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October 9, 2015 - October 23, 2015

This contest period's winners were Amy C., Beatrice P., Claudia H., Lu L. and Shelley T., who each received a copy of CITY ON FIRE by Garth Risk Hallberg, LAFAYETTE IN THE SOMEWHAT UNITED STATES by Sarah Vowell, and SEE ME by Nicholas Sparks.

 

Jane
The Good Girl's Second Chance by Christine Rimmer

4
I love stories of second chances because of my oldest daughter. Abuse is wrong, period. Men who abuse make excuses from what I've heard. Chloe battles thinking she is free but then she isn't really. As her ex starts stalking her, she gets afraid. Quinn was made fun of as a child because of a learning disability. He's fought his way through life in more than one way. The real story of love is Quinn wanting to protect Chloe - not all the lovemaking.

Jane
The Most Famous Illegal Goose Creek Parade by Virginia Smith

5
A delightful story of Al and Millie Richardson. And Millie working to buy an old place to open a B & B. The friction between husband and wife so enjoyable to read. Also enters Susan who buys a vet clinic. Small town people are hesitate to accept newcomers, as I well know. Then the town becomes divided over an issue. Millie hires Justin, who is an out-of-towner, and he has eyes for Susan. The antics that happen to Susan help her clinic and get her known. Young people are portrayed who struggle being able to make their own decisions. I hope there are move books coming about Goose Creek.

Patti
The Ocean at the End of the Lane by Neil Gaiman

4
The first attempt at reading I did not finish; I think I lost interest. Second attempt most recently I finished, and I can honestly say I did not care for the book, but that being said, it is different story. An adult fairy tale with all the darkness and symbolism one would expect. Tale includes memories and events from past with some of the same characters in the present. It is well written, good characters.

Kay
The Twelve Tribes of Hattie by Ayana Mathis

4
It was a good book, but hard to keep the characters straight as it went back and forth between chapters.

Kay
Deep Down Dark by Hector Tobar

4
This was a great book that gave good insight into what the miners were dealing with.

Frank
The Watchmaker of Filigree Street by Natasha Pulley

3
A wonderful debut novel. Part historical fiction, part steam punk, part magical realism, and a whole lot of fun.

Dorothy
The Price of Butcher's Meat by Reginald Hill

5
A worthy entry in the Dalziel and Pascoe mystery series. Told from several points of view, the story takes place in Sandytown, a seaside Yorkshire town. Lady Denham is the iron hand resting heavily on both family and locals who has formed a partnership with Tom Parker, a wealthy newcomer who wants to promote the area as a healthy place to visit. The Avalon clinic is also involved in the consortium. Dalziel just happens to be recuperating there after being injured in his last case. When a murder turns up it is Peter Pascoe who is the lead detective. Plus there is a young women psychology student who just happens to be staying with the Parkers who takes an interest in the case. Unexpected twists and turns.

Pat
Seasons Under Heaven, Showers in Season, Times and Seasons, and Season of Blessing ( Seasons Series) by Beverly LaHaye and Terri Blackstock

5
Really enjoyed this series--good Christian fiction.

Elizabeth
Darkness The Color of Snow by Thomas Cobb

4
DARKNESS THE COLOR OF SNOW was a tense read, but very good. I am actually going to classify it as a psychological thriller. The situation and the characters kept me glued to the pages but also had me nervous for the decisions the characters made.

Sherri
The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency by Alexander McCall Smith

4
Given the first 4 books in the series by my brother for Christmas a few years ago. Glad I finally got around to reading it. Enjoyable, easy read with a bit of interesting cultural insight into a more small town community lifestyle. Like all cozy mysteries, it's a stretch of imagination to read about so many things happening around one person in such a "small world." Many have recommended it to me in the past and their recommendations were merited. Hope to finish the next three before another couple of years pass me by. Too many books in my TBR pile.

Beatrice
The Troop by Nick Cutter

5
A troop of boys and their leader go camping and try to survive in the wilderness after being exposed to a contaminated human. This book was unbelievably scary and had me reading late in the night.

Linda
Go Set a Watchman by Harper Lee

3
I'd already read it. I just wanted to hear Reese Witherspoon narrate it. She does a good job.

shelia
What I Know For Sure by Oprah Winfrey

3
Yes, there are some inspiring observations in here.

SHELIA
Listening to Killers by James Garbarino

4
A difficult book to read because you realize it is complex and can't be fixed easily, if ever. I don't necessarily agree with his conclusions or his answers though.

Jeffrey
A Full Life: Reflections at Ninety by Jimmy Carter

4
At the age of ninety, Jimmy Carter is still sharp as a tack. He's a very good writer, and makes even his childhood memories intensely interesting. A decent man, something quite rare in politics, and although he clearly knows how to maneuver in the halls of power, you never doubt the sincerity of his faith as a motivation for his humanitarian efforts. Recommended.

Julie
All the Old Knives by Olen Steinhauer

3
A short spy story that drags until the final pages, when a couple of twists and turns are revealed.

Jan
A Fatal Grace by Louise Penny

5
This is the second mystery in the Chief Inspector Gamache series by Penny. Penny's character development is wonderful, and we get a clue at the end of this book that all friendships and support are not equal; hence another mystery in the making. Penny writes of an ideal community where things rarely go wrong. When they do, the inspector is called in and brings others with him. These books are gentle, easy reading and a comfort to the soul. Gamache always gets his man, woman or child and we get to enjoy the homicide minds at work in a peaceful, do-no-harm mode. I read anything Louise Penny writes and I urge all to do so. Start at the beginning of the series - the characters build with each novel. A wonderful read.

Marsha
Eight Hundred Grapes by Laura Dave

3
Eight hundred grapes are what it takes to make one bottle of wine. You will learn many facts about the wine industry as well as what it takes to hold a family together. From the outside they look perfect but in reality there are many messy problems and secrets. Home is where the heart is--or so we have been told.

Lynn W
Shadows of Death (Dorothy Martin Mystery Book 14) by Jeanne M. Dams

3
Love this cozy series. Dorothy and her husband visit Orkney (Great Britain), the site of intriguing Stone Age excavations. The murder mystery takes second place to the sight-seeing of these distant and beautiful islands, and that was okay with me!

Richard N B
Sacred Hunger by Barry Unsworth

4
An epic story set in the mid 1700s when man had a “sacred hunger” for power and position, and entered the slave trade as a means to expand the British empire. There are two storylines and frankly, one of them bored me. I would much rather have had more of the “paradise” society formed by the sailors and slaves who survived the journey, and less of the favored son’s attempts to woo a woman of the upper class. Some graphically brutal scenes were hard to read. Much food for thought.

Sherrie
Zero Belly Fat by David Zinczenko

4
A workable and not overwhelming plan to help you lose belly fat without being over the top crazy. This book includes doable exercise, recipes and an easily worked meal plan. I love the brevity and right-to-the-point ideas.

Helen
The Alchemist by Paul Coelho

4
Very interesting and thought-provoking. A fable that deserves to be the classic it is becoming.

shelly
A Moment to Love by Jennifer Faye

5
When Alexis Greer arrives in Whistle Stop, New Mexico to try and close a land development deal she is in for more then she bargained for. Her dad had been ill and she is really running the company, and they need this deal to work or the company might not survive. Alexis is taken by the old beauty and charm of the town; she feels like she is going back in time. The only problem is many of the stores and businesses are closed. The economy in the town is bad and many people have moved away in order to make a living. Her idea and the plans she proposes could bring money and jobs back into the town and helps revive it. Cord Lawson is a handsome cowboy who happens to own some of the property that Alexis is looking to purchase.

Linda
A Desperate Fortune by Susanna Kearsley

4
Sara Thomas has a knack for discovering the code covered by ciphers. An old diary written in code has been found and an author wishes to use the diary for a new book. Sara travels to Paris to work with the diary and meets Luc, a handsome neighbor. As Sara translates the diary, she gets involved in the story of Mary Dundas and the Jacobites. The book is written in current day and in the 1700s during Mary’s day.

Linda
Suspicious by Heather Graham and Tara Taylor Quinn

4
Tribal policeman Jesse Crane is suspicious of Lorena Fortier’s arrival at Harry’s Alligator Farm. Why would a big city girl want to work in the backcountry of the Everglades? Lorena wanted to find proof that someone at the farm was responsible for killing her father. Meanwhile, there is a giant alligator on the loose that has already killed and eaten one man. As if this were not enough, two people have been shot to death in their home next to the swamp, and Jesse feels that the crimes are connected. Lots of action.

Linda
50 Ways to Ruin a Rake by Jade Lee

3
Mellie Smithson and Trevor Anaedsley hatch a plan that will benefit both. Trevor’s grandfather is a wealthy duke and has told Trevor he will withhold his allowance until he finds himself a bride. Mellie has always wanted to go to London instead of being her father’s aide in the country. She will go to London as Trevor’s pretend fiance and she will find a husband. But as the old saying goes, the best laid plans go astray.

Linda
Dark Ghost by Christine Feehan

4
This is book #28 of the Dark Series. Teagan Joanes traveled to the Carpathian Mountains to search for a stone she believed would help her grandmother. When she escaped from a would-be rapist, she finds a warrior with horrendous wounds. Teagan is a healer and helps close the wounds, awakening the warrior and vampire hunter Andre Boroi. Together they find and battle the master vampire Costin Popescu.

Karen
The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins

4
I disliked every single character in this book, yet I could not stop reading it. I had almost completed the book before I had any idea of what was going to happen next!

Gail
Juliet by Anne Fortier

4
An interesting story that combines Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet with a present-time storyline of the descendants meeting in Siena, Italy and trying to resolve the ages-long curse on their families.

Mollie
The Secret Keeper by Kate Morton

5
Every member of our book club enjoyed this book, and we plan to read more of Morton's books.

Linda
Love Letters by Debbie Macomber

5
This book centers around the newest guests of the Rose Harbor Inn. Ellie Reynolds has come to Cedar Cove to meet a man she met on the internet and is a little unsure of herself. Maggie and Roy Porter are going through a rough patch in their marriage and innkeeper Jo Marie Rose hopes they can work their problem out. Handyman Mark Taylor and Jo Marie are attracted to each other but are leery of each other as well. Mark is still keeping his secrets.

Linda
Love After All by Jaci Burton

4
A cute love story. Chelsea Gardner has her list of qualities making up her perfect man. Now all she has to do is find him. It is certainly not Sebastian “Bash” Palmer, bar owner. Bash has made fun of Chelsea’s list but tells her he will help her find her man. Chelsea and Bash are friends, until they begin to look closely at each other. They acknowledged that “something” was going on between them but neither wanted a relationship. They can just be friends with benefits, right?

Linda
Silent Melody by Mary Balogh

5
A sweet romance that began with close friendship and blossomed into true love. Lady Emily Marlowe is deaf but able to speak a few words. She has adored Lord Ashley Kendrick for years but he sees her as a child until the night she surrendered her virginity to him. He finally realizes that he loves her but she refuses his offer of marriage. She wants him to admit that he loves her and not feel that he has to marry her or that he feels sorry for her.

Linda
Heartless by Mary Balogh

5
Lucas Kendrick, Duke of Harndon, has returned to England after years of exile in France. He promised his uncle, Lord Quinn, that he would attend a ball and would look for a wife. One look at beautiful Lady Anna Marlowe and he knew she was the one he wanted. She accepted his marriage proposal and within a week they were married. Anna had dark secrets that she longed to tell Luke, but she was afraid she would lose him. Her blackmailer has followed her and the threats continued.

Linda
Nothing But Velvet by Kat Martin

5
I love Kat Martin's books. Once you start reading, you can't put the book down! Velvet Moran is on her way to marry Avery Sinclair, the Duke of Carlyle, when she is kidnapped by a highwayman. She is held hostage to prevent Avery from getting her dowry. The highwayman turns out to be Jason Sinclair, Avery’s older brother, who was sentenced to prison for killing his father. Only Jason wasn’t the killer, Avery was. Jason’s friend Lucien Montaine has been trying to find witnesses to clear Jason’s name and Velvet is a distraction that Jason doesn’t need.

Patricia
My Sister's Grave by Robert Dugoni

4
I really liked this book! The storyline was very compelling and kept the pages turning all throughout. I loved both the murder mystery element as well as the courtroom proceedings. I'm excited to see where Dugoni takes the characters next. I'm also excited to read some of his other works.

Elizabeth
Frankenstein or the Modern Prometheus by Mary Shelley

1
I tried to read this once before but could not finish it. This time I made myself finish but didn't like it any more than I did the first time. I realize my problem: I was not seeing this with 19th century eyes. I don't know how to do that.

Jennifer
The Sparrow Sisters by Ellen Herrick

4
As a fan of Sarah Addison Allen and magical realism, I was thrilled to find a new author. The setting was beautifully described and filled with charm; Granite Point was vividly depicted by the author, as were the Sparrow Sisters. What made this book a 4-star read for me was a little loss of momentum. The beginning started off holding my interest quite well, and I wish that the entire book had captivated me as much. I am excited about the possibility of a follow-up on the sisters. Overall, I really enjoyed this book.

Leslie
We Never Asked for Wings by Vanessa Diffenbaugh

4
The author presented many of today’s social issues – pregnant teens, single motherhood, bullying, illegal immigration, undocumented children, and even climate change (via son Alex’s science project) – and wrapped them into an interesting, but not very believable, story. I thoroughly enjoyed the beautiful, descriptive writing, but not the characters themselves. A son like Alex is almost too good to be true for an irresponsible, neglectful mother like Letty. And the young daughter, Luna, was over-the-top annoying. What I did find enjoyable was the symbolism of birds and feathers woven throughout the story, and Alex’s fascination with his grandfather’s collection of feathers reaching back 30 years.

KC
Pop Goes the Weasel by M. J. Arlidge

5
I love the main character in this series. The author has a great way of character building. A must-read. I am looking forward to the next installment.

Jennifer
A Man of Character by Margaret Locke

5
A MAN OF CHARACTER was a fun and clever romance with a nice touch of whimsy! The author has a great, easy-to-read writing style, and I cannot wait to read more about Eliza's story in the next book.

Amy
Nora Webster by Colm Toibin

4
I could picture myself with them in Ireland. Remembering our beautiful family vacation on the Emerald Isle and knowing that among the smiling faces we met there were deep family stories we'd never know.

Phyllis
Madame Picasso by Anne Girard

4
This historical fiction is recommended for those who appreciate art or want to know more about Cubism and Pablo Picasso's world in Paris after emigrating from Barcelona. One also learns about his contemporaries and his love life with Fernandez and Eva Gruel. Both claimed the title of Madame Picasso, but neither legally became his wife. I suggest using the iPad to look up Picasso paintings if you are not familiar with his art as each is discussed.

Kara
Everybody Rise by Stephanie Clifford

2
I was excited to read this one -- and was even lucky enough to win a copy in a Bookreporter.com contest --but I found it underwhelming. At the start, Clifford decidedly failed to engage me in her characters' world. As I read the first chapter, I was thinking the world of 100% form, 0% content prep-school status-worshipping culture that formed the setting for the events involving protagonist Evelyn Beegan seemed surreal. I quickly figured out the flatness of the setting was simply startling; everything was too perfectly pretentious, as it were. It wasn't relatable, so Evelyn's story never engaged me much. The ending matched beginning in disappointing me - was that all? I think I will read again to find out.

Judy O.
After You by Jojo Moyes

4
This is a sequel to the hugely popular book, ME BEFORE YOU. We again meet Louisa Clark trying to deal with the assisted suicide of Will Traynor---the man that she took care of and loved with all her heart. We also meet teenage Lily, Ambulance Sam, Richard, and a few other characters who help Louisa on her journey toward mending. I really enjoyed this book, but I didn't find it quite as compelling as her first book. This book ends just begging for another sequel.

LINDA
Something Like Voodoo by Rebecca Hamilton

5
Emily Bishop had the "gift" as a young child, but no one believed her when she drew a picture of her friend with a strange mass on her head. Then her friend died of cancer and her folks believed her then, at least her mom. With constant trips to the doctor, they thought it was under control, but her mom's sudden death had her reeling. When her dad relocated them to Hackensack, New Jersey, she began having strange dreams of drawing people in her sleep. When Noah Caldwell bumped into Emily, he knew that she could only help him, but he had to be careful not to get her hurt with Sarah's jealousy and control over him, but as they spend more time together their feelings grew. Now Sarah is out to hurt Emily and keep them apart.

Sharon
The Bone Tree by Greg Iles

5
This is the second book of a trilogy. Action-packed with lots of twists and some surprises that were completely unexpected. Although this book is quite lengthy, it is well worth the time. Greg Iles at his best.

Marsha
Robert B. Parker's The Devil Wins by Reed Farrel Coleman

5
I was a huge fan of Robert B. Parker but I have become a huge fan of Coleman. His characterizations are more detailed than Parker's and the plot more involved. This Jesse Stone novel is a five star. It involves a cold case murder of two young girls and then the bodies pile up and Jesse's job is in jeopardy.

Lu
The Story Keeper by Lisa Wingate

5
I have just finished this book and couldn't wait to come over here and tell about it! I unknowlingly started in the middle of a series of books Wingate calls "The Carolina Chronicles". Some are full-length books and some are novellas. This is the first Lisa Wingate book I've ever read and what a nice surprise it was! I will certainly recommend it to the other members of my book club. I particularly liked the underlying theme of empowering women to make their own decisions in life, instead of depending on men to make them for us. This would make a great book to discuss with your book club.

Judy
Everybody Rise by Stephanie Clifford

2
I found this book to be slow - and simply a story I couldn't relate to. I found it difficult to believe a young woman, a working woman, can have absolutely no idea of the value of money. While people often live within their means, how can an adult be dumb enough to throw bills into a drawer and think they will magically take care of themselves. For me, not a book I would want to waste my money on.

Suzy
Beach Town by Mary Kay Andrews

5
What's not to like about this story on the makings of a Hollywood movie filmed in the tiny fictional city of Cypress Key, FL. Several storylines going on behind the scenes as the movie's location director has found this old small town, and a big time movie production ascends on it and virtually takes over. Awesome character development. I loved the ending and would also love to read a sequel if Andrews writes one.

Shelley
State of Wonder by Ann Patchett

5
Excellent characters and intriguing story. Highly recommend this book.

Francisca E B
Cry the Beloved Country by Alan Paton

4
First published in 1948, this novel has remained an international bestseller. It tells of a personal tragedy, but also of a national tragedy – apartheid. The writing is lyrical and evocative of time and place. A personal tragedy is the focus on the novel, but it is framed by the larger issues facing South Africa – the loss of tribal culture, poverty, and flight to the already overcrowded city slums.

Becky
The Lost Heiress by Roseanna M. White

4
Looking for a fun read with a bit of mystery and a gentle romance? Then this is just the book you want. Brook, brought up as the adopted daughter of the ruler of Monaco, may or may not be the lost heiress of an English fortune and title. Discovered at the site of a carriage accident that caused her mother’s death, she was brought up by the love interest of the man she called grandfather in Monaco’s castle. Her best friend, Justin, himself heir to a fortune and title, is convinced she is the long lost heiress of Whitby Park. Galloping horses rides, love interests, friends, enemies, and misunderstandings abound in this detailed Edwardian romance with a Christian side and a unifying mystery. There are no sizzling love scenes or cursing.

Becky
Lying in Wait by J. A. Jance

4
An oldie but a goody. J. P. Beaumont is the detective in this J. A. Jance mystery. Beau’s high school friends and acquaintances make appearances as the murder suspect, the grieving widow and the tortured and burned victim. Sue Danielson is Beau’s newest partner in this well-plotted and devious web of greed, love, addiction, and secrets that stretch back in time and reach forward to ensnare Beau and his new partner.

Becky
Dance of the Bones by J. A. Jance

4
Jance brings two of her detectives together in this latest mystery. Brandon Walker in the Southwest is asked by the daughter of a convicted murderer to reopen her father’s case. Combining Native American lore with tough detective work, Walker brings J. P. Beaumont in Seattle into the mystery of two longtime friends, a lost treasure, a scheming woman, a long ago murder and several very fresh murders. Jance uses the talents of both detectives to advance the story and solve the mystery. Personally, I found the Native American tale sections that began each chapter to be distracting. As usual, her plotting is tight and the characters are real as are the conversations. A good read.

Jane
Streams of Mercy by Lauraine Snelling

5
There is so much of God's mercy in this story. So encouraging. A circus train came into town full of sick people. It shuts the town down. People die while others live. God is still in control. There are blessings and hardships. There is romance. Thomas tells Manny sometimes there are two choices and one must decide which is best. I highly recommend this book and all Lauraine's books.

Rebecca
The Daughters by Adrienne Celt

3
THE DAUGHTERS by Adrienne Celt tells of five generations of Polish daughters born with an inclination to music, but as each new girl arrives, it may be costing each mother a piece of herself.

Marsha
Lila by Marilynne Robinson

2
This is a difficult book to describe. A poor orphan girl strives to find family and her struggle is unsettling to read. Very Christian, very philosophical and only for those who love her previous works.

Linda
Come Rain or Come Shine by Jan Karon

3
This was a return to Karon's grace of most of the books in the Mitford series. I was very disappointed with the last one. This book brought many characters back to the Mitford area for the wedding of Dooley and Lace. As usual, not all is perfect, but most, including the reader, understand the blessings bestowed upon them. Karon wrote many short sections as she usually does, but this time she added a stylistic method that made reading and understanding disconcerting for me. She wrote using pronouns (s/he) and I didn't always catch immediately which s/he was being referenced.

LINDA
Exposure by Caia Fox

5
Melissa Hamilton loved teaching her young charges, although she didn't much date thanks to one disaster after another. By her second disaster, she decided to concentrate on her students. Then she was invited to go to a Shakespeare play and was hooked on the actor, but it wasn't the womanizing James Willouhby. When the two showed up in her class, she only had eyes for Nathan Waite and it appeared he was just as smitten as her! Once they dated, neither could get enough of the other, and the bad boy of Nathan came out and coaxed her to have sex in places she never even thought about! On their honeymoon the press got a hold of naked pictures of them and it only fed Nathan's career more while betraying her as the slut.

Betty
Being Mortal by Atul Gawande

5
This book is one of the best I've ever read about aging and the art of dying. Gawande seems to be an exceptionally caring man and an extraordinary physician/surgeon. It ranks up there with THE CONVERSATION by Angelo Vollandes as a book that everyone who is going to die someday should read.

Michelle
The Secret Wisdom of the Earth by Christopher Scotton

4
I thought this book got off to a rocky start and I did not really appreciate the last chapter, which was something of an epilogue. However, once the main action of the book began, this author wove an amazing story, a combination of characters, language and plot that made this book unputdownable. Buzzy Fink will live on as one of my favorite characters ever. Tragic, brave and wise beyond his years, yet still incredibly likable. For Buzzy I'm going to make it 4.5 stars. Really good storytelling.

Michelle
Armada by Ernest Cline

4
As he did with READY PLAYER ONE, Ernest Cline writes every nerd's ultimate fantasy. What if video games were real? What if you weren't just wasting time playing video games but learning valuable skills? What if those skills could save the world? Once again Cline takes his readers on a fun-filled ride loaded with pop culture references. For those people who read the synopsis and thought it sounded a lot like THE LAST STARFIGHTER or ENDER'S GAME, don't worry. Cline thinks it does too, and he embraces it and makes it part of the story. So much fun!

Michelle
The Story of Owen by E. K. Johnston

4
YA alternative history in which dragons exist in modern times, and to make matters worse carbon emissions are their favorite snack. So if you want to drive a car, burn a fire, etc. you had better have a dragon slayer on speed dial. This was the story of Owen, dragon slayer in training, told by his high school friend and bard, Siobhan. Nice story!

Michelle
Boy's Life by Robert McCammon

5
Amazing book! The story of a boy's twelfth year. What happens to his family, his friends and his town during that year filtered through the lens of a boy, who still believes in magic, who can still see ghosts. Wonderful storytelling here. The author really captures the spirit of a twelve-year-old boy and of the small southern town he lives in. Loved it!

Trez
The Preacher by Camilla Lackberg

4
A good read. The story kept me wondering for a long time. Then I figured it out. I hate when that happens. When it does occur, you begin to read to confirm rather than to discover. That is not as pleasurable because the anxiety is not there. Overall, it was worth reading.

Debbie
Brooklyn on Fire by Lawrence H. Levy

3
The Mary Handley series capture an independent woman attempting to eke a living in a male dominated world. Many times, Mary walks on too many feet for a woman in New York in the 1890s. Mary reminds the reader of the Gaslight Series also set in New York about a midwife. Both woman hobnob with the elite of New York society. I enjoy the way the Lawrence H. Levy interweaves fiction and nonfiction within his story. I felt some parts of the story a little confusing.

Judson
Last Ship by William Brinkley

1
Unless you like 90% stream-of-consciousness and 10% dialogue, don't bother with this one. It omits the backstory, leaving the reader to wonder what exactly led up to the events that put them in their current situation. Thank goodness the TV series is nothing like the book.

LINDA
The Basilisk's Creed by Eme Strife

5
I won this book from LibraryThing in return for an honest review, and I was hooked with the first chapter! Eli was so tired coming home to her crappy small apartment that all she did was fall in bed with her uniform on. She had relocated to San Francisco from the south, thinking California was hot, but boy was she ever surprised! Working two jobs, she still didn't have enough money to get a decent coat or a better apartment. That night, she dreamed she was in a field of sunflowers wearing a white cotton night gown that looked like her mom's, but then one crow flew past her then another, and another until there was a hoard of crows flying toward her and her feet were stuck in concrete!

Brenda
Fatal Trauma by Richard L. Mabry, M.D.

4
I read this book for an in-person book discussion. I was surprised to discover so many twists and turns in the plot of this book. I liked how the author would lead the reader to believe that the story was going one direction when it really was heading a different direction. The characters were believable. I think I will seek out this author again in the future.

Diana
Theo and the Forbidden Language by Melanie Ansley

4
I received this book from the author for an honest review, and I'm really glad she asked me. I absolutely loved this book, it seriously reminded me of REDWALL and MRS. FRISBY AND THE RATS OF NIMH. It also had some tones of the Sword of Truth series as well. It focuses on Theo, who at the beginning seems to be a bit of an outcast. It follows him on his adventure from there. I can't wait for the rest of the books in this series to be released. If you're a fan of books like TAILCHASER'S SONG, WATERSHIP DOWN, and the two listed above, I highly recommend it.

Judson
The Treacherous Net by Helene Tursten

5
Fantastic book! Best mystery I've read in a long time.

SHELIA
Married Sex by Jess Kornbluth

4
Wouldn't you know it - I win a book that I have no affiliation with - Marriage or Sex - LOL! So of course, I had to start reading it right away. Didn't need a bookmark b/c I completed it in one lying...down that is. My first reaction was: Yeah a man wrote this, sex sex sex is all he has on his mind. Second reaction: Well, this is a little like an Oprah show. Third reaction: This should be titled Married Sex 101! Although fiction, I had to wonder if he was writing from experience, as hinted in his Acknowledgment: "Thanks Richard Kornbluth, and Pearl Kornbluth for never suggesting I might be casting shame on the family. And most of all to my wife, for her saintly tolerance, and our teenage daughter for her total disdain." Good book.

Lynn W
The Dark Enquiry (Lady Julia Grey Mystery #5) by Deanna Raybourn

3
Enjoyed this 5th in the Lady Julia Grey series much better than the 4th.

Jennifer
A Window Opens by Elisabeth Egan

5
This fantastic book was a story of families and women/mothers who try to do it all. The pacing of this book had me glued to the pages. I loved the emails included, especially from Alice's father. I loved her father's storyline. I loved the humor exposed in even the least likely of places. I loved the book references and pop culture references (the reference to wearing jams!). I loved the life lessons included throughout the book. I know I used the word "love" frequently in this review, but I feel it's fitting in a book about families and love. I highly recommend this book to fans of women's fiction or just great fiction in general. I hope Elisabeth Egan writes more books. She has a strong voice for storytelling.

Thomas
The Wright Brothers by David McCullough

5
It was a very good book. I enjoyed reading the book very much.

Thomas
The Fall by John Lescroart

5
I liked the book very much.

Thomas
Doing Hard Time by Stuart Woods

5
Enjoyed the book very much.

Thomas
Insatiable Appetites by Stuart Woods

5
I enjoyed reading this book.

Thomas
Hot Pursuit by Stuart Woods

5
I enjoyed reading this book.

Elaine
The Martian by Andy Weir

5
I loved this book even with its over load of technical terms and science explanations. I felt the author did a great job of making you believe that all of this could really happen. Great book!

Thomas
Naked Greed by Stuart Woods

5
I enjoyed reading this book. It was a good read.

Kathleen
The Sisters of Versailles by Sally Christie

5
This novel is very well researched and depicts life in France during King Louis XV's reign, which was filled with court intrigue, religious feuds, lost wars. He reigned from 1715 until his death in 1774. A very long time indeed. Before reading this novel I had not read anything about the de Nesle sisters and I found this book to be very enjoyable and look forward to the next in the trilogy, THE RIVALS OF VERSAILLES, and after that THE ENEMIES OF VERSAILLES.

LINDA
Heart of the Gladiator by Lydia Pax

5
About a daughter and a son who was praised, but he was dead now from a stupid bar fight and died in her arms as she didn't know what to do to save him. With her brother's death, her father blamed her as if it was her fault and sold her as a slave to be trained as a medica to patch up gladiators. How she loathed the brutality of it all, and she dreamed of opening her own office once she earned her freedom. Caius had earned his freedom and walked away from his past. He vowed to never return, but his wife was in labor and he needed money, so he sold himself as a gladiator slave in order to get a lot of coin. On his way, he saw a woman being abused and stepped in but saw at the last minute the tiny woman was no push over.

Lynn W
Immoveable Feast by John Baxter

4
I started my holiday reading early and have probably read the best first.

Jan
Deadline by John Sandford

5
This may be the best Virgil Flowers book yet. Virgil is returning from a fishing trip when an old buddy in southern Minnesota asks him for help in catching a gang that is stealing dogs. Now the old homeboys in Minnesota love their dogs as much as their money so Virgil stops by to help. While he is helping look for the dogs, a reporter gets murdered so Virgil has to turn to that. The plots are complex, overlapping, and conclude with one big happy dog fight, chases down the Mississippi River at night, more murders. One of Sandford's best.

Jan
Married Sex by Jesse Kornbluth

1
I expected more from this author. This is a "coming-of-age" novel about a middle-aged man. He is married, one child away at college and years ago, he made a deal with his wife that if one of them thought of having an affair, he or she should include the other. Well, it happened. Except his wife seemed to go for it and eventually moved out to live with the other woman. The book is dreary, as most coming-of-age books are, with the protagonist dwelling on what went right or wrong and trying to grow up. I am not certain that this man ever gets to the adult grown-up stage. I received a review copy from ReadingGroupGuides.com.

Francisca E B
Black Elk in Paris by Kate Horsley

2
Horsley takes a snippet of history and crafts a novel featuring a mild-mannered physician, a wealthy family’s strong-willed youngest daughter, and a displaced Lakota man in 1888 Paris. I enjoyed some of the philosophical/spiritual discussions, but on the whole the novel didn’t work for me.

Suzy
Lucky Me by Sachi Parker

3
Sachi Parker is the only child of actor Shirley MacLaine and this is her first book. From her childhood in Japan, life as the daughter of a famous American actor (I use the same term for male and female), and her own struggles as an actor, Ms. Parker writes with candor. That said, the book is not always fascinating but I appreciate her attempts to be open-minded about her mother and father, an "entrepreneur" who just doesn't seem legitimate. I liked the sections about life in Japan most of all, and the best written sections are those dealing with Ms. Parker's attempts to adjust to life as an American raised primarily in Japan by an American father.

Jamie
Moonwalking with Einstein by Joshua Foer

3
We read this for our monthly book club meeting. It was okay. We all agreed it was interesting but nothing spectacular. We did have a good discussion about memory and the techniques discussed in the book.

Thomas
Death on the High Lonesome by Frank Hayes

5
I really enjoyed reading this book. I would recommend this book to anybody.

Thomas
Mrs. Roosevelts Confidente by Susan Elia MacNeal

5
This was a very good book to read. I enjoyed the book very much.

Thomas
Conscience by Cecelia London

4
It was a good book to read.

Thomas
The Death House by Sarah Pinborough

3
I thought the book was pretty good.

Marsha
The Lock Artist by Steve Hamilton

4
Hamilton usually writes about an ex-cop in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. This stand-alone novel depicts a mute young man who has lived through a traumatic experience that left him unable to talk. It is a situation that he has imposed upon himself. He has a talent for knowing how to unlock most locks and is eventually led into a life a crime to save a girl he loves. As the novel unravels we learn how and why he is unable to speak.

Catherine
Edge of Eternity by Ken Follett

4
The final book in the trilogy serves as a massive history lesson as well as good old-fashioned storytelling. Loved how everything was wrapped up and how he kept referring to the previous generations.

Marya
Mr. Mac and Me by Esther Freud

5
Esther Freud’s MR. MAC AND ME is about Charles Rennie Mackintosh, focusing on the years he spent in Suffolk before and during the first World War. The novel follows closely the events of the lives of Mac, his wife Margaret MacDonald, her sister Frances MacDonald and Frances’s husband, Herbert MacNair. All four were great, but largely overlooked, artists. The novel is very sad as was Mac’s life, apart from his warm relationship with Margaret. Much of his work was not produced and some of the best only created from his drawings and plans long after his death. Macintosh’s art and architecture have long appealed to me. I was thrilled to visit the Glasgow School of Art, a beautiful building with amazing thought to the smallest detail.

Nancy
The Chaperone by Laura Moriarty

5
I loved this book! The story is compelling and the message is amazing. The biggest part of it is set in the 1920s and 1930s in the Midwest and in New York City. It personified an era of strict morals and a stratified society during a period of change.

LINDA
Snow Swept (Snow Swept Trilogy Book 1) by Derrick Hibbard

5
I received this book in return for an honest review, and loved it so much that I bought the rest as wanted to see how the story ended as I was HOOKED! Mae Edwards remembered the days when she was happy with her mom and dad before the darkness shattered their lives. With her dad killed, she is on the run with her mom as they both know too much, and the powerful secret agency that answers to no one, including the U. S. government, is after them! She can't trust anyone including the police, and one man has made his personal agenda to see her dead. Everyone she gets close to end up dead, but she has a powerful attraction to one stranger that helps her. She has no money and must stay ahead of the people that want her dead.

Jennifer
Little Black Lies by Sandra Block

4
I enjoyed reading this psychological thriller. I am excited this is a series, and I can follow Dr. Zoe Goldman in other storylines. The story was witty, easy-to-read, and had many roller coaster-y twists and turns. It was just the tiniest bit draggy in parts, which kept it from being a 5-star book for me. Overall, I highly recommend it to thriller fans. Note: I won this book from the author and was under no obligation to review. The opinions above are my own.

Patricia
Keeper's Reach by Carla Neggers

3
I was so excited to receive an ARC of KEEPER'S REACH and was looking forward to my first introduction to the Emma Sharpe and Colin Donovan series. Although the various points of view, especially those of Naomi and Mike, worked well and helped enrich both character analysis and plot development, I missed Emma's POV when she was kidnapped. I will add the previous books to my reading list so I can see the chemistry develop and intensify in the relationship between Emma and Colin. I recommend this book to fans of fast-paced, suspenseful, and romantic novels.

Saundra
Humans of New York: Stories by Brandon Stanton

5
I have followed Brandon Stanton on Facebook since he started HUMANS OF NEW YORK. Each photo is a story in itself. He randomly picks people off the streets of NYC and asks them for a photo and a small interview. I look at the photos over and over and see something new every time. I love this book and highly recommend it.

Wendy
The Secret Chord by Geraldine Brooks

3
Hard to follow without a full knowledge of the biblical text

Lynn
The Gates of Evangeline by Hester Young

4
While l seldom do Southern and more rarely still Gothic, this was a mysterious treat.

Barbara
Shotgun Lovesongs by Nikolas Butler

5
Wonderful tale of small towns, friends, and the paths their lives take, which eventually lead right back to their roots and their best friends forever.

Donna
King of Snowflakes by Michele Fogal

5
This is the first M/M romance I've read and I wasn't sure what to expect. I loved the story, the vulnerability of characters, the compassion of the parents. And the fact that at the core, whether the story was M/M or not, it was about how messy our feelings can be, whether we're 18-year-old boys or 48-year-old women. My favorite passage is Ryan talking to his sister: "So you think I'm bi." Ryan held very still. "I think you're Ryan, who is attracted to integrity and chutzpah and naked hearts on sleeves..." Fogal is a skilled storyteller but more importantly, she's a heartfelt human who does a beautiful job capturing the complexities of love and sex.

Eileen
The Museum of Extraordinary Things by Alice Hoffman

5
This is a fascinating story with unforgettable characters that shows all parts of life -- darkness and light, goodness and evil, and how love can overcome all the pain of the past.

Jane
Dangerous Tidings by Dana Mentink

5
Searching for his missing sister, Brent teams up with Donna who is looking for her Dad's killer. Halfway through book you will need a box of tissues. Brent hopes to find his sister alive. Hearing she was killed hits him hard. Donna believes her Dad was killed but could not convince her family til she ends up in danger. Danger abounds. I loved this book.

Jeffrey
Tennessee Williams: Mad Pilgrimage of the Flesh by John Lahr

4
Terrific, horrific biography of one our greatest playwrights. Lahr writes with white-hot fury, never letting up on the story of a crazily talented artist who burned the roman candle at both ends. If you're a theatre buff, you can't pass up this one.

Elizabeth
The Someday Jar by Allison Morgan

4
If you enjoy Sophie Kinsella, take a chance on THE SOMEDAY JAR. The story is about Lanie, a quirky real estate agent, engaged to the most eligible bachelor in town. Her fiance finds a jar of things she wanted to do in childhood all written on the back of fortunes from fortune cookies. What transpires is a host of unexpected challenges. A daughter missing her father, only to find him again. It's about growing up but realizing your dreams from that time are worth looking back on. It's a love story and a heartbreaking tale. Not too much sex or horrible language - just a sweet story you will be glad you spent the time to read.

Frank
Armada by Ernest Cline

3
This is the perfect book for anyone that grew up in the 1980s playing computer and video games, but I'm not sure how well it would sit with anyone else. It has a similar feel to READY PLAYER ONE, but it felt a little forced.

Lynn
Time of Departure by Douglas Schofield

4
A serial killer cold case under investigation which is unlike any other I've read. It had twists and turns, suspicion and romance, and I loved it all. Complex and satisfying plot and characters.

David
Hard Choices by Hillary Rodham Clinton

5
The book depicts her life as Secretary of State, and the things she learned and the influence she had on major world events. The more I read into the book, the more I admired her diplomatic and personal skills trying to solve world concerns to move the US and the world in the right direction to benefit all mankind. I would hope that others could discuss this book as well.

Sandra
Billy Bathgate by E. L. Doctorow

4
It is a coming-of-age story set in Brooklyn, about gangsters just after the end of Prohibition. An English professor would probably give Doctorow a bad grade for run-on sentences, but it didn't bother me or interfere with my understanding. The story is told with a linear timeline and one POV, that of a 15-year-old boy. Most of the action occurs in one very eventful summer. There are a couple of very graphic sex scenes and Doctorow's females characters are pretty flat, especially when compared to the multiple male characters. Overall an enjoyable read.

Jennifer
Merry Mary by Ashley Farley

5
In MERRY MARY, Scottie is a photo journalist facing some tough decisions. I enjoyed reading this snapshot in time of her life, and I was thrilled to read at the end of the book that Ashley Farley is working on a full-length novel featuring Scottie that is due out in 2016. This was a quick read and well-written. I also enjoyed the Richmond, VA location for the setting. I look forward to reading what Farley does next with Scottie.

Marian
The Hidden by Heather Graham

4
I just love the Krewe of Hunters series.

laurie
A Touch of Stardust by Kate Alcott

4
Historical fiction that takes the reader behind the scenes of the filming of Gone With the Wind -- old Hollywood details galore!

Amy
Her Last Breath by Linda Castillo

3
The book started off very grim and I wasn't sure if I wanted to read on. I'm glad I did! The mystery that unfolded and the real life conflict between the main characters pulled me in. The Amish culture was an interesting part of the story as well.

Andrew
Midnight's Furies by Nisid Hajari

4
Absorbing historical chronicle about the separation of India and Pakistan in 1948, comprehensively covering a multitude of viewpoints. Depicts a story often forgotten today, although the implications of the division of the two countries still resonate today. Provides a good foundation for understanding the Pakistani and Indian mindsets today, as well as the Hindu and Muslim mindsets, all impacted by Britain's withdrawal from India and the subsequent loss of life that occurred as the two countries tried to exert their new sovereignty. Important and interesting read.

Betty
Let Me Tell You by Shirley Jackson

4
These essays and short stories have not been previously published. Her comic essays about her family and her life as a writer were a real revelation. I didn't know this side of her writing. At some points, it was difficult to tell what was fiction and what was nonfiction. Excellent read.

Jennifer
Prisoner of the Queen by E. Knight

4
The Tudors are one of my favorite subjects. I was excited to read another book by E. Knight (also read her MY LADY, VIPER) that was written from the perspective of a lesser known member of the Tudor court. Lady Katherine Grey, sister to the 9 Days Queen, was fascinating to follow. I highly recommend this book for historical fiction fans of the Tudor period.

Gloria
Sycamore Row by John Grisham

5
The whole story keeps you on your toes trying to figure it out. I don't think anyone could. There are so many twists and turns that I didn't see comin, but I just don't think like that. I truly enjoyed every word of it!!

Deborah
Double Fudge Brownie Murder by Joanne Fluke

2
Her books always have a similar plot line and this did not deviate from it. I like them for a quick read between heavier books for a bit of a break and as I enjoy baking and cooking some of the recipes are of interest. A new beau added to the current two in the wings and mother getting married in this iteration. Then Hannan stumbles on another murder.

Lisa
Pioneer Girl by Laura Ingalls Wilder

4
Very interesting autobiography, especially for those of us who grew up reading the Little House books. I would have given it 5 stars except the intro was way too long at 50 pages and the format with the numerous footnotes on the sides of each page was distracting.

Richard N B
Destiny of the Republic by Candice Millard

5
Gripping, fascinating, and informative, Millard’s work clearly shows that she is on a par with Erik Larsen and Laura Hillenbrand when it comes to writing history with the pace of a thriller. A few short months into his presidency, James A. Garfield was shot at close range by a delusional office-seeker. The bullet didn’t kill Garfield, however. His physicians did by repeatedly introducing infectious agents into the wounds.

Ruth
The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah

5
A page-turner about two sisters living in France during WWII. Loved it!

Elizabeth
Once in a Great City by David Maraniss

3
ONCE IN A GREAT CITY is a history book, and it reads like a history book. In other words, it contains lots and lots of information, but it's not a page-turner. I want to read page-turners, so perhaps this review is not fair to David Maraniss, considering all the extensive research he did for this. This book told how, even with all the greatness of people and events in Detroit during the early 1960s, there were signs that the city was falling apart. This is not how I understood the book. Too much of it is devoted to politics at that time. And you know you have to be suspicious that an author may not be objective when he writes about politics.

Phyllis
Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert

4
Elizabeth Gilbert can do anything! After reading THE SIGNATURE OF ALL THINGS, I was surprised she came up with this nonfiction account of how she writes and lives her life. She is such an inspiration! I am a musician and always suspected it was "magic" but never heard anyone else agree with me. Recommended even if you are not in the arts because it outlines creative living for everyone.

Judy O.
Saving Sophie by Ronald H. Balson

4
Life is chaotic and tragic for Jack Sommers. His wife dies, he becomes a suspect in an embezzlement case, and his small daughter Sophie is kidnapped by her grandfather and taken to Palestine. This is an exciting book, but I did kind of get bogged down near the middle of it because of the historical background of the Palestine vs. Israel violence that the author writes about. Once the author got back to the main plot, I was thoroughly entertained by the events. Mr. Balson also wrote the book ONCE WE WERE BROTHERS, which is one of my all-time favorite books. You will enjoy both of them too.

LINDA
Battlefield Earth by L. Ron Hubbard

5
I received this book in exchange for an honest review an was amazed at the foresight of this author. This book is not a fast read, but it goes into detail of what could happen if ruthless aliens decided they wanted the riches of our planet and would stop at nothing to take them. Not even earth's combined military is enough to stop the Psychlos from achieving their mission, but one lone boy/man is captured, treated like an animal until he has the chance to save earth, but Johnnie Tyler wonders how he can achieve the impossible when all of earth's superpowers couldn't? One thing he knows is it is better to die trying than be kept in a cage as an animal.

Jenny
Coal River by Ellen Marie Wiseman

5
Another great book from a favorite author. This historical fiction set in Coal River, Pennsylvania is the story of the coal mines there in 1912. It tells of the injustices and cruelty inflicted on very young boys who are forced to work in the mines under very dangerous conditions. Emma Malloy, an orphan, is determined to expose the conditions and rescue the boys and their families. Very enjoyable, vivid characters, descriptive writing and a real page-turner.

Lynn W
Joy for Beginners by Erica Bauermeister

3
Luscious, lyrical, wise -- read it in one day.

Paula
Room by Emma Donoghue

5
An intriguing page- turner from start to finish. Amazing what the mind and body can cope with.

Susan
I Am Malala by Malala Yousafzai

5
Well written book. I couldn't put it down.

Bonnie
The Hollow Ground by Natalie S. Harnett

3
Novel based on the true story of coal fires under ground in the Centralia, PA area.

Bonnie
Natchez Burning by Greg Iles

3
Page-turner taking place in the 60s south with the racial tensions as the main character.

Bonnie
Eileen by Ottessa Moshfegh

2
Totally unlikeable main character.

Tessa B C
Being Mortal by Atul Gawunde

5
Subtitle: Medicine and What Matters in the End. Just because physicians CAN do something, should they? At what cost – not to society or to our wallets, but at what cost to our humanity and dignity? Atul Gawunde, a surgeon in Boston, Massachusetts, explores the ways in which medicine (and specifically American medicine and American society) helps and hinders the aged, the infirm, and the dying. It's a book everyone should read. It may help you start the difficult discussions all families should have.

Margarita
All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr

5
Beautifully written and compelling story. I started it all over again once I finished.

Bev
Methodical Illusion by Rebekah Roth

4
While the author is not the greatest and editing was poor, I did enjoy the book. Reading between the lines, it is very intriguing and frightening.

Claudia
Wreckage by Emily Bleeker

5
This book was not only about a plane crash but also the broken relationships of the main characters of the book. Dave and Lillian survived a plane crash in the ocean only to survive on a deserted island for almost two years. Most of the book is about the lies they told upon being rescued so that others would not be hurt. The end of the book has so many twists and turns that I could not put it down. I believe this is the author's first novel. I would definitely read another of her books.

Linda
Gillespie and I by Jane Harris

5
An unbelievable find/treasure. Glasgow, Scotland, 1888. Miss Baxter befriends the Gillespie family. Mr. Gillespie is a struggling artist, has a delightful wife and two girls. Something tragic happens and we start to wonder about the main character, Miss Baxter. Some of the chapters flash forward us to 1933 as Miss Baxter tries to explain it all to the reader. Well written, can't-put-down type. I loved this book!

Sharon
X by Sue Grafton

5
Kinsey doesn't need the money but inactivity bores her, so she takes on the task of finding a man (ex-con) who was the baby a wealthy woman gave up many years ago. Through many twists and turns, Kinsey discovers that she is the one who has been conned, that her perception of a now deceased investigator whom she thought was immoral was incorrect (to a degree), that a person she had admired was corrupt, and that her new neighbors were super con artists, willing to rip off and abuse the trust of her landlord Henry. Good read, no extreme violence or gore, delight to see the unfolding of the relationships until the end where I did think it got a bit preachy.

Sharon
Quaker Silence by Irene Allen

2
Quaker Clerk Elizabeth Elliot is certain that the homeless man of their congregation did not kill one of their leading members. An announcement that the wealthy businessman had made in worship indicated that he was making some changes in his will, changes that could negatively affect his nephew who was seeking a judgeship and his business partner as well. Elizabeth tries to talk with the local police, but finds that they had a predisposition to accuse the homeless man and did not want to consider other options. Various people were characterized to appear to have a motive for the killing, and it is up to Elizabeth to discover the truth.

Marsha
Patriot by Ted Bell

5
Lord Alexander Hawke is the 6th richest man in the UK and is also an investigator for MI6. He is working with the CIA in a joint effort to stop Putin from establishing a base in Isla de Pinos in Cuba. He and Putin were imprisoned in Russia many years ago and became friends as Putin saved his life. They have been "friends" every since. This is one of the best Lord Hawke books yet.

Sherrie
Eileen by Ottessa Moshfegh

3
Eileen is a odd and creepy kind of girl. She works in a prison for young boys, has no friends and lives with her alcoholic father who is horrible to her. She lives in her psychotic mind while stalking a guard from the prison and is the creepy girl in the neighborhood. Halfway through this story it takes a thriller turn when a new young girl come to work at the prison. Very Hitchcock-like. A short, wild ride.

Sharon
One Plus One by Jojo Moyes

4
I read this to pass the time until AFTER YOU was released. I thought it was going to be completely predictable but some of it was surprising. Of course it is girl meets boy, etc. No big surprises. I did enjoy it and it did have some very emotional parts. I would recommend it if you like Jojo Moyes books.

Rosalie
Eve by Wm. Paul Young

4
I found this book interesting but it was difficult to follow the characters at times. I liked THE SHACK much more.

LINDA
Safety Off by Dina Haynes

5
I received this book from the author in return for an honest review, and this is just Book One of the trilogy of a divorced LA cop with two kids. "Vera" had signed up for a dating site when she kicked her cheating husband out of her life. It seemed the wife was the last to know that he'd cheated with his coworkers, and she'd always wondered about the women's sneers when she walked in on his arm at his company's function. It had been hard to date or make new friends when working as a cop and as a single mom with two children. She got a "flirt" from an older man named Scott and fantasized about being with him. Scott was sick of dating twenty-something women that chatted about flavored lip gloss.

Melanie S.
The Golem and the Jinni by Helene Wecker

3
I was looking forward to reading this book because it had received such high praise in reviews, but I just never became emotionally involved with the characters and found the way the author handled time confusing. I did appreciate the research that went into the book but ultimately I felt it wasn’t worth 500+ pages of my time. I read this for a library book group; most of the other members really liked it. The discussion was actually very good, and the information shared by our facilitator was illuminating. Isn't it interesting how sometimes you can have such a great discussion about a book you didn't like?

Melanie S.
As Close to Us as Breathing by Elizabeth Poliner

4
4.5 stars. I read this for the wonderful book club brunch put on by Hachette publishers last Saturday in NYC. I enjoyed this book very much. Most simply put, it's a story of an extended Jewish family who spends their summers at an inherited beach cottage on the shore in Woodmont, CT. The characters were complex and well crafted, and the way the author handled time was not quite like any other book I had ever read before. Yet it flowed and it worked, and I marveled at the creative way the story unfolded. I grew up in CT going to many of the places mentioned in the book, which had added appeal for me on a personal level. Highly recommended when it releases in March of 2016. Remember this title!!

Lori
The Swans of Fifth Avenue by Melanie Benjamin

4
I found THE SWANS OF FIFTH AVENUE to be an interesting look at the glamorous lives of high society women in New York, and Truman Capote, as well as the dark side of all the characters. Although I wasn't particularly interested in the lives of these specific women, I thought the book raised fascinating psychological issues, and it was an atmospheric look at the time period. There were thought-provoking topics such as aging, loyalty among friends and the dangers of fame. As with many other novelizations of real people, I was concerned about the authenticity of events which would have taken place behind closed doors, but the book was atmospheric of the time period and was entertaining to read. I recommend the book for book discussion groups.

Lori
The Martian by Andy Weir

5
I was surprised how much I liked this book, and I was so glad that I finally got around to reading it. I was thrilled that the book wasn't just from the perspective of the astronaut abandoned on Mars, but also from Mission Control and his astronaut team. That added so much more interest to the book. Otherwise, it may have been just the astronaut going from one disaster to the next. I would highly recommend the book and now look forward to seeing the movie!

Lori
After You by Jojo Moyes

5
This was a sequel which didn't disappoint! I thought it was a great read and equally as good as ME BEFORE YOU. I'm glad that this book covered completely different issues even though it had some of the same characters. I would be happy to read one more book to see what ultimately happens to them. I don't think there is enough of a recap for someone to be satisfied by reading this book without having previously read ME BEFORE YOU. I would highly recommend it to fans of the previous book.

Monika
The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate

5
Ivan is a gorilla living in a shopping mall. He is used to all the visitors who gawk at him and watch him scribble on pieces of paper which are sold as souvenirs. His life changes when Ruby the baby elephant enters his life. Katherine won the Newbery Medal award with this novel.

Sandra
The Assassination of Margaret Thatcher by Hilary Mantel

2
This was my first Hilary Mantel. I probably should have started with WOLF HALL since I enjoy historical fiction. This is also the third collection of short stories I have read in the past two months (the other two being a collection by Alice Munro and a collection by Margaret Atwood). I have come to the conclusion that modern short stories just don't appeal to me. These stories were all well written and well structured, but I just didn't care about the characters; I didn't feel engaged in any of the stories, but I think it is my reaction to short story collections in general rather than this one in particular.

Patricia
Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? (And Other Concerns) by Mindy Kaling

5
Words cannot describe how much I loved this book! Reading it felt like I was sitting and chatting with my BFF. Her humor is so great. And there were so many things she said that I agreed with 100%. I can't wait to read her latest book!

Marcia
The Martian by Andy Weir

3
Yes, I know, everyone thinks this book is wonderful. You will love it, if you're an engineer. I got tired of reading about his problem-solving. I want the story about the people, not detailed accounts of his his solutions. I skimmed a lot of it.

Marcia
The Murderer's Daughter by Jonathan Kellerman

4
I liked this book. Not a page-turner that I couldn't put down, but I wanted to know what happened. I am still thinking about the main character so the book had something going for it. Well written and morbidly fascinating.

Lynn W
We Never Asked for Wings by Vanessa Diffenbaugh

4
Letty has worked three jobs, leaving her mother to raise her two children. When her parents go back to Mexico, Letty has to make the hard choice - give up or be a responsible adult, fighting to make a good life for her small family. This is a wonderful story of a family living on the edge, fending off disasters, without resources most of us take for granted. The characters are fully believable, especially 15-year-old son, Alex. Diffenbaugh, who gave us THE LANGUAGE OF FLOWERS, has crafted a second remarkable book.

Muriel
Love, Life, and Elephants by Dame Daphne Sheldrick

5
This is a memoir of Sheldrick's life in Africa and her work with animals, elephants in particular. She has saved countless African animals from certain death and was the first person to successfully raise newborn elephants. She has an authentic love for Africa and its creatures, and writes in a very interesting and informative way about them and her life with her husband David Sheldrick, the famous Tsavo National Park warden. Anyone who loves animals and wants more insight into their behavior will especially enjoy this book.

Kim
The Shadow Spinner by Susan Fletcher

5
Enjoyable.

Monika
A Gathering of Days by Joan W. Blos

5
This is a Newbery Medal winner. It is for contributors to children's literature. It is a fictional diary of Catherine who records the hardships and joys of pioneer life. She writes of the 1830s; very informative and a good read of the history of that time.

pearl
I Am So Ashamed by Joann Flanagan

5
In the wake of Rome's infamous defeat by Persia, the embattled Empire frantically scrambled to recover lost territory. The captive Emperor Valerius prayed for death to release him from his life of degradation as his Captor Saphor literally used him as a footstool by climbing on his back to mount his blooded oriental charger. Even death brought the captive Roman Emperor no release from shame or bondage for Saphor had his corpse flayed and his hide tanned and exhibited publicly as a trophy. Then Galerius built up Rome's cavalry, defeated the Persians and retrieved the royal remains for repatriation and honorable burial. A grateful Nation rewarded him by making him Tetrarch.

Bonnie
A Path Appears: Transforming Lives, Creating Opportunity by Nicholas D. Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn

5
The authors of the remarkable HALF THE SKY have done it again. I defy anyone to read this and not want to go out and volunteer or donate to make a difference in this world we share. Full of case studies and success stories, as well as some not-so-successes, this book covers philanthropy and volunteerism and how to make them accountable and successful. I can't recommend this book highly enough. And, do yourself a favor and read HALF THE SKY as well -- it's searing, eye-opening, and full of optimism.

Tessa B C
Nights of the Red Moon by Milton T. Burton

3
2.5 stars. Caddo County (TX) Sheriff Bo Handel’s coffee-and-newspaper morning is interrupted by the discovery of the local minister’s wife’s body on the parsonage front yard – with three bullet holes in her back. Things get complicated quickly. I like the characters a lot, and I like Burton’s style of writing, but I think the plot got away from him. Still, I’d be willing to try another of his works.

Michelle
Natchez Burning by Greg Iles

4
A hard core mystery. I really liked the main characters and I'm anxious to find out what happens to them in the next book. The author apparently lives in the area that he is writing about and as a result the story has an authentic feel to it. His ability to convey not only the people and places involved in the story but also the history and traditions of the area really make this book. It is especially important since the plot contains not only a current unsolved murder but unsolved historical murders as well. This book interweaves so many characters and stories together that the reader becomes completely engaged in the complexity of the story and the pages fly by. I can't wait to get my hands on the sequel.

Linda
Frank: A Life in Politics from the Great Society to Same-Sex Marriage by Barney Frank

4
Barney Frank narrates his book perfectly written for a political news junkie such as myself. I only knew of Frank since he became a national figure and therefore did not know about his background. I appreciate that once Barney Frank understood that he was a Jewish gay man with speech difficulties he did not let those things hold him back for working for his constituents. I want to read the physical book so more sticks in my addled head.

Shelley
All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr

5
An easy read that really connects you to the characters. Surprise ending.

Marsha
The Forgotten by David Baldacci

5
This fast-paced page-turner features Army Special Agent John Puller, who is tasked by his father, Army General Ret., to check into his aunt's request to find out what is happening in her Florida town that is highly suspicious. When he arrives in Florida he finds his aunt is dead and he is suspects homicide. As the story progresses we are led into a violent world of smuggling and more.

Jan
The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh

5
This is a bittersweet book about the mistakes of humans, especially in the foster home industry. Much of the book is painful to read about the troubled Victoria. She is rarely treated well, and when she is, she reacts in negative and hostile ways. She never trusts anyone - yet, hope continues. Some might see this as a happy book but the totality of foster care is abysmal and is portrayed here. This is a debut novel and I expect more from this gifted author. The prose flows. Excellent book for book group discussions.

Vikki
At the Water's Edge by Sarah Gruen

3
You have to muddle through the spoiled brats part of the book, but that's the whole point of the story. The main character becomes more evolved and finds happiness in the process.

Ann
For the Roses by Julie Garwood

5
Three young boys find an abandoned baby in a New York City alley. They move to Montana and raise her as their sister. A page-turner. I really enjoyed the family dynamic and the drama involved.

Judy O.
The Last Midwife by Sandra Dallas

5
The year is 1888 and Gracy is the only midwife in a small mining town in Colorado. When Gracy is charged with the murder of a baby, she is devastated. This is the story of Gracy and her husband Daniel during this terrible time in their lives. It has an interesting plot twist at the end. I have read many good Dallas-written books, and I've always enjoyed them.

Francisca E B
The Ghost Bride by Yangsze Choo

3
Choo’s debut novel is an unusual mix of historical fiction (set in 1893 Malacca), Chinese folklore, magical realism and paranormal romance. I was totally immersed in the sights, sounds, smells of the culture and fascinated by the folklore and afterlife mythology. I thought Choo did a marvelous job setting the scene and bringing the colonial era to life. However, I found Li Lan a frustratingly puzzling character. Still, I appreciated much about Choo’s writing style and would definitely try another of her books.

Hedi
The Jewish Dog by Asher Kravitz

5
This is a funny and sad book all in one. One of the best I read in a long time. Told in the voice of a dog, Cabel, born in Germany in 1935. I guess that information pretty much tells you the storyline. It is a beautiful story. The ending fits the story a few years after the war in Israel. Mr. Kravitz is a best-selling author in Israel and the first time published in English. For dog lovers of all languages.

Monika
The Best Laid Plans by Sidney Sheldon

5
A U.S. president kills several women with the drug ecstasy. A woman scorned could be the title for this book. Sidney was such a wonderful storyteller; one of my favorites.

LINDA
Angel Fire (The Ryan Chronicles Book 5) by J. E. Taylor

5
I was given this book in return for an honest review, and I'm sad that the story read "The End"! Book Five captured my heart and I almost cried at Tom's loss. Tom Ryan was trying to hold it together after the loss of his wife, and only his little girl needing him kept him from joining his wife. Lucifer's plan to kill every Angel descendant's blood relative and return to his former self, leaving Tom doing the unmentionable betrayal to save Hannah from the devil's grip. As Tom flies to Greece, he must channel his desires for a woman he barely knows and hide his intentions from his best friend.

Becky
The Forgotten Room by Karen White, Beatriz Williams and Lauren Willig

4
I read this as an eBook from NetGalley and the publisher. I wish I had read a print copy. It was difficult to keep the characters straight --- which one was Lucy, which one was the doctor, which one was the maid, how were they connected. That said, I enjoyed this three-part novel with interconnected heroines. Some of the secrets I guessed, some I didn’t until the big reveal. I liked that the some items became more important (for example, the ruby necklace) as you continued to read. The ending was a little too contrived, but it worked for the novel, which doesn't release until January 19th.

Sally-Jo
Rebecca by Daphne Du Maurier

4
Interesting character development. I enjoyed this book.