This contest period's winners were Debbie M., Diana T. and Jeri M., who each received a copy of FIND HER by Lisa Gardner and MIDNIGHT SUN by Jo Nesbø.
Nissa
Running with Scissors by Augusten Burroughs
This book is definitely for someone with an open mind. The book has a lot of rough language, so if you are sensitive to this I would not recommend reading the book. It is a glimpse into the life of a very dysfunctional and psychotic family. At times it can be humorous and other times I feel sorry for what he had to go though. It is creative but at times can get a little creepy.
LINDA
Broken Wings by Abigail Graham
I received this ARC and agreed to give it an honest review, and all I can say is WOW!! This is my first time reading this author, and I will be looking for her other books, but can't imagine how she will top this! Ellie Roberts thought Jack had left her ten years ago because the car he drove crashed, tumbled over, and set her on fire and left her disfigured, scarred, and broken. Now he's back at her stepmother's wedding to his dad, and now he wants her back? Jack Marshall, son of the fourth richest man in the country, had plans for his only son to become a senator, but the stupid sixteen-year-old only thought of Ellie. Away for ten years and he still wants her even though her face is ruined and she lost the use of one hand.
Lynn
A Banquet of Consequences by Elizabeth George
The 19th book in the Inspector Lynley series - I think this is the best yet. The humor struck me particularly. We are all perfect foils to Sgt. Havers, and her comments had me cracking up. I listened to this book and the narration was wonderful.
Katherine
Digging to America by Anne Tyler
A fun read for our group!
Jeffrey
Tennessee Williams: Mad Pilgrimage of the Flesh by John Lahr
Could not put it down! (Full disclosure: I'm a playwright) Lahr is a brilliant writer, and this is a page-turner about a genius who couldn't get out of his own way. Insightful and intensely juicy, if you're a fan of Williams' plays, this is required reading.
Karen
The Japanese Lover by Isabel Allende
A great love story with a little bit of history thrown in. I want to be like the primary character when I grow older...
Eunice
Eileen by Ottessa Moshfegh
This book grabbed me from the first chapter. Eileen is looking back at her life from old age and recounting what resulted in her freeing herself from small town life. There are several surprises as you go along. Her portraits of the people she knows are very real.
Lucy
The Stargazer's Sister by Carrie Brown
THE STARGAZER'S SISTER is a fictionalized telling of the life stories of the gifted composer and astronomer William Herschel and his equally gifted sister, Caroline. Caroline is abused by her mother and later rescued by her brother who takes her under his wing and teaches her his crafts. Throughout her life with William, Caroline lives in William's shadow. When he leaves her alone to go on a wedding trip with his new wife, Caroline's true genius becomes apparent. When William dies, we wonder how Caroline will get by without him, only to discover that her own strengths are enough to carry her through. This is a compelling read with strong female lead character. I highly recommend it.
Therese
The Great Christmas Knit Off by Alexandra Brown
I am hoping this is going to be a series. The author has created some charming and quirky characters!
S
Eternal on the Water by Joseph Monninger
A wonderful story.
Donna
The School of Essential Ingredients by Erica Bauermeister
A wonderful story about the friendships that form while taking a cooking class. It makes me think of food in a totally different way.
Marsha
Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty
I think it was a great book. It explored many issues: bullying, adultery, domestic violence, secrets,
and helicopter parents. The characters were very well described.
Tessa B C
The Toynbee Convector by Ray Bradbury
3.5 stars. This collection of short stories was originally published in 1988. Most of the stories are the type that we typically associate with Bradbury – time travel, science fiction, paranormal, horror. One completely delightful surprise was “Junior” featuring a group of senior citizens with healthy libidos. For me, the star of this book is a tender love story titled “The Laurel and Hardy Love Affair”. It’s the story that forced me to look at Bradbury with new eyes and to appreciate his skill at crafting a story that engages, entertains, and kindles the reader’s emotions.
Katherine
The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
I loved this book. So interesting to read about the hardships of women and children during the war. Very enlightening.
Debbie Brisbin
Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke
Amid the proliferation of WWII books over the last 5 years, this takes the cake. I am NOT an animal lover, but Croke draws you right in and places you dead center in Burma with Williams and his magnificent beasts.
DeAnn
The Lake House by Kate Morton
Kate Morton has done it again! This one had so many twists and turns and I did NOT guess the ending. What a great writer to have me disliking one character immensely only to end up really liking her at the end. Morton is a master at having one chapter in the past and the next chapter in the present day. I want to visit Loeanneth (and how do you pronounce it?) Sounds like I would love the Cornish countryside.
Myrna
The Expatriates by Janice Y. K. Lee
An absorbing story of three American women living in Hong Kong and the impact of the expatriate community on their lives.
Marsha
Falling in Love by Donna Leon
Leon writes novels featuring Commissario Guido Brunetti of Venice. This is her latest of many and she portrays life in Venice in lovely detail. This one introduces us to the dazzling world of Venetian opera and Italy's finest soprano who is stalked by an unknown admirer. Ciao Bella!
Dorothy
Bridge of Spies by Giles Whittell
Brought history to life in a very readable way.
Simonne
Plainsong by Kent Haruf
Slow going novel with a big punch. Like EVENTIDE, the characters seem simple at first, but a whole life is packed into few sentences.
Sharon
Quietly in Their Sleep by Donna Leon
Commissario Guido Brunetti is approached by the nun who was caring for his mother who is in a rest home, only to discover that Sister Immaculata has left the order and thinks something out of the ordinary has happened to several of the patients at homes where the sisters are caretakers. True or is Maria Testa as she is now known, imagining things?
Lee
Shaker by Scott Frank
I could NOT put this book down! Scott creates so many interesting, crazy characters and sub-stories, makes for a thrilling ride! It seems to me a delicious cross between Elmore Leonard, Jo Nesbo and John Sanford. I Look forward to many more by this author.
Betty
All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr
This book was very dark and hard to read at the beginning. However, once you got about one fourth of the way it was had to put down.
Lee
The Guest Room by Chris Bohjalian
One of my favorite writers, Bohjalian threads a suspenseful thriller with a nightmare story of sex traffickers. Loved the way he has a victim of such retell her horrific story of how she ended up in the "guest room".
Nancy
The Cuckoo's Calling by Robert Galbraith
This is the start of a detective series written by J.K Rowling. I've always loved English mysteries and this is no exception. Cormoran Strike, the detective, is extremely damaged, which makes him so darn likable. His new female "sidekick", (Robin, no less), is also a very likable character. Strike is hired by the brother of a very famous model, Lula Landry, to find out if her death was an actual suicide or a murder. Reading the book to find out the truth was entertaining and satisfying.
Ann
Stolen by Daniel Palmer
I just loved this book! My sister bought it for me during the last snowstorm and I could not put it down; I read it in one day. The book is about a couple who, due to her illness, cannot get the
medication that she needs to survive. So they embark on a journey to steal another person's
identity to get the insurance she needs to get her medication. The only problem is the person
whose identity they stole may not be the person they expected him to be! Great read with all
the twist and turns of an excellent thriller!
Paula
Crimson Shore by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child
Excellent A. X. L Pendergast story. Fast read and very suspenseful ending making me want the next book to be published...soon.
Linda
NYPD Red 4 by James Patterson and Marshall Karp
In front of fans and cameras, a starlet is killed and the expensive emerald and diamond necklace is wrenched off her neck. Since this was a high profile killing, Detectives Zach Jordan and Kylie MacDonald with NYPD’s Red Team have been called in. If this were not enough, expensive equipment is being stolen from several hospitals and surveillance cameras have not been able to catch the thieves. The mayor’s husband calls in the Red Team because hospital executives don’t want to let the public know and scare their patients. Several hospitals have been hit and the thieves must be caught.
Trude
Brotherhood in Death by J. D. Robb
42 books and several novellas and this series is still one of my favorite series. In this book, murder has touched Dennis Mira when his cousin is killed. I loved seeing how he can turn tough cop Eve to mush. Eve must battle her past to solve this case, which she does with the help of her team of cops...and of course Roarke, who always has her back. I have read all the books, some more than once, and I will definitely reread this one.
Linda
A Man of His Own by Susan Wilson
A heartwarming story of a dog found abandoned and raised by a man with hopes of becoming a major league pitcher until World War II came along and destroyed his hopes. During the war, the dog was trained as a K-9 dog and became a soldier along with his handler. But when the war ended and the dog was to be returned to his owners, his handler didn’t want to let him go. The dog was confused. He remembered the man who raised him but he was taught by his handler. This is a tearjerker at times, but what a great book.
Marilyn
Life of Pi by Yann Martel
I enjoyed the reread of this book and thought of it as it might relate to my life. Just what is the tiger on my lifeboat? How do I survive when faced with difficulties?
Linda
Redemption Bay by RaeAnne Thayne
When Ben Kilpatrick returns to Haven Point, not everyone is happy to see him. His family had owned the local boat works company that employed many of the townspeople until Ben closed the business. This hit the employees hard because there were few jobs available. Mayor McKenzie Shaw was best friends with Ben’s sister and wants to see the good in Ben. He finally tells her that Haven Point is being considered as the location for a new facility for the company he works for. But the town has a lot of bad memories for Ben and he is not anxious to be back, nor are the townspeople glad to see him.
Linda
The Highlander Takes a Bride by Lynsay Sands
A love story where a spinster falls in love with a Highland laird and they marry. But someone doesn't want their marriage to last. Someone is trying to kill her, but who?
Linda
Kiss Me by Susan Mallery
This is the 19th book of the Fool's Gold series. Maya Farlow has the perfect place for her friend Phoebe Kitzke to go for a vacation. Maya's stepbrother Zane Nicholson has a ranch in Fool’s Gold and has arranged for a cattle drive for greenhorns. Maya signed herself and Phoebe up for this. The only horse that Phoebe has ridden is the wooden kind on a carousel, and now she will have to ride a real one! Phoebe hadn’t counted on a rugged cowboy named Zane and he hadn’t counted on the goodhearted friend of his stepsister. A cute romance!
Linda
The Lake House by Kate Morton
Great story with lots of surprises! A toddler disappears and the police are unable to find him. Was he kidnapped or did he just wander off? His father suffered from PTSD and some thought that he might have killed the child by accident. What really happened to Theo? There are some slow spots in the book but don't give up. This is a great book.
Linda
The Mistletoe Inn by Richard Paul Evans
Kimberly Rossi is an aspiring romance writer and has numerous rejection letters to prove it. Her father has faith in her and sends her to a writer’s retreat where one of her favorite writers will be speaking. Zeke, her writing partner, critiques her writing and says it is good but she needs to work on her character development. When Zeke admits he tried to commit suicide after his wife died, Kim ends their budding romance. Her mother had committed suicide and Kim can’t go through this type of loss again so she tells Zeke goodbye. Although she walks away, her heart is breaking. But Zeke has fallen in love with Kim and won’t let her go.
Linda
Mad, Bad, and Dangerous in Plaid by Suzanne Enoch
A high-spirited Highland lass is determined to go to London and have a season, especially since the man she has loved since childhood refuses to see her as a woman. She will show him! He doesn’t realize how much he does love her until he finds her about to be pledged to another man, one who is considered more civilized than a barbarian Scot.
Karen
Under the Wide and Starry Sky by Nancy Horan
A bit slow to start but very interesting insight into life of Robert Louis Stevenson and his wife Fanny, especially during their time in the South Seas.
Karen
4th of July Creek by Smith Henderson
Not an enjoyable read. Too dark and meandering. Characters and actions often not given a context so you are always wondering why/what precipitated that. Not plausible in many aspects.
Debbie
The Secret Life of Violet Grant by Beatriz Williams
I always like books that switch between time periods. I have to admit I liked reading the chapters involving Violet in the past rather than Vivian in the present. I can say I felt Vivian became that friend wanted to give advice to but held your tongue. Overall I enjoyed the book and want to read more by Beatriz Williams.
Fran
The Story of Edgar Sawtelle by David Wroblewski
A well written, compelling family drama. Loved the story from the perspective of the various characters, especially Almondine. It was little long so parts seemed to drag, but overall it held my interest.
Sherrie English
The Grammar of God by Aviya Kushner
Beautifully written part memior and part discovery of the way over the decades verses and words in the Bible are translated. This is a story of Aviya and her quest to find answers while she shares stories from her family and herself as growing from one vocation to another. Lovely and so very worth the time!
Betty
The Visitors by Sally Beauman
For anyone who is fascinated by the 1920's archaeological excavations in the Valley of the Kings, this book has great period feel and a murder to boot.
Lori
Most Wanted by Lisa Scottoline
I've been a big fan of Lisa Scottoline for a long time, and the premise of her latest book was intriguing to me, so I was delighted to have the opportunity to read an advance copy of MOST WANTED. The book did not disappoint. I particularly liked the ethical issues related to sperm donation and think they would be excellent to discuss in a book discussion group. This differentiated and elevated the book from the typical thriller. I flew through the book. My only criticism is a few things that happened seemed unrealistic, but it was easy for me to disregard them. I would highly recommend the book to all readers.
Judy O.
The Innocent Man by John Grisham
I believe that this was the only true-crime book that Grisham has written. It is about Ron Williamson, a former baseball player in Oklahoma, who was convicted and given the death penalty for a murder he did not commit. This is his story and also the story of his friend Dennis Fritz, who was supposedly the accomplice in this murder. Prepare to be outraged as you read.
Betty
The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins
You know someone is a "psycho", but which one. And is there more than one?
Penelope
The Silkworm by Robert Galbraith
The second in a series, this book continues the adventures of Cormoran Strike, a private detective. Strike has gained some notoriety since the solving of a murder in Book One, THE CUCKOO'S CALLING. This mystery involves the publishing business and Strike, along with his secretary, Robin, who find themselves embroiled in another mysterious death with many interesting characters in the plot.
Linda
After the Crash by Michel Bussi
Story of a plane crash where one infant girl survived. Wealthy family hires private detective to determine if child is their granddaughter. Mystery with twist at end.
Jud
Changes by Jim Butcher
Excellent book and real series game-changer.
Susan Dean
The Readers of Broken Wheel Recommend by Katarina Bivald
Sara comes to Broken Wheel to meet her pen-pal Amy, only to find out she has died. How the town takes her under their wing is the focus of this book.
Elaine
All the Stars in the Heavens by Adriana Trigiani
This was a very interesting book about the Golden Era of Hollywood. It follows Loretta Young through her leading men crushes to having Clark Gable's child.
Shirley
Leaving Time by Jodi Picoult
Interesting novel about elephants, motherhood and grief with Picoult's signature surprise near the end.
Marilyn
A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman
I would actually rate this 4-1/2 stars. Ove is a retired widower and a curmudgeon who is lonely since his wife's death. He reluctantly becomes involved with his new neighbors Parvaneh, Patrick and their children. I laughed aloud at the situations. Ove saves a man who falls on the subway tracks and is a reluctant hero. He uses this fame to save a neighbor from being forcibly moved to a care home. He has a heart of gold and is generous despite his high standards. A feel-good read.
Dianne
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
Reread for book club. This is also a book selected by our local library for a Big Read. Very emotional and moving story. Readers cannot help but be touched by Scout, Jem, Dill and Atticus.
Karen
Warriors of the Storm by Bernard Cornwell
Lord Uhtred of Bebbanburg's saga continues. His goal is to protect Mercia for its ruler and recapture other parts of the country that are under Danish control. He also wants to recover Bebbanburg from his cousin for himself. The novel is full of excitement and tension as Uhtred and his men strategize and battle Norseman Ragnall Ivarson and his men who are trying to take Mercia from Aetheflaed, as well as Northumbria.
Beatrice
This Is How by Augusten Burroughs
I found this book to be very thought-provoking, fun and very helpful for everyday life.
Bev
The Pocket Wife by Susan Crawford
I found the subject matter interesting, but the writing was very choppy. Interesting characters. I didn't dislike the book, but not one of my favorite psychological thrillers.
Marion
White Dresses by Mary Pflum Peterson
Awesome story. Very well written. Keep coming back to read it.
shelly
Four Friends by Robyn Carr
Ms. Carr has written a book about friendships of four different women. All have obstacles to face and they help each other. To the public Gerri has it all - a job she loves, three wonderful children and a loving husband, and then one day all of that changes. Gerri finds out her husband had an affair and she is not sure she will ever be able to trust him again. Andy, who has been friends with Gerri for years, has a son around the same age as Gerri's older son, and they are friends and share a very private secret. This is the second time Andy has had to divorce her husband after he cheated on her. Should she give up on love or is there someone out there for her and her son?
Janet
City on Fire by Garth Risk Hallberg
I was rather disappointed with this book. It had received so many kudos that I just knew I would be absolutely in love with this book. Alas, not true.
JEAN
Code of Conduct by Brad Thor
This book is really a thriller. Really exciting and dramatic. Showing a side of government and D. C. that could happen, but I hope it does not. A race to the end that you are not ready for.
Rosa
The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot
This book is an account of how the HeLa cell line came about. It is an eye-opening story about a woman named Henrietta Lacks, an African-American woman who died of cervical cancer in the 1950s. She did not know that a sample of her cervical cancer cells was obtained by the doctor and subsequently propagated in tissue culture and used in medical research to develop drugs. There is much to consider after reading this book: issues of informed consent; privacy; poverty. Great book for book club discussion.
Kathie
Boys in the Trees by Carly Simon
If you grew up hearing the music of Carly Simon, James Taylor, Mick Jagger, Carol King, Cat Stevens and the Beatles you will enjoy this book. At times I felt like I was sitting in Martha's Vineyard listening to Carly talk about her life. What a fascinating, talented woman. I am enjoying discovering her music and James Taylor's all over again. Loved knowing the reasons behind the music.
Betty
The Ultimatum by Dick Wolf
The third in the Jeremy Fisk novels is still too much technical info and not enough story, as was the second. I'm sure many people are interested in that kind of book, but I am interested in a good story. Very little story here, or maybe I just missed it. I'll have to check out others' reviews. The plot was a bad guy saying, "Let's kill New Yorkers"...again. Same old, same old, but with different methods. Sorry. I love the Law and Order TV series; we watch the re-runs all the time, they never get old. And, I liked the first book in this series, but he lost me in the last two.
Sandra
The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto by Mitch Albom
Mesmerizing.
Sharon
The Redbreast by Jo Nesbo
The book bounced from WWII Europe to modern Oslo, which I found confusing at first. Once I understood the themes of this book, Harry Hole, Oslo's premier policeman and recovering alcoholic, was in trouble for shooting a member of the U. S. Secret Service and was in the wrong place...according to the information provided to Harry. He could not be punished so he was promoted him to a paper-pushing job. He discovered that murders that took place in modern Oslo were carried out by a former Norwegian soldier who fought with the Germans. The book kept me intrigued to the last page!
Marsha
The Ship of Brides by Jojo Moyes
At the end of WWII an aircraft carrier leaves Australia with 650 war brides to reunite them with their British husbands. With a thousand naval officers on this rickety ship that is bound to be scraped, many stories abound. The four wives billeted together are the crux of the story, which is nicely told to keep your interest.
Patricia
The Lake House by Kate Morton
This was my first time reading Kate Morton and I really loved her writing style! She was able to tell a story that was at times extremely haunting (and downright creepy!), but yet there were also so many tender and insightful moments. She's also really good at making the reader think that they're figuring things out, but they're really not. Twice I totally thought I knew where the story was going to go but was wrong. Really enjoyed it!
Tollie
The Law of Similars by Chris Bohjalian
I've been a fan of Bohjalian since I read MIDWIVES years ago. This book does not disappoint. I find I learned a lot about homeopathic procedures. While I don't fully understand how homeopathic practitioners work, I do like the idea that the less "drugs" we take the better it is for our bodies. Bohjalian does keep the plot swiftly moving along, which made me get back to reading it as quickly as possible. His other books, of course, are on my reading list.
LINDA
Upon This Rock by Travis Luedke
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review, and was I intrigued! Book 1 starts off slow, but quickly picked up with Ashley Rowan. She saw what happened to her mom when she told doctors she heard voices in her head and they put her away! As an adult now, she had dreams about a man/god? named Mithra who had visited her for as long as she could remember, but now he came to her at daytime. Then an agonizing pain threw her out of bed and she burned an indention on the floor and her bed was in flames as well as her walls. Mithra, The Reconciler, had conditioned Ashley from the time she had been born as she held the key to unlock the hidden gates to Eden that was closed over a millennia ago.
Dorothy Flood
Silver Linings by Debbie Macomber
If you're a follower of the Cedar Cove Series you'll find out what happened to Mark. Even if you're not, you'll enjoy the book as she gives you the background.
Rosemary
The Grownup by Gillian Flynn
What a ripoff!
Ivana
Beauty of The Beast by Viktoria Faust
This is classic girl-meets-boy kind of book. Except, he is not really a boy, and she is not an ordinary girl. And this is not love story. More of hate story, spiced with blood attraction. The book is long, but I was soon taken away with story, and after first chapters pages fly!
KC
The Stopped Heart by Julie Myerson
It had ghosts and tragedy and mystery, all 150 years apart. Two stories that intertwined. The writing was exceptional up until the ending. I felt that Myerson just had nothing more to say. When I read the last page I had to literally go back and reread the last few pages to see whether or not I missed something. I would have given this book a lesser rating for that, but the story was intriguing and the writing superb.
LINDA
The Quest: A Lakota Legend by Charles Richard Latona
I won this book and agreed to give an honest review. Although I expected to be entertained, I found myself absorbed with the trials of the Native American and what it took to become a Shaman and Wicasa for their tribe. White Wolf's time is near his end and he must seek the Grand Father for a vision on who will be the next leader. He must determine the brave's strength, determination, and skill to face many hardships and lonely days as he gathered plants to perform sacred ceremonies.
Augusta R.
Seeking the Star by Traci Borum
In this 3rd novel of the Chilton Crosse series, a peaceful Christmas scene is set. But the lives of villagers George and Mary Cartwright are about to change. A stranger, Ben, unexpectedly appears at their door in dire need of warmth, food, and attention. It is through the love of the older couple and his gradual trusting friendship with Mac (from Ms. Borum's previous novels) that Ben is encouraged to reveal more about his past and gains back his long-lost faith. It's fun to find characters from the two prior Chilton Crosse books engaged in various holiday festivities. Ms. Borum exhibits her usual easy-to-read fine writing style, excellent dialogue and characterization, and an ending that is both touching and joy-filled.
Lynn W
The Light Between Oceans by M. L. Stedman
Just finished reading this for the second time. It's my choice and I'm discussion leader for book club tonight. I was again blown away by how good this book is. It's a page-turner, a beautifully written tale of love and loss, right and wrong, and the lengths we'll go to make happy those we adore.
Karen
The Marriage of Opposites by Alice Hoffman
Beautifully written scenery and characters. The main character acted out of character in the latter part of the book, which made her seem all the more real to this reader. Lovely to read and fun to discuss with book club members.
Tessa B C
Yes Please by Amy Poehler
In general, I’m not a big fan of celebrity memoirs, but this one was getting great reviews from friends whose opinions I value so I decided to give it a go. Poehler is funny, engaging, self-deprecating, kind, funny, outrageous, honest, funny, intelligent, dynamic and funny.
Chris
Mystery in White: A Christmas Crime Story by J. Jefferson Farjeon
3.5 stars. This is a kind of slow, old fashioned crime story set in England.
Chrisp
Longshot by Dick Francis
Excellent mystery involving race tracks and murders! Highly recommend.
Dave
No Ordinary Time by Doris Kearns Goodwin
4.5 stars Great insight into FDR's leadership and Eleanor's contributions to the country. Kearns Goodwin is one of my favorite authors.
Heather
Mrs. Roosevelt's Confidante by Susan Elia MacNeal
This is probably my least favorite of the Maggie Hope series. Though it was enjoyable and overall a fast read, I felt that MacNeal tried to take on too heavy a topic, the treatment of races during WWII, for a light read.
Dave
Introduction to Bridge, Book 1 by Audrey Grant
Straight forward, easy to follow instruction. End of chapter summaries are very helpful.
Helen brady
Breaking Night by Liz Murray
A true story of a remarkable woman's journey from being homeless to being accepted to Harvard. She is a true inspiration...
Francisca E B
Still Life by Louise Penny
This is the first in a series of mysteries featuring Chief Inspector Gamache. I’ve heard much about this series and have several friends who are devoted fans, but I thought it took a very long time to take off. I’ll give the series another try. It wasn’t a bad book, but it didn’t grab me as I expect mysteries to do.
Hedwig
The Guest Room by Chris Bohjalian
I won this book from Bookreporter.com. I also had it on hold from the library with a long waiting list, so I was very happy to win it. Once again Mr. Bohjalian has written a very heartwrenching story. I do not like all his books but the ones I do are outstanding. This is one of them. The fact that he was able to write each character's chapters in such a believable voice made the story even more believable. I could not believe the chapters written by Alexandra telling her story could be any more heartbreaking. I think he brought the subject matter out that all men need to read this to understand that what they think is harmless fun is really not the case for everyone involved. Although this does not happen all the time, it could.
Sandy
A Sister to Honor by Lucy Ferriss
I could hardly put this one down! Afia Satar and her brother Shahid both are sent to America for their education and Afia falls in love with Gus. Shahid is supposed to protect his sister's honor but fails. Love in America and arranged marriages in Pakistan are worlds apart.
Ruth
All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr
I do believe this is the best book I have read in several years.
Jayne
The Reckoning by Rennie Airth
The fourth John Madden mystery leaves me anxious for the next one. Beautifully written with characters that jump off the page, this series is one that should not be missed. All four books have creative plots and each page is like a gift.
Anita
Invisible City by Julia Dahl
This was an interesting mystery about a Hasidic Jewish woman who is murdered in Brooklyn, NY and the reporter who investigates the crime. However, the writing was rather too simple for my liking and every page was filled with the "F" word, which was not necessary for the story.
Brenda
The Quality of Silence by Rosamund Lupton
Read this late into the night. This book is written to encourage the reader to think about the "Big" picture. How many times don't we turn our heads the other way and not make a company or government do the right or moral thing? How many times do we think, "I am only one person, what difference can I really make? How many times do we overlook a person because they are not exactly like us? The author does not answer these questions for the reader, she just presents the story. This book at times can blow the reader's mind, but if the reader takes time to reflect and process, then the story is very believable and challenging. This author is worth taking time to read.
Betty
Excellent Daughters: The Secret Lives of Young Women Who Are Transforming the Arab World by Katherine Zoepf
Katherine Zoepf, a journalist, has had the wonderful opportunity to live and travel throughout the Arab world. She has seen many changes in the area of women’s rights over the past few years. She shares her observations in this book. The region has had to adapt to social changes involving young unmarried women, something totally foreign to their culture. In their society a woman remains at home with her parents until she marries and moves into her husband’s home. However, now there are numerous unmarried women who are going to university and have entered the workforce, whether through economic necessity or their own wishes for an independent life. They are delaying marriage and sometimes rejecting the institution completely.
Tessa B C
Carry On by Rainbow Rowell
I kept hearing about Rainbow Rowell and how much people loved her other books. I should have at least read the book jacket first – totally my own fault. I didn’t believe in the characters and their relationships. I thought the dialogue was tortured and ridiculous, not to mention the plot elements. On the plus side, Rowell does a pretty good job when writing suspenseful/thriller scenes.
Harriet
The Never-Open Desert Diner by James Anderson
What a delightful story and wonderfully told. The title was irresistible. It begged the question: Why was the diner never open? I won't tell you; you must discover the answer for yourself. Along the way, through the narrator, Ben Jones, of Ben's Desert Moon Delivery Service, you'll meet the most delightful but strange desert rats, oops, characters, view the Utah desert setting in magnificent detail, and enjoy a love story, a humorous story, and a gripping crime story. This is a debut crime novel from 2015; hope to read his next one.
Harriet
The Fifth Gospel by Ian Caldwell
One of my favorite books back in 2004 was THE RULE OF FOUR by Caldwell and Thomason. I know it was 2004 because I own two copies. Don't ask. How could I resist this one; it didn't disappoint. It is an intellectual thriller, using real-life people, places, and events. The story is narrated by Greek Orthodox priest Alexander Andreou, but it is also about his brother Simon, a Roman Catholic priest, and a long held secret about the movement of the Shroud of Turin and the fifth gospel. When a Vatican museum curator is found shot and Simon accused of the murder, Alex begins his own investigation. This is sooo much more than the usual whodunit, but I don't want to spoil your sense of discovery. I still wonder how much of this was fact. Hmm.
Deborah Smith
The Luckiest Girl Alive by Jessica Knoll
This book had reviews comparing it to THE GIRL ON A TRAIN. In my opinion, it's NOT like that book at all. The main character's story is her "not living on the elite side of town" as a teen and being sent to the "elite" school. You almost know where that's going - how will she fit in with the "it" crowd. The story goes back and forth between her high school years and her high-class lifestyle as an adult in New York City. She was at the school during a shooting like Columbine and how that has impacted her life. This was an okay book. Not very impressed with the writing style, but it was a fairly quick read.
Harriet
The Long and Faraway Gone by Lou Berney
I've been reading mysteries for, I don't know, over forty years, so I'm always looking for something unusual, although a police procedural is my favorite choice. This is one of those that caught my interest and kept me engaged front to back. It begins with the backstory in 1986 for two separate characters whom we follow into the present, being 2012. Each character had a life-altering event. Do the two characters cross paths, well, sort of, but the narrative drive is does their past alter the present and are they able to solve the mysteries? Is it a murder mystery? That would be telling too much. You just have to find out for yourself. I found this story compelling with a deftly drawn cast. I look forward to reading more of his mysteries.
Donna
Chateau of Secrets by Melanie Dobson
This story is based on the life of Genevieve Marie Menke during WWII in France. She rescued American airmen, helped Jewish children to escape and volunteered for the French Red Cross and was awarded two metals for bravery. This story switches back and forth between Genevieve's life and her American granddaughter's who is researching her grandmother's story.
Jud
Proven Guilty by Jim Butcher
Series gets better and better with every book.
Bonnie
American Housewife by Helen Ellis
Quick read, but not very memorable. It's a book of short stories, so, typically, some are better than others.
Vicki
14 Days to Die by A. B. Whelan
This book is a thriller. A woman gets a call one day informing her that her husband has hired him to kill her. If she will pay him $50,000, twice the $25,000 fee her husband is paying, he will kill her husband and let her live. Thus begins a look at the marriage she thought she had. She assumed they were relatively happy. She can't go to the police as the hit man is watching her 24/7 so starts scheming her own way to kill him. This book is darkly humorous. One minute you are about to cry, the next laughing. The book has so many twists and turns that you never know what is coming next. I was reminded of GONE GIRL and THE GIRL ON THE TRAIN. If you liked those, you will love this. Great book that would make an even better movie!!!!
Bea
Circling the Sun by Paula McLain
This is a really great companion book to Beryl Markham's book WEST WITH THE NIGHT. Beryl's book is more about her accomplishments, McLain's book is more about her personal life. Beryl Markham was the first woman horse trainer in Kenya and she was the first woman to fly across the Pacific. This book tells about her life, which was bohemian for the times. Our book club had a great discussion about this book.
Barbara
A Girl Like You by Michelle Cox
Henrietta Von Harmon is pretty yet feisty young women in one of Chicago's hardscrabble neighborhoods in 1935. She lives at home with her widowed mother and seven younger siblings. After the stock market crash and her father's suicide, Henrietta, has tried to do her part to earn money for her family. At the opening of the story we find her working as a 26 Girl at Poor Pete's, a neighborhood bar. At least Poor Pete's owner keeps an eye out for her as if she were his own daughter, but Henrietta feels she needs to earn more money to help her mom, who's been depressed since her father's suicide, to put more food on the table. She takes a job as a taxi dancer, upon the recommendation of her friend Polly at a local dance hall.
Sheree Combs
Ancestor Stones by Aminatta Forna
It was a series of short stories about the author's life growing up. It was very well written but not captivating.
Ann
The Swans of Fifth Avenue by Melanie Benjamin
Loved this book about Truman Capote. A mid-western, small town, gay fellow takes New York City by storm. He charms his way into the private lives of the rich and glamorous, especially the trophy wives.
Burma
Ashley Bell by Dean Koontz
I found it very enjoyable, a little long though. It all comes together nicely in the end.
Linda
The Maze Runner by James Dashner
Who knew I would spend so much time reading YA dystopia? Another series I intend to follow to the end. Despite being recommended by my favorite podcast, it took winning the second book of the trilogy for me to read it. I had to start at the beginning! Taut, well-written book that I wished I could have read in one sitting. Since I couldn't, I was always eager to get back to this book. It was worth it.
Sue
The Swans of Fifth Avenue by Melanie Benjamin
I enjoyed this book as when I was growing up I saw pictures of the Swans in the paper, the famous Black and White Ball and wondered when I would be rich and fabulous! Still waiting. I remember when the famous Esquire book excerpt from Truman Capote's book was published and even we unsophisticated poor folks heard how high society was shunning Truman. It is a well written and engaging book, and I was pulled into the Swans lives again. At times I thought what meaningless lives they were living and yet a part of me still wanted to be rich and fabulous! Easy light read.
Muriel
The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion
What an upbeat, wonderful book! I loved journeying with Don as he improved his social skills through his interactions with Rosie, his Wife Project, and the Father Project. Poignant at times, humorous at others, and just a very nice book about a man with Asperger's trying to fit in and yet be himself.
Anne
When Breath Becomes Air by Dr. Paul Kalanithi
WHEN BREATH BECOMES AIR (Kalanithi) and BETTYVILLE (Hodgman) were the two best memoirs I have read in decades! Dr. Kalanithi shares both his knowledge of literature and medicine in his inspirational preparation for his own death from lung cancer.
Alice
Whiskey and Charlie by Annabel Smith
Wonderful book club read - just did it this morning! Great discussion.
Dorothy
The Paris Winter by Imogen Robertson
A historical novel that takes place in Paris 1909-1910 about three women artists. Many twists and turns. Fast reading.
Deborah Ader
A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara
One of the most emotionally intense books I have ever read.
shelly
Most Wanted by Lisa Scottoline
Ms. Scottoline knows how to capture her fans by the first chapter. Her new book, MOST WANTED, is no exception. In MOST WANTED she has definitely done it again with an emotional, shocking, surprising and thrilling story. Christine and Marcus seem to have “perfect” life now that she is pregnant with the child they have always wanted. Because of medical issues (a condition known as azoospermia) Marcus needed to have a donor supply the sperm for their baby. Christine is now going to retire from teaching and will eventually become a stay-at-home mom. During the going-away party, the TV is on in the room and suddenly the headlines are “serial killer captured”. Christine is about to faint when she seems to recognize the eyes and face.
Giarnese Toni
Dead Wake by Erik Larson
Wow. Worth it just for the torpedo scenes.
Myrna
The Secret Life of Violet Grant by Beatriz Williams
This story is told in dual time periods. The writing styles in each are very different from each other. I much preferred the sections taking place in the past (1914) over the modern sections.
Norene
Spoleto by Meredith Rae Morgan
A very enjoyable read. I look forward to her next book.
Pat
The Japanese Lover by Isabel Allende
An extremely well-written book with great character development spanning 70 years. A wonderful love story of two women, one in her 80s in an assisted care facility and the other her young caretaker. Both women have very complex and interesting histories with many surprises. I will definitely recommend this book to my book club.
Geri
Twain's End by Lynn Cullen
A great read, in line with THE PARIS WIFE and LOVING FRANK. Historical fiction at its best.
Dorothy
Me Before You by Jojo Moyes
Our book club read this and we all liked it. We had an excellent discussion about it. We would recommend it.
myrna
The Expatriates by Janice Y. K. Lee
A well-written, entertaining story of three American women living in Hong Kong whose paths cross in surprising ways.
Sandy
If You Only Knew by Kristan Higgins
Not a "happily ever after", in the traditional sense. Emotional, heartbreaking, uplifting, and funny.
Sandra
The Night Parade by Kathryn Tanquary
A very enjoyable book for the tween reader. Set in Japan, it is rather like ALICE IN WONDERLAND with lots of magical creatures. It is filled with the traditions of ancient Japan such as the festival of Obon where the ghosts of the ancestors are remembered.
James
The Tombs by Clive Cussler and Thomas Perry
I'm a big fan of Clive Cussler and I liked the first couple of Fargo books. But this one seemed stiff and not the usual page-turner. Between the actual tense scenes the description didn't allow me to feel I was there. Too much detail about each meal, and an information dump about Attila like I was getting a history lesson instead of a story. I finished the book and it did keep my interest to see how it would end.
Lynn Thomas
Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel
Multi-faceted and engaging dystopian tale, especially appealing because it takes place in an alternative Michigan, my home state.
Kelly
Corrupted by Lisa Scottoline
Good pace and storyline. Easy read.
Marsha
Night Vision by Paul Levine
This is the second in the Jake Lassiter series. Jake is an ex-football player and now a Miami attorney who seems to fall into trouble very easily. He is appointed to look into murders of women who have been members of a Compu-Mate dating sight. Nothing is as it appears to be as we are swept into a very interesting world.
Tessa B C
Claude & Camille by Stephanie Cowell
The subtitle is all the synopsis you need: A Novel of Monet. It’s a good work of historical fiction, with a true-life romance at its core. Cowell does a good job of giving the reader a sense of the time and place, as well as the enthusiasm of youth, the passion of working toward one’s dream, the camaraderie of friends, and the safety of a steadfast love.
Nina
The Good Girl by Mary Kubica
This is a suspenseful, psychological mystery. The story unfolds through the eyes of the three main characters. It is definitely a character-driven novel. It is a page-turner for sure! The main theme plays out that nothing is really as it appear on the surface. Even apparently perfect families have secrets!
Rochelle
Missing Pieces by Heather Gudenkauf
I have read five of her books. All different but loved all. Great read. Did not want to put down.
Deb
Invasion of Privacy by Christopher Reich
"Big brother is watching you" and listening and tracking you with your cell phone! We all know that cell phone "people" know where we are with our phones, but this gets a little creepy when company and its people take over your life! All in the name of money and power. Edge of your seat reading. Good book!
Linda
Vanessa and Her Sister by Priya Parmar
This entire story was told through diary entries, postcards and telegrams. Vanessa's heartbreak and recovery shine through. Very well done!
Betty
All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr
This book was unlike any that I had ever read. It was very hard to read in the beginning, but I stuck with it and it was hard to put down. If you are looking for an uplifting book this was definitely not it. However, after I read the book I did look into the area where the book took place and other real things that were in the book.
Linda
Anybody Out There? by Marian Keyes
Anna Walsh's wonderful life is turned upside down when she wakes up back in her family home in Dublin. She's suffering from a dislocated kneecap, broken arm and a jagged scar down her cheek! And where's Aidan, her husband? She should be in New York with him! What's going on?
Julie
The Man Who Sold America by Jeffrey Cruikshank
As a Mad Men fan, I wanted to read this true bio of the first Mad Man. He created his magic during the golden years of advertising, from the turn of the twentieth century to the early 1950s. He was the man who realized that when a company spends money on advertising, it is an asset not an expense. He was the first man to convince the public that they not only needed the product, but that they really wanted to buy it. You will be amazed at the products that he brought into their own under his genius.
Mary
The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto by Mitch Albom
A great story about how the talent of music can change our lives.
Pam
The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto by Mitch Albom
Loved this book, especially the quirky characters and the narration by Music. The story of Frankie as he goes through his life, searching for love lost while sharing his musical talent with the world, is heartwarming. My only complaint was there were parts that were a bit redundant.
Marilyn
The Secret Keeper by Kate Morton
Quite a tangled web, definitely kept the pages turning!
Becky
Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper
Melody, eleven years old, is brilliant. She also has spastic bilateral quadriplegia (cerebral palsy), is confined to a wheelchair and cannot speak. When she gets a Medi-Talker that allows her to communicate, her life changes. OUT OF MY MIND tells Melody’s story of being confined in so many ways until her Medi-Talker arrives and the changes it makes in her life and the lives of those around her. Told sensitively and with compassion, it also tells of the story of a “normal” preteen confined in a disability. Draper writes with clarity. Melody is a well-rounded character as are her mother and father, neighbor and mentor, personal assistant and, most importantly, the other fifth graders and teachers.
Betty
No Time to Lose by Peter Piot
The first half of the book, about the author's time in Africa working on identifying the Ebola virus, is anecdotal and engaging. The rest of the book, detailing his time becoming an international AIDS guru, is less so. It is too focused on statistics and infighting between the UN and other agencies and NGOs, non-governmental organizations.
Becky
As the Poppies Bloomed by Maral Boyadjian
This bittersweet love story takes place in Turkish Armenia just before and during World War I, a time when the Muslim Turks and the Muslim Ottomans sought control over the Christian Armenians. Hidden away in a mountaintop village, 15-year-old Anno, daughter of the village Headman, falls in love with Daron, son of the local merchant. As village life proceeds, war and the Armenian genocide come ever closer. Boyadjian knows her subject well and relates it with sympathy and clarity. Anno and Daron become people you care deeply about. Conflict within the village and conflict with the outside world illuminate the plot. The village of Salor in the province of Sassoun is the focal point of the struggle between religions and politics.
Terri
The Precious One by Marisa de los Santos
I really enjoyed this book overall, but thought it was a better read through the first 3/4. The end was too predictable in many ways. Still, a good read.
Becky
City of Shadows by Ariana Franklin
What is not to like – the Grand Duchess Anastasia lives, a serial murderer is running amok, Hitler rises in a devastated Germany, an honest policeman is in a warren of corruption, and a woman of mystery tries to survive. Although slow getting started, this thriller is truly a thriller. There is enough actual history laced through the plot to give credence to the tale of murder, fraud and corruption amid a search for love, justice and honor. Esther, who carries the plot, is the woman of mystery, scarred and scared. Nick is the flamboyant owner of the flashiest and finest cabarets in the world’s flashiest city, although a Berlin struggling under the crushing load of war debt.
Michele
The Hurricane Sisters by Dorothea Benton Frank
This is the first book I've read by this author. I bought it to read in the airport and plane, and it was perfect for that. The beach would be great too when it gets warm. The book deals with a tough subject matter, abuse. The author does get into some of the identification signs. For a light and entertaining book there is something to be learned or remembered here, which is great. The chapters are narrated by the various characters. I had some false perceptions until the actual characters were flushed out in their narratives. Ms. Frank did an excellent job with that.
Becky
Salt to the Sea by Ruta Sepetys
Although a young adult novel, this tale of the end of World War II and the refugee ship Wilhelm Gustloff will also appeal to all who like historical fiction. Sepetys knows her subject well and is able to clearly voice each of the teens fleeing the fall of Germany. Each of the four teens tells their own story in alternating chapters, but the result is a devastatingly clear tale of desperation.
A nurse, a possible spy, a pregnant girl, a sailor aboard the doomed ship -- each adds their part as the story races to its conclusion. Sepetys is an excellent writer of atmosphere and character who is able to maintain tension throughout the novel.
Sandy
Silver Linings by Debbie Macomber
The Rose Harbor novels are a delight to read. SILVER LININGS is a warm and comfy book detailing the relationships between Rose and her guests.
Joan
The Snowman by Jo Nesbo
I read this book because it was being made into a movie with a favorite actor. I truly enjoyed the book, the characters and the setting. Had fun TRYING to pronounce the Norwegian places. I'll read more of Nesbo and Harry Hole.
Judith
We Never Asked for Wings by Vanessa Diffenbaugh
Loved the writing. Characters are authentic and compelling. Story moves along quickly. Plot is satisfying.
Judith
Black Rabbit Hall by Eve Chase
There's something about that old estate, Black Rabbit Hall, that beckons to Lorna as she and her fiancé look for a wedding venue. Time seems to move differently there. As Lorna becomes more and more compelled towards this old house, the mysteries surrounding her own family come to light, and she is drawn into the history of the house and its inhabitants no matter what her fiancé says.
Sandy
A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman
I loved this book!! Each chapter is like a new story in Ove's life, and it was a very fast and easy read.
Maureen
The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
This is more than a "behind the lines" book about WWII. The fully sketched characters will draw you in and make you part of the lives of the brave people fighting their own battles on the home front. Their incredible bravery and sacrifices will touch you in unimaginable ways. This book resonated with me and stayed with me for a long time.
Trina
Dead Lost by Helen H. Durrant
This was truly a great read! A definite page-turner without a dull moment. I could not put it down.
Miriam
After You by Jojo Mayes
I loved this sequel to ME BEFORE YOU even more than the original book. I loved reading about Lou again and loved reading about her recovery and budding relationship with Sam. She is a wonderfully quirky heroine.
LINDA BASS
Wife Me Bad Boy by Chance Carter
I received this ARC in return for an honest review and I jumped on the story! Chance Carter spins a humorous tale about Grant Lucas's firm denial that he'd never get married. Grant was bound for prison if not for the kindness of a man who took him into his home and showed him how to steal legally. He was skilled at ripping people off but he learned how to steal from corporations and give back to ordinary folks that needed the money to survive. At first when he saw Lacey Eden he fell in love but she was seventeen and he honored her father. Lacey Eden fell in lust when her father brought Grant home. She secretly fantasized about Grant laying hands on her and making love to her. Later, she compared every man to him.
Jan
The Sparrow by Mary Doria Russell
This is a beautiful book; Russell is a wordsmith. Jesuits and others set off for a distant planet with Jesuits funding the venture. So many things seem to happen with ease; the actual landing of the spacecraft, no hostile natives, the lead character (a Jesuit priest who is also a linguist) is able to communicate with relative ease. The explorers have gone to the new planet to explore and understand, not to convert the beings to Catholicism. The explorers are somewhat naive, live in harmony with the new-found species. The reason to read the book is to think about some age-old issues, morality (what is it?), gentleness with others, respect of others, and use/abuse of others. Best book I ever read.
Margaret
The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion
Don Tillman, a brilliant genetics professor, is getting serious about finding a wife. He is systemically creating a questionnaire to find a suitable partner without wasting time with ones who would never be acceptable to him. His situations are humorous and unpredictable as he is so creative and "thinks outside the box" to organize and survive. This is a lighthearted, positive look at how a productive person can overcome his weaknesses.
Vikki Cabral
Troublemaker: Surviving Hollywood and Scientology by Leah Remini
Scientology, Tom Cruise and all the LRH policies are just too weird. Anyone who needs a crazy cult to make every decision for them is lacking something in their life. I have only seen Leah Remini in "Old School." Interesting read. Lots of pictures to look at too.
Thomas Barrington
Once A Crooked Man by David McCallum
I enjoyed reading the book. It was very good.
Thomas Barrington
Family Secrets by Donna M. Zadunajsky
I thought the book was a good read.
Thomas Barrington
The Midnight Watch by David Dyer
I enjoyed reading the book. It was very good.
Thomas Barrington
Tricky Twenty-Two by Janet Evanovich
I really liked the book very much. I would recommend the book to anybody.
Lynn W
The Swans of Fifth Avenue by Melanie Benjamin
This book has been at the top of my "want-to-read" list since last fall because I remember, as a young girl, admiring magazine pictures of Babe Paley. I won't say the book was a disappointment, but it did take me over 80 pages to sort it out and start enjoying it. I also would have liked more of New York high society and lots less of Truman Capote.
Marie Ledin
The Bonding Spell (The Desert Goddess Series Book 1) by M. L. Doyle
I don't usually read books in this genre. I won this book from Ms. Doyle and finally have had a chance to read it -- thank you for the chance to enjoy your writing. Very surprisingly, I could not put this book down. Thoroughly enjoyed the goddess, demigod, human mix. Would definitely read another of Ms. Doyle's books.
shelly
Fortune's Secret Husband by Karen Rose Smith
Is there such a thing as love at first sight? Lady Lucie Fortune Chesterfield had gone to Scotland when she was seventeen and fell in love with the Chase Parker who was twenty-one, her guide. They married impulsively as she was old enough in Scotland to be married without her parents consent. The next thing they knew they found themselves in a hotel room and before they realized it Chase’s father tried to have the marriage annulled. Lucie was sent home and although they tried to communicate with each other, it never happened. Now, Chase is trying to apply for a loan and finds out that the marriage was never annulled and that they are still married. Chase has decided he wants to leave Parker Oil and establish a non-profit horse rescue.
Jeri Schejbal
Me After You by Jojo Moyes
Disappointing after the first book.
Judy O.
A Simple Plan by Scott Smith
This book was originally published in 1993, and it was recently loaned to me. Three men are out in the woods and come upon a small, crashed airplane with the dead pilot in front. Also in the plane is a large knapsack with over four million dollars in cash inside it. They take the cash, and in order to keep it, they hash out a "simple plan" as to how they will handle the money. The plot was fascinating, and I could hardly put it down. Warning --- there are several instances of vivid violence in the book. Not for the squeamish or faint of heart. A movie was made from this book in the late 1990s.
Gil
The Forsyte Saga by John Galsworthy
Hard to believe that a 900-page book written 100 years ago would be so interesting and easy to read. It is about a very wealthy London family with many characters, covering four generations. The story focuses on a few family members and their challenges. Jolyon Forsyte was the most likable while Soames Forsyte was the least. Irene Heron, a very beautiful woman associated with Jolyon and Soames, was at the center of significant controversies.
Gil
Did You Ever Have a Family by Bill Clegg
A house explodes and a story of the victims and survivors unfolds. The tragedy happened on the eve of Lolly and Will's wedding. Both Lolly and and Will are among the victims in the explosion. June, Lolly's mother, survives and their strained relationship is told. Will has a great relationship with his parents and siblings. The story involves the interaction of several characters and how the explosion has affected their lives. It all comes together in an unsuspected way.
Rena
Platinum Doll by Anne Girard
Never a fan of Jean Harlow's screen persona, I was pleasantly surprised by the way she is portrayed in this book. Not only does she develop a sense of self, but she also was literary and quick-witted. Still, she was shuttled into a female trope of the femme fatale that she wasn't able to escape in her short life. This book is a facile read, breezy in the Hollywood scenes I especially enjoyed. The author chose to focus on the disastrous early marriage and Harlow's concurrent rise to stardom. I found the portions of the book about her possessive, drunken husband trite, although based on Harlow's biography. Overall, I enjoyed the combination of 'self-made' (punched along by her domineering mother) and Bildungsroman.
Kathleen
When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi
This is one of the best books I have read in a long time. It is extremely well written and meaningful. There is a poetry to the writing and I was left marveling at what an amazing man Paul Kalanithi must have been.
Melanie S.
Troublemaker: Surviving Hollywood and Scientology by Leah Remini
I really enjoyed reading Ms. Remini's memoir. I found it honest and enlightening about Scientology. I felt she presented a fair and unbiased account of her experiences and truly feel for her trying to make her way in the world after 35 years as a Scientologist. It's scary to think how many people are sucked in by this "religion", although they do say that most are not college graduates. Ms. Remini was brought into the religion as a young child by her mother who was trying to make a better life for her children, so she did not come to it on her own as an adult. An interesting read.
Elizabeth
She Sins at Midnight by Whitney Dineen
Very entertaining book. Lila goes home for her high school reunion and meets a man on the plane who she used to pine over when she was younger. She doesn't recognize him, but their paths cross again. I actually laughed out loud a few times while reading this book. I highly recommend it as a light chick lit read.
Richard N B
13-1/2 by Nevada Barr
Much darker and more terrifying than the Anna Pigeon series by which most readers know Nevada Barr. I was captivated from the beginning, and Barr held my attention throughout. There is considerable foul language, and some very graphic scenes of violence.
Patricia
Case Histories by Kate Atkinson
I was a little disappointed in this book. I had watched a television version of this series (not sure if it was based on this book or not though) and I really enjoyed it. So I was excited to read the book. But there wasn't very much in the way of character development. And it just seemed a little unbelievable how all of this cases end up being related at the end.
Jeannie
Who Do You Love by Jennifer Weiner
A love story that allows the reader an inside look of an athlete and the trials that come from the sacrifices that everyone must make.
Lori
After the Wind by Lou Kasischke
The author is not the best writer but his account of his Everest expedition and how he survived it made for a very compelling read.
Jeannie
The Aviator's Wife by Melanie Benjamin
An easy to read historical fiction that tells the Charles Lindbergh story from Anne Lindbergh's perspective. I really enjoyed it cover to cover. A must-read.
Sherrie English
Testimony by Anita Shreve
This is a sad and fictionally real story of teens in a private high school. One incident, with its domino effect, spirals to change so many lives. It is told in a rotating fashion by each of the persons involved and those it touches.
Rosemary
Breakdown by Jonathan Kellerman
A little slow-moving, but good.
maureen
This Was Not the Plan by Cristina Alger
Charlie Goldwyn has lost his wife and now his job. As an attorney he worked 80+ hours a week and rarely had time to spend with his 5-year-old son. Now, he has all the time in the world and as he reconnects with his son and estranged father he realizes what his priorities are. Well written and parts will make you laugh out loud.
Jane
The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
Powerful and gripping, this book was one I could not put down. I wrapped myself up in the characters, rooting for Isabelle and watching as Vianne trusted whom she should not. A fabulous read and one I have heartily recommended.
Heather
A Memory of Violets by Hazel Gaynor
A MEMORY OF VIOLETS is a story that may have you shedding a tear by the last touching passage. Overcoming loss, finding strength and allowing forgiveness are general themes in this novel, along with the fascinating weaving of the awful plight of the 19th to early 20th-century flower and watercress sellers of London and the sentimental language of flowers.
Patti
Everything I Never Told You by Celeste Ng
Family secrets, family that does not communicate, expectations of one child or another, mixed race marriage, unhappiness -- this book has it all!
Peggy
The Readers of Broken Wheel Recommend by Katarina Bivald
As a book lover, I was excited by all the titles and authors referenced in this novel about a Swedish visitor coming to visit a pen pal in Iowa. However, I did not find the characters genuine or the plot plausible. I needed more details on what made the many characters click, and so could not believe the evolving story.
LINDA
A Touch of Ghost by Nic Saint
I was given this ARC in exchange for an honest review, and I am amazed at how these two authors can crank out such intriguing and hilarious stories! A TOUCH OF GHOST is Book 5 in The Mysteries of Bell & Whitehouse series, and I am sorry that I didn't read the rest! Alice Whitehouse is living in an inherited house with her best friend and their two boyfriends. They are both abducted by ghosts driving a black van and people are disappearing in the only hotel in Happy Bay.
Louise
The Golden Hour by Todd Moss
I read the sequel first and had to read THE GOLDEN HOUR. A different take on counter-terrorism.
Fran
Crazy by Linda Vigen Phillips
A novel written in verse, which depicts the story of a teenage girl who is coming to terms with her mother's mental illness. Told through stories of her family life, it is a strong story to depict what it may feel like to grow up with a mentally ill parent. As someone who's family life has been touched by mental illness, I was struck with some of the familiar themes the author depicted as well as those of my family members.
Hedwig
Angels Burning by Tawni O'Dell
I normally do not read Romance/Cozy mysteries; I was wrong as this is neither. It is well written. The main character reminds me at little of Kensey Millhone of the alphabet books. A very independent chief of police with a very sad early childhood. It is actually two mysteries in one - one is about the murder of a teenage girl and one is about the chief's mother's murder (when the chief was a teen), and it is told in alternating chapters. Kept you intrigued to the end. Looking forward to reading more about this character.
Bonnie
The Guest Room by Chris Bohjalian
Bachelor party, sex slaves, murder...need I say more? Riveting novel.
Hedwig
Salt to the Sea by Ruta Sepetys
A WWII historical novel of sinking of ships carrying refugees, fleeing of advancing Russian troops. My father married my mother in a refugee camp in Germany in 1947 when Germany and Russia invaded Poland in 1939. After the war, my parents refused to return to Poland as my father said that being ruled by Russia was as bad as being ruled by Germany. Russian troops were savage (rape and extreme destruction) to anyone they encountered in occupied countries. I believe that allied troops were told to stand down as the allies made a deal with the devil (Stalin) in order to beat Germany. I am glad that this book has been written and should be a historical must-read for the Young Adult group.
Antony
Beauty of The Beast by Viktoria Faust
This was a cracking read. Anyone who loves the vampire genre should read this. It was reminiscent of INTERVIEW WITH THE VAMPIRE by Anne Rice. The author comes from Serbia I believe, hence English is not her first language, and it does show in the writing, but as the book is set in Eastern Europe, her use of the English language gives it an authentic feel. I'd highly recommend this book for all vampire lovers. Or those who want to be one!
Susan
The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
Absolutely loved this book! It has stayed with me a long time.
Michelle
Outlander by Diana Gabaldon
Awesome book and story! Sucks you right in!
Norene
Brooklyn by Colm Toibin
An easy, enjoyable read.
Ilene
X by Sue Grafton
It kept me reading and I did want to finish it to see what happened, but it was not as good as her earlier books were.
Lynn W
The House of a Thousand Candles by Meredith Nicholson
THE HOUSE OF A THOUSAND CANDLES exists in Indianapolis, IN and is home to the Indiana Humanities. The Humanities operates a lending library for Indiana book clubs and, of course, this book is on the list. Published in 1907, I was expecting an old-fashioned love story. NOT! It is an old-fashioned mystery and a pretty good one, too. Looking forward to tomorrow night's meeting.
LINDA
Jax's Mate by Aurora Reid
I was given this ARC in exchange for an honest review and I loved Jax and Mia's story! As a kid, Mia was always left on the dance floor as no one asked her to dance. Then, when she finally gave up, she paced in the hallways or hid until the party was over. Since her dad stepped down, it was up to her to take over Marchini Construction and she had to get a signed contract with the bear shifters to build houses on her land, but she was nervous as the company and her employees were counting on her. Jax was a huge black bear Alpha lumberjack and he hated Lucca Marchini who tried to remove his clan from the land they'd been on for years.
Yaritza
A Moment to Dance (Whistle Stop Romance #2) by Jennifer Faye
This is a five star book. Jennifer did an awesome job of creating her characters. The characters were very well thought out. Loved the plot of Ella being a teacher and having to be scarred her whole life because of a incident from her past and Tony being a firefighter and losing someone very close to him. It was ironic that she falls in love with a firefighter while she had fought through her family home fire so many years before. Each character has a dark past and was struggling to live in the present. With love and determination they were able to help each other with their struggles and move on as one. Also, I enjoyed Johnny who caused so many worries for Ella and Tony. It was an added bonus.
Thomas
Killing Reagan by Bill O'Reilly and Martin Dugard
I thought this was a very good book to read. I would recommend this book to anybody.
Thomas
All Dressed in White by Mary Higgins Clark and Alafair Burke
I enjoyed the book very much. I would recommend this book to anybody.
Richard N B
I Heard You Paint Houses by Charles Brandt
3.5 stars. Brandt, a former prosecutor, managed to get Frank Sheeran to tell the true story of what happened to Jimmy Hoffa. I was interested, but disgusted with Sheeran and the other thugs profiled in the book.
Michael
Dark Spies by Matthew Dunn
Great spy thriller.
Marsha
Unbecoming by Rebecca Sherm
This is a strangely confusing psychological story of a girl from a small town in Tennessee who yearned to be part of a more social family. She fell in love as a very young teenager with the son of the family and eventually conspired with him and his two friends to commit a robbery. They were apprehended and she fled to Europe where she started a new life. But, things catch up with her and we wonder if she could possibly live happily ever after.
Annie
Broadway, Schrafft's and Seeded Rye by Lyla Blake Ward
BROADWAY, SCHRAFFT'S AND SEEDED RYE by Lyla Blake Ward is the second book Ms. Ward has written. If anything, she has improved her work. I enjoyed the first book immensely, so I really didn’t see a need for a lot of improvement in her writing skills. Growing up in Manhattan on the Upper West Side between 72ndth and 110th Streets, Ms. Ward grew up in what was considered a Jewish neighborhood. She indicates her entire world encompassed those few blocks and as she grew, her ability to navigate those streets increased.
Bonnie
My Name is Lucy Barton by Elizabeth Strout
Thoughtful, touching story of mother-daughter relationship and family.
Debbie
Every Crooked Nanny by Kathy Hogan Trocheck
Kathy Hogan Trocheck’s (Mary Kay Andrews) series with Callahan Garrity, the house cleaning detective remind the reader of Stephanie Plum, but Callahan's ranks higher in actual police work than Stephanie Plum. Callahan, like Stephanie, has the excess baggage of family, but Callahan handles the pressure better. I love the many cleaning ladies that work for Callahan and their lively interest in playing detective. Callahan likes to poke at injustice in the world, such as a big contractor trying to pull the wool over the eyes of an unsuspecting seller. Just for fun, Trocheck throws in a little romance.
Debbie
Treachery at Lancaster Gate by Anne Perry
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, but felt that the ending happened too quickly. The story contains many interesting information, and then the arrest and trial of the bomber finishes in a few chapters. Anne Perry excels in character presentation, especially in expressing their emotions, fears, and beliefs. The newspaper rants that the police lack honesty and valor, and that the time has come to end their rule. The book begins with a bombing in which three policemen die, and two suffer serious injury. Thomas Pitt, the commander of the Special Branch, rushes to find the bomber. Is the bomber a disgruntled foreigner? An anarchist? The year is 1899, and the average reader would find difficulty in seeing the same problems as today.
Diana
Pop Sonnets by Eric Didricksen
I received this book for an honest review. This book was hilarious. Well known pop songs from multiple generations getting a Shakespeare makeover. What made it even better is I just had to read multiple Shakespeare sonnets for a class I took this semester. If you enjoy reading Shakespeare or are a fan of Top 40 music, pick this up for a read. You won't regret it.
Jessica
The Shepherd by Lela K. King
Epic historically-set novel!
Francisca E B
The Women by T. C. Boyle
Boyle tells the story of Frank Lloyd Wright through the eyes of the women who loved him - his three wives and his mistress. The chronology moves back and forth, beginning with Wright’s last love, and the storyline seemed somewhat fractured. Despite the title and the organization of the book, the women come off as secondary to the man. Frank Lloyd Wright is a bigger-than-life presence here, and I grew tired of him.
Deb
My Name is Lucy Barton by Elizabeth Strout
Very typical of Elizabeth Strout's books where she writes about a very interesting and different from the "norm" people. Lucy's mother was very strange but you knew just how much she loved her daughter and wanted her to get well! A little disappointed that it was very similar to other stories where a very bright person is raised very isolated and different than most of us, yet turns out to be a worldly, successful person.
Mona
The Wrong Man by Kate White
THE SIXES was the first book I read by this author and I really enjoyed it. Since then, every single book of hers is a must-read for me. Her plots are intriguing and her writing style so engrossing that they draw the reader in from the start. This book was no exception. Kit Finn is an in-demand interior decorator based in Manhattan. She owns her own business, in partnership with Baby, an older and more experienced designer. Dara, a stylish woman in her twenties, is their assistant. The business is conveniently located in the same building in which Kit lives. An adjoining door provides easy access between her apartment and office.
Linda
The Casual Vacancy by J. K. Rowling
Well, this certainly isn't Harry Potter! A council member dies suddenly, leaving a vacancy on council. There was about to be a vote to decide whether the township remains independent or merges with another area. Hard to think of grieving an actual person when so much turmoil abounds.
Gail
Stars Over Sunset Boulevard by Susan Meissner
Highly entertaining! After winning this wonderful book from Bookreporter.com (thank you so much), I was thrilled when I learned that the plot surrounded not only a portrait of two women who became close friends and their fascinating friendship, but also them working at the studio filming "Gone With the Wind". One of the main threads of the story involves the hat worn by Scarlett O'Hara in the film. I was born in Atlanta in 1941 and grew up hearing all about this iconic movie and of course when I was old enough went to see it dozens of times over the years, along with reading the book many times! Loved this book and looking forward to reading more Susan Meissner's novels!!
Sally
Everything I Never Told You by Celeste Ng
I really loved this stunning novel about a mixed-race family (Asian American) living in Ohio in the 1970s. It deals with grief, the crushing expectations of parents, pretending to be something you are not, trying to fit in...and so much more. It is hard to believe that this is the author's first novel. Haunting.
Sanja
Once Bitten, Twice Die by Antony J. Stanton
Great vampire action novel!
Dawn
Fates and Furies by Lauren Groff
This is one of the best books I have read all year long. Lauren Groff writes sentences that read like poetry, at times with romantic descriptions and comparisons that you fall into and roll with as along a slow moving stream. There are also times she writes with such intellect using allegory , metaphors, symbolism and comparisons that challenge a reader who is not used to reading with such depth to know exactly how unique and complicated she has created each of her characters. You become so involved in the relationships between the main two characters and also their relationships as they grow and change among those who are deeply involved that you find yourself begging for fate to overcome all furies in this complex read.
Alex
Going Home by Danielle Steel
Looking for a very light read since I have the flu, I picked up my never read copy of Danielle Steel's first book. Let's just say she has come a long, long, way since this first 1973 novel. Terms that would be unacceptable in today's books, and I'm sure she would never use them so casually now, are a bit hard to ignore, but I tried. The plot is typical of most Steel books --- a heroine makes a choice, has an event occur out of left field, and picks up the pieces of her life and moves on. The best part of Ms. Steel's writing is her descriptions (see HOTEL VENDOME and FINE THINGS for two particularly good examples). San Francisco, New York, food and fashions come alive; it's her characters that got better with practice.
