This contest period's winners were Jackie S., Kelly R. and Melissa A., who each received a copy of A HOUSE WITHOUT WINDOWS by Nadia Hashimi and STING by Sandra Brown.
Chris
Freenet by Steve Stanton
Really interesting and entertaining Sci-Fi read!
Irene Grigas
The Muralist by B. A. Shapiro
I just got back from our book club after discussing THE MURALIST. This was not an easy book to get into, but once characters were identified and the premise of the book was clear the book became interesting historical information. The story divides itself between 1940 and 2015. The work of artists during the 40s and involving the political climate at the time. Present-day issues were among the same as present time regarding Jewish refuges and the purpose and the importance of art. A mystery evolves with one of the artists and the outcome of it all. I would call it interesting but not a book that you couldn't put down. Also, the narrator of the audiobook was not good. I had to go back and get the book.
Becky
The Last Days of Night by Graham Moore
I love this book. I know NOTHING about electricity...but I understand this book. And I am laughing. That is the essence of a great writer: to help me understand difficult concepts and to entertain me while my brain is engaged. This book has it all: humor in large part, terror at times, mystery, legal shenanigans, hate, love, ethics (or a lack thereof), subterfuge, science that is understandable and intrigue. Oh yes, and great writing. The writing is clear, but still offers illumination to the characters that inhabit the book. Those characters are drawn with great detail and great sympathy both for the character and for truth.
Diane
Go Set a Watchman by Harper Lee
Intriguing and thought-provoking.
Marcia
The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry by Rachel Joyce
This is a very touching and thought provoking story of Harold's six hundred mile walk to see his old friend, Queenie Hennessy, who is dying of cancer. As he journeys, he faces the mistakes and regrets of his past. He also finds himself opening up to people he never would have talked to before. And, in truth, they confide their secrets to him. His wife, Maureen, also faces challenges and new discoveries as she faces life alone during Harold's absence. I would highly recommend this book to others.
Susan
Miss Julia Speaks Her Mind by Ann B. Ross
I enjoyed MISS JULIA SPEAKS HER MIND. It is a good summer read.
Ellen
A Great Reckoning by Louise Penny
Louise Penny's books are equal parts mystery and observation of the fragility of community. In A GREAT RECKONING, Three Pines is both a refuge and a laboratory to observe and protect a group cadets studying to join the Surete. Gamache is looking to leave his legacy by taking over the corrupt and abusive Academy. It is a wonderful book. Be certain to read Penny's acknowledgement at the end. It will tear at your heart..
Lynn
Vermilion Drift (Cork O'Connor #10) by William Kent Krueger
Excellent! Each book in this series is better than the last.
Donna
In Satan's Shadow by John Anthony Miller
Berlin, 1943. Michael York, a British spy, is assigned to discover who exposed his predecessor causing his death. Amanda, a beloved violinist of a string quartet, is married to a high ranking member of the Third Reich and was possibly going to supply valuable information to the deceased agent. Max, Michael's contact, sends him to find out which member of the quartet was to supply the information, to retrieve this information and who outed the previous spy.
Robin
Fatal Pursuit by Martin Walker
The Bruno Chief of Police series is a favorite of mine because they showcase the small town of St. Denis, France. Bruno is a renaissance man who solves complicated crimes while courting a variety of women, riding his horse and caring for his lovable dog. Not only that but he is a connoisseur of fine wines and has a tumbledown garden which gives him beautiful fresh vegetables. From his garden and the town market he whips up incredible meals at the very last minute. I enjoy the details of the meals he prepares with such ease and the fact that he is working on the latest local crime which is seemingly unsolvable. He assembles all of the facts, takes care of a couple of the simpler problems of the village and then solves the crime with ease!
Wendy
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child by J.K. Rowling
disappointing
Mary Lou
A Girl's Guide to Moving On by Debbie Macomber
I finished Debbie Macomber's A GIRL'S GUIDE TO MOVING ON. Two women, a mother-in-law and daughter-in-law, divorce their philandering husbands and embark on a discovery of who they are. The ladies take apartments across the hall from each other and begin the process of cutting the ties from the two men, father and son, who did not appreciate them and who cheated on them.The men these two ladies end up with are completely different from their spouses, and they lack a little plausibility, but it’s a sweet story with a strong message of forgiveness. A good summer read.
Kathy
Boy's Life by Robert McCammon
Our August book club selection, and a huge reason why I love our group. A new (to me, this book was written in 1991) author and a book I'd never have read; these are gifts. I highly recommend this book, not for its mystery, but for its look into the adventures of twelve-year-olds, and a trip back in time for those of us of a certain age.
Carroll
Silver Linings by Debbie Macomber
I continue to enjoy the story of Jo Marie and her B&B. Looking forward to reading Macomber's last installment of this series.
Shirley
After the Crash by Michel Bussi
This novel will hold you spellbound all through it with its well written story of a baby who is found after the crash of an airliner. Two families claim it may be theirs so there are twists and turns
Susan
The Language of Sisters by Cathy Lamb
I loved this book! I loved everything about it --- the characters, the story line, the love and the wonderful sounding Russian foods that were discussed. Cathy Lamb has done it again and written a book that with characters who won't soon be forgotten. This book has a little bit of everything --- mystery (what was the secret that no one was supposed to discuss?), drama (will the trial end without Valerie being hurt or killed?), love (will Toni learn to love again?), food ( what will be special be named at Svetlana's Kitchen tonight?). Most important of all it shows the love and connection between sisters and the entire Kozlovsky clan. The book made me laugh (I loved Svetlana and the food she cooked) and it made me cry. Great book!
Susan
The Legacy of Us: A Novel by Kristin Contino
THE LEGACY OF US is a multigenerational novel about four women and their connection to each other through a cameo necklace. Two of the women --- Liz and Gabriella --- are the main characters and their stories are told in the most detail. I enjoyed this novel and the multigenerational stories. Even though the women lived vastly different lives, they were all strong-willed women who were trying to find love and happiness in their lives. I also enjoyed the parts of the story that were set in Italy. The author did a fantastic job of describing the clothes and the Italian scenery. A fun read that I highly recommend.
Susan
The Light of Paris by Eleanor Brown
THE LIGHT OF PARIS was the first book that I've read by Eleanor Brown. I enjoyed it so much that I just ordered her first book (THE WEIRD SISTERS) from Amazon. This novel is told from two viewpoints in alternating chapters --- Madeleine in 1999 and her grandmother Margie in 1919. Both women had so much in common because they were both being forced by their parents and society to conform to the norms of their times and to become someone different than they wanted to be. One of my favorite parts of the novel were the descriptions of Paris during Margie's time there. I love Paris and I love reading books about that wonderful city. The author didn't disappoint me at all with the Paris that she wrote about.
Susan
The City Baker's Guide to Country Living by Louise Miller
Olivia (Livy) is a pastry chef and works in an elegant club in Boston. When she accidentally sets the club on fire with her baked Alaska, she does what she's done many times in the past --- she runs away. This time she runs to her best friend in Guthrie, Vermont, a small town where everyone knows their neighbor's business. Her friend convinces her to stay and to take a job at Maple Hill Inn. Once she starts the job, lots of fantastic characters become part of her life and for the first time in her life she begins to feel settled and happy. Will she remain feeling part of the community or will she run when the next crisis happens?
The food descriptions are great and the author even gives us an apple pie recipe at the end
Susan
Now and Then Friends: A Hartley-by-the-Sea Novel by Kate Hewitt
Claire Westland and Rachel Campbell were best friends in school until Claire started to hang out with the popular crowd in junior high. Claire left town as soon as possible to live in Spain and Rachel stayed to take care of her mother and sisters and to take over the family's housecleaning business. When Claire returns to town, Rachel is filled with resentment. She is sure that Claire has led an exotic life while she was stuck in the same place and she sees no reason to rekindle their friendship. But Claire's life has a lot of issues and they both really need a friend but can they get past their resentment of each other and become friends again? This is a fun summer read and I highly recommend it.
Susan
Rainy Day Sisters: A Hartley-by-the-Sea Novel by Kate Hewitt
Juliet and Lucy are half-sisters who have never really gotten to know each other. They are eleven years apart and Lucy and their mom moved to Boston when Lucy was only six, and Juliet stayed in England. To say that they aren't close at the beginning of the novel is an understatement. Even though they don't really know each other, Juliet invites Lucy to her B&B in Hartley-by-the-Sea when her life in Boston falls apart. Juliet is very unfriendly and resentful of the life that Lucy lived with their mother and is very unfriendly to Lucy. So now we have two sisters who dislike and resent each other but they still need each other. They both need family and need to learn to be each other's family despite their earlier feelings.
Susan
Time Is a River by Mary Alice Monroe
As with all of Mary Alice's books, her love of nature and the environment shines throughout this book. The river and the mountains are as much a part of the story as the characters. One additional note, Casting for Recovery is a real group that is involved with breast cancer survivors and I am very impressed with their work.
This is a great book - not only do you get a wonderful story but you get to mentally spend time in the beautiful NC mountains.
Shirley
After the Crash by Michel Bussi
This book has a few twists and turns that will keep one reading into the night. A baby found alive after a plane crash causes two families to claim her. Well-written book .
Susan
Forever Beach: A Novel by Shelley Noble
This is a fantastic book about love, family and friendship. This isn't a light read but it's a book that will make you think a lot about what it takes to make a family --- more than blood, family is the people that you love and that you want in your life. Fantastic book!
Betty
Lilac Girls by Martha Hall Kelly
What an amazing story! And I did not realize that the book was based on actual events. Only when I read the Author’s Notes at the back of the book did I learn this. What courage and determination these women had! The story begins in 1939 and follows three young ladies to 1959.
Jud
Cross Justice by James Patterson
Cross returns to his hometown to help his cousin, who is accused of a brutal rape and murder.
Jud
Island 731 by Jeremy Robinson
The crew of a research vessel stumbles upon an uncharted island that hides a horrifying secret dating back to WWII.
Linda
Before the Fall by Noah Hawley
A tightly written mystery about a group of people who climb a private jet that crashes minutes after taking off. On board, the family of a network executive, a couple in which the husband is involved in a money laundering scheme, the crew and an artist. Only two survive. What or who caused the crash? What is in the background of each passenger that could have influenced the progress of the plane. The narration was top rate. I had to be pried away from the book but was disappointed with the ending. One of the best parts of the book involved a newscaster attempting to discover the truth behind the relationship of the planes occupants --- especially the adult survivor. A man and a woman who like each other must be having an affair, right?
Linda
Bobby Kennedy: The Making of a Liberal Icon by Larry Tye
A well researched exposing a Bobby Kennedy most have not been aware of. The book accounts for changes in Kennedy's political outlook, stepping away from his brother, Jack's support to become his own man. Bobby Kennedy died the day that I graduated from high school. He's been of interest to me for over 50 years. I was glad this book was balanced explaining Kennedy's flaws and his strengths.
Linda
Rose Boy by Michael-Scott Earle and Daniel Kamarudin
I obtained this ARC from the author in return for an honest review, and although I never heard of this author before I'm glad I took the chance. He had loved her for so long and tended to the roses below her window reverentially. He was just the son of the gardener, knew they could never have a future as he had nothing to offer her, but he loved her and always would. She called him Rose Boy and soon everyone called him that. Then, Raltenor the Conquer invaded the castle with his War Dogs and killed her. Before the Dogs arrived his father threw him down a sewage pipe that lead from the castle sacrificing his life so that his son may live. Twenty-four years later, Rose Boy became a Master in The Guild of the Mask.
KC
You'll Miss Me When I'm Gone by Kevin O'Brien
Bullying, teens, revenge and murder filled the pages of this suspenseful thriller. I enjoyed the who done it aspect of the story. I did find myself bored, at times, with some of the behavior of the characters and was unhappy that the author did not allow the "school" to consider the crimes that were committed serious enough which in turn seemed unbelievable.
Bonnie
There Goes My Social Life: From Clueless to Conservative by Stacey Dash
Actress Stacey Dash's memoir and argument for why African-Americans like her should vote Republican after being let down by Democrats for decades. She makes a very compelling argument.
Shirley
Playing With Fire by Tess Gerritsen
Excellent book. Narrators are great.
Barbara
Bittersweet by Colleen McCullough
A great beginning but too much talk of Australian politics got in the way --- in my view.
Suzy
His Majesty's Hope by Susan Elia MacNeal
This is the third book in the Maggie Hope series. A mathematician by choice, a spy by...Maggie has gotten more involved in Great Britain's WWII war efforts. Filled with intrigue, old friends, a few surprises, a twist or two, this book is a strong sequel to previous efforts. I never spoil! Our Maggie is an intrepid spirit. Intelligent, curious, spontaneous, methodical, a novice in the spy game but eager to help her fellow Brits, Maggie has gone on an amazing adventure. Will she survive Nazi Germany and come home to her friends? There is a lot of factual history in this series and it's quite obvious the author has done a great deal of research. It's a nice mix of fact and fiction.
Marcia
The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins
I just finished the book. It made me think of the movie, "Sliding Doors" with Gwyneth Paltrow. which was on TV the day I started Hawkins book. The train travel must be an English commonality. I have read many books in my 78 years and always have a book to read and have been a member of book clubs for years for the challenge. This book was not as much of an interest as I expected. I thought Tom was the culprit from mid book. He was so central in each person's life and when someone leaves another whom he is married to marry so quickly another his stability or instability is evident. I guess it is very true all of us have demons in our lives or past and need to deal with them but there seemed to be so many innocent affected.
Linda
Drop: Catching Her Fall Book 1 by Erika Masten
I obtained this ARC in exchange for an honest review. DROP is a BDSM story about Sabrina Cole who made the wrong choices in her sexual life. Since Anthony had dumped her no matter how she let him control her, debase her, and let his friends have turns with her, she felt unloved and unwanted. She was curious about the darker side and only watched others until she agreed to go out with a tall dark and handsome Devin Rennert. Once in his expensive car, she almost asked him to turn around. and take her back to her college dorm room. Bad boy billionaire and CEO of Lauder Transportation took one look at the little wounded bird that was Sabrina and signaled to his friends that she was his next submissive if he had his way and he always did!
Mary Lou
Blood Test by Jonathan Kellerman
This is an early Alex Delaware novel, published in 1986. The first two thirds of the book were pretty good, well-written and engaging. Dr. Delaware is a psychologist in LA, who often works in conjunction with LAPD to help solve crimes, many involving children. Unfortunately, the last third was overdramatic and out of date, in particular regarding its treatment of women. There were even people smoking, for heaven's sake, perish the thought. However, lots of good botanical and horticultural material, as much of the action was set in eastern San Diego county, home of much of SoCal's agricultural industry. I read this one on my Kindle, and I love being able to look up words that I don't recognize. I still prefer regular books though.
Sandra
All The Missing Girls by Megan Miranda
I have never read Miranda's work before. So I went into this story with no expectations. At first it may seem odd b/c this author started it with a twist. That being that the end of the novel is the beginning and counting down to day one. At first, it was a bit strange but it didn't effect the flow of the story. The focus is on a group of high school kids and their queen bee goes missing one night. There are plenty of twists and too many lies piling up once the main character Nic returns back into her hometown after ten years. And another girl goes missing. It is hard to feel any sympathy towards any one character, even Nic. Many come off as unlikable. But it is still worth a read.
Dian
The Lost Girls by Heather Young
Kept me reading to find out what happened that one summer to the little girl. Good first book.
Laura
Sons and Daughters of Ease and Plenty by Ramona Ausubel
This book is about a couple and their family set in the 1960s and 1970s. It bounces back and forth between their present,1976 and their past, from 1966. The author would give some of the story of a character but not quite all and it left me wanting to know more. The main characters Fern and Edgar are spoiled and immature despite their thinking that they do not want or care for all the money they no longer have.
Donna
The Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper by Phaedra Patrick
Arthur has been a widower for a year after 40 years of marriage. He has become closed off from the world and every day is exactly the same regimented routine. He discovers a charm bracelet in his wife's belongings that he never saw before. He needs to find out what the charms mean and so his journey and new life begins. This is a lovely story that causes one to take a moment and reevaluate their own lives. This book reminded me of A Man Called Ove and other similar books.
Paula
Mrs. Sinclair's Suitcase by Louise Walters
Who can resist a bookshop story of today that includes an old suitcase of books connected to WW II? Roberta has worked many years at a bookshop in England. She not only loves new books, but old books and the things she finds in them. Roberta's father brings to the shop an old WWII era suitcase full of old books that had belonged to his mother, Roberta's grandmother. Roberta finds an old letter that raises questions and hints of long kept secrets. Roberta decides to find out the truth without upsetting family members, and in the end, what she knew to be true is not. The author creates a parallel present day narrative of Roberta, and a war era narrative of Dorothy Sinclair, owner of the suitcase, their decisions and consequences.
Bev
Behind Closed Doors by B.A. Paris
Suspense...psychological thriller....intense...well-written debut. Grace is a beautiful, talented, loving women with unparalleled domestic and artistic skill. Jack is the perfect husband, brilliant lawyer (defender of abused women), handsome. "Sometimes, the perfect marriage is the perfect lie." (Publishers note). Gaslighting: a reference to the 1944 movie Gaslight, in which an abusive husband secretly and repeatedly dims and brightens the gaslights in the house while accusing his wife of imagining the flickering. (dictionary.com)
3.5 ★
Phyllis
The Confectioner's Tale by Laura Madeleine
THE CONFECTIONER'S TALE takes the reader to Paris and the Patisserie Clermont in 1910 depicting both the grittiness of Paris and art of exquisite confectionery made at the patisserie. It is about the forbidden romance of Gui, a young laborer, and Jeanne, whose father owns the Patisserie Clermont, and betrayal by a friend. In 1988, a young graduate student finds a picture belonging to her grandfather which leads to a mystery of his early life and biggest regret. The narrative deftly flows between the periods keeping the reader involved with the characters in the dual stories. The descriptions of Paris and the characters are well written making this debut book as deliciously entertaining as its cover is lovely. ARC from Goodreads,
Linda
Ruthless: Scientology, My Son David Miscavige, and Me by Ron Miscavige with Dan Koon
The author of the book is the father of the present head of the Church of Scientology. Mr. Miscavige became disenchanted with both his son and the church and escaped from the churches scrutiny resulting in a reunion with another son, who had fallen away from the church years before, but was ostracized by his two daughters who remain members of the church. The book has more to do with David Miscavige and his iron-fisted rule of the church rather than the church itself, although it is difficult to separate the two. Backs up much of what I have read before.
Helen
The Queen of the South by Arturo Perez-Reverte
Different and interesting. Kept me turning pages.
Linda
At the Edge of Summer by Jessica Brockmole
I won this print through a contest and agreed to give it an honest review. Luc Crept is familiar with his mother bringing home wounded creatures to their chateau in the French countryside and healing comes easily with the wildflowers, but his mom's latest project is not a creature but a Scottish fifteen year old girl who grieved for her deceased father and a mother that left them both. Weeks later Clare's grandfather arrived to take her home and that starts the pair writing letters back and forth and becoming good friends, but Clare is determined to find her mother and find out why she left.
Carol R.
First Women: The Grace and Power of America's Modern First Ladies by Kate Andersen Brower
You cry for Jackie, Betty Ford and Pat Nixon. All these women give up SO MUCH for their husbands. I have a new perspective of Michelle Obama and I dislike Nancy Reagan and Hillary even more now.
Cathey
Circling the Sun by Paula McLain
This was a good book, but not as good as WEST WITH THE NIGHT by Beryl Markham. They focused on different parts of her life and CIRCLING THE SUN seemed to hinge a lot on the Finch Hatton connection. If you only want to read one, read WEST WITH THE NIGHT. It is much more lyrically written with much more beautiful prose.
Cathey
Lilac Girls by Martha Hall Kelly
I did the audio version, which was very well narrated. It showed a portion of WWII that I was only vaguely familiar with. Three women, each strong in her own way, and each with a different mission. We will be doing this in our book club this year and it will provoke a lot of discussion. Well worth the time.
Laura
Two If by Sea by Jacquelyn Mitchard
A good book for book talk groups.
Judy O.
I Let You Go by Clare Mackintosh
A 5-year-old boy in Bristol, England is hit and killed by an out of control car; and the driver does not stop and render aid. Now the police are looking for the killer. We then meet Jenna Gray, a young woman who is running from something, and she ends up in a remote village in Wales. This story is so multi-layered that it is hard to tell any more without giving away the whole plot. I guess you would call it a police procedural, but it was way more than that. The plot twist in the middle of the book is shocking and sends it in a new direction. Enough said. Enjoy.
Sandy
The Swans of Fifth Avenue by Melanie Benjamin
Anyone who is interested in the life of Truman Capote will love this book.
Sandy
Every Fifteen Minutes by Lisa Scottoline
This one will keep you guessing who dunnit all the way! And it won't be who you think.
Trude
The Sixth Idea by P. J. Tracy
I waited 4 years for a new Monkeewrench novel and I wasn't disappointed!!! Monkeewrench is a group of computer geniuses who have teamed up with a pair of Minneapolis cops over the years. This book has a lot going on - murder, government conspiracies, past and present, and Russian agents. All hinging on events from 60 years ago. P. J. Tracy brings everything together in a satisfying manner. I highly recommend this book if you love a great character-driven story. If you haven’t read any of these books I would recommend reading MONKEEWRENCH first so that you can understand why Grace, Harley, Annie and Roadrunner are the way they are.
Frank
The Translation of Love by Lynne Kutsukake
Set during the American occupation period of post-WWII Japan, this novel explores what it takes to survive in a world that is in complete upheaval and transition. Everyone in this book, even the native Japanese, view themselves as outsiders in this strange new world. The level of storytelling is remarkable in this debut novel. Every character in it is crafted with great attention to detail, which means it is easy for the reader to fall into story and not want it to end. This is without a doubt one of the best historical fiction books I've read in a very long time!
Elaine Baxter
The Charmers by Elizabeth Adler
I am 75 years old and have read a multitude of books, but this is one of the worst books ever. It seems to me that the publishing company did not use a proofreader. If they did, then they should be fired. Most of the book made no sense at all. There are scenes that are never finalized. The story seems to have been written by a teenager without thought of finishing what she, the author, is trying to say. I found many inconsistancies in the story and half finished ideas. At the end you do not know if the evil character killed himself or blew up his villa or died on the boat or airplane. Ideas stop before they are made to be understood. All in all, the book I read came from the library. If I had purchased I would have asked for a refund.
Alicia
Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates
This is a book that should not only be required reading for high school students, but required reading for all Americans. Coates gives us a glimpse into what it is like to be a black in America, specifically a black male. The book is written to his young teenage son, but with everything that has been going on in the U.S. if you aren't a person of color there are going to be things you are ignorant about (myself included). This book is incredibly well-written.
Beatrice
Wild Ginger by Anchee Min
Emotional and suspenseful book about the terrible injustices that people in China had to endure during the Cultural Revolution. It centers on a girl named Wild Ginger, who is very strong-willed.
Linda
Amelia Rules! Volume 7: The Meaning of Life... and Other Stuff by Jimmy Gownley
Part of a series but I haven't read any of the others. That made it difficult for me to always keep the characters straight in my mind. Basically it's a story of a group of kids who have trouble relating with others but find each other. Amelia, the main character, feels as everything is broken - her family, friendships, school. In the course of the book she learns how to end up with lemonade.
Susan
Maud's Line by Margaret Verble
Although I was drawn to the setting and the time period, I did not love the book as much as I expected to. Because it was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize I perhaps set my expectations too high.
Jud
The Forgotten by David Baldacci
Excellent book featuring Chief Warrant Officer John Puller. Baldacci has outdone himself with this one.
Phyllis
Flower Net by Lisa See
When I saw and heard Lisa See here in the Detroit area, I was surprised to learn of her mystery series so I found a used copy to read. And yes, she can write mysteries using Chinese characters set here in the U.S.A. and China with so much detail! I highly recommend this for its educational and cultural values. I learned so much about Chinese medicine and justice system. Also, if you are a See fan, you will enjoy her flip side of writing.
Susan
Black-Eyed Susans by Julia Heaberlin
Interesting storyline.
JoAnn
A Spool of Blue Thread by Anne Tyler
A poignant story of family, their relationships to each other, their disappointments and their triumphs. Had good character development.
Lynn W
Hot Dogs and Cocktails: When FDR Met King George VI at Hyde Park on Hudson by Peter Conradi
Conradi is the author of THE KING'S SPEECH, the book (and movie) about George VI being woefully unprepared to become King when his brother abdicated. This little book is about King
George's and Queen Elizabeth's trip to Canada and U.S., the first reigning monarchs of Britain to visit the former colony. One passage stood out: "It (the trip) marked the end of his apprenticeship as a monarch, and gave him self-confidence and assurance...he could stand on his own feet and trust his own judgement." Very good book, I enjoyed it.
Dorothy
A.D. 33 by Ted Dekker
It is the follow up to A.D. 30. The characters are great, but for me it took too long to get to the heart of the story. But, I would still recommend both of these books by Ted Dekker as I think I just get impatient sometimes with the author and want all my answers to questions raised in the story answered now.
Marilyn
The Boston Girl by Anita Diamant
In many ways this book was a "coming-of-age" narrative and featured the Rockport Lodge in Maine, a real getaway for girls in the early 1900s. Grandmother Addie Baum tells her story to her granddaughter from the time of her birth. She tells of her family's escape from the starvation and violence in Russia and their life in a tiny Boston apartment. Addie is heavily criticized by her mother and joins a reading club for Jewish girls in which she is introduced to an entirely new world and an altogether different class of people. The book takes the reader through changes in fashion, child labor laws, women in the workforce, attitudes toward immigration, and much more. The book promoted a rich discussion among book club members.
Marilyn
Missoula by Jon Krakauer
This book was shockingly eye-opening, describing the crime of rape on a college campus. Unlike most crimes, the victim is often under more suspicion than the perpetrator. The book tells the fears and aftermath of the victims, the ways they are treated by law enforcement, attorneys on both the side of prosecution and defense. The book also includes expert descriptions of the ways women may endure the violence, usually fearing for their lives if they resist.
Judy
The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin
Just finished reading this for a second book club, and it was as good the second time through. A totally charming man who comes of age, so to speak, through a series of events that he could not forsee.
Hattie
Fire in My Eyes by Brad Snyder and Tom Sileo
How does a family get used to the idea that their father, son or brother is working far away in a foreign country with explosives? They must worry constantly. This is the job of one American who is written about in FIRE IN MY EYES. I'm writing down his whole job title, or I would never remember it. It is U.S. Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) officer. When I think of dangerous explosives, I am reminded of Princess Diana. One of her concerns was unexploded explosives lying in residential areas, on beaches where children, teens and other people might walk not expecting to meet their death. I also think of a fictional character in THE ENGLISH PATIENT. He did the same kind of dangerous work.
Hattie
Wife of the Gods by Kwei Quartey
I certainly enjoyed reading Kwei Quartey's WIFE OF THE GODS. It's a mystery. The setting is Africa, Accra and surroundings. The main detective or policemen is Dawson. He is searching for who murdered a woman named Gladys Mensha. Gladys' work involved keeping in touch with people who were HIV positive or had AIDS. She also worked to educate the community about the illnesses. From the very beginning, I liked Gladys. I never had a doubt about her good character. So I really wanted to know who had hurt her so brutally.
Tessa B C
The Rope Walk by Carrie Brown
As summer begins, ten-year-old Alice meets two extraordinary people: a bi-racial boy visiting his grandparents for the summer, and a middle-aged artist with AIDS who has come to live with his sister. This coming-of-age novel brought back many fond memories of the summers spent doing “nothing” and “everything." One of the difficulties with choosing a child narrator, however, is that the adult reader will clearly see certain plot elements coming long before the less-experienced child. Still, I thought Brown did a good job of revealing the plot elements, and the changing relationships.
Rosa
The Life of the World to Come by Dan Cluchey
Leo is a law student who falls quickly and madly in love with Fiona, an actress who is soon-to-be-famous. When the relationship ends, he falls hard. Now a lawyer, he becomes involved with an organization that helps death row inmates get another chance in court. His first case is with Michael, a born-again inmate who is soon to be executed but has always maintained his innocence. The writing is fast and smart and witty, and it is chock full of philosophies about life and death. I loved it and wanted more even after I turned the last page. This is an impressive debut and I look forward to more from this author.
Mary
Breaking the Silence by Diane Chamberlain
I really enjoyed this story! The main character, Laura, very early in the novel experiences a number of tragedies. From this, Chamberlain weaves a story of past and present, of lives entwined.
LINDA
Flawless Danger (Book 1) by Rachel Woods
I obtained this ARC from the author and didn't know who I was more angry with! Well, maybe Spencer Edwards! How can a college graduate be so dumb and listen to her thieving sister? Desperate because she'd blown her interview for a legit job, Spenser sat mopping and having a pity party as she sat on a bench in front of Houston's reflecting pool when a gorgeous man sat down next to her without an invitation. The next thing she knew she'd agreed to have dinner and that was the beginning of her downfall. How could she be so stupid not drugging Ben Chang as her sister told her to do. Now Ben had video of her stealing from him and promised if she would do a "favor" for him all would be forgiven...
Danielle
The Distant Marvels by Chantel Acevedo
As Hurricane Flora approaches Cuba in 1963, 82-year-old Maria Sirena Alonso takes shelter with six other women in the governor's mansion. There she tells her story-- as a young girl growing up during Cuba's Third War of Independence. If you're a fan of Isabel Allende or Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, you will love the storytelling and the author's ability to weave the past with real-life historical events. I read this on a five-hour plane flight and couldn't put it down; I became so lost in the story.
shelly
The North Hollywood Detective Club in the Case of the Young Hollywood Art Heist by Mike Mains
Jeffrey Jones and Pablo Reyes are in the same class and live on the same block and are best friends. Together the two of them have solved some crimes and they have just decided to start their own club. They call it The North Hollywood Detective Club. When Mrs. Rodriquez and her daughter Marisol explain that Victor (Marisol's brother and Mrs. Rodriquez's son) is in jail for stealing a painting, they need to find a way to get him out of jail since he is innocent. The problem is they cannot afford a lawyer, so Jeffrey and Pablo decide to offer their services.
Neither of the boys ever expected that the first case they would investigate would be such a serious crime. As the two boys start to look for clues they are finding trouble.
Whitney
Fate Ball by Adam W. Jones
Absolutely loved this book. An author's first book. Kept me engaged throughout, not predictable!
Was bummed when it was over - read it in less than 24 hrs as I couldn't put it down.
Sandy
The Nest by Cynthia D'Aprix Sweeney
A great debut novel from Sweeney! The ending is not at all what I expected. Makes me wonder if there will be a sequel?
Hedwig
A Time for Torment by John Connolly
A new Charlie Parker book that is probably one of the best of the series. It has turned the page and I believe future books are turning towards the battle that has been building in the series with Charlie's daughters playing a larger roll in the fight.
Hedwig
The Devourers by Indra Das
For anyone who misses the old Ann Rice, who always managed to make you love her monsters.
First American printing and very enjoyable.
Mary Lou
Under the Influence by Joyce Maynard
This is a gripping story of an alcoholic mother who loses custody of her young son after a DUI incident. The story develops as mom gets sober and meets a couple who change her life forever. Helen, the mom, has no real clear sense of self, and up to the point she meets the Havilands, Ava and Swift, she drifted. Suddenly she felt valued and cherished by these wonderful people, and their lives become more and more entwined. The story progresses over the next year, with an intense culmination that again changed everything for Helen. Good writing, a few plot points were weak, interesting characters, a couple of messy editing issues, but a substantive read nonetheless. Definitely worth a read.
Thomas
Forgotten Secrets by Robin Perini
I enjoyed reading this book very much.
Thomas
Doubt by C. E. Tobisman
I enjoyed this book very much.
Thomas
The Long Night by Jessica Scott
This was a veer good and enjoyable book to read.
Thomas
A House Divided by Robert Whitlow
I liked this book a lot.
Thomas
A Cry in the Sun by Allie Ituen
This was a good book to read.
Sandra
Good as Gone by Amy Gentry
I read this book after reading numerous reviews that gave it high marks. Well, I may be in the minority, but I didn't understand why. The concept sounded intriguing, but the weight of all these other characters' POV and the twists that were suppose to be wow moments became too confusing, and the plot got dragged down with it. I didn't connect with any of the characters. I wanted to know more about the sister Jane but she was there for all of 5 minutes. The writer teases with ambiguity but as a reader, I only wanted clarity of the story.
Linda
The Graveyard Book Volume 1 by Neil Gaiman and P. Craig Russell
A graphic version of one of Neil Gaiman's popular books. Within two pages, I recalled that I had read the non-graphic version of this book. The illustrations are dark, as is the beginning of the story. An easy read, a good dessert after a day of reading. Now, on to Volume 2 to finish the story.
shirley
The Seed Collectors by Scarlett Thomas
There is nothing "sweet" about THE SEED COLLECTORS, even though she writes beautifully and the botanical theme is intriguing. It is that basic story of the multi-generational English family wildly updated, more painful than twee, shooting off in a lot of odd directions and a little druggie woo-woo.
Bonnie
The Little Old Lady Who Broke All the Rules by Catharina Ingelman-Sundberg
Fun, light read about five senior citizens living in a retirement home who decide to start a life of crime so they can be sent to prison where life is better. Much fun ensues. Translated from the Swedish.
Charries
Behind Closed Doors by B. A. Paris
B. A. Paris’s BEHIND CLOSED DOORS is definitely one creepy thriller...even though it isn’t particularly “thrilling.” It’s being compared to GONE GIRL and THE GIRL ON THE TRAIN, but I found it closer to the film “Sleeping with the Enemy” (you know, an abusive controlling husband who keeps a tight rein on his victimized wife). The plot is ridiculously simple – Jack and Grace Angel are seemingly the perfect couple. They’re rich and gorgeous, living in a fabulous mansion, vacationing at luxury resorts, and totally in love with each other. But it’s clear from the first page that something else is going on. Because Jack is a psychopathic monster who is keeping Grace a prisoner in her own home without access to the outside world.
Karen
The Light of Paris by Eleanor Brown
I thought this was a light summer read of a grandmother, mother and daughter. This generational book alternates back and forth in time and looks at life that is based on how one "should" behave in life instead of how one might choose to live. Plus, it is partly set in Paris, so what could be wrong with that!
LINDA
Bound by Duty (Book 1) by Stormy Smith
I obtained this ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review and really loved Amelia's story! Amelia Bradbury grew up without a mother, her father's hatred of her, and half truths. It wasn't until she finally left her father's weirdness for college did she learn the truth of who and what she was! She was the last Elder. An ancient evil queen, Julia, wanted to find her and steal the power she never knew she had! All she wanted was to be a normal teenager that had a boyfriend and not some immortal with powers she didn't know how to control. As she learns to control her powers from another Mage, she has to decide which is more important, the love of a human or obeying her destiny.
Nancy
By Honor Bound by Tom Norris and Mike Thornton with Dick Couch
I won this book and I am so very grateful. This book tells the story of two Navy Seals in Vietnam, both of whom were awarded the Medal of Honor. The story of these two men and the way they conducted themselves in times of extreme danger is truly remarkable.
Betty
Barkskins by Annie Proulx
I learned history through individual stories, and more than I ever wanted to know about the timber industry.
Vicki
Wilde Lake by Laura Lippman
Wonderful on so many level. Three seemingly unrelated murders, fully fleshed-out characters, a wealth of family secrets spanning decades, and thought-provoking observations. What more could you want?
Yvonne
Kick by Paula Byrne
This is the story of Kathleen "Kick" Kennedy, beloved sister of John F. Kennedy, who fell in love with England and married Billy Cavendish, heir to Chatsworth. Sadly, she dies very young in a tragic accident. Very interesting. Talks about all the Kennedys in the book. They came from such a big, close-knit family.
Linda
Her Again: Becoming Meryl Streep by Michael Schulman
Interesting book relates the beginning of Meryl Streep's career to her first Oscar win for "Kramer vs. Kramer." Also includes cameos of fellow classmates such as Sue (subsequently Sigourney) Weaver, Wendy Wasserstein, and Mary Beth Hurt. Nothing monumental here, but still interesting to hear of her progress from Vassar to Yale Drama School to Broadway actress to her TV role in the NBC mini-series "Holocaust" where I first saw her. I've admired her abilities ever since.
Sandra
The Secret Language of Stones by M. J. Rose
Beautifully, magically written, as are the others of hers I have read. Highly recommend this and her last 5 or 6 books before.
Wendy
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child by J. K. Rowling
Disappointing.
Dorothy
First Women by Kate Anderson Brower
Great insight into the First Ladies living in a fish bowl.
Jan
Make Me by Lee Child
Another great Reacher book. Something happens near the end of the book that makes me think the books will shift in the future. No spoiler here. You have to read it yourself. As usual, Reacher brings justice to those who have enough money or brains to avoid punishment for their sins/crimes. You go, Reacher!
Allison
The Pilot's Wife by Anita Shreve
Excellent book.
Marcia
One Summer by David Baldacci
This was a good summer read. Jack is facing death from a terminal illness when his wife is killed in a car accident. He has three children who will soon be orphaned, and a mother-in-law who wants to run the whole show. The story of John's turmoil and grief, and the struggles of his oldest daughter, Mikki, held my attention.
Melissa
The Golem and the Jinni by Helene Wecker
It grabbed me from the very beginning. Ancient religious mysteries and sci-fi combine to create a wonderful read.
Sharon
The Secret Ingredient of Wishes by Susan Bishop Crispell
Somewhat derivative of Sarah Addison Allen in terms of the magic of trees/fruit/pies and wishes. There's an entangled romance, and the issue of mental health--the latter was not addressed as well or completely as I would have wished. Not a bad read, but I hope for a tighter, more focused next novel from this author.
Linda
The Graveyard Book Volume 2 by Neil Gaiman and P. Craig Russell
Part 2 of the graphic representation of Neil Gaiman's THE GRAVEYARD BOOK. Drawn as dark as the story, the ending is definitely bittersweet. It would be interesting to see what happened to Bod after he left the graveyard.
Lisa
My Grandmother Asked Me to Tell You She's Sorry by Fredrik Backman
Had a little bit of trouble getting into it, but the book was so worth the read. Very interesting weaving of fantasy and reality. Charming and touching, not unlike A MAN CALLED OVE.
Kelli
The Forest Laird by Jack Whyte
Jack Whyte is one of my favorite authors and he never disappoints. THE FOREST LAIRD once again brings history to life, and it is an excellent depiction of the life of William Wallace. Read this if you are a history buff or love Scotland.
Dorothy
Back Spin by Harlan Coben
As are all his books, this was excellent. I couldn't put it down. A 16-year-old boy is kidnapped and his parents, both professional golfers, are told not to contact police.
Dorothy
Courting Trouble by Lisa Scottoline
Anne, a lawyer, has moved from California to New York to distance herself from a stalker who is now in jail and had tried to kill. A friend moves into her apartment to take care of her cat while Anna is at the beach. The friend is murdered and everyone thinks it is Anna because she was same height and hair color; her face was destroyed. Anna realizes that it was the stalker who came back to kill her. She and her lawyer friends try to find him without telling anyone that she is alive. Really good.
Susan
Dark Matter by Blake Crouch
Could not put it down.
Lori Bednaz
Age of Consent by Marti Leimbach
Won this. Finished it the evening I received! Stayed up until 2 a.m. on a work night! Couldn't put it down and couldn't stop telling coworkers about this fantastic book. Really enjoyed the alternating chapters of past and present.
susan roberts
Echoes of Family by Barbara Claypole White
"You're never truly lost if someone cares enough to come find you. Lost is waiting to be found."
I have read all of Barbara Claypole White's novels and enjoyed them, but this is the first book that I've read in a long time that I wanted to start reading again as soon as I read the last page. Trust me - it's that fantastic. This is a wonderful story of family and love -- life often isn't about the family that you are born into but the family that you create with those that are most important to you.
Jackie
Night and Day by Iris Johansen
I really enjoy Iris Johansen's characters and writing style. I'm always left looking forward to the next book.
Christine
Ballet Noir by Caroline Miller
I enjoyed every minute reading BALLET NOIR, an intriguing and beautifully written love story by Caroline Miller. It's a most fascinating and suspenseful novel, highlighting Europe's major concert halls, ballet at its best and a touch of the paranormal. The story centers around Tara Bentley, a lovely and gifted prima ballerina who wants little more than to dance. However, someone wants her dead. Buffeted by three suitors, loyal friends and an entire ballet troupe, she struggles to stay alive and solve mysteries of the unknown in this quickly paced and well researched Gothic mystery that is filled to the brim with the unexpected, a multitude of very well developed characters, European architecture, landscapes and scenarios at their best.
Donna
Broken Harbor by Tana French
BROKEN HARBOR holds sad memories for Detective Mike Kennedy. He is a tough cop, but being given a case at Broken Harbor could be his undoing. A father and two young children are found dead and the mother is near death. I thought I had this story figured out, but I was wrong.
Tessa B C
Mrs. Jeffries Takes Stock by Emily Brightwell
2.5 stars. I like this cozy mystery series featuring Mrs. Jeffries and other servants in the Inspector’s Victorian household, who work together to lead their boss to the solution of the mystery. However, I think I’ve read too many recently and the plots are getting formulaic and thin. Still, it’s a fast read, and an occasional cozy never hurt anyone.
Kelly
Sweetbitter by Stephanie Danler
Stephanie Danler’s debut novel, SWEETBITTER, is about a young woman who moves to New York City to make a fresh start. She knows nobody in this big city, has no job lined up and has no place to live. What she does have is the resilience to make a new start at this thing called life and the rest she will figure out as she goes. She finds a job in a popular restaurant as an apprentice server where she gets introduced to a whole new world of sommeliers, cheesemakers, sous chefs, managers, and her place in the business. This book really takes you on a food and wine tasting experience. The whole experience is narrated so descriptively it makes you feel like you are really enjoying the experience yourself!
Nancy
Gray Mountain by John Grisham
This is a story about the coal mines and regulations to protect workers. It is a very interesting and educational book about the coalmine owners not wanting to update their mines. Loved it. Read it for book group; perfect book for that -- a lot of discussion.
LINDA
Stud for Hire by Sabrina York
I obtained this ARC through the author in exchange for an honest review and can't wait to read the rest of the series! Hanna Stevens stepped down the party bus her sister had hired to take them to her bachlorette party but she never expected Zach's sister to invite herself and bring her slutty friends just to keep an eye on her! Neither did she think her sister would book a weekend at a stud ranch! All her life, she was the good and proper girl while her sister flirted and got everything she wanted. She wished she could let loose for once in her life before she married a man who promised to save her mom and dad's home but whom she didn't love. Then she saw him...
Marsha
The Sisters Weiss by Naomi Ragen
I loved this book. It was a fast read. The author depicted the characters well. I felt as if the
characters were right next to me. The story one was very engrossing. There was a lot of surprise.
The Orthodox Jews and their rituals and customs flowed throughout the book. I find myself thinking about the book. I recommend it to everyone.
Gretchen
The Woman In Cabin 10 by Ruth Ware
A employee of a travel magazine gets the chance to go on the maiden sailing of a cruise ship. The first night she hears sounds from the next door cabin which is suppose to be empty. She believes someone fell overboard. This is one that you can't put down.
Gretchen
Behind Closed Doors by B. A. Paris
I loved this book but it isn't for everyone. It can be very upsetting. I gave it to my daughter-in-law and she couldn't finish it. That said, I still believe that we will be seeing and hearing about this story for a long time.
Melanie S.
Left Neglected by Lisa Genova
Very well researched fictional account of a woman who sustains a brain injury in a car accident and is left with left-sided neglect; she is completely unaware of the left side of her body or anything in her left visual field. The description that the author provided of the disability was excellent. Sarah, the main character, was a type-A overachiever who now had to deal with needing help for the simplest of daily tasks, yet her intellect was intact. Would definitely recommend this one.
Jean
The Guilded Hour by Sara Donati
Long but worth it. Only negative is it doesn't "wrap up" stories. Guess there is a sequel in the wings.
Anna Servati
Elizabeth Street by Laurie Fabiano
I enjoyed this book so much, especially because I was born in Italy and emigrated to the U.S. when I was very young. I could relate to the many characters in the book. I especially loved the main character because she was portrayed as a strong-willed, tough women as a young lady and throughout her whole life. My grandmother was like that too. It was a fast read with a great story of an Italian family and some not-so nice people who took advantage of immigrants.
Vonnie
Diabolical (Shaye Archer Series Book 3) by Jana DeLeon
I started reading this series from the first book, MALEVOLENT. Shaye Archer was found in an alley, abused and broken with no memories of who she was or what had happened to her. Shaye is adopted by the social worker assigned to her case and nine years later is opening her own private investigating business. Over the course of the series, Shaye struggles with remembering her past while trying to close the cases she has been hired for through her business. DIABOLICAL reveals the disturbing details of her past and the person responsible. This is an intriguing, fast-paced thriller with shocking reveals. Storyline is dark and disturbing but hard to put down. Strong, compassionate characters throughout the series. Highly recommend.
LINDA
The Prince, a Betrayal, & a Kiss: An Enlighten Series Short Story by Kirstin D. Van Risseghem
I obtained this ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review. Prince Finnegan lives in Winter Fairyland. One day he left Winter's castle and met a girl from Summer. They were sworn enemies, but they fell in love against all odds. They were inseparable and Finn stayed in Summer longer than he should have. He almost lost his conscious and would have been shell of himself if not for Sidelle infusing a small amount of her Summer essence into him. Then they pledged their love to each other, but he left her and couldn't get back once his mother found out about them.
Jan
Prayers for the Living by Alan Cheuse
The author is a book reviewer for NPR and the writing is beautiful. In the book a "good Jewish mother" tells her friend about her son, the famous and beloved rabbi, his wife, his daughter, and his "girlfriend/lover". However, she is just the mother, what does she know? She could be any good Jewish mother telling a friend about her family. The book has delightful writing.
Trezeline
The Accidental Empress by Allison Pataki
This book was a very good and informative read.
Michelle
Alone (The Girl in the Box, Book 1) by Robert J. Crane
The writing is not terrible, but it is certainly lacking for a sci-fi action book that is centered around a teenager. If I wasn't Type A, I would stop here, but since I got the complete set free, and I can't let myself leave it unfinished. I will probably torture myself more to see how the story ends.
Sandy
My Grandmother Asked Me to Tell You She's Sorry by Fredrik Backman
When I first started this book I didn't like it. Oh no, a fairy tale I thought, but I kept reading and pretty soon I liked it very much.
Susan
Flight of the Sparrow: A Novel of Early America by Amy Belding Brown
I absolutely loved this book. I fell in love with the characters and learned so much about this time period.
Michael
Pretty Girls by Karin Slaughter
This book was brutal - very suspenseful and very intense. In all honesty, it took a little too long to get good (but that might just be because it was the book I decided to read after reading a book that I absolutely loved so maybe it is suffering by comparison? I try not to do that), but it certainly does get good after a slow first 1/3 of the book. Dark subject matter but that didn't bother me. Well written and overall very enjoyable.
Marie Ledin
Harry Potter And The Cursed Child -- Parts One and Two by J. K. Rowling, John Tiffany and Jack Thorne
Loved this book. Another great Harry Potter story continuing with the children of the original Harry Potter characters.
Rita
Salt to the Sea by Ruta Sepetys
This is a YA book recommended by my local librarian. It is a fast and very good read about four teenagers from different countries. It is set in war-torn Europe in 1945. They are trying to escape from the advancing Russians and trying to dodge the German. The book was inspired by a great maritime tragedy that was a little known tragedy of World War II. An illuminating and life-affirming tale of heart and hope.
Susan
A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman
Inspirational. A crusty 59-year-old-man wants to kill himself after his wife dies, but life, and meddling neighbors get in the way. Great book for book club discussion!
Pauline
Delilah by Angela Hunt
I am not a biblical scholar and my knowledge of people in the Bible is from stories written for children. I began this book with only knowing that Delilah cut off Samson's hair; thus his strength. Samson was a Nazarite dedicated to helping Israelites flee the oppression of the Philistines. Hunt's version gives Delilah's past and what made her act as she did. She was more than a greedy beauty who wanted wealth. The story is written with some chapters that are by Delilah and some are by Samson. Hunt has done a lot of research for this story. I felt I was there with the people and even learned the entire process of turning flax seed into a finished woven item.
Treh Faraj
Gentle Warrior by Julie Garwood
Julie Garwood has immediately become one of my favorite authors. This novel in particular was so beautifully written with an exciting cast of characters. It's a book I will surely reread in the future. Recommended for anyone with a fondness for Scotland and history.
Sharlene
The Invention of Wings by Sue Monk Kidd
I would really like to give this book 4-1/2 stars but, unfortunately, there's no button for that, and I reserve five stars for books like TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD. Kidd's latest novel, however, is very high on my list. Her character development was excellent and I really wanted to see a good outcome for both Sarah and Handful. This was a book club pick and absolutely everyone enjoyed the book.
Jan
Redemption Road by John Hart
A wonderful Southern thriller. A cop is wrongly convicted of murder and is sent to the prison where the warden is more evil than can be imagined. Meanwhile, a female cop has a connection to him and to children victims. The cop survives and is released, the female cop is too involved with the children and there is always trouble -for the cop, for the children, for the released convict. But murders keep happening, the warden is after the convict who is hiding. This is a roller-coaster with wonderful detail of the south and about the emotions of the many characters. It is a real who-done-it because the suspects keep changing. Plan to stay up all night after you start this book. Fantastic.
Beverlee
H is for Hawk by Helen McDonald
I loved hearing the author read the book. I am a T.H. White fan so was really interesting to learn more about him. Loved the journey the author took - while painful at times - loved that she was able to share with us.
LINDA
Behind the Mask by Linda Joyce
I obtained this ARC from the author in exchange for as honest review and fell in love with Chalise and Chaz! Chalise Boudreau fell for the bad boy on the wrong side of the tracks, and because she came from wealth they had to sneak around. They dated for months, but Chaz left her waiting for him to take her to the prom and broke her heart. Chaz Riboucheaux knew he made a mistake ten years ago when he cut out on Chalise, but now he's back in town to make amends and reclaim her heart. No longer is he the poor kid across the tracks with a drunk for a father. He's now a wealthy business man and a Harvard grad and Chalise is his ticket to respectability in the town that once scorned him. He wanted that but he wanted Charlise's love more.
Debbie
The Widow by Fiona Barton
Great mystery. Loved hearing the story from different points of view.
Debbie
The Invisible Life of Ivan Isaenko by Scott Stambach
Very unusual storyline. A book that stays with you after you read it. Read a galley through Net Galley. If you are looking for something different, this is the book to read.
Michelle
Me Before You by Jojo Moyes
A great read!! I was so blown away by this book...it slowly draws you in and then grabs you hard.
The writing was wonderful. I can't wait to read AFTER YOU!
Rebecca
The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
This is the best of the Kristin Hannah stories I have read. World War II is raging and two French sisters have opposing views of how much to participate. The wonderful ending is a pleasant surprise after we travel through time with one of the women.
Sheldon
The Other Einstein by Marie Benedict
This is a book about a remarkable woman who lived in the shadow of a self-centered, egotistical husband. It’s about a woman who searches for and finally gets her own strength to assert herself, not only as a woman but an educated women more than equal to her husband’s abilities. It is a story as timely today as it was in the 1900s of women who are treated as second class citizens and how they handle the situation. A good read!
Mary
City of the Lost by Kelley Armstrong
I usually don't enjoy romantic fiction, but in this case the thrills and mystery more than made up for the unrealistic romantic pairings.
Sandy
Bodies of Water by T. Greenwood
I think this may be my favorite author now. I loved this book. Kept me reading far into the night. Now I must read the rest of her books.
LINDA
A Dance with Tilly (Book 1) by Daniel Kelley
I obtained this ARC from the author in return for an honest review. Leave it to me to read the second book first, but I had no trouble following the curious Jack Wharton who accidentally saw the professor dancing with a gorgeous woman on the third floor of his home, but the woman was not his wife!
Jean
Keeper's Reach by Carla Neggers
Another exciting novel in the Sharpe and Donovan suspense series. Leaves you waiting for the next one in the series. FBI agents, on-going mystery, romance, art thieves, tangled webs to untangle. Sharpe and Donovan and all members of each family are such interesting people. Another winner.
Betty
Faithful by Alice Hoffman
Alice Hoffman set the bar high with her novel THE DOVEKEEPER. FAITHFUL doesn’t quite make the bar, but still was very good. High school students Shelby and Helene are best friends. Helene is beautiful and very popular, while Shelby is the smart one. But one February night their lives are turned upside down. Helene is left in a coma and Shelby has survivor’s guilt and can’t seem to move on. Shelby is now self-destructive – cutting herself and a suicide attempt ending up in a psychiatric unit. She has stopped caring about anything, beating herself up day and night.
Gil
The Woman in the Photo by Mary Hogan
Lee Parker is an eighteen year old girl currently living in Southern California. She is adopted and when her genetic records become available, there is a photograph of a biological relative who looks exactly like her. Lee traces this picture back to the Johnstown flood in 1889, and a Pittsburgh debutant, Elizabeth Haberlin. This was a compelling story of someone needing to know her roots and the extraordinary measures taken to achieve it.
Thomas
Hard Kill by J. B. Turner
I enjoyed reading this book. It was a very good read.
Hedwig
To the Bright Edge of the World by Eowyn Ivey
I do not usually like books that are gimmicky (this is written in journals and letters written by individual characters) but this works. It skips around chronologically, but once you get the drift the story moves well. I would recommend this highly for any one who likes historical novels.
Anne
Born Survivors: Three Young Mothers and Their Extraordinary Story of Courage, Defiance, and Hope by Wendy Holden
Not just another Holocaust story! This one chronicles three young women who are pregnant when sent to a concentration camp, how they hide their pregnancies and give birth under terrible circumstances. Very moving and inspiring account of the human spirit and determination to survive and bring forth life.
Mary Lou
Down Among the Dead Men by Peter Lovesey
It took me a while to get into this police procedural, set in the English countryside. Detective Peter Diamond reluctantly teams up with the puffed up and egotistical Assistant Chief Constable Georgina Dallymore to investigate Peter’s former colleague, the now suspended Henrietta Mallin, known to her friends as Hen. Into the mix there comes a private girls school, with all the high school girl shenanigans that could be expected to occur, especially when a handsome, twenty-something art teacher is added to the cast of characters. After about page 75 I was hooked, and I may even delve into the extensive list of other detective novels by Peter Lovesey, a very prolific author. Well written and entertaining summer fare.
Deborah Smith
Sweetbitter by Stephanie Danler
Anyone who enjoys reading any type of novel pertaining to the food industry will enjoy this book. A girl moves to New York to make her mark in the world and gets a job at a top NYC restaurant. She has a mentor that takes her under her wing to help her learn and excel in the trade. Late nights of after work parties and how the staff interact is fascinating. A really good read.
Patti
Sweet Tomorrows by Debbie Macomber
SWEET TOMORROWS is the last book in the Rose Harbor Series written by Debbie Macomber.
This books focus on the main characters from Debbie's Rose Harbor series and the guest at the Inn, Emily. This was an excellent book and I personally completed reading the book in a day and a half. I will miss the Rose Harbor Inn Series as I enjoyed reading about all the guests that stayed in the Inn. I would definitely recommend this book.
Patti
A Selfless Act: The Amish Millionaire Series (Book 6) by Wanda and Jean Brunstetter
I really enjoyed reading The Amish Millionaire Series, written by Wanda Brunstetter and her daughter-in-law Jean Brunstetter. This series of books showed how the love of money can come between any family. Any fan of Wanda's will enjoy this book as much as her other great books she has written and also her daughter-in-law, Jean. I read this book in one day, and the others in the series were so good.
Francisca E B
Close Your Eyes, Hold Hands by Chris Bohjalian
3.5 stars. Emily Shepard is a troubled teen. Totally understandable, given that she’s been orphaned by a nuclear plant disaster where both her parents worked. She’s homeless and she’s one of the most reviled people in Vermont, if not all of America. The novel is told as a series of journal entries, and Emily’s recollections are not linear. Often I was irritated with her, but I grew to like her and root for her. She was intelligent, resilient, tried to be responsible, and very vulnerable.
Linda
The Girls by Emma Cline
THE GIRLS by Emma Cline is intriguing in that I wanted to keep reading, but boy is it a dark story! I would describe the story as a teen girl's attraction to a cult-like group. She's a woman now recalling her experience. It is dark, as I said, and made me feel sad inside. The writing is surprisingly poetic. Graphic in some places and contains some content with sex and violence. I am neither recommending or not recommending. If you like to read different things and don't offend easily, you might enjoy it.
Jan
Siracusa by Delia Ephron
SIRACUSA is a gentle Stephen King thriller. It's not as scary, but when the reader finishes and considers just what has happened with the two couples and the young child of one of the couples, you silently thank God and your luck that you do not know anyone in this group. The two couples are on vacation together in Italy and go to Siracusa on the coast. A secret lover of one of the four adults shows up, and the race is on. Who is going to slip up first? At one point it appears the child has been abducted, and the police are called. It is an easy read but chilling at the end! The reader has to pause and be thankful for not knowing these people. A real thriller!
Deborah D Russo
Necessary Lies by Diane Chamberlain
I loved this book. It's all about emotional turmoil and the ability of the human spirit to continue to keep moving forward when your heart tells you the rules don't matter.
Nancy J
The Sandcastle Girls by Chris Bohjalian
THE SANDCASTLE GIRLS is a sobering, informative novel about the Armenian genocide of 1915-16. On the surface, it's a love story, but it's deeper than that --- a lesson from history that mankind continues to repeat.
