two different scenes gradually come together. However, one of them was satisfactorily solved and the other one was kind of left dangling. All in all, I did find it a pretty good read.

Lynore Berkke
Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand

5
Our book club is based in the hometown of Louis Zamperini - the WWII hero of this biography. While anyone and everyone who reads this book will be moved, our club especially related to his experience. Some members remembered the days when Louie appeared in the local newspapers. His story is one of perseverance, forgiveness, and patriotism. All readers can benefit from Louie's true story of survival against the most catastrophic odds.

Veronica Earley
I Am Malala: The Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot By the Taliban by Malala Yousafzai

5
I feel this should be required reading by all young adults, junior high through collage. A wonderful read.

Linda Johnson
Frank Einstein and the Antimatter Motor by Jon Scieszka

3
This book is meant for someone decades younger than I, but I'm just a big kid. I'm sure this is a book that Jon Scieszka will promote through his "Guys Can Read" campaign. The intended audience is probably a fifth grader. I still enjoyed the story of a young scientist who is trying to develop THE winning science project for an upcoming science competition. This story has everything you could want 1. a play on a scientist's name as the main character, 2. a sidekick named Watson, 3. parents who don't really understand their child but leave him in the care of a more in tune doddering grandpa, 4. a nemesis with a familiar name (another scientist) AND most importantly a robot who tells bad jokes. What's not to like?

Sharon Rose
Under the Skin by Michel Faber

4
I had wanted to read UNDER THE SKIN because I had first seen the film by the same name that was inspired by it, starring Scarlett Johansson. I loved the movie, which was way, way out there. I had heard that the book is very different from the film, and indeed it is, though equally and powerfully weird, and totally unclassifiable. The book fills in a lot of what the film only hinted at, and it goes in a number of other unexpected directions, literally, to beyond the stars and back. I highly recommend this to anyone who is into speculative science fiction, horror, surrealism or just truly trippy yet smart and contemplative ideas.

Tessa B C
Whistling Past the Graveyard by Susan Crandall

3
3.5 stars. Set in 1963 Mississippi, this coming-of-age novel also treats some serious subjects – domestic abuse, alcohol abuse, racism, and child abuse. Nine-year-old Starla is a compelling narrator, even if her understanding of issues isn’t always complete. It was a very fast read, and I was interested from beginning to end.

Becky Haase
Gray Mountain by John Grisham

5
This book has something for, and about, everyone – rich people and poor people, innocents and the guilty, environmentalists and clear cutters, big law and legal aid, murderers and the murdered, the cheats and the honest, those who love and those they love. Because Grisham is a good writer, he can take all these disparate ideas and combine them into a cogent and quick-moving novel. Altogether a well written, fast-paced mystery with a bit of romance and a lot of environmentalism. 5 of 5 stars

Sandy McCullough
The Matchmaker by Elin Hilderbrand

5
One of the best books ever.

Nancy Russ
Nora Webster by Colm Toibin

4
This is the story of a young widow in Ireland who works through her grief and establishes a new life for herself after her husband's death. And, she doesn't find her way through a relationship with another man. She learns that she has the courage and strength to live her own life (maybe for the first time in her life). There is no big climax. The growth is incremental and comes in small doses. It reads like a series of vignettes, and sometimes the vignettes don't seem to go anywhere. Some characters come and go without adding significantly to the story. Maybe that's the reason it felt like a slice of real life.

Laura Adams
Me Before You by Jojo Moyes

5
Great book. Liked her other book, ONE PLUS ONE, but loved this book. Would be a great book club book. Moral issues of assisted suicide and quality of life make for great discussions.

Jud Hanson
The Golden Crystal by Nick Thacker

3
An Indiana Jones-type novel that is worth a read if you like fast-moving plots.

Susan Kolodny
Still Alice by Lisa Genova

5
Fabulously written novel about early-onset Alzheimer's. Alice, a 50-year-old Harvard professor starts forgetting things. She suspects her failing memory may be due to menopause. When her neurologist diagnoses Alice with early-onset Alzheimer's she is in disbelief. This beautifully written novel is told from the voice of Alice, giving the reader the viewpoint of the patient. We see Alice get lost while running a route she ran daily. She must retire from her position at Harvard as her memory worsens and she is unable to remember her schedule. Genova writes how Alice's husband and three grown children are affected by her diagnosis and whether the kids should go through genetic testing. Humor is weaved into situations that Alice must face.

Francisca E B
Witness by Karen Hesse

3
3.5 stars. A novel in free verse lets eleven residents of a small town in Vermont bear witness to what happens when the Ku Klux Klan arrives in their town in 1924. Evocative and powerful. However, the odd syntax Hesse uses for six-year-old Esther’s voice is really off-putting. I dropped a half-star as a result.

Judy O.
An Event in Autumn by Henning Mankell

3
This novella was translated and published in 2013. It is another mystery for Inspector Kurt Wallander, about the time period when he is contemplating his retirement into a little house with a dog. As he is looking at a home that is on the market for him to buy, he literally trips over a skeletal hand sticking out of the ground in the home's yard. He immediately gets an investigation going to try to determine the identity of the skeletal remains. This was a quick read, but a fascinating one too. We will all miss new exploits for Kurt Wallander.

Jan Zahrly
Meet Me in Barcelona by Mary Carter

2
I expected more from this book. This is a convoluted love story about people who misunderstand each other along with a very insecure protagonist. I was so tired of her wavering. There is little new information about Barcelona that you could not get from the Internet. Boy and girl in love go to Barcelona, misunderstanding, old friend is mixed up with bad guy, tries to play a joke - it backfires.

Jud Hanson
Affliction Z: Patient Zero by L. T. Ryan

3
Book 1 of what looks to be a very entertaining series. Pretty much a pro-forma zombie plot but still worth a read.

Robin McKay
The Italian Letters by Dr. Linda Lambert

4
Anthropologist Dr. Justine Jenner, recently expelled from Egypt, pursues the truth behind the Cairo Codex, a diary written by the Virgin Mary. She has taken a job working with her father on a dig in Italy. The hope is to discover the origins of the ancient Etruscan people. Justine also discovers long-hidden love letters penned by D. H. Lawrence to her great-grandmother. Lawrence had his own opinion on the beliefs of the Etruscan culture. Now it is up to Justine to take these three events and weave them into a whole tapestry. Along the way, she is faced with the death of someone she holds dear, the betrayal of a friend and colleague, and the political machinations of the governments of Egypt, Italy and the Catholic Church.

Rhonda
The Whispers by Lisa Unger

5
The first in a series by Lisa Unger is sad, scary, and so good.

Jeffrey Tretin
First Impressions by Charlie Lovett

5
An excellent combination of historical fiction and detective work that moves back and forth easily between two time periods. It is a worthy addition to the genre of PRIDE AND PREJUDICE-inspired literature.

Karen Terry
The Bone Bed by Patricia Cornwell

5
I really enjoyed reading THE BONE BED. Dr Kay Scarpetta receives a video on her computer of an ear on a newspaper on a boat.This begin her investigation into a murder of a woman whose body is found under water. It grabs you in the beginning and doesn't let go until the end. I think it is one of her best.