The Week of January 26th

OuiNikita@aol.com
CAVE IN THE SNOW by Vicki Mackenzie, 5 stars
A wonderful book about an English woman's search for enlightenment which leads her on a journey to live in a cave high up in the Himalayas by herself for 12 yrs.
BOXER'S HEART by Kate Sekules, 5 stars
This is an excellent account of women & boxing. If someone had told me a few years ago that I would not only want to read a book on this and but also find myself totally engrossed with it - I wouldn't have believed them! This is an open,honest, well written account of one woman's foray into a male sport.

JDarln22@aol.com
HOUSE OF SAND AND FOG by Andre Dubus III, 4 stars
The current Oprah Book Club selection. It keeps you very interested and Part 2 has become suspenseful.

Marcavage@aol.com
ANGELA'S ASHES by Frank McCourt, 5 stars
HARRY POTTER AND THE SORCERER'S STONE by J.K. Rowling, 4 1/2 stars
EDUCATION OF LITTLE TREE by Forrest Carter, 5 stars
I'd give it a ten if I could - one of the best books I've ever read.
CHICKEN SOUP FOR THE SOUL by Jack Canfield, 4 stars
THE SECRET LANGUAGE OF BIRTHDAYS by Gary Goldschneider, 4 stars

Jeep4wln@aol.com
A CHILD CALLED IT by Dave Pelzer, 5 stars
THE LOST BOY by Dave Pelzer, 3 stars

Shell725@aol.com
THE SWITCH by Sandra Brown, 5 stars
With six chapters to go, I'd definitely give it 5 stars for Sandra's style, characters, plot, and page-turning suspense.

Showshana@aol.com
"H" IS FOR HOMICIDE by Sue Grafton, 4 stars
Another book in Sue Grafton's series - the reader continues with the adventures of Kinsey Millhone , our heroine, PI and the misadventures she always manages to get into in solving "the crime". Easy light reading, great for the beach.
TWO FOR THE DOUGH by Janet Evanovich, 3 stars
Stephanie Plum - a very modern day bounty hunter- who attempts to catch her bail jumper and manages to have a little romance, intrigue and meets up with a crew of interesting Jersey characters - easy reading - and enjoyable.

EPaton@aol.com
FOUNTAIN SOCIETY by Wes Craven, 3 1/2 stars
I usually try to stay away from his movies because they are too gory. I assume a book cannot be as gory. Time will tell. Slow to start but totally fascinating. It combines science fiction with high technology and even adds some human interest.

bluhrig@inct.net
THE LONE RANGER AND TONTO FISTFIGHT IN HEAVEN by Sherman Alexie, 3 stars
The movie made from it, Smoke Signals, 5 stars The movie is a "coming to grips with the differences between your memories of your father and how others saw him" exploration, very sad, illuminating and funny. The book is a collection of stories about Indians living on the reservation and off, wry and grim, and poetic.

Graham2124@aol.com
ON SECRET SERVICE by John Jakes, 1 star
I have read and enjoyed several of John Jakes books including the Kent Family Chronicles, the North and South trilogy and CALIFORNIA GOLD. This book is not up to Mr. Jakes previous books. The characters are simplistic and cardboard. He seems to have phoned in the book.

Ratacheck1234@aol.com
SAVING GRACE by Lee Smith, 4 stars
TEN THINGS I WISH I'D KNOWN BEFORE I WENT OUT INTO THE REAL WORLD by Maria Shriver, 4.5 stars
DAUGHTER OF FORTUNE by Isabel Allende, 4.5 stars
JOURNEY by Danielle Steel, 4 stars
Tough subject matter well handled
MURDER AT MARKHAM by Patricia Houch Sprinkle, 4 stars

Moonshines21@aol.com
WINTER SOLSTICE by Rosamunde Pilcher, 5 stars
It is a wonderful read for a cold day when you just want to stay indoors and feel a good story.
SOMEDAY SOON by Debbie Macomber, 5 stars
The story is a romance which is always nice to read about when written well and Mrs. Macomber is one of the best!

Spelawten@aol.com
HOW TO KNOW GOD by Deepak Chopra,5 stars
He talks about our response to God in a simple, yet profound way that is easy to understand. I read a lot of books on metaphysical subjects and this book is giving me some new perspectives to put things together. A must-read for Chopra fans!

BFischer74@aol.com
STERN MEN by Elizabeth Gilbert, 5 stars
Very well crafted. What you read is not quite what you get. The story unfolds like a blossom opening. Quirky characters, unexpected twists and turns and oddball situations about lobstermen. Sort of.

Cliffsuss@aol.com
PURPLE CANE ROAD by James Lee Burke, 5 stars
As a frequent reader of books written by James Lee Burke, this is the best. Besides bringing familiar characters for another visit, the story is a fascinating one of discovery - a page turner.

Whimsey03@aol.com
BLIND BLOODHOUND JUSTICE by Virginia Lanier, 4 stars
This is the second of her mystery novels that I have read. I simply enjoy the way she tells a story and her obvious love of bloodhounds and their unique talent.
TALKING TO HEAVEN: A Medium's Message of Life After Death by James Van Praagh, 3 stars
I am fascinated by Mr. Van Praagh's work and wanted to read about his contact with lives that have passed on. I was, however, very put off by his personal anti-Catholic comments. I believe if someone truly wishes to use his gifts for the betterment of mankind, he should keep his personal negativism to himself and respect the belief systems of others whether he agrees with them or not.

karen4191@home.com
MISS JULIA SPEAKS HER MIND by Ann B. Ross, 5 stars
A wonderful read. A fiesty 67-year-old woman, inherits millions from her husband, and everyone wants a piece of the pie. Wonderfully written. If you like Fannie Flagg, you will love Ann B. Ross.
SHOPGIRL by Steve Martin, 5 Stars
This short book is a suprise, I didn't like PURE DRIVEL, but this one is different. I enjoy his observations, such as the phantom cat that lived under the sofa and only made it's presence known buy moving things and eating.

KiTTyCaT904@aol.com
MERRICK by Anne Rice, 4 stars

Phylster@aol.com
PROTECT AND DEFEND by Richard North Patterson
Wow!! What a book. This is one great read to keep you informed of the workings of the government. Mr. Patterson seemed to on the money and time with the Supreme Court workings, I learned a great deal about the confirmations of senators and Supreme Court judges, just like we have today. Anyone who reads this book will not be able to put it down. READ IT!

Joyfuljess@aol.com
THE FIRST TIME by Joy Fielding, 5 stars
This is a completely excellent book. I loved it so much, I had to pass it on immediately to my friends. I really cared about the characters in this book, and was sad for it to end.
THE CASES THAT HAUNTS US by John Douglas and Mark Olshaker, 4 stars
This is a cross-section of famous crimes in history and how the famous "Mindhunter", former FBI profiler John Douglas, would have gone about solving the crimes and who he would have suspected for the crime. There are cases in here all the way from Lizzie Borden to JonBenet Ramsey. It was a very good, fascinating book. Not for the faint of heart however, due to some graphic crime descriptions. If you like this book, I would also recommend "Journey into Darkness" by the same authors.
SHATTERED by Dick Francis, 5 stars
Dick Francis never fails to deliver an excellent story with an interesting plot and characters. This was a very good read.

PianoPJC@aol.com
PRODIGAL SUMMER by Barbara Kingsolver
A truly captivating book. Ms. Kingsolver has a unique way of writing a novel. A book with a story that teaches me something new always draws me. Her background in this book of nature and human beings teaches so much that no one can finish it without having a new appreciation for both.

cfeld@attglobal.net
THE PRINCESS BRIDE by William Goldman, 5 stars
If you loved the movie, you'll love the book. Goldman did both, but the book actually came before the movie.
ANGELA'S ASHES by Frank McCourt, 5 stars
You couldn't invent a story like this. It was heartbreaking, riveting, uplifting, and inspiring, just like you'd expect to read on a book jacket, but it was all true, and the story, too.

JRSchwetz@aol.com
THE FIRST CHRONICLES OF DRUSS THE LEGEND by David Gemmell, 5 stars
This is my second time reading this book. David Gemmell is a genious in details of character. He likes to paint vivid pictures in your mind that leaves you no question with what is going on. The storyline is great. I have read almost all his books. Email with any questions on any book he has written. ps. this is the first book that I have ever read twice.
HERO IN THE SHADOWS by David Gemmell, 5 stars
This is the conclusion (I think) to the best series "Waylander". David went out of his way to make this book like no other of its kind. How do you choose a home for someone like Waylander. What would he do with his money? David could not have painted the picture any more real. It all fits so well with the character of Waylander. and the ending? .....well read it for yourself. Once you get past the first 5 pages in the book, you will have trouble putting it down.

Cfhchurch@aol.com
FROM THE CORNER OF HIS EYE by Dean Koontz, 4 stars
Interwoven story of a gifted boy and his family, a nutcase bent on revenge, and a little girl taken in by the aunt. All of these people eventually meet and how they interact is the thesis of the book. Even though the book is extremely long, it is worth the read!
THE FIRST COUNSEL by Brad Meltzer, 5 stars
This guy just keeps getting better and better. Once you start a Meltzer book, figure on a couple of hours of pure entertainment!
HE CHOSE THE NAILS by Max Lucado, 5 stars
Max Lucado writes about Jesus like he knows Him just a little bit better than anyone else. Great stories about the cross and the life that Jesus lived and gave up for His people.
SHOULDER TO SHOULDER by Dan Reiland, 5 stars
If you want to know how to get along with your pastor or why to stay with your church and not leave when the going gets tough, this is the book for you. Very practical and doable. This stuff works!
CODE TO ZERO by Ken Follett, 4 stars
Story about the space race as only Ken Follett can tell it. This book was especially good because he didn't need to go into every sordid detail with people having affairs like he sometimes has done. He is such a good writer that he doesn't need to flower them up with sex. Great storyteller.

MGree25581@aol.com
THE LOCKET by Richard Paul Evans, 5 stars!!!

Omiabucket@aol.com
BALLYKISSANGEL: The New Arrival by Hugh Miller, 5 stars
BALLYKISSANGEL: A Sense of Place by Hugh Miller, 5 stars
Both of these books are perfect companions to the television show---they follow the story word for word...and Mr. Miller writes in beautiful detail.....if you like Ballykissangel you will love these books.

JLN52899@aol.com
HEARTS IN ATLANTIS by Stephen King, 5 stars
YOUNG WIVES by Olivia Goldsmith, 5 stars

AWillis628@aol.com
ANGELA'S ASHES by Frank McCourt, 4 stars

JHiris@aol.com
ROSES ARE RED by James Patterson, 4 stars
CRY WOLF by Tami Hoag, 5 stars
HOT SIX by Janet Evanovich, 5 stars

PaukertFamily@aol.com
HOW TO KNOW GOD by Deepak Chopra, 5 stars
Very informative book and keeps you thinking about your relationship with God and everyone else in your life.

FaerieBad@aol.com
FROM THE CORNER OF HIS EYE by Dean Koontz, 4 stars
FALSE MEMORY by Dean Koontz, 5 stars
THE LAST PRECINCT by Patricia Cornwell, 5 stars
TIS by Frank McCourt, 5 stars
HANNIBAL by Thomas Harris, 4 stars

Ennapic@aol.com
CLAN OF THE CAVE BEAR by Jean Auel, 5 stars
VALLEY OF HORSES by Jean Auel, 5 stars
THE MAMMOTH HUNTERS by Jean Auel, 5 stars
PLAINS OF PASSAGE by Jean Auel, 5 stars
I've lost track of how many times I've read each one.

GeLLaRoSe@aol.com
WHY I AM NOT A CHRISTIAN by Bertrand Russell
RUSH LIMBAUGH IS A BIG FAT IDIOT AND OTHER OBSERVATIONS by Al Franken
DOWNSIZE THIS by Michael Moore
HAMLET by William Shakespeare
THE TEMPEST by William Shakespeare
THE LOVE LETTER by Nicholas Sparks
A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM by William Shakespeare
OTHELLO by William Shakespeare
THE WINTER'S TALE by William Shakespeare
CINDERELLA by the Brothers Grimm

HKStello@aol.com
THE ART OF HAPPINESS author not given, 5 stars
TRIBULATION FORCE by Tim Lahaye, 4 stars

LDRNTrvlr@aol.com
THE BRETHREN by John Grisham, 3 1/2 stars
Slow to start as usual for him. But, all in all an OK read.
FROM THE CORNER OF HIS EYE by Dean Koontz, 4 stars.
Great story as usual. I couldnt put it down.
THE PILOT'S WIFE by Anita Shreve, 4 stars
Very surprising story with some unexpected twists. Great story for all women.

Liz111338@aol.com
DEATH DU JOUR by Kathy Reichs, 5 stars
Excellent! Liked it a little better than her first, DEJA DEAD. It read a bit smoother and not so much extra detail to absorb. DEJA DEAD is also excellent, I just got lost a couple of times in her descriptives.

ZakasNana@aol.com
RAMSES: THE SON OF LIGHT by Christian Jacq, 5 Stars
MERRICK by Anne Rice, 4 stars
This is the latest in her series about the Mayfair witches and it combines elements of the Vampire Chronicles with the witch storyline. I didn't enjoy this one as much as the first of this series.
BELINDA by Anne Rice, writing as Anne Rampling, 5 stars

Chilly285@aol.com
LEFT BEHIND series by Tim Lahaye
Now on book three. Great reading.

Archdent@aol.com
LEFT BEHIND series by Tim Lahaye
This latest book in the LEFT BEHIND series about the rapture and the last days after the rapture is another one you can't put down. When I get these books, I just can't stop reading them. Tim Lahaye has a way of putting Biblical stories into non-secular terms which are both fascinating and thought provoking. His vivid descriptions and non-stop action, intermingled with the difficulties of romancing in the end times make for great reading. The character development along the way has been excellent. Although my husband started reading in the third book, I don't personally recommend it. Read from the beginning and I think that if you aren't a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ when you start that you will sure have second thoughts about rethinking your religious philosophy afterwards. If indeed you thought you were a Christian before, you might even still find yourself rethinking your motives and asking for rededication. This is a fabulous study of Revelation and the endtimes, from one perspective that I never ever dreamed about. You will be deprived if you don't read this.

SpAcEeDoGx@aol.com
THE FOUNTAIN SOCIETY by Wes Craven, 4 1/2 stars
GOOD FAIRIES, BAD FAIRIES by Brian Froud, 5 stars

MichelleM819@aol.com
UP JUMPS THE DEVIL by Margaret Maron, 4 stars
The 4th outing for Judge Deborah Knott who is trying to solve a murder mystery which entangles her dearly beloved family and her never-forgotten first love from her rebel days.

Amy4mile@aol.com
THE LAST SAMURAI by Helen DeWitt, 5 stars
Marvelous, witty, original.
GIRL WITH THE PEARL EARRING by Tracy Chevalier, 3 stars
Fails to live up to billing.
A HEARTBREAKING WORK OF STAGGERING GENIUS by David Eggers 4stars
Uneven and overly self-indulgent.
DARKNESS IN EL DORADO by Patrick Tierney, 3 stars
Interesting, but questionably true story of the exploitation of the Yamomami people of Venezuela.
THE BLIND ASSASSIN by Margaret Atwood, 5 stars
One of her best.

Menny007@aol.com
THE BRETHREN by John Grisham, 4 stars
Better than his last but not quite as good as earlier gems like RUNAWAY JURY.
THE SKY IS FALLING by Sidney Sheldon, 5 stars
The master is still the teacher, well thought and full of action and intrigue from beginning to end.
AT ALL COSTS by John Gilstrap, 4+ stars
Good action, clever and intense. Nice work and easy reading.
30 SECONDS by Sam Giancana, 4+ stars
A pleasant surprise from an unexpected source, good book to read whether you're home sick or on vacation.
BILLY STRAIGHT by Jonathan Kellerman, no rating given
For those with a wild imagination, but that's why we read. This is a book that will stimulate your mind and acknowledge events from recent years.

TizMe1@aol.com
LEFT BEHIND series by Jerry B. Jenkins and Tim F. Lahaye, 5 stars
This is the best read I've ever had. Once you get to know the characters the story takes off and there's no stopping. One exciting event after another. Each book in the series just keeps getting better and better. It'll have you reading faster and faster. I can hardly wait until this summer when volume 9 comes out. Plus a big screen movie is being made and coming out in early February. The story is fictional about the people left behind after the rapture. Based on the Bible but in a fictional story. It is fascinating! I can't recommend it highly enough and I actually hate to think of this series ending.

Sadiebysea@aol.com
IN A SUNBURNED COUNTRY by Bill Bryson, no rating given
I have just finished reading all of Bill Bryson's books. His current new book on Australia set me off reading all his past ones such as NOTES FROM A SMALL ISLAND, THE LOST CONTINENT, NEITHER HERE NOR THERE. I have seldom read a writer with such a gift for phrase, and a sense of humor that evokes a belly laugh, not just a chuckle. I have been a serious reader all my life and was really wowed by his writing.

CallTrott@aol.com
THE BRETHREN by John Grisham, 4 stars
I felt the book moved very fast and was extremely captivating until the end. I thought the ending was lame where the rest of the book has a sense of belief.
THE MASTER OF DISGUISE: My secret life in the CIA by Antonio J. Mendez, 3 stars
The story line fails to captivate the reader but the information he brings to light regarding the inner workings of the CIA was intriguing.
HITLER'S POPE: The Secret History of Pius XII by John Cornwell, 4 1/2 stars
The secrecy regarding the politics of the Catholic Church and the Pope are as intriguing as the President's role in the oval office. In both cases there is a desire to know the truth and a desire to know that those who serve us are honest and decent. When this is not the case, as in this book, we are put in a position to judge an institution that we may be connected with.

Divine268@aol.com
WHEN I WAS PUERTO RICAN by Esmeralda Santiago, 4 stars
Good insight into the Latino culture, a different way of life for me.

August3366@aol.com
THE SWEET POTATO QUEENS' BOOK OF LOVE by Jill Conner Browne, 3 stars
It is a hilarious book for women on how to get a man to do your bidding.
CHOCOLATE FOR A WOMAN'S SOUL edited by Kay Allenbaugh, 3 stars
Inspirational stories for women, some of them are more inspiring than others.