This contest period's winners were Liza G., Nancy H. and Richard B., who each received a copy of CRUEL BEAUTIFUL WORLD by Caroline Leavitt and TWO BY TWO by Nicholas Sparks.
Jane
The Buggy Before the Horse by Tricia Goyer
Starts with an Amish proverb, "A happy home is more than a roof over your head, it's a foundation under your feet." Cheryl's Aunt has gone to the Mission Field and left her in charge of Swiss Miss, a shop in Sugar Creek. Cheryl is English in an Amish area. Naomi, Amish, works in shop part-time and supplies homemade candles and preserves. Through the story is two mysteries. One is who is sleeping in the Miller's buggy? The other is who is stealing from the shops?
Trezeline
The Peach Keeper by Sarah Addison Allen
A sweet love story and a bit of a mystery.
Debbie
Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
I have seen the horror movies concerning Frankenstein, but Mary Shelley's book, FRANKENSTEIN, surpasses every Frankenstein movie. The language and grammar are superb, and the discussion of Frankenstein creating the creature generates wonder at Shelley's scope of science, literature, and multitudes of topics. Mary Shelley started the story at 18 and completed this descriptive story two years later. Shelley brings into the narrative many allusions to other writers both past and present. I listened to an audiobook, which presented an excellent reading of this journey. The story follows the narrative of Captain Robert Walton and then of Victor Frankenstein, both men present interesting views on life and death.
Debbie
A Banquet of Consequences by Elizabeth George
Yes, I thoroughly enjoy reading Elizabeth George, and this book continued that assumption. George, like Mary Shelley, employs eloquent language to enhance the story. The richness rests in the description of setting and character. The characters seep into your thoughts with all their foibles. So, which character utilizes poison and has the correct person died? Elizabeth George does not reveal the killer until the bitter end, after the reader has suspected the cast of characters. What is the motive? Again, George presents many possibilities as the story progresses. In this novel, Barbara Havers must be on her best behavior or she will be sent to a remote village. I enjoy the attempt to make Barbara more like the average inspector.
Sean Penrose
Let Me Go by Chelsea Cain
Another dementedly divine Archie & Gretchen book. Chelsea Cain delivers again and connects a lot of old plot lines together. While the mystery didn't last long, the ride was worth it. Archie's life continues to get worse as all hell breaks loose in his world. I also wished that Susan was less damsel in distress here but given the situation, its forgivable. Overall, another fantastic read by Chelsea Cain.
Nissa
Wife of Noble Character by Yvonne Georgina Puig
I loved this beautifully written story. It stuck with me long after I finished the book. The author perfectly describes the Texas flavor of the characters and scenery in an easy and in-depth manner. The characters are real (and funny too). This was a very enjoyable read.
Diana
Rich and Pretty by Rumaan Alam
The story is about two old friends, now 32 years old, whose lives have taken very different paths. Lauren is a middle-class scholarship student at a prep school where she meets wealthy Sarah, daughter of of a prominent politician. As Sarah's wedding approaches the women spend more time together than they had in the past few years. The book is character-driven with a thin plot, and I found it a quick read, with no lasting impression.
Elizabeth
Miller's Valley by Anna Quindlen
After reading several book by Miss Quindlen, I expected more. Years ago I loved her book BLACK AND BLUE. This story started out alright. A young girl living in a small town that had a flooding problem and her family dynamics with an aunt who never leaves her house and a brother who is the bad boy in town. Sounds good, but then reading in first person, where nothing really happens is plain boring. By then end of the book, I had stopped caring. Too many good books to waste time on this.
Rita
The Indifferent Stars Above by Daniel James Brown
Excellent read! This book was hard to put down. Mr. Brown provides a great deal of historical fact and gives us an understanding of this great American tragedy that occurred in the spring of 1847. This book is about survival, determination, strength and endurance to conquer one's dreams. The author focuses on one woman, Sarah Graves, and describes what happened to her and what she went through during that remarkable time. This is not just about the incredible journey of the Donner Party but also gives us insight to the American West. What a fantastic book!
Marilyn
Organizing the Good Life by Celia Rocks
Lots of great organizing ideas in narrative style.
Mary Healey
The Dollhouse by Fiona Davis
I thought I had this mystery solved early on. Boy, was I wrong! The novel held my interest until the end. The characters in the two stories that evolved came to life for me. Fiona Davis did a wonderful job on her first book. I am looking forward to more.
Bonnie
Best. State. Ever by Dave Barry
In Barry's inimitable way, he writes about his home state of Florida with humor that's laugh-out-loud funny.
Tessa B C
The Diva Runs Out of Thyme by Krista Davis
I love cozy mysteries – they are my reading comfort food. This has a pretty good premise, and I liked the rivalry between Sophie and Natasha. The story was filled with more suspects than you could shake a turkey leg at, and plenty of plot twists to keep the reader guessing. However, the central murder mystery plot was pretty thin, and the big reveal stretched credulity a little too far. Still, it’s a satisfying, fast read, and I’ll continue the series.
Mary Lou
The Couple Next Door by Shari Lapena
This book was incredibly compelling. I figured out early on who the bad guy was - I thought. And that about sums up this tale set in a quiet suburban town, with an everyman couple at its center. The twists and turns of the whodunnit are amazing. I read it in one day, and could not stop. I had to make myself slow down because I just wanted to find out the solution. I will say that the final wrap up was a little far-fetched, but considering this is a first novel, and considering how good it is, and how very much I enjoyed myself reading it, I can’t complain. I am looking forward to Shari Lapena’s sophomore offering very much!
Evelyn
Results May Vary by Bethany Chase
Different take on cheating. Enjoyable story.
Rosemary
113 Minutes by James Patterson
Great twist!
Lauren
The Light Between Oceans by M. L. Stedman
THE LIGHT BETWEEN OCEANS is quite a book. I gave this 5 stars because I went through all types of emotions while reading this. There was happiness, sadness, and lots of frustration. Yes, I cried. Yes, I still feel frustrated with the story when I think of it now, a month later. It was not a typical love story. There were ups and downs in the couple's relationship. One of those "downs" was when they come across a moral dilemma. Definitely a book I could not put down!
Kara
The Rainbow Comes and Goes by Anderson Cooper and Gloria Vanderbilt
Inspiring story of a mother and son who share their personal stories and feelings over the course of a year by email. Their relationship is strengthened in the process.
KC
The Tea Planter's Wife by Dinah Jefferies
I really loved the premise of this book. Ceylon, 1920. Tea plantation. 19-year-old Gwen marries older plantation owner, Laurence, and live an exotic life of wealth, prosperity, and love, but a secret challenges Gwen and her fairy tale life. This was a bit too dramatic for me with not enough history. I would have loved to have read more about the works of the plantation, the native people and their lives and challenges. I felt that it just wasn't my cup of tea -- pun intended.
Louise
Robert Ludlum's The Bourne Enigma by Eric Van Luarbader
Too violent.
Cheryle
The One Man by Andrew Gross
A total departure from the author usual genre. I could not put the book down. I wanted to get to the end and yet I did not! A historical novel set in WW II, mostly set at the concentration camp Auschwitz. Don't think this is yet just another war novel; this book is wonderfully written and engrossing. I cannot imagine how difficult it must have been to write. I encourage everyone to read this book!
Cheryle
Killer Look by Linda Fairstein
I love this author due to her insight into the world of New York City and crime due to her having been there, done that. This book takes the reader to the world of high fashion. The author has delivered another taut novel.
LINDA
Billionaire on the Loose by Jessica Clare
I obtained this ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review and loved Loch and Taylor's story! Taylor Westfield, a tech support, worked from her home in a tiny 400 square foot apartment. She played wars games online between calls. She didn't get out much after failed attempts at love. When her best friend whined to get her way to be a tour guide for a groomsman at her wedding, she sucked it up and agreed. Loch delle Scoliere didn't want to be in line to become the next king of his country as he wanted to keep his naughty ways of seducing, drinking, and playing polo with his mates. Then the queen decided he needed to go to America for a couple of years until the storm died on his cousin's marriage to an American.
Bobbie
Glory Over Everything by Kathleen Grissom
Liked it very much. Think it is even better if you read THE KITCHEN HOUSE first!
Elaine Baxter
Belgravia by Julian Fellowes
Written with the same love as DOWNTON ABBEY. This book kept me reading long into the night. As I approached the end I reread some of the previous chapters just so the book would not end. Downton Abbey fans, this is a must-read.
Noreen
Our Souls at Night by Kent Haruf
I thought the whole premise of the book unreal. I don't want to give anything away but Addie's proposal was unbelievable.
Donna
Crooked Little Lies by Barbara Taylor Sissel
This is an excellent story that truly keeps you guessing from the beginning to the end. The deceit, lies and intrigue continue throughout the book. I look forward to reading more of her books.
Summer
The Sound of Glass by Karen White
Very intriguing mystery mixed with interesting relationships!
Margaret
Elizabeth is Missing by Emma Healey
This is a debut novel that's mostly a dark, psychological mystery but has lighter moments also. Ms. Healey does a great job getting into the mind of an 82-yr-old woman, Maud, who is suffering short-term memory loss (dementia). Maud has a close friend, Elizabeth, and is unable to contact-/locate her. Nobody will listen to Maud's concerns since they know she has dementia. This storyline coordinates with the fact that Maud's older sister, Sukey, disappeared when they were young women. Maud remembers many things about Sukey and is still grieving her disappearance. I have done volunteer work with dementia patients and this author is spot-on in how the mind works in a dementia patient. This is an emotional novel that gives insight into dementia.
fran
All Fall Down by Jennifer Weiner
I haven't read a book by this author in a while and I'm glad I picked this one up. A young mom finds she needs more and more pills to get through her day until she spirals head-on into the world of addiction, AA and nearly losing everything. Jennifer depicts the cycle of denial and rationalization that accompanies addiction very well. I laughed and cried with this character. I would recommend this book to others.
Karen L Wieland
Family Tree by Susan Wiggs
Another great book from Wiggs. Storyline flows and keeps your interest.
Bonnie
Truly Madly Guilty by Liane Moriarty
Okay read, but not up to the level of her previous books.
Lynn W
Lilac Girls by Martha Hall Kelly
During WWII New York socialite Caroline Ferriday (a real person), Polish teenager Kasia Kuzmerick, and young German doctor Herta Oberheuser have nothing in common. At the conclusion of the war, however, their lives intertwine.
Rosa
The Imperial Wife by Irina Reyn
I do not know much about Russian history, so this book was a good introduction for me into the story of Catherine the Great. Half historical fiction and half contemporary fiction, the story is told in alternating chapters about Catherine the Great and Tanya Kagan, a Russian art expert working in a New York auction house. The writing is so good, I savored every word. I also learned a great deal about Russian culture and the Russian psyche. I want to read more of Irina Reyn's work.
Carroll
The Other Einstein by Marie Benedict
I received an ARC from The Book Report network. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book about Einstein's first wife and her life with him. I had not known anything about her before this book and it brought an interesting light to their scientific life together! I am looking forward to reading more from this new author.
LINDA
The Scandal (Billionaire's Beach Book 4) by Christie Ridgeway
I obtained this ARC in return for an honest review. Butler Sara Smyte fled London in lieu of a scandal about her former employer's unwanted affections. Of course the tabloids painted her as the home wrecker! Now, she had a second chance and she vowed to stay out of the public's eye. She'd cut and dyed her hair hoping she wouldn't be recognized here in Malibu. She had full reign to restore a huge mansion by the ocean and enjoyed being alone. Billionaire mongrel Joaquin Weatherford only wanted one thing as he drove up to his new home and that was a bed and peace and quiet, but the gate code didn't work. He was about to call his assistant when a sedan pulled up to the gate and a petite blonde stuck her hand out to enter a code.
Linda
Looking for Heroes: One Boy, One Year, 100 Letters by Aidan A. Colvin
The young author, who is dyslexic, decides to write 100 letters to known famous dyslexics and ask them for advice. The result is this book written by that young man with the guidance of his mother. The book includes notes from both Aidan and his mom to help others who have the same problem. It was wonderful to read through the changes in Aidan's attitude as he received letters in response to his query. It is just over 100 pages, but I would recommend it to anyone who does not understand what people with this disabling condition go through - people who look "normal" yet struggle with something that seems so easy to many of us.
Kathy
The First Star I See Tonight by Susan Elizabeth Phillips
Finally, a new Chicago Stars installment.
Kathy
The Woman in Cabin 10 by Ruth Ware
Another excellent page-turner by Ruth Ware!
Sheree
The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead
It was page-turning and very interesting. The brutality the slave endured was hard to read. I can see why Oprah picked this for her book choice. I have always liked her book choices.
Linda
Rocket Man by Craig Nelson
As the title says, this is the story of the first trip to the moon. History of rockets, the Russians space program, the Mercury and the Gemini programs that proceeded the Apollo program. This book brings back so many memories from my elementary years since my household was enthralled with the space program and especially Gene Kranz, who was from Toledo, and Ohioans John Glenn and Neil Armstrong. There was a lot new here for me. Richard McGonagle, the narrator, vocally is a clone for Leslie Nielson ("and stop calling me Shirley"). That was eerie but enjoyable.
Jan
The Art Forger by B. A. Shapiro
This was a fairly boring historical fiction book. Distasteful characters. Dreary
Jan
Wintering by Peter Geye
This is a lovely book about the families in a tiny northern Minnesota town. A father and son go out to live in nature for a winter. There are hardships but the son learns some things about his father. Both return but never have that closeness again. After the father's death, the son and his father's lover share information to better understand events and their feelings. This is a well written, beautiful book.
Helen brady
Eligible by Curtis Sittenfeld
A great modern version of PRIDE AND PREJUDICE.
Patricia
Black-Eyed Susans by Julia Heaberlin
This was my first time reading Julia Heaberlin and I absolutely loved it! She's so good at creating a creepy tone without going overboard. There were some parts of this book for which I was truly on the edge of my seat! And beyond that, the characters are well-rounded and interesting. And she's also so good at sprinkling in humor when you're least expecting it.
Hedwig
Blood Crimes by Sebastia Alzamora
Set in 1936 Barcelona during the Spanish Civil War, it has a vampire, monks, nuns, robotic animals and various good/evil characters. Based on the description you would think that it could not possibly be good -- however, it is worth the read as it is one of the most interesting//fun reads I have had in a while. First English printing.
Terry
Beginning French by Les Americains
I found this to be an engaging, easy-to-read memoir written by a couple who divide their time between California and a French farmhouse.
Molly L Wolfe
The Midnight Plan of the Repo Man by W. Bruce Cameron
I have loved all of Cameron's books that I've read, but this was the first of his that was a combination mystery/comedy. It was so much fun to read. Think Evanovich's Stephanie Plum series, except written by a man with a male main character. I immediately bought the novella and the second book in the series so I could continue to see what Ruddy McCann got into next. I highly recommend the whole series. Fingers crossed there will be more books in the series!
Lynn W
Beneath the Abbey Wall (The Highland Gazette Mystery Series #3) by A. D. Scott
The Highland Gazette's office manager is murdered. Mrs. Smart was wealthy so in the absence of any other leads, the police look at her heirs. Her husband is disabled - couldn't be him -- and he's very loudly accusing the newspaper's assistant editor. Don McLeod doesn't have a alibi - off to jail he goes. Now the staff has to print the weekly paper, shorthanded, and run an investigation to prove their colleague innocent.
sandy haber
First Star I See Tonight by Susan Elizabeth Phillips
Another entry into SEP's Chicago Stars series from a few years ago. This time it's about a former player who has decided to open a nightclub and the female detective who was hired by a potential investor into the club. On the surface there doesn't seem to be any reason for them to be more than employer-employee [she gets hired by the player to investigate his staff], but SEP manages to get them their HEA (happily ever after) with lots of fun.
Karen Wieland
Curious Minds by Janet Evanovich and Phoef Sutton
Janet Evanovich has another memorable couple you can't get enough of and can't wait to see what antics they get involved with.
LINDA
Booker - Streets of Mayhem: Volume 1 by John W. Mefford
I obtained this ARC from the author in exchange for an honest view and couldn't help but love Booker Adams. Dallas policeman, Booker T. Adams, is biracial and the only one in his family to graduate and make something of himself thanks to his uncle Charlie. On a cool afternoon, the boys and girls club where his young daughter was an unknown person called in supposed bomb threat and it would go off in ten minutes! In the last seven years on the force, he knew there were a few bad apples on the force and Ernie Sims was thick in the middle of them! When a white supremacist group claimed responsibility to killing mostly black children and adults he took it personally and didn't care he was without his gun and shield thanks to his boss.
Tessa B C
Die Job by Lila Dare
2.5 stars. I read cozies for the atmosphere – especially when they are set in a small Southern town – and for the quirky cast of characters. BUT, I do expect a reasonable murder mystery, and that is where this particular book fell short. This is Book Three in the series, though it’s the first one I’ve read, and perhaps the author is running out of ideas. Still, it’s a fast read and I might pick up another if it fulfills several challenges (as this one did).
Nadine
The Shadow Patrol by Alex Berenson
Spy book. John Wells goes undercover in Afghanistan not only among the Taliban but among fellow Americans to discover the traders and a drug trafficking operation.
Nadine
Property of a Noblewoman by Danielle Steel
A fun story about a mysterious safety deposit box that goes unclaimed, but when it is opened it is full of some incredible jewelry and a mystery. In true Danielle Steel style, the box and its contents leads a young legal intern and a dealer from Christie's auction house to explore the mysterious owner of the box, finding not only an intriguing story, but finding a romance.
Mary Lou
The Book of Speculation by Erika Swyler
I disliked this book. I couldn’t figure out what the storyline was about, I couldn’t identify with the characters, I couldn’t understand the symbolism, and I couldn’t wait to finish. It was this month’s pick for my book group, so I felt compelled to finish so I could intelligently discuss it, but, guess what. I didn’t understand enough of it to even know where to begin a discussion. The only part I could understand was the tarot card thread, and even that was pretty weird. Please, oh please never make me read something this obscure again. I’m sure it appealed to some people, but this literal, down-to-earth Capricorn was not happy during this read. Glad to take it back to the library and put it out of its and my misery.
LINDA
Flashback by Stephanie Queen
I obtained this ARC in return for an honest review and the story should have been about an older boy rather than fourteen-year-old Dane Blaise. Maybe I'm wrong but a fourteen-year-old that swore like a sailor and had scruples? Dane is the kind of kid that I wished had been my friend as he stood up for what was right and called the police without knowing the whole story but sensed something wasn't right at his school.
Karen
The Invention of Wings by Sue Monk Kidd
The five-star rating is the average from my book group. Everyone loved this book about two girls - a wealthy white (Sarah) and her black slave (Handful or Hetty) who was her property. The story recounts the real lives of two sisters in 1800s Charleston, S.C., who detested the way slaves were treated in their home. They became a force against slavery and impacted Handful's life.
Michelle
The Maltese Falcon by Dashiell Hammett
Can't believe this was made into a movie! For me, it was a snore!
Mary
Sting by Sandra Brown
A mix of romance and intrigue, as only Brown can do.
Dorothy
The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead
A look as slaves trying to escape an intolerable life and the people that helped them escape. Author went to life stories of slaves that were documented during Roosevelt presidency. Graphic in parts. This was read for book club.
Kay
The Woman in Cabin 10 by Ruth Ware
Compulsive read!! Totally engrossing!! Wonderful!!
Judy
The Black Widow by Daniel Silva
Once again, Gabrielle Allon is on the trail of someone who has instigated a terrorist attack in Paris. Killed in the action is a good friend, and also a prominent Jewish woman. In setting out to find the perpetrator of this plot, Gabrielle and "The Company" teach a Jewish doctor to become an Arab woman. Totally captivating story as always!
Carol
The Kept Woman by Karin Slaughter
I'm a huge fan of Karin Slaughter and have read all her books. This book continues the Will Trent storyline and does not disappoint. I could hardly put it down and the ending is very satisfying. She doesn't easily let you off the hook on figuring out who the bad guy is, and she teases you with the end. She is truly a fearless author and you are thrilled to be along for the ride.
Alice
In a Dark, Dark Wood by Ruth Ware
Wonderful book but not nearly as scary as I thought it would be.
Debbie
The Likeness by Tana French
One of the best mystery/thrillers I've ever read!
Vicki
You Will Know Me by Megan Abbott
The life of a family with a gifted gymnast is the theme of this novel. The things they give up, the money they borrow, the ignoring of other siblings as well as what is going on in their daughter's life besides or with the training.
Trude Vandine
Behind Closed Doors by B. A. Paris
One of those books that you aren't going to want to put down. The author did a masterful job telling the story by alternating past and present...each chapter getting closer to the here and now...and then...WOW! This is the kind of book that will leave you thinking about it for quite a while after you are done.
LINDA
Too Cute to Kill by Linda Crowder
I obtained this ARC in exchange for an honest review. Emma Rand is a forty-three-year-old therapist/counselor from San Francisco but moved to Casper, Wyoming when her marriage fell apart and married Jake Rand, an attorney specializing in juvenile justice cases. When they find a dead woman on their property in a snow storm, the police is called and before they can unravel the mystery another body is found!
Connie
The Couple Next Door by Shari Lapena
This book had quite a few twists and turns which I like. I didn't care for the end so I gave it 3 stars. Worth reading.
Connie
The Book That Matters Most by Ann Hood
I like this book because of how it was presented and how it ended. I wish I had read some of the books the book club in this book reviewed. I would have understood what they were talking about in their meetings. Interesting that they picked actual books. Would recommend it to any book club member.
Connie
Necessary Lies by Diane Chamberlain
This book is about a young newly married woman who takes a job as a social worker and begins to work with poor families in North Carolina 50 years ago. Learned a lot about how they sterilized young women who were retarded or scored low on their IQ tests. Protagonist is torn between what she feels she needs to do to help these clients and what the rules say. She also faces stress in her home life. This book is educational and interesting. I would highly recommend it.
Linda
The Storied Life of A. J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin
This is my second time around with this delightful book, but my first time as an audio. Who, as an avid reader, wouldn't love to spend uncounted time in a book store with book people? I'd go to the head of that line.
Sean Penrose
When The Bough Breaks by Jonathan Kellerman
While the protagonist is too perfect, author and psychologist Jonathan Kellerman does a fantastic job of creating a story that plunges into the darkest depths of the human psyche and entitlement. Dr. Alex Delaware goes out of his way to help put the pieces together as a consultant to the L.A.P.D. While being written in the mid 80s it's obviously dated but at the same time progressive. Kellerman shows acute knowledge on the subject matter while not boring the reader. There are many twists and turns and quite a few that I didn't see coming. Overall, this was a fantastic piece of fiction.
Donna
The Long Journey to Jake Palmer by James L. Rubart
Jake is a successful corporate speaker and teacher. He is not living what he teaches and his life is falling apart. He goes on an annual vacation trip with friends. Jake learns of a legend where there is a place you can go and your deepest wish can be fulfilled. He searches for this place and finds that it's a rough challenge to survive.
michelle goedert
The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie
This was a very quick read. I didn't realize that it was intended for "young adults".
Phyllis
The Woman in Cabin 10 by Ruth Ware
Since I was sailing on a small 50 passenger ship in the Mediterranean, I thought this story would be apropos! It was a quick read, but not the thriller I was anticipating.
Becky Haase
The Bitter Side of Sweet by Tara Sullivan
This middle-school novel tells the story of three children caught in the cacao industry in the Ivory Coast. Although hard to read because of the brutal treatment of the children, the book tells a worthwhile story. The three children of the story are two boys mislead to believe they would be working only for a season for wages. Instead they were neither paid nor allowed to leave. They worked under very harsh, primitive conditions. The story of the children’s eventual escape is both heartbreaking and thrilling.
Deby
The End of Your Life Book Club by Will Schwalbe
I really enjoyed this story of the author and his mother sharing some intimate moments as she faced death. Mary Anne's attitude and strength was very powerful to read about and I'm sure would have been even more so to see in real life.
Karen
Curious Minds by Janet Evanovich and Phoef Sutton
Another great crime fighting pair. These new characters definitely have the awesome memorable quirks as all of Evanovich's beloved characters. Another winner here!
LINDA
Unleashed (A Sydney Rye Mystery, # 1) by Emily Kimelman
I obtained this ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review. I had wanted to review this author for years as I heard good things about her books, now I'm a HUGE fan! Blue saved Joy from a bullet in her apartment, so when she fell in love with the large dog that was part wolf and unknown several other breeds she guessed she save him from the pound. Joy Humbolt had broken up with Marcus, lost her barista job and the next day went to adopt a dog. Joy is not a people person so it wasn't like she cried for serving up coffee, in fact, she enjoyed the look on the old biddy's face when she told her off before her boss came out and fired her! At one point she agreed to buy a dog walking service from Charlene.
Fran
Fool Me Once by Harlan Coben
Strong, interesting story with a poor ending. The ending made no sense and seemed like it was just thrown in because the author didn't have any idea how to end it. I was pretty disappointed by this one.
Lori
Truly Madly Guilty by Liane Moriarty
This story has a little bit of everything, interesting characters, interesting story, drama, mystery. There were a few surprises, more than a few, lessons to be learned, forgiveness and wishing your choices would have been different. I really enjoy this author. She has a way of weaving stories within stories so it never falls flat. I would've given 5 stars but the reflection of what happened that night and the build up went on too long so sometimes I found myself just reading to find out what happened that night instead of just being absorbed in the story.
Lori
Me Before You by Jojo Moyes
Loved this book! First one by this author for me. This was such a heartwarming and enduring read, with an understanding of what true love is through challenges and struggles. I will go grab the next one from this author, truly enjoyable.
Muriel
West With the Night by Beryl Markham
After finishing Paula McLain's book CIRCLING THE SUN, which we read for book club, I decided I wanted to know more about this remarkable lady, Beryl Markham. I'm so glad I read Markham's memoir. I felt I got to know her even better through her own words. Her writing style is quite poetic at times and she has a masterful way with words. In her book I learned even more about her love of Africa, relationship with horses, and flying adventures. I highly recommend the book to anyone who wants to learn more about this amazing lady.
Francisca E B
Beloved by Toni Morrison
This is a challenging book to read (and to listen to) because Morrison uses multiple narrators, switches time frames without notice, and dribbles out clues to what really happened in a way that keeps the reader off balance and unsure where the story is headed. I did think the “atmospheric” writing sometimes got in the way of the storyline. Still, I loved Morrison’s use of language; I felt immersed in the story, the time frame, the magic, and the brutal reality.
Thomas
City on Edge by Stefanie Pintoff
A very good book. I really liked reading it.
robin
The Couple Next Door by Shari Lapena
I know that this book did receive good reviews from many people. I was disappointed because I figured out the mystery about halfway through and then just read to see how it played out. I do think the characters are well fleshed out.
Marsha
Insidious by Catherine Coulter
This FBI thriller, part of her series, is the weakest of them all. That said, it is still a good police procedural -- told in two stories a coast apart. It would have been a stronger thriller if she had just concentrated on one of the stories.
Vicki
The Woman in Cabin 10 by Ruth Ware
Chilling mystery of a body thrown overboard and the woman journalist who hears it. No one believes her bur she knows what she saw. Who can she trust? Who wants her to "stop digging"?
Suzy
Holidays on Ice by David Sedaris
This is one of the funniest books I've ever read! Sedaris worked as a Macy's Christmas elf and his story about his travails is snortingly funny. There are other stories in this short book but that's definitely my favorite. His writing is honest and not for everyone.
Dorothy
First Comes Love by Emily Giffin
This was very good. The story of a family handling the death of their brother and how they were still handling it many years later. I hope that there is a sequel because I didn't like the end. There were too many questions unanswered.
Marcia
Mischling by Affinity Konar
This is not a pleasant book, but a haunting story of twins at the mercy of Mengela's experiments in Auschwitz during WWII. Pearl and Stasha are thirteen years old when interred. The love and closeness they share are threatened through the experiences they endure. It's not just their story, but remembering the past. I won't go into specifics because it would spoil the book for others. I do recommend it.
Elizabeth
The One-in-a-Million Boy by Monica Wood
What a whirlwind of emotions. Get prepared for a generational story with a 104 woman and a remarkable 11-year-old boy. World records, life stories and unusual friendships emerge. This is a long book, but so worth the read.
Peggy
Blood Wedding by Pierre Lemaitre
This was such a gripping book, I would give it 6 stars if I could. The plot was incredibly complicated yet believable right to the end.
Linda
Bucky F*cking Dent by David Duchovny
I knew David Duchovny as an actor. I knew he had written a previous work that had gotten good press, so I thought I tried this after seeing the author on Colbert. I might have enjoyed the story if it wasn't so crass. The story concerns a writer estranged from his dying father who moves in to take care of his old man. They do have a common interest in baseball and the Boston Red Sox's potential to get to the world series. This book got good reviews from at least two major newspapers, but it just wasn't my cup of tea. Now, I think I need to drink something a little stronger.
Jill
The Nest by Cynthia D'Aprix Sweeney
When I read the reviews of THE NEST when it had just been published, I knew it was my kind of read. Sweeney's use of a bird's nest as metaphor for a financial nest egg is effective, given this messed-up family's interactions. Their father has left each child some money to help out. Each sibling, Jack, Melody, and Beatrice have plans for how they'll use their share, mainly to bail themselves out of money problems. However, before they can get their shares, their older brother used it to settle a suit and won't pay them back. This is the story of the aftermath of this event. The siblings discover things about each other and themselves. Their interactions and struggles feel real. Seeing how the siblings change over time make for a great read!
Betty
Behind Closed Doors by B. A. Paris
This book had me as soon as I read the synopsis inside the front cover. Jack and Grace, the perfect couple – looks, money, prestige. Jack, an attorney who defends battered women, dotes on her; she strives to please him, preparing elaborate meals for guests, always looking perfectly eloquent. Jack insists on having Grace’s younger sister (who has Down’s syndrome) move in with them. But then you have to wonder why she never answer the phone? Why she has no cell phone? Never goes anyplace without him? Something just seems a bit off. I just wanted to place myself behind closed doors – so I would not be disturbed while on this tense, suspenseful ride.
Simonne
Georgia by Dawn Tripp
Interesting insight into a woman way ahead of her time. Too bad neither of the main characters is very likable. Well researched.
Judy
The Last Mile by David Baldacci
Someone wants Melvin Mars, accused of murdering his parents, to be released from jail on the eve of his execution. Who and why are the questions to be answered by a special investigative team, including someone who knew Mars as a fellow football player.
Judy
Hollow City: The Second Novel of Miss Peregrine's Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs
I found this book as much of a page-turner as Book One; every page had eventful action to one of the characters that I immediately found to be charming and lovable. The main character, young Jacob's heart is set in stone by his parents/grandparents. He has all the right qualities of a knight in shining armor, but so does the young lady in his heart. All of the children caress your heart as you read; I found myself talking aloud to them in times of crisis. I absolutely love this series not only because of the endearing young people, but because the plot moves at the right pace. I get confused if they move too quickly without proper explanation. They are all heroes.
Susie
The Trouble With Goats and Sheep by Joanna Cannon
I feel as if this book flew under the radar of many. The paperback is released in December and I am hoping more will buzz about this book where two young girls try to solve a mystery and reveal the truth of each neighbor on their block. I was surprised to find the amount of soothing wisdom woven through each chapter and am tempted to go back and highlight certain passages.
Brady
I Married a Best Seller by Sheila Hailey
This is one of the best memoirs I have ever read, i.e., it talks of the author's life as well as her husband's in detail. Of course her husband was Arthur Hailey, a wonderful novel author. For anyone knowing how to best explain the sex world to a child, this is the story for you. To understand how to heal a dissolving marriage, read this book. To realize the joy of life and accept the pitfalls inherent in just living...read this book. It is a wonder!
Sandy
The Precious One by Marisa de los Santos
One of her best books. Just when you think nothing else could happen, something does. I recommend this book very highly.
Sandy McCullough
The Good Father by Noah Hawley
I found this book kind of disturbing at times, but most of all I found it very enlightening. How would you feel if your son killed a senator that was running for president and he said he was guilty, but you did not believe him?
Janice
The Lost Girls by Heather Young
This is an outstanding debut novel about a family that has a young daughter that is missing and never returns. The family vacations in a summer house, and the girl goes missing in 1935. Her mother spends the rest of her life waiting for the girl to return. The main narrator is Lucy, a woman looking back on her life as she realizes she hasn't much time left. Lucy tells the story about that fateful summer and its aftermath. Her grand-niece also tells her story as she copes with two daughters of her own and becomes the inheritor of Lucy's estate. This is a very compelling book that I can recommend to anyone that loves a great story. You will never guess what happened to the missing girl.
Sheree
The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead
Great book of the time period. Sad to think those things happened.
LINDA
The Devil's Bedpost by Lena Hart
obtained this ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review, and OMG HANG ON TO YOUR SEATS!! David Carrone is the bastard son of a crime boss. He had spent the past fifteen years distancing himself from his past life of being a player since he rediscovered his childhood friend's sister. Then it was all over for him ad she finally accepted his proposal, but it was almost a year later and she hadn't set the date. One argument about her older brother too many and Tena threw back his ring and walked out on him, and now she was missing. Athena Lewis had a crush on David since she was eight years old. When she and her brother went to live with a reluctant grandmother that took them in when their parents died in an accident.
Nancy
Two If by Sea by Jacquelyn Mitchard
Frank Mercy has lost his entire family in a tsunami in Brisbane. During the storm he saves a little boy from a sinking car. Frank does not turn in the boy to authorities, but instead takes him back to his farm in the Midwest. There he discovers Ian has special powers and someone is looking for him for these powers.
Annette Callan
Death of a Nurse by M. C. Beaton
Hamish MacBeth, Lochdubh, the Highlands, the Colonel, Priscilla, the Currie sisters, the pets -- so many familiar characters makes for a comfortable read. Fun escapism.
LINDA
This Man by Jodi Ellen Malpas
Book One just makes me hunger more to read the next and can't wait to see what Jesse and Ava do next!
Sandra
The Perfect Girl by Gilly Macmillan
This is the second book from Macmillan, and while the mystery was different from the first one, it still had similar elements. I loved the first novel. This isn't a bad book; it just didn't grab me and hold me under its grip. But worth a read.
Judy O.
The Wonder by Emma Donoghue
USA Today called this book "gloriously Gothic" and I think it's a good description. This is a very unique book about an 11-year-old girl in Dublin named Anna in the 1800s. She has refused to eat a single bite for 4 months. She has become a tourist destination, and the community wants to put a stop to the whole thing. They hire a young nurse, a "Nightingale nurse", to come to stay with the girl for 2 weeks to see if she can catch Anna eating anything. The book has a very surprising ending. This author also wrote ROOM.
Dianne
And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie
An excellent read from the queen of mystery writing. What a classic.
LINDA
Game Alive by Trip Ellington
I obtained this ARC from the author in return for an honest review, and I can't wait to see what the trio of friends get into next as Jake is a fascinating teen! Hurry with the sequel, Trip!
Peg
Here's to Us by Elin Hilderbrand
Elin Hilderbrand is one of my favorite authors. I have enjoyed all her books. This one, not so much. It's set on Nantucket where all of her novels are set, but somehow the location did not enhance this novel like before. Two ex-wives and a current wife who was getting ready to divorce her husband, celebrity Chef Deacon, are gathering on Nantucket to spread his ashes. They are coming together because this was his last request. I had a hard time keeping the characters straight. The storylines were not all that interesting to me but I stayed with it because I felt it would get better. It didn't. The author has written a lot of wonderful books and maybe she has run out of ideas. This novel didn't measure up to the others.
LINDA
Dare To Love Series: Her Seductive Dare by Lena Hart
I obtained this ARC from the author in return for and honest review and fell in love with Sean Colt!
Nadia Pierre, a school teacher in Miami, had ran late getting to the bistro for her ladies night with her friends. It seemed they'd started without her judging from their gazed eyes. Her friends dared her to play the truth or dare game and she didn't want them to know she'd not had sex in three years, so she chose the dare instead as she was a terrible liar and they wouldn't rest until they found her a man. How bad could it be? Then she was dared to kiss a sexy man at the bar.
Sean Colt had a hell of a week and had stopped in the nearest bar for a drink. His life had been a bunch of secrets and lies.
Gladys
Expecting the Rancher's Child by Sara Orwig
He was wealthy but very much seeking revenge from his father who abandoned him; she was from a loving home and a very successful interior decorator who gave up her career to help needy youngsters and pets. Their ambitions could not have been more different, yet there was something drawing them together that they could neither understand nor resist. There's a truly valuable moral to this interesting story.
Laura Hilger
Pretty Girls by Karin Slaughter
Great book to binge read because it is hard to put down. Suspense thriller with some crazy twists! This is also our book club book. Can't wait to get together to discuss this week!
Bonnie
Live by Night by Dennis Lehane
Interesting novel about a gang leader in the early part of the 20th century. Not as good as MYSTIC RIVER or GONE BABY GONE, but still better than most.
Bonnie
Letters to His Daughter by F. Scott Fitzgerald
I've owned this book for over 40 years and read it when I was very young. I just re-read it and it's amazing how much more resonance it has now that I'm a mother and grandmother. Wise words from a dad to his daughter.
Michael
The Girl with the Lower Back Tattoo by Amy Schumer
I think Amy Schumer is funny. I felt like a gynecologist by the end of this book. She moves to vagina jokes and pretty much sets up camp there. Some of them are funny but I feel like there was a missed opportunity to cover other subjects. I can't help comparing her to other humor authors (Tina Fey still reigns supreme in my book... get it? Book?) and she stands up pretty good. I enjoyed this book.
Erica Green
Hot Blooded by Lisa Jackson
She is one of my favorite authors. I couldn't put this book down. I'd recommend this book to any adult who loves suspense, mystery, and horror books.
Richard N B
Zia Summer by Rudolfo Anaya
This is a very atmospheric murder mystery, full of the magical realism that goes with ghost stories and folk tales. But the plot has a fair amount of very real and gritty violence, perpetrated by flesh-and-blood humans, not paranormal entities. The way Anaya describes the landscape, and various characters’ relationships with the land is frequently poetic. I particularly liked Don Eliseo and his cronies, and the ways they helped (or hindered) Sonny’s investigation.
Jan
The Marco Effect by Jussi Adler-Olsen
This is the 5th in the Department Q series. A burned-out, honest policeman is put in charge of Department Q, where the unsolved and unsolvable cases reside. No one expects much of him. His office is in the basement.
Karen L Wieland
Insiduous by Catherine Coulter
Wow, just love Savich and Sherlock and here is another great FBI story so well told by Coulter. Book gets and keeps attention from page one. Another winner and hope she keeps them coming.
Karen L Wieland
Sunrise Crossing by Jodi Thomas
Thomas is such a talented author and has another cowboy romance winner here. Thomas makes her characters memorable and make the story feel very real to the reader. The chemistry she creates between the characters makes you fall in love and root for them.
Karen L Wieland
Always a Cowboy by Linda Lael Miller
I just love revisiting Mustang Creek, WY and the lovable, memorable characters Miller creates. She captures the reader's attention early and keeps them wanting more till the bitter end. When reading you feel like you know these latest characters and want to crawl right into the book and help them find the love you know is coming. Second in the new series, I am impatiently awaiting the next book.
Donna
The Telling by Alexandra Sirowy
A group of teens during the summer before their senior year of high school become the victims of a killer. A well-done story.
Liza
Troublemaker by Leah Remini
I've always been curious about the mystery of Scientology and this book opened my eyes to the extremist "religion". Leah Remini is funny and sensitive. A good read.
Karen
Commonwealth by Ann Patchett
Two sets of parents, four individuals, two of which are very self-centered which results in a divorce and the marriage of the two. One parent in each family lives in California and the other in the Commonwealth of Virginia. The novel deals with the effect on the rearranged families and the six children involved. The children get along reasonably well, but they are profoundly affected by the death of the oldest child during the summer vacation in Virginia. Dealing with the tragedy shapes how they grow up and live their adult lives and interact with their parents.
Betsy Aiello
The Woman in Cabin 10 by Ruth Ware
I couldn't stop reading. It was amazing. I didn't see the ending coming. I would not read it in the dark.
Lynn W
An Old Betrayal (Charles Lenox #7) by Charles Finch
This series is delightful and this installment is the best...so far!
Gladys
The Man Plan by Tracy Anne Warren
Her older sister broke his heart, but Ivy loved him dearly and had loved him for years. Could she possibly get him to love her? Would he always only look on her as his true love's younger sister? Ending up living so close to him proved torture. But she was one determined person! Her tactics to win his love made for a very interesting story.
Brenda
The Other Einstein by Marie Benedict
This historical fiction was well worth the time it took to read it. The story stirred up some strong emotions in this reader. At times I wanted to shoot A. Einstein. History has stated that A. Einstein was self-centered. The author did a wonderful job of telling the story of Meleva Maric Einstein. Some reader's might think that this story was written to diminish Einstein. I didn't see it that way; it does not diminish but instead it makes Einstein a little more human. I am glad I can post this review on the month this book is released to the public. In the future I will seek out some of the nonfiction books about Einstein that the author mentioned in her notes. If you enjoy historical fiction then you must take the time to read this book.
Marcia
First Impressions by Charlie Lovett
If you like Jane Austin, mysteries, books, and a London setting, you will love FIRST IMPRESSIONS by Charlie Lovett. Mr. Lovett weaves two stories (alternating chapters) - one the young writer Sophie Collingwood, who is researching Jane Austen, and the other Jane Austen's own story of friendship with a clergyman. There is an endearing cast of characters, a page-turning mystery, and a delightful ending to a thrilling book.
Fran
A Cry in the Night by Jean Small Brinson
The true story of a woman who has to face the horrors of her past and her current mental illness. An interesting portrayal of one woman's journey through the mental health system. Unfortunately, most stories such as hers, do not have such a happy ending.
Maureen
Country by Danielle Steel
Typical Steel romance but entertaining.
Lynn W
The Six: The Lives of the Mitford Sisters by Laura Thompson
Born into English privilege, Nancy, Pamela, Diana, Unity, Jessica, and Deborah led stylish, but scandalous lives. Their stark - and very public - extreme political differences reflected Europe in the dangerous years before WWII.
Karen L Wieland
Cross Kill by James Patterson
I loved the full book version and wanted to see if the shorter version was as good. It was!! Though the titles are the same there are differences and it's well worth the read. Quick and easy to read when you have just a few minutes. Has the same thrill and mystery as any Patterson book.
Linda
Thrice the Brinded Cat Hath Mew'd by Alan Bradley
As soon as I hear that Alan Bradley has another Flavia book, I notify my library to put my name on the waiting list. Usually, I'm the one that lets them know a new one is coming out. Months of anticipation build until the notification the book is in. I rush to the library to get the book, wondering if this will be as good as the last one. It is and find that I turn the pages faster than the winner of the Indy 500 runs laps. Then...disappointment. What will I do until the next one comes out? Come on Mr. Bradley. I want another. Especially because of the way this book ended. What happened? What will happen? I don't want to wait to find out.
Kylie
Wrecked (A Regan Reilly Mystery, Book 13) by Carol Higgins Clark
Lame.
Tessa B C
Not My Father's Son by Alan Cumming
In general I am not a big fan of celebrity memoirs, but Cumming’s memoir of a childhood living with an abusive father, and how he came to terms with the abuse, faced his past and overcame it is well worth reading.
LINDA
Blackbird Fly (Book 1) by Lise McClendon
Merle Bennett thought about it after her husband had a fatal heart attack -she didn't know when she stopped loving him. It was hard to be the grieving widow everyone wanted her to be, as all he ever did was work. When she learned her wealthy husband played his hunches with the market and had planned to cash in his investments, he died in his chair before he had a chance. That wasn't the only shock she had as the mortgage on a home she didn't want was refinanced and her son's college money was nowhere to be found. She did learned that Harold's parents' home in France was debt-free so she decided to move in and start all over as she was just forty-nine and a lawyer.
