This contest period's winners were Cynthia J., Diana T., Jayme G., Judy O. and Mary G., who each received a copy of HIS RIGHT HAND: A Linda Wallheim Mystery Set in Mormon Utah by Mette Ivie Harrison, HOUSE OF THE RISING SUN by James Lee Burke, and SPLINTER THE SILENCE: A Tony Hill and Carol Jordan Novel by Val McDermid.
Sean
Sudden Prey by John Sandford
This installment in the Lucas Davenport series is oddly timely in 2015 with the rash of police shootings that have been in the news recently. Here, the actions of the police and their repercussions are dealt with but taken to the next level. While we get the typical serial killer with movie-level evil intentions, John Sandford does offer a possibly scarier version of evil, which is just a guy who feels wronged and with nothing to lose. I love reading Sandford's whole take on Davenport's squad and the dealings between them, the local politicians, and the media. We're also given insight into some of the personal lives due to the nature of the crimes here. Overall, I really enjoyed this book, I just wish we were given more at the end.
Cynthia
The Guilty One by Sophie Littlefield
THE GUILTY ONE is an understatement - nearly every character in this novel is dealing with some sort of guilt and grief. The story involves a combination of characters whose lives intersect due to a series of unusual circumstances. Granted, the female protagonist's life has come apart at the seams - her daughter has been murdered, her husband is divorcing her, she is losing her well-manicured life - but I never truly understood her driving need to hide her identity. The storyline bogged down at points, and the back-and-forth shifts between the two primary threads became tiresome rather than increasing my interest. I found myself expecting some big secret to be revealed - but it never came - resulting in a sense of general disappointment.
Shelley
My Brilliant Friend by Elena Ferrante
Loved the characters, found the writing style difficult. Many club members found the book tedious. Ending was powerful.
Laurie
13 Ways of Looking at a Fat Girl by Mona Awad
I laughed and cried reading this dysfunctional family tale focusing on the heartbreaking trauma of Lizzie's struggle with her weight.
Kay
The Nature of the Beast by Louise Penny
Another wonderful thriller from this beloved author!
Dorothy
Mrs. Roosevelt's Confidante by Susan Elia MacNeil
This is the latest excellent installment in the Maggie Hope series of WWII mysteries. An American girl in London who finds herself part of Churchill's inner circle, she goes from typist to spy in the previous stories. Now she has made the dangerous Atlantic crossing with her old Boss Churchill, posing as his secretary but also ending up being taken under the wing of Mrs. Roosevelt, who is being threatened by scandal. Her two friends, David and John, are also part of the entourage and finding wartime Washington D.C. quite a change from embattled Britain. John, a wounded British officer, is a magnet for the social set and others. A suspicious death is investigated and an innocent man faces execution.
Michael
The Quiet Game by Greg Iles
One of the best books I have read in years! I love a good legal thriller - this book is a GREAT legal thriller. There are so many surprising twists and turns in the plot. I found myself looking for time in my schedule so I could read more. This book is the beginning of a series, which is good news to me because I wanted more at the end of the book. Greg Iles has a new fan.
Beatrice
The Ice Cream Blonde by Michelle Morgan
Very interesting true story about a Thelma Todd, who was beautiful inside and out. She worked hard and accomplished so much as a comedian and actress. I hated that her life was taken from her so young.
Peggy
Golden Age by Jane Smiley
I wish this saga could go forever. Smiley has managed to keep an incredible cast of characters interesting and informative.
Lois
A Banquet of Consequences by Elizabeth George
Elizabeth George just keeps getting better. This book gives Havers a chance to show herself in a hopeful way. Lynnley and Winston are great, too. As for the plot, wow, hang onto your hat. I loved the book.
shelly
A Moment on the Lips by Jennifer Faye
If you have read any of the other books in the series you will not be surprised to learn how Ms. Faye has a way of connecting some of the most unlikely people to find true happiness. Piper Noble is moving on with her life, cancelling her engagement with the Mayor's son. What she discovered was that not only was he cheating on her but he was trying to turn her into something she was not. She was constantly watching her weight which was putting a stressful burden on herself, not to mention trying to be something she did not want to be. Now free and possibly a few pounds overweight, who could blame her with all the delicious goodies she bakes at Poppin Fresh Bakery; she is happy for the first time in her life.
Frank
Church of Marvels by Leslie Parry
Set in New York in the early part of the 20th Century, Leslie Parry's debut novel is much more than an historical novel. The title refers to a sideshow theater on Coney Island of the same name. The central characters of the book all have their own mysteries to solve while trying to locate and solve the mystery of a fourth. If this all sounds confusing, don't worry. Even though this is a debut novel, the writing is amazing and the storytelling is fantastic. It is a great read and well worth the time.
Liz
A Redbird Christmas by Fannie Flagg
Oswald T. Campbell is given just a few months to live. On the advice of his doctor he moves to a small town in Alabama where he is instantly accepted by the town's 108 residents. He befriends Patsy, a young girl abandoned by her family and in need of multiple surgeries. What happens on the day after Christmas is a true miracle. This is a wonderful story, especially for this time of year.
LINDA
Gorgon Book 2 by Geoffrey Saign
I was given this ARC in return for an honest review, and although I never read Book One I really enjoyed Book Two as I rapidly read to see how the two teens struggled for success, and I can't wait to read the next! Samantha Green, her dad, Jake and his mom were celebrating Jake's birthday but he looked far away and unhappy. He did seem excited when their parents announced they were getting married. He didn't even want dessert, and said they needed to talk and flew up to her room. When she assured Cynthia that she would see what troubled him, he wanted to talk about his visions. Well, she was having nightmares, too, about their previous fight with a power hungry enemy who wanted to control KiraKu.
Suzy
The Firm by John Grisham
Still my favorite of John Grisham's books and I've read them all. If you are interested in "lawyer' books, and Grisham is the best in my opinion, I would start with this book then read A TIME TO DIE. This book was so intriguing I could not put it down and once again read into the wee hours. I never spoil but I sure did not see the end coming, and I'm usually pretty good at figuring them out.
Nancy
All the Single Ladies by Dorthea Benton Frank
Three women become friends when a friend of theirs dies from cancer. She left Suzanne her estate. When they go to pick up her things, they feel her landlady has been stealing from her. In going though her things, they find out Kathy has a past they did not know about. Besides doing this together, they have personal problems that need fixing.
Mary
Rogue Lawyer by John Grisham
Not as mind gripping as some of his older titles. I could put this one down. Took me a while to realize he was tying all the little shorts together.
Mona
The Wrong Man by Kate White
Although bold and innovative in her professional life, Kit's personal life is just the opposite. She resolves to change this while on a business/pleasure trip to the Florida Keys. She strikes up a flirtation with Matt Healy, an attractive stranger staying at the same hotel. Coincidentally, he also lives in Manhattan and invites her to his place for dinner after they get back in town. Excited and anticipating another romantic evening, Kit is shocked when another man, who she doesn't recognize, opens the door claiming to be Matt Healy.
Judtih
The Forgotten Girls by Sara Blaedel
Once not so long ago in Denmark, children with mental or physical challenges were sent to live apart from their families. Parents were discouraged from visiting and gradually these children were forgotten. A young woman is found dead in the woods, and Inspector Louise Rick must unravel the mystery as the bodies mount.
SHELIA
Fort Worth: Outpost on the Trinity by Oliver Knight
A solid, factual rendering of the early history of Fort Worth up until about 1953. Not too in-depth in any one particular area but with enough specific human interest stories to make it more than just a reporter's account. An update written by his journalist co-reporter, Cissy Stewart Lale, covers the period forward to ~1990 in the areas of corporate and cultural development. Fort Worth has had a very unique, colorful, juxtapositioned past, not duplicated in any other city that I am aware of. All the while we have kept our small town feel, in spite of our international acclaim in several areas. Quite an unplanned feat, but pride-worthy just the same.
SHELIA
Iodine: Why You Need It, Why You Can't Live Without It by Dr. David Brownstein
An absolute must-read for anybody! On average 96% of all people worldwide are deficient in iodine. There are several reasons for this. It has been removed from our food, such as bread, and been replaced by bromide, which inhibits thyroid and iodine functions, as well as do fluoride and chloride. The RDA is set 100x too low. Our soil does not have it. Our diets are inadequate. Iodized salt is refined and you would need to eat 10 GRAMS to get enough. Doctors are NOT being taught about iodine and its SAFE uses as they were 100 years ago. Iodine is in every cell of your body. It is a detoxifier. It is cheap. Get this book from your library if nothing else. Your children need it also as lack thereof can cause mental retardation.
Pauline
The Nature of the Beast by Louise Penny
THE NATURE OF THE BEAST is a compelling mystery with remarkable depth of characters. It is a thoughtful, intriguing tale taken from real events. Penny paints verbal pictures, and sometimes we see people who are a lot different from what we thought they were. In this she explores the emotional state of the killer who is damaged goods. Real events invade quiet hidden Three Pines, Quebec where Armand Gamache has retired from being the former head of homicide for Surete du Quebec. Nine-year-old Laurent Lepage with an unbelievable imagination tries to tell the people that he has discovered a huge gun hidden in the dense woods nearby. They don't believe him till it is too late and the boy is found murdered.
Penny is a master storyteller.
Jayme
Above Us Only Sky by Michele Young-Stone
If you are thinking about reading this book because the main character Prudence was born with wings and you think this would be a fun magical realism book, check your expectations at the door. Though there is some "flights of fantasy' within the book the storyline centers on the country and people of Lithuania during WWII when their nation's wings were clipped by Germany and Russia. This is a beautifully written story about a young woman who finds the wings to soar only when she discovers that she is her family's history. Highly recommend.
Jayme
Fugitive Pieces by Anne Michaels
This may be one of the hardest books to discuss because I liked the poetic style of the writing and the idea of the book - how we hold lose forever, but when the narrator switched ¾ of the way in and I spent the rest of the book trying to figure out who “Ben” was – I lost interest. As I mentioned I loved the poetic style of Michaels’ writing and there were several lines that were mesmerizing. For instance, when describing a village destroyed by the Nazis, ”A place so empty it was not even haunted.” Breathtaking. But even the wistful poetic melancholy became too much and I found myself skipping passages trying to get to the meat of the story. For all my grumblings, I am giving it 3 stars because the writing was hauntingly beautiful.
Richard N B
The Boys in the Boat by Daniel James Brown
At the 1936 Olympics, nine working-class boys from the University of Washington in Seattle took the gold medal in eight-man crew at the Berlin Olympics. This is their story, but particularly the story of the man in the #7 seat – Joe Rantz. It’s a marvelous story, inspiring and heartfelt, and Brown does a superb job telling it.
Barry
The Good Neighbor by A. J. Banner
Thoroughly enjoyed this book. The author gifted the book to me. This has definitely been the best book I have read all year. Easy read with the plot changing page after page. I recommend this book highly. Full of mystery and when you think you know who is guilty, the plot changes again. Love this book and A. J. is the best!
Bev
Calling Me Home by Julie Kibler
Interest premise but this offering has all the earmarks of a first novel. Flat style and derivative plot. The two main characters, however, were charming and engaging. To be totally fair, I was the only person in our book group who was disappointed with this novel.
Betty
Post Captain by Patrick O'Brian
The second in the wonderful Aubrey/Maturin series, set at sea during the Napoleonic Wars.
Marie
Bone Hook by Toby Neal
Wow! Definitely addicted to Toby Neal's books. Lei's husband Michael signs on for a 6-month classified position somewhere unknown, thinking this will help deal with his PTSD and alcohol issues and is captured. Cliffhanger ending. Lei is also working on a case of a murder involving someone who is trying to protect Hawaii from fish poachers that also leads her to a meth case. Love the mystery and suspense that also intertwines with Hawaii's history and culture. Can't wait for the next book.
Wendy
A Brief History of Seven Killings by Marlon James
The first part of this book is set in Kingston, Jamaica in 1976 when violence between ghetto groups is at an all-time high. Even The Singer (never named but acknowledged to be Bob Marley) is targeted. A number of different narrators from Ghetto Don to a CIA operative give their version of events. The remainder of the book follows the perpetrators of the attack on The Singer. It's gritty and violent but the writing is so compelling that I kept reading. It won the Man Booker Prize this year.
Lisa
After You by Jojo Moyes
I was glad to have read the next part of this story. The first book seemed to have a better flow in the ease of writing and the telling of the story- it came from the heart. So much so, that readers demanded to know more about what happened to Louisa. Loved the additional insight to her quirky family and even Lily. This story felt a bit more contrived, but glad Jojo helped us with a bit of closure. Could there be a part three- ME AGAIN?
Susan
The Murder House by James Patterson and David Ellis
A great mystery story with lots of plot twists. It kept me guessing up until the end.
Tessa B C
One Amazing Thing by Chitra Divakaruni
3.5*** I was immediately caught up in the “present day” story of these nine people trapped in a basement. I liked the way that the author revealed their strengths and weaknesses as they acted / reacted to the situation. But when they begin telling “one amazing thing” from their lives, the story arc lost momentum, and it became more of a collection of short stories. I don’t mind this too much, because I love short stories, and Divakaruni writes them well. However, this sort of hybrid between a short story collection and a novel seemed a little awkward.
Ivy
Make Me by Lee Child
Slow and suspenseful with Reacher traversing along picking up pieces in the sleepy town of Mother's Rest, where its meaning has an eerie clue to the bigger puzzle.
helen
We Never Asked for Wings by Vanessa Diffenbaugh
A wonderful book club read, good discussion!!
Linda
The Liar's Club by Mary Karr
Mary Karr looks back on her dysfunctional upbringing by a mother with multiple marriages and her loyal father. Most heart wrenching is the end of the book when we are allowed to read about the death of the mother's father while Karr's own father is failing. This book has been sitting on my shelf for too long. I'm glad I finally got to it.
Linda
All the Stars in the Heavens by Adriana Trigiani
I really really liked this book. It's Adriana Trigianni's imagining the love affair between Loretta Young and Clark Gable. Other stars, especially Spencer Tracy and David Niven have roles in the book. The book stretches from the early 1930s until a few months after Young's death in 2000. The tone seemed correct, the dialogue of the different stars seemed spot on. A good read.
Marsha
Break In by Dick Francis
This is an oldie but a goody. Kit Fielding is trying to right the wrong done to his twin sister's husband whose family is a long time rival of his family. There are newspaper columnists writing derogatory and financially damaging lies about her husband's stables. Kit is a well-known jockey who has a knack for solving problems. Written in 1984, it is still relevant today.
Linda
The Murderer's Daughter by Jonathan Kellerman
The book started out slow but as the story progressed, it got a lot better. Born to two illiterates who were stoned most of the time, Grace Blades raised herself. She grew up in various foster homes till she ended up with a couple who were aware of her extreme intelligence. She earned her doctorate in psychology in her twenties and opened a practice in LA. When her latest patient is found murdered, Grace starts investigating and finds that they were both in the same foster home. Is this connection responsible for the murder?
Linda
The Last Time I Saw Her by Karen Robards
Like Dr. Charlie Stone, I fell in love with the character of Michael Garland, who was unjustly accused of being the Southern Slasher, was sentenced to prison, and was killed in prison but not before his soul connected with Charlie. Charlie and Michael are so much in love it is a shame that he had to be a ghost. In this book, Charlie finds that Michael has an identical twin and questions whether the twin could be the slasher, but it takes a slashing arm to come down on her for Charlie and Michael to finally find the truth.
Linda
A Paris Apartment by Michelle Gable
I was really looking forward to this book only to be disappointed in it. THE PARIS APARTMENT was leased to Marthe de Florian, a courtesan who lived in Paris in the late 1800s. It was closed up for 70 years until opened by her heirs. The story is true although the characters of April and Luc are fiction. April is sent to catalog the furniture in the apartment and soon becomes entranced by the diaries written by the former owner. The book went from April’s time back to Marthe’s time and was too much back and forth.
Linda
The Wild Inside by Christine Carbo
A dead man is found duct-taped to a tree in Glacier National Park. During the autopsy, the pathologist finds the man had been shot but he was mauled and killed by a grizzly. An investigator for the Department of Interior has been sent to investigate. This investigation brings back memories for the investigator of when he and his father were on a camping trip and a grizzly carried his father off and killed him. He will never forget hearing the screams of his father. Now he is battling not only bad memories but also politics involving the different factions of the park hierarchy in solving the murder.
Judy O.
We Are Called to Rise by Laura McBride
This was a wonderful story! We meet a woman losing her marriage, a soldier in rehab in a hospital after Iraq, and a little immigrant boy and his family. First McBride tells us their stories, and then she weaves all these people together in a stunning way. The writing is just beautiful and affecting. I had to wipe away tears more than once.
Vikki
Bastards: A Memoir by Mary Anna King
I think the beginning chapters were interesting, but then it got a little flat as the author met each of her siblings. I just had a feeling there was so much more that wasn't said in this memoir. Got this at the library. Yesterday, I'm at the librarian's desk and she said, "You have something overdue that I can't renew." I said "I'm sure you don't want to say the name of the book that's overdue." She said "You're right, it begins with a B." We all laughed.
alexis
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
Reread the book, but just watched movie version and thought Amy Dunne was totally frightening because I do think there may be people like her and we don't know it. In the book both of them seem less scary. But I do think Gillian Flynn is a terrific talent.
Suzy
The Ice Twins by S. K. Tremayne
This is the best thriller I've read in a very long time. I was drawn to this book because of the title as I am a twin, and this book surely did not disappoint. This story will stay with you long after you finish it. I gave it 5 stars and highly recommend it.
Lynn W
Day of Vengeance (Dorothy Martin #15) by Jeanne M. Dams
Love this series and this one is the best so far.
LINDA
Passing Though Perfect by Bette Lee Crosby
I received this book in exchange for an honest review, and although this is book three I can't help but think how Ms. Crosby can top it with book four! Benjamin Church left Grinders Corner Alabama as a skinny boy with thoughts to join the Army to learn how to become a pilot, but instead he learned how to fix planes. It was 1946 and the war had ended. Two years earlier he'd learned that his mom had died, so he returned home to help his father with the farm, giving up his dream. As he walked he could see that the town had never changed. Then he saw his house and dad standing on the porch, dropped his duffle bag and ran to his dad to give him a hug. Times were tough for the poor residence both black and white.
Bonnie
Along the Infinite Sea by Beatriz Williams
This was an okay chick lit novel, but I didn't find it particularly compelling.
Marsha
Second Wind by Dick Francis
This is an interesting book about weather, hurricanes, racetrack people and arranging for the sale of uranium on the black market. Not things the average person knows a great deal about.
Tamara
The Martian by Andy Weir
This book is wildly entertaining. Why? The main character, Mark Watney, is as clever as MacGyver, but funnier. While battling seemingly insurmountable odds, Watney uses his vast knowledge, skills, and intelligence to solve problem after problem and doesn't let miscalculations and accidents deter him from his goal.
Trezeline
Buried Angels by Camilla Lackberg
Again another page-turner by a really great author. In this book, as usual, very strange things happen and there seems to be no motive or no connections other than Patrick's gut feelings. Little by little information comes forth that allows clarity to begin to grow until finely everything is revealed. A very good mystery which remains mysterious until the end. A very good read.
Francisca E B
The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt
3.5 stars. There is much about this novel to like, and several things not to like. In the end, I’m struggling with how to rate it because of these conflicting issues. I like the way Tartt writes, particularly the way she so vividly depicts the scenes in this book, but I thought the book needed stronger editing. How often must we read about their drunken episodes to get the point? And I was really unhappy with the ending.
Marilyn
Along the Infinite Sea by Beatriz Williams
Historical fiction with lots of romantic subplots--will appeal to women who love romance set against a historical background.
Judy
Water from My Heart by Charles Martin
Charles Martin never disappoints and this book is no exception. A wonderful read!
Sharon
The Wild Girl by Kate Forsyth
Sometimes I felt that the book was pretty repetitive in the anguish experienced by Dortchen and Wilhelm when their love was thwarted, first by Dortchen's father, then by her own inability to trust following sexual abuse. The living situations described by the author are almost unbelievable. That people endured near starvation and intense cold for so long as well as the constant threat of violence by the armies of Napoleon and the Russians is almost unbelievable. I don't dispute the authenticity of the descriptions of the times, but it was so brutal that I suspect it may have influenced me into giving this a lesser rating that it may have deserved -- but ratings are pretty subjective anyway.
Linda
Weird Things Customers Say in Bookstores by Jen Campbell and Greg McLeod
Similar to Lay's potato chips, you can't read just one page. Short sweet book of anecdotes that really happened in bookstores around the world. You will either laugh or shake your head. Occasionally, you will do both.
Phyllis
The Guest Room by Chris Bohjalian
THE GUEST ROOM is a gripping mix of the tragedies of human trafficking and its exploitation of children by turning them into sex slaves and of how bad decisions can change lives and relationships.
Judson
The Fallen Angel by Daniel Silva
Gabriel Allon returns, this time to stop a planned bombing by Hezbollah. Excellent, fast-paced adventure, as are all of Silva's books.
Mary
The Quiet Game by Greg Iles
This novel introduces Penn Cage, a Houston prosecutor who returns with his daughter to Natchez, MS following the death of his wife. He investigates the murder of a black man 30 years earlier, in 1968, despite warnings to leave it alone. Risking libel charges, Cage openly accuses a local bigwig of ordering the murder. The appearance of his first love, complicated by attraction to the local newspaper publisher, add to the drama. Penn gets results and finds happiness in his home town. Penn Cage is a recurring character in Iles' novels, currently in NATCHEZ BURNING, the first in a proposed trilogy.
Frank
The Fair Fight by Anna Freeman
It's hard to believe that this is a debut novel - the writing is that good. THE FAIR FIGHT is the story of two British women in the 18th century that find themselves in the boxing ring. It is far more than just an historical novel. It is a wonderful story filled with great characters.
Jane
Zen Pencils by Gavin Aung Than
Wonderful cartoon renderings of inspirational quotes.
Linda
I Work at a Public Library: A Collection of Crazy Stories from the Stacks by Gina Sheridan
A collection of things heard in the library. I even learned something that benefited me a few hours later in another book. (A set of initials that probably any teenager would know had escaped me. I asked a friend who has teenagers and she knew immediately.) Fast, light read. I hope MY librarians don't think of me the way some of the patrons in this book come across.
Elaine
Circling the Sun by Paula McLain
Excellent reading, much to discuss if you read with your book club.
Deborah
The Edge of Lost by Kristina McMorris
This book grabs you from page one and won't let go. I became invested in the characters, especially Shan, the main character. The characters come to life right off the pages and you know them, you really know them! They are well developed and true to life. This could truly be the biography of an Irish immigrant, that is how it reads. I love how the author integrated real places and people into the book. The story flows effortlessly from start to finish and is hard to put down once you begin. You will feel like you are at Alcatraz and all the others places this book takes you. I love a book that combines fact and fiction; it makes for a more intriguing read. This is a must-read book. Ms. McMorris is a very gifted storyteller.
LINDA
Where the Road Takes Me by Jay McLean
I won this book; it sounded so good. Blake Hunter ran in the park with his eyes closed. He knew each step as he ran most nights to clear his head. He was a basketball star in high school. He has it all on the outside as people look at him thinking he had it all, but he never let anyone see beyond his protective wall. One night as he ran with his eyes closed, he ran into something soft and warm, then he heard a mphf. Chloe ran from the jerk in the park into a hard brick hall, and fell on her butt, losing a shoe and bruising her hands. All she wanted was to become someone else for the night. She had plans for her future, to hit the road. She promised herself not let anyone in or get too close.
Brenda
The Bees by Laline Paull
I am not sure if I would have picked up this book on my own or not. I am glad this book was picked for a group read. I think it was the unique setting that pulled me into the story and cheered me on to finish the book. In some places I felt the author made the "Bee" characters too human. Looking back, there was no way to get around their human interactions. The characters had to have feelings. There was an undertone of spirituality that also made this story unique. There was a few parts of this book I struggled to get through, so that is why I rated this book in the middle.
Susan
Circling the Sun by Paula McLain
Perfect book group reading. I liked it but didn't love it. I read it as it has become a popular read among my friends.
Jayme
Christmas Eve at Friday Harbor by Lisa Kleypas
It is what it is. A delightful, feel good Christmas story to help you forget all the books you read this year with unhappy endings.
Tessa B C
Murder Must Advertise by Dorothy L. Sayers
2.5 stars. Book #10 in the Lord Peter Wimsey mystery series. I’ve never read any of this series before, and though I see the potential (a likable main character – witty, wealthy, smart, charismatic) I just wasn’t captivated by the story. It seemed to take forever to get interesting, and I was bored with much of it. I finished only because it fulfilled a book group challenge.
Nina
The Sound of Glass by Karen White
THE SOUND OF GLASS is a must-read. Wonderful character development with lots of family secrets make for a compelling storyline.
Karen
Pretending to Dance by Diane Chamberlain
I have read many of Diane Chamberlain's novels and this latest stands among the best. It is beautifully written, alternating from the point of view of Molly as a teenager and Molly as an adult. It is a coming-of-age novel dealing with many important and compelling themes such as open adoption and assisted suicide.
Sherrie
The Daddy Diaries by Joshua Braff
Sometimes funny and sometimes "could this really happen" story of a family relocated becase of job and a change in roles, daddy stays home and mommy goes to work.
Donna
A Line of Blood by Ben McPherson
A family - a husband, wife and eleven-year-old son - begins to learn many secrets between them when a neighbor is found dead, electrocuted in his bath tub. Was it a suicide or murder? I learned about the secrets throughout the story. I only gave the book 2 stars as I figured out the answer near the beginning of the story.
Pamela
All the Single Ladies by Dorthea Benton Frank
Four stars for the mix of humor and sassy older women. This is perfect entertainment fiction, with handsome men (with money, of course) and the complications of friends and family.
Vikki
Girls Like Us by Rachel Lloyd
Informative book about the commercial sexual exploitation of children.
Helen
Pretty Girls by Karin Slaughter
PRETTY GIRLS is one of the most brutal books I have ever read. It really is the stuff of nightmares and I would only recommend it to the strong of heart. The plot itself was well done and the characters were very real. Unfortunately all too real. This was a really interesting mystery with several plot turns that made it exciting. However, the graphic descriptions of torture, etc. were a bit too much for me. Couldn't get it out of my head.
Linda
Last Night in Montreal by Emily St. John Mandel
I found the book to be predictable. It was an interesting story, but I am not a big fan
of the way the author jumped back and forth in time. Mostly the writing was very good.
Melanie S.
When the Moon Is Low by Nadia Hashimi
Exiting yet heart-wrenching story of family who flees Afghanistan to live a free life away from Taliban rule. It is more of a refugee story than an immigrant story and brings to light what refuges are willing to do and must sometimes go through so they can hopefully live free lives. A worthwhile read.
LINDA
Tree of Life and Death by Gin Jones and Elizabeth Ashby
I was given this ARC in return for a fair and honest review. I sew and have a little knowledge of quilts. Keely Fairchild had quit her job as a lawyer when she was diagnosed with a disease that sent her to a place where she didn't need to stress about her clients, and she moved to Danger Cove. It really was a small town where everyone knew each other, and she accidentally ended up investigating a murder. She was honored to be asked to give free appraisals by the Historical Museum when they began to make their miniature ornaments for their Christmas tree. Keely could hardly hold a needle and was glad she'd not been asked to sew. When the owner of The Tree of Life quilt is fatally stabbed to death, she finds herself in the middle.
Tessa B C
Lulu's Christmas Story by Ludmilla Bollow
The subtitle says it all: A True Story of Faith and Hope During the Great Depression. It’s a charming memoir of a time gone by.
Lynn W
The Secret Chord by Geraldine Brooks
The author brings King David to life; brilliant, beautiful, talented, but also very flawed. The story is narrated by the prophet Nathan, and while it's historical fiction, felt very plausible.
Betty
Tangled Vines by Frances Dinkelspiel
As a native Californian, I found this book to be very interesting. I don't usually read non-fiction but this one held my interest as it was about the history of wine making through the history of California. Wine making here has had many ups and down...prohibition and just plain bad years for grapes have played a big part. Weather, disease, and poor practices also factor into an iffy way to earn a living. I was amazed to learn of wineries in Orange County and surrounding areas as I have only know of them in the Central and Northern California areas. Really...a good read.
Debbie
The Haunted Season by G. M. Malliet
This is one of those cozy mysteries that permeates a sense of well-being with every word. I adore listening to the audiobook, as I can knit as I hear the novel, making me feel doubly productive. This novel utilizes the movie "Strangers on a Train" as attempting to commit a murder, but providing an alibi. The characters run the gamut from silly to evil, and all the adjectives in between the mix. Max Tudor solves a mystery introduced in earlier novels concerning the killing of his past partner. The description of the English countryside and the events of this small community endear this series to the reader. A nice story that does not leave fear and suspicion in the reader's mind.
Debbie
Save the Date by Mary Kay Andrews
I have thoroughly enjoyed reading Mary Kay Andrews, but this book fell short. The main character, Cara Kryzik, labors under the strains of Hercules. No woman has had so many pitfalls as Cara that trouble should be her middle name. Also, Cara cannot accept the Golden Fleece thrown at her feet. The characters seem to flit back and forth in their roles as sometimes good and sometimes bad; no character remains with outstanding traits. Money seems to grow on trees according to the behavior of both Cara and Jack, but yet, Cara is always bemoaning the fact that she owes her father a small fortune. People from other Mary Kay Andrews' books are quickly mentioned as potential customers for Cara's floral business.
Patricia
Too Close to Home by Linwood Barclay
This book was really good. I didn't love it quite as much as I did his first, but it was still a solid read. I figured out the ending before it was revealed, which always makes a book lose a few points. But other than that, it was really enjoyable. The characters are well written and the storyline was believable. Will definitely keep reading Linwood Barclay!
Jan
The Bone Tree by Greg Iles
If Greg Iles writes it, I read it. This is second of a trilogy about Natchez and the families we have grown to love, hate, or trust in previous books. Penn Cage is mayor of Natchez; his father, the beloved Dr. Cage has been accused of murder. And a black man from Chicago appears and says that he is Dr. Cage's son by his black nurse decades ago. She left Natchez and lived in Chicago but returned to Natchez to die. Iles lives in the south and knows about the Klan and the silence of bigotry that white and black people live with. This novel continues some of the angst, the frustration, the anger that many people of the south have when living with decades of silent bigotry. This novel follows NATCHEZ BURNING.
LINDA
No Regrets by Emma Fawkes
I was given this novella in return for an honest review. Olivia Radcliff was not one to be impressed easily, especially with men. All she knew about her dad was his name in a book and how he left to pursue a musical career. Her mom worked hard to give her everything she needed and she vowed to take care of her once she graduated from college, got a good job, and paid off her student loans. Parker Jackson, being the only son of a billionaire, had always been a ladies man and had the choice of any female he wanted, they even came up to him and flirted to get his bed. One day after his finals in college, his dad asked him to come home and to bring a suit as he had something important to tell him face to face.
Tessa B C
A Kiss in Time by Alex Flinn
This modern re-telling of the Sleeping Beauty fairy tale missed the mark for me. Plot elements were too implausible (and I’m not talking about the magic, witch and fairies), and the dialogue was tortured. I see the appeal for the YA crowd and it was a fast read. I did like the way these two teenagers matured over the course of the novel.
Sue
The Guest Room by Chris Bohjalian
Bohjalian's best book so far! Morbidly alluring look into the dark underbelly of sex trafficking. Horrifying, visceral, and somber. Will make a super book club book.
LINDA
Her Hometown Hero by Margaret Daley
I won this book in the author's contest and agreed to give a fair and honest review, This book is so dear to my heart as the heroine lost part of her leg in a car accident and I can certainly relate to those with disabilities. All Kathleen Somers thought about from age eight was to become a ballerina, and she wouldn't let anything get in her way. She knew that Nate were drifting apart so she broke up with him and headed to New York to achieve her dream. She settled in the city and managed to score auditions and returned home for frequent visits. Then a tragic accident shattered her dreams and she returned home, unsure what to do and hurting. Nate Sterling's heart was shattered when Kit broke up with him and went to live her dream.
gretchen
Inside the O'Briens by Lisa Genova
This book deals with Huntington's Disease. I was not familiar with this disease and as usual Ms. Genova does an incredible amount of research. It is a horrible genetic illness with no known cure but advances are being made in developing drugs to ease some of the symptoms.
Judy O.
X by Sue Grafton
I've read every book in this series, but this one did not live up to my expectations. I was sometimes confused by too many names, and I was often trying to remember what was said earlier about these characters. I also thought that some parts of the ending were rushed and not completely satisfying to me. However, this has been such a terrific series that I'm sure I'll be first in line to get "Y".
Barbara
Life and Other Near Death Experiences by Camille Pagan
LOVED this book! Main character Libby has a lot of sass or at least she does once her husband of many years comes "Out" to her and she finds out she has cancer on the same day. Libby reminded me of Bridget Jones with her funny sarcasm. Libby runs off to escape her old life back home and has plenty of adventures along the way. I laughed out loud and shed a few tears. It was a really great story.
Lynn W
As The Crow Flies (Walt Longmire Mysteries Book #8) by Craig Johnson
Another excellent contemporary Western murder mystery. I love how this author sneaks in humor.
He had me laughing out loud in several places.
Marilyn
Redemption by Stacey Lannert and Kristen Kemp
This book is the true story of Stacey Lannert who was convicted in 1990 of the murder of her father who had sexually abused her. She was given a life sentence without parole at age 18. She spent 18 years in prison until her sentence was commuted. The first part describing her abuse was hard to read, but the "behind bars" narrative reads like ORANGE IS THE NEW BLACK. It was uplifting to hear about her positive attitude in finding freedom behind bars and how she has revamped her life since being released from prison.
Donna
Make Me by Lee Child
A Jack Reacher novel. He gets off a train in a small town named Mother's Rest in the midst of miles of wheat fields. He meets a girl who mistakes him for someone else who seems to be missing. Neither one of them are welcome in this town and they are forced to leave. The town locals have a secret that they will hide at any cost. Jack and the girl are determined to find the missing man and uncover why the town is off limits.
Diana
Inside the Victorian Home: A Portrait of Domestic Life in Victorian England by Judith Flanders
A book I have been wanting to read for quite a while, but hard to find in the U.S. I bought a copy at the Charles Dickens Museum while on vacation in London, and I'm happy I found it. I enjoyed reading about how an upper middle class house of the era was "correctly" furnished. The author explained attitudes on how each level of society had expectations of how to properly furnish a house depending on the job and salary of the husband. The book, while aimed at the general public, would only be of real interest for research, or if you liked that era of history. My favorite part of the book was how the author used fiction of the era as examples of the people living in said house, though there were a few books I had never heard of before.
Trez
The Hidden Child by Camilla Lackberg
Another page-turner. I love the way the suspense builds until your curiosity is unbearable. This time I was able to determine the killer before the end.
Jan
The Space Between Us by Thrity Umrigar
I have never been to India but I have lived in a developing country and I grew up in the U.S. south, so I understand class and related power issues. This is a novel about ultra-poor and middle class in India. After working for a family for a long time, the servant seems to almost be a part of the family. She is naive and shocked when she finds out the truth about her "family." This is a classic story of those who have the power using it when they need or want to use it. Social class runs through all of our societies, and we all use it and see it in different ways. This book is just one more example of the poor and down-trodden being used by those who have more power.
SHANNON
Think of a Number by John Verdon
My favorite book of 2015. A mystery lovers dream. I love the way Dave Gurney picks apart a crime scene. This is not a predictable read, just a fantastic one.
Tessa B C
Zia by Scott O'Dell
This sequel to O’Dell’s Newbery Award winner, ISLAND OF THE BLUE DOLPHINS, is not so compelling a story as the first book, but I still thought it was a good middle-grade book. Zia is a strong heroine – intelligent, resourceful, loyal and brave. I also liked the social history lesson O’Dell imparts.
Hedwig
The Golem of Paris by Jonathan Kellerman and Jesse Kellerman
A continuation of the Golem series. I say series as this is Book Two and the ending left a lot up in the air. A fun read with all sorts of supernatural figures involved. I think it have been a little shorter as it over told some of the story and did not really explain other parts. I will read the next.
Michael
The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto by Mitch Albom
I loved it! Mitch Albom books hold a special place in my heart since TUESDAYS WITH MORRIE... well... except that last one. This one is back in top form about the life of a musician told in an interesting way (no spoilers here). Huge thumbs up. And a very quick read (the book looks thick but the pages are small). Enjoy!
Brenda
The Christmas Bus by Melody Carlson
This is a book that I have wanted to read for a while. I have read some of this author's previous work. She writes a "feel good" story. The variety of characters were a joy. The book did allow me to slow down and think about angels. I did like that Amy and Collin were not driven out of town. I might try and read this author again in 2016.
Tessa B C
March: Book One by John Lewis and Andrew Aydin
This is a graphic novel depiction of Lewis’s memoir of coming-of-age during the 1960s and the impact of the Civil Rights Movement on him, and on the country. What he has to say about that period of history is important. I realize this format will bring the story to many young people that would not otherwise read the history books, but I really dislike graphic novels. I find the illustrations too dark and the type difficult to read.
Lynn W
The Marriage of Opposites by Alice Hoffman
This historical novel started slowly, but picked up and became a fascinating look at the Jewish settlers of St.Thomas, especially the parents of France's great master painter, Camille Pissarro.
Laurie
The Scam by Janet Evanovich and Lee Goldberg
4th book in a new series with excellent new characters. FBI agent Kate O'Hare is hunting thief Nicholas Fox, but secretly they are partners hunting criminals that the FBI cannot hunt but Fox can. Kate's father is hilarious as her back up because he is just like Fox. In the plot Kate and Fox are undercover as high stake gamblers in Las Vegas hunting "Evan Trace". They travel to Hawaii (Oahu & Macau). Their developing relationship (between Kate and Fox) is delightful.
Beth
Circling the Sun by Paula McLain
Thoroughly enjoyed this new novel by the author of THE PARIS WIFE. It tells the story of Beryl Markham, an early woman aviator, as she grows up in Kenya in the years prior to WWII. She raises and races horses as well as mingles with the British upper-crust types who frequent their African colony. She also has close ties to the native tribe that lived in her immediate vicinity. It's an excellent look at both the place and the time. I would highly recommend it to readers who enjoy historical fiction.
LINDA
The Headmaster's Cave by D. S. Allen
I was given this book in return for an honest review, and although it's a young adult story, I really enjoyed reading about George, Katie, and Dougie's adventure. The pair was angry when they realized that their friend had gone to the cave without waiting for them and went help Dougie when he went alone to the headmaster's cave instead of waiting for his friends. The boys received an email in computer class inviting them to come to the cave as it was the one hundred and twentieth anniversary of the death of the headmaster and the seven children he'd kidnapped. The duo headed off the get their friend, unknown to their parents...
Mauricio
After the Crash by Michel Bussi
First of all, I want to thank you for the book. This have to be one of the finest books I've read this year. I will be looking forward to other books by this author. This book is a superb thriller with a lot of twists and turns, and I recommend this book to every one who wants just to read a good, very good book.
Hedwig
The Girl with Ghost Eyes by M. H. Boroson
Good entertaining read. It would make a great Disney animated movie. I think kids would love all it, with all the Chinese monsters and especially the spirit world and a brave heroine.
Lynn W
Come Rain or Come Shine by Jan Karon
There have been some negative reviews of this book, but I enjoyed it, as I have all the books in the "Father Tim" series.
Donna
Go Set a Watchman by Harper Lee
I had difficulty getting through this book. It started very slowly and dragged along, sometimes confusing, until the end. I wish the entire book was as interesting as the ending. I was very disappointed.
Nissa
Underground in Berlin: A Young Woman's Extraordinary Tale of Survival in the Heart of Nazi Germany by Marie Jalowicz Simon
Very good book. Would recommend to anyone who likes WWII and Holocaust novels.
Lynn W
Hemingway in Love: His Own Story by A. E. Hotchner
Hemingway loved two women at the same time: his wife, Hadley, and Pauline, who became his second wife. Hotchner held on to his friend's story until it could not hurt Papa's last wife, Mary. This little book is a fascinating look at Hemingway's life when he was just starting his career.
