This contest period's winners were Carroll S., Dorothy G., Jan G., Laura D. and Oswaldo R., who each received a copy of FEAR THE DARKNESS by Becky Masterman, THE GIRL ON THE TRAIN by Paula Hawkins, and SAINT ODD: An Odd Thomas Novel by Dean Koontz.
Thomas Barrington
Don't Give Up, Don't Give In by Louis Zamperini and David Rensin
I read this book and it found it to be interesting. It was motivational.
Hedi Hopwood
The Black Angel by John Connolly
I have found a new author. I have read the newer books in the series (Charlie Parker) and decided to go back and read the older ones. It explains a little about questions you might, have but for the most part you can read the individual books with great enjoyment as each contains a story all its own. I have about three left to read. These are mysteries with supernatural elements in them. Not all about angels, but the author apparently has done a great deal of research on each subject in the stories he tells.
Deborah Griffin
The Martian by Andy Weir
A wonderfully novel. I enjoyed the story of how to get an astronaut home. It was not too sci-fi or technical, just a lovely story about bringing an astronaut home who's stranded on Mars. I certainly hope this novel becomes a film. Reminds me of "Apollo 13" starring Tom Hanks.
Lynn Hough
The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin
This is a must read for all book lovers - you will love A.J. Fikry and the characters surrounding him. It's a short, quick read (partially because you won't want to put it down) but well worth the time and effort.
Lynn Hough
The Almost Moon by Alice Sebold
Although quite disturbing and difficult to read in places, this book held my interest. I wanted to keep reading to see how it ended (I didn't like the ending, but won't ruin for others).
Melissa Monahan
The Boys in the Boat by Daniel James Brown
Very inspiring story. I loved all the descriptions of places that were familiar to me having lived in Washington state all my life. My brother rowed in high school and college, so it was interesting to learn more about the sport. Such a great story, hard to believe it is all true.
Lynn Thomas
Ordinary Grace by William Kent Krueger
A wonderful multi-faceted saga of family life, joys, sorrows, and secrets. Krueger's 1950s Minnesota small town life comes alive and in color for those having yet to discover it. The young narrator is surprisingly reliable and likeable. Loved it!
Sara Myers
The Boy Who Drew Monsters by Keith Donohue
THE BOY WHO DREW MONSTERS is a great horror/thriller novel. It is about a boy, Jack Peter, who has Asperger's, and is an inside boy. Every since he almost drowned three years ago, he refuses to go outside for any reason. He has one friend, Nick, but it is a forced friendship. Jack has taken up drawing as a hobby, and no one but Nick seems to notice that there is more going on with the drawing that just art. The images pouring onto the pages from Jack's paper become real. As a horrific incident occurs, Jack has a terrifying secret to share with his mother. Her only response is to tell Jack to draw!
Therese Wiese
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
This a book of unlikeable people doing unlikable things. Took me a bit to really get into the book. Having said that, the plot twists and turns kept me totally fascinated, and I am glad I finally read the book!
Maureen McGee
Nora Webster by Colm Toibin
The author somehow inhabits the mind of a newly widowed Irish woman and allows us to experience her coming to terms with the "new normal" of her life.
Jan Zahrly
Hollyhock Summer by Pat Boulet
This debut book, despite its length, has some interesting concepts. It reads more like a memoir than a novel. The book jumps around in time but primarily covers the period after World War II for one family, and many extended family members. There are far too many coincidences to be believable but the goal seems to be, "They all lived happily ever after -- after they all suffered a bit." My key concern with this book is to whom it is directed. I don't know. At times it reads like girl teen lit and then sometimes it tries to get the adult reader. A good editor with a strong pencil would have greatly helped this book.
Dorothy Boyum
Full Steam Ahead by Karen Witemeyer
It was a good read but I didn't think outstanding. I could easily put the book down and pick it up.
Hope Clippinger
Alice in Zombieland by Gena Showalter
Great YA book. Glad it's a trilogy. Good character build and story development.
Patty wright
Calculated in Death by J.D.Robb
Love her books.
Barbara B
The All-Girls Filling Station's Last Reunion by Fannie Flagg
A very enjoyable and funny book that takes place in the present and flashes back to the WASPS, who flew during WWII. The characters have quite the personalities. A laugh-out-loud book.
Barbara Bocan
Gray Mountain by John Grisham
I really enjoyed this book which took place in Appalachia and dealt with coal mining and strip mining. My only objection was the protagonist, Samantha, she just seemed to be too shallow.
Barbara B
A Quilt for Christmas by Sandra Dallas
A very fast read with a very predictable ending. This novel was not as good as others by Sandra Dallas.
Shelley Babb
Crashing Streams of Change - Rise of World Government by Moulton Augustus Mayers
In the light of the unbelievable tsunami of trashy writing flooding the literary marketplace today, it is so heartening to finally read a book that treats life's complex questions and addresses issues that make you think for yourself--and for a long while. It crafts and depicts scenes that make you laugh yourself silly. This is a powerful tale of love and romance between an African American woman and a Jewish billionaire who, against all odds, defied the rules of love and marriage, subdued tremendous sociological barriers, and won the magnificent trophy of a lasting and fruitful marriage. Vannetta and Simeon can teach all of us quite a bit about love and success in marriage.
Heather
The Burning Room by Michael Connelly
Another great Harry Bosch mystery!
Kathy Fuchs
Finding Jake by Bryan Reardon
This was a gripping tale of every community's and, more importantly, every parent's worst nightmare. The psychological suspense was constant as the parents of a suspected school shooter wonder "what if" "what if" as they look back at every stage of their son's life, questioning where they went wrong, not knowing whether to believe what is being said of their son, and hating themselves for even momentarily doubting their son. The parents (and readers) don't know if the boy was a shooter or another victim as he can't be found. The internal impact on the family, as well as each individual family member, and their relationships with neighbors and community members is exceptionally well told. This is a book you will long remember.
Kathy Fuchs
Want You Dead by Peter James
This book grabbed me on the first page and kept me enthralled to the end of the last page. What a find!! Peter James is an excellent author with fully-developed and believable characters and keen storytelling skills. The story is told through the three main characters. The alternating voices, interesting storyline and the short chapters make you want to keep turning the pages to find out what happens next. I don't know how Peter James hasn't come to my attention before, but now that he has, I plan to read a lot more of his books!! He grabs your attention and never lets it go. If you're looking for a good, fast-paced book, this is it!!
Kathy Fuchs
One Step Too Far by Tina Seskis
I was given an advance reader's copy of this book by the publisher, William Morrow, in exchange for an honest review. The story interested me immediately in wondering what could have happened to make a woman walk away from her family, able to make a new life for herself yet always wondering about the past. What happened? Why didn't she feel able to go back? Why was her new persona so very different from her previous one? Why the need to change so drastically? And what happens when, through events, she is thrust back into her old life? How does everyone cope with that? The story is told through views into the past of her mother, her husband, her twin sister, the best friend in her new life and her own memories. Will surprise and satisfy!
laurie blum
Honeydew by Edith Pearlman
Beautiful collection of short stories.
Allison Gardner
The Forgotten Garden by Kate Morton
Very interesting.
LaVonne Switzer
The Pecan Man by Cassie Dandridge Selleck
A very southern story. The characters are heartwarming and the plot is tragic, yet inspiring. Readers will laugh, cry and feel as if they are neighbors of Mizz Beckwith. It's a story of family loyalty and undying friendship.
Kay Keller
Smoke Gets In Your Eyes & Other Lessons from the Crematory by Caitlin Doughty
A very informative book about a subject from whom most people shy away. Parts of the book are funny and parts are serious, but all of it is compelling. This book kept me reading into the night and thinking about it long after I finished reading.
Sharon
The Banks of Certain Rivers by Jon Harrison
I really liked this book from the very beginning. I highly recommend it. The characters are all so relatable and likable. I loved Neil. I was rooting for him the whole time and I even felt really bad for him. The synopsis says: In the lakeside resort town of Port Manitou, Michigan, dedicated teacher and running coach Neil Kazenzakis shoulders responsibilities that would break a lesser man: a tragic accident has left his wife seriously debilitated, he cares for his mother-in-law who suffers from dementia, and he’s raising his teenage son, Chris, on his own. On top of all that, he’s also secretly been seeing Lauren, his mother-in-law’s caregiver. It goes on to say more but this says it perfectly without revealing any spoilers.
Sandy McCullough
The Likeness by Tara French
This one took me a while to get into, but after I did I really enjoyed it. You have heard that we all have a double, but is our double enough alike that we can go into their home and live with four other people without them catching on? That is a real undercover job!
Bonnie Gluhanich
Us by David Nicholls
Wonderful novel about the life of a marriage as it falls apart, and the husband tries to put it back together.
Bonnie Gluhanich
Age of Ambition: Chasing Fortune, Truth, and Faith in the New China by Evan Osnos
This non-fiction account of China today won the National Book Award last year and rightfully so. If you want to know what makes China tick, how they've gotten where they are today, and what we need to know to compete, read this. It's also a fundamental immersion in the mindset of China's people today. Very readable.
Kannah Millano
Cinder by Marissa Meyer
It was abso-fantastic-lutely! AMAZING. To put it in a one short sentence, Marissa's first book in her Lunar Chronicles is a one hell of a good read. It's something you should not miss, and it'll never be a waste of your time.
Mona Garg
Lovesick by Spencer Seidel
Late one night, police come across a distraught and disoriented young man. The man is covered in blood and has a knife in his hand. Cradled in his lap is another young man, his throat cut, and also stained in blood. The man tells the police his name is Paul Ducharme and his friend's name is Lee. He tells the police that he thinks there is something wrong with his friend and asks for help. The police, thinking that Paul is the killer and mentally unstable, cuff him and take him into custody. Lisa Boyers, a forensic psychologist, is asked by an old acquaintance to speak with Paul because he can't recall the events leading up to the murder.
Denise
The Yellow Eyes of Crocodiles by Katherine Pancol
What a world Pancol creates! So many lovely and believable characters. As timid and scholarly Jo ghostwrites a book for her glamorous sister, Jo finds her own voice. The reader is at home in France and England and Africa, in modern-day and in the 12th century. This book is a joy to read, and will draw readers in from start to finish.
Beth settje
SuperFreakonomics by Steven D. Levitt and Stephen Dubner
Excellent follow-up to the original entry in the series. The authors are unbiased as they navigate complex economic issues. I disliked economics in college, but really like these books. They approach economics from a sociological perspective, which makes it very interesting to read and process.
Izella Cadwallader
Killing Patton by Bill O'Reilly
His fourth book but not quite as good as KILLING KENNEDY. Men will certainly enjoy it, especially if they are veterans.
Crystal Blackburn
The Cat Who Went Bananas by Lilian Jackson Braun
More mystery and adventure with Qwill and his cats Koko and Yum Yum, 400 miles north of everywhere.
Crystal Blackburn
The Cat Who Sniffed Glue by Lilian Jackson Braun
Qwill and his cats, Koko and Yum Yum, find mystery and mild adventure 400 miles north of everywhere.
Laurie Christensen
She's Leaving Home by William Shaw
She's Leaving Home is the title of a Beatle's hit and also a debut thriller from William Shaw. It's the 1960s and the height of Beatlemania when a young fan leaves home and is later found dead near Abbey Road. Enter Paddy Breen and Helen Tozer, both cops with troubled family histories. With side trips into the Biafran Civil War, Shaw weaves a thriller complete with solid police procedural work, crooked cops, murder, racism, sexism and colonialism. The plot is crisp and the characters well drawn. It is so refreshing to delve into an intelligent well written thriller that doesn't dissolve into unbelievable plots with characters that defy even the most vivid imaginations. Published in the UK as A SONG FROM DEAD LIPS.
Becky
The Mockingbird Next Door by Marja Mills
This is the story of the Lee sisters, Alice, a practicing lawyer beyond her 100th birthday, and Nelle, the author of the American classic novel "To Kill a Mockingbird". This is a very mild tale of the friendship among the author and the two women. I enjoyed it very much as it revealed small things about the reclusive Nelle as told to Mills by her long time friends.
Cathy Larese
Delicious! by Ruth Reichl
Brings to me so many feelings and emotions while I read this book. I wanted to go to the places mentioned, taste the recipes and get to know the characters on a level I didn't know I could.
Linda Reck
The Rosie Effect by Graeme Simsion
Don Tillman and Rosie Jarman are back. The Wife Project is complete and Don and Rosie are happily married and living in New York. But they're about to face a new challenge because Rosie is pregnant. Rosie does not think Don is a good candidate for a father. Graeme Simsion portrays that tension beautifully. Rosie and Don need to overcome obstacles to find true love again. This book is cute, but it's not cheesy. It's extremely funny and clever, but it was too much like THE ROSIE PROJECT for me. The books were too similar in tone. Graeme Simsion does pull it off, though.
Marcia Sailer
Moloka'i by Alan Brennert
I loved this novel about Rachel Kalama, who at seven years old was relinquished to the quarantined leper colony Moloka'i of the Hawaiian islands. Her story is sometimes heartbreaking, and yet amazing. I learned so much about Moloka'i, the Hawaiian history and culture, and Hansen's Disease itself. Rachel's strength through her ordeal is inspiring. To be torn from her family, and then lose those she comes to love on the island as the disease takes them through the years, is somewhat dark. However, her light and determination persevere. That's not to say she doesn't have very bleak moments. The book's a bit long, but well worth the read.
Stacey K
Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins
Great ending to the Hunger Games trilogy. I can't wait to see part 2 of the finale.
Stacey K
All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr
Fabulous book about a German boy and a blind French girl during World War II. One of the best books I have read in a long time.
Thomas Barrington
A No Good Itch by S.D. Skye
It was a good read. It is a kind of book I usually don't read, but it was good.
Devanne DiBacco
The Light Between Oceans by M. L. Stedman
Incredibly moving and engaging. This novel tells the story of Tom Sherbourne and his wife Isabel, who marry and move to Janus Rock, where Tom becomes lightkeeper. After a few miscarriages, Isabel is convinced she can never bear Tom a child. One day, a boat washes upon shore carrying inside a dead man and a living baby. Isabel instantly adopts the child and names her Lucy. When Lucy is 2, the Sherbourne's return to the mainland, and this choice ends up being a devastating one. You won't be able to put this book down, and after you do, it will stick with you.
Amanda mullins
The Rosie Effect by Graeme Simsion
I loved THE ROSIE PROJECT! The characters are back for THE ROSIE EFFECT, and I love the quirkiness of their relationships! Very well written.
Marian Collins
Still Alice by Lisa Genova
This was a very emotional book and I couldn't put it down. It will stick with me for a long time.
Gloria Pauline
The Accidental Bestseller by Wendy Wax
Recently discovered one of this author's books I hadn't read yet, THE ACCIDENTAL BESTSELLER. This 2009 offering gave me a few surprises. It's about four author friends who find themselves writing a book about four author friends and along the way revealing "insider stuff" about the publishing industry. I was delighted to discover mention of none other than Carol Fitzgerald early on and later HGTV. I'm fans of both. I know I like a book when at some point I think, " this would make a great movie." While there are still "so many books", at least since I retired, now I have a little more time to read them. This was a pleasure.
Trude Vandine
Dead No More by L.R. Nicolello
Excellent second novel by Ms. Nicolello. Good blend of romance and suspense with likable characters and a story that grabs you.
Gail Satterthwaite
All The Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr
Very good descriptions of life in Germany and France during World War II. Well written.
Nancy Coughlin
The Time Machine by H.G. Wells
Our book club choice for January, and I thoroughly enjoyed this fantastic classic science fiction book. A wonderful re-read if you read it years ago as I had.
Esther Whatley
The House of Wolfe by James Carlos Blake
Gritty, mean, dirty, fast-paced. There is no fluff here, just a great story about some really bad guys doing some really bad stuff. Now I want to catch up on the Wolfe books I haven't read yet. Very entertaining.
Carole Clark
Magic Hour by Kristin Hannah
This isn't a new book, but I had it sitting on my shelf and finally read it. It was so good! A "wild child" has been found sitting in a tree at the town park. A child psychologist has taken over the care of this young girl, who was believed to have been living with wolves. The story is all about how the girl was learning to live with people.
Barbara Kirch
Murder and Mendelssohn by Kerry Greenwood
This is the latest in the Phryne Fisher Mysteries by Australian author Kerry Greenwood. The Miss Fisher Murder Mysteries TV shows are based on the books, which take place in Australia during the late 1920s. Having traveled to Australia numerous times, I enjoy that the adventures take place in areas I have visited.
sue spencer
Come Home by Lisa Scottoline
I haven't read any of her books before and I really liked this one. It made you ask yourself, "What would I do?" I will read more by this author.
Debbie Smith
The Silver Star by Jeannette Walls
I was a bit disappointed in this book as I loved her first two books so much, HALF BROKE HORSES and THE GLASS CASTLE. This book was about two girls with a wannabe music star mother, who made bad choices and left the girls to their own devices many times. Kind of reminded me of the "Flowers in the Attic" series without all the madness. If you just want a fun read without much depth, give it a go.
shelly itkin
Turn Key Condition by M. L. Ortega
Maggie, a divorced, mother of three children willing to do almost anything to earn extra money. In addition to her regular job, she makes wedding cakes, sells things on ebay and helps her good fried Jane in her cleaning business. Maggie is going to help Jane clean the model homes one night when the come across a dead man. Maggie finds him in the bedroom completely naked except for a donut (not the kind you eat) over his genitals. She remembers Mitch Thompson one time and knows who he is immediately. After calling the police to report the crime, she is introduced to Fortunado Rocha, who is know to his friends as “Tuna.” They form a rather close friendship.
Pat Caron
Doing Harm by Kelly Parsons
Medical thriller that keeps you guessing until the end. I loved it.
Miriam Boots
Bring Up the Bodies by Hilary Mantel
This book is the second in the Thomas Cromwell saga and deals with Anne Boleyn's fall from favor in Henry the VIII's court. Well researched and well written, I liked it but was not as engaged in the story as I hoped to be.
Joyce Delaney
Sometimes The Wolf by Urban Waite
This book lives up to all of the good things I'd read about it. It's a story of forgiveness, betrayal, and long-held secrets wrapped in a gripping tale about the search for missing drug money. I read it non-stop and then was sorry I'd gone through it so quickly.
Darlene Money
A Sudden Light by Garth Stein
A ghost story and a family story covering several generations with emphasis on the present. Preservation of forests of the U.S. Northwest an important theme. Engaging fourteen-year-old boy is most sensitive to the ghosts. His name is Trevor, and his nickname Clever Trevor is appropriate.
Darlene Money
The Secret Place by Tana French
This is the best Tana French novel yet, which is really saying something, because the others are so good. Two detectives, one seeking experience in order to advance his career, the other under something of a cloud, try to solve the murder of a teenage boy from a boys' residential school on the grounds of a nearby girls' residential school. Getting the truth from the girls who knew the boy proves a huge task, as they have their own agendas, needing to protect their secrets and the secrets of their friends. Complicating the investigation is the intervention of another highly regarded detective whose daughter is one of the girls involved.
Darlene Money
I Am Pilgrim by Terry Hayes
Intricately plotted yet always clear, a hugely suspense story of an intelligence agent trying to track down and destroy the scheme of a terrorist who has manufactured a deadly virus and plans to release it all over the U.S.
Darlene Money
Dr. Sleep by Stephen King
One of King's better novels, this was, of course, highly suspenseful. Danny, the boy in THE SHINING, has grown up and become an alcoholic like his father. In the course of the novel he finds AA and puts his life right. But he still has his psychic power and becomes acquainted with a girl with much more power than his. They join forces to put an end to a group of seemingly harmless elderly travelers in RVs, who are actually not human and who feed on the essence of people, especially children, who are psychically gifted.
norene wittlin
James Madison American Prophet by Duane L. Ostler
Really terrible. The author idolizes his subject but the book is awful.
kathy Vallee
Sprinkle with Murder by Jenn McKinlay
This is the first time I have read this author's work. Melanie Cooper and Angie DeLaura are the half owners of the Fairy Tale Cupcakes company. Someone is waging a war against them.
Judy McGee
The Virgin in the Ice by Ellis Peters
This is the sixth book in the Brother Cadfael series. Set in the 12th century, Brother Cadfael must solve the question of who murdered a young girl while trying to find and protect a brother and sister.
Phyllis Relyea
Lila by Marilynne Robinson
Oh, how I enjoyed this lovely book written only as Ms. Robinson can! I had read her previous books and Lila was written as a prequel, but I enjoyed Lila so much more! The unusual style of writing was as through composed with no chapters or time to breathe. It kept me reading far into the night as I also lived and breathed this beautiful descriptive life.
Melanie S.
Eat Move Sleep by Tom Rath
Ultra-basic book about making better health choices. There was very little new here. If you are embarking on making healthy changes in your life for the very first time then this might be interesting to you.
Lori Bednaz
Good Kings Bad Kings by Susan Nussbaum
As an older special needs teacher who started during segregation, I found the book disturbing and enjoyable at the same time. I did a lot of head nodding.
Patricia Sanders
The Beige Man by Helene Tursten
This is the newest in a Swedish detective series featuring Detective Inspector Irene Huss. I really enjoy this series, and this new title does not disappoint. It involves the world of sex trafficking and is full of international players.
Leslie Morrison
In the Blood by Lisa Unger
A compelling, dark psychological thriller told through college student Lana’s first-person narrative. Lana is a girl with a troubled past. Her father was convicted of murder – she barely remembers her parents and what happened the horrible night her mother died. With secrets of her own and a desire to get a fresh start in a place where no one knows her past, she is likely an unreliable narrator. This fast-paced, well-plotted novel never slows down and keeps the reader guessing straight through to the riveting conclusion and a series twists – one that I almost didn’t see coming.
Leslie Morrison
The Future of the Mind by Michio Kaku
Science meets science fiction in this fascinating, informative, and highly readable book. We begin with some background on the brain – how it works, what scientists already know, past research, and some interesting case studies. Then we move on to current research. Most interesting to me, and probably to many of us, was the section on the growing problem of dementia in an aging population and its implications for the future. Finally, we move on to speculation of what the future might bring. If only I were born a few decades later so I could live long enough to see it! Yes, this is a book about neuroscience, but author Michio Kaku’s interesting and enthusiastic writing style makes it accessible to everyone.
Elaine Beierbach
Saint Odd by Dean Koontz
I love Odd Thomas.
Dennis Beierbach
Saint Odd by Dean Koontz
This my first Odd Thomas book. Now I go back to the first.
Cherylee Monmaney
Bones Never Lie by Kathy Reichs
Another strong story. You don't want to put it down.
Cherylee Monmaney
Rivival by Stephen King
Thought-provoking. King only gets better.
Sheree combs
The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
Excellent story. The story kept your on the edge of your seat to see what was going to happen next. I was even dreaming about the storyline in my sleep. How anyone lived during that time was inspiring. I will definitely recommend this book - it gets under your skin.
Jackie Ranaldo
Everything I Never Told You by Celeste Ng
Fabulous writing. I was so impressed and can't wait to read anything else she may have already written (or hopefully working on her next).
Catherine Martin
The Pecan Man by Cassie Dandridge Selleck
A short but intense novel set in the South in 1976. Summed up in the phrase, "Don't judge a book by its cover". Well-developed characters with whom the reader can become friends with.
Linda Harrison
Rain on the Dead by Jack Higgins
Sean Dillon and Sara Gideon are in the right place at the right time as they save former President Jake Cazalet from assassination at his Nantucket home. The would-be assassins are killed and are found to be Chechens. As leads are followed, Sean realizes they are up against the infamous manipulator known as The Master, who works for al-Qaeda. This man must be found and taken out, and it is up to Sean and Sara.
Linda Harrison
What the Duke Desires by Sabrina Jeffries
Maximilian Cale, the Duke of Lyons, received word from Tristan Bonnaud that he had found his brother and to meet him. When Tristan never showed, Max came to Manton’s Investigations and ran into Tristan’s sister Lisette. They hatched a plan to travel as a married couple to France to find Tristan. They never intended to fall in love but Max was determined to marry her and just had to talk some sense into her.
Linda Harrison
A Cowboy for Christmas by Lori Wilde
Lissette Moncrief was a war widow with a child who was slowly going deaf. As if this were not bad enough, she found that her husband had left his insurance proceeds to his half-brother Rafferty Jones and not Lissette and their son Kyle. Although she needed the money, she refused help from Rafferty, until she found a tape that her husband Jake had left for her. He realized that the war had changed him and he was not good for Lissette or Kyle. He left the money to Rafferty knowing that Rafferty would take care of Lissette and Kyle. He also hoped that Lissette and Rafferty would fall in love with each other.
Linda Harrison
Firewall by DiAnn Mills
Taryn Young is at the airport with her new husband when a bomb goes off. When she comes to in the hospital, she is greeted by the FBI who believe that she and her husband are responsible for the blast. The deeper into the investigation he gets, FBI agent Grayson Hall believes in her innocence. Evidence points to the software developed by Taryn, which the bad guys want access to. Who is behind the bombing and assassinations? Some feel it is Iran while others think Russia.
Linda Harrison
Christmas in the Billionaire’s Bed by Janice Maynard
Ten years after Aidan Kavanagh left England and returned to America, he runs into Emma Braithwaite in the small town in North Carolina where his family lived. Although he felt a sexual pull toward Emma, he couldn’t trust her as she had thrown him over for another man in England. Emma still loved Aidan and had left England after learning that her father had tried to break up their romance. She could still see the boy she fell in love with through the stern exterior that Aidan presented to everyone. How could she break through Aidan’s iciness and let him know there was still a chance for them?
Linda Harrison
Ultimate Sins by Lora Leigh
Young women are being killed in Corbin County, Kentucky, and the killer has been dubbed The Slasher. The women being targeted seem to be those closest to the Callahan cousins. Wayne Sorenson has always seemed to act on the side of the cousins but his daughter Amelia finds incriminating evidence that Wayne is not all he seems to be. She goes to Crowe Callahan with the evidence. Could Wayne be The Slasher or know who the killer is?
Linda Harrison
The Christmas Ranch & A Cold Creek Holiday by RaeAnne Thayne
In THE CHRISTMAS RANCH, Hope Nichols returns home to Pine Gulch, Idaho with the hope of seeing her family ranch all decorated up for the holidays. She is upset when she sees the sign “Closed Indefinitely”. Telling her family it will be her job to get the Christmas Ranch ready for its visitors, she doesn’t realize how large the job is and is glad Rafe Santiago is there to help. In A COLD CREEK HOLIDAY, Emery Kendall has arrived at the Hope Springs Guest Ranch for a quiet Christmas. She has not counted on the two cute girls she meets who are desperate for attention. Their uncle Nate Cavavos has retired from the military to care for them. He takes one look at Emery and determines she is a city girl and has no business there.
Fran OH
Year of No Sugar by Eve O. Schaub
There was a lot I liked about this book. First and foremost, the author does an excellent job of portraying exactly how much sugar is in the American diet, and how many foods it was hidden in. I enjoyed her commitment to the project but sometimes got bored with her obsessions over it. I almost felt bad for her kids at times. Next, the author portrays the immense social pressure Americans face regarding food. As someone who attempts to eat healthy, I know all too well the pressure there is to have that dessert or special treat. That being said, I felt the book was a bit repetitive and I wished the author went into whether she experienced any positive health effects of her food plan. Did she lose weight, feel better, etc.?
Deb Philippon
Unravelled by Anna Scanlon
The story of a young WWII holocaust survivor. Deserves to be read.
Muriel Logan
All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr
The language of the book is beautiful and poetic, even as it is filled with scientific information. I could easily picture people and places. Mr. Doerr put me in the middle of WWII showing once again the disruption, hurt, and fear experienced by people thrown in its midst. As with any book about war, the reader would choose different endings for characters he/she has come to care about.
Crystal Blackburn
The Cat Who Dropped a Bombshell by Lilian Jackson Braun
There are more mysterious happenings in Moose County, 400 miles north of everywhere. Qwill is again joined by Koko and Yum Yum.
Marsha
All Day and a Night by Alafair Burke
NYPD Detective Ellie Hatcher and her partner are tapped to take a "fresh look" at a conviction of a criminal that may have been charged with the wrong crime. Ellie has moved in with the ADA who is prosecuting the case. This obviously becomes a bit of a problem. There are a few red herrings, but you may be able to spot the real killer if you are an avid crime thriller reader.
Suzy Missirlian
Under Your Skin by Sabine Durrant
This book will keep you guessing until the very last page.
Suzy Missirlian
The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin
An absolutely delightful book! It's quirky, funny, sad and magical. I loved every single page of this wonderful book. Can't recommend enough.
denise beierbach
Saint Odd by Dean Koontz
Odd is so cute, yet his world is scary.
Laura Beierbach
Saint Odd by Dean Koontz
I always tell my friends about Odd Thomas. I have the one movie.
Francisca E B
Corduroy Mansions by Alexander McCall Smith
Audiobook performed by Simon Prebble. This is an ensemble piece providing a slice-of-life look at the residents of Corduroy Mansions, the nickname given to a block of mansions in a London Pimlico neighborhood. It’s not plot-driven but character-driven; the “action” is the kind of action most of us have in our everyday lives: a date here, a visit with a brother there, a stressful job, a new car, a dog that chews your favorite shoes, etc. I thought it was charming and enjoyable. A nice light read with characters I (mostly) liked. I’m reminded of Armistead Maupin’s TALES OF THE CITY series.
Betty Ramsey
Deadline by John Sandford
Virgil Flowers, a detective with the Minnesota BCA, gets a call from a good friend wanting him to investigate the dog-napping going on is his town. After some arguing, he agrees to go, thus beginning a non-stop whee of a book. Before he knows it, that "you know what" Flowers is knee deep in meth labs and school boards and plenty of action. One of Sandford's best...a great read!
Rosa
The Life I Left Behind by Colette McBeth
In this psychological thriller, Colette McBeth tells the story of two women: Melody, who survived an attack six years ago and has lived her life so cautiously since then, and Eve, who is murdered soon after Melody's convicted killer is freed after completing his prison sentence. Told in alternating chapters from the perspective of Melody, Eve, and the detective who is investigating Eve's murder, the story unravels to show that perhaps the wrong man has been accused. McBeth's writing kept me thoroughly engaged, propelling me forward after the end of each chapter. Highly recommend.
Elizabeth Graham
The Escape by David Baldacci
A great book.
Michael McAdam
Sovereign by C.J. Sansom
I was never a fan of historical fiction until a friend of mine gave me a handful of books. (I originally asked for recommendations which she took to mean "bring me a bunch of books"), which included this one - the 3rd book in a VERY engaging series about an attorney under the reign of Henry VIII. The mysteries are so riveting and the way of life at that time is also fascinating. I highly recommend this series (at least the first 3 books - I haven't read the others yet). Thumbs up!
Judith Sortino
A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman
A MAN CALLED OVE is a subtly humorous novel that has excellent character development. It was the best book that I read this summer.
Simonne
Me Before You by Jojo Moyes
Terrific novel about a quirky gal and a headstrong quadriplegic. The effect they have on each other and the choices made make for compelling reading. 5 stars from the entire book club.
Simonne
Mrs. Kimble by Jennifer Haigh
A sometimes disturbing novel about three different women married to the same man at different times. The disturbing part was the effect on the women and especially the children. Although the husband was the unifying character, we never get to understand what makes him tick. A great ending and definitely worth reading.
Donna Shaw
The Mill River Redemption by Darcie Chan
A mother and two young daughters lose their home in a fire and move to live with an aunt living in a small town in Vermont. As the years pass, the sisters are inseparable, but a tragedy results in their becoming estranged and filled with hatred. Their mother devises a plan to try to reconcile the girls.
Bobbie Davis
The Children Act by Ian Mc Ewan
Mixed reviews. Interesting decisions.
Jeanette Mateer
Cutting for Stone by Abraham Verghese
What a storyteller. I loved this book but find it difficult to say why. The characters seemed real and believable, descriptions allowed me to visualize the story, the historical setting lent to the realism, and the medical information was fascinating. Our book group gave CUTTING FOR STONE a 10 out of 10.
mary moreno
The Dead Will Tell by Linda Castillo
This is the 6th book in the series featuring a former Amish person as chief of police. The entire series is fast-paced and engrossing.
Crystal Blackburn
The Cat Who Went Up the Creek by Lilian Jackson Braun
More mystery and murder 400 miles north of everywhere. Qwill and his cats Koko and Yum Yum have more adventures.
Martha Brown
The Boston Girl by Anita Diamant
This retired library media specialist would have enjoyed book-talking this accessible read to high school students, especially those required to read historical fiction. The narrator of the story is an 85-year-old grandmother who is telling her granddaughter the story of her life. Born to Russian immigrant parents in Boston, she is introduced to a new world through joining a library group at a settlement house. Despite the efforts of her unhappy mother, she is able to break out of the family lifestyle and live a good life. This was such a good look at the expectations and boundaries set on women of my mother's period. I don't think this book had the same impact on me as THE RED TENT, but I did really like it.
Jan Zahrly
The Silkworm by Robert Galbraith
Wow! What a writer! After Harry Potter, I assumed Rowling could not improve but she is doing so with the Robert Galbraith books. This is the second book with Cormoran Strike, private investigator, illegitimate son of a famous aging rock star, and employer of a lovely detective/wanna-be secretary/assistant/detective-in-training. Strike is hired by a wife to find her missing husband, a dubious author. There are obstacles everywhere and conflicting stories about the missing man. Strike not only finds the murdered man, horribly mutilated, but is the only one who believes the wife did NOT kill him. The police eventually arrest the wife for murder and Strike works, without pay, to find the real killer.
Joanne Vanjonack
A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman
Unusual, fun, and heartwarming!
Chrisi Dimoff
Mystical Emona by Ronesa Aveela
I just finished MYSTICAL EMONA and was captivated by the story. The hypnotizing spell of Emona and the wild Samodivi is sure to please any avid reader as the story unfolds to reveal a nicely-bound ending. Great book.
Thomas Barrington
The Burning Room by Michael Connelly
I enjoyed reading this very much. I have read all the Bosch novels and liked every one.
Tery Beal
Black Diamonds by Catherine Bailey
Downton Abbey is back and new is BLACK DIAMONDS and it is a terrific read on the downfall of a British aristocratic family. The research is impressive. Highly recommend.
Marsha
The Supreme Macaroni Company by Adriana Trigiani
This is a charming novel featuring a big Italian family. One finds love, one finds a new career, and many more find happiness just being among the others. It is written with humor and warmth, and the characters become very real.
Lynn Hough
Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell
I truly enjoyed this YA novel - a love story between two teenagers finding their true inner selves. It gave you a look into the lives of those being bullied, but not your typical "I will overcome it" kind of story. More of an acceptance of it and getting through life in spite of it. I wanted a different ending, but that just would have been sappy and so unlike ELEANOR & PARK. They are far from a sappy couple so I guess it ended how it should have.
Brenda K.
Twenties Girl by Sophie Kinsella
I read this book because it was my group's monthly read. I found the story fun reading and lighthearted. The emotions of the characters were true-to-life. This book helped this reader to relax and escape daily life. I will seek out this author again in the future.
Rezina Emmons
Round Ireland with a Fridge by Tony Hawks
Easy enjoyable read. Ireland seems to be one big community that opens its arms and homes to strangers. Tony's descriptions of Ireland and the people make me want to visit.
Heather Johanning
Up at Butternut Lake by Mary McNear
A great read which compelled me to turn page after page. Mary has a gift of developing her characters to the point that I feel I know them and I'm personally invested in their happiness. In this first of her trilogy, I ate up the outcomes of her layered plots, yet she left me definatley wanting to read her next book to know about what happens next to the characters I grew to care about!
Janet P Bedell
Orphan Train by Christina Baker Kline
A wonderfully written historical fiction novel.
Casey Hughes
Love & Ordinary Creatures by Gwyn Hyman Rubio
A very different book narrated by a parrot named Caruso. He is owned by a girl named Clarissa. He is very much in love with Clarissa and is very jealous of her. When a new guy enters her life, he shows his jealousy and does different things to win back her affection. Clarissa thinks she can solve the problem by getting Caruso a companion, a female parrot. Maybe not a good idea.
Elaine Baxter
The Winter People by Jennifer McMahon
If you like stories about murder and missing people, this book will keep you turning the pages long after you should have turned off the light.
Judy O.
All Fall Down by Jennifer Weiner
Allison Weiss is a pain pill addict. Her life spirals out of control, and she eventually ends up in rehab. This is her story. What a well-written story! It sure shows how insidiously such an addiction gets out of hand and what an impact it has on all aspects of life.
Sandy McCullough
The Beach House by Georgia Bockoven
Very easy read with short chapters. Predictable plot though. There are others I have enjoyed more.
Sandy McCullough
The Ice Princess by Camilla Lackberg
Lots of twists and turns to this plot, and I enjoyed it very much.
Lynn W
The Painted House by John Grisham
Picking cotton in the 50s was hard work for adults. For a 7-year-old boy it was miserable. Thank goodness there were Mexicans and "hill people" to help, but clashing cultures and tempers hotter than the temperature created situations a little boy had no business witnessing. My book club thought the title should have been SINS AND SECRETS.
Lynn W
Mercy Falls by William Kent Krueger
Cork O'Connor #5. The book begins with someone's hired gun trying to take out Sheriff O'Connor, shooting his deputy instead. The book ends with a half-million-dollar bounty on his head. Good stuff in between, but confound it -- the rest of the story is in the next installment!
Tessa B C
Every Crooked Nanny by Kathy Hogan Trocheck
This is a good start to a mystery series. Callahan is a strong central character; her previous experience as a cop and private detective makes this more than the typical cozy. Yes, we still have a cast of colorful characters in her house-cleaning crew, and her mother, Edna, who is also her business partner, provides a nice counterbalance. It was fast-paced, entertaining and kept me turning pages. I’d definitely be up for trying another in the series.
Lauren Bailey
Rooms by Lauren Oliver
Definitely not what I was expecting. The writing quality was poor. The storyline was mediocre at best. It was not truly a ghost story or a haunting. Too many unnecessary and flat characters.
Francisca E B
Peril at End House by Agatha Christie
Hercule Poirot mystery # 8 has the “retired” detective on holiday with his friend Hastings at the Cornish seaside town of St. Loo. A mystery lands in their laps when a young heiress admits that she’s had several near misses in the last few days. This is a fine example of the kinds of puzzling cases Christie is so good at crafting, with a large cast of colorful characters and quite a few plot twists. On the whole, a fast and entertaining read.
Vikki Cabral
The Other Typist by Suzanne Rindell
Listened to this on audio book. Psychological suspense set in New York City in the prohibition years. Enjoyed it.
Thomas Barrington
Head of State by Andrew Marr
The book was interesting, but it was not a real good read.
Chris Noe
The Forgotten by David Baldacci
I discovered this book by accident. I am a Baldacci fan, but had not read the John Puller books. I will definitely go back and read ZERO DAY and can't wait to read THE ESCAPE. John Puller is now one of my favorite characters (right up there with Lucas Davenport and Virgil Flowers). The story is excellent and was about the trafficking of human beings, something horrific, but interesting. The characters were very interesting and the dialog believable. I have already recommended this book to friends.
Wendy Zuckerberg
The Ship of Brides by Jojo Moyes
Great premise, but uninspiring story.
Jennifer Petito
Leaving Montana by Thomas Whaley
Great book for discussion. Going to meet author with my book club next month.
Sharon Lumb
Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel
This is a work of science fiction which was written for individuals such as myself who do not normally enjoy this genre. It starts with the play King Lear with the title role played by a famous actor. The remainder of the book takes place from before the play until twenty years after the play. At first this was a bit confusing, but I realized this non-linear progression kept me focused. I found the story to be very realistic. After finishing the book, I did have the desire to add a few cases of bottled water in our pantry.
Susan Myers
The Invention of Wings by Sue Monk Kidd
THE INVENTION OF WINGS was a wonderful story about a young girl who receives her personal slave, Handful, for her 11th birthday. The book follows both women through their extraordinary lives, as Sarah Grimsky grows up to become a noted female abolitionist. This book was an excellent read and is a great book club choice.
Kathy Fuchs
The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion
This book is very engaging from start to finish. The characters are fully and wonderfully drawn. I love how Don comes to recognize that he has Asperger's, and his willingness to change himself so that he can share his life with someone. He carefully writes out a questionnaire to find the perfect mate and learns that sometimes the perfect person for you isn't what you expected at all. A thoughtful, heartwarming story. Well done!!
Carol S.
The Invention of Wings by Sue Monk Kidd
Great historical fiction set in early nineteenth century Charleston.
Becky
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
This is a wonderful American classic, and the themes from this 1960 novel fit in well with today's news headlines.
Becky
The Mockingbird Next Door: Life with Harper Lee by Marja Mills
Marja Mills moved to the town of Monroeville, Alabama, where she was able to speak to Harper Lee and her older sister, Alice. Much is made of small town southern life where the four Lee children grew up. Marja, Alice, and Harper spent time driving around country roads, fishing, drinking coffee together. It does not seem that Ms. Mills intruded into the lives of the sisters as much as being invited to share time and stories from the Lees and townspeople who have known the family for a long time. No big reveals here, just a pleasant trip through time. I suggested this book as a discussion book when I learned that many of the 9 ladies in my group had not read TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD. Harper Lee's book then became our January read.
Sheldon Friedman
Killing Kennedy by Bill O'Reilly
Fast-moving, fact-based story of the end of Camelot as the result of John Kennedy's assassination.
Carol Custer
Revival by Stephen King
Loved this book! Stephen King at his best!
Sherri Hines
Praying for Strangers by River Jordan
Best book I have read in a long while. The author's account of the results of a resolution to pray for one stranger a day inspires me to focus outward and value day-to-day encounters with people and recognize how my actions/thoughts can make a difference. It is a non-fiction counterpoint to THE NOTICER, which also made me think along these lines. I think this is her first non-fiction book, and I'm not sure how it compares to her fiction works.
Laura Adams
Cinder by Marissa Meyer
Interesting read about futuristic world told from the view of a young girl (cyborg) with a Cinderella twist. It is the first of a four book series, "The Lunar Chronicles" (only three are currently printed).
Laura Adams
Scarlet by Marissa Meyer
The second book in the four book "The Lunar Chronicles" series. This book is split between the first book's narrator ,Cinder, and a new character, Scarlet. An interesting read, but not as good as the first book CINDER.
Laura Adams
Deep Down Dark: The Untold Stories of 33 Men Buried in a Chilean Mine, and the Miracle that Set Them Free by Hector Tobar
Great true story of the Chilean men trapped in a mine for 69 days. It was hard to keep all of the different men straight in my mind but an excellent look at how people handle an almost certain death experience and how their celebrity status afterwards affects each one.
Laura Adams
Forever Christmas by Robert Tate Miller
Quick, sentimental Christmas read. Husband takes wife for granted and they grow apart in their marriage. Then he receives a miracle after his wife is killed by being allowed to do over their last three days together. Won't spoil the ending but it is an emotional, feel-good read.
John Warner
Mr. Churchill's Secretary by Susan Elia Macneal
The premiere mystery in the Maggie Hope series is a fast read and does not bog down a moment. The author's uses enough detail in the plot development to easily transport the reader to early WWII Britain, especially during the Blitz. The inclusion of MI-5, the Irish Republican Army and espionage ratchets this novel up from simply a cozy mystery.
Karen Petkun
The Boston Girl by Anita Diamant
Nice narrative. Heartwarming. Not much plot, though.
laurie blum
Honeydew by Edith Pearlman
Excellent book of twenty new short stories, some as brief as ten pages, which are equally as well written as those by Anton Chekov and Alice Munro. Very enjoyable change from long literary fiction novels .. brava!
Jayme Gruden
Prince Lestat by Anne Rice
As a huge fan of the Vampire Chronicles I am glad that I read Prince Lestat, but I can’t say that it was a great read. If this is your first introduction to Lestat and the Undead, I think you will be disappointed. There really isn’t a story here – just a cast of magnificently dressed characters from previous books who all want love, but have a nasty habit of sucking the life blood out of people, too. I think there were seven pages of actual vampirey stuff. The rest of the book seemed like a propaganda pamphlet for the Undead. It really is too bad that Prince Lestat isn’t as good as the first book INTERVIEW WITH THE VAMPIRE, but you have to give Rice her props. After all, she was the one who started our current vampire craze.
Julie towson
Edge of Eternity by Ken Follett
A wonderful way to brush up on the historic moments of the last century. I thoroughly enjoyed the three book series starting at the beginning of the 20th century and ending at the beginning of the 21st. In this book, the author introduces us to several families. One from the USA, one from the Soviet Union, one from Great Britain, and one from Germany. They are all placed in the novel in crucial times and with influential people of the last century, almost like Forrest Gump. A great read!
Janice Hoaglin
The Code of the Hills by Nancy Allen
This is the first book in a series that is set in the Ozark Mountains, and features a woman who is a prosecutor, absorbed in cases where domestic violence and child sexual abuse are the norm. While I did not always like this central character, I think she was probably fairly realistically drawn. And many aspects of the story ring true. I did like the author's inclusion of incidents that illustrated that these issues happen across economic classes and are not just problems among the poor. I am planning to read the next in the series.
Kirsten Grier
Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty
This book was such a great read. Liane Moriarty really "gets it" when it comes to writing about women's lives. She understands the dynamics and relationships of families, marriages, and friendships. Her books always inject some humor which makes me laugh out loud. This particular story is about a murder mystery, although you don't find out who is murdered until the last quarter of the book. Each chapter includes parents from an elementary school talking to the police or a reporter about a murder that happened at a school function in a well-to-do area of California overlooking the ocean. The chapters are told from the perspective of different people involved in the murder somehow. I could not put the book down and read it in 4 days.
Linda Reck
Serena by Ron Rash
The year is 1929 and newlyweds George and Serena Pemberton travel from Boston to the North Carolina mountains where they plan to create a lumber empire. Serena is new to the mountains but soon shows herself to be the equal of any man. Together they plan to vanquish all who fall out of favor. Prior to his marriage Pemberton fathered an illegitimate child, and when Serena learns that she will never have a child, she is determined to kill both mother and child. Serena suspects that George is protecting his illegitimate family, the Pembertons' intense and passionate marriage starts to unravel as the story moves toward its shocking conclusion. I found this book to be preposterous.
Judith Mroz
The Short and Tragic Life of Robert Peace by Jeff Hobbs
This is not a genre that I am usually drawn to, but there were so many rave reviews about this book that I thought I would check out the pictures and skim the storyline. Well, that just didn’t happen. I got hooked right from the beginning. The carefully crafted story felt more like a novel than a biography. The author brought the characters and their feelings to life. This is one book that I will remember for a very long time. I don't always agree with the "Bets on" selections, but this time it was right on for me.
Susan Robinson
The Quick by Lauren Owen
A truly engrossing read with the feel of a Victorian novel. The story is told first from the point of view of a young, somewhat impoverished gentleman. After he meets with calamity it becomes up to his sister to try to help him and to find inner resources to face an astonishing knowledge. The novel then switches to focus on her efforts. Yes, there are vampires in this book-- but is nothing like those in the recent paranormal fantasy craze. There's much to admire in this first book from this author.
mary moreno
The Wild Truth by Carine McCandless
If you loved INTO THE WILD, this book provides the backstory. Well written and a fascinating look at family dynamics that drive our decisions.
Susan Robinson
Full Measure by T. Jefferson Parker
This a different offering from Parker. I've read and enjoyed most of his crime fiction. In this novel he takes a different turn. A young soldier has just returned to his Southern California home. Struggling with re-entry into civilian life, he is caught up in helping his family attempt to save their avocado farm from a devastating wild fire. A white supremacist has come to his small town preaching hatred, and our soldier's older brother is struggling with his own demons. This was story about family and community with suspense and intrigue mixed in. I felt like Parker did an incredible job of getting inside a soldier's head and portrayed his character with both strengths and flaws in a completely realistic way.
Maleen Corrigan
The Girl You Left Behind by Jojo Moyes
A love story - or two. An historical novel, the story of a painting... Moyes successfully moves the three strands together into a tightly woven braid that hangs beautifully through the pages of THE GIRL YOU LEFT BEHIND. The book has a "tidy" ending, but the twist was such that it enhanced rather than detracted from the whole. A delightful read.
Jan Hummel
Zero Day by David Baldacci
Very good book that kept me guessing from the first. The author introduces a new character, for a new series, that is going to be fun to read. Looking forward to more.
Nancy Hausladen
The Husband's Secret by Liane Moriarty
I read this book in one day because I could not put it down. The husband's secret is one that changes the lives of many people over the years. While it is certainly an interesting book and a good read, I am not sure if I really liked any of the characters.
Marilyn Myers
Orphan Train by Christina Baker Kline
Our book club had a spirited discussiosn of the book as well as the times represented.
Sybil Barber
Orphan Train by Christina Baker Kline
I loved this book. The interaction of the two women kept me interested and wanting to know about their lives. At the end of the book I wanted more! I also enjoyed it because I learned something I had no idea had gone on in our country. All those children, some were lucky, some not so much.
Crystal Blackburn
The Cat Who Talked Turkey by Lilian Jackson Braun
Shenanigans 400 miles north of everywhere. Koko talking to wild turkeys. Yum yum being cute. Qwill asking lots of questions and poking around.
Linda Harrison
Blood Magick by Nora Roberts
This is the final book of the Cousins O’Dwyer Trilogy and is the final showdown of the three descendents of Sorcha, the Dark Witch, versus Cabhan, the sorcerer and murderer of Sorcha and her husband Daithi. The three descendants are Branna and her brother Connor and their American cousin Iona. Branna’s lover Finbar is known as a descendant of Cabhan but is also found to be a descendant of Daithi, which results in his great power over Cabhan. The showdown is at Sorcha’s grave on the anniversary of her death.
Linda Harrison
The Mistletoe Promise by Richard Paul Evans
This was an excellent book that deserves more than 5 stars. It is the story of hope and redemption as two lonely people decide to draw up a contract known as The Mistletoe Promise. The contract stipulates that both will eat lunch together every day and attend at least one evening activity per week, and they will act as a caring couple. The contract will expire on Christmas Eve. Although Elise was leery at first, she grew to care for Nicholas and did not want the contract to end. The Christmas holidays were usually a lonely time but this year was different for both Elise and Nicholas.
Linda Harrison
Threatcon Delta by Andrew Britton
As Ryan Kealey is ready to enjoy his retirement and a new home on a Connecticut mountain, he is called back into action by Jonathan Harper, deputy director of the CIA. He is told of the death of an operative trained by Kealey, and then they learn of a bombing in San Antonio. As he prepares to investigate this, he is called off and sent in another direction. Kealey heads back to the Mideast where a prophet claiming to be Moses has appeared before a mass of people in Egypt. The CIA has learned of a plot to unleash a plague upon the people at the site, and they will carry the plague back to their homeland. Kealey has to stop the terrorists from unleashing this.
Linda Harrison
Confessions The Paris Mysteries by James Patterson/Maxine Paetro
The story was a little “way-out”, and it would help if the first two books in the series are read first. In this book, the remaining members of the Angel family children (Matty, Harry, Tandy, and Hugo) are being cared for by their uncle Jacob, a former Israeli commando. Their evil uncle Peter is now head of the family business after their mother and father were killed. Jacob and Tandy find that pills developed by Angel Pharm were given to other children in addition to themselves. Many of these children aged prematurely or died. Tandy knows that Peter must be stopped, but how?
Linda Harrison
Indecent Proposal by Molly O'Keefe
Ryan Kaminski had a one-night stand with Harrison Montgomery, not knowing who he really was. They planned to go their separate ways until a pregnancy test showed positive. Harrison was part of a political family and was running for Congress. He certainly did not need any scandal. They married with a proposal to stay together for two years. After that time, she could leave if she wanted. But Ryan fell in love with Harrison. What she didn't know was how he really felt about her.
Rosemary Carey
The Cinderella Murder by Mary Higgins Clark/Alafair Burke
Disappointed. Book did not hold my interest. It started out promising with the idea of solving cold cases, but when it delved into the cold case of a 20-year-old UCLA student, that is when I started to lose interest
Betty Chrastka
Thrones, Dominations by Dorothy L. Sayers and Jill Paton Walsh
Lord Peter Wimsey and Harriet Vane are still sparkling. Witty and engrossing mystery.
Elizabethe Plante
Me Before You by Jojo Moyes
All of life can be boiled down to two things really: love and loss. It is therefore understandable that most novels revolve around these two inescapable realities. It is always a delight, however, when love and loss are explored with humor, even in the darkest of moments. ME BEFORE YOU is just such a story, a love story, that is explored through brokenness and how tragedy can bring us unexpected results, rewards even and make us more awake to life. The plot is tight, realistic and unsentimental. I did not feel manipulated at all. The characters endeared me to them, and I found myself laughing out loud more than once. Thoroughly enjoyable read.
Mary Mahoney
Mr. Ives' Christmas by Oscar Hijuelos
This is a spiritual book which travels back and forth through the life of Mr. Ives, centering around the pivotal moment of his life, the death of his 17-year-old son, Robert. Mr. Ives and his wife and daughter are all affected by Robert's murder by a young Hispanic teen shortly before Christmas 1967. The novel touches on themes of vengeance, rehabilitation and forgiveness and acceptance.
Debbie Smith
Stone Mattress by Margaret Atwood
I love all of her books. She has a very unusual style of writing which appeals to me. It's always a bit quirky, however, there is much meaning behind her work also. Most are familiar with THE HANDMAID'S TALE. Futuristic is one of her themes. This is based on 9 short stories and I hope in a future book she will expand on them. The one drawback is I wanted more of each story. This has a bit of wickedness and quite a few based on aging. Great read. I will read it again to glean even more from it.
Kathy Iwasaka
Bones Never Lie by Kathy Reichs
Another fun Temperance Brennan mystery. It's great to revisit old friends from previous books, and I always enjoy trying to figure out who-done-it.
Coral Harrison
A Quilt for Christmas by Sandra Dallas
A good love story showing it is better to love and like than hate. Very well written.
G. Hare
Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan
This is a tongue-in-cheek funny novel about the super rich of Asia, romance, intrigue, and fashion.
I thoroughly enjoyed the characters and learning the inside stories of the super rich.
Kyra Mathis
Black Beauty by Anna Sewell
There is a reason it is a classic; refreshing book.
Susan Vasi
The Martian by Andy Weir
When the book was suggested by our book club, I thought "Oh, no - a sci-fi novel". I enjoy all sorts of genres, including science fiction, but it wouldn't be my first choice. This IS science fiction, but more science than fiction. The technical information in this book makes it more plausible than a James Bond novel. I don't want to give too much away. Suffice it to say there are no little green men. Mark Watney, the astronaut on the Mars mission, is a "MacGyver" who uses humor in the most dire of circumstances. I am technically challenged but I understood the gist of the problems and learned a little science along the way. It is a gripping, thoroughly enjoyable read. I highly recommend it.
Richard N B
Don't Sleep, There Are Snakes by Daniel L. Everett
The subtitle pretty much sums this up: Life and language in the Amazonian Jungle. Everett chronicles his experiences over three decades living among an indigenous tribe. Parts of this book are very enjoyable for an armchair traveler. There is plenty of danger – 30-foot anacondas, jaguars, piranhas, distrustful natives, malaria, and tarantulas the size of dinner plates. Stories of such encounters were fascinating, but other sections of the book read more like a research paper and I would lose interest.
Veronica Earley
The Magician's Lie by Greer Macallister
Loved the book.
Veronica Earley
The Boston Girl by Anita Diamant
Enjoyed.
MaryEllen Sloma
Murder and Mendelssohn by Kerry Greenwood
The Honorable Phryne Fisher series is extremely easy and fun reading. Our heroine started life as poor but due to the war, her father inherited a title and money. Because she didn't get along with her family, she emigrated to Australia. The latest in a series of book, this involves Phryne getting involved in a murder with a choral group, which she ends up joining in hopes to solve the murder. Not only is the book entertaining but it is always educational as Ms. Greenwood includes true details in with her stories. A great series to read!
Carroll Savage
Me BeforeYou by Jojo Moyes
One of the best books I have read! Lots of emotions were brought out as I read this heart-touching story!
Annette M Price
The Garden of Martyrs by Michael C. White
The book tells of two innocent men accused of killing a young man on the Boston Post Road in 1805. It is based on a true story. The men are Irish immigrants, the man killed was a Protestant. This was a time of deep prejudice against the Irish. The men are jailed and kept for five months under terrible conditions, not allowed to see their families and not having representation by a lawyer until five months later. The lawyer has two days to prepare a defense. Father Chevarus, parish priest and himself a victim of prejudice and barely escaping being killed during the French Revolution, comes to offer comfort to the men. The story is very well written and the characters well-drawn.
Margie Bunting
The Rosie Effect by Graham Simsion
Simsion's THE ROSIE PROJECT was, hands down, my favorite read of 2014, so I was pumped for the sequel, even though I knew it couldn't possibly be as good. And I was right. Protagonist Don Tillman's idiosyncrasies that fondly reminded me so much of Sheldon Cooper last time around became a little more annoying as he and wife Rosie prepared for their first child. Rosie wasn't nearly as endearing either. But the writing is so darn good and the ending so satisfying, I couldn't give it less than 4 stars, even though it put me through the wringer!
Melanie S.
The Andy Cohen Diaries by Andy Cohen
Okay, I get this isn't great literature, but my guilty pleasure is reality TV, so I really enjoyed this for what it was - a light read. Learning what goes on behind the scenes at Bravo with all the "housewives' plus funny stories from Andy's personal life made for some amusing listening as Andy narrated his own book. Yes, there is a lot of name-dropping, but I also felt I got to know Andy better, and really sensed his intelligence (he has the pulse on what the public wants to see on TV) and kindness through listening to him tell of his love for his dog and his relationship with his parents. I actually found him quite endearing.
Shiela Beresford
The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion
While I felt the ending was fairly predictable, I was delighted with the book. I got such a clear cut picture of Professor Tillman in my mind, which made this book such a fun book.
Lois Goodstein
The Rosie Effect by Graeme Simsion
I absolutely loved THE ROSIE PROJECT. This book is the sequel. Not quite as good as the first, but you just have to love Don and Rosie.
Bonnie Gluhanich
We Are Not Ourselves by Matthew Thomas
Slow first half. Then you wonder why the wife didn't see this coming...the reader did well before it was diagnosed. Maybe 3-1/2 stars.
Rebecca Eugene
Mistborn: The Final Empire by Brandon Sanderson
Such a complex world, full of intrigue and carefully woven plot. The characters are so refreshing, real and well fleshed out, I feel as they actually my friends. The plot progression is intense and well executed and realistic as to how an actual rebellion happens. Brandon Sanderson is a fantasy genius. I recommend his book for lovers of this genre and newcomers as well.
Raylene Wauda
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
Here we read about how ordinary German citizens lived during WWII in their small town of Molching. While they weren't marching to the Dachau concentration camp near their town, some of them were getting whipped for giving Jews a piece of bread as they marched to it. One family even hid a Jewish boy in their basement to save his life, risking their own. Death is ever present in the book. Indeed, it is the narrator who comes to retrieve souls. We witness the power of words as they are used by Hitler and by Liesel; Hitler manipulates with words, but Death keeps Liesel's book because it is so special.
Sandra Furlotte
The Drowning by Camilla Lackberg
There is something about Swedish mysteries. I think it must be the brooding landscapes that darken the plots. This is a fine example of the genre and I look forward to each new Lackberg book.
Dr. Judy Beckman
Marjorie Morningstar by Herman Wouk
When I was 17 I was absolutely hooked on the book. Couldn't put it down. I identified with characters and lived the story. At 72, I was more interested in the author's themes, the period in which he wrote, to whom he dedicated the book, and the tone of different parts of the book.
Dr. Judy Beckman
The Invention of Wings by Sue Monk Kidd
Discussion was short but book discussion participants all talked. Just surprised at the dearth of really enthusiastic responses, yet all eight members of the club members enjoyed the book and learned a lot of surprising history. Were impressed with mixture of fiction and nonfiction in the book.
Deanna
All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr
I put this novel on my reading list simply because of all the critical praise and high-scoring reviews that proceeded it. When I began reading it, I would often put it back down because, frankly, it bored me. But after about five chapters, I found a certain rhythm to it and was hooked. There is a lyricism and flow to the writing of Mr. Doerr that is absolutely beautiful. The story is quite compelling as well. While the ending seemed rushed and, at times, unnecessary, and the book does have its faults, it was overall a very satisfying, remarkable read that I enjoyed and would recommend.
Sandy McCullough
Far from Here by Nicole Baart
I read this book in 2 days because it was so easy to read.
Debbie M
The Invention of Wings by Sue Monk Kidd
Kidd picks a topic that should be interesting, but the actual story falls short of the expectations. The story presents a historical rendering of Sarah and Angelina Grimke, sisters who fought against slavery and marched for woman's suffrage. I felt that the story got lost in the multiple stories and that the characters lacked character. I prodded along with the story with an instant dislike of the sisters. None of the characters earned my admiration. I felt the characters weak even though the sisters fought against slavery while living in the South. Sue Monk Kidd's first novel presented interesting characters, but later novels lack character depth.
Debbie M
The Bat by Jo Nesbo
This is my first introduction to the Harry Hole series, and I am unsure if I will continue reading this series. The story centers on Harry Hole, a Norwegian detective assisting with a case in Australia. The story focuses on many issues in Australia such as the aborigines and the history of Australia - and all this from a Norwegian writer. Harry is an alcoholic and the case sends him into an alcoholic binge. Harry jumps to and from night clubs, strip joints, a circus, and an aquarium with ease. The story to its end is littered with dead blondes and unlikely vermin.
Debbie M
Enter Pale Death by Barbara Cleverly
I have always enjoyed the Joe Sandilands series, but this latest novel misses the point. The book rests its case on too much dialogue that sounds like uneducated dribble. I finished the book with very little sense of the area or the people. The bright star of the novel becomes an insignificant character, the vet, Adelaide. Will Joe pursue this highly intelligent and fetching vet and leave Dorcas?
Dorothy Gordon
A Spectacle of Corruption by David Liss
Excellent story with some colorful and disreputable characters. In England of the 17th and 18th centuries, the elections to Parliament were a free-for-all. Votes were paid for, mobs scared off the electors and almost anything goes. Benjamin Weaver is a thief-taker whose job is to track down miscreants and sometimes do a bit of detecting. He finds himself accused and convicted of a murder during a mob scene of dock workers fighting. Having escaped with the help of a mysterious woman, he ends up disguising himself as a member of the gentry from Jamaica so he can figure out who framed him. With the help of some friends he acquaints himself with the Whigs, Tories and secret Jacobites plotting their schemes.
Vikki C.
A Pleasure and a Calling by Phil Hogan
This was one creepy story. You won't be able to put it down.
Amy Nash
Mrs. Poe by Lynn Cullen
The truth behind the public or known personas of historical figures is fascinating. I'm looking forward to reading Ms. Cullen's earlier works as well as anticipating her next novel. Lots of material for a great book club discussion.
mary moreno
The Bishop's Wife by Mette Ivie Harrison
Too much theology and not enough mystery.
Jackie Ranaldo
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
Not my favorite.
Jan Guerra
A Land More Kind Than Home by Wiley Cash
A tale told from three different characters' perspectives on the effect a religious organization and its charismatic leader has on a family was a slow start and then I could not put it down. Set in a small mountain town in North Carolina in the 1980s. My heart broke for Jess, a nine year old boy in the middle of the story and one of its voices. As the drama unfolds you keep wanting him to tell what he knows in the hopes that things will go differently, but the choices he makes spin things on a path he can't change.
Ann Paietta
Behind the Scenes at the Museum by Kate Atkinson
Insightful first novel of an established author.
Linda Kish
Five Days Left by Julie Lawson Timmer
You run the gamut of emotions reading this amazing debut book. I loved it.
Sabrina Laitinen
The Island by Victoria Hislop
This international bestseller is a true classic in every sense of the word. Well written and thought- provoking, hard-to-put-done, and a fascinating subject to boot!!! Fast-tracked for my book club's reading!
Heather Holden
The Universe Versus Alex Woods by Gavin Extence
I thought it had great character development and a very interesting storyline. I enjoyed the characters in the book and found them likable. At times I was laughing out loud and at other times I was choking back tears.
Phyllis
Falling For The Wingman by Christa McHugh
Very enjoyable, quick romantic read.
Susan Kolodny
The Girls from Ames by Jeffrey Zaslow
Jeffrey Zaslow, the coauthor of THE LAST LECTURE, writes an in-depth book detailing the forty-year friendship of a group of women from Ames, Iowa. This heartwarming account of their lives takes us from birth through high-school and college. They are united through marriages, divorces, births, deaths, celebrations, and tragedies. THE GIRLS FROM AMES is perfect for discussions in book clubs. It will make you want to pick up the phone and call your girlfriends.
Sandy McCullough
Homer's Odyssey by Gwen Cooper
The last thing Gwen Cooper wanted was another cat. She already had two, not to mention a phenomenally underpayed job and a recently broken heart. Then Gwen's veterinarian called with a story about a 3-week-old eyeless kitten who'd been abandoned. It was love at first sight. This is a wonderful book for all animal lovers, especially cat lovers.
Fran
Silver Thaw by Catherine Anderson
Amanda and her daughter Chloe live under the radar with the hopes that they will stay safe from Amanda's abusive husband. When she meets Jeb, a local "good guy" and his mastiff, Bozo, Amanda relearns what it means to trust. The author does a great job with character development. The story itself is a bit predictable, but in a good way. A perfect no-brainer for a cold winter's night.
Oswaldo Reyes
Invisible by James Patterson
INVISIBLE by James Patterson is a must read. INVISIBLE is one of those books that you find impossible to put down once you start reading it. It will keep you reading late into the night. I'm an avid reader and book collector and I've read hundreds of books, and I must say this is the best book I've read so far this year.
Jud Hanson
The Cobra by Frederick Forsyth
If you like a lot of action, this book is for you. The plot involves trying to destroy the cocaine supply entering the US, and the President gives The Cobra carte blanche to get it done.
Laura Doutsas
We Should Hang Out Sometime by Josh Sundquist
Josh Sundquist - paralympian, motivational speaker, author, and cancer survivor - is not too smooth with the ladies. At twenty-five, realizing he has never had a real girlfriend, Josh tracks down his former crushes to ask them the burning question, "What went wrong?" What ensues is a hilarious memoir about the awkwardness of dating and, ultimately, how our own insecurities are what really hold us back. I can't recommend this book enough! I kept having to stifle my laughter while reading it so people didn't wonder who the madwoman with the book was. Guys will totally relate to Josh's nervous blunders as he attempts to find love, and with each "relationship" Josh details, ladies will fall more in love with his awkward, earnest charm.
Maryanne Jordan
The Death of Santini by Pat Conroy
Wonderful, descriptive narrative brings the characters and events alive. Heart-wrenching family life.
Helen Duncan
Book of Ages: The Life and Opinions of Jane Franklin by Jill Lepore
A worthwhile read--amazingly researched and written but just "interesting," not entertaining, to read. Glad I read it but can't recommend it to all.
Crystal Blackburn
The Cat Who Had 60 Whiskers by Lilian Jackson Braun
The final book in the "Cat Who" series is not quite as good as the other books but still worth reading. The Polly storyline finally took the turn that I have been expecting for all these years. I wish the stories could continue but the author has since died.
Robin Rabie
Still Alice by Lisa Genova
For anyone who has had someone they love fall into the "Alzheimer's hole", this is an especially touching read. Ms. Genova's characters are real and complex. I highly recommend this book.
mary moreno
This Is Where I Leave You by Jonathan Tropper
This was a very funny novel with characters who were lovable despite their flaws. I would love a sequel.
Judith Kirkpatrick
Redeployment by Phil Klay
With a son about to enter the United States Naval Academy as part of the Class of 2019, this book was a must-read recommendation. My son is a determined young man with dreams of being part of the USMC, the scariest thing for any mother. This honest collection of short stories speak of the collateral damage that results from the young men and women who serve and protect our country. While it's heartbreaking to read, it was an eye-opener for me. The mother at home who will be always wondering and worried for her child, but amazingly proud of his dedication to serve. May I never have to read a story about him. I am forever grateful to Phil Klay for "telling it like it is." May we all be thankful for those who serve.
Francisca E B
Five Days at Memorial by Sheri Fink
The subtitle says it all: Life and Death in a Storm-Ravaged Hospital. This is the story of the men and women who survived Hurricane Katrina inside New Orleans Memorial Hospital, and of those who died. I thought that Fink did a fine job of outlining the conditions within the hospital during and after the storm. However, in part two, I felt that she lost some of her journalistic detachment. The grand jury may have declined to indict, but Fink seems bent on trying Dr. Pou in this book. Despite what I perceive as Fink’s bias, however, I still think this was a fascinating and informative look at how our government and institutions are prepared (or not) to deal with the realities of a major disaster.
Cindy Norton
All the Bright Places by Jennifer Niven
Excellent novel ! Theodore Finch is a flawed hero - a very misunderstood boy who is trying to maneuver his way through life, having much difficultly doing so. Violet Markey is one of the popular girls and is dealing with the death of her sister - not so well either. These two characters are so well written that you know and love them from the start, and the story is so well told that you come away learning something about life - and death! Beautiful and tragic story.
Therese Wiese
Delancey by Molly Wizenberg
Memoir written by the co-owner of Delancey (in Seattle), focused on the 2008-2010 period where they decided to open, and opened, the restaurant. Being a business owner is tough work, and she chronicles the stresses on their marriage, too.
Kirsten Grier
The Secret Wisdom of the Earth by Christopher Scotton
This book was excellent. I could not put it down. This is a story about a 14-year-old boy named Kevin who goes to live with his grandfather "Pops" after a horrible tragedy takes his younger brother. He and his mom decide to spend the summer with Pops in he mountains of Kentucky to try and heal after the tragedy. Pops lives in an old mining town that is slowly being taken over by a big company. Kevin befriends a local boy named Buzzy who shows him around town. Through Pops and Buzzy, Kevin learns the history of the town and its people. I loved it. The characters resonated with me and the town really came alive in the pages. I highly recommend this book to everyone.
Lynn W
The Yellow House by Patricia Falvey
I just finished reading this debut novel for the second time -- book club meeting tomorrow night. It's well written, but I still found Eileen, our heroine, taking forever to develop a mature mind. After all she's been through, why does it take her night after sleepless night to make the right decisions?!!
Jan Zahrly
The Long Way Home by Louise Penny
This is the latest book in the Inspector Armand Gamache series and may be the best yet. Penny is a descriptive writer, leading her reader through the minds and the memories of her characters. There is always a mystery - in this case, a husband did not come home when he said he would. His wife, Clara, who had asked him to leave for one year, asked Gamache, now retired, to help her look for him when he does not return at the appointed day. I was most impressed in this book by the spirituality that some of the major characters demonstrate. This series needs to be read in the order of publication, otherwise some of the actions and interactions may not be understood. Penny never disappoints.
Pat S
The Mistletoe Promise by Richard Paul Evans
His books are so wonderful - always inspiring. I have met him and he is a wonderful human being!!
Pat S
Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis: The Untold Story by Barbara Leaming
Many fresh opinions of Jackie O. As one who seemed weak, she truly had agendas and continued to reach for what she wanted in life. This is not to say she didn't have a horrific life to endure. I would not have wanted to be in her shoes for any of it. However, one sees a different light to her life through this book.
Pat S
The List by Robert Whitlow
I truly cannot get enough of his books. He can't write them fast enough. I am working my way through all that he has written. Great books.
Pat S
Breach of Trust by DiAnn Mills
Just discovered this author (recommended by several to me). She is a winner. Really enjoy her books - keep them coming.
Pat S
Napkin Notes by W. Garth Callaghan
I actually bought this to preview to give to my 15-year old granddaughter as I thought it truly would be very inspirational. Parts of it were, but author focused too much on his prostate cancer, treatments, how it affected his sex life, etc. It was NOT suitable for my granddaughter - actually returned the book because of this. Very disappointed in it. I thought it would be far more "motivational, love notes" to his daughter.
Pat S
Footsteps by DiAnn Mills
Interesting - kept your attention. Really like her books.
Pat S
A Woman Called Sage by DiAnn Mills
So unlike the other books of hers that I have read but was really, really good. Trying to read all of hers that I can locate. Good author.
brenna callahan
Me Before You by Jojo Moyes
Absolutely heartbreaking, in the best way. Jojo Moyes writes in a conversational, yet beautiful way. I felt like I knew these characters and by the end of the novel felt so connected to the story. ME BEFORE YOU explores an interesting and unique relationship between two unlikely people. You won't be able to put it down!
Linda Johnson
Wild by Cheryl Strayed
Cheryl Strayed's life whirled out of control after her mother died. Falling into a maelstrom of infidelity and drugs resulting in a divorce. So what better way to "find yourself" than to try a completely new endeavor - hiking the Pacific Coast Trail from California to Canada. Strayed learns much about the trail, hiking, the people on the trail and most of all herself. Would she be a better, more stable person at the end of the trail? Walk her path and see.
Pam Flynn
A.D. 30 by Ted Dekker
This is a wonderful book about a woman whose life is completely changed by the meeting of our Lord and Savior Jesus. An important piece with new perspectives on the life of Jesus.
Denise Westlake
A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman
"Death is a strange thing. People live their whole lives as if it doesn't exist, and yet it's often the great motivation for living." A delightful book full of wonderful truism. Love wins!
Tessa B C
The Right Thing by Amy Conner
2-1/2 stars. Annie and Starr were best friends in second grade until Starr and her daddy suddenly moved away. Some twenty years later, Annie and Starr meet outside a department store and immediately renew their friendship, setting off on a road trip. I was interested in the friendship between these two women, but Conner lost me at the end. Annie makes some really uncharacteristic decisions, and the final chapter was particularly unbelievable. So the end result was that I was left feeling unsatisfied. I do think that Conner shows promise and I’d be willing to try another book by her…but not anytime soon.
Crystal Blackburn
The Private Life of the Cat Who... by Lilian Jackson Braun
The story of Koko and Yum Yum and how they became Qwill's cats is fluffy and fun.
Marsha
Burn by James Patterson and Michael Ledwidge
The writing duo features NYPD Detective Michael Bennett who while handling his large family is taking over an Outreach Squad in Harlem and trying to solve diamond store heists. The pace is relentless and the storyline will keep you reading into the night.
Tara Hjalmquist
The Great Leader and the Fighter Pilot by Blaine Harden
Fascinating. Underdog story. Interweaving tales.
Michelle Robertson
Healer by Carol Cassella
The story is written by a fellow physician and Pacific NE author who I saw at a local school foundation breakfast. It is set in a fictional town near Seattle, and the physician is forced to return to medical practice after her husband's biotech company fails. It is highly relatable with good character development. The story could have had more if it had an interesting climax, but overall it read well.
Gretchen Carolan
Mister Owita's Guide to Gardening by Carol Wall
I won this book from ReadingGroupGuides.com and it took me awhile before I started reading it, but once I started it was hard for me to put it down. I did find that the author at times felt really sorry for herself when Giles Owita had a lot more going on in his life, but then I have never had cancer so I don't know how I would react either. I really enjoyed the friendship that the author had with Giles Owita and was actually jealous thinking I wished I could meet a person like that to have such a great relationship. Then it dawned on me - my dad is going to be 106 in June and he is so amazing. I see him every day, he loves to play cards and has such a sense of humor. I would recommend this book, and it's the author's first book!
Jeri Schejbal
The Art Forger by B. A. Shapiro
Awfully good book, held my interest all the way through! Well written, interesting information about the "art world". Definitely recommend!
Judy O.
Dollbaby by Laura Lane McNeal
When Ibby is a small girl, her mother abruptly drops her off at an aging mansion in New Orleans so that she can live with a grandmother she'd never met. Ibby meets her grandmother, Fannie, and two of the black servants in the home, Queenie and Dollbaby. Ibby spends the rest of her childhood there learning the family secrets and finding out that love comes in many packages. I enjoyed this book.
Becky Haase
The Walled City by Ryan Graudin
THE WALLED CITY is a fast-moving novel based on the real Kowloon Walled City in Hong Kong. The three “heroes” of the novel are Mei Yee, a young girl sold into human trafficking by her father, Jin, her sister who has entered the Walled City posing as a boy, and Dai, a mysterious youth who may or may not be able to help Jin find and rescue her sister. The protagonists are Kuen and his pack of predatory and sadistic youth who bring terror on the inhabitants of the Walled City and Longwai, the gangster who runs the Walled City and the brothel that holds Mei Yee. Although the basis of this tale is human trafficking, sex is almost non-existent in the book.
Andrew Beck
Song of Spider-Man by Glen Berger
Fascinating tale of the origin and development of the Broadway musical "Spiderman: Turn Off The Dark" and the ongoing issues during its preview period and subsequent closing for revisions and reopening with a new director and an additional bookwriter. This show represented U2's first Broadway score and featured the return of Tony award-winning director Julie Taymor. The story is told from Berger's perspective, since he was the original bookwriter and remained after Taymor was fired. He can be glib at times and is always expressing his regret for what happened to Taymor, as if writing the book will assuage his guilt. But for those who enjoy theatrical lore and need to be reminded that Broadway is a business, this book is essential.
Kimberly A Bell
The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion
4-1/2 stars It was like my favorite TV show, The Big Bang Theory. Light and funny, it was an easy read.
Marsha
The Boston Girl by Anita Diamant
This is a moving portrait told by "the Boston girl" to her granddaughter of her coming-of-age with immigrant Jewish parents in times of great change. Born in 1900, she takes us through the early twentieth century looking at the generation of women finding their places in a changing world.
Jud Hanson
Turn Away Thy Son by Elizabeth Jacoway
This is simply an amazing book, detailing the events in Little Rock, AR, between 1957 and 1959. If you remember these events and want to know more, or if you were too young or not born yet (the latter for me), I highly recommend this book.
Harriet Stay
I Am Pilgrim by Terry Hayes
The independent booksellers across the U.S. voted this their favorite book. Okay, I took the bait and checked it out from my library, then I bought my own copy. Wow! This is a dynamic story, with complex and interesting characters, and uncluttered writing. This is not a cozy mystery but rather a high-energy thriller with the enjoyment of history tossed in that moves across the globe beginning with a murder in NYC. I copied a quote that explains why we are battling the Middle East...forever: "One of the foundations of democracy was the separation between religion and the state. To Muslims, the religion is the state. The last thing they want is to separate it. They began to divide and conquer with the First Crusade a thousand years ago."
Darlene
Nora Webster by Colm Toibin
Colm Toibin has once again written a simple and eloquent novel. Set in Toibin's native Ireland, the story is about 40-year-old Nora Webster, recently widowed and mother of four. This beautiful story is about Nora and her grief, and how she ultimately finds the strength within herself to make a new life for herself and her children. I highly recommend it!
Hedi Hopwood
Bad Men by John Connolly
I have been on a marathon of reading Mr. Connolly's books. I find all the characters at once wonderful and yet disturbing. Charlie; Louis, a black gay hit man; and Angel, his partner, keep the stories just smoking along. BAD MEN is a different character-based story but still kept it very interesting. These are stories in which you do not skip pages. Between Mr. Connolly and Stephen King, I may never go to Maine again, and I love the Downeaster train out of Boston North Station to Portland!!!
