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Janice Kind (KINDLEELF@AOL.COM)
Acts of Faith by Philip Caputo
Rating: 5 Stars
A timely epic, this is the story of pilots, aid workers, missionaries, and renegades struggling to relieve the misery wrought by the civil war in the Sudan.
Aletheia (vadinpamela@yahoo.com)
Zorro by Isabel Allende
Rating: 5 Stars
Allende is a well-known author for good reason. Her newest novel takes a classic legend and gives it life with a robust history. Containing everything from sword fights and pirates to love and passion, this book will satisfy almost any craving you have.
Yvonne M. (nicholsyvonne@sbcglobal.net)
Last Year's Jesus by Ellen Slezak
Rating: 4 Stars
LAST YEAR'S JESUS is made up of one novella and nine stories about life in Detroit, when car manufacturers were the biggest employers. The stories have a way of intertwining themselves with location --- stores, churches --- and life in general.
Yvonne M. (nicholsyvonne@sbcglobal.net)
Giving Up The Ghost: A Memoir by Hilary Mantel
Rating: 3 Stars
A sometimes slow but otherwise quite readable account of Mantel's childhood and living a life filled with physical pain, psychiatrists, and medications that did her more harm than good. GIVING UP THE GHOST is also full of interesting insight on how she became a writer.
Janice Kind (KINDLEELF@AOL.COM)
Legends by Robert Littell
Rating: 5 Stars
This novel explores the concept of multi-personality disorder --- fascinating.
Nicole (kelley899@yahoo.com)
It Happened One Autumn by Lisa Kleypas
Rating: 4 Stars
A fabulous historical romance that's as good as, or even better, than its predecessor.
Janice Kind (KINDLEELF@AOL.COM)
Blood of Angels by Reed Arvin
Rating: 5 Stars
BLOOD ANGELS was very well written and had a great premise. This was an enjoyable read.
Yvonne M. (nicholsyvonne@sbcglobal.net)
Beyond Black by Hilary Mantel
Rating: 3 Stars
Alison, a sensitive/medium, Morris, her unconventional lowly spirit guide, and Colette, her lonely and critical assistant, tackle life on the psychic circuit and in private. They demonstrate that it's not always easy to live with the ghosts of your life.
Carol (Virginia) (pageant4u@hotmail.com)
Teacher Man by Frank McCourt
Rating: 4 Stars
This is a true story about a young Irish man who leaves poverty and drink in Ireland to move to NYC and become a teacher. McCourt writes about the challenges of capturing adolescents' and teens' interest to the subject being taught. He gives his students controversial assignments, challenges their minds, and brings excitement and drama to the classroom.
Excellent reading.
Sandra Furlotte
On What Grounds by Cleo Coyle
Rating: 3 Stars
This is an entertaining mystery set in a coffeehouse in New York. It's a good quick read with interesting characters. The best part is all the great information on coffee.
Sandra Furlotte
The Cabinet of Curiosities by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child
Rating: 5 Stars
This is a great book for holiday reading. It was so suspenseful that I could not put it down. These guys make a great writing team. Even though the book is 600+ pages, at no time does it drag, and I would recommend it for anyone who enjoys a page-turner every now and again.
Patti
Quentins by Mauve Binchy
Rating: 3 Stars
A nice easy read that takes place in Ireland. The story weaves around a restaurant, peoples' lives, and how small their world really is. Very enjoyable.
Tonya Keener (pcbdolphins@wmconnect.com)
S Is For Silence by Sue Grafton
Rating: 5 Stars
Her best yet!
Linda
Speak ot the Devil by Richard Hawke
Rating: 4 Stars
This is a very good book. Mr. Hawke did a great job keeping my interest. The characters are not always what they seem. You don't find out til the end who all the bad guys really are.
Linda
There's Something About Christmas by Debbie Macomber
Rating: 5 Stars
This romance comedy with a Christmas setting is very enjoyable and very easy to read.
Judy Oswood (joswood@msn.com)
Marley and Me by John Grogan
Rating: 5 Stars
I love dogs, and I love dog stories! Marley is a Golden Lab who comes, as a puppy, to live with a family. This account of the trials and tribulations of living with a spirited dog is hilarious and heartwarming. Marley is named after Jamaican singer Bob Marley, and it turns out to be a perfect fit. Even if you are not a great dog lover, you will enjoy this story.
Amanda Stepro (Mandy41283@yahoo.com)
A Little Love Story by Roland Merullo
Rating: 4 Stars
Though one cannot usually judge a book by it's cover, this one was certainly intriguing... intriguing enough to make me pick up the book by this author I had never heard of. Within the first two paragraphs, we learn the book is centered around a young man haunted by demons of a lost love, a man terrified to love again. However, this book is not an ordinary love story. Jake, a carpenter/portrait painter, falls in love with Janet, a woman having an affair with the govorner, who happens to be dying of cystic fibrosis. The reader gets to watch this quirky couple experience love as they never have before, all the while knowing that the shadow of a fatal illness is lurking in the background. This is not an ordinary love story. Merullo writes in a manner that most men simply can't. He connects with both characters, male and female, and must have experienced these emotions himself in order to get them so right.
China (Blondefairy1975@aol.com)
The Third Secret by Steve Berry
Rating: 4 Stars
This book and THE AMBER ROOM is excellent. THE ROMANOV PROPHESY falls short. THE THIRD SECRET is being passed around to everyone I know.
China (Blondefairy1975@aol.com)
Anansi Boys by Neil Gaiman
Rating: 4 Stars
A good story.
Christopher J Hughes (chris.hughes@Akerkvaerner.com)
Little Angels Don't Cry by Martha Bertrand
Rating: 5 Stars
LITTLE ANGELS DON'T CRY is an extraordinary true story of a little girl being brought up by Nuns in a French Orphanage after being brought out of Vietnam in the 1950's. Superb style and content.
Amanda Stepro (Mandy41283@yahoo.com)
The Christmas Hope by Donna VanLiere
Rating: 4 Stars
VanLiere has done it again! This is her third installment in an inspirational series that began with THE CHRISTMAS SHOES. The author creates characters that the reader can't help but connect with, even if the endings of her stories are somewhat unbelievable. By the end of the book you don't even care! In THE CHRISTMAS HOPE, the reader meets Patricia and Mark Addison, a couple in dire marriage trouble after the death of their son. You watch as this small family grows after a little girl enters their lives. This story shows how the power of love can overcome sadness, and leaves the reader with that feel-good emotion in their hearts.
Ellen Engelking
Lighthouse by P. D. James
Rating: 4 Stars
P.D. James is still the queen of the smart and literary well-plotted mystery. The island locale and wonderful cast of "locals" works as Dalgliesh and his accomplices struggle to balance their work and personal lives. A great read!
Sue Pridemore (bethkit@hotmail.com)
Second Hand by Michael Zadoorian
Rating: 4 Stars
This was an excellent read, especially for a reading group. The catch to enjoying this novel is to prepare to slow down and enjoy getting into the characters. The humor, perspectives and even the "junk" require paying some attention to the subtlety of the writing. The conversations in the book flowed fast and frantic at times, which is completely different from the book! It will not be the last time we read a book from this author!
Carol (Virginia) (pageant4u@hotmail.com)
The Mole People by Jennifer Toth
Rating: 5 Stars
Absolutely riveting! A young woman reporter hears rumors about people living under the subway and train tracks and wants to see what it's like. She becomes friends with some homeless people who take her to the lower depths to meet people who cannot make it above ground. These people have made their homes and friends with "their" kind. "Mole" people conjur up all types of thoughts of freaks, animals, and cannibals --- but they are not. They are human beings who have feelings and goals in their life. It is amazing to think there are oveer 6,000 people living underground in NYC.
This is a must read, full of true stories from people who live underground and how that came about.
LBorg (thelimey2@comcast.net)
The Tender Bar by JR Moehringer
Rating: 5 Stars
An excellent memoir that makes you laugh, but breaks your heart at times. It's the best book I've read since ANGELA'S ASHES.
Ellen Bunch
Bad Boys in Black Tie by Lori Foster, Erin McCarthy, Morgan Leigh
Rating: 5 Stars
This book is part of the Bad Boys series by Kensington/Brava --- 1 of 16 books by numerous authors (L. Monroe, S. Day, N. Warren, D. Kauffman, S. McKenna, E.C. Sheedy, J. Nicholas, J. Summers, J. Denison, M. Davidson, K. Kelley, L. L. Miller, A. Kent, J. Shalvis, S. Carr, R. York, R. Laurey are some of the other authors). It is a thoroughly entertaining series with delightful enticing men in each story, providing a wonderful escape and delightfully entertaining reading.
Ellen Bunch
Savannah's Vision: Book 1 of the Corralled Series by Nicole Austin
Rating: 5 Stars
This western is the first book of a six-book series. The characters were the most compelling I'd read this year. It was like they all leaped off the pages and were in the room with me as I read their story. Ms. Austin does a beautiful writing job with extraordinarily captivating characters. I can't wait to read the rest of the series.
Ellen Bunch
Bad Girls Do It Better: Derailed by Rhiannon Neeley
Rating: 5 Stars
This contemporary romance book is the first book in a 13-book series. It features a hot alpha male, a feisty heroine, and a very, very hot story between the two.
Ellen Bunch
Girls Just Wanna Have Fun by Barbara Karmazin
Rating: 5 Stars
This book is a science fiction erotica and one of the most extraordinary reading journeys I've ever taken.
Ellen Bunch
Dangerous Cravings: Disdain by Kate Hill
Rating: 5 Stars
This extraordinary vampire story is the first book in a 4 book series. Disdain is a completely captivating character.
Ellen Bunch
Polly's Heartsongs: Precious & Few by Bonnie Sue Bradshaw
Rating: 5 Stars
Book 1 of the Heartsongs Trilogy, this is an extraordinary contemporary romance.
L. Hann
Lily Dale by Christine Wicker
Rating: 4 Stars
This was very interesting. If you are into spirtualism, this book is for you. If not, read it anyway and expand your mind! It is definitely worth the read.
Gerry (GerryD8784@aol.com)
The Woman at the Washington Zoo by Marjorie Williams
Rating: 5 Stars
It’s great to begin a new year with such marvelous writing! Subtitled WRITINGS ON POLITICS, FAMILY, AND FATE, this series of essays written between the late 1980s and the early 2000s includes quite a few profile pieces on Washington power figures and several essays focused on family life and child-rearing. There is also a final very touching section on fate, which for Marjorie Williams meant her diagnosis with and treatment for the metastasized liver cancer that took her life at age 42. I marveled over and over as I read that this young woman could be so knowledgeable about human nature, so perceptive in her observations, and so articulate in her writing. Though I borrowed this copy from my library, I’ll soon be buying one to keep, both to re-read and to share.
Rita Carter (gandmari@aol.com)
Creepers by David Morrell
Rating: 5 Stars
Wow! What a page-turning read!
There just isn't a good place to lay the book down! Fortunately, it's a fast read.
Amanda Gillingham
The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafon
Rating: 5 Stars
I picked this book up at the bookstore on a whim, not really sure if I would like it... but I loved it! Every page was awesome. I laughed, I cried, I felt a whole spectrum of emotion from this book. I would recommend it to anyone!
Carol (Virginia) (pageant4u@hotmail.com)
Angela's Ashes by Frank McCourt
Rating: 5 Stars
You can't put this book down. It is a wonderful, heartbreaking memoir of Frank McCourt's life of poverty and despair in Ireland. Without food, money or decent shelter, he and his family make it to a better life. Full of humor and heartbreak, love comes out of pain.
Christina (pictorvia@aol.com)
Opening Love's Door by Diana Kirschner
Rating: 5 Stars
I loved this book. If you are looking for a book to help better yourself, this is it! I didn't want to put it down.
Mario
The House of Paper by Carlos Maria Dominguez
Rating: 3 Stars
This 103-page novella argues that books cannot be the real world or protect us from the real world. The real world is the world of relationships and feelings. It is always out there to shape us and dictate who we are and what must be done.
Christy Hawkes (hawkes@citlink.net)
Slave Castle by Claire Thompson
Rating: 3 Stars
This book is about bondage, submission and domination, which really isn't my cup of tea. Perhaps I'm giving this book an unfair rating because of that fact.
Christy Hawkes (hawkes@citlink.net)
A Hero's Kiss by Jan Springer
Rating: 4 Stars
This is the 4th book in the Hero's At Heart Series. The first 3 books were about the 3 Hero Brothers --- this is the first (hopefully) of the 3 Hero Sister's stories.
Brady Buchanan (bradylee@myway.com)
Flight of Passage: A Memoir by Rinker Buck
Rating: 5 Stars
This is a story of family love (and hate), brotherly understanding, coming of age, and the joy of flying airplanes. I am no flying fan, yet the joy of this book is based on human communications and flying for the novice. A grand read for everyone!
Christy Hawkes (hawkes@citlink.net)
Lord of the Deep by Sherri L. King
Rating: 4 Stars
This is the 5th book in The Horde Wars series and is Tryton and Niki's story. If you've read any of the previous books, you are sure to enjoy this one too.
Rebekah Crain (littleminx@cox.net)
The Autobiography of Santa Claus by Jeff Guinn
Rating: 5 Stars
The perfect blend of fact and fiction, this is a very fun and fast-paced read not just for the holidays!!
Amanda B
Belle Harbor Skeletons by Susan M. Hooper
Rating: 5 Stars
This is a fantastic book by a new author. BELLE HARBOR SKELETONS is the first in a five-book series featuring life partners Barnaby Moss and Arnie Kotkin. The characters just come to life through their trials and tribulations, along with some family secrets and suspense. Susan rates right up there with the likes of Patterson, Grafton, and Cornwell.
Rachael
Snow Flower and the Secret Fan by Lisa See
Rating: 4 Stars
A beautifully-written book.
Ruehle
Memorial Day by Vince Flynn
Rating: 4 Stars
MEMORIAL DAY is a fast-paced book about a possible impending terrorist attack on the US. But, something seems wrong to the operative and, of course, it is. This is another good read by Vince Flynn.
K. Gold
Breaking Clean by Judy Blunt
Rating: 5 Stars
This is a memoir by a woman who grew up on a ranch in eastern Montana, then married a rancher at 18 and became a ranch wife. Judy Blunt is my age --- early fifties --- but because of the isolation of her Montana High-Line community, it would be easy to believe she grew up in the 1920's and 30's. She went to high school at thirteen and had to board in town, far enough from home that she only went home on weekends. She went to a one-room school for all the grades before that. I couldn't put it down.
Christi Sheffield
Life Lessons from the Jungle by Barbara McAdoo
Rating: 5 Stars
I read an earlier review of this book and decided I had to read it... boy, am I glad I did! What a great book --- informative, insightful and entertaining! Will there be another?
Sandra Furlotte
Pompeii by Robert Harris
Rating: 4 Stars
POMPEII is a very good book dealing with the destruction of Pompeii by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Robert Harris has not written many books, but his research seems to be sound and he has the gift of making historical characters come to life.
CJ
Charade by Sandra Brown
Rating: 4 Stars
This is not great literature by any means, but it's a fast-paced combination of thriller and romance.
Gerry (GerryD8784@aol.com)
A Short History of Myth by Karen Armstrong
Rating: 2 Stars
A SHORT HISTORY OF MYTH is a little dry and term-paper-ish. I just couldn't get into this introductory volume of a new series of classic myths re-written for a modern audience.
Gerry (GerryD8784@aol.com)
Dear Senator by Essie Mae Washington-Williams
Rating: 4 Stars
An interesting memoir by the illegitimate daughter of South Carolina Senator Strom Thurmond.
Gerry (GerryD8784@aol.com)
Purple Hibiscus by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
Rating: 5 Stars
Excellent!! This is a very well-written, compelling first novel by a young Nigerian woman now living in the U.S. PURPLE HIBISCUS tells the story of a young girl growing up amid political, religious, and familial upheaval as Nigeria moves fitfully into independence and its citizens struggle to resolve conflicts between modernity and traditionalism. Highly recommended.
Sandra Furlotte
Jane and the Stillroom Maid by Stephanie Barron
Rating: 4 Stars
Many mystery writers have used famous historical persons as the main characters in their series with varying degrees of success. Stephanie Barron's series featuring Jane Austen is above average. This book is the fifth in the series and each book is better than the last. Fans of Jane Austen's books will recognize the landscape and individuals from her novels. A good read.
Annie Strasburg
Snow Flower and the Secret Fan by Lisa See
Rating: 5 Stars
All I can say is wow. SNOW FLOWER AND THE SECRET FAN is an amazing story about the friendship of two women in Nineteenth-Century China. It was my pick of 2005.
Annie Strasburg
The Dark Queen by Susan Carroll
Rating: 4 Stars
This is the first book in a trilogy of historical fiction books that take place in France during the reign of Queen Catherine, The Dark Queen.
Judy Bug
Isabel's Daughter by Judith Ryan Hendricks
Rating: 4 Stars
ISABEL'S DAUGHTER is a heartwarming story of a young woman, Avery James; after years of steeling herself from attachment, she discovers her birth mother, who died in a tragic accident. The story meanders through the lives of those who knew Isabel and relate their tales to Avery. The prose captures the very essence of the Sante Fe art community and the soul of finding out who one really is.
Paula H.
A Vision of Murder by Victoria Laurie
Rating: 4 Stars
Psychic Abby Cooper invests in a fixer-upper house that appears to be haunted by a dead women. Abby works to find out who the lady is so she and her sister can continue restoration and make a killing in the real estate market. A page-turning cozy.
Judy (joswood@msn.com)
A Rip In Heaven by Jeanine Cummins
Rating: 5 Stars
This is an impossible-to-put-down, true crime story about murder and rape in 1991 in St. Louis, MO. Tom Cummins and his two cousins, Julie and Robin, are walking on an old bridge over the Mississippi River when they are accosted by 4 young men. The two women are raped and thrown into the river, and Tom is restrained and is eventually forced into the river too. The two girls drown, but Tom lives to tell his story. Unfortunately, the police believe for awhile that he is the perpetrator. This book takes a deep look into the problems of being victims in a horrible crime. I first heard about this book when I read about one of the murderers being executed for this crime just this last October. It is a gripping, well-written story.
Carol from Cleveland
Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden
Rating: 4 Stars
I wasn't sure I'd like this book at first, but I ended up liking it a lot. This is the story of how a young girl is sold to be a geisha, and how her life unfolds.
Carol from Cleveland
Hard Truth by Nevada Barr
Rating: 3 Stars
I'd give this book 3 1/2 stars if that were on the menu. It's one of the better Anna Pigeon books, and I'm really enjoying it. The villain is a little creepier than usual, but the story is a good one. Anna gets a promotion to district ranger at a new park, and of course, the troubles begin almost immediately.
Mo (maestraw@msn.com)
Ordinary Heroes by Scott Turow
Rating: 2 Stars
I have not read Turow for several years, and this new one did not make me change my mind.
Mo (maestraw@msn.com)
Elsewhere by Gabrielle Zevin
Rating: 3 Stars
I thought this would be a cheap take-off of THE LOVELY BONES. Boy, was I wrong! This YA book is very well written, and flows nicely. It is poignant, yet comical.
Amanda G.
Love Smart by Dr. Phil McGraw
Rating: 4 Stars
I have one failed relationship at college... and my mother decides I need the advice of a professional for Christmas. It is rather easy to read... and it has some good dating advice. However, I believe it is mostly addressed to women in their late 20's to early 40's. The more widely-applicable advice are the the Character of Him and Character of You chapters. It even has some very funny analogies and anecdotes.
J Kaye
The Dream of the Decade by Afshin Rattansi
Rating: 5 Stars
This is the best book to come out of Britain in years. It's punchy, emotional, sexy, and political.
East Bay Reader
The Tie That Binds by Kent Haruf
Rating: 4 Stars
After reading his later novels, I went back and read Haruf's first (published in 1984) and wasn't disappointed.
East Bay Reader
Running with Scissors by Augusten Burroughs
Rating: 5 Stars
Even though I'm already a Burroughs fan (Dry, Sellevision), the degree of dysfunction described in this book makes me feel a little twisted to have enjoyed it so much!
East Bay Reader
Five Quarts: A Personal and Natural History of Bl by Bill Hayes
Rating: 4 Stars
Factual, yet highly readable, the author intersperses his own personal life stories (his partner's HIV struggles, his sister's menstrual problems) with interesting historical and scientific discoveries related to the study of blood.
Linda.H.
The Other Woman by Jane Green
Rating: 5 Stars
THE OTHER WOMAN is another book in which Jane Green ventures into the world of family relationships --- this time between mother in law & daughter in law. It's worth reading, especially if you had read and enjoyed her other books. Jane Green is a very good writer.
Linda.H.
A Walk to Remember by Nicholas Sparks
Rating: 3 Stars
If you had seen the movie you might enjoy this book, maybe. I actually liked the movie more. It is an OK book, though.
Randy Keeney (rakeeney@ charter.net)
A Different Drummer by Nancy Regan
Rating: 5 Stars
This enlightening book seems to carry the hope that Ronald Regan portrayed.
Linda. H.
Match Me If You Can by Susan Elizabeth Phillips
Rating: 5 Stars
I really liked this book a lot. The characters were excellent --- I loved Heath and Annabelle. I highly recommend MATCH ME IF YOU CAN.
Linda.H. (readingissomuchfun@yahoo.com)
Message in a Bottle by Nicholas Sparks
Rating: 5 Stars
I really enjoyed reading this book, and I liked the movie as well.
Becky Cruz (ABamaBecky@aol.com)
An Arranged Marriage by Peggy Moreland
Rating: 3 Stars
This book is #7 in The Lone Star Country Club series. It's good, light reading for the holidays.
Connie Rutter (consurutte@aol.com)
Murder of a Small-Town Honey by Denise Swanson
Rating: 5 Stars
This is the first in a series about Sky Dennison, who is a small-town school psychologist. Her brother is arrested for a murder she's sure he didn't commit, and so she tries to discover the real murderer of someone found dead in her small town.
This book was witty and very well written, in my opinion. I would definitely like to read more in the series.
This is definitely a cozie, though, so if you don't like cozies, I wouldn't try this one.
Jacqueline Sena (esmereldapress@hotmail.com)
Gaia Girls: Enter the Earth by Lee Welles
Rating: 5 Stars
I bought this online "previewed" for my grandkids and I could not put it down! What a fantastic book... all the right values to help the planet, embedded in a gripping story. It even has great illustrations and a website with puzzles and eco-links for kids.
I'm a retired teacher, spend a few hours each week trying to help this beautiful green planet. If you are of like mind, buy this book! Thanks
Nancy Hooyman (nanafanafofana@comcast.net)
Some Things That Stay by Sarah Willis
Rating: 5 Stars
This lovely and lyrical book was a great coming-of-age story about a family that just can't find its roots. Searching for some connection, Tamara Anderson experiments with faith, sexuality, and friendships. A very satisfying ending.
Mo (maestraw@msn.com)
A Million Little Pieces by James Frey
Rating: 5 Stars
I must say, this is one of the best books I have read in a very long time. I resisted reading it because, quite frankly, I thought it would be dark and depressing. Although Frey did not sugarcoat his addictions, nor his rehab, it was not depressing. I recommend this without reservation.
Mo (maestraw@msn.com)
My Friend Leonard by James Frey
Rating: 4 Stars
MY FRIEND LEONARD was a very good book, beginning shortly after A MILLION LITTLE PIECES ends. Frey goes into detail about his life after rehab. This one keeps you on edge, wondering if he is going to relapse. A word of warning --- do not read the recap at the end of A MILLION LITTLE PIECES if you plan on reading MY FRIEND LEONARD. It gives away the plot of the second book.
Emily (blakeek@alfredstate.edu)
The Brethren by John Grisham
Rating: 3 Stars
I liked this book once I got a few chapters into it, but I thought there were some parts that just dragged on. It wasn't my favorite Grisham novel.
Linda Moeller (LINDALSHOT@aol.com)
By the Light of the Moon by Dean Koontz
Rating: 5 Stars
Another excellent read by Dean Koontz! This book keeps you on the edge of your seat throughout. Also, I love the way Koontz accurately depicts the character who is autistic.
Eddie Norris
Undercover Smart by Enoch Mubarak
Rating: 5 Stars
UNDERCOVER SMART: FIVE STEPS TO WORLD DOMINATION NONFICTION is a chilling nonfiction account of real-time events that shook me to my core. The book is told in real time, therefore not requiring quotes or passages from other sources, because what the book details is happening to you and I at this very moment. What is remarkable is that the book will make you commit to changing your life before you finish reading chapter one. UNDERCOVER SMART is a must read by anyone's standard.
Carol Risoldi
Toxic Bachelor by Danielle Steel
Rating: 3 Stars
It's starts out slow but gets better as you read on.
Nancy Hooyman (nanafanafofana@comcast.net)
A Year in the Merde by Stephen Clark
Rating: 5 Stars
This was such a funny, funny story. It's an hysterical satire about a British expat's take on France. It was so original.
Patricia C.
In Golden Blood by Stephen Woodworth
Rating: 5 Stars
This is the 3rd book in the violet eyes series. I love these books. They keep me on the edge of my seat. I couldn't put it down --- I had to see what would happen to Natalie next. I highly recommend this book.
Brady Buchanan (bradylee@myway.com)
A Big Life in Advertising by Mary Wells Lawrence
Rating: 4 Stars
Lawrence is a female dynamo in a field of male dominance who creates a leading advertising agency that succeeds like few others. This is her autobiography of how she accomplishes this, along with the best talent in the advertising world. She gets the reader to understand how a name no one ever heard of becomes a household word... just because of advertising, due to the spending of huge sums of money. This was a good read.
Kathy Talley
The Amber Room by Steve Berry
Rating: 5 Stars
This was an interesting subject for a book, whether the reputed amber room of Nazi Germany survived the war and its aftermath. The author definitely researches history and manages to weave his novel into that context. He takes time to develop characters and plot and fit them well into historical perspective.
Connie Rutter (consurutte@aol.com)
Dark Lady by Richard North Patterson
Rating: 5 Stars
I listened to this one on CD and it was a very complex tale about government corruption, drugs, sex, and the County Prosecutors Office. I found it to be very suspenseful but not a lot about the gory details. The crimes are explained but told and then the book moved on.
I find it very interesting that a man could tell such a good story about a female prosecutor and to have some of the insecurities show.
I liked the book very much and will definitely read more by Mr. Patterson.
Harry Hoover
Done Gone Wrong by Cathy Pickens
Rating: 5 Stars
Cathy Pickens is back with the second book in her Avery Andrews series. This one is as good as the debut. It's filled with great, true-to-life Southern characters, and is set in Charleston, SC.
Kathy Talley
Chill of Fear by Kay Hooper
Rating: 1 Stars
This book drags. The story line and characters are not well developed. The idea of using the paranormal to solve a crime is a fascinating twist, but, in this case, never succeeds in producing a good novel.
Carol (BREEZYWRITER@AOL.COM)
The Christmas Train by David Baldacci
Rating: 4 Stars
I thought this would be a good book to read during the hectic Christmas season --- and I was right. It's a charming little book where you pretty much know what will happen --- but it's fun to see how it gets there. And the author DOES manage to slip in a few surprises.
Rachael
Women of the Silk by Gail Tsukiyama
Rating: 4 Stars
This was a great book. My only problem with it is that the characters weren't vivid and real enough. The author offered very little characterization. If she had developed her characters more, I would've given this book five stars. It's overall a great Asian novel, with a sequel is called THE LANGUAGE OF THREADS.
Rebekah Crain (littleminx@cox.net)
The Autobiography of Santa Claus by Jeff Guinn
Rating: 5 Stars
The perfect blend of fact and fiction presents itself in this wonderful holiday read.
Lynne
Predator by Patricia Cornwell
Rating: 4 Stars
PREDATOR is written in a much more disjointed style than the rest of Cornwell's Kay Scarpeta novels. I was interested enough to stick with it to the end to find out who the culprit was, but it was a hard book to follow. The ending wound up too quickly after a long buildup, but I still gave it 4 stars because of the characters' development and interesting plot line.
Alison
Sleeping With Schubert by Bonnie Marson
Rating: 5 Stars
A wonderfully original story that is very contemporary, with a bit of fantasy --- the spirit of Franz Schubert settles into the body and mind of a woman lawyer from Brooklyn. My whole book group loved it, which is rare. It's funny, surprising, totally irresistible. I'm giving copies of SLEEPING WITH SCHUBERT away as Christmas presents.
Connie Rutter (consurutte@aol.com)
The Third Victim by Lisa Gardner
Rating: 5 Stars
This is the first in a series about an FBI profiler and a cop in Oregon. This fast-paced book is the 2nd I've read by Lisa Gardner. I fear that I read the first one out of order but don't think it was a bad thing. I just didn't know what Rainie had done in her past that caused her to be so dark and brooding. Now I know.
This is a very interesting psychological thriller and has a slight romance in it, but the romance did not detract from the book in my opinion and was very integral to the plot.
Irene Nash
Kiss Me Annabel by Eloisa James
Rating: 5 Stars
I loved this book --- Eloisa always delivers the best story!
librariangrandma
Me Talk Pretty One Day by David Sedaris
Rating: 1 Stars
I rarely stop reading a book, but this one I did. I had wanted to read this for a long time, but found I couldn't stay with it. I did not like it at all.
Liibrarian Grandma
In Her Shoes by Jennifer Weiner
Rating: 5 Stars
My husband read this book before I did and kept telling me how wonderful it was. I agree. I hated to see it end and wanted to still be part of Rose, Maggie and Ella's lives.
Susan
Playing With Boys by Alisa Valdez-Rodriquez
Rating: 5 Stars
This book was wonderful. It is full of humor, drama and life. It is an easy, fun read.
librariangrandma
Angry Housewives Eating Bon Bons by Lorna Landvik
Rating: 5 Stars
I loved being part of this fictional book club and being part of their lives. It makes me wish I belonged to a book club like this one.
Brian
One Shot by Lee Child
Rating: 4 Stars
Another great outing with Jack Reacher. Jack sets out for Indiana when a man he once investigated for random sniper killings in Kuwait does it again, this time slaughtering a bunch of office workers. But the evidence against the man is too good, leading Jack to suspect a setup to fight to prove the man's innocence. This was another fast and smooth read.
Liza
Cast of Shadows by Kevin Guilefoile
Rating: 4 Stars
CAST OF SHADOWS was a great combo of mystery and science fiction. A fertility doctor specializing in cloning is able to clone his daughter's killer from DNA evidence left behind. The killer is never found and the doctor wants to be able to look into the eyes of the killer. Of course, the philosophical and ethical ramifications abound and are addressed in this great read. I really enjoyed it.
Molly Peters (mollypeterslit@yahoo.com)
A Tourist in the Yucatan by Brumfield
Rating: 5 Stars
This was an awesome thriller adventure wrapped in the mystery of the ancient Maya. It's fast paced with plenty of action and lots to learn.
Mia (CA)
Glass Castle by Jeanette Walls
Rating: 5 Stars
I couldn't put this book down. It is a poignant memoir that is at times sad, funny, frightening and inspirational.
Christy Hawkes (hawkes@citlink.net)
Christmas Jars by Jason F. Wright
Rating: 4 Stars
This was a heart-touching short story that will be a favorite of mine every Christmas. It reminds us how small acts of kindness can set off chain reactions and how they can surprisingly come back to you, and the coincidences of how everyday miracles happen. Plan on spending a couple of hours to read this book from cover to cover, and make sure you have plenty of tissues.
Kris
This Year It Will Be Different by Maeve Binchy
Rating: 3 Stars
Uusally, I don't go for short story collections, but the holiday-themed stories in this volume were fun, sad and comforting for this time of year.
Rebekah Crain (littleminx@cox.net)
Night Sins by Tami Hoag
Rating: 4 Stars
NIGHT SINS had a good story line, but the intricate details tend to bog things down a bit at times, causing for a time-consuming read.
Rebekah Crain (littleminx@cox.net)
Full House by Janet Evanovich
Rating: 5 Stars
This book has romance, mystery, and suspense all rolled into one. It's an awesome book, which begins a 5-book series. I just knew I'd love the next 4, so went out and bought them all. Now I can hardly wait to start reading them.
Donna
Visions of Sugar Plums by Janet Evanovich
Rating: 5 Stars
Another great one by Janet Evanovich. How does she turn out so many wonderful books? This is a very quick read --- only 149 pages--- which you can finish in one night. This is one of her Stephanie Plum mysteries. It's funny and it keeps you guessing. Her whole family is just... well, you know --- nuts. That's what makes her books so much fun. Don't we all know someone who has a family who is a little weird? My favorite character is the grandmother. In this book, she has a boyfriend. Wait until you read about Valerie, Stephanie's sister. The Plum family is at it's very best for Christmas.
Enjoy!
Carole
The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafon
Rating: 3 Stars
My interest in this book was piqued by the rave reviews, but I found it to be very slow. Also, many of the analogies were obviously from the present, and not in keeping with the time period of the book. I can only give it 3 stars, and that's a stretch.
Brady Buchanan (bradylee@myway.com)
Teacher Man by Frank Mc Court
Rating: 4 Stars
This book is very good, however, I had to give it 4 stars as ANGELA'S ASHES was superior (it was one of the best books I have read during my lifetime) and was a 5+ rating. The author gives us a grand view of the job of teaching in high schools, from learning the occupation to being better able to handle the youth and their super-charged egos and hormones. He relates experiences of various students in an interesting way, and he explains why he changed schools in New York City frequently until he found one that was much to his liking, due to the absence of much politicking.
Cynthia Knisely (Cynderma@aol.com)
The Lord Next Door by Gayle Callen
Rating: 4 Stars
This was well written and I enjoyed it, but Callen's other novels were better.
Christine
S is for Silence by Sue Grafton
Rating: 5 Stars
Kinsey Milhone is back in style. I enjoyed the spooky feeling of the long-ago disappearance of a woman in a small town. Kinsey talks to varioius people, digging up past gossip and history in the process. The flashback thoughts of people involved made the story even better! I enjoyed the book, but before I knew it, it was over. Now I have to wait another year.
Donna
Hot Flash Holidays by Nancy Thayer
Rating: 5 Stars
If you have never read books by Nancy Thayer, get reading. She is fantastic. Her "Hot Flash" books are so witty and fun, but also sad and charming. This new one, HOT FLASH HOLIDAYS, is a must read. The five female main characters get together again, but this time at the holidays and all sorts of problems occur. But, as friends do, they work together to help each other and enjoy the holidays. As a reader you can relate to these characters and even may think of your own friends in these pages. Enjoy the book --- I did.
Nicole Hulst (kelley899@yahoo.com)
Touched by Venom by Janine Cross
Rating: 3 Stars
This is a bizarre, but oddly compelling fantasy tale. It's not for the faint of heart, but it is rather interesting.
Cynthia Knisely (Cynderma@aol.com)
Wildcat by Cheyenne McCarty
Rating: 5 Stars
This had a good plot and was very erotic. I loved it!
Sandra Furlotte
The Lighthouse by P. D. James
Rating: 3 Stars
I have read every book written by P.D. James. While I enjoyed THE LIGHTHOUSE, it seems that Ms. James is losing her edge. Her last couple of novels have been well crafted as always, but the plot twists are missing. Her earlier books are wonderful and are not to be missed.
Lori Ford (bluebrd35@yahoo.com)
Crossbones by Kathy Reichs
Rating: 5 Stars
I always have loved Kathy Reichs's books, but this one really blew me away. I felt like I was crawling through those caves in Israel and oh, how I wish I could have stood on top of Masada alongside her. If you haven't read her books, pick this one up. If you have, what are you waiting for?
J. P. Feingold
Feng Shui for the Rest of Us by Gabrielle Alizay
Rating: 4 Stars
This book presents an array of practical steps you can take in your home to solve whatever problems life has sent you. I especially liked the red cloth cure, which can be used when all else fails.
Alexis Clayton
Faithless by Karen Slaughter
Rating: 4 Stars
I can't give FAITHLESS a real rating yet because I'm not done reading it, but so far, it is a real page turner for me.
Emile
The Meeting of Anni Adams by Lonnie D. Story
Rating: 5 Stars
After having the time to read and re-read this remarkable work, I am amazed that Mr. Story is a first time writer. I came across this book from an article written about it (Mrs. Adams and Mr. Story) in the Florida Catholic Newspaper. While the book is "self-published" (not for long I believe), it is definitely of much more high value than the stream of traditional work I review on the market at present. Although the book has typos and some re-edit work needed, that should not distract from the overall theme, work and glorious story of an astonishing life of a superb lady developed from childhood. Many young ladies around the world could use some lessons from this book. Many of the forthcoming generations could use the lessons from the historical aspect. In fact, I don't find much that anyone couldn't take profit from in reading this book. I give cudos to Mr. Story and he definitely, though needing minor tuning, has the ability to bring words to life and life to words in a picturesque mental format. I believe somewhere therein lies a poet. But for a first outing, I am sure that his future is bright in the literary arts. That is not to take away from the subject of the biography. In fact, I found it almost difficult to call it a biography because it transcends the boundaries of the "Arch-typical" format. Instead, it comes straight from the heart, to the page and then to one's own heart. A definitely good read and deserving of much, much higher attention against the general populous of uninteresting traditionally published books crowding the shelves.
Abby (abby605@aol.com)
The Wedding by Nicholas Sparks
Rating: 5 Stars
I love all Nicholas Sparks books, but this is the first chance I've gotten to read in awhile, so I was excited to start this book. I really like it so far.
Myrna P.
A Thousand Days in Venice by Marlena De Blasi
Rating: 3 Stars
A food journalist goes to Venice, falls in love with a middle-aged banker, and suddenly, their lives take on a whole new spirit! Add a star if you are very familiar with Venice and will recognize all the places she mentions.
Myrna P.
The Widow of the South by Robert Hicks
Rating: 4 Stars
This novel is based on the true story of how the battle at Franklin, Tennessee during the Civil War changed the life of Carrie McGavock when her house is taken over to serve as a hospital for the wounded soldiers. Carrie's life becomes entwined with those of the 1500 dead who are buried nearby.
Donna
You Belong to Me by Mary Higgins Clark
Rating: 4 Stars
I am hooked on all of her books and can't wait to see if there is a Christmas book this year. This was an exciting read.
Donna
Prophecy by Sylvia Browne
Rating: 4 Stars
I love all of her books. If you like Slyvia Browne, this is another one you won't want to miss.
Noreen Brown (nortomb@webtv.net)
East of the Mountains by David Guterson
Rating: 3 Stars
I've only just started this for my book club. I'd read it years ago but have forgotten it.
Maybe it's just too depressing a theme (so far) for the Christmas season.
Madeline
Half Broken Things by Morag Joss
Rating: 5 Stars
This book pulled me in and would not let go. I was drawn to these characters and while I wanted to know what was going to happen, I almost didn't want to know because I was pretty sure it wouldn't be good. This author's style reminds me of Minette Walters. If you like her work, you'll enjoy this.
Amanda Gillingham
Housekeeping by Marilynne Robinson
Rating: 4 Stars
HOUSEKEEPING is told from the point of view of a young girl who is orphaned with her sister and taken care of by family they've never met before. It's a coming-of- age tale that is told with descriptive distance (if that makes sense). It hooked me with its fluency from scene to scene... but there isn't a lot of action.
Laura (lgettle@iserv.net)
The Gutter and the Grave by Ed McBain
Rating: 3 Stars
This tale of Detective Matt Cordell held my interest. I'll read more books by this author.
Laura (lgettle@iserv.net)
Forever Odd by Dean Koontz
Rating: 5 Stars
This is a very absorbing story and I really admire the reluctant hero. I hope there will be more Odd Thomas stories in the future.
Laura (lgettle@iserv.net)
Grave Sight by Charlaine Harris
Rating: 3 Stars
The action and characters in this novel are just strong enough to keep me turning the pages.
Louise Keene (lekeene52@msn.com)
Beach Music by Pat Conroy
Rating: 5 Stars
I had put off reading BEACH MUSIC because a member of my reading group did not like it. I, on the other hand, think it is a GREAT book. It has great depth in the diverse characters and surprising events that spring at the reader. It's a very enjoyable read.
Carol Hirsh (CLoisH049@aol.com)
She, Myself & I by Whitney Gaskell
Rating: 3 Stars
An enjoyable read!
Karen in Troy, IL
The Day the World Came to Town by Jim DeFede
Rating: 4 Stars
The author shows us that there were acts of goodness and kindness that came out of the tragedy of 9/11. This is a well-told story of those who were forced to land in a Newfoundland town when planes were not allowed in US air space. It's a story of a small town that pulled together to help those in need.
Alexis Clayton
Skinny Dip by Carl Hiaasen
Rating: 5 Stars
This book is a tongue-in-cheek suspense. A man throws his wife overboard a cruise ship, but she doesn't die and comes back with a vengence.
Laura
Mr. Destiny by Candy Halliday
Rating: 3 Stars
This is a charming romantic tale.
Melanie House
Double Cross Blind by Joel N. Ross
Rating: 5 Stars
What a volume of intrigue and suspense! I couldn't put it down. I sat up the whole night to finish the rest of the book because I had to find out what happened. It had a great plot.
Angie (BlindlyBookish@aol.com)
Maximum Ride: The Angel Experiment by James Patterson
Rating: 5 Stars
An action-packed, thrilling, and truly amazing book! It's great for sci-fi lovers, and pretty much anyone!
Angie (BlindlyBookish@aol.com)
The Penultimate Peril by Lemony Snicket
Rating: 5 Stars
THE PENULTIMATE PERIL is surprisingly puzzling and full of plot twists. It is yet another great book in the series.
Angie (BlindlyBookish@aol.com)
The Grim Grotto by Lemony Snicket
Rating: 5 Stars
A fantastically hilarious and fast-paced addition to the series!
Gerry (GerryD8784@aol.com)
Mary, Mary by James Patterson
Rating: 4 Stars
Patterson is back in form after a couple of disappointing (to me) books. Alex Cross, on vacation in L.A., is called in to consult on a serial killing that targets famous and professionally successful mothers.
Gerry (GerryD8784@aol.com)
Leah's Journey by Gloria Goldreich
Rating: 4 Stars
After hearing Ms. Goldeich speak at the recent JCC Book Festival, I was eager to read her first novel, which follows a young Jewish girl from the steppes of Odessa, Russia, to America and Israel, during that tumultuous time shortly before World War II to the years following Israeli independence. Goldreich was a marvelous speaker, and her writing lives up to the promise of her description.
Debbie
At First Sight by Nicholas Sparks
Rating: 4 Stars
This sequel to TRUE BELIEVER is a love story that's a delight to read over the busy holiday season.
Laurie Blum (laurieblum@hotmail.com)
Minaret by Leila Aboulela
Rating: 3 Stars
This first novel is the sanctuary that Islam provides for immigrants who have been stripped of their ambitions. It's very interesting.
Angie (BlindlyBookish@aol.com)
Maximum Ride: School's Out Forever by James Patterson
Rating: 5 Stars
I got an ARC of this book and just finished it. It's FANTASTIC! This book is full of action, suspense, and characters you can't help but become emotionally involved with. Definitely pick this one up when it comes out in May!!!
Nancy Schaaf
The Ambler Warning by Robert Ludlum
Rating: 4 Stars
A thriller from the beginning to the end. The novel begins with an escape from a high security mental institution for former government agents who know too much to be allowed their freedom. The novel follows Ambler in his quest to learn his identity and discover why he is such a danger to unknown people.
Debbie
Teacher Man by Frank McCourt
Rating: 4 Stars
Frank McCourt writes about his life in a delightful way. This book is about his experience as a teacher in New York. As a teacher myself, I am delighted with this story.
Rachael
Women of the Silk by Gail Tsukiyama
Rating: 5 Stars
The writing in this book flows beatifully and I would highly recommend it to lovers of Asian literature.
Coral Harrison
Predator by Patricia Cornwell
Rating: 1 Stars
There are just too many crazy people and plots. I liked Patricia Cornwell's other books, but PREDATOR is not nearly up to her usual standard.
Dorothy Sexton
Red Lily by Nora Roberts
Rating: 4 Stars
This is the third book of the 'In the Garden Trilogy,' but each can stand alone. Haley and her baby have found a home and the love and friendship of two strong women. But, there is a ghost haunting Harper House, where she is living. So, the three women try to help the ghost find peace. This was a hard book to put down.
Nancy Schaaf
Predator by Patricia Cornwell
Rating: 3 Stars
PREDATOR is a good read, although not Cornwell's best.
Laura Ayala (ayalawl@aol.com)
The Lincoln Lawyer by Michael Connelly
Rating: 5 Stars
A very well-written legal drama. Although the plot seemed a little familiar, the characters were great and there were enough twists to keep me guessing. I would definately read a sequel.
Ricki (rickimc@aol.com)
Carved in Bone by Jefferson Bass
Rating: 4 Stars
A great forensic mystery with tons of detail. This is not for the squimish, though.
Laurie Blum (laurieblum@hotmail.com)
Marley & Me by John Grogan
Rating: 4 Stars
Joyfully infectious... MARLEY & ME is a loving valentine to one dog and his unquenchable spirit! This moving story has set the bar high for dog owners everywhere --- woof!
Donna
Marley & Me by John Grogan
Rating: 5 Stars
This is a perfectly delightful book about the world's worst-behaved yellow lab. This would be my choice of Christmas gift for dog lovers everywhere. Grogan's book is filled with stories of the dog's misdeeds and his boundless love.
Lorena Hann
The Memory of Running by Ron McLarty
Rating: 2 Stars
I have one word for this book --- "frustrating." While McLarty is a good writer, as far as breathing life into the words, he jumps from one scene to the next and then goes back in time without letting the reader know. I think the meaning of the book gets lost. I was very disappointed.
Dawn Sherertz (pdshertz@jps.net)
What Comes After Crazy by Sandi Kahn Shelton
Rating: 4 Stars
A light, fast summer read. This book, filled with great characters, gives whole new meaning to disfunctional family. Reading this was time well spent.
Dawn Sherertz (pdshertz@jps.net)
Mr. Muo's Travelling Couch by Dai Sajie
Rating: 2 Stars
This was a hard read after his other one, BALZAC AND THE LITTLE CHINESE SEAMSTRESS. It was totally different.
Dawn Sherertz (pdshertz@jps.net)
The Story of My Life by Farah Ahmedi
Rating: 4 Stars
A very well-written memoir by a young woman who survived the loss of limb to a land mine at the age of 7, and spent two years in Germany recovering away from family, friends, and her native language.
Nunu In Niagara
Blue Smoke by Nora Roberts
Rating: 5 Stars
I just finished reading this book and loved it. I thought it was one of her best yet. BLUE SMOKE was very suspenseful, yet had a romantic element to it. It was hard to put down.
Heidi Kraemer
Faking It by Jennifer Crusie
Rating: 4 Stars
This is a funny, light, escapist read.
Patricia Lewis
The Preservationist by David Maine
Rating: 4 Stars
We wondered how the author could even begin to imagine the event from a "today's world" perspective. It is a beautifully written, informative book about a very familiar topic... we all were happy to read it!
Connie Rutter (consurutte@aol.com)
The Christmas Quilt by Jennifer Chiaverini
Rating: 4 Stars
Even though it rehashed a lot of the stories that I had read in other books, I enjoyed this. The ending was very special because it brought some new elements to light, like a sense of forgiving and a message about what Christmas is really about. I don't know if the books in this series need to be read in order, because THE CHRISTMAS QUILT has things in it that are a part of the others, but they are not necessarily needed to read this one.
I can't wait for the next one in this series.
Bookmomma (Bookmomma@aol.com)
S Is For Silence by Sue Grafton
Rating: 4 Stars
Kinsey Milhone is at her best in this latest entry in this long-running series. She solves the mystery of the long-ago disappearance of her client's mother. She really keeps you guessing!
Jack Quick (jquick5342@aol.com)
The Wrong Kind of Blood by Declan Hughes
Rating: 4 Stars
LA private eye Edward Loy has returned to his boyhood home of Dublin for his mother’s funeral. On the way home from the service, a friend asks him to find her missing husband --- leading to bodies, danger, and a fearsome organized crime gang. Loy is hampered by the fact that the Dublin where grew up is no longer the Dublin of today. To be released 3/06, this novel should please fans of Dennis Lehane and George Pelecanos, as it did me.
Marsha
A Million Little Pieces by James Frey
Rating: 1 Stars
I was revolted and depressed by the description of his misery. Perhaps it is the time of year but I could not finish this book. That is a rare thing for me.
Dot
Salem Falls by Jodi Piccoult
Rating: 4 Stars
SALEM FALLS was a quite a page turner. The characters are very realistic.
Bookmomma (Bookmomma@aol.com)
Grave Sight by Charlaine Harris
Rating: 4 Stars
This is the first book in what I hope will be a long series. After being struck by lightning as a child, the protagonist is able to sense dead bodies. She and her step-brother earn their living by solving missing person's cases. It's spooky, but interesting.
Mary R (bebe431@comcast.net)
Mind Games by Christine Feehan
Rating: 5 Stars
I always love Ms. Feehan's books. MIND GAMES is full of the suspense, romance and mystery that she includes in all of her work.
Mary Alice Pritchard
Grave Sight by Charlaine Harris
Rating: 5 Stars
I was not able to put this book down until I had finished it. The characters are very believable and lifelike in your head as you follow the story line. It is easy to become caught up in the plot twists and identify with the town's citizens and their mixed up social avenues. As much as I love her other series, this one may become my favorite!
Mary Alice Pritchard
In Golden Blood by Stephen Woodworth
Rating: 4 Stars
The rhythm of this book is awesome and carries you along so that you hesitate to put it down. The background is artfully described without sounding like a standard history lesson. I wish you had a 4.5 because it would be a much more appropriate score. The only downfall would be that I had already read the first two of this series and enjoyed them just a little more.
Debra (Debby236@aol.com)
Brighid's Quest by P.C. Cast
Rating: 4 Stars
P.C. Cast writes such different and interesting stories. She has quite an imagination. This one lives up to that. If you enjoy fantasty, this one's for you.
K. Husemeyer
The Patriot's Club by Christopher Reich
Rating: 3 Stars
THE PATRIOT'S CLUB had a great plot and decent dialogue. Reich's previous books were better reads. However, this one make great movie material, and Matt Damon would be perfect for the lead role.
Jon Iverson (joniverson@aol.com)
London Bridges by James Patterson
Rating: 4 Stars
An exciting, fast-paced take on the war against terrorism, with surprises abounding and plot twists to satisfy most readers.
Judy (joswood@msn.com)
My Friend Leonard by James Frey
Rating: 5 Stars
I was so taken with A MILLION LITTLE PIECES, that I just had to read the sequel, and I am not disappointed. We find out what happened to James after he left rehab. Life is still a great struggle for him, but at least he has Leonard to help him, just as he did in the rehab center. Frey writes a compelling story.
Ruehle
The Twelfth Card by Jeffery Deaver
Rating: 4 Stars
This is a good book full of twists and turns, but it gets bogged down a bit with the constant review of the evidence and suspects. However, it's still worth reading, especially for Deaver fans.
Barbara
The North Face of God by Ken Gire
Rating: 5 Stars
Using mountain-climbing metaphors, Ken Gire shows how to preserve hope and faith in God. He offers comfort, perspective and ecnouragement along the way. This book was very insightful and thought provoking. A GOOD read!
K. Gold
Locked Rooms by Laurie R. King
Rating: 5 Stars
The latest Holmes and Russell novel and all of them are good. This one is a little different--not all first person by Mary Russell. Holmes and Russell spend the entire novel as themselves--no masquerades or disguises. They spend an ever-extending week (or two or three or....) in San Francisco, looking over Russell's family home and family secrets.
Sandy (jasscs@aol.com)
Sugar Cookie Murder by Joanne Fluke
Rating: 3 Stars
A light murder and a fun book to read during Christmas. It made me want to bake sugar cookies!
Sandy (jasscs@aol.com)
The Constant Princess by Philippa Gregory
Rating: 5 Stars
I enjoyed every word about Katherine of Aragon. If you like history, this is a good book for you.
Kathleen Evans
Get A Clue by Jill Shalvis
Rating: 5 Stars
GET A CLUE is a fun book to read that is full of mystery and romance.
Judybug
Talk to the Hand by Lynne Truss
Rating: 4 Stars
TALK TO THE HAND contains very quick, funny, and, unfortunately too-often-true musings of the state of manners in today's world. The author gives us "six good reasons to stay home and bolt the door."
Thomas (tomjac0850@charter.net)
The Christmas Train by David Baldacci
Rating: 3 Stars
This was a mildly entertaining book that had more to do with a train than it did with Christmas. Journalist Tom Langdon takes the Amtrak across America to visit his girlfriend and runs into a host of strange characters along the way. I found it easy reading, though not particularly engrossing.
Judy (joswood@msn.com)
S is For Silence by Sue Grafton
Rating: 5 Stars
Violet Sullivan disappeared over 30 years ago without a trace. Her daughter, Daisy --- who was a small child when she went missing --- employs Kinsey to try to find her. Through Kinsey's investigation, we meet all the people who had an impact on Violet's life, and we try to figure out who had a motive to see her disappear. This is another great book in this series with an excellent resolution at the end.
Sandy (jasscs@aol.com)
700 Sundays by Billy Crystal
Rating: 5 Stars
700 SUNDAYS is such an entertaining book! I really have more respect for Mr. Crystal after reading this.
Sandra Furlotte
The Villa of Mysteries by David Hewson
Rating: 5 Stars
This is the second book in a series by David Hewson featuring the Rome police. This book is even better than the first --- it contains lots of historical background and unique crimes, blending the past and present. Mr. Hewson's style is very similar to that of Ian Rankin.
Annette (Bberrycrk@aol.com)
A Redbird Christmas by Fannie Flag
Rating: 4 Stars
I love it. It is just my gentle cup of tea.
Patti DeMares
In Her Shoes by Jennifer Weiner
Rating: 5 Stars
A "wonderful" story of sisterly love and rivalry.
Patti DeMares
A Redbird Christmas by Fannie Flagg
Rating: 5 Stars
This novel is about small town acceptance of a newcomer. A unique story!
Lola S. (lola425@hotmail.com)
Gilead by Marilynne Robinson
Rating: 4 Stars
What a quiet, gorgeous novel. The story takes the form of an aging reverend's "letter" to a young son he will likely not get to see grow up. While ostensibly it is a letter to his son, it is a reckoning of his life as well. The book is not as morbid as my review makes it sound. Robinson is truly a gifted writer, and you will find yourself reading a line and putting the book down for a moment to marvel at it.
Bonnie Margay Burke
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon
Rating: 5 Stars
An extraordinary novel about connections, told from the unique perspective of an autistic youth who can barely tolerate closeness or recognize emotions. Beautiful and moving, this is a story you will never forget.
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