This contest period's winners were Jan F., Linda R., Marion B., Muriel L. and Susan W., who each received a copy of BLOOD ON SNOW by Jo Nesbø, EVERY FIFTEEN MINUTES by Lisa Scottoline, and MISSOULA: Rape and the Justice System in a College Town by Jon Krakauer.
Alyson Widen
Paris, I Love You But You're Bringing Me Down by Rosecrans Baldwin
We just had Original Voices Book Club and this was the book we discussed for over an hour. It brought up feelings about vacations and travel. Rosecrans went to Paris to work at an ad agency after taking a crash course in French. It was funny to see when to kiss (bise) others when meeting. Invariably, he got it wrong. Construction increased by his apartment, along with parties from another tenant, but he wrote a novel, YOU LOST ME THERE by getting up early. This is a funny novel and I had to hold my sides because it's so good. You get the flavor of France and get an understanding about honest people.
Pauline Turk
Whiskey Sour by J.A. Konrath
This is the first book I've read by this author. I find her sarcastic wit absolutely refreshing and hilarious. Jacqueline (Jack) Daniels is a cop with the Chicago PD who is searching for a serial killer who calls himself the Gingerbread Man. This book has plenty of suspense and humor to continue reading the series.
Jayne Kasten
The Mockingbird Next Door by Marja Mills
Slow but interesting story of Harper Lee and her attorney sister in the small town if Monroeville, AL. Trying to learn why a second novel was never forthcoming, but not solving the mystery. In light of the revelation that the second book will be published this year, this would add some insights into the book club study.
Diane Pollock
The Caller by Juliet Marllier
A satisfying conclusion!
Esther Whatley
The Accident by Chris Pavone
When I rate a book 5 stars, it means I wouldn't change anything and that's certainly the case with THE ACCIDENT. The plot was unusual but not so farfetched that it couldn't really happen. The characters, good guys and bad guys, were all interesting and complex. It's my favorite genre - thriller - in the truest sense of the word. Fits all the cliché descriptions of the genre - page-turner, nail biter, up-all-nighter, didn't want it to end, etc. Even the heft of the book in my hands was perfect - small, lightweight, easy to hold whether in bed or on the beach. Thoroughly enjoyable and I highly recommend.
Susan Kellett
Inside the O'Brien's by Lisa Genova
From the first sentence I was hooked. Wonderful character development. Huntington Disease knowledge awesome. Sad but powerful. I will remember this book. Have read all of Genova's books and they are all good.
Julie Pierce
The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
I know, I know, it's another story about WWII, but I confess, I never tire of reading about it - don't know why. A fascinating story of two sisters who are each brave in their own way as they struggle though the atrocities of living in war-torn France.
Julie Pierce
Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel
This is a hard book to "genre-fy." Is it science fiction? Or a combination of mystery, thriller and dystopian fiction? Whatever it is, it remains a suspenseful, haunting story of the past and the future as it could be if a flu epidemic hit, and hit hard.
Michael McAdam
The Might Have Been by Joseph M. Schuster
I enjoyed this book even though it was about a subject that doesn't interest me at all - minor league baseball. It is more of a drama set in the world of minor league baseball rather than a sports story. The oddest thing about this book is that the main character was the least interesting character in the book - he was surrounded by fascinating supporting characters though he himself was somewhat dull. Anyway, I enjoyed the book!
Peggy Farmer
Leaving Berlin by Joseph Kanon
Gripping right up to the last sentence!
Michele Martin
All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr
I have read many books on the Nazi era and I try to pick ones that explore not only the sufferings of the people in the occupied countries but also the German people. This book covers both. Although it is a sad book, given the topic you would not expect otherwise, but it shows how humanity can triumph over evil.
Mona Garg
The Stranger by Harlan Coben
I received access to this galley for free through the First to Read program. Coben is one of my favorites. I've read four of his books so far and have enjoyed them all. His descriptions of surroundings, occurrences, and characters set the scene. His voices vary according to the characters' age and circumstances. His astute observations of human nature and behavior are spot-on. The dialogue is true-to-life and, as always, he injects some humor. The chapters are usually short, often ending with a cliffhanger, making his books un-put-downable. Coben wastes no time. The "stranger" is introduced to protagonist, Adam, in the very first chapter.
Mary Sue Skelton
A History of Loneliness by John Boyne
Very readable and especially interesting to follow the life's journey of the main character who is a priest. When he was very young, his mother declared that he pursue a priestly vocation, and he never questioned that she might not be right. In so many ways the main character learns not to think for himself and instead to believe what "Rome" tells him, and ultimately, what his closest priest friend tells him as well. The author does a superb job of keeping the reader's interest throughout the book, making the ending a very satisfying (if not unexpected) one. I did not think I would enjoy this book as much as I did, and I ended up with the intent to read the book written before this one (THE BOY IN THE STRIPED PAJAMAS).
Linda Harrison
Nora Bonesteel’s Christmas Past by Sharyn McCrumb
Like many of the Bonesteels, Nora had the "gift of sight". When her neighbor's Christmas tree was knocked down and ornaments destroyed twice, they asked for Nora’s help. Although most of the old house had been lovingly restored, the pink Christmas tree did not belong. The “ghost” was telling them to get a real tree but who was the ghost? As Sheriff Arrowood and his deputy went to serve a warrant on an older gentleman, they were talked into doing chores for the man and his wife. The old man then had the last laugh.
Linda Harrison
The Girls of Mischief Bay by Susan Mallery
Three ladies from different walks of life meet at an exercise class and become best friends. They are there for each other, whether due to the death of a loved one or divorce of a couple who have grown apart. This was a heartwarming story and is highly recommended.
Linda Harrison
The Witch of Painted Sorrows by M. J. Rose
The witch is a famed courtesan known as La Lune who lived in the 1500s. It is rumored that she inhabits the body of a female descendant who lives in her mansion. Sandrine Salome left New York after the suicide of her father. She escaped the viciousness of her husband and uses her grandmother’s name Verlaine to escape detection from her husband. She meets and falls in love with Julien Duplessi, an architect hired to preserve the old mansion. But her grandmother senses that Sandrine has been taken over by the witch. Does Sandrine believe this? Certainly strange things have occurred, but are these due to the jealousy of La Lune?
Linda Harrison
The Black Widow by Wendy Corsi Staub
This book has loads of suspense and you will not be able to put it down until you finish reading. Alex is a delusional woman who longs for a baby to replace the one she lost years ago. She searches the internet dating site for men who fit the profile of the husband who left her and plans for a man resembling her husband to get her pregnant. Gaby and Ben lost their son to sudden infant death syndrome and then lost each other. Ben has entered his data on the dating site and now Alex has contacted him. His friends saw Alex drive away with him and told Gaby. She contacts the police and just hopes they can get to Ben in time.
Linda Harrison
Crash & Burn by Lisa Gardner
This was a very confusing book to read. The main character was known as Nicky but she kept calling herself Vero. After her car wrecked, she told the police she was looking for Vero, a child. Her husband told the police there was no child and that Nicky had had several concussions within a short time frame and her mind was mixed up. Investigators found that the car had been pushed off of the road and the fingerprints found were those of a girl who had been missing for 30 years.
Linda Harrison
The Trouble with Texas Cowboys by Carolyn Brown
Jill Cleary arrives at Fiddle Creek Ranch to help her aunts. She is met by a sexy cowboy named Sawyer O’Donnell, who was hired as the ranch foreman. Fiddle Creek Ranch is situated between two larger ranches owned by the Brennan and Gallagher families who have been feuding for many years. Both families want the water rights that Fiddle Creek has and are bound to do whatever it takes to get Jill, who will inherit the ranch. But Sawyer has other ideas, especially when he and Jill have to share the bunkhouse.
Jan Zahrly
Dead Red by Tim O'Mara
A great mystery! Schoolteacher Ray Dunne is with his buddy, recently back from Iraq when gun shots kill the buddy. Dunne is hardly aware of what is happening. Various friends of the dead man and of Dunne show up with various proposals. One of them is to help find a young teenager, the child of a very rich and powerful man. This book has many mysteries and they cling together by threads. It is fast-paced, well-written, and will delight the mystery lover.
Linda Harrison
Delia's Place by Lin Stepp
Two months before her wedding, Delia Walker got an overnight letter from her fiancé, Prentice Ginsberg, informing her that he had married a fellow doctor and was going into practice with her father. Delia was stunned and headed for the house in Gatlinburg left to her by her aunt Dee. There, memories of her childhood spent with her aunt helped her wounded heart heal. She reconnected with her childhood friend Tanner Cross, who had grown up into a handsome, successful man. She had always had a crush on Tanner but was not ready for a romance. Tanner was not taking no for an answer.
Linda Harrison
The Secrets of Sir Richard Kenworthy by Julia Quinn
It took half of the book to find out what Kenworthy’s secret was and why he needed to find a wife so quickly. The growing love story between Iris and Richard was sweet. She was the type of woman that he needed in his life, and he saved her from a life of boredom when he married her. He asked for her forgiveness in how he had deceived her, and she forgave him because it was done in love and concern for his sister.
Linda Harrison
Breaking Creed by Alex Kava
Ryder Creed trains dogs and got national attention when his dog found kidnapped children hidden inside a fishing boat thought to be carrying drugs. When he rescues a human mule and takes her to his home, the drug cartel gets upset. They want their mule back along with the cocaine she is carrying. Maggie O’Dell is investigating a body found close to DC which has all the earmarks of a drug deal. The investigation takes Maggie to the victim’s address where his wife’s body is found. The killings were done by way of torture by a psychopath known as the “Iceman”. No one who has seen his face has lived to tell about it except one man and he has been captured by Creed.
Mary Mahaney
Awakening: The Keeper Chronicles by Katherine Wynter
Rebekah helps her father as a lighthouse keeper and B&B owner, and life seems simple. However, when he is brutally killed during a terrible storm, she realizes there is more to her past -- and her future destiny -- than she could have ever imagined! Will she have the courage to take up his fight against dark supernatural forces? An intriguing, dramatic plot line that keeps you guessing, complemented by the conflict in Rebekah's heart as she reconsiders her first love interest.
Mary Hayden
Cold Betrayal by J. A. Jance
J. A. Jance has done it again in her Ali Reynolds series. The book has two plots going on at one time, but they don't detract from each other. I always look forward to her mysteries and this one certainly didn't let me down. I have not done any research as to how much one of the mysteries is based on fact, but certainly it references an LDS situation in a small town in the Ariz/ Utah area a rather long time ago. The other mystery relates to her daughter-in-law's grandmother, living alone and being taken advantage of, financially, in MN. Both, of course are solved and keep you reading until they are!
Shiela Beresford
The Boys in the Boat by Daniel James Brown
Not knowing anything about this subject prior to reading the book, I was fully engaged in reading about these young mens' journeys to achieving their success. I have recommended this book to many others as I could not put it down!
Mary Sisserson
Killing Kennedy by Bill O' Reilly
O' Reilly certainly has a way with words. Here he presents the reader with many facts of the "Camelot Administration" that were previously hidden from the public, including the many enemies of JFK. It left me eager to read another O'Reilly thriller.
Jane Squires
Blowing on Dandelions by Miralee Ferrell
In this story I could so relate to how the Mither treated Katherine. I walked a similar road. Katherine respected and found it hard to stand up for herself. Micah's bitterness over loss of his wife is a thing many walk through. But love can happen again. A story that will keep you reading.
Muriel Logan
First Frost by Sarah Addison Allen
I enjoyed the book and the whimsical characters but think I would have liked the book even better if I had reread GARDEN SPELLS first. For anyone who hasn't read the first book in a long time, that would be my suggestion. The Waverlys are certainly a unique and fun family. I hope Ms. Allen has another story in mind for us about the family.
Tessa B C
Me Before You by Jojo Moyes
This was not the light, fluffy chick-lit romance I thought it would be. Rather, it is a wonderful, complex and compelling story of two very different people who meet under extraordinary circumstances and deeply affect one another over a period of six months. I did wonder if the title would be better reversed - YOU before ME. The audiobook is narrated by a team of voice artists, each taking on the perspective of a different character.
Jan frankel
The Girls of Mischief Bay by Susan Mallory
GIRLS OF MISCHIEF BAY was my my first read by Susan's Mallory, and I really enjoyed the first book of her next series. I am a strong believer in friendship and I especially liked the fact that the three friends are from different generations and extremely different backgrounds. The need to help one another is universal.
Marian Collins
A Constellation of Vital Phenomena by Anthony Marra
This is a wonderful book that I will always remember.
elaine beierbach
Every Fifteen Minutes by Lisa Scottoline
I have been a fam of Lisa for many years.
Dennis Beierbach
Every Fifteen Minutes by Lisa Scottoline
Lisa's books always tug at my heart strings.
Sue Em Davenport
On Folly Beach by Karen White
The juxtaposition between present day and WW II era. Present day. Newly widowed Emmy buys a local bookstore and finds notes written in books reaching back to wartime.
Carol Irvin
Longbourn by Jo Baker
Just finished this wonderful novel and I give it 5 stars. This reminded me of PRIDE AND PREJUDICE but based on the downstairs staff (cook, housekeeper, etc.). Highly recommend!!
Marilyn Myers
40 Days Living the Jesus Creed by Scot McKnight
Sometimes I just have to step away from fiction and read something completely different with intention, and this book was a good choice. It has challenged many of my choices, my attitudes and personal interactions.
Trude Vandine
Compulsion by Allison Brennan
This was an exciting page-turner. I never miss one of Allison Brennan's books and to me this was her best book yet. We get great insight into why Max is the way she is today. I highly recommend this book!
helen brady
The Romanov Sisters by Helen Rappaport
A compelling story of the Romanov sisters.
Marion Benton
The Whites by Richard Price
The characters were well-drawn and the author captures the frustration in not being able to put the bad guys away. The way they solved that problem was unethical? Maybe, but all these perps were seriously bad people. This is also a story about regret over innocent peoples' deaths and how it eats at the person who set those deaths in motion. I really liked it but it needs to be read quickly so that you can keep up with the storylines that switch back and forth.
colin beierbach
Every Fifteen Minutes by Lisa Scottoline
Lisa's stories thrill me.
Linda Reck
The Children's Crusade by Ann Packer
Ann Packer has written a sweeping, masterful new novel that explores the secrets and desires, the leftover wounds and saving graces of one California family over the course of five decades. The story begins in the 1950s when Bill Blair finds and buys acreage of undeveloped land in what will eventually known as Silicon Valley. On that land, Bill builds a house and a family. His marriage to Penny and their rearing of four children become a perilous zone when Penny decides she's had enough of mothering and retreats to a shed that she turn into an artist's studio. The beauty of the novel comes from the rich characterizations that make each member of the Blair family spring to life. This is Ann Packer's most deeply affecting book yet.
chris ladwig
The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt
Good story and great book club discussion. I felt it could have been shortened up a bit but fellow book club readers felt every page was necessary. Worthwhile read.
Rosemary Sobczak
Dreaming Spies by Laurie R. King
Lots of info about the Orient.
Barbara Boik
The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins
Loved this book from beginning to end! Highly recommended!
Linda Johnson
We Are Not Ourselves by Matthew Thomas
I really, really loved this book. It's long, yes. Nothing monumental happens, at least compared to most of my reading experiences, But often the ordinary can be monumental to those who are experiencing it. I listened to the book (narrated by Mare Winningham) and the narration was as quiet and subtle as the writer. The entire experience was similar to finding a penny on the ground. Then another. And another. And after a while, you have an amount that will buy something. The story of a woman, from teenage years to later in life is filled with strength and emotion, often mine. Even my husband, who doesn't read fiction, accidentally listened to this book and loved it. I look forward to the next work by Mr. Thomas.
Susan Spencer
A Slender Thread by Katharine Davis
A very good book. I learned a lot about aphasia. This book didn't have a super sad ending, and I think the writer got across an important message. I am excited to see what else she has written.
Susan Spencer
Where'd You Go, Bernadette? by Marie Semple
This book was like nothing I have read before and I really enjoyed it. Parts were really funny and I could just see some of the scenes. The ending was a bit abrupt and one major part of the book was left hanging, but no spoiler here.
Melanie S.
Did You Ever Have A Family by Bill Clegg
This book, which centers around a horrific tragedy of a fire that took four lives, has chapters that are narrated by different characters, each one connected to someone lost in the fire. It was confusing to figure out who all the narrators were (there were a lot of them) and how they were connected. The first half of the book was extremely depressing, as rape, murder and cancer were also added to the mix. However, as I persevered through reading, everything came together and became clearer. Ultimately, I became more invested and found the end to be satisfying, full of hope and forgiveness, and written in a beautiful way. Readers who stick with it will reap the reward at the end, but it's not an easy journey to get there.
denise beierbach
Every Fifteen Minutes by Lisa Scottoline
Another deep thinking novel.
Laura Beierbach
Every Fifteen Minutes by Lisa Scottoline
A well plotted story.
Laura Beierbach
Every Fifteen Minutes by Lisa Scottoline
This story captivated my interest from page one,
Elizabethe Plante
Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel
I'm skeptical about books that receive too much hype before the release as it leads to disappointment. In the case of STATION ELEVEN, every word of praise is well earned. I am not a particular fan of apocalyptic novels but this novel is unique. The narrative vacillates between the time before the flu that wiped clean the world as we know it and the 20 years beyond the collapse. We witness the survivors as they carve out a life that makes sense. What is so unusual about this apocalyptic novel is art, music, theater have a critical place in shaping the new world. Amidst decay, ruin, life and death we see how we need beauty and the gift of artists who give their life to create something that eventually becomes our protection against despair.
Shelia Worthey
Cat Watching by Desmond Morris
What a special, fun little book. Only 135 pages of pure cat delight! Things you never thought you 'needed' to know.
Susan Wilkes
True Colors by Kristin Hannah
The story is light but engrossing. It's actually an in-depth study of the challenging relationship of three adult sisters who lost their mother during their youth and grew up experiencing a very remote relationship with their father. A great story about friendship among sisters with all the jealousy, competitiveness, and love that is real between sisters.
Rosa
The Invention of Wings by Sue Monk Kidd
This is the powerful story of Sarah and Angelina Grimke, sisters from Charleston who were famous (or infamous) for their radical thinking of racial equality. The story takes place between 1803 and 1838, when abolitionists were beginning their anti-slavery movement. Sarah receives a slave girl, Handful, on her eleventh birthday. Thus begins a connection, a friendship of sorts, between the two, which endures through the book. Sue Monk Kidd's prose is beautiful and poetic. These are strong female characters with will and determination during a time when society wanted them silent.
Marsha
The Kind Worth Killing by Peter Swanson
If you are a fan of GONE GIRL, this one is for you. A random encounter in an airport sets into motion the idea of killing the man's wife. Who are these people and what impelled this to such a premise? Quite the interesting background. Beware of strangers.
Pauline Bees
Ordinary Grace by William Kent Krueger
Besides the mystery and coming-of-age components to the story, the levels and meanings to the title resonated beautifully in this book. Despite the turmoil this family faces, the mercies of ordinary grace pull them through.
CYNTHIA DUNKIN
Me Before You by Jojo Moyes
Tough subject matter exquisitely handled. Sometimes sad; sometime funny. Characters you gotta love!
Richard N B
1984 by George Orwell
Classic dystopian science fiction, written in 1948 and imagining a totalitarian society where Big Brother watches your every move and the ruling party controls all information. The thing that I find most frightening about this world that Orwell created is how very plausible it is. I couldn’t help but think of current events – torture, “Newspeak,” wars, video cameras on every corner, texting and hackers no longer respecting anyone’s privacy. Frank Muller does a fine job narrating the audio book. The scenes where Winston is being re-educated gave me goose bumps.
Donna Shaw
The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
One of the best books I've ever read. This story takes place in France during WWII. Though it is fiction, it certainly must be the stories of many French women. You feel the day-to-day decisions of what to do to survive and save your family. I will be sharing this title with everyone I know who reads. I do not give 5 stars, but had to for this book.
Debbie Smith
Some Luck by Jane Smiley
This is the first of a trilogy. I do enjoy that each chapter is based on consecutive years, beginning in the 20s. It's about a farm family in Iowa. I enjoy reading about farming and food, so it's interesting to see all the work and trials that are faced due to weather and the hardships of that era. The chapters run the gamut from weather trials, family issues, fighting in the war, Russians/commies etc. Some chapters kind of bog down, but all-in-all a good read. Looking forward to the next book and hope it doesn't take too long to arrive.
Kirsten Down
Etta and Otto and Russell and James by Emma Hooper
As we get older we often question our lives. Emma Hooper's take on this is spot-on and the characters intertwined lives linger long after the book ends. Etta's journey makes us all wonder "why not?"
Patricia Miller
Maisie Dobbs by Jacqueline Winspear
Really liked this! I was really hoping I would because I LOVE series books. Can't wait to get started on the next one in the series.
Elizabeth Vollbach
In Wilderness by Diane Thomas
You want to read this. Please believe me -- it's outstanding. This book is not a thriller, but you won't want to put it down. I feel so lucky that I picked IN WILDERNESS from LibraryThing.com's list of giveaways the same way I always feel lucky when I've just finished a great book. By "great book," I mean one that is both well (in this case, beautifully) written and can't-put-it-down terrific. But resist reviews that want to tell you the story. You'll love it so much more if you do.
Amanda cordaro
Introducing Charlotte by Charlotte Hains
This erotic romance novel gave me everything 50 SHADES OF GREY left me wanting, and on top of that left out all the boring and annoying subjects 50 SHADES focused on.
Linda Johnson
Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson
A lyrical memoir narrated by the author. She may (as her sister explained) be left of the tune and right of the melody, but she sings here. Strange - as quiet and measured as her voice (in both senses of the word) was, she completely captivated me. She's got my attention.
Crystal Blackburn
Poirot Investigates by Agatha Christie
Classic mystery short stories featuring the Belgian born, London-based detective Hercule Poirot.
Lynn W
To Dance With the White Dog by Terry Kay
Sam Peek's children are worried. The elderly man lost his wife of 57 years and now who's to take care of him? Maybe he doesn't need care, but then he tells them about the white dog, which no one else has seen. This is a lovely book about life well-lived, love, and family.
Francisca E B
Leeway Cottage by Beth Gutcheon
I really enjoyed this look at a marriage through the eyes of two very different people. The story covers several decades, though much of the action is concentrated during the World War II era. Gutcheon uses multiple points of view and moves back and forth in time as people remember past events, so I’m left feeling a little as if I’ve only scratched the surface rather than gotten the full story. I am reminded that there are many stories in the people around me; that what we see of a person – even one we think we know well - may be only the tip of the iceberg.
MJB
Miss Hazel and the Rosa Parks League by Jonathan Odell
This is an amazing book if you like to read about the South and the people struggling for acceptance and validation in a white world. Strong characters that kept me turning the pages and cheering them on. I will definitely read his previous book THE HEALING.
Kim Lawrence
Waist Training 101 by Vanna B.
Award-winning author, Vanna B. has written WAIST TRAINING 101, an easy-to-follow crash course in preparing for and beginning your waist training journey. After battling with abdominal separation due to pregnancy, Vanna took it upon herself to use waist-training as a healing method. After the results, she began researching and writing about the beneficial and healthy effects of waist training - she also started her own corset apparel line! The Amazon-best seller is educating women everywhere on properly “snatching” their waist line while putting all of its myths to bed. She's helping the everyday woman get in touch with her beautiful curves. WAIST TRAINING 101 has been featured on CBS Philly and Life and Style Weekly.
Vikki Cabral
The Paying Guests by Sarah Waters
I liked the story, but it could be slow and hard to get through at times.
Vikki Cabral
The Lake Shore Limited by Sue Miller
Complicated relationships surrounding a terrorist bombing on a Chicago train.
Marsha
A Dangerous Place by Jacqueline Winspear
Maisie Dobbs, who is recovering from a devastating personal tragedy, stops in Gibraltar on her trip back to England where she hopes to rest and recuperate. There, while on a hike, she encounters a murdered body and gradually is drawn back into her investigative work. Gibraltar is teeming with refugees from Spain as that country is drawn into a brutal civil war. Gradually, Maisie is entangled in political intrigue that takes her mind off her own problems.
Judy O.
The Bookseller by Cynthia Swanson
Kitty Miller is a young woman who lives in Denver with her cat in about 1962. She and a good friend run a small bookstore in town. When Kitty starts having very real dreams, she begins to wonder which is her real life and which is a dream. Interesting concept for a book.
shelly itkin
Bring It by Seeley James
The boy’s eyes pleaded for help but a tall Arab man grabbed him and took him away. Thus begins the story of why Pia is in trouble with the law. She tried to rescue him and others but did not do it according to the book. If you read the first Sabel Security thriller you will already know that Pia Sabel owns Sabel Security. She is twenty-five years of age and already helped people who she feels are being treated wrongly. She won the world cup and Olympic medals and is much more mature then her years. The latest mission that she takes on along with Tania, an agent, Marty, chief of personal security, and the other members of her entourage is a dangerous one. The characters are so real you feel like you are actually involved.
Deby
Black Out by Lisa Unger
The book kept me guessing about how it would end up, but it wasn't as well put together as I would have hoped. It was still entertaining, and I would recommend it for people who like thrillers. (Although I'd say it was a "mild" thriller.)
Lynn Thomas
Coming of Age at the End of Days by Alice LaPlante
I loved TURN OF MIND, so I thought I'd read another by LaPlante. Sooo different. The book seemed to wander here and there with a lot of character's quirks, but never a full-blown character study. An insecure and lonely teenage girl meets a new neighbor boy equally as mysterious, who introduces her a cult-like church group his family supports. The girl's world is enlarged, and grandiose ideas and plans bloom, as teenagers' often do. Weird plot events, no clear audience. I didn't hate it, but I will hope for another suspenseful read from LaPlante next time.
Diane Pollock
Passenger by Andrew Smith
Disappointing ending. Hoping for another volume.
Sean Penrose
Roses Are Red by James Patterson
Sometimes a simple read is a good thing. Most James Patterson novels are equivalent to a summer action movie and this one is no different. I understand that sounds like a bad thing but it isn't always. I enjoyed this thriller as I do most Alex Cross books I've read. The story involves evil antagonists and twists, as always. My issues with the novel were the last page revelation and the insanely saccharine dialogue between Cross and his family. Both left a lot to be desired. Overall, a fun book with a stupid twist.
Linda Johnson
Almost Famous Women by Megan Mayhew Bergman
A book of short stories about woman who were on the fringe of celebrity (the illegitimate daughter of Lord Byron, Oscar Wilde's niece, etc.). Commanding writing kept me in tune with the stories. I did listen to this. While the narrator was competent, there was no obvious break in between stories. If my mind wandered briefly, I only knew the story changed because of the change in name of the characters.
Francisca E B
The Elephant Whisperer by Lawrence Anthony (with Graham Spence)
I really enjoyed this memoir of the author’s time spent with a herd of wild elephants on his game reserve in South Africa. There are moments of humor as well as harrowing tales of danger. What really comes across his is deep love for these magnificent animals. While the elephants are central to the tale, he also includes details of the Zulu culture in post-apartheid South Africa and information about other endangered species. Simon Vance does a superb job voicing the audio book; I felt as if I were sitting around a campfire in the bush hearing Anthony recount his adventures.
Gladys Paradowski
Angels Among Us by Jack Canfield, Mark Victor Hansen & Amy Newmark
This book contains 101 individual stories and runs over 300 pages. The stories are interesting enough and almost had me believing that each author or their relative had been visited by an angel. However, at the back of the book there are blurbs about each of the story writers. The blurbs describe the many things written by each of the story authors: magazine articles, other articles, additional stories for these same editors, some even having their own books published, etc. These blurbs had me wondering if angels only visit professional writers.
Hedwig Hopwood
The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins
I was not going to read this due to the comparison to GONE GIRL, which I read but could not say I enjoyed. This is not the same. The characters in this are all not that bad and you do have some compassion for them. It is a good mystery and actually took me a while to figure out the true villain. But I agree with some of the views that this is again another over-hyped book. I really wish the publisher would stop trying to sell books by comparing them to something I have already read. What happen to describing the books on their own merits not on another book...
Elle Boehm
China Dolls by Lisa See
I enjoyed this book about Oriental women during the 30s and 40s and what they endured, especially after Pearl Harbor was bombed. However, I also found the book to be a bit slow at times. I have read several books from Lisa See and think this is not her best work.
Elle Boehm
Iqbal by Francesco D'Adamo
An enchanting and inspiring story. I can't wait to find out more about the actual Iqbal!
Elle Boehm
Being Mortal: Medicine and What Matters in the End by Atul Gawande
I am always so impressed with Atul Gawande's ability to to discuss difficult issues and look at all sides of the spectrum. This book looks at end of life issues. The big question is how you want to live your last days.
Elle Boehm
Wonder by R.J. Palacio
A wonderful inspiring fun book for middle schoolers that deals with the difficulties of disability and disfigurement. It was a joy to read.
Anna Cabrera
Keeper of the Castle by Juliet Blackwell
Best one yet of the Haunted Home Renovation series! Our favorite contractor, a historic home renovator who happens to be able to talk to ghosts, has her hands full trying to reconstruct a Scottish castle in the Marin headlands. There are plenty of new fascinating characters, such as the charismatic self-help mogul, the kilt wearing protestor and stern personal assistant. But Mel's steady helpers are also in great form, especially when Mel's love interest ends up in the hospital. Excellent mystery with a hint of history, romance and home renovation intrigue!
LINDA BASS
Inn at Last Chance by Hope Ramsay
Jenny Carpenter knew she wasn't pretty enough to get married and start a family, so she quit her teaching job, cashed in her retirement, and bought the local haunted house and made it a bed and breakfast. If her mother taught her anything it was how to cook and feed people, and at thirty-six that's what she'd do! One icy winter there was a knock on her door, and she knew neither her book club nor the movers would come out in this weather. At her hesitation there was a louder knock and she hurried to her front door. Mega-bestselling horror writer, Gabriel Raintree, returned to his childhood home after twenty-five years of being gone. He needed to find his muse and get his next book written so he had decided to return home.
Lynn W
A Spool of Blue Thread by Anne Tyler
There's no doubt that Tyler is a great writer. Every word, phrase, and sentence is the right one, perfectly placed, and moves the story forward. She is the best (that I've read) at revealing an American family's psyche and dynamics. Two stars to this point. I started skimming midway through the book -- bored. Part Three: A Bucket of Blue Paint is the grandparents' story and was hilarious. Add a star. The ending was lame. No more stars.
Jinny Jensen
Ice Chorus by Sarah Stonich
Stonich takes us from Canada to Mexico to Ireland, in each case capturing the landscape, culture, and language. She really nails Ireland using her documentary film job to glean the stories of the Irish and at the same time unraveling her own troubled history. She eventually gains peace about her broken marriage, becomes reunited with her son and her soul mate. Stonich herself is an artist and it shows in the way she writes about her protagonist's artist lover and what that character sees around her. This is my favorite of Stonich's books so far!
Jan Zahrly
Los Alamos by Joseph Kanon
A wonderful mystery on many levels. After a death, off base, of a security officer when the atomic bomb is being developed at Los ALamos in the 1940s, the base commander calls in an unknown agent to find out if security has been breached. The new man, Michael Connolly, faces constant objections and false leads. This is a delightful novel, published almost 20 years ago and makes the reader wonder what the government is keeping secret now.
Jan Zahrly
Carmine's Celebrates: Classic Italian Recipes for Everyday Feasts by Glenn Rolnick
This may be the most beautiful cookbook that I have ever seen. First, we have recipes and then see them in magnificent color. This is a gift book for anyone. But what makes the book so good is the additional information -- info on various types of pasta, on Italian wines, an education on cheeses and superb tomatoes. There is so much here -- but the photographs! This cookbook from an actual restaurant could be one of those cocktail table books. I love it and am so glad that I got an advance copy. I will use it the rest of my life.
Tessa B C
Friends, Lovers, Chocolate by Alexander McCall Smith
Book # 2 in the Isabel Dalhousie series has our philosopher investigating mysteries of the heart – both literally and figuratively. I enjoy the philosophical / ethical / moral dilemmas (both real and imagined) that Isabel contemplates. And I really like her relationship with the various characters. This is a gentle, thoughtful read with endearing characters and some food for thought. Davinia Porter does a fine job performing the audio.
Marsha
The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh
This is a treasure of a novel covering the topics of foster care, love, family, forgiveness and second chances. You will be touched and learn a great deal about the language of flowers.
Lynn W
Paris Letters by Janice MacLeod
"How much money does it take to quit your job?" On the verge of burnout, Janice saves enough and buys two years of freedom in Europe. In Paris she realizes she can never return to a job. She extends her dream by turning to her three loves -- words, art, and Christophe -- and finds happily-ever-after. I loved this book!
Thomas Barrington
Private Down Under by James Patterson
I liked the book but not one of his best.
Debbie Maskus
Sunshine on Scotland Street by Alexander McCall Smith
44 Scotland Street is my favorite Smith series. I especially love Bertie. In this episode, Bertie plans to take care of Cyril while Angus and Domenica go on a honeymoon. Of course, Irene, Bertie's mother, drives Cyril to madness, and Cyril must go to another house. The wedding of Angus and Domenica owes much to the assistance of Matthew. Smith presents heated topics in an elegant narrative. Bertie struggles with his mother's iron control of his every breathing hour, but Stewart seems to be aiding and abetting in his son's small freedoms. Stewart has even thought to have a DNA test on Ulysseus. What boldness! I must admit that the chapters dealing with Bruce provide only resentment and anger, but Smith probably plans this move.
Michael McAdam
Red Rising by Pierce Brown
I had heard good things and then got a recommendation to read this book from a friend (though I was slightly hesitant as she also recommended FIFTY SHADES OF GREY but I digress....), so I finally got it and read it very quickly. UNGER I enjoyed it so much I found myself creating opportunities to sit down and read (always a good sign). It is YA dystopian fiction just like THE HUNGER GAMES, etc. I recommend it!
Debbie Maskus
A Dangerous Place by Jacqueline Winspear
I have greatly missed Maisie Dobbs, and this novel skipped a chunk of her life, but then filled in snippets here and there. The story begins tragically for Maisie, and her grief and sorrow follow the whole story. Winspear does an excellent job incorporating the pain and sorrow into the story. Maisie embarks from India to England, but leaves the ship in Gibraltar for personal reasons, only to discover the body of a murdered man. The story follows the raging war with different factions in Spain, and the intrusion of Italy and Germany into the moray. This battle brings back painful memories for Maisie as she must learn to follow the teaching of her mentor, Maurice. Winspear builds elaborate settings, but her characters are lacking.
Judy Salisbury
In the Garden of Beasts by Erik Larson
A non-fiction book recounting the career of the American Ambassador to Germany, William Dodd, from 1933-1937. The family's experience in pre-WWII Berlin is interesting and frightening in hindsight as we now know that ignoring and/or minimizing the incidents that occurred eventually led to the deaths of millions from around the world. It is a cautionary tale for our own times.
Kay Cole
Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe by Fannie Flagg
As I read this book, I could see the relationship that was developing between a woman with a poor self-image who made mandatory visits to a nursing home and a woman whom she happened to meet and who had many stories to tell. As the chapters alternated between the past and the present, the story seemed to flow well. The story was told with wit and humor, making it a very enjoyable read.
Pam Adamovich
The History of Love by Nicole Krauss
Very confusing, dialogue in book jumps from character to character. Then we find out some things were in the imagination of one of the characters, leading us to wonder what was real in whole book! Could have been clearer to identify who was speaking at any given point.
Sandy McCullough
The Girl You Left Behind by Jojo Moyes
I loved this book!! Want to read more by this author.
Sandy McCullough
The Dovekeepers by Alice Hoffman
I liked the book better than the TV series, but the TV show was also very good.
Sandy McCullough
Little Mercies by Heather Gudenkauf
Very good story. Hard to put this book down, but had to get some sleep!!
Sandy McCullough
What Alice Forgot by Liane Moriarty
What if you got hit on the head and couldn't remember the last 10 years of your life? That is what happened to Alice. A lot happened in those 10 years and she can't believe what has happened.
Lori Bednaz
Still Alice by Lisa Genova
I reread this in anticipation of her new book INSIDE THE O'BRIENS. Her writing is phenomenal!
Carol Weigel
Dreaming Spies by Laurie R. King
This is a story within a story. King goes back to a time described in another book as a time of rest. She goes back in time to give a whole story that is between two prior novels. Some authors would not be able to handle the timing and keep it interesting. Perhaps I'm just a King fan.
Marion Book Moeller
Keep Quiet by Lisa Scottoline
Couldn't put it down like all her other books.
Kathleen T.Neal
Five Days at Memorial by Sheri Fink
Exceptionally well researched about the effects of hurricane Katrina on a city hospital in New Orleans. Heroism and racism exist side by side in this remarkable analysis of what went wrong in the hospital that left 45 people dead, some of whom were given large doses of palliative medication, which resulted in their deaths.
Bill Hamilton
The Night Crew by Brian Haig
Lieutenant Colonel Sean Drummond, after a long absence, is finally back. A US Army lawyer, Drummond is assigned to defend a low IQ soldier charged with committing sexual and religious atrocities against Iraqi prisoners in an army prison. Of course the case is far more complex and convoluted once Drummond begins reviewing the evidence and interviewing witnesses. The action takes us to the highest levels of government with Drummond putting his career and life on the line to uncover the truth. I highly recommend the book to readers of legal thrillers.
Sue Roegge
Mosquitoland by David Arnold
Read it. I loved it. It's one of those amazing books written for younger readers that blew me away. I hold it in the high regard I hold ELEANOR AND PARK by Rainbow Rowell and Shelley Tougas' THE GRAHAM CRACKER PLOT. I have to add Rita Williams Garcia's trilogy starting with ONE CRAZY SUMMER. Read these even if you are 101 years old. You won't be sorry.
Rosemary Bednarczyk
The Monogram Murders by Sophie Hannah
Hercule Poirot is back by another English author. In this story he is retired and temporarily living in a boarding house where a housemate is a young Scotland Yard detective by the name of Catchpool, who acts as the narrator of the story. The mystery entails three people murdered in a fashionable London hotel, all in separate rooms, all died in the same manner, all laid out on the floor of their rooms in identical positions, and all have a monogrammed cufflink in his or her mouth. Using the "little gray cells", Hercule Poirot leads the young detective through many twists and turns to finally come to the right solution, as is always the case in his mysteries. Ms. Hannah does Dame Agatha proud in this rendition!
Patricia Revzin
Inside the O'Briens by Lisa Genova
Lisa Genova is a neuroscientist and author whose previous best sellers are STILL ALICE and LOVE ANTHONY. She poignantly depicts a family in which the genetic mutant gene that causes Huntington's disease strikes the patriarch. We see the progressive and destructive progress of this debilitating disease for which there is no cure or treatment. Put this on your must-read list.
Beatrice Carroll
The Invention Of Wings by Sue Monk Kidd
Our book club enjoyed this book as much as I did. The author makes the historical fiction book seem real by her very good dialogue between the slave and the slave owner's daughter. Sometimes the torture parts are difficult to read, but knowing about what happened and feeling the pain they felt may help keep it from happening again. Much of the history that this book is based upon can be looked up and seen in Charlotte, WV.
Joanne Vago
The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
I loved this book! I learned so much about women in WWII and especially the resistance in France.
Rose Turner
The Boys in the Boat by Daniel James Brown
It is an exciting blend of the Olympic sport of collegiate rowing and the story of the University of Washington's 1936 quest for the gold medal in the Olympics. The emotional heart of the story lies with Joe Ratz, who without family or resources, finds a real place for himself by joining the U of W rowing team and making it to the Olympics. Not only is it a great and inspiring true story but a fascinating work of history.
Deborah Ader
Irene by Pierre Lemaitre
A creepy mystery that totally surprised me. I knew there were things that didn't make sense and it all came together in the end.
Sharon Lumb
Dead Wake by Erik Larson
A non-fiction account of the sinking of the Lusitania. I found it to be a compelling book full of details regarding not only the ship and the U-boat which sank it but also details surrounding the event, including the battle for control of the oceans, the success of Room 40 to break the German code and even President Wilson's romance of his second wife. I could hardly put it down.
Barbara Bocan
The Headmaster's Wife by Thomas Christopher Greene
I was lucky to read a ARC of this amazing novel. I loved the characters, pace and the twists of this book.
Barbara Bocan
Bones Never Lie by Kathy Reichs
This is another Temperance Brennan book and it was fairly entertaining. I had figured out the perp and the next victim about halfway through the book. It was maddening that she didn't and neither did Ryan.
Kathy Dorner
The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins
I was ready to love this book, but unfortunately it fell far short of my expectations. I thought the female characters were very shallow -- their main activities seemed to be drinking and sleeping around. I thought Rachel and Megan were practically interchangeable. I also found keeping up with different time lines for each character was confusing.
Nancy Bader
The Other Typist by Suzanne Rindell
This is a great period piece about New York City in the late 1920s. It centers around a woman typist at a Manhattan police precinct. It's a mystery and psychological study that raises not only the issue of whodunit, but what it was that whoever did. Keeps you guessing til the end.
Lily Montalbano
Prodigal Son by Danielle Steele
A fascinating read, especially for competitive siblings! Neither twin is what they appear to be and this layered story defines just what a sociopath can do to one's family.
Barbara Lima
The Husband's Secret by Liane Moriarty
This is a tragic, compelling small town drama, even though it originally starts in two cities. It's about the death of a young woman 25 years ago and how that affects many people. Who is the killer? When you find out, it still affects many people. How will they all react and come to terms with what has happened? Riveting. This is an excellent author -- I will definitely read her other books.
Linda Reck
Still Alice by Lisa Genova
This story is based on an accomplished woman who has early onset Alzheimer's disease and how she slowly loses her thoughts and memories. Not quite 50, she is totally unprepared for the diagnosis. STILL ALICE is a beautifully written heartbreaking novel about the devastating effects Alzheimer's has on its victims and their families. The book, written from Alice's point of view, does an excellent job of what is going on in her head as the dementia increases. Genova has given voice to a population not usually listened to. Although STILL ALICE is fiction, it is apparent there is much drawn from real life.
Rebecca Tyler
Under the Wide and Starry Sky by Nancy Horan
Great book!
Elizabeth Vollbach
Missing You by Harlan Coben
He's done it again. Harlan Coben has once again written a winning mystery/thriller in MISSING YOU. Or should I say "mysteries/thrillers" (plural)? As usual, this Coben novel is a can't-put-it-down thriller. One disappointment: MISSING YOU didn't grab me until the end of Chapter 1, not bad but not up to Coben's old standard.
Trude Vandine
The Memory Collector by Meg Gardiner
The second in the Jo Beckett series. Besides being another excellent story by Ms. Gardiner, it's an interesting look into memory loss -- what would it be like to lose your recent memory after only minutes? I'm becoming a big fan of Meg Gardiner.
Izella Cadwallader
The Love Song of Miss Queenie Hennessy by Rachel Joyce
I enjoyed the book very much. It was very thought-provoking. Funny and sad all at the same time. After reading THE UNLIKELY PILGRIMAGE OF HAROLD FRY, I just had to find out Queenie's story.
Nancy Hausladen
Hush Hush by Laura Lippman
I received this book as a winner of Word of Mouth. I am glad I did. I had not read anything by this author and enjoyed it very much. Private Detective Tess is asked to supply security for a woman who was charged with killing her baby many years ago and has just returned to the United States to try and get to know her older children. The mystery takes off from there.
Veronica Earley
The Rebellion of Miss Lucy Ann Lobdell by William Klaber
This historical fiction novel tells about a woman who fights for survival by posing as a man in the 1800s.
Veronica Earley
A Light in the Wilderness by Jane Kirkpatrick
A beautiful story of love between an African American woman and a white frontier man. Based on a true story, this a heart-wrenching story of love, survival, man's inhumanity to man.
Veronica Earley
Give the Lady What She Wants by Lloyd Wendt and Herman Kogan
Story of the Marshall Field, his love affair and the beginnings of the store Marshall Field's.
Sherrie English
A Spool of Blue Thread by Anne Tyler
Right from the first pages you realize you will be imersed in a family's life as if you were part of the family. Written in true Tyler fashion, you will want to cozy up and read the entire story.
Pam
All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr
If this were a painting, I'd call it impressionism. The novel is lightly, gently done--even with WWII as the subject, and it deftly draws a reader in, rather than grabbing. It is a book to savor because the language is lyrical, ethereal, and at times haunting. On the flip side, the characters and plot are also lightweight, but reminders of young lives cut short or at least stunted by war. I've read positive and negative reviews--and they are all correct. This is an unusual novel, carefully constructed to be appreciated, but it may not attract readers wanting gut level realism, complex characters, and plot twists and turns.
Lesley Marshall
The Wives of Los Alamos by TaraShea Nesbit
I chose this book for my monthly book group. Everyone enjoyed it and had personal insights related to the topic. The author's use of the collective voice "we" in telling the story was unique and appropriate. Much of what was discussed and we learned from this book's topic (World War II) has pertinence to events going on in the present day. Great book!
Marilyn Towne
Lila by Marilynne Robinson
Love this writer and wish she was more prolific. This prequel to the earlier GILEAD gave more insight into characters you want to know. The harsh conditions of the Depression are tempered by the kindness of many. A lively story about sacrificial love.
Marilyn Myers
Shanghai Girls by Lisa See
This is a reread for me as my book club has decided to read it this month. It has been interesting to learn about the arranged marriages, the beautiful girls, etc. and the struggles to adapt to life in a new country.
Penelope Witthauer
The Lion in the Lei Shop by Kay Starbird
I read this book for bookclub and I must say I was disappointed. The good news - I was appreciative of the perspective of wives and families living in Hawaii during the bombing of Pearl Harbor. The bad news - the dialogue read more like a soap opera. I would have appreciated knowing more deeply about a few characters than a great deal about many. I didn't gain any historical perspective from the time period, which also would have been appreciated.
Marilyn Hurst
The Paris Architect by Charles Belfoure
Our book club learned much about the French people during the occupation of the Nazis and the bravery of some to hide the Jews. Very interesting, good character development, and a real page-turner. This book pointed out the various flaws and positive points of the French, and the Germans.
Melanie S.
Everybody Rise by Stephanie Clifford
Enjoyable novel about a young woman who, while promoting an exclusive website for the wealthy and socially elite, uses her boarding school connections to climb the social ladder in NYC society. Lies are told and illusions are created along the way, which inevitably lead to disastrous results. The younger characters in the book were well drawn and interesting. The older characters, particularly the main character's parents -- not so much. The book started off very strong but fizzled a bit at the end. It's due to publish in August, and I would recommend this as an enjoyable summer/beach read. I think it will have commercial success and will be appealing to a lot of readers.
Sheryl Jeffries
No Parking at the End Times by Bryan Bliss
This is a great young adult book and also an older an adult book. I really enjoyed the story, and I look forward to seeing what Mr. Bliss writes next.
Laura
It Was Me All Along by Andie Mitchell
Mitchell thinks her real life struggle for happiness because of her weight problem will come to an end when she loses it - only to discover happiness did not lie on the other side of it, only the obsession to never gain weight. Her discovery of how she comes to peace with herself and food is a good read and where many of us struggling want to be.
Julie Pierce
Crash and Burn by Lisa Gardner
Just couldn't get into this book. The main character was irritating and kept repeating the same phrase over and over - "Vero learned to fly." Annoying, though it did continue the storyline of Tessa and Wyatt, two characters from a previous book.
Julie Pierce
Redeployment by Phil Klay
This should be required reading for everyone so that we all have some idea of what our military personnel go through when deployed into a war zone.
Helen Wright
The Liar by Nora Roberts
The plot started off as pretty interesting but got predictable towards the end. I liked the book but it was not vintage Roberts. As usual, the descriptions of the town and its inhabitants were first class, and the beauty shop was really well done. I liked the book, easy reading etc. but not as exciting as her last two, THE COLLECTOR and THE WITNESS, which was really top drawer.
Therese Wiese
How the Light Gets In by Louise Penny
Love this author! You can read her books out of order, but much better if you read them in sequence - the characters will all make more sense that way.
KC Davis
The Kind Worth Killing by Peter Swanson
GIRL ON THE TRAIN meets THE GOOD GIRL. A suspenseful thriller not to be missed. Telling all my friends and colleagues.
Wanda Bagwell
The Clue by Carolyn Wells
THE CLUE is a locked-room mystery written just over 100 years ago. The plot is carefully developed and easy to follow, but the solution is not revealed prematurely. The language, especially the dialogue, seems a bit stilted for modern tastes. The novel has the feel of an English countryside mystery even though it is set in New England. I enjoyed reading an early example of mystery, a genre that is pervasive in modern books, TV, and movies.
LINDA BASS
Carnival Tricks by Jade Kerrion
Kyle Norwood entered the bar with two scientist from Profice Labs. His mission was to protect them, but a shoot out turns deadly when the drug cartel enters and shoots up the place. He had to duck and pray his two clients listened. He was totally human in a world full mutants, and he had hated them when he was a child. Since his dyslexia made him inferior in his parent's eyes, they went to invitro to have his brother and placed HIM in foster care!! When his adoptive mom died at the hands of doctors experimenting on her like she was a lab rat, he hated them too. This was the first mission to go wrong since he worked for the Three Fates, and he shuddered to think what his boss would do.
Michelle Morrill
All The Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr
An absolute favorite of mine. A page-turner, thought-provoking and one I'll think about long after having closing the book.
Lily
At the Water's Edge by Sara Gruen
Even though Maddie was rejected by her mom, dad, her husband and his family, she realizes it does not matter once she finds her true love while searching for the Loch Ness monster! Well written story that will have you laughing and crying!
patty
The Accused by Lisa Scottoline
Another good mystery story. Young girl believes her sisters murderer was not found.
patty
White Tiger by Aravind Adiga
The novel's story is unclear to me as to why he be came a murderer, but the journey it took me on to India was very interesting. I learned a lot about the class of people and what and how they behave.
patty
Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty
Three womens' lives intertwine and the secrets they keep. Bonding and moral issues arise.
I liked THE HUSBAND'S SECRET better.
Donna Haueter
The Invention of Wings by Sue Monk Kidd
Our club truly enjoyed this book. The development of the characters took up most of our time. This is a book that is a must-read for all women.
Charlotte Glover
The Major's Daughter by J.P. Francis
A historical fiction novel based on an actual World War II POW camp in New Hampshire, this wistful look at young love reads more like a 1950's Lois Duncan romance than a contemporary novel. The characters are all in place and the facts are all correct, but somehow it just doesn't feel real. It seems highly unlikely that any officer's daughter would be able to spend a significant time alone with a prisoner and that she would not be aware of the severe consequences. Certainly it can't compare to the brilliant SUMMER OF MY GERMAN SOLDIER by Bette Greene, which it is similar to. Still, I liked it enough to finish it to the end. It had some lovely passages and a quiet tone that I enjoyed. I can see giving this to women wanting a gentle read.
Fran OH
The Daughter by Jane Shemilt
An interesting depiction of a family (through the eyes of the mother) of the days leading up to and the year following her daughter's disappearance. It took me a while to adjust to the writing style of jumping back and forth in time, but overall the author builds up good suspense and keeps the reader invested. It is the type of novel that makes you question how well you really know anyone. I enjoyed this book overall.
Lynn W
Mr. Penumbra's 24-Hour Bookstore by Robin Sloan
Good enough to stay up till 1:30 this morning to finish, but not good enough to give more stars. Just not my thing, I guess.
Stephanie Krantz
The Stranger by Harlan Coben
This book is what I call a "done in a day" book, meaning you won't be able to put it down once you begin. Sometimes Coben's books, though always enjoyable, seem to have a repetitive theme. Not so of this one. Without spoiling the story, it basically takes the reader through various characters and their lives and how making their secrets known impacts them as well as the unanticipated far reaching repercussions on others. Definitely need to add this one to your TBR list.
Antoinette T
Ship of Fools by Katherine Anne Porter
Received my copy from NetGalley. I found this to be a masterful novel. Takes place pre-WWII on an ocean liner traveling from Mexico to Germany. On board we have an eclectic group of people whom we get to know as the journey progresses. It is an excellent depiction of the time and the people- already we see the animosity felt by the Germans towards Jews. Not a book to be rushed through but a very worthy book to invest time with.
Antoinette T
Road Ends by Mary Lawson
It is always a pleasure to start reading a book by Mary Lawson. She takes you to small town Ontario and her focus is always on the people. This book is about ordinary people dealing with their lives. A good read.
Melanie S.
Everything I Never Told You by Celeste Ng
A heartbreaking novel about a family dealing with the death of their teenage daughter. The story is told through the perspectives of each family member - the mother, the father, the brother, the surviving sister, and even the dead girl. The family is bi-racial, half Chinese-American and half Caucasian-American, which brings up issues about race and fitting in for both the parents and the children. Cassandra Campbell did an outstanding job performing the audio book. It was so well done that I didn't even want to read any of this story in actual book form but rather chose to bring the CDs into my house to listen to when I wasn't commuting. Ms. Ng's writing was superb. She possesses extraordinary writing talent. Definitely recommend.
Jenn Pagan
The 100-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out of the Window and Disappeared by Jonas Jonasson
I love this book and the history included in it. When we see people, we never know what their experiences are or how they have contributed to our world, good or bad, and this is a great example of this. This book made me laugh, think and smile. Lots of quirky fun and a real page-turner.
MJB
Secrets of a Charmed Life by Susan Meissner
This is the story of two young sisters living in London during WWII. What they endured and what they overcame was amazing. Told in alternate stories from WWII until present day, at times heart-wrenching yet beautiful. I will definitely be reading more of Meissner's books.
Brenda Klaassen
The Prayer Box by Lisa Wingate
I read this book for an in-person discussion. At first the story did not grab my attention, but the more I read, the more I wished I lived in the same community as Tandi. I found the author included enough details to keep the reader interested without over burdening the reader with too many details. I have read at least two other books authored by this lady and they all have been well constructed. When I am seeking "hope," I turn to this author.
Amy Howard
The Stranger by Harlan Coben
A great read. I highly recommend it.
Betty Ramsey
Endangered by C.J. Box
Another great Joe Pickett story. It begins with Joe and Marybeth's daughter found badly beaten and dumped on the roadside. This after finding all of a sage grouse population slaughtered in what should have been a protected area. Angry, and now scared, he rushes to the hospital. where he finds out that their friend, Nate, is there too, having been gunned down by unknown parties. Worried for everyone, Joe works to find who hurt his daughter and his friend... and who killed the grouse and why. A good read by one of my favorite authors.
diane wall
Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand
It is hard to believe anyone could endure all that. But, we know he did. There was just someone found who was lost at sea.
Vikki Cabral
Before I Go by Colleen Oakley
I thought the story was a little silly at first and didn't think I would like it, but it really came together 3/4 of the way through. The last chapter was very sad.
mary moreno
Tab Hunter Confidential by Tab Hunter
This book provided insight into the unglamorous business of acting. Mr. Hunter came across as honest and likable.
Jan Zahrly
Blink by Malcolm Gladwell
As usual, Malcolm Gladwell's books push us to think more critically. In this case, he points out that our tacit knowledge, our deeply inherent knowledge is often accurate. I think a lot of our knowledge from experience, from thinking deeply, from trying to understand just builds up within us until we know, just like his examples, the right answer. This is a super book and I have promised myself to reread it every decade.
helen brady
Just Kids by Patti Smith
Loved it.
Denise Westlake
Crazy Love You by Lisa Unger
Supernatural. Weird, wild and just okay.
Denise Westlake
Normal by Graeme Cameron
Really enjoyed; close to 5 stars, but the ending kind of rushed. So good though, even some laughing out loud! Psycho killer gets tripped up and bested by would-be lady victims. His previously undetectable heart and humanity win the day. Entertaining!
Denise Westlake
Durable Goods by Elizabeth Berg
Just the way I felt being an 11-year old in the 60s! A military family grieving mom's death, gruff father.
Denise Westlake
The Magician's Lie by Greer Macallister
An awful lot of details that weren't interesting. Just okay. Not worthy of the hype; not worth the time.
Denise Westlake
Lessons in Laughing Out Loud by Rowan Coleman
"Liquid warmth spread thru her bones. Having (sibling/twin) Holly close was like home returning to her." Pg. 204. Slow moving, emotional angst.
Becky Haase
Risky Undertaking by Mark de Castrique
Barry, funeral director and deputy sheriff, finds himself embroiled in a dispute between the Cherokee Indians, the Catawba Indians, the proponents of a casino and possible gangsters when a body turns up on the fresh grave of the mayor’s wife. The Ashville area, the Cherokee and a variety of law enforcement folk turn this enjoyable mystery into a page-turner. Generous dollops of humor amid the increasing body count will make the “light” mystery fan happy. There are enough red herrings to keep the reader guessing until near the end.
Brenda Wiltshire
All Fudged Up by Nancy Coco
I get really excited when I find a new author whose books I have yet to read. My latest find is Nancy Coco and her first book ALL FUDGED UP. It is Book One of a cozy mystery series she has written about Alice McMurphy, owner of the historic McMurphy Hotel and Fudge Shop on Mackinac Island. I love cozy mystery series. Getting to know the characters and getting totally involved in the story is the best part of reading a series. In this first book, Alice discovers a real skeleton in the closet and becomes the number one suspect. Great quick read! I can hardly wait to get to the rest of the books in this series.
Becky Haase
Lowcountry Boil by Susan M. Boyer
A murder, a mystery, a family squabble over land, another murder, a philandering husband, a contract killer, a ghost – oh my – this plot is thicker than molasses. A likeable heroine and her ghost friend take on murders, wife beaters, divorced husbands, family disputes and more. If you can abide a ghost who is usually, but not always, in the right place at the right time, you will like this mystery. The characters are well drawn, with a few you will like and a few you won’t. The situations are believable and properly contentious. The mystery will keep you guessing and you may even find yourself rooting for the wrong person as the plot unfolds. A mystery with a bit of southern charm and a lot of twists.
Marsha
The Stranger by Harlan Coben
This shocking thriller addresses the idea that a stranger can sidle up to you and whisper something in your ear that will change your life. Secrets can and do destroy many lives just when you think you are safe. What kind of people are behind this conspiracy and how do you go about finding them. Scary!
LINDA BASS
Lonely Hunger (Elemental Series Book 7) by Larissa Ladd
Dylan, a water elemental, looked at his older brother and his new wife. They were all exhausted with the bombing at their wedding, and the three of them couldn't sleep. The terrorist act was targeting Aria because some Elementals didn't want her as ruler. The act delayed their honeymoon was put off because the couple was unbeatable when united, but Leigh had told him at the wedding that she was a spy, but after kissing her, even though she'd disappeared he couldn't believe that she was responsible, and he was glad that he had tasted her so he could trace her essence as he knew there was more going on, and he felt he wouldn't be lonely for long any more.
Maya Beck
The Nazi Officer's Wife by Edith H. Beer and Susan Dworkin
Excellent book about the Holocaust and one woman's survival underground and then her marriage to a Nazi officer. The author's story is amazing.
Ruth Vontell
The Storied Life of A. J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin
I just loved this book. I love bookstores and miss the days I spent working in one. Most of the ladies in my book club enjoyed it as well. It's a nice mix of mystery and romance.
Fran OH
The Persian Pickle Club by Sandra Dallas
This was a quick, easy read and I enjoyed it. I would recommend this to fans of Sandra Dallas.
Chris
The Enemy Inside by Steve Martini
I received an advance reader's edition through First Reads and really recommend this book highly. A fast-paced mystery full of twists.
Richard N B
The Bartender's Tale by Ivan Doig
Ivan Doig has a way of exploring the everyday events of a person’s life and making them seem epic in scope. In this marvelous novel he gives us a precocious, if worried, twelve-year-old narrator who hero worships his father. Rusty is a great observer and while his imagination can get ahead of the facts, he can also be pretty astute when judging character. I enjoyed reading about these two and the family unit they create. Doig paints the landscape so that the sense of place is so strong, the setting is practically a character.
Heather
The Enemy Inside by Steve Martini
Defense lawyer Paul Madriani is pulled into a complex maze of political corruption as he tries to defend his innocent client. A good fast read! An advanced reader copy was provided by publisher through First Reads.
Sheryl Jeffries
The Advocate by Teresa Burrell
Fantastic read. Ms. Burrell had me on the edge of my seat the whole time. I'm looking forward to completing the series.
Donna Shaw
The Children of Willesden Lane by Mona Golabek and Lee Cohen
The title of the book reflects the true story of Lisa Jura, who was sent to London to escape the Nazi invasion of Vienna. As a teenager, she was a musical prodigy as classical pianist. Her mother's words "Hold on to your music. It will be your best friend" kept her going. I gained a greater appreciation of pianists and their dedication because of this book.
Francisca E B
Mistress of the Art of Death by Ariana Franklin
Someone is murdering children in 12th-century Cambridge England. King Henry II sends for a medical expert from Salerno; he doesn’t expect to get a woman – a mistress of the art of death. This is not only a great mystery but also a fine work of historical fiction. I was invested in the story and in Adelia’s work from the beginning. The murders are pretty ghastly, and there are a few scenes of real terror and graphic violence. But the strong central character is what really held my interest and I’ll definitely read more of the series. Rosalyn Landor does a fine job performing the audio book.
Bonnie Gluhanich
Brooklyn by Colm Toibin
I read this on a longish plane ride and liked it well enough, but didn't love it.
Elizabeth Simpson-Weeks
The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins
In the genre of GONE GIRL. However with staggered timelines; 3 different female narrators and a lot like an Alfred Hitchcock mystery. I found the character development to lack the substance to hold it completely together. The players did not seem to behave as one would expect in similar situations, and the author seemed to revert to sexual fantasies that didn't add to the story. Each character was so dysfunctional that, like GONE GIRL, I didn't really care at the end what happened to any of them!
Helen M Powers
The Boys in the Boat by Daniel James Brown
This is a well written account of a rowing team training for the Olympics and the members of the team. I especially enjoyed that it was not dry like many nonfiction books. The author's descriptions of the races made me feel like I was there watching as they rowed.
Edna Juck
Caleb's Crossing by Geraldine Brooks
This is a novel, but it is based on the life of a Native American who graduated from Harvard College in the 1600s. It is a sad story and it points out how this young man's life was wasted because some immigrant missionary settlers thought they knew what was best for him.
Debbie Maskus
A Fine Summer's Day by Charles Todd
When I first started to read this book, I was not in the right frame of mind, so I waited and restarted reading. I really enjoyed learning about Ian Rutledge and his family and co-workers in this looking back book. Ian has probably made the biggest mistake of his life, but the war steps in to dissolve the error. The characters jump off the pages, especially many of the minor characters. Ian rushes between Jean in London and his duties in several surrounding villages due to many suicide or murder investigations. The reader is forewarned of the murderer, but not given the criteria for killing each man. The tension builds in Ian's cases, as well as in Europe with the threat of war. The ending brings resolution and closure.
Sandra Furlotte
The Last Four Days of Paddy Buckley by Jeremy Massey
A very entertaining read from this new Irish author. You will care more than you might to want about the undertaking business, including the embalming process. Paddy Buckley, the undertaker, is an unfortunate man who accepts his fate with sangfroid.
Lynette Reagan
You Should Have Known by Jean Hanff Korelitz
A mystery with lots of twists and turns--each one kept me engaged. As only a therapist can do, Grace searches for answers to what has she missed in her life. Her book, ready to be published, encourages women to listen to their husbands. Did Grace listen or pay attention to her marriage?
Bonnie Gluhanich
Between You and Me: Confessions of a Comma Queen by Mary Norris
This book is a hoot and an education for grammar and spelling geeks like me. Norris is a copy editor for the New Yorker magazine so she knows what she's talking about.
Melanie S.
When the Balls Drop by Brad Garrett
Brad Garrett was so funny on Everybody Loves Raymond. I needed something light to read so I thought I'd read the pre-publication e-galley I received of this book. It had a few funny moments, but Brad Garrett comes off as a total misogynist ( referring to his ex-wife as "my plaintiff" and to women multiple times as "broads"), and he is quite derogatory toward women throughout. As a woman I did not appreciate him throwing the word "tits" around. Does he actually think women will enjoy reading this book? Perhaps I am not his target audience, but I don't think my husband would enjoy reading this either. Some of his observations were funny, but I think he should stick to stand-up where offensiveness is more acceptable than in the written word.
Betty Taylor
Inside the O'Briens by Lisa Genova
Lisa Genova did an amazing job of writing how Joe slowly descends into a life obsessed with HD. With great sensitivity, she explores how each member of the family deals with the news. Each of the children struggle with the decision of whether to be tested or not. The fear the entire family has that the unborn baby may have inherited the gene felt so real. Ms. Genova also has the family learning to depend upon friends in time of greatest need. Joe, once a very proud man, now has to deal with the horrified looks he gets from people due to loss of control of his own body. But his fellow police buddies have his back. Joe actually comes up with a humorous way of dealing with people’s stares. Loved it!
Lynn W
The Boston Girl by Anita Diamant
Addie's story begins when her granddaughter asks, "How did you get to be the woman you are today?" Addie's life is about family, friendship, and feminism while growing up in the North End of Boston during the twentieth century.
Cathy Larese
Someone Is Watching by Joy Fielding
The main character goes through a horrendous experience. At times it takes your breath away.
Jan Zahrly
Bleed for Me by Michael Robotham
This author is fantastic. This is one of those complex mysteries with crimes by many and people fearful to speak out because they know they will probably die. The debate between doing right, i.e. speaking the truth or telling on someone, and saving one's own life is very strong. And in this book, the victims are children, vulnerable. After a book full of anxiety and knowing the hero, Joe, is going to get in trouble or be blamed for wrong-doing, we get some justice at the end. A terrific book. This is one of a series but can stand alone. If you love mystery, go for it.
Donna Shaw
Dead by Sunset by Ann Rule
This true crime novel takes place over a period of 8 years. Bradly Cunningham, who is a malignant narcissist, is charged with the murder of his 4th wife. He charms women and once they are his, he controls them through fear. He hates women and considers them and his children as his possessions. This story is well documented and it's difficult to put the book down.
Judson Hanson
The Dead Sea Cipher by Elizabeth Peters
Moderately entertaining but not one of the better mysteries I've read.
Judson Hanson
Terrorist by John Updike
Excellently crafted novel that has a true sense of realism in this post-9/11 world.
Judson Hanson
The Kidnapping of Edgardo Mortara by David I. Kertzer
Fascinating story of a young boy secretly baptized by a family servant and seized by the Vatican to be raised Catholic. Kertzer provides a great deal of context in describing what Italy was like in the mid-1800s.
Judson Hanson
The Pope and Mussolini: The Secret History of Pius XI and the Rise of Fascism in Europe by David I. Kertzer
A must-read for anyone who is a WWII history buff and/or is interested in the Catholic church's relationship with Hitler and Mussolini via Pius XI.
Sandy McCullough
Phantom by Jo Nesbo
I enjoyed this book very much. Nesbo has done it again. Might be his best.
Marie Ledin
Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption by Laura Hillenbrand
An emotional story of the sacrifice and endurance of Louie Zamperini, who could have been an Olympic champion if not for the war, and those who served our country during World War II in the Pacific theater. A deep appreciation for what they and all soldiers sacrifice for our country.
Tessa B C
The Sugar House by Laura Lippman
Book # 5 in the Tess Monaghan series has the former reporter turned private investigator taking on a job as a favor to her dad. I like this series, and I really like Tess. She’s intelligent, strong willed, confident, resourceful and tenacious; and she doesn’t rely on some “strong, handsome type” to get her out of a jam. Lippman fills the books with local references, giving the reader a definite feel for the location. And, since Tess was an English major, the novel is also full of references to books. All in all, a solid mystery read.
Elizabeth Vollbach
The Medici Boy by John L'Heureux
L'Heureux's concentration is on Donatello's homosexualty and his love and desire for a boy who is nothing but trouble.This book gets a low rating from me because, first, it begins with so much repetition of the same subject it is just plain boring. After we get to the artist Donatello, I was just as bored with reading about his desire for a 16-year-old boy when he is in his 40s. As the years go by, the story becomes more boring partly because of the subject matter, partly because so many years are just glossed over. L'Heureux is a great writer. I loved his paragraphs. But when they're all put together, they do not make a great story.
Sean Penrose
A Duty to the Dead by Charles Todd
On the surface, this isn't my usual fare, but I thoroughly enjoyed this wartime mystery starring strong-willed, intelligent nurse Bess Crawford. The fact that the female lead/protagonist didn't swoon for every male she encountered was a breath of fresh air. The WWI scenery was done very well, and I look forward to reading the next in the series and more by the author.
Judy O.
At the Water's Edge by Sara Gruen
This book was just "okay" in my eyes. It was an improbable tale about two men in Scotland who are hunting for the Loch Ness Monster. At least that was their story. Mostly they were there to drink and carouse, while one man's wife was left alone with a disparate group of people.
Becky Haase
Until the Harvest by Sarah Loudin Thomas
Henry is an immature twit. Margaret is a mature, responsible young adult. Mayfair is a sickly teen who may also be a healer. How these three ultimately get together and grow to form a family is the premise for UNTIL THE HARVEST. Returning to the Appalachian area she explored in MIRACLE IN A DRY SEASON with some of the same characters in new roles, Thomas has written a charming romance. This not great literature, but it is a thoughtful exploration of the meaning of family and the power of family (and love) to elicit change in a person. Readers who like an exploration of a simpler life without the pulls of modernity will like this book.
