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April 1, 2016 - April 15, 2016

This contest period's winners were Carol B., Kathryn A. and Ruth U., who each received a copy of THE 14TH COLONY by Steve Berry, LILAC GIRLS by Martha Hall Kelly and MILLER'S VALLEY by Anna Quindlen.

 

Marsha
Splinter the Silence by Val McDermid

5
This acclaimed best-selling author writes a series about Carol Jordan and Tony Hill who now head a newly formed investigative team that is tracking a serial killer who is targeting women who are feminists. It is finely written and a psychological thriller as well as a first-rate police procedural.

Bonnie
The Pearl That Broke Its Shell by Nadia Hashimi

4
Fascinating novel about women's lives in early 20th century Afghanistan and again in more contemporary times. Alas, the more things change the more they remain the same.

shelly
The Christmas Wedding Ring by Susan Mallery

4
When Molly Anderson was growing up she had a crush on Dylan Black who seemed like the bad boy. He was even set to marry her sister Janet but they cancelled it. Janet is moving on and getting married and Dylan is going to leave town. He stops by the church and sees Molly and gives her the ring he had all intentions of giving to her sister. He tells her if you are ever looking for fun and adventure come find me. Many years have passed and when Molly is dumped by her fiancé before Christmas, she decides she just has to get away. She had had a terrible week and three very upsetting things have happened to her. She is not sure why but she finds Dylan and he is still the gorgeous boy/man she had always had deep feeling for.

Dorothy
The Road To Little Dribbling by Bill Bryson

4
An enjoyable book written about the author's second journey around Great Britain. I would have enjoyed the book a bit better if it were 50 or so less pages. He puts into humorous words what many feel as they travel to various locations.

myrna
The Widow by Fiona Barton

4
Edgy mystery along the lines of THE GIRL ON THE TRAIN but better written and better plotted.

Kay
The Long Way Home by Louise Penny

5
Another thriller about our beloved Gamache.

Beatrice
Georgia by Dawn Tripp

5
Sensual story of Georgia O'Keeffe's life. I loved the beautiful scenic locations and references to art.

Rena
Kitchens of the Great Midwest by J. Ryan Stradal

4
Loved the narrative structure where we learn plot and character of the central figure through changing points of view. But I feel like it lost its fizz toward the end.

Linda
Late Wife by Claudia Emerson

4
This small book of poetry won the Pulitzer in 2006. It is easy to see why.

Deborah
Vinegar Girl by Anne Tyler

3
This updated version of THE TAMING OF THE SHREW is a fun read (but I like more substance). Tyler's characters are considerably toned down from the original. Daughter of a widowed scientist, Kate takes care of the household and her 15-year-old sister Bunny and works at a day care. She resembles Shakespeare's Kate only in being blunt with people, but most of the time she just wants to be left alone. Her father fears that if his Russian research assistant's visa isn't renewed, his project will go down the tubes, so he cooks up an arranged marriage between Pyotr and Kate. Pyotr is not as outrageous as Petrucchio: he merely suffers from a foreigner's unfamiliarity with language and customs, which annoys Kate but seems to charm everyone else.

Phyllis
All-Girl Filling Station's Last Reunion by Fannie Flagg

4
After reading THE GIRLS OF ATOMIC CITY, this book was recommended because it deals with another facet of women in WWII. Although it was Flagg's usual Southern touch, I learned so much about WASPS and women pilots. Highly recommended it you are a WWII buff as I am! It was a fun read around the pool in Aruba.

Lynn Thomas
Redemption Road by John Hart

3
I think highly of Hart's previous books: The King of Lies, Down River, and The Lost Child. This one, which I read in an advance reader copy, was not bad, but not as well put together as his first three. In spite of several complicated, intertwined characters, the villain was somewhat predictable before the end. Good writing, though. I rate it 3-1/2 stars.

Betty
All Things Cease to Appear by Elizabeth Brundage

3
George, Catherine and little Franny move to a farm from the big city. The farm had been owned by the Hale family for more than 100 years, but when they fell on hard times the parents committed suicide. Is the farm haunted? Is Catherine crazy? Is George crazy? Is a serial killer on the loose or is it a local psychopath? What happens to the townsfolk and how is it all connected?

Nancy
The Theory of Death by Faye Kellerman

4
I love this series. Peter Decker is a Jewish detective in California. I believe this series should be read from the beginning. It tells the story of a Jewish family from the time they wed and continues as their family grows up. This particular book takes place after Peter retires from the LAPD and takes a job in a small town in upper New York to get away from all the stress. They find the body of a nude male, who is a student at a nearby college. They have to find out if this is a suicide or murder.

Myrna
Leaving Time by Jodi Picoult

4
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, which taught me so much about the life and habits of elephants. It also involved a touch of the paranormal, making it a very interesting book indeed!

Louise
The Plague of Thieves Affair by Marcia Muller and Bill Pronzini

4
Delightful antics of a faux Sherlock Holmes and two private detectives in turn-of-the-century San Francisco.

Pamela
Hemingway in Love by A. E. Hotchner

5
Great addition to the canon of books out now about Hemingway, like THE PARIS WIFE.

Peggy
The Professor and the Madman by Simon Winchester

3
This is a fascinating true story about the writing of the Oxford English Dictionary. One of the main contributors was an American surgeon who was sent to Bedlam, the hospital for the criminally insane patients, after he killed a man in London. Dr. Minor was a fascinating character who was a wealthy intellectual, and he amassed a large library of valuable books. He responded to the query from Professor Murray and contributed thousands of words for submission. The whole process took many years and tremendous effort. It's amazing to think that before THE OXFORD ENGLISH DICTIONARY, the English language had not had a dictionary.

Gail
The Summer Before the War by Helen Simonson

5
The idyllic setting of Rye, Sussex, England during the last of the Edwardian times prior to WWI provides a dramatic contrast to changes that came during the cataclysmic years of 1914-1918. Agatha particularly struggles with the propriety of society compared to the wartime days. Celeste, Belgian refugee, and Beatrice Nash are companions that adored their late fathers but come to realize their weaknesses. Both young women struggle to find a place in the new order. Told with smart dialogue, poignant descriptions of the countryside, the reader is quickly drawn into the struggles with society, love, and the colliding worldly events. The reader needs a Kleenex or two needed for this novel.

Maureen
Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte

3
I never had to read this in school, but have wanted to read it for years. I enjoyed it, although it was a slow read. I look forward to reading the other Brontes' books.

Elaine Baxter
The Silence of the Sea by Yrsa Sigurdardottir

5
Excellent reading from an international author. I do not want to give the plot away, but after reading you will look for more books from this author.

Nissa
Amherst by William Nicholson

3
I enjoyed reading about life in Amherst in the 1800s. The history of Emily and her family is interesting. Although the story focuses on her brother Austin and his mistress Mabel, Emily's character and influence runs throughout the novel. I wasn't familiar with her poetry, and the author's information on how she got published and became famous is very interesting. If you enjoy historical fiction, this book is for you!

Nancy
The Nazi Officer's Wife by Edith Hahn Beer

4
This is not a new book, but it was selected for one of my book clubs. It tells the story of a Jewish woman during the Holocaust who survives by taking on a Christian identity. She then marries a Nazi officer who knows she is Jewish but keeps her secret. The book tells the true story of how she survived, even going without painkillers during childbirth, in fear that she might give her secret away. Her fear isn't limited to the Germans; as the Russians are victorious, they wage their own war on civilians, continuing Edith's terror in a new way.

Katherine Bennett
The Widow by Fiona Barton

5
This book kept me guessing until the end. Excellent mystery about a creepy man with secrets. He was very much a controller towards his wife, who had her secrets also. I'll look forward to other books by this author.

Mary Sue
A New Kind of Monster by Timothy Appleby

4
Who knew that a respected Canadian Air Force commander could be capable of killing young girls, keep it all secret, and also manage to also keep his high level job. This is the riveting true story of Russell Williams who, in addition to his murderous acts, was also compelled to pursue an addiction to pornography as well as collecting women's underwear. He was so trusted that he was once given the job of flying the Queen of England over to Canadian shores. The book is satisfying, especially since it's conclusion is "real justice".

Jenny
The Last Breath by Kimberly Belle

5
From the first page I was hooked. Ray is being released from prison, dying from cancer. He returns home and is cared for by his estranged daughter, Gia. She wants answers. Did he kill her stepmother? If not, then who did? This book is a roller-coaster ride of emotions and family secrets. Gia embarks to find answers and falls in love in the process. Who can she trust and can she find out if her father is to blame before he dies? New evidence leads her to a long-buried secret and other townspeople are involved. This book is well written, well paced and the characters are memorable. I highly recommend this page-turner.

Jan Zahrly
The Bishop's Wife by Mette Ivie Harrison

5
This is the first novel about Linda Wallheim, the wife of a Mormon bishop. It is light fare for a mystery but is very interesting because it is written by a Mormon. I learned a lot about the Mormon faith from this book. There are two murders in the book and Linda helps solve both of them. One happened decades ago and one is a murder waiting to happen when a young Mormon wife leaves home, leaving her 4-year-old child, and it is later discovered that her husband drove her to the bus station. He initially claims to know nothing about her absence. One of the murders is easy to see; the second is not. Harrison presents the good with the bad about the Mormon church. A good read!

Dorothy
Me Before You by Jojo Moyes

5
This was an excellent book about how one person can make a huge difference in one's life. I enjoyed this book from the first place until the very end. Although I did feel the end left us hanging a bit. However, I do plan to read the next book in this series to find out more.

Pattie
The Little Paris Bookshop by Nina George

5
Lovely love story, beautifully written of love lost and found. A book lover's book.

Kathryn
The Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper by Phaedra Patrick

4
Widower Arthur Pepper is going through the closet of his late wife, Miriam, when he comes across a charm bracelet that he's never seen before. Arthur, a very routine-driven homebody, sets out to discover the story of each charm and who Miriam was before she was Miriam Pepper. This becomes an adventure that takes Arthur not only out of his town, but out of the country and across the world. A great book for relaxing on the deck with a glass of iced tea. A reminder that the only constant is change.

Patricia Lewis
The Road to Little Dribbling by Bill Bryson

4
Bill knows how to describe his travels like nobody else. England is described from its shores to its mountains, hills, gardens, parks, castles, pathways, hotels, pubs. Fun read.

Cindy
Reclaiming Conversation by Sherry Turkle

4
A fantastic analysis of the effect digital devices play in our relationships with family, friends, and coworkers; this book is sure to ignite great discussions in any book group!

Jackie
Scandalous Behavior by Stuart Woods

4
Another quick read with Stuart Woods' signature twists and turns. I look forward to each new book he writes.

Muriel
The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyland in a Ship of Her Own Making by Catherynne M. Valente

4
This is a magical, beautifully written young adult/children's fantasy book and not my usual type of book at all. My husband loves fantasy and brought it to my attention. The book is part of a series. If you are a fantasy reader, I would highly recommend it. I would have to say I am eager to get back to the historical fiction, which I love, but it's good to read from a different genre sometimes. Valente does have a wonderful imagination, and there are some vivid descriptions of characters and places in Fairyland the little girl called September visits on her journey fraught with perils and adventure.

Wendy
The Porcelain Thief by Huan Hsu

4
This is both a story of one family and a history of China. The author's great-great-grandfather was a scholar and landowner in China, and his lifespan covered the last of the emperors, then the Republicans, Japanese invasion and Communist takeover. He collected a great deal of porcelain, which had to be buried when the Japanese invaded and the family fled to safety. They returned after the war, but the Civil War started immediately and it was not a good time to dig up the buried treasure. When the Communists won they stripped the patriarch of his land, and he died soon after. Huan became intrigued by the story and moved to China to try to find it. Very interesting and well written.

Susan
The Blue Hour by Douglas Kennedy

2
Very disappointing from an author I follow. It is a thriller with an unbelievable main character who chases around Morocco searching for her husband who has betrayed her.

Nadine
Three Wishes by Liane Moriarty

4
Lyn, Cat, and Gemma Kettle, beautiful thirty-three-year-old triplets, seem to attract attention everywhere they go. Together, laughter, drama, and mayhem seem to follow them. But apart, each is dealing with her own share of ups and downs. It is a wise, witty, and hilarious novel.

Nina
A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman

5
Ove's is a delightfully poignant story of love loss, coming to terms with a changing neighborhood and finding a way to exist after the death of his wife. Brutally frank, witty and often honest, Backman allows Ove to express his feelings and often state what many of us think about others/situations.

Marion
The Swans of Fifth Avenue by Melanie Benjamin

5
This was a delicious book that I bought for my Kindle through your Amazon link (that was a great idea by one of your readers!) I so enjoyed how gossipy this was, but I was saddened by the life Babe Paley had to live in order to meet her mother's expectations. I can't image sleeping with my makeup on so my husband never sees me without it. Truman Capote was as I expected, gossipy and mean-spirited.

Marcia
Regrets Only by M. J. Pullen

3
I won this book. It turned out better than I thought. Suzanne is an event planner. She is drugged at a major event and causes a scandal. Dylan, the country singer who hosted the event, steps in to help her. The stalker who is after Suzanne is persistent and her life is in danger. The book deals with friendships, mystery, and love. Thought it would be a total fluff book, but it turned out to be an entertaining read. Nothing deep here, but enjoyable.

Stephanie
The Pecan Man by Cassie Dandridge Selleck

5
Wonderful story of family commitment even when family does not recognize it. I loved the dialect. Sometimes I find dialect difficult to read, but this fit right in!

Cori
Britt-Marie Was Here by Fredrik Backman

5
Fredrik Backman is fast becoming one of my favorite authors. His sweet stories of relationships, love and adventure really tug at my heartstrings. If you’ve read Backman’s, MY GRANDMOTHER ASKED ME TO TELL YOU SHE'S SORRY, you will recognize his unforgettable character Britt-Marie. After leaving her cheating husband, Britt-Marie sets off to find a job and begin anew. She’s always lived for others. She doesn’t know who she is. No one “sees” her. Can she find her identity? Will she discover compassion and kindness outside of her orderly loveless world? If you want to read a heartwarming tale that at times will make you smile, laugh, cringe and even cry, this one is for you.

Peggy
The Flood Girls by Richard Fifield

4
When I first started reading the book, I didn't think that I would finish it much less really enjoy it. The book's characters (and they are true characters!) captured me. I could not put it down after the first chapter.

Alison
Ordinary Grace by William Kent Krueger

5
FINALLY - a book I couldn't put down and that was worthy of my undivided time and attention! I loved the small-town setting, the sweet relationship between the narrator and his younger brother, the complexities and nuances of the many characters and the general message of hope in the tender mercies of God. This is one of my new favorites and that's a pretty select group!

Alison
The Traitor's Wife: The Woman Behind Benedict Arnold and the Plan to Betray America by Allison Pataki

5
I'm a little ashamed to admit that I don't remember much about Benedict Arnold, which is why I chose this book. I really enjoyed the book and learning about the characters surrounding him and providing a possible reason for his deception. The author wove some fictitious characters into the story but explains what is and isn't factual in the epilogue. Great read!

Jean
Salt to the Sea by Rita Sepetys

5
Another winner from Sepetys. A memorable book about Nazi Germany and the sinking of the Wilhelm Gusthoff.

Betty
The Summer Before the War by Helen Simonson

4
I would have given it 5 stars, but it was a little too long. However, Simonson proves she is a master at giving us interesting characters that we come to love. The historical aspect is first rate, as is the feeling of the time. I heartily recommend it.

Kathy
Tapestry of Fortunes by Elizabeth Berg

4
I think we all need a good women bonding story every now and then, and Berg delivers. TAPESTRY is funny, heartbreaking and romantic, all in perfect doses.

Dorothy
Property of a Noblewoman by Danielle Steel

5
As with all her books, money is no problem. An abandoned safety deposit box is opened and found filled with priceless jewels. The owner has died almost penniless with no will. The jewels are going to be auctioned off and the proceeds will go to the state. A real good, easy read.

Pauline
The Readers of Broken Wheel Recommend by Katarina Bivald

4
Small town America, a diverse group of quirky characters, the positive act of the nature of reading, and a happy ending make for a great read. What more could you ask for?

Beverlee
The Distance Between Us by Reyna Grande

4
A funny and sad book about parents, home and being a child.

Jud
Blind Goddess by Anne Holt

4
Great book if you enjoy a good police procedural.

SHELIA
Charade by Sandra Brown

4
Turned out I had read this book before but well worth reading again. A romantic thriller with social implications including the foster care system and organ transplants, but it is in no way heavy or preachy. Just gets you thinking about all the angles at play in these complex situations. And that love really can conquer all. And that sometimes things aren't always as they seem.

Marsha
The Waters of Eternal Youth by Donna Leon

4
Commissario Guido Brunnetti is tasked with doing a favor for a friend and that is to solve a 15-year old mystery with what happened to her granddaughter. Again, this is a lovely portrait of everyday life in the city of Venice and of the well-drawn characters, especially those in his office.

Charlene
Critical Mass by Sara Paretsky

5
I started reading this book at noon. At 7:15 pm I closed the book, and realized I had read it cover to cover without moving, getting a drink of water, nothing. It is the kind of story that once you start it you can't stop. It was a great read, a thoroughly enjoyable story. I went back to re-read the "thanks" page, then googled the links Ms. Paretsky mentioned in her history section!

Linda
The Girl in the Red Coat by Kate Hamer

5
THE GIRL IN THE RED COAT is one of those stories that will stay with you for a long time. Although slightly disturbing, you are unable to put it down. Kudos to Kate Hamer for writing an interesting tale of one of a mother's greatest fears - childhood abduction.

Donna
Britt-Marie Was Here by Fredrik Backman

3
Britt-Marie leaves her unfaithful husband and takes a temporary job in a small and dying town in an attempt to sort out the rest of her life. She is very set in her ways and a bit quirky. In a very short time, she becomes an important fixture. This book is humorous along with being sad.

Laurice
The Fire Between High & Lo by Brittainy Cherry

4
Angst.

Kelli
The Bazaar of Bad Dreams by Stephen King

4
Stephen King is a master storyteller, and this collection of short stories proves his genius. The collection is vintage King and does not disappoint. A brief introduction to each story by King is the perfect touch. A great read for fans of Stephen King or fans of short stories.

Michelle
Lonesome Dove by Larry McMurtry

3
Hard to start but beautifully written.

Libby Clark
My Name Is Lucy Barton by Elizabeth Strout

4
Liked the book. I belong to a book club of 9 women. We will be reading the book for our April book club selection.

Lori
Behave by Andromeda Romano-Lax

3
I had to force myself to continue reading this book past the beginning because I found the psychological experiments being done to children so distressing. As I had received an advance copy of the book and wanted to give it a fair try, I stuck with it and found it improved as the book moved away from the laboratory. I found both of the main characters unlikable, although I felt sympathy for Rosalie. It's difficult to relate to an intelligent woman mindlessly accepting her husband's theories and using them to raise their children. It becomes even more difficult to understand when one sees how badly she was treated by her husband, both with his infidelities and his lack of respect for her professional skills. Very discussable, though.

Ann
Most Wanted by Lisa Scottoline

3
I'm a big fan of Ms. Scottoline's "Bernie Rosato" novels, and was excited that our book club won a contest to receive ARCs of this book. It was a little disappointed that it wasn't a Rosa story, even more so, now that I've read it. The premise - a sperm donor suspected of being a serial killer, while possible, just doesn't strike me as very plausible. I was going along with it though, for the first half of the book, until the characters sort of went off the deep end. The characters were not very satisfying, not believable for me, and not very well developed. The whole story was like an episode of some TV series.

Betty
Me Before You by Jojo Moyes

5
I am not usually a romance reader but this book took my heart in the very beginning. By the end of the book I was in tears. Such a touching story. I highly recommend this book, but be sure you have your tissues handy.

Maleen
On Fire by John O'Leary

5
This book is part memoir (told from the perspective of a 9-year-old-boy who was burned over 98% of his body in the family garage) and part challenge to be brave and kind. Sounds "schmaltzy," but that it is not. During the many months of hospitalization, therapies, debridement, grafting etc., John is visited by many "random" people who leave an important mark on his scarred psyche, people who came to him and "accidentally" inspired him to persevere. This book is about being fully alive even in the face of death, about striving to succeed no matter what the limitations, about seeing the possibilities that always exist before us and reaching for them. It also shows the impact one person can have on another. It's a book about kindness. Read it.

Peggy
Murder in Thrall by Anne Cleeland

5
Also finished MURDER IN RETRIBUTION by the same author.

Judy O.
The Confession by John Grisham

5
The book is copyright 2010, but I took it off my shelves and enjoyed it again. Donte Drumm, a young teen football player and all-around popular high school student, has been on death row in Huntsville for 9 years for a murder that he did not commit. He has less that 4 days until his execution. A Lutheran pastor in Kansas gets positive proof that he is innocent, and he has to prove it fast. This was an exciting story.

Richard N B
The Good Thief's Guide to Amsterdam by Chris Ewan

4
This is the first in a mystery series featuring Charlie Howard, successful author and part-time professional burglar. I thought it was highly entertaining, with a fast pace, interesting characters, and a great setting. I’ll definitely read more of this series.

Candace
East of Eden by John Steinbeck

5
I am not a big Steinbeck fan except for this fantastic book. The language is so descriptive that your imagination kicks right in and you feel the places the characters inhabit and become immersed in the story. It was excellent for book club because of all the themes and memorable characters lead to a top-notch discussion.

Terri
The Guilty by David Baldacci

5
Has Will Robie lost his skill at being one of the best CIA operatives? When he accidentally kills a child who was in the line of fire and them freezes on his next assignment it looks that retirement is in his future. When he is attempting to figure out what went wrong he discovers that his father, who he has not seen in over twenty years, has been arrested for murder. Robie goes back to the town and father he has not seen since he left in the middle of the night to confront his past, find answers about himself and helps his father, who does not want his help. While investigating the murder his father is accused of committing, there are many plot twists that will keep you up late. A must-read for Will Robie fans.

Debbie
The Hundred-Foot Journey by Richard C. Morais

4
I thoroughly enjoyed the movie version, but the book overwhelms the senses with the excellent use of language in describing food, settings, and characters. The book takes a different path than the movie, and towards the end of the book that path has faltered. The story leads the reader through delectable, but haughty cuisine, and along the way, many memorable characters enhance the senses. Richard C. Morais carefully explains many exotic dishes to the reader, and I for one, still prefer the ordinary menu. I enjoyed hearing about the cost, the training, and the competition for top chefs in France, and the status of the Michelin star for a restaurant.

Debbie
Fragile Brilliance by Eliot Parker

3
FRAGILE BRILLIANCE stands as a finalist in the Pat Conroy 2016 thriller book prize and after an extensive search, I do not know the guidelines for this prize other than a book Southern in nature and writer by a Southern writer, and written in 2015. FRAGILE BRILLIANCE fits these categories. The book covers a short period in the life of a West Virginia policeman fighting an overwhelming war against drug traffic at the university level. So many of the trite Southern themes of quirky women, sweet tea and Southern food, and ancestral location do not appear in this story. The story does center on a homosexual couple, and the description of their loving went a little too far for me. I missed the character development and setting description.

Fran
Freak (Creep Series Book #2) by Jennifer Hillier

4
Jennifer Hillier continues the story of Abby Maddox, in her gory, gruesome and extremely suspenseful page-turning manner. I read this one on vacation. I cringed at many graphic points but couldn't stop turning the pages.

LINDA
A Dark and Broken Heart by R. J. Ellory

5
Although I won this book, I never agreed to review it, but this book is an incredible read and one I certainly enjoyed!

Michael
The Best of Our Spies by Alex Gerlis

4
Story takes place during World War II. A German spy is sent to England where she is discovered. She does not know that the British know about her so a plan is hatched where she is trained to be a British spy and then sent to France to mislead the Germans about where the D-Day landings will take place. A very good story which I recommend.

LINDA
Bound by Legend by A. D. Trosper

5
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review. This author never disappointed me with her snarky and witty story! Nineteen-year-old Morgan Brooks was said to be a "channel" where she can see demons that invaded Denver and sent them back to the underworld where they belong, but they never stay for long. She already experienced more death than she could handle, especially after her dark angel gets killed while he helped her. She knows that not staying in one place too long is the only way to survive, and living on the cold streets and never getting close to another being is best for her as the demons will kill anything and anyone that gets too close. Lucien, a dark angel has been sent to keep Morgan safe.

Josie
The Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper by Phaedra Patrick

4
Thoroughly enjoyed this book. I liked Arthur Pepper, and cared about his journey from grief to realizing his life was not over. The charm bracelet is an endearing catalyst for building the story. I was also intrigued by Miriam's story. I felt like each chapter revealed new things about Arthur, Miriam, as well as a great cast of supporting characters. If you liked "Harold Fry" you will enjoy this book.

Linda
Any Human Heart by William Boyd

4
This won't be the only time that I read this book. The reader is immersed in Logan Gonzago Mountstuart's life from his birth in February, 1906 until his death in October, 1991. Through highs and lows, marriages, affairs, war and death, Boyd makes him real. I didn't always like the way Mountstuart conducted himself, but I was never willing to give up on him.

Jan Zahrly
When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi

5
Just as the author was finishing training as a neurosurgeon, he discovered that he had Stage IV lung cancer. After chemo and trial therapies, he was too exhausted to do much of anything. But he always loved words and writing, so he wrote this book. He died before he finished it. The last chapter is written by his wife. The book is about his maturing, learning about physical suffering and what can ease emotional suffering. It is a book that anyone can learn from and maybe it can make us better people when we deal with our own deaths and the illnesses of others. Most of all he wanted to know what makes a moral, virtuous life; he wondered if he had led such a life, especially when he had to leave it so early. A great book to help us see death.

Lynn W
Bittersweet by Colleen McCullough

4
Can you imagine? Two sets of girl twins born to two mothers only 20 months apart! Edda and Grace, Tufts and Kitty share a father and a dislike for their step-mother/mother. Set in Australia in the 20s and the early 30s, these four women have each others' backs while navigating life, love, and the Great Depression.

Thomas
Chasing the North Star by Robert Morgan

4
I enjoyed this book very much. It was very interesting.

Marilyn
Keep Me Posted by Lisa Beazley

4
This is a fun novel about the lost art of letter writing in this day of tech-savvy times where we so quickly send instant messages, text messages, and emails, rather than letters on paper. Two sisters who live far apart, one in New York and the other in Singapore, decide to write letters on paper to each other in order to strengthen their relationship. When the letters accidentally get published on the internet, the drama ensues. Young mothers will especially enjoy the descriptions of parenthood!

Thomas
The Devil's Diary by Robert K. Wittman and David Kinney

4
I thought this was a very good book. It was very informative.

Marsha
The Passenger by Lisa Lutz

5
Wow -- I never saw the ending coming. I read lots of thrillers and this was one I really enjoyed. A girl on the run who changes her identity several times is the protagonist and we wonder where she will go next. What a ride.

Thomas
Rogue Lawyer by John Grisham

5
I really enjoyed readng this book. It was a very good read.

Thomas
The Widow by Fiona Barton

4
It was a good book. I enjoyed it.

JUANITA ADAMSON
The Kitchen House by Kathleen Grissom

5
Loved the book! Loved all of the characters - great book. Hard to put down.

Deb
The Sound of Gravel by Ruth Wariner

4
Such an amazing story! Ruth and her family endured many years of abuse and neglect at the hands of her stepfather. Ruth's mother loved her family so much, but risked their lives daily to live in a world that most of us do not understand. She was an amazing woman who wanted nothing but to raise her family in her church. I was appalled that the church did not protect her precious children from the abuse that they lived with everyday. I was very glad to know that Ruth was able to escape with her siblings and went on to live a wonderful life. She was amazing!

Thomas
The Bazaar of Bad Dreams by Stephen King

5
It was a very good book.

Helen brady
A Paris Apartment by Michelle Gable

4
We read this for our March book club, and we all loved it!!! We found pictures of the real Paris apartment that was found untouched in 2010.

Judy
The Witches: Salem, 1692 by Stacy Schiff

3
I really expected to like, even love, this book. I love historical books and have always been interested in learning about the Salem witch trials. Unfortunately, this book's focus was more on the men who instigated and conducted the trials and not the trials or the accused. Suffice it to say that while I learned a few new things, the book was generally disappointing.

Jud
The Meat Racket by Christopher Leonard

5
If you've ever wondered how Tyson became so successful, this book is a must-read. I've worked in and around the poultry industry but most of my experience is as a USDA inspector. I learned an incredible amount from this book about how the growers get paid and about the "tournament," something you'll understand once you read the book. I'm sure Tyson would prefer that this book had never been published.

Anita
Front Lines by Michael Grant

5
This is a young adult book set during WWII with the premise that women were allowed to serve on the front lines alongside men. The author focuses on four young adults facing different types of service in the branches of the armed forces. It is an interesting concept, and the author describes the battle scene in such a way that it feels like I am right there in the trenches with Rio experiencing the gamut of feelings running through her head. It is an excellent book!

Bonnie
Headstrong: 52 Women Who Changed Science - and the World by Rachel Swaby

4
52 fascinating mini-biographies of inspiring women. Buy this for your daughters, granddaughters, and nieces.

Brady
Call Me Anna: The Autobiography of Patty Duke by Patty Duke

5
Patty Duke recently died so I got her book to get me up to date. What a harrowing life by living with a mental disorder that is terrible. Then, coupled with a non-aggressive mother and a tiger aggressive couple that dictated everything happening as a young and then older girl's life, you have one mixed up individual. Plus, a genuine mental condition leads to a screwed up life for many decades. 'Tis a wonder she lived as long as she did, but with all her ups and downs, she did live a fruitful life and discovered a way to combat her mental problems. A good read for sure.

Patricia
The Cruelest Month by Louise Penny

5
I really enjoyed this book and I'm loving this series! A blogger I follow said that this book was their least favorite of the series, so I was a little hesitant going in. But I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed it. I think part of it is I'm a huge Agatha Christie fan (particularly Hercule Poirot), and this book really reminded me of Christie's books. You have a lot of suspects, all of them with motive and means. But I wasn't able to pick who the killer was before the big reveal. I also enjoyed the side story of Gamache's war with headquarters. Can't wait to read the next in the series!

Jeanine
The Sweet By and By by Todd Johnson

5
The five women in this lovely book are memorable characters, so well developed. There's great wisdom to be learned from them -- about friendship, life, and death. Funny, insightful, poignant.

Laurice McClung
The Witch's Daughter by Paula Brackston

4
4.75 out of 5 stars.

Marsha
Private: #1 Suspect by James Patterson and Maxine Paetro

5
This combo writing team is the best of the lot. Private's owner is framed for a murder and he suspects his twin brother is responsible. Meanwhile, his personal life is a mess and many incidents are keeping Private Investigations very busy.

Lesley
The Wind Is Not a River by Brian Payton

5
This is the most powerful book I have read in a very long time. It is also beautifully written. The characters and plot are believable fiction set against a part of WW II history I knew nothing about, the Japanese invasion of the Aleutian Islands. It is also a story about two people in love searching for each other across thousands of miles against unbelievable odds. This is one of those books you can't put down until you finish the last page.

Anna
When I Found You by Catherine Ryan Hyde

5
I loved this story. My expectations of Nate's behaviors were frequently mistaken. I kept thinking he would "come to his senses" and behave as society and his mentor, Nathan, would have him behave. This story kept me in suspense and seemed true to real life. I greatly admired Nathan's patience and love. I will read this again some day.

Charlene Biltz
X by Sue Grafton

5
Although her age remains the same, Kinsey Mikhone seems more introspective in "X". More than in A through W, I was given a look at her feelings and, even perhaps, disappointments in some of the choices she has made. The story was entertaining and fast reading. I was saddened when it came to an end. I wish the final chapter would have been longer. I wanted to relax with Ms. Milhone as the three subplots were brought to a conclusion. In all, I think the book was definitely one of Sue Grafton's best.

Laurice
Euphoria by Lily King

3
I felt like it was a slow read.

Jan
The Revenant by Michael Punke

5
To my surprise I really liked this book. I read it because it has been so popular and then there was the movie, so I was expecting violence, revenge, I don't know what. It is beautifully written; Punke is a wordsmith. He makes the prairie, the wolves, the pain of the lead character so real. There really was a Hugh Glass and there are many tales about what happened to him. Punke, in the afterward, makes clear what is known to be true and what he made up. Glass was left for dead by two men and he survived in a wild area where fur traders were fighting with Native American tribes who were fighting with the U.S. Army. What a mess. Who to trust? Except Glass was alone, injured, no gun or knife and he survived. A great read!

Betty
Because of Tuscany: A Tale of Friendship and Love by Karen Ross

4
I loved this book even though it has many of the elements I usually dislike. The writing was beautiful and simple, yet flawed at the same time. The writing is very simplistic, yet the descriptions are delightful. There are many places in the story when the writing is rushed in order to get us to the next point in the story. It is a fairy tale-type story, yet I didn’t mind. I found myself rooting for all the characters, although I could clearly predict what was going to happen. This is a story of love, secrets, ghosts, the beauty of Italy, and the strength of friends. So just as I loved the characters with all their faults, so too did I love the book with all its flaws.

Vikki Cabral
A Mother's Reckoning: Living in the Aftermath of Tragedy by Sue Klebold

4
Sociopaths are very good at hiding in plain site. I feel sorry for Sue and hope she finds peace.

Elizabeth
In the Clearing by Robert Dugoni

3
IN THE CLEARING is a continuation of Robert Dugoni's Tracy Crosswhite series. She's a detective with the Seattle PD, and in this book she is involved in two cases, each a mystery to be solved. The unraveling of mysteries is interesting, so that kept me reading to the end. Unfortunately for me, though, the stories were too easy to put down. And while they did contain suspense, it wasn't enough to make me anxious to pick the book back up. I liked it, though, just not enough to read it quickly. This disappoints me because I know Dugoni can write a story that is unputdownable. Probably he should give Crosswhite a rest and write a standalone or get back to David Sloane's great courtroom drama.

Sally
A Trick of the Light by Louise Penny

5
Another outstanding book by Louise Penny in her stellar series of mysteries involving Three Pines and Chief Inspector Gamache.

Dorothy Flood
Rogue Lawyer by John Grisham

2
I enjoyed this book, but I felt as if too many cases were left up in the air.

LINDA
Agaist the Wall by Alexx Andria

5
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review, and although I've not read this author before I am glad I gave her a chance as her book was overwhelming! Detective Jameson Reed had been undercover to bust a drug ring for so long that the lines of justice were bending until he was busted for being a cop and arresting a bit dope dealer when he wanted the king pin! Jameson had never worked well with others, but his partner knew him almost better than himself, so when Ivy Cullen came to bail her no-good brother out of jail, he took one look at her and knew he had to have her, even if he had to commit career suicide. Ivy Cullen had tried to get her older brother to quit running with lowlifes and doing drugs.

Pauline
Jump Cut by Libby Fischer Hellmann

4
If you are from Chicago or know the city, you will enjoy JUMP CUT by an author who knows and loves her city. You will meet video producer Ellie Foreman who makes videos and documentaries. Her latest client is defense contractor Delcroft who hired her to make a series of videos. She shows them to the executives but VP Hollander becomes agitated by what she sees and fires Elle saying the videos were no good. Ellie digs into why this happened. She studies the videos noting just when Hollander reacted to what she saw and sees a suspicious man. Ellie finds out who he is and plans on meeting him, but he is killed by subway train. Nearby she finds his flash drive. Decryption leads to a web of espionage, kidnapping and murder.

Ellen
The Improbability of Love by Hannah Rothschild

5
Nazi stolen art, gourmet cooking and a love story. Set in London in the present day, a little known painting brings unlikely people together and spans 300 years of history. The story is told from many perspectives including that of the painting. A great first novel and page-turner.

Lori
Whiskey Beach by Nora Roberts

5
Loved this book! So many layers of friendship, trust, letting go and starting over. Love being able to visualize characters early on in a story and the setting. Most stories tend to drag along near the end, but Nora does not disappoint. This one became quite interesting. I did not feel there was any down time in this one. Loved all the people in this story.

Jud
No Colder Place by S. J. Rozan

4
Thoroughly enjoyable book. This is my first exposure to S. J. Rozan and I will be going back to read the first three entries in this series.

Lynn
The Things We Keep by Sally Hepworth

3
A most interesting premise: A 38-year-old woman with early-onset Alzheimer's falls in love with a young man likewise afflicted, a resident of her adult care home. The characters were well-written, but alternating narrators and chronology were hard to follow.

Shannon
Before He Finds Her by Michael Kardos

3
This author is new to me, and the description of the book was what made me pick it up. This story is told in perspectives and parts, similar to Jodi Picoult's books, which I like. It does jump back and forth in time so you do have to pay attention. What I didn't necessarily like about this book is how the main character, a 17-year-old girl, who's been in hiding the majority of her life, and very sheltered, goes and does things that even a 20-something would have problems doing. I just didn't find it to be realistic. Despite that, it did keep my interest to the very end, and I would be willing to try another book by this author.

Anita
Along the Infinite Sea by Beatriz Williams

5
This was a very good book - about two women who meet when one of them sells the other a car, and they discover the history they share - going back to 1937. It was very interesting and well written.

Tessa B C
Everything I Never Told You by Celeste Ng

4
“Lydia is dead. But they don’t know this yet.” So begins this exquisite novel about a Chinese American family living in 1970s small-town Ohio. Ng explores the nuances of family dynamics – how a parent’s own disappointments may translate into dreams for a child’s future, how a child may feel burdened by those dreams, how siblings may compete for or retreat from parental attention.

Jud
Monster by A. Lee Martinez

3
An enjoyable book, akin to the novels of Carl Hiassen, with a supernatural twist.

LINDA
Blood Moon on the Rise by Lauren Smith

5
I was given this book in exchange for an honest review, and this author was unknown to me but I like her style! Tamara Gilbert sat in a rundown bar that was filled with stale cigarette smoke, stale cheap beer, and cheaper perfume. When she killed her target she needed to wash her clothes twice to get the stink out. She sensed Vampires, humans, and her werewolf target entering. This was apart of the job she hated but she took a vow with The Brotherhood of the Blood Moon to protect humanity, and this werewolf was the leader of his clan and enjoyed torturing humans before he ripped them to shreds. For years Nicholas Rubin had loved Tamara, but as her Tracker it was against the Order's rules so he tucked his feelings down deep.

Jane
On This Foundation by Lynn Austin

5
This entire series was so well written and researched. I enjoyed reading about Nehemiah and his determination to rebuild the walls in Jerusalem. I would definitely recommend this book and the series to other readers of inspirational fiction.

Donna
Everyone Brave is Forgiven by Chris Cleave

4
I was about 125 pages into this book before it became interesting to me. I've read many books about WWII, but this is the first that takes place in London. This is a love story filled with young love, separation, destruction, bravery and fear during the time of war. I got a sense of being in London during the Blitz. I also felt the weariness and life-changing experience of being on the battlefield. Enlightening book.

LINDA
Death on Holiday by B. V. Lawson

4
I was given this book with no commitment to review it. DEATH ON HOLIDAY is a collection of short stories filled with witty retorts that will tickle readers as you love the heroes that get out of trouble one way or another.

Alison
Miller's Valley by Anna Quindlen

4
It was comfortable and easy to slip into the lives of the Miller family and become easily acquainted with them. Quindlen's writing is simple and straight forward, reflecting the personality of the narrator, Mimi, and the way she was raised. There wasn't a culminating scene like I expected there would be. Quindlen makes just enough assumptions of her readers that the story moves along at a steady pace and keeps the reader invested with the character-driven content. Good solid read.

Mary Ann
Izzy's Fire: Finding Humanity in the Holocaust by Nancy Wright Beasley

5
This is an account of a Lithuanian family who survived Hitler's invasion of their country. The father, Izzy, made decisions that enabled this family to survive. They spent months in a tunnel under a potato field. Always, Izzy's wife, Edna, his fire, encouraged the family in their arduous journey. This is a story, also, of the courage of a Catholic family that sheltered them for years. If discovered, all would have faced death. After the war, they found their way to Richmond, VA. This family was instrumental in the founding of the Holocaust Museum in Richmond. This account includes the reunion with the son of the family who sheltered them.

Burma
Lily and the Octopus by Steven Rowley

5
I absolutely loved this book. It was very unique and well written. This is the kind of book you want to tell everyone to read!

OSWALDO
Hawke by Ted Bell

5
HAWKE is definitely the best book I have read so far this year. This book is full of surprises. You will find that it is impossible to put this book down. I had to force myself to stop reading this amazing tale at night, if I wanted to make it to work in the morning. Reading HAWKE will make you feel like you are in an adventure novel. HAWKE is the kind of character somebody really should put in a movie: he is smart, resourceful, attractive, everything we want in an action hero. I wish I would have discovered this book series sooner. Truly a book series I will read and remember forever. I definitely will be sharing this story with all my friends and family, and my book club members as well. This book is truly an exciting read.

Judith
Evicted by Matthew Desmond

5
This Harvard professor lives with and follows the string of evictions of several residents of Milwaukee. Readers sadly learn what living in poverty is like and how people get to that point.

Deb
Far From True by Linwood Barclay

4
FAR FROM TRUE is a page-turner with a plot that gradually reveals the ever-increasing complexities of life in the small town of Promise Falls where nothing and no one are as they seem. An engaging book with some laugh-out-loud passages as well as those that make you think, "Wow, I didn't see that coming!"

Susan
What Stands in a Storm by Kim Cross

5
Kim Cross shows an impressive mastery of figurative language in this nonfiction book which reads almost as a thriller but is mostly a wonderful affirmation of the importance of relationships and community when the worst disasters occur. I don't often read nonfiction, and this was a book I was immediately pulled into and reluctant to finish.

Margo
The Secret Keeper by Kate Morton

5
Suspence to the very end. We loved the book. Takes place during WWII.

Wendy
A Walk Across the Sun by Corban Addison

5
Two sisters survive the Boxing Day tsunami in southern India only to be kidnapped and sold to a brothel owner. As virgins they command a high price. Soon one has been deflowered and the other has been spirited away to Europe. In the USA a lawyer in a big firm has been, wrongly, accused of being responsible for losing a big case. He is offered a year's sabbatical and decides to work with an NGO (non-government organization) in Mumbai. He becomes involved with the case of the two sisters. As he tries to rescue them he discovers the depth and breadth of human trafficking. It is fiction but very much based on reality.

Mary Sue
A New Kind of Monster by Timothy Appleby

5
A non-fiction book is rarely this much of a page-turner. What a gift this author has! It is the true story of a Canadian Air Force officer who is young, handsome, intelligent and trusted. This same officer is capable of the most murderous acts, which nearly went undiscovered. In addition, the book has a small section of photos. At some date in the near future, I intend to re-read this excellent account.

Sandra
Everything I Never Told You by Celeste Ng

4
This is a heartbreaking book to read if you are a parent. When we impose our expectations upon our children in the vain hope that they will have the lives we missed out on, tragic outcomes are possible.

Karen
Journey to Munich by Jacqueline Winspear

5
The adventures of Maisie Dobbs continue in this book. The story takes place in the years leading up to World War II. After traveling around the world trying to deal with her grief over the loss of her husband and unborn child, Maisie returns to England. She is still unsettled, and trying to decide what to do next. In London she is approached by two men from the British Secret Service who want her help in retrieving a British Citizen who is being held in a German Prison. She agrees, and they train her to deal with various situations and send her to Munich. The task is much more complicated than she was led to believe. She must adapt to the situation and solve mysteries so she can bring the man home. It is an exciting story.

Shelley
My Name is Lucy Barton by Elizabeth Strout

3
Dark, sparse, unsentimental.

Trude Vandine
A Murder in Time by Julie McElwain

5
I loved this book!! A modern day FBI agent, Kendra Donovan is accidentally sent back to 1815 England. No one seems to know what to do with her, and there is a serial killer on the loose and in a world where women are still have no real rights and are often looked at as fluff she has to convince the men around her to accept her help to stop his killing. The history of 19th century forensics was fascinating and I enjoyed seeing Kendra coping in less than ideal conditions. There is even a touch of romance. The ending left me thinking that maybe this is the first of a series...I hope so.

Julie
All the Stars in the Heavens by Adriana Trigiani

3
A fictional account of the affair between Clark Gable and Loretta Young, with other (fictional) characters thrown in - an interesting account of Hollywood in the 1930s.

Judy
The Girl From Home by Adam Mitzner

5
This is the fourth book by this author. It's easy reading with some twists and turns. Although Mr. Mitzner has many fans, when I do send him a note he responds and it makes me feel special.

Judy
Glory Over Everything by Kathleen Grissom

5
What a wonderful way to continue a story of the South. I read this book in 24 hours, and a friend couldn't put it down and read till 3:30 a.m. Grissom picks you up and takes you into the world her characters populate, and you just can't help but cheer for and cry with them.

Kathleen
Luckiest Girl Alive by Jessica Knoll

3
I read LUCKIEST GIRL ALIVE because I enjoyed GONE GIRL and the blurb about this book touted it as being the next GONE GIRL. In that respect I was disappointed; this book was nothing like GONE GIRL. The book deals with a gang rape and it is hard not to feel some empathy for the protagonist, even though she comes off as real bitch. Events towards the end are a surprise and reminiscent of other books.

Kathleen
I Almost Forgot About You by Terry McMillan

3
I wanted to like this book more than I actually did. I've read and enjoyed several of Terry McMillan's other books, and while the writing style in I ALMOST FORGOT ABOUT YOU is similar to them, I think the storyline in this novel is much weaker. I had a hard time connecting with Georgia and I thought the other characters were forced and exaggerated. For me this was an "okay" book and somewhat forgettable.

Nancy
Natchez Burning by Greg Iles

4
Attorney Penn returns to Natchez to help his father, who has been accused of murdering an African American nurse he worked with in the 1960s. This book takes us back to the time of the KKK and corruption in Mississippi. e are reading it this month for our book group. I enjoyed this book very much; it brings back a sad time in our history. If I had a complaint, it would be that it was too long.

Sharon
The Killing in the Cafe by Simon Brett

2
Rather slow start, but reflecting the setting of a small English village where life goes at a less than rapid pace. Interesting twist at the conclusion and I did not suspect the murderer.

Barbara
A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara

4
This book is about four men who meet in college and follows them through adulthood - although three of the men take backstage to Jude, a very intelligent but broken man who suffered a childhood of severe physical, sexual, and psychological abuse. This story is not for the feint of heart; it is a story that will beat you up emotionally and will leave you actually feeling exhausted. But, it is also a story of love, compassion, kindness and devotion - all given to Jude by the people in his adult life. Although the subject matter in this book is extremely difficult, the writing is superb. When you have to put it down to "take a break", it definitely calls you back. Jude has remained with me, even after closing the back cover.

Marilyn
Winter Solstice by Rosamunde Pilcher

5
A lovely story of family and friendship. THE SHELL SEEKERS was the first Pilcher book I read and that was years ago. I remember the depth of feeling as the characters were well developed. WINTER SOLSTICE is another good read!

Brenda
The Secret Language of Sisters by Luanne Rice

4
I picked up this book from the library because it was written by one of my favorite authors. Ms. Rice did a good job telling the reader a dark side of driving and texting. I really felt like the characters were "real" people and the author wrote some true emotions into the story. The story did make me wish for a minute or two that I had a sister, but I really love the brother I have. I enjoyed the artistic and scientific under tones in the story. I enjoyed how the story ended.

Val
The Do-Right by Lisa Sandlin

5
I am very stingy with my 5-star ratings, so I have to really like a book. THE DO RIGHT tells the story of a woman just released from prison after 14 years. She killed one of her rapists. Set in the '70s, she must find a place to live, and a job to meet conditions of her parole. Not an easy set of circumstances to be in or meet. Luck and bravado lands her a job with a fledgling private investigator. Between the duo, the find out more than they should have about run-of-the-mill cases in a town where oil means big money. Everything about the book was spot on: the tone, the characters, the time. It all just flowed like the Mississippi to the gulf. I look forward to great things from this author.

Kelli
The Widow by Fiona Barton

4
This book has compelling characters and twists and turns that keep you wondering what actually happened. You will be kept guessing if the widow deserves your empathy or your dislike. This was an engaging read and thoroughly enjoyable.

Mary
The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto by Mitch Albom

5
A good story of the power of talent to change lives.

Elaine
Career of Evil by Robert Galbraith

5
This is the third book written by J.K. Rowling in the Cormoran Srike and Robin Ellacott series. This was the first one I really enjoyed. It was more of a thriller than a who-done-it. Subject matter was very shocking: pedophilia, body integrity, and identity disorder.

Becky
The Weekenders by Mary Kay Andrews

4
The plot is tissue-paper thin. You have met all of the characters before. BUT – the plot hangs together, the characters are likeable, there is no “bad language,” the sex isn’t raunchy, it is well written and there is sufficient humor and pathos to make an enjoyable read. For the genre, this author knows how to entertain and does it well. Altogether this is a fun book that doesn’t insult the intelligence of readers who will read and then look forward to MKA”s next book.

Betty
The Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper by Phaedra Patrick

3
Gentle read about a widower who finds a charm bracelet of unknown origin in his late wife's things. He sets out to find what the charms mean. This book has the same feel as A MAN CALLED OVE or THE STORIED LIFE OF A. J. FIKRY.

Nicolette
A Cure for Madness by Jodi McIsaac

3
This book was a twisty one. In the beginning I felt drawn in and connected to the main character and her story. However, as it developed it took a turn that left me behind. I was invested and curious enough that I needed to know how the story concluded, but was left with a satisfied feeling of completion rather than disappointment that the time in the story with those characters was over.

Nicolette
No One Knows by J. T. Ellison

5
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. There have been a lot of novels recently that seem to want to play off being the next GONE GIRL. Hearing the comparison makes me hesitant, but I thought I'd give NO ONE KNOWS a shot anyway. I'm glad I did! It took me a good portion of the book to figure out how it was all going to fall into place for the conclusion so the suspense was just enough to keep me from feeling like I knew what was going to happen the whole time. Balancing the suspense was the love story portion of the book. This piece gave me the connection to the main character that keeps a reader turning pages. A solid novel from J. T. Ellison.

Holly
Frozen Tides by Morgan Rhodes

5
A perfect ending to an amazing series!

Elizabeth
Fool Me Once by Harlan Coben

5
I love a book that grabs your attention from the beginning and doesn't let go until the end. This one did just that. The ending fooled me! Loved it!

Kay
The Long Way Home by Louise Penny

4
Another thriller about our beloved Gamache!

Ck
The Swans of Fifth Avenue by Melanie Benjamin

5
I lived in NYC when Truman Capote gave the famous Black & White Ball. I wasn't sure why every one talked about it. He was so ridiculous on TV. However, the author tied together forgotten snippets from the society of the "beautiful people." Kenneth's was THE hair salon. After all, Jackie Kennedy went there. The Swans had personal shoppers at Bergdorf Goodman. The Swans spent weekends on Long Island and their chauffeurs returned them to penthouses in the city. Ms. Benjamin is just as great a storyteller as Truman. She may have rewritten some of his stories, but he told other peoples' stories also. Swans is witty, sad, interesting, colorful, and great fun to read.

Sonia
All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr

4
I do like historical fiction, especially this time in history during WWII. The author writes from several different points of view as well as going back and forwards in time. It is handled beautifully and balanced my interest between each of the characters. I do recommend it.

LINDA
Imperfect Penelope by Sami Lee

5
I was given this ARC in exchange for an honest review, and although the author was unknown to me at the time I'm glad I accepted. Left at the altar when Rochelle objected to her marrying him, Greg Danvers was floored when she raced down the aisle leaving him in deep shame. He was a contract attorney in Sydney and his doctor warned him to get his blood pressure down or she'd put him on medication. Greg thought himself a healthy man and decided to visit his friend Summer in a small town outside of Sydney for natural therapy, but he never expected to see his brother's gold-digging ex-girlfriend. Penelope Irving had a knack for picking the wrong man and when Bryan Danvers stole her money to get her car fixed then lied that it was she.

LINDA
Bound by Legend by A. D. Trosper

5
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review and this author never disappointed me with her snarky and witty story! Nineteen-year-old Morgan Brooks was said to be a "channel" where she can see demons that invaded Denver and send them back to the underworld where they belong, but they never stay for long. She already experienced more death than she could handle, especially after her dark angel gets killed while he helped her. She knows that not staying in one place too long is the only way to survive and living on the cold streets, and never getting close to another being is best for her as the demons will kill anything and anyone that gets too close. Lucien, a dark angel has been sent to keep Morgan safe.

Jud
In the Heart of the Sea by Nathaniel Philbrick

5
This book was outstanding, to say the least. The movie was good but the literary tale of the Essex goes far beyond what the movie told. In reality, quite a bit happened to the crew after their encounter with the whale, which sunk their shift and forced them into the whale boats. The rest of their adventure is filled with hardship and difficult decisions. I strongly recommend this book, especially to those who have seen the movie and want to know "the rest of the story."

Norm
419 by Will Fergusion

4
Excellent story.

Raylene
The Cherry Harvest by Lucy Sanna

2
I wanted to read about the German prisoners of war who worked in the cherry orchards of Door County, WI, in 1945 because I've lived in WI all my life and never heard of a such a thing. Writer Lucy Sanna was intrigued with this bit of WWII history, but she really created a very different fictional world around it. The POWs did spraying, hoeing, and cultivating with no emotional turmoil in the rural communities of WI. They were delighted to be here, really didn't need guards, and many created lifelong friendships. The author certainly created her own fiction, too much conflict, and developed too many sub-plots that weren't expanded.

Charlene
On the Move by Oliver Sacks

5
I've had several of his books and saw the movie "Awakenings", where Robin Williams plays Sacks, and always wondered who this guy really is. This memoir, published shortly before his death, describes a lovable, compassionate eccentric, always on the move, who made huge contributions to the fields of neurology and psychology. But his passion was writing; he was first and foremost a writer. For all of us!

Regina
Damage by Josephine Hart

5
I am stingy with rating stars as a rule but this book is extraordinary. In less than 200 pages it packs an emotional wallop. A middle-aged doctor with a beautiful wife and grown son and daughter has a mid-life fling with a woman - who happens to be his son's girlfriend. In a drama that is almost Shakespearian in nature, the chaos unfolds. Published in 1991, this book is beautifully written. Don't miss it.

Mary
Murder at the Breakers by Alyssa Maxwell

5
Emma is a fictional character living in the world of late 1890s to early 1900s Newport royalty and wealth. Although descended from The Commodore, Cornelius Vanderbilt, she is from a poorer branch of the family. She is a spunky young lady, and becomes a sleuth after a death at The Breakers. I like spunky ladies from the turn of the century, and having been to Newport, RI to tour the two Vanderbilt "summer cottages" and enjoyed that, this novel was right up my alley. Ms. Maxwell has a wonderful website with information on the real Vanderbilts of Newport. This is the first in a series of fictional murders in Newport at this time, and I'll be reading the next one very soon!

Debbie
In Wilderness by Diane Thomas

3
My feelings remain mixed concerning this book. The story follows Katherine Reid as she leaves the high stress life for a move to a virtual wilderness in her quest to end her troubled life. Katherine has been told that the doctors cannot find the root of her illnesses and that she has less than a year to live, so she sells everything and buys a rustic cabin with no conveniences. As Katherine prepares to die or kill herself when the pain becomes too great, a young man, Danny, complicates the saga. Lust and dependence invade the wilderness, and the story takes many turns before a disappointing ending. Why??? Thomas presents a strong-willed and intelligent Katherine in the beginning, but a naïve and ignorant Katherine after meeting Danny.

Lynn Whittymore
Animals in Translation: Using the Mysteries of Autism to Decode Animal Behavior by Temple Grandin and Catherine Johnson

3
Would NEVER have read this book, but it's a book club choice. I slogged through it by forcing myself to read a chapter a day before going on to my fun stuff. I actually did find it fascinating, but way, way too much detail. Do not have a clue how tomorrow night's meeting will go...or who might even show up!

Judy O.
Yellow Crocus by Laila Ibrahim

5
When a little white girl of a slave-owning family in Virginia is born in he 1830s, she is given to a black slave, Mattie, to act as the wet nurse for her. Lisbeth and Mattie form an extremely close bond for the next decade. One day Mattie and her husband and child disappear and head to the free state of Ohio. Lisbeth is bereft and vows to find Mattie again. This is just a wonderful story of life in those times, and more importantly a story of life in the south when people had slaves.

Stavros
NYPD Red 4 by James Patterson and Marshall Karp

5
Imagine my surprise when I found out that I am named as a character in this book -- a tough sergeant, Stavros Kellepouris, who is either hated or respected or both by his fellow officers. That alone makes it a 5 star book for me. I guess I should be glad that I was not the cold-blooded killer being sought out by the detectives. As usual, I am a big fan of Marshall Karp and his style of humor.

Chris
Most Wanted by Lisa Scottoline

3
A good read but not one of my favorites. It kept me guessing but I found the ending a bit hard to believe. Worth reading if you want a book to pass the time away.

Patricia
After Her by Joyce Maynard

5
I absolutely loved this book! I think the fact that I have three sisters helped contribute to that, but I think someone without any siblings would still love this book. It was so well written and the storyline was so great. It wavered between heartfelt and suspenseful at times. It's like the old cliche - I laughed and I cried! I'm definitely going to be checking out Maynard's other books (this was my first time reading her).

Lynn W
Angry Housewives Eating Bon Bons by Lorna Landvik

3
An oldie, but a goody. It pulls every emotional string.

Sandy
The House Girl by Tara Conklin

5
Absolutely loved this book! Goes back and forth from slave era to current day and they are both tied together. Wouldn't it be interesting to find out that your ancestors owned slaves or that your great-great-great-great-great- grandmother was a slave? I spent the whole day yesterday reading.

Laurice McClung
The First Kiss by Grace Burrowes

4
I enjoyed this book! It was interesting how the author used musical terms to describe the feelings of certain characters.

Laurice McClung
The Girl's Guide to (Man) Hunting by Jessica Clare

3
This book was good but a little bit predictable.

Deborah Ader
The Charm Bracelet by Viola Shipman

4
A wonderful story about family and following your dreams. I was surprised to find the author is actually a man.

Dorothy Flood
Fool Me Once by Harlan Coben

5
A little slow in starting but after the first 35 pages I couldn't put it down. It was a great read with lots of twists and turns and a real surprise ending.

Lucia
Chicago by Brian Doyle

5
An absorbing, wonderful read. Loved the descriptions of different parts of the city, the interactions between the delightful characters. Mr. Doyle is truly a wordsmith extraordinaire.

Diane
Elizabeth Is Missing by Emma Healey

5
This is a very interesting book about a woman with dementia (Maud) who is concerned her friend is missing. It goes back and forth to Maud's growing up when her sister went missing. Things from the present remind her of the past. The blending of the storylines of the plot is seamless and her issues with her dementia are very realistic.

S
Peaceful Warrior: The Graphic Novel by Dan Millman

1
Not a format I usually read but it was my book club's choice this month. I found the story confusing and pointless.

Esther
Glory Over Everything by Kathleen Grissom

3
I enjoyed this book overall, but near the end things sort of fell apart. There were several too convenient coincidences that made the story start to seem unrealistic. The ending felt a bit rushed and mashed together with the main character's frustrating indecision over what to do next. That said, if you were a fan of the first book THE KITCHEN HOUSE, I still recommend reading this one. I do love a good follow-up story and Jamie Pyke makes for an intriguing character.

Virginia
All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr

4
The author has an interesting writing style. I kept pulling for Marie-Laure and Werner to be successful and safe.

Margie
Terror in Taffeta by Marla Cooper

4
This is Marla Cooper's first mystery novel, although she has written travel guides in the past. Her cozy sleuth is a wedding planner, which makes for a light-hearted mystery with twists and turns you didn't see coming. It's a cut above most cozies, and I look forward to more in the series.

Linda
A Small Indescretion by Jan Ellison

4
Lively discussion, provoked a lot of emotion and talk about our different perspectives.

Karen
The Good Girl by Mary Kubica

4
Great read with a unexpected twist at the end!

Myrna
The House at Tyneford by Natasha Solomons

4
During WWII, a young Jewish girl from a wealthy and educated family in Vienna is sent to live in England, where she will work in service at an English manor house. Not knowing when or even whether she will see her parents and sister again, Elise Landau's life is forever changed in the family's efforts to evade the oncoming Nazis.

Susan
Me Before You by Jojo Moyes

5
A young woman without much direction takes a job as caretaker to a young man who is a quadriplegic. The story unfolds as each of them begin to care deeply for the other...and have hopes for each other. Although it is a sad story, it is very thought-provoking and uplifting.

Geri Mitchell
The Storied Life of A. J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin

4
It's a story about a bookseller and his love for books.

Phyllis
Everything I Never Told You by Celeste Ng

5
Wow! What an emotional novel! Very seldom do I have to stop reading because of the emotions evoked. This story is about a dysfunctional Chinese American family with two girls and one boy who never quite live up to their parents' expectations and cannot express their needs and emotions. Highly recommended.

Lynn W
Off the Grid ( A Joe Pickett Novel) by C. J. Box

3
Joe and Nate fight a domestic terror cell in Wyoming's Red Desert. Plotting and pacing are always first-rate, but it's Joe's family and his friendship with Romanowski that keeps me coming back to this series.

Betty
The Winemakers: A Novel of Wine and Secrets by Jan Moran

5
This book is about family – the struggles, the secrets, the salvation. Caterina Rosetta is hiding a huge secret from her mother. But her mother has her own secrets. Dreams dashed, futures uncertain. Caterina has grown up on the family-owned vineyard in Napa, California. But now she is at odds with her mother Ava over the daughter Caterina has kept secret. The unexpected notice that she has inherited a vineyard in Tuscany could not have come at a better time. Shortly after her arrival in Italy the family secrets begin to be revealed to her. She learns that Ava kept serious information from her in the belief that she was protecting her daughter. But now Caterina has to deal with the consequences resulting from this “protection”.

Jan
The Sins of the Fathers by Lawrence Block

5
This is my first Matthew Scudder mystery but it will not be my last. In this first of a series, a woman was hacked to death and her roommate was charged with the murder. Scudder is hired by the murdered woman's father to find out more about her because she has been estranged from the family for several years. Scudder is a former policeman and knows people and who to talk to about certain matters. It is an old-style novel, but the wonder for me was the development of the protagonist, Scudder. He drinks too much, is a poor father to his two sons who live with their mother, but he seeks justice. He works to get under the usual layers of detritus, trash, and idealistic images that family and friends give out about their loved ones,

Muriel
Our Souls at Night by Kent Haruf

4
This was a beautiful story of love and caring. I liked that there seemed to be hope at the end that Addie and Louis's relationship would continue at some level in spite of her son's disapproval. Louis and Addie provided love and support for Jamie, Addie's grandson, and one hopes that support will continue also.

Jan
A No Good Itch by S. D. Skye

1
Save your money and time. This poorly written and unedited "mystery" will have you guessing. Pronouns are very confusing, i.e., using "her or she" when referring to a man. I never understood the game, the mystery, someone was in jail wrongly but we never know why. It is impossible to sort the good guys from the bad, and I do not think this is deliberate. There is no plot that I could discover.

Barbara
People of the Book by Geraldine Brooks

5
Geraldine Brooks again writes a great book. This is multi-faceted. This starts out today with a rare books expert. The book would be interesting if it was only about her and her family, but that's just the outline of story. The real story is about the book she is investigating and the people of its 500-year-old history. The only problem is, you want to know what happens to these people after these little visions of them. You rarely get to see, but that's the true worth of a great author!

Theresa Hawryszkow
Midwives by Chris Bohjalian

3
An in-depth look at both mother-daughter relationships and the art of midwives. I enjoyed the book and it gave me a bit more insight into something I have never really given much deep thought to. I love books that make you think about how you feel about a controversial subject, and this book did just that.

Laurice
The Mermaids Singing by Lisa Carey

5
Loved it! Sad and tender and thought-provoking.

Linda
Be Frank With Me by Julia Claiborne Johnson

5
A heartwarming story of a mom with issues and a quirky, but debonair son with whom it is frankly difficult not to fall in love with. Much to love about all of the characters, and the language draws you in - my favorite read of the year!

Heather
The Illegal by Lawrence Hill

3
Not nearly as good as THE BOOK OF NEGROES. I didn't get why he went into the future, year 2018? I appreciate that the author is trying to address serious and current issues, but it lacks any subtlety or real insight into these complex subjects.

Phoebe
The Husband's Secret by Liane Moriarty

5
I read this book in one weekend because it was one of those "hard to put down novels!" The intrigue created by the "Do Not Open" note carried me through the narrative in wanting to know the who and why. Any book which keeps me from activities of daily living is a winner!

Mary
The Swans of Fifth Avenue by Melanie Benjamin

4
This was a look into a far different world than the one I have lived in. The lives of the New York socialites were not as enviable as one might think seeing their glamorous photos in the newspapers. Truman Capote comes across as a sad failure despite his literary talent, and one feels sorry for Babe Paley as she struggles to maintain the "beautiful Babe" facade. I'm glad women can now be admired for their intelligence and hard work instead of just their beauty.

Kathryn Andrews
The Madwoman Upstairs by Catherine Lowell

5
Very literary read, as has references and passages from various Bronte books. I wish I'd read them more recently than 50 years ago. This is a psychological study, also, of the Brontes and the characters in the book. Well done for a first novel!

Francisca E B
Monday, Monday by Elizabeth Crook

4
In August, 1966 Charles Whitman shot and killed or wounded dozens of students, faculty and first-responders from the clock tower on the University of Texas campus in Austin. This novel explores the effects of that event on the lives of three fictitious characters. What a wonderfully complex character-driven story. As the story follows them through the decades, we come to know their strengths, weaknesses, dreams, and fears.

Joann
A Sudden Light by Garth Stein

5
A family confronts long-buried secrets as it struggles for forgiveness and redemption in this breathtaking story set against the majestic beauty of the Pacific Northwest. In 1980, fourteen-year-old Trevor Riddell gets his first glimpse of Riddell House. Built from the spoils of a massive timber fortune, the legendary family mansion is constructed of giant whole trees and is set on a huge estate overlooking Seattle’s Puget Sound. Trevor’s bankrupt parents have begun a trial separation, and his father, Jones Riddell, has brought Trevor to Riddell House with a goal: to join forces with his sister, Serena, dispatch the ailing and elderly Grandpa Samuel to a nursing home, sell off the house and property for development, divide up the estate.

Sharon
The Nature of the Beast by Louise Penney

5
The saga of Inspector Gamache continues, even in retirement, as he supports his proteges Isabelle LaCoste and Jean-Guy Beauvoir. It seems that the apparently placid and serene village of Three Pines continues to breed and hide a lot of pain, agony and deep, dark secrets and in this latest book the secrets have global consequences. Louise Penney does a masterful job of keeping the reader intrigued without giving away all the clues at once. And as always, there are two or three interconnected stories playing themselves out. I would recommend that anyone begin at the beginning, that is, the first book in the series, to familiarize themselves with the intrepid Inspector and his supporting cast.

Loretta
Orphan X by Gregg Hurwitz

5
I had the opportunity to read by both sight and ear with this book. To my mind this is the very best way to read a book but unfortunately it does not happen often enough for me. Scott Brick adds substance and strength to the characters and that enhances the listening experience.

Bonnie
The Railwayman's Wife by Ashley Hay

4
Rarely do I close a book and say to myself, "This was a beautiful book", but this novel fills the bill. It's beautifully written and utterly captivating.

Bonnie
My Antonia by Willa Cather

5
This is a novel I read many years ago and loved. Some books are worth re-reading and this is one of them. Such a beautiful story with well-drawn characters that you grow to care about. And the setting is almost itself a character in the book. I'll probably re-read it again in a few years, it's that good.

Bonnie
Miller's Valley by Anna Quindlen

4
Terrific novel with beautiful writing. I was lucky enough to be in the audience this weekend when Quindlen was interviewed about this book and her life by her good friend, author Kelly Corrigan. Magic.

Bonnie
The Nazi Officer's Wife by Edith Hahn Beer and Susan Dworkin

4
Memoir written by the author who survived the Holocaust by marrying a Nazi officer who kept her secret. Amazing story and amazing life.

Ruth
Four Seasons in Rome by Anthony Doerr

5
Very prolific writer -- one of the best!

Becky
Murder in Cottage #6 by Dianne Harman

2
Two stars is probably generous. The conversations were awkward and unrealistic as was the entire story. The book was composed of very contrived situations that would never happen in real life. There is potential for a short story with a good editor and a little research. If you are stuck somewhere and this is your option, this is passable.

Trezeline
Plague Land by S. D. Sykes

5
Very good mystery. I enjoyed this book. It had an unexpected ending.

LINDA
The Cinderella Murder by Mary Higgins Clark and Alafair Burke

5
I requested this book from the library when I realized that ALL DRESSED IN WHITE was the sequel, but missed reading the first book that started it all! Take a twenty-year-old murder of a college student that lost one shoe and her murder was dubbed "The Cinderella Murder", but there were no witnesses and a whole lot of suspects and the case went cold. When television producer Laurie Moran agreed to take on Susan Dempsey's cold case to air on her reality show, Under Suspicion, she couldn't foresee that she'd stirred up a hornet's nest and more people would be murdered and she would be fighting for her life!

Esther
Just Like Us by Helen Thorpe

5
If you've ever wondered what it would be like to be a young girl coming of age as an undocumented immigrant, this book will show you. The author delves into the stories of four young girls, all whose families emigrated from Mexico, and each had at least one parent who had crossed the border without papers. One girl was born a U.S. citizen, one became legal resident, and two never got documents. They faced legal challenges, family and relationship issues, excelled in high school, college, and balanced friendships - some with those who opposed undocumented immigrants and did not know their status. This book offers insight into what it would be like to grow up undocumented. One doesn't have to agree or oppose the issue to read this book.

Kathryn
In a Dark, Dark Wood by Ruth Ware

3
This is a great book for the GONE GIRL crowd. Nora, who hasn't seen or talked to her old friend Clare for 10 years, goes on a girl's weekend in the woods. It just sounds like a bad idea. It was a page-turner; I found myself voraciously reading to see what happens next. While it kept me interested, I didn't give more stars because it didn't wow me with the story, the writing or the characters. I think I would have like to know more about the main characters. If you like the genre, you'll like the book.

Gerriann
The Violinist of Venice by Alyssa Palombo

5
A wonderful story of Vivaldi and his student, his muse or his talented daughter. Her first novel and I couldn't put it down. I played The Four Seasons while I read the book.

LINDA
Half Wolf by Aimee Easterling

5
I was given this ARC in exchange for an honest review. Readers who are tempted rest assured that this Underground Series is a MUST READ! Fen Young is a half shifter where her wolf is more mouse-like and sleeps most of the time. She was kicked out of her pack when Hunter had her kicked out in order for her Alpha to let a young pup stay with him. Now she was head of her own pack of two troubled twins, their sixteen-year-old cousin, and her Beta who gave up his pack to go with them. Just barely legal age, she stormed to a wolf bar where she knew the pack princess was stirring up trouble. It didn't surprise her that the teen was belting out a song as she swayed atop a table with her big boobs tantalizing a room full of male shifters.

Marianne
Under the Influence by Joyce Maynard

5
The author clearly paints a picture with words of each character. The plot draws the reader in, and you will want to caution the main character about the choices she is making. Beautifully developed, piece by piece, the author makes you care about the main character (Helen) and her son Ollie. Highly recommend this intriguing book, and found it hard to put down.

Lori
Vinegar Girl by Anne Tyler

4
I've read and liked many of Anne Tyler's books, so I was pleased to have the opportunity to read an advance copy of VINEGAR GIRL. VINEGAR GIRL is a light, pleasant and fast read. Knowing that it was supposed to be a reinterpretation of TAMING OF THE SHREW, it was inevitable that the book would be somewhat predictable. Nevertheless, the book kept me entertained. I think of Anne Tyler's books being more substantial and less breezy, so I think it is not at all a representative of her work. This book would make a nice summer read, but I would not recommend it for book discussion groups.

Rebecca
The Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper by Phaedra Patrick

4
I won an advance copy of this book from Bookreporter.com. When I first started reading the book I thought, oh no, it sounds like A MAN CALLED OVE. But as I continued reading it, all comparisons were gone. As the story starts, Arthur Pepper is coming up to the one year anniversary of the death of his wife. He decides he can finally get into their room and clear out her things. While cleaning, he happens upon a hidden piece of jewelry, a charm bracelet, something he has never seen before. Each of the charms leads Arthur on an adventure and he learns little bits about his wife and about himself along the way. It was a sweet story.

Aletheia
Ashley Bell by Dean Koontz

3
I absolutely loved how this book set up. Bibi Blair, smart young author, learns she has some rare, essentially incurable disease. She nonetheless recovers quickly and miraculously. After, it is revealed that Bibi's life was saved in order for her to save another's -- Ashley Bell's. The problem is, Bibi doesn't know any Ashley Bell. Follows is an intense cat-and-mouse-type of psychological thriller involving some supernatural elements. I loved the puzzle, the pace, and many of the characters. However, although I loved the set-up, I felt it fell a little flat in the end. I still recommend it - I just recommend it with the caveat that it has a somewhat weak ending.

Thomas
Dying To Be Beautiful Mysteries: Without A Head by M. Glenda Rosen

5
A very good book. I liked thee book a lot.

FRAN
Saving Sophie by Ronald H. Balson

5
A wonderful read! Not a holocaust book. Rather, a modern-day novel of intrigue, with much history of the struggles in the West Bank and Hebron. Both Israeli and Palestinian, along with American issues, too. I was privileged to hear the author speak at a Florida library. His knowledge of history and current events is remarkable.

Carol
Memory House by Linda Goodnight

4
Love is the theme. Love of a mother for her son, love of a father for a son. Takes us back to the Civil War with a great plot in the present with an equally heartrending happening. My book club loved it!

Marcia
Most Wanted by Lisa Scottoline

3
Our club meet today and we discussed MOST WANTED. It was a slow start but in the final analysis we all agreed we enjoyed the book. It was especially interesting because this is such a timely issue and most of us are not familiar with thinking about these issues - sperm donors, infertility, serial killers and the need to know who our sperm donor is and his mental health status. We thought that the wife was really driven to find the truth about their donor. Also, her determination to keep the baby at all costs. So many issues in families are drawn upon here -- the acceptance of wife's parents to the process of sperm donation for a grandchild and the husband, Marcus, not willing to share issues.

Jeanette
A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman

4
Don't let the slow beginning put you off. The characters in the story are all unique and their interactions build to a humorous and heartwarming ending. Ove is now a widower but has been somewhat of an isolationist most of his life. With his wife gone, he needs something to get him out of his doldrums. Enjoy finding out how Ove's life turns around.

Suzy
Blueprints by Barbara Delinsky

3
I was disappointed in this book. It seemed too long and cliche. Minor issues were made too big, and major life changing events were presented too casually.

Michael
Project Moses by Robert B. Lowe

4
A decent mystery thriller. It never quite achieved the title of "page-turner" for me, but I wasn't bored either. Interesting subject matter (no spoilers) and some great moments. The only gripe I can think of is sometimes the dialogue wasn't very realistic. At times I would think, "People don't actually talk like this." Other than that, I really enjoyed it.

Elizabeth Vollbach
Afterwards by Rosamund Lupton

5
I just added another book to my list of favorites, the second book by Rosamund Lupton included in that list. But I still haven't decided whether the word "afterwards" refers to after the loss of consciousness or after death. There is a fire at a private elementary school. Whose fault is it and is it arson? Two of the people hurt in the fire watch the investigation while their bodies are unconscious. One of those people describes it for her husband. That puts simply a most involved story with twists and turns that will keep your attention and have you guessing throughout. As soon as you are pretty sure, Lupton changes your mind and makes you sure of something else. Plus this is the best type of mystery/thriller--literary.

Donna
Destiny of the Republic by Candice Millard

4
It was enlightening to learn that the assassin's bullet wasn't the cause of death of President James Garfield, but the introduction of germs into his body by his doctors causing infection. President Garfield suffered an agonizing death without complaint. Learning of Alexander Graham Bell's accomplishments was a nice plus.

Lucy
Lilac Girls by Martha Hall Kelly

5
I just read this book on e-Book format and would love to win the hard copy of it because it is one of the best books I have read this year. I love anything with a WII setting. This is a truly inspiring book about the courage of women who lived through those trying times.

Sally
When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi

5
A beautifully written book. A young Stanford neurosurgeon is diagnosed with disseminated lung cancer. He writes of living, and dying, with integrity and grace. Highly recommended.

Sandy
Broken Promise by Linwood Barclay

5
This is the first book in a new trilogy by Linwood Barclay. It's a great start to this new series and I loved every page! Can't wait for #2!!

Kathie
Orphan X by Gregg Hurwitz

5
Can't wait for the next one! Love Evan Smoak.

Betty
Treason's Harbor by Patrick O'Brian

5
I am constantly amazed at the depth of the characters in this series. The historical detail is remarkable.

Chris Lantz
ORR by Bobby Orr

5
Loved the book; it is a story we all know but don't. A very candid look at his life without the BS found in some biographies. Kudos to Mr. Orr.

Claudia
The Revenant by Michael Punke

5
I read this for a book club, so I was not sure what to expect. It was really good. Although it is fiction, it is based on fact. I would place it in the adventure genre. The story is based on the bear attack on Hugh Glass, who was left for dead but survived and then went to hunt down the two men who deserted him and stole his weapons. It is very well written with good descriptions of the terrain and sometimes gruesome accounts of Indian attacks. I enjoy reading books that have to do with our nation's history, and this one focuses not only on Hugh Glass but also the fur trapping business of the early 1800s.

Jud
The Devil's Star by Jo Nesbo

4
Quite an engaging plot, definitely as good as any American thriller author. I'm developing a taste for Norwegian and Swedish crime, and Nesbo is a big reason why.

Jan Zahrly
A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman

5
Curmudgeon. That is the only way to describe Ove. He has lived in the development since it was started --- he knows all the rules because he wrote them. And now there are a lot of young techno, foreigners, people moving in who ignore the rules. Ove has his hands full inspecting the property each morning and protecting the stray cat from the nutty fluff-head's little yelper that hides inside her purse. Then Ove watches one morning when a crazy fool (Ove knows he is crazy because he has ignored the sign that no cars are allowed in the residential area) backs a trailer into Ove's mailbox. A short pregnant woman is standing outside the car screaming instructions to the deaf driver. Ove is so tired of fighting for the rules. He charges out!