This contest period's winners were Diane R., Kathy P. and Patricia R., who each received a copy of HER EVERY FEAR by Peter Swanson and THE NOWHERE MAN: An Orphan X Novel by Gregg Hurwitz.
Heather
The Wrong Side of Goodbye by Michael Connelly
Another great Michael Connelly read. Harry may have retired but he is not gone and obviously will never change. A good suspenseful plot with the usual well-developed characters. A quick read, difficult to put down.
Carol Elliott
Night School by Lee Child
Lee Child's Reacher never disappoints. What a great character he has created.
Susan
The Color of Lightning by Paulette Jiles
Great story about early settlement times in Texas and the conflicts between the settlers and the Comanche and Kiowa Indians. The author did a great job of presenting the Indian perspective of the relationship between the white settlers and the Indians, as well as providing the story of a black family who settled there. It was one of the few books I have read that addressed the impact on children taken and then adopted by the Indian tribes who were later "rescued." Very well told story and interesting storyline.
Betty
The Master Butchers Singing Club by Louise Erdrich
The quality of Erdrich's writing never ceases to amaze me. I thought the book was a little too long while I was reading it, but when I was finished, I realized it was just right.
Shelley Thompson
Matylda, Bright & Tender by Holly M. McGhee
MATYLDA, BRIGHT AND TENDER is a short juvenile fiction book with a huge emotional punch. Two best friends adopt a leopard gecko and name her Matylda. After an accident, one friend must go on, find a way to cope, and care for Matylda. The descriptions of handling grief are described so vividly that I wonder if the author actually lost a friend or child too. This is a well-crafted story that I will highly recommend.
Jane
A Dog Walks Into a Nursing Home: Lessons in the Good Life from an Unlikely Teacher by Sue Halpern
This book was a Christmas gift from a friend who knew I would enjoy it because it is about a therapy dog team. This team visits a local nursing home, and their experiences echo those of my dog and I on our weekly visits to a nursing home. Great book for anyone who is, or may be, considering work as a licensed therapy dog team.
Caitlyn
The Perfect Girl by Gilly MacMillan
After reading GONE GIRL I've been obsessed with reading suspense novels. At the beginning of the book it's hard to keep up with because of the back and forth between characters and time frame that the book takes place, but after the first few chapters is when you really dive in and can't put the book down. The writer writes very descriptively; you find yourself with vivid images of what you're reading. The author adds the right amount of suspense that keeps you hanging on and unable to put the book down. I will be looking into more of this author's books! If you were a fan of THE GIRL ON THE TRAIN or GONE GIRL, I highly recommend this book.
LINDA
Discerning Spirits by Kellie McAllen
I freely chose to review this new author's book, and I will be a fan of hers for life! Zep Arellas is half human and half angel, a Celestia Divisa only known to the tight celestia community where they mingled with humans. His parents were special and they thought he would be double gifted. It was a rarity, but as he was presented to the church one week after his birth, the leader said that he had no gift but it would come to him in time. Seventeen years later, Zep felt like a failure to his parents when his gift had yet to appear. He knew that most of his friends were the same as he was, but as he caught a red-haired girl staring across the cafeteria at him he could swear she was one of them, but she never acknowledged his signals.
Hailey
Girls on Fire by Robin Wasserman
Dark, creepy, deliciously thrilling debut novel! It took me close to two months to read and finish it but finish it I did! I honestly cannot believe this is the work of a debut novelist. Robin Wasserman writes as if she has been writing for 10 years or more. The way it ends, you won't see it coming! You think it will end this way and then the next thing you know, the actual ending is something completely different. It's a story about friendship, love, obsession, possession and rejection. Read it. You won't regret it!
Barbara
The Murder Game by Julie Apple (Catherine McKenzie)
I really enjoyed this legal thriller and even more so since it has a neat tie-in to FRACTURED, a book by the same author writing as Catherine McKenzie. I liked the two time lines going on in the story, one from the law school days of the main four characters and the second from the the trial that happens to involve them all in one way or another after they are established in their respective fields.
Cynthia
Clawback by J. A. Jance
It keeps your reading until you get the final answers.
Pat
The Nine of Us by Jean Kennedy Smith
We've all read numerous books on Kennedys but I found this to be true love story of her siblings. They truly had a loving, pack-filled life of laughter and games when young. Very enjoyable read.
Missie
Leave Me by Gayle Forman
I must be able to like the character for some reason - either they are so horrible they are awesome or just like them in general. I did not like Maribeth at all. She was just atrocious and not in a good way. She was unbelievable and the plot was all smashed up with several side issues. Then it just ended. I had to read the ending several times to make sure it really was the end. My book club read this for December selection and out of 12 readers two people liked it. Maybe next time, Gayle. I loved IF I STAY.
Karen
Night School by Lee Child
I have read all of Lee Child's books and really loved them all. This latest book was a big disappointment. It seemed very hard to follow and the writing was not like Child's previous books. I did not care for the storyline. It was almost like someone else was writing. I was surprised when my husband had the same opinion.
Pat
Winter Storms by Elin Hilderbrand
Supposed to be final book in trilogy -- but so happy Elin decided to write a 4th -- can't wait. I love all her books and writings about Nantucket.
Alina
Behind the Beautiful Forevers by Katherine Boo
Excellent depiction of life in a slum in Mumbai, India. Slum dwellers experience the same feelings
of hope, despair, envy, as do the citizens of more wealthy areas. Corruption, unfortunately, is rampant. Very good but depressing read.
norene wittlin
The Swans of Fifth Avenue by Melanie Benjamin
A really good read.
Bill
The Midnight Bell by Jack Higgins
Jack Higgins has gotten into a rut since he introduced Sean Dillon to readers several books ago. All the recent plots deal with al-Qaeda's efforts to destroy the West via the "all-knowing" Master who hoodwinks all sorts of criminals to try and kill Dillon and his Prime Minister private army. So far Dillon and crew have knocked off two Masters and having a go at #3 in this book. I hate to say "same-old, same-old" but Higgins needs to break out a fresh storyline, engaging characters, and breath some life back into his writing. His first dozen or so thrillers remain his best.
Mary
Here's To Us by Elin Hilderbrand
Chef Deacon Thorpe's death brings his current wife and his two ex-wives (as well as his three children, agent and good friend) together at the Thorpe family summer home on Nantucket. Although Deacon struggled with his life and choices, he was loved by all these people. Hilderbrand gives us the stories of all these relationships.
Sandra
Betrayals by Kelley Armstrong
This is the third book in this paranormal Cainsville Series. Each one is better than the last. I look forward to finding out how the romantic triangle of Olivia, Gabriel and Ricky works itself out.
Linda
The Very Persistent Gappers of Frip by George Saunders
4.5 stars. A story with a moral. The 3-house town of Frip has a problem. Gappers come out of the sea each night and attach to the community's goats. Each day, the owners remove the gappers and throw them back into the sea. One day, things change for two of the three families, for the better. Would they be good neighbors and help the single family still dealing with the gappers? You know the answer and what follows. But how will everyone be happy in the end? Or will they? You'll have to find your own copy of this adult children's book, with illustrations by my favorite, Lane Smith. It's worth the trip to the bookstore or the library. Charming.
Patty
Snow Globe by Laura V. Hilton
An Amish story about love. Loved it.
Ann
Afterwards by Rosamund Lupton
New twist on mystery.
Joanne
Small Great Things by Jodi Picoult
Not a big fan of Picoult after her first few books. Decided to give this one a try since it got great reviews. Absolutely loved the book. Great twist!
Judy
Far From True by Linwood Barclay
We are back in Promise Falls and some strange things are happening. Twenty-three squirrels stung up on a university fence and the bombing of a local drive-in screen on the last night it is in operation. Both these events and more are strung together to make you wonder who is driving the strange forces in this small town. Waiting for THE TWENTY-THREE, the last book of the trilogy.
Sharon
Small Great Things by Jodi Picoult
A gripping, can't-put-down story that clearly shows the inequities that are experienced by non-white persons in America. A black labor and delivery nurse is banned from caring for a newborn and then is left with that baby when it has cardiac arrest. The subsequent acts of prejudice lead to more loss and revelations that should be considered by each of us.
Kay
A Spool of Blue Thread by Anne Tyler
This book explores the inner workings of a family and their interactions with one another. It is divided into several parts, allowing the reader to see the present situation and also what has happened in the past.
Lynn W
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Annie Barrows and Mary Ann Schaffer
Very glad my book club decided to read this. I had forgotten how it's just a wonderful, feel-good story.
Sue
Eighty Days by Matthew Goodman
History of the true story of Nelly Bly's quest to circumnavigate the globe in less than 80 days. Little known, the Elizabeth Bisland conducted the same trip in the opposite direction. Good history of the challenges of young women who try to break into journalism in 1880's New York City. Well written, cogent history of two detailed journeys.
Rosemary
A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles
I guess we can adapt to anything. Very interesting.
ILene
The British Lion by Tony Schumacher
This alternative history novel takes place in Nazi occupied London during World War II. The main plot is for the United States to kidnap a top atomic scientist, who happens to be a Jewish woman, working against her will, to develop the atomic bomb. There are many groups and subplots in this story. Keeping track of them is a challenge to the reader.
Donna
Dis Mem Ber by Joyce Carol Oates
The title tells it all. I realize the author has received awards, but this book was difficult for me to read. It tells several stories of women who are or become quite disturbed and left me feeling sad.
Karen
The Black Widow by Daniel Silva
Great read. Really holds your attention. Very thought-provoking.
Richard N B
Pax by Sara Pennypacker
Peter is forced to turn his pet fox, Pax, loose in the woods, but then reconsiders and sets out to rescue his beloved pet. This is a wonderful tale of loyalty, love, grief and perseverance. The point of view shifts from from Pax’s story to Peter’s experiences by chapters. Both Peter and Pax have been betrayed and are distrustful as a result. They draw on reserves of strength, courage and perseverance they didn’t know they had to help not only themselves but those around them.
Orianne
The Sixth Extinction by Elizabeth Kolbert
An incredible book about how humans are bringing about the next extinction.
Judy J Walker
The Whistler by John Grisham
One of Grisham's best! If you enjoy legal thrillers you will love this one.
Bonnie
The Moonflower Vine by Jetta Carleton
A bestseller decades ago and recently reissued, this novel sneaks up on you. You think it's a pleasant little family saga of life in simpler times. Oh, but it's so much more. The characters are so fully developed that I kept expecting to see them walking down the street. Well worth the read.
Bonnie
No You Can't Touch My Hair by Phoebe Robinson
The author is presumably a humorist, but I found this book more tedious that funny. A little too whiny for my taste.
Jud
Playing with Fire by Peter Robinson
What more can be said than this is another riveting novel by Robinson. Few can do it as well as he can. This one features Banks and Cabot diving into the world of art forgery when a suspected forger is killed by arson. I highly recommend this novel.
Jud
The Fireman by Joe Hill
Picked this book because it was a Goodreads winner in the Horror category. It was entertaining but overhyped. Still, it's my first book by this author, so I will give him another try.
Lynn
The Keeper of Lost Things by Ruth Hogan
As a way to reconcile a past loss, a gentleman begins to collect items that people drop or lose without realizing it. He catalogs these items with the hope of someday locating and returning the items to the correct owners. After the gentleman passes, this task falls to his assistant to whom he has left his entire fortune, along with all of the lost objects. This story holds a wonderful mixture of happiness, sadness, a little magic, creating new connections, and helping a restless spirit find peace. This wonderful debut by Ruth Hogan ended way too soon for this reader!!
Eve
The Girls in the Garden by Lisa Jewell
Interesting, well-written story of family dynamics, single parenting and community with some danger and mystery thrown in.
LINDA
Hank and Sarah by Juliette Duncan
I freely chose to review this ARC from an unknown author to me and I'm glad to had the honor of reading it and can't wait for the next one! Hank and Sarah's story is a testament of their faith in God and their love. Sarah lost her husband nine years ago and never let him go as she never thought of dating anyone else, until she met Hank. But someone was sending her nasty letters about Hank, and she couldn't imagine him being awful as the letters said, but she trusted in God to make it right. This book was written for young girls, but it can be enjoyed by all ages!
LINDA
For Always by Karen Wiesner
I freely chose to review this book and I was so caught up in the drama before I realized that this abuse happens to women everyday! All of her life Alana Hamilton thought she wasn't good enough until one woman rescued her from the orphanage and showed her love she's never known. When she first met Jared she liked him, and each day they were together she fell a little more in love with him. As teenagers, she wanted waited for him to kiss her, but he never did. When one man showed interest in her she agreed to marry him and she put her fantasy about marrying Jared to the side as it was her fairy tale and fairy tales never came true.
Nancy
The Sandcastle Girls by Chris Bohjalian
I really enjoy Chris Bohjalian's books. He is never predictable as far as plot, settling, characters, etc. This book told the story of an Armenian American woman and her family and traced her grandparents' back to the genocide of Armenians in 1915. I knew nothing about the history of this terrible time before reading this book.
Debbie
I Loved Her in the Movies by Robert J. Wagner and Scott Eyman
Robert Wagner loves women, and that love shines in his novel about the movie icons of yesteryear. Wagner brings in many fascinating tidbits about each of the actresses, but his style cuts the flow of the story. Many times, I floundered when reading, and wondered which actress Wagner was describing. I learned many lessons while reading the story, and the most important is that becoming an actress in the early days of the cinema was not for the feeble. Wagner brings a humanity and a vulnerability to the actresses.
Debbie
A Bend in the Willow by Susan Clayton-Goldner
I enjoy reading about different areas, and this story centered on Kentucky and Arizona. I am still amazed to learn that a Jewish doctor could also be a rough and tough cowboy, who mucks stables and rides a horse. Catherine Henry, alias Robin Lee Carter, and her doctor husband must find a genetic match for their 5-year-old son, Michael, who has leukemia. Catherine must return to her buried past to save her son. The story moves quickly through Catherine's search for an abandoned son and a reconciliation with her forgotten family. Goldner does not have the depth of character and plot that authors such as Louise Penny, Charles Todd, and Elizabeth George display in their books.
Beatrice
Edgar & Lucy by Victor Lodato
Very descriptive and interesting book. I was so involved with the characters, especially Edgar. Loved the suspense near the end of the book.
Tessa B C
Journey to the River Sea by Eva Ibbotson
Maia is an orphan in London in the early 1900s who is sent to live with distant relatives on their rubber plantation in Brazil. What a lovely adventure/coming-of-age story! Maia is a strong female character – intelligent, kind, generous, brave, resourceful and loyal. I did think the Carter family – father, mother, and twins – were rather stereotypical “villains,” but that is a small quibble. This is a children’s book, after all, and I don’t expect the same subtleties that I would in literature written for adults.
Terry
I'm Traveling Alone by Samuel Bjork
OMG, this book is CHILLING! In a nutshell -- 6-year-old girls being murdered by a vindictive serial killer. Two investigators, one suicidal because she killed the murderer that killed her sister, head the unit and are determined to capture the killer, but something happens and...is there a connection between the killer and investigators? Man, this is filled with harrowing details, suspense, and fear. Everything about these characters is believable and will make you want to add a few deadbolts to your door.
Linda
The Red Notebook by Antoine Laurain
This was a sweet and charming, easy to read, English translation of a French novel. No big surprises or crazy plot contrivances, just a nice book to read. My book club all enjoyed it.
Mary Lou
Bury Your Dead by Louise Penny
This is number six in the Inspector Gamache series. Set in Quebec, with some back and forth in the little village of Twin Pines, the story revolves around two mysteries and two deaths. In Quebec, Inspector Gamache is trying to uncover who murdered Augustin Renaud, a local Quebec fanatic who searched for the tomb of Samuel de Champlain, the beloved founding father of Quebec. A second investigation and reopening of the murder investigation of the Hermit in Three Pines takes place as well. It all winds together to reveal the hearts of all involved, and Gamache’s heart is shown to be brave and true. This is a wonderful book, but may not serve as a stand-alone. I would recommend reading the earlier Gamache books before attempting this one.
KC Davis
A Drop of Ink by Megan Chance
It is 1876 Switzerland where five people have gathered at the Villa Diodati on Lake Geneva some 60 years after poets Lord Byron, Percy Shelley, alongside his writer wife, Mary Godwin Shelly, gathered one summer; the year in which Mary wrote Frankenstein. The two others that accompanied them were Claire Clairmont, Mary's stepsister and former lover of both Bryon and Shelly, as well as Bryon's physician, Dr. John Polidori, who wrote "The Vampyre" that summer. The villa's past inspired the two women and three men to conduct a contest to see who can write the best ghost story. Romance, rage, and revenge haunted the halls of this famous home and challenged its occupants. Not a bad tale, but a bit slow at the beginning
Marilyn
The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein
This was a charming read from the point of view of the family dog. Pet owners tend to treat their pets as family members and this was no exception. The insights shared were thought-provoking! My book club also read the book and had a great time with it.
Sandy
The Summer I Dared by Barbara Delinsky
On Big Sawyer island, life is as steady as the routine of the lobstermen who leave with the tide each morning and return with their haul each night. But for 44-year-old New Yorker Julia Bechtel, life and what's important in it are about to be forever altered when she survives a terrible boat accident en route to the island. Now, in the company of her aunt and daughter, Julia finds herself feeling strangely connected to the tragedy's other survivors. Seeing the world with new eyes, Julia vows to embrace life with all of its joys and uncertainties. And the journey begins on Big Sawyer. Loved this one!
Donna
A Portrait of Emily Price by Katherine Reay
Emily is an artist that repairs and restores artwork and anything else she believes needs to be fixed, including relationships. She meets Ben, a man visiting from Italy. They fall in love, marry and move to Italy. She is unaccustomed to the Italian culture and her obsession with fixing goes awry. She learns the lesson that some things cannot be fixed.
Jan
The Noticer by Andy Andrews
This is one of the best books I have ever read. It really makes you see what is going on around you but you don't take the time to notice. After reading this book, it made me see a lot of things in a different light.
Jan
Dear Mr. Knightley by Katherine Reay
This is basically a re-make of DADDY-LONG-LEGS, which I have not read. I loved this book. I originally got this book because a friend of my son's mom is the author. I really enjoyed it. The basic story is she wants to go to college and a mysterious benefactor pays the bill, but she has to write him letters throughout college detailing her experience. She pours her heart and soul into the letters and eventually finds out who the benefactor is in the end. Great book, really enjoyed reading it!
Jan
The Help by Kathryn Stockett
This book takes place in Jackson, Mississippi in 1962 when segregation is at its peak. Aibileen is a black maid who works for a white family. Skeeter is a white girl just out of college who is a writer. She wants to write about blacks working for white families and what it is like and how they are treated. This is a really good book, humorous in parts and unbelievable in parts in how some of the maids were treated. It is definitely a feel good book in the end.
Donna
What to Do About the Solomons by Bethany Ball
Vivienne and Yakov raise their family in a kibbutz in Israel. Yakov becomes an important man in this kibbutz, but this isn't enough to keep his five children home. Their dream is to go to America. Three of the children leave Israel and settle in New York, Los Angeles and Singapore. This is a story of family, secrets, rumors and the attempt to keep the family together.
Lynn W
Under Magnolia: A Southern Memoir by Frances Mayes
A nice story about growing up in the South (Georgia) and then returning (North Carolina) in these later years. Mayes and her husband still spend part of every year "under the Tuscan sun." Are there "characters" in every Southern family tree?
gretchen
A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith
This was a book club selection. It's about coming of age in a poverty-ridden family in the early 1900s. The tenacity of the characters, especially young Francie, proves even in the bleakest times, survival is what makes a person.
Patricia Miller
Truth or Beard by Penny Reid
This was my first time reading Penny Reid and it will definitely not be my last! I loved this book so much that I literally could not put it down - finished it all in one day. It's been quite a while since I've done that! Can't wait to read another one.
Patricia
The Snow Child by Eowyn Ivey
This book was a big departure from the types of books I usually read. But it was recommended to me by a friend so I decided to try it out. It was really good! I particularly loved the picture she paints of what it was like to live in the Alaskan forest at that time. Very interesting. The story is also so touching.
Patricia Miller
It Ends With Us by Colleen Hoover
This book was just ok for me. It was a little predictable.
Judy O.
A Long Way Home by Saroo Brierley
Saroo Brierley was a child in a very poor part of India, scrounging for food every single day and just trying to keep alive. He is suddenly removed from his family in spectacular fashion and ends up 1000 miles away from his home. He ends up in an orphanage, and he is eventually adopted by an Australian couple. He has a warm and nurturing life with them, but he can never forget his family back in India who does not know what happened to him from the time he disappeared at 5 years old. This is an absolutely spell-binding book, and I recommend it highly. The new movie "Lion" is Saroo's story.
Judy O.
The Orphan Keeper by Camron Wright
This is a fantastic book that tells about an 8-year-old Indian boy named Chellamuthu, who is kidnapped from his home, taken to an orphanage, and adopted by an American couple. After several months/years he begins to forget about his Indian family. He tries to tell his new parents that he was kidnapped, but there is too much of a language barrier for them to communicate about this. When he is an adult, he starts remembering things about his life in India, and he eventually has a chance to go there to try to discover his roots. I absolutely loved this book. It is a novel based on a true story. It is also incredibly similar to Saroo's story in A LONG WAY HOME.
Liz
Rosemary: The Hidden Kennedy Daughter by Kate Clifford Larson
This non-fiction book is about the eldest Kennedy daughter, Rosemary, who was mentally impaired. In her early twenties her father Joe allowed doctors to give her a lobotomy, which went terribly wrong. He did not tell any family members he had this done, not even his wife, Rose. Since I knew nothing about this daughter I found the story fascinating, although at times the books was a bit dry.
Lynn W
Nine Women, One Dress by Jane L. Rosen
Easy weekend read, predictable situations, sassy dialogue.
Debbie
Thank Heaven by Leslie Caron
Leslie Caron weaves a funny and poignant story of her life in France, in the ballet, and in the movies. Caron's narrative presents a positive voice throughout every ordeal in life. I have read many stories of the German occupation of France during WWII, and Leslie Caron downplays that era of her life. She mentions long lines for food and a little hunger, but does not dwell on the terrible hardship of the French population. Then on her first job doing "An American in Paris" with Gene Kelly, Caron cuts her hair, and the film production is halted for 3 weeks for her hair to grow. My opinion of Leslie Caron plummeted at that point, but she continues her positive attitude and her enjoyment of her fellow workers throughout the book.
Rachaita
Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins
A beautiful story may not be pictured with people of immaculate personalities, but people with adorable flaws like the tooth-gaped Anna who is actually like any teenage girl with her own foot-in-mouth moments and dreams elevating her on cloud nine. What comes from heart goes to heart. She is a shrinking violet when she is around her Etienne and makes us feel the same butterflies tripping all over in our stomach. Perkins was definitely aware of the fact that the emotions she was generating through Anna was made of the same stuff that transpired through the skin of every simple girl helplessly in love. That friendship gets tangled at some point as we all are accustomed with a Meredith who is deprived and a Bridge who betrays, in our lives.
Vivian
The Girl With All the Gifts by M. R. Carey
The story was gripping. I was immediately hooked. The ending was a little depressing but the book was very entertaining.
Gladys
Read All About It by Carol Rose
Delightful book with only ten chapters so it doesn't take too long to read. She has her set rules for dating guys; he isn't into following rules. Who will win? To complicate matters he is her boss at the newspaper and she is a mere reporter. Her assignment is to date guys who live by her rules. You'll enjoy the results.
Karen
A Great Reckoning by Louise Penny
Armand Gamache, former Chief of Homicide for the Surete du Quebec, continues his efforts to root out corruption in the Surete. He is now commander of the Surete Academy, which has been providing the Surete with some poorly trained officers. He reviews candidate selection and makes a few surprising changes, revises the curriculum and rules, hires new instructors and retains some instructors who were part of the corruption as well as attempts to restore relations with the town where the academy is located. One instructor is murdered soon after the term starts. The hunt for the killer begins, but the process is fraught with misdirection, including a old map which may be a clue.
Patti DeMares
The Circle by Dave Eggers
Good, but long.
Matt
The German Girl by Armando Lucas Correa
A novel based on an actual event. If you read this book, stop occasionally and ask how much resembles what is happening in our present day. Some parts are so emotional I had to stop reading for a while. The chapters alternate between a young Jewish girl in 1939 Germany and on board a ship and her grandniece in 2014 New York. Until later in the book they meet in Havana. The book was translated from Spanish by Nick Caistor. A flawless job.
LINDA
Lapses of Memory by M. S. Spencer
I freely chose to review this book and I like the plot, the people, and the ending! The story begins with Sydney Bellek's first airplane trip with her family moving across the ocean for her father's new post. She was barely five and it was her first flight when she met a boy that would forever change her life. Years later, she retells her story to her daughter who's writing her memories to publish her fantastic story, but Olivia is having her own problems with deciding if she should restart her romance with the rich globe setting Remy de Baumec and traveling around the world and the steady solid Ben Knox, her current boyfriend.
Tessa B C
Dracula by Bram Stoker
Stoker wrote this as a series of journal or diary entries, letters and newspaper clippings. This gives a certain immediacy to the writing, and builds suspense. The novel is wonderfully atmospheric. From the delights of a new culture as Harker first experiences the loveliness of Eastern Europe, to the creepy, skin-crawling scene with the hordes of rats, and finally to the “pure-white” snow of the mountain blizzard, time and again Stoker puts the reader smack dab in the middle of the scenes. But the novel is more than just a horror story. There are several themes which would be great for book group discussion.
Phyllis
Behind Her Eyes by Sarah Pinborough
BEHIND HER EYES is a novel of a love triangle and obsession. Louise is in an affair with David but becomes friends with Adele. Who is telling the truth and who is lying about the marriage? Louise is manipulated in a subtle, clever manner, but by whom? BEHIND HER EYES is full of twists. The storyline alternates between then and now, and Louise and Adele, and with clever deceit and manipulation, flows easily. The characterizations are excellent. When I started reading, I thought I knew what the book was about but when I read the finish, I thought “what just happened?” BEHIND HER EYES is a stunning psychological thriller. I received an advance reading copy from the publisher to review.
Barbara
Take Me With You by Catherine Ryan Hyde
The story is in two parts. Recent divorced teacher August typically spends his summer travelling to state parks in his RV, but this summer his trip will be used to sprinkle some of his late son's ashes in memorable places. Unfortunately, his RV breaks down. Fortunately, the repair leads to a remarkable change in his life, as he develops a closeness to two young brothers. Later in life, they return the favor of their first summer, engaging him in another RV trip. Both summers lead them all to a greater understanding of themselves and to their families. Story is artfully done, with some particularly beautiful passages. Our book club held a great discussion. Recommended.
Patricia
Without You, There Is No Us by Suki Kim
I learned how repressive life is in this memoir detailing the author's stay in North Korea as a teacher in a university during the dictator's reign.
LaDonna Carrington
Hidden Figures by Margot Lee Shetterly
An informative book about African American Women who were Mathematicians at West Computers at Langley Virginia. They were helping America dominate aeronautics, space technology and computer technology.
Lani
Hillbilly Elegy by J. D. Vance
A timely and important book to help understand the undercurrents of this contentious election and make us more aware of the trials and tribulations of the hillbilly south.
Betty
Bettyville by George Hodgman
For anyone caring for an aging parent, this book hits home. It also gives insight to how hard it is to "fit in" when one is perceived as different. At times poignant and at others downright "laugh-out-loud" funny, the setting is small town Missouri and the inhabitants are accurately depicted. I was sorry to finish reading this well-written memoir.
Debbie
Long Black Veil by Jennifer Finney Boylan
A very shocking and disturbing book. The narrator shimmers under the black veil disclosing secrets, but waits a long time before relating what the veil hides. Eight people enter the old, semi-closed Eastern State Penitentiary, but only seven people walk out of the prison after a harrowing night. The infamous night happens in August 1980, and now 35 years later in 2015, a skeleton has been found. Jennifer Finney Boylan's story jumps from 1980 to 1987 to 2015, and explores the seven friends and their hopes and dreams. Are we all hiding under a black veil waiting for chance to lift the veil and allow our true self to shine? The story explores loneliness and uncertainty, but never enters that dark world of self-loathing.
Sheryl
Fatal by John Lescroart
Mr. Lescrart's stand-alone thriller is a hit! There wasn't a dull moment; from the very first chapter to the very end it kept me spellbound. The characters were extremely complex and developed, set in the rich and affluent San Francisco Bay area and you have a winner in your hands. This is one of the best books I've read in a while.
Courtney
Geek Love by Katherine Dunn
I absolutely loved this book, but it did take me quite some time to get through. The author has created this magically freaky world that you just don't want to leave. Arty's freaky followers were kind of a hard pill to swallow. I've never read anything quite like GEEK LOVE. It's a healthy dose of freakshow live, carny atmosphere and the pure...dysfunction that surrounds every family. This book is written intelligently and does not hold back one bit. I loved Chick and I hated the way the family came to their untimely demise. Some parts of the book were a little wordy and therefore boring at times. Oly is a champ and I wish we got to witness her telling Miranda the story of her conception. Dunn writes an unbelievable story, vividly.
Gail
A Change in Altitude by Anita Shreve
I have read many of Anita Shreve's books and usually loved them and couldn't put them down. However, the storyline and the characters of this story did not grab me. The story takes place in Kenya with two young Americans, Dr. Patrick and his wife Margaret, who does not have a work visa but takes photographs and sells them freelance to stay legal. With some friends they decide to climb Mt. Kenya and a terrible tragedy happens that affects the course of their lives.
Linda
Hush by Jacqueline Woodson
A well-told tale of a family, originally living in Colorado, who move into the witness protection program. Difficult on the surface because of leaving friends and family behind and learning to answer to new names. This proves to be especially difficult for teenagers. Woodson does a marvelous job to give voice to the concerns of the young women in this story.
LINDA
Amie and the Child of Africa by Lucinda E. Clarke
I freely chose to review this book and although the plot was intriguing, but I was so sad that the book was a continuation with 287 pages and I only read 5 pages about Amie and Ben who lived over seven thousand away but had come the same conclusion about their education, and now I want MORE!! Will Amie get free of her African cell? How did she get there and what had she done?
Harriet
A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman
Wonderful characters, a moving tale of a lonely bitter man rediscovering happiness with the help of neighbors and a scruffy cat.
Sandra
Cold Girl by R. M. Greenaway
This is a great mystery set in Northern British Columbia. I loved the characters and hope it will become a series.
Linda
Lillian Boxfish Takes a Walk by Kathleen Rooney
I was eager to read this book and was fortunate to be able to receive an e-ARC to be able to read it pre-publication. I adored this woman (Lillian) and the way the author (Kathleen) was able to make Lillian real to me. I underlined so many lines that I found either profound or lyrical. Kathleen Rooney turns many new phrases. She does not rely or even lean on trite or mundane.
I will read this book over and over and over again. The book is based on a woman, Margaret Fishback, who did work in PR at Macy's during the late 1920s and 30s. Thank you St. Martin's Press for allowing me the joy of this read.
Connie
Take Me With You by Catherine Ryan Hyde
Loved the surprises along the way and the interactions between the adult and the two boys, the personalities of the two boys, and how Henry came out of his shell as the story progressed.
Jill
Orphan #8 by Kim van Alkemade
Loved this book. Rachel Rabinowitz was subjected to horrendous medical experiments in an orphanage in New York. Based on true story. We are going to read this in my book club.
Dolores
A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman
I didn't enjoy this book. He looked like Charlie Chan, complained about everything, and tried to kill himself.
Pam
The Pilot's Wife by Anita Shreve
I loved listening to this book as I traveled to and from Austin to visit my son for Christmas. The pace was easy to keep up with as I drove along and I really liked the main character. She loved her husband even when she discovered things about him which were shocking.
Barbara
Lilac Girls by Martha Hall Kelly
Read and discussed with our book club. Everyone especially liked the fact that, although categorized as historical fiction, it was based on real people. We were amazed at how much, prior to reading the book, we had never heard about World War II. Very informative and interesting.
Sharla
Shrill by Lindy West
This book was a series of short essays, some of which resonated with me far more than others. I found the early chapters whiny and unfunny. As I continued reading I came to admire West's ability to craft an argument based on sound reasoning and logical principles rather than emotion. I was bothered throughout by her use of vulgar language. All in all, a mediocre start to my 2017 reading list.
Judy
Ready Player One by Ernest Cline
This futuristic story of life in OASIS has some definite charms as the hero, and heroin, and his friends seek the lost egg, the key to a fortune. Can't imagine what it would be like to live in an imaginary world... If you are looking for adventure, try reading this book!
Betty Jo
The Gifts of Imperfection by Brene Brown
Wonderful way to start 2016 with a message of being who you are.
Kathy Patton
The Sleepwalker by Chris Bohjalian
Exciting and interesting book from start to finish!!
Deborah Smith
The Whole Town's Talking by Fannie Flagg
This book begins in a small town in Missouri in 1889. The town has been started by Swedish immigrants. The man who began the settlement gets a mail order wife and they truly love each other. It's a sweet story about a town changing as the years pass by, along with the town folks. It also is about life and afterlife. It ends in 2021. I love every book Fannie writes. They are wholesome and reminiscent of times past.
Bev
Blue Moon by Wendy Corsi Staub
Another thriller that takes us back to Mundy's Landing and the Sleeping Beauty Murders. Love this author! Looking forward to her next one of this series, BONE WHITE.
Bill
The Seventh Plague by James Rollins
Fact mixed with fiction, well done. Relevant to today's new discoveries of ancient discoveries stumbled onto with terrible outcomes. Scientists unleashing unthinkable things justified by their irrational thoughts and dreams. As this book unwinds the reader sometimes wants to jump ship as the outcome looks too scary. Had to take out the world map and track down the places in the story. Good writing. Great characters. President trumps uncle, can life get any wilder?
Izella Cadwallader
Tulip Fever by Deborah Moggach
Loved the book! It kept me in suspense and I could hardly wait to find out what happened in the end. Have read other books about Holland and their tulips and found this very interesting.
Andrea
Small Great Things by Jodi Picoult
A compelling story that causes the reader to truly look inward and reflect on their views racism, privilege and values. The playing field must be leveled for all human beings.
Joanne Q. Gagliardi
This Time Together: Laughter and Reflection by Carol Burnett
Needed a light read after Jodi Picoult's latest. This was just right. Burnett shares funny, poignant and some sad stories of her show-biz life.
Sandy
By a Spider's Thread by Laura Lippman
I love this author and this one did not disappoint! Mark Rubin claims he and his beautiful wife had a happy, flawless marriage. Yet one day, without warning, Natalie gathered up their three children and vanished. The police can't do anything because all the evidence indicates she left willingly. So the successful Baltimore furrier turns to private investigator Tess Monoghan.
Betty
Our Endless Numbered Days by Claire Fuller
A story that will stay with you for a long time. Fuller is able to pull off the plot twist effortlessly.
Linda Asmussen
House of Earth by Woody Guthrie
From a historical aspect I would rate this short novel higher. I am, however, rating it on the impact it had on me as a novel. It gives a good depiction of the dust bowl and the dialog is true, as Guthrie lived in the Texas panhandle. This voice is equally evident in the characters' thoughts, as well as voices. Historically, the setting is the star of the novel. For me, the most salient aspects were relationship between Tike and Ella Mae. The depth of their love and marriage is depicted more in their thoughts and reaction to their circumstances. Ella Mae is the stronger of the two. Although the novel starts with a graphic love scene, a rarity for the forties in print, the love plays out more completely in their day to day lives.
Cheryle
'Tis by Frank McCourt
This follow-up to ANGELA'S ASHES continues the life story of an Irish immigrant as he experiences America. This installment features the struggles he encounters adapting to American life and its people.
Cheryle
Say No More by Hank Phillippi Ryan
I have read all of this author's books and always find a fresh story.
Cheryle
The German Girl by Armando Lucas Correa
Interesting novel based on true historical events. What was interesting to me was the Cuban element. Most novels set in this time period are only set in Germany. This past year I have read several WWII novels set partially elsewhere.
Cheryle
Two by Two by Nicholas Sparks
This novel set from the male perspective of divorce was interesting, but the element that brought it up a notch was the ending with the sister. I don't want to say more for those who haven't read it. Just have plenty of tissues handy.
Donna
Behind Her Eyes by Sarah Pinborough
I couldn't put the book down. My head was spinning when I finished reading it. I had several scenarios of what was going on while reading this novel, only to have them destroyed and changed. I NEVER could have come up with how it ended. A bizarre love story that was beyond my imagination.
Susan
The Seasons of the EmmaLee by Michael Lindley
This book has everything romance and mystery. I am from Michigan and it is set in northern Michigan, so it really held my interest.
Donna
Of Stillness and Storm by Michele Phoenix
Sam, after 10 years of marriage, believes he's received God's call to be a missionary in Nepal. He uproots his wife, Lauren, and a 10-year-old son, Ryan, from their comfortable life in the States to this third world country. Their new life and living conditions are extremely difficult. Added to this, Sam is away from his family three weeks out of every month. He does understand that Lauren and Ryan are miserable and their family is dissolving. I believe this story is an enlightening view of the trials faced by missionary families.
Lori
Just Mercy by Bryan Stevenson
A sad but fascinating look at the capriciousness and unfairness of the criminal justice system.
Emily
Pompeii by Robert Harris
Excellent writing, meticulous historical research. Suspenseful story about the eruption of Mount Vesuvius and the impact on the surrounding communities.
Linda
The Complete Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi
Powerful memoir of a young Iranian brought up to think for herself. Satrapi's upbringing was surprising to me - 180 degrees from what I would consider a typical Iranian family. She was sent to Austria when she was fourteen so she would be safe through the tumult of her country. It wasn't always easy while she was abroad. It wasn't easy when she returned and continued to make choices that she could freely in Austria, but would get her in trouble as the government became more and more restrictive. This type of book is the reason I read. It takes me to worlds that I will never experience other than through pages.
Donna
Guilty Minds by Joseph Finder
I enjoy Finder's character Nick Heller and have read most of his books. Always some good twists, although I had this one figured out.
Margaret
Behind Her Eyes by Sarah Pinborough
This novel is so carefully plotted, has plenty of intrigue, is dark and twisted, and what a page-turner! There are three protagonists: a married couple, Adele and her psychiatrist husband, David, and Louise, David's secretary. A love triangle is at the core of the story but there is so much more going on. Chapters alternate between the viewpoints of Adele and Louise with an occasional chapter titled THEN, LATER, NOW and finally at the end, AFTER. It's easy to determine when past things have happened or what is going on presently. There's an easy flow due to the author's ability to keep you guessing. I had a hard time handling the unbelievable ending. I reread it and still cannot wrap my head around it. Thanks to Flatiron Books for an ARC.
LINDA
Christmas Comes to Main Street by Olivia Miles
I freely chose to review this book and fell in love with Kara! The only part that I did not like was I wanted MORE! Kara Hasting was living her dream by owning a bakery shop in her small town. She the only one working at her shop as she just got in the black and hoped she didn't speak too soon agreeing to bake cookies for the Christmas Festival. Her younger sister that made her festive mood turn sour. Nate Griffin is only in town for the holidays since he gifted his parents a cruise, and he felt bad that he had not visited his aunt in a long time, but he had a job in the big city. He drove through the town and saw how decorative it was, but he wasn't about to get hooked on the season...but then he met Kara.
Sue
Why Zebras Don't Get Ulcers by Robert M. Sapolsky
A comprehensive examination of the causes of stress and its relationship to physical disease and illness. And, most important, the author presents ways in which the readers can deal with stress to ameliorate its impact. Complex concepts are presented clearly and easily understood. Enough humor to maintain reader engagement.
Jill
Mathilda Savitch by Victor Lodato
I will never forget the main character of this book, the aforementioned Mathilda Savitch of the title. She's a somewhat eccentric, inquisitive 12-year-old who seeks the truth behind her older sister Helene's death. She is determined that her family should find closure and move on with their lives, as both parents are awash in their grief. She doesn't necessarily like what she finds out, but she emerges more mature and wiser by the story's end. There are entertaining side stories involving her best friends, Kevin and Anna. Lodato perfectly captures Mathilda's inner voice and introduces us to a truly memorable character.
CAROL
The Lost City of the Monkey God by Douglas Preston
Non-fiction that reads like fiction. A fascinating account of a search for a lost city in the jungles of Honduras.
Sandi
Underground Airlines by Ben H. Winters
Victor/Jim/Brother is a contracted, owned bounty hunter, a tracker, by any and all names. He is a black man, forced into hunting black men. This is set in the present day. The catch is that our present day is not as we know it to be. The Civil War never took place, and even though slavery was finally abolished, there are still four states in the United States, called the Hard Four, that still condone and practice slavery. This story relates one such case for Victor, tracking a runaway slave, and then the twists begin. The writing moved along very well as it describes our changed but present day. Under this new framework, the characters are believable and the plot viable.
Fran
And Then There Was One by Patricia Gussin
It took me a few chapters to really get into this kidnapping story, but once I did I was glued to the pages. Great characters, smooth writing, interesting plot and lots of suspense.
Diane
A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles
Our book group decided this was the best book we have read in 2016. I read it a second time as I was the presenter, and I enjoyed it even more the second time around.
Debbie
Love Lies Bleeding by Susan Wittig Albert
Sometimes I enjoy China Bayles, and this stood as a time I enjoyed the antics of China and her friends. Males play secondary roles to the friendship among the women in these stories. Of course, one must not discount the mouth-watering recipes and constant mention of foods and herbs. China has decided to accept McQuaid's next proposal of marriage. Unfortunately crime jumps into the path and McQuaid has not thrown out another proposal. As China ponders building a tearoom, some desperados invade the quiet town of Pecan Springs, and China and Ruby must investigate a suicide, possible murder. Susan Wittig Albert keeps the mood light and jumping around just like those Hot Lip cookies that Ruby dispenses.
Lynda
The Paper Menagerie and Other Stories by Ken Liu
I'd never had much interest in learning much about Korea or the people who live there; watching old episodes of M*A*S*H was the limit of my education. Having read this magical (and at times frightening) collection of stories, I want to find more Korean authors and books about the two countries, the divide between them that keeps family apart. That said, this is not exactly a history of the two countries as it is a sci-fi-ish collection of strange stories, which becomes even stranger when you realize that a lot of what seems the most unreal is based on true stories smuggled out of North Korea and vehemently denied by the leaders if they speak of it at all.
Thomas
Turbo Twenty-Three by Janet Evanovich
I enjoyed reaading this book very much.
Betsy
Behind Her Eyes by Sarah Pinborough
I received the book as an ARC from the publisher. It lived up to its hype. I paper clipped the last few chapters so I wouldn't cheat. The ending was not what I expected. It was a thrilling read from the beginning. If you like surprises, please read it.
Francisca E B
Anne's House of Dreams by L. M. Montgomery
What I love about these books is Anne, herself. She’s so optimistic and friendly, with good common sense, a kind heart, and a generous spirit. She is no stranger to trouble and heartache, and this book definitely includes some heart-wrenching events. I love the young woman she has become.
Lynn W
A Paris Apartment by Michelle Gable
April Vogt, Southeby's Continental furniture expert, opens the apartment that's been shuttered for 70 years. While it's crammed with valuable antique furniture, the story is really about the Boldini painting of the owner, Marthe de Florian, and the journals she left behind. This book is historical fiction; the apartment is real and the painting sold for 2.1 million euros. Do look up the painting, and others by Boldini, while reading.
Kay
In the Woods by Tana French
A true thriller that keeps you guessing at every twist and turn!
Nicolette Bonzani
The Trespasser by Tana French
I waited forever for this book. I've been following Tana French since IN THE WOODS in 2007. Drawn in by the way she enlivened the characters, painted the Irish scene, I anxiously awaited the next book in this Dublin Murder Squad series every time. THE TRESPASSER is #6, my lucky number. But this installment left me feeling shorted. One of the reasons I follow this series so closely is because of the unique people and environments that seem to come alive as the story unfolds; a peek into their culture. Unfortunately, this novel seemed lacking in this. There wasn't a place to get attached to. This meant that the characters had to really hold the story. They pulled their weight, but the complete picture was still missing for me.
Nicolette Bonzani
All the Ugly and Wonderful Things by Bryn Greenwood
This is one of those books that popped up everywhere in 2016. I'm not sure why, but I never even read a synopsis on it. However, when it came across my feed as Book of the Month's 2016 Book of the Year, I decided I'll give it a go. I still didn't read a synopsis first...sometimes it's better if you have no idea what to expect. And I didn't. I didn't have any idea what to expect, and this only turned into me not having any idea what to think once I started in on this heartfelt story. Is this relationship wrong? Is there something about these two that make their relationship somehow right? The story made me feel caught in the middle. So many perspectives - which one holds the truth? Who is it that gets to decide what the truth really is?
Marcia
When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi
A heartbreaking story but so wonderful in the telling. Paul's wife writes an epilogue that added so much to Paul's story. I knew I would cry while reading it and I'll read it again.
Linda
The Gunning of America: Business and the Making of American Gun Culture by Pamela Haag
I would give this book 3.5 stars. The book is very true to its title, but not to my expectations. The author told the history of guns in America and a lot about Winchester's history. I was hoping for more about the divide between NRA and others who hold opposite thoughts about gun ownership. All in all, still very interesting.
Ilene
Commonwealth by Ann Patchett
Beverly and Fix are married with two daughters. Bert is married to Theresa and they have two sons and two daughters. Beverly and Bert have an affair and divorces follow. Beverly and Bert marry and relocate to Virginia with all six kids. The novel goes into how the six children interacted with each other, particularly their coverup of a deadly accident. The story tells the effect this living arrangement had on these kids, even into adulthood.
Carol Elliott
The Wrong Side of Goodbye by Michael Connelly
Michael Connelly is simply one of the best! His books are well researched and Bosch is such a wonderful character. I could hardly put the book down. If only he could write faster!
Tessa B C
The Dinner by Herman Koch
In an oh-so-fashionable restaurant in Amsterdam two couples meet for dinner. I was completely fascinated by the psychological nuances explored in these two couples. Over the course of this meal they dance around the very serious situation their sons have gotten into. Emotions are triggered, and just as quickly suppressed. I can hardly wait for my F2F book group discussion!
Liz
The Barrowfields by Phillip Lewis
Henry's father is a literary genius who was raised in a backwater town in the Appalachian mountains. When his mother becomes ill he must return home with his pregnant wife. Henry is born and raised there. A tragedy befalls the family and Henry's father cannot cope. When it is time for home to go to college he goes, leaving his beloved sister behind. He does not return for several years. Henry does go back years later and tries to come to terms with his past. Although it is very well written, I found some of the wordage to be very pretentious. I did not like the cover at all.
Phoebe
The Book That Matters Most by Ann Hood
Hearing the books the members of the club found most meaningful in their lives was most interesting as we each select a book for our hosting month (for the past 15 years!)
LINDA
Avenge Me by Maisey Yates
I freely chose to review this book and I HAVE to read the rest of the series!! I loved the fact that Katy Michaels sought revenge on the powerful Jason Treffen to crumble his dirty empire and get justice for her sister. She alone plotted to bring his sordid kingdom down and save every woman she could. Sarah thought she had no choice to end the abuse. Austin Treffen and his two friends were born to privilege, but they tried to not think about what happened ten years ago. Once Austin received the letter that confirmed his father's involvement that forced Sarah Michaels to choose the only way out she thought she had, he was appalled by his selfishness and he vowed to shock the New York elite.
Marsha
The Forgotten Girl by David Bell
When our protagonist opens the door, it is his long lost sister who has battled her drinking problems. She leaves her daughter for safekeeping and disappears again. All this goes back to his high school graduation and the mysterious disappearance of his best friend with whom he had a fight that night. Gradually, all these things come together in a very thrilling read.
Phyllis
The Lonely Hearts Hotel by Heather O'Neill
Rose and Pierrot were left as babies at a Montreal orphanage during the depression. As they grew, they developed a close bond to each other and also began displaying great talents; Pierrot as a piano prodigy and Rose as a dancer and comedian. The Lonely Hearts Hotel follows Rose and Pierrot through separatation, reuniting, love, dreams, hardship, addiction and fame. The narrative is melancholy but lyrically magical filled with delightful descriptions of hotels, performers, good and bad characters and, most of all, the lives of Rose and Pierrot. The Lonely Hearts Hotel is comical, heartbreaking, haunting and overall wonderful. I received an advance reading copy through Penguin’s First to Read program in exchange for an honest review.
Betty
Behind Her Eyes by Sarah Pinborough
Wow! This book took me on a thrilling ride. I just finished it and am still trying to process that ending. Mind-blowing! If you loved GONE GIRL, THE GIRL ON THE TRAIN, and BEHIND CLOSED DOORS, you will love this one. I assure you that NOTHING is as it seems.
Donna
We Are Unprepared by Meg Little Reilly
Pia and Ash move from New York to a small town in Vermont to start over with their marriage. The weatherman broadcasts that a superstorm is building along the east coast and will cause mega destruction. The residents become fearful, paranoid and obsessive with this news. Rather than working together, neighbors become divided over how to prepare. This fear invades Pia and Ash's marriage. The storms arrive and things are worse than predicted.
Debbie
The God of Animals by Aryn Kyle
The story centers on a young girl, about 12-years-old, attempting to understand her world. Alice Winston lives in Colorado, on a horse farm with her parents. Alice's mother remains hidden in the bedroom and very seldom ventures out of this cocoon. Alice's older sister has eloped with a rodeo cowboy, and Alice spends every day helping her father run their shabby horse farm. Aryn Kyle presents a vivid story of the trials and joys of horsemanship, but the story turns to despair at every turn. I felt trapped in the odyssey of THE GRAPES OF WRATH, minus the eloquent language. Alice develops her first crush for a totally inappropriate male. The ending permeates the book with despair and hopelessness.
Jud
House of Secrets by Brad Meltzer and Tod Goldberg
This is my least favorite of Meltzer's works. The premise was good but the writing was forced and the plot never quite got on track. Meltzer had a writing partner for this book, so that could account for the floundering writing style and lack of plot development. This book was a disappointment for me and I really cannot recommend reading it.
Bonnie
Valley of the Gods by Alexandra Wolfe
Fascinating non-fiction about how young techies in Silicon Valley think, work and live. Covers out-of-the-box thinking, lobbying, venture capitalists, government red tape, etc.
Bonnie
Atlas Obscura by Joshua Foer and Dylan Thuras
Don't pick up this book unless you have a block of time to kill. It's an atlas of some of the most unique and interesting places on the globe. Once you start, you'll have a hard time putting it down.
Bonnie
Night School by Lee Child
While this is good, it's nowhere near Child's best. I think he's now writing them for the Cruise movie scripts.
Francisca E B
Midaq Alley by Naguib Mahfouz
I love stories that feature an ensemble cast such as this. MIDAQ ALLEY is but one of many such small streets in Cairo. The residents form a microcosm of society, and over the course of the novel they fall in love, endure heartbreak, commit crimes, become ill, take chances at new adventures, and simply move on with their lives. Mahfouz’s writing is wonderfully atmospheric – I could smell the bread baking, or hear the cacophony of sound in a busy public square.
Shirley
Before the Fall by Noah Hawley
Wonderful writer, a compelling premise, a slight mystery, and a protagonist you want to know in a sequel make this a book I think about even after I read it and 3 others. Just in passing, it also throws out questions like, "Is time really linear?"
Anne
The Sleepwalker by Chris Bohjalian
Mr. Bohjalian has thoroughly researched sleepwalking and the tale he weaves is mysterious, bizarre and tragic. The characters are interesting as they grapple with issues of morality, lies and suspicions. The events keep the reader guessing "who done it".
KC
In the Great Green Room by Amy Gary
WOW! What a fascinating tale about the life of beloved children's writer, Margaret Wise Brown, who wrote GOODNIGHT MOON among others. Brown often hobnobbed in elite circles including the Carnegies and the Rockefellers. She was a bisexual woman and fell in love with the ex-wife of John Barrymore, a poet named Michael Strange. After her lover's traumatic death, Brown became involved with James Stillman Rockefeller Jr., 15 years her junior. This story is so moving, empowering, and reflective of her time, and it should be transformed to the big screen. Unfortunately the writing was very subpar. I enjoyed the photos though.
Brady
The Magnolia Story by Chip and Joanna Gaines
A wonderful true story of a couple meeting with an almost love at first sight that develops into marriage and a life filled with challenges and success, along with ups and downs financially, and finally developing into a wild success one only dreams about. It was all done with faith that all would work out. Joanna talks and then Chip responds in this feel-good story.
