| S. Wright |
| The Fates by Tino Georgiou |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
Best-selling novelist Tino Georgiou offers us a searing epic of Mythological Greece in turmoil. His tale is a powerful, harrowing depiction of Greece, but also a lyrical evocation of the lives and enduring hopes of its resilient characters. This book achieves something rare and beautiful. In the beginning, I was reading the book, wanting to know what happened next because I wanted to know the story. As the book continued, I found myself even more gripped by it --- not because I wanted to know what happened next, but because throughout the course of the book, through artful storytelling, the author makes us care about the layered, flawed and interesting people whose story he is telling. The characters are sold to us so completely that it is hard not to believe that these characters actually exist, and that the story is not in-fact a real autobiography.
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| Kellie (acountkel@bellsouth.net) |
| Sunrise on Kusatsu Harbor by Dan Malney |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
This is a quick and enjoyable read, for the most part, until the end. The story is about two Japan natives who fall in love during World War II. Mieko is called to war but vows to come back to his lover, Tori. While he is gone, the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki take place and almost all hope for a reconciliation is gone. Don’t lose hope though, there are actually happy parts in this book. The problem I have with it is after finishing it, I felt like I was snookered by the author. It was like he set me up to tell a simple fictional story and then at the end, you realize he is trying to publicize his political agenda. Not fair. The idea is definitely unique and it made me stop and think, but it still left me with a bad taste in my mouth.
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| Tarini Bresgi |
| Soulshaping: Adventures in Self-Creation by Jeff Brown |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
A fantastic, funny, yet profound book. Beautifully written and deeply insightful, I couldn't put the book down. It touched me on many levels...from my funny bone down to my core. I resonated with the authors revelations and vulnerability.
I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a little insight and flight.
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| Kellie (acountkel@bellsouth.net) |
| The Water is Wide by Pat Conroy |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
I was really impressed with this book. Not only did I enjoy the story, which is true, but I also enjoyed the writing of Pat Conroy. This is the first book I have read by him. This is about the experience he had in the early 70s, teaching in a one-room school house on Yamacraw Island (which is the pseudonym for Daufuskie Island), an island off the coast of South Carolina. This island was populated by mostly African Americans. The experience was truly eye opening. It really depicted the society of that time: Civil Rights, Segregation, southern culture and its resistance to change. Conroy took a true life experience and put it down on paper in such a way that readers felt like they were there on the island with him. Add to that an exceptional sense of humor that was drizzled throughout the story and you have yourself a masterpiece. I have added all the rest of Conroy’s books on my wishlist and I feel a little bit more with the program after finally reading one of his works.
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| ck |
| People of the Book by Geraldine Brooks |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
Brooks writes so well. She takes little shreds of evidence from an ancient haggadah and creates stories of "what might have happened" to this little tome through more than six centuries. Hanna, the conservator for the book, has her own interesting history woven into her research of the clues found in stains, hair and other marks on the parchment and binding. Brooks has an amazing gift for combining historical facts with imaginative story-telling.
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| Karen Harrington |
| Last Seen Leaving by Kelly Braffet |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
A memorable, sometimes creepy story of a mother searching for her estranged daughter who has suddenly gone missing.
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| T.C. Brown |
| The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time by Mark Haddon |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
I loved this book. I loved how it gave you a look into the world of someone with Autism. It was very funny and sad at the same time. Definitely worth reading.
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| jesuschriss |
| Staying Alive: Real Poems For Unreal Times by Neil Astley (editor) |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
Neil Astley has put together an anthology of modern poetry that anyone can enjoy --- the poetry enthusiast, as well as the average reader.
These 496 pages are formatted into various categories such as relationships, motherhood, animals, life, death, war, and, of course, poetry. In doing so, readers are allowed to easily browse through different sections to find their favorite themes. At the same time, do not be surprised to find that your favorite poems will be found under the least likely sections. These poems are very unique and sometimes shocking.
I recommend this book for anyone looking to acquire a taste for poetry, as well as the poetry reader looking to expand his, or her, experience with new, perhaps little known of, authors.
STAYING ALIVE is, by far, one of the best recent poetry anthologies I've read in a long time. Much praise to Astley for the huge effort in putting together this collection.
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| L G |
| A New Day for Foal by Patricia Heinz Glaeser |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
This is an excellent story for children who enjoy picture books. The story takes children on a trip through the farm where a new foal has been born. A friendly bee takes the new foal on an introductory visit throughout the farm where they visit with the various animals who live nearby. The illustrations are absolutely beautiful and very enjoyable to see.
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| Paula C. |
| The Red Tent by Anita Diamant |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
A difficult book to get my interest initially, but a worthwhile read.
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| J. Kaye Oldner (jkayeoldner@yahoo.com) |
| Alone by Lisa Gardner |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
I read HIDE in 2007 and thought it was one of the best books published that year. When I read it, I had no idea it was part of the Bobby Dodge series. Of course, when I found out, I had to get ALONE. What a series! I love it and hope to see so many more.
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| Shannon Jensen |
| Organize Your Corpses by Mary Jane Maffini |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
A fun cozy that was sent to me because of the two dachshunds featured in the story.
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| Ron G |
| Reasonable Doubts by Gianrico Carofiglio |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
I was really disappointed with this book, after reading some pretty good reviews. The story concerns a lawyer defending a client who once bullied him when both were teenagers. The client doesn't remember the lawyer at all and the client also has a beautiful wife with whom the lawyer has a one-night stand while his client is behind bars. This whole story felt like it should have been only a chapter in a much better book.
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| J. Kaye Oldner (jkayeoldner@yahoo.com) |
| Fixer by Ed Brodow |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
Ed Brodow's grandfather is the inspiration behind the historical fiction novel, FIXER. About Harry, the hero, Brodow writes, "his bravery and charisma, in conjunction with his willingness to help out other people, made for an amazing life that calls out to be heard."
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| Debbie (deble_2000@yahoo.com) |
| The Lavender Hour by Anne D. Leclaire |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
I loved this book. Jessie, a 32-year- old brain cancer survivor, moves to her family's Cape Cod home to take a break for a year. She is talked into being a hospice volunteer. She meets Luke, dying from pancratice cancer, and they bond. This is a book about the right to life, love, compassion...a must read.
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| Joan G. |
| Four Wives by Wendy Walker |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
FOUR WIVES is the story of four women who are neighbours in a upscale Connecticut community. Each woman is dealing with her own personal struggles. As the story unfolds, we learn that what you see is not always the truth.
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| karen terry (mi3sons@mchsi.com) |
| The Sleeping Doll by Jeffery Deaver |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
This was a great read. It's about Kathryn Dance, who can read body languages. She is after this cult leader who has escaped from prison after interviewing him. There are a lot of twists and turns in this book. The ending, which I really didn't see coming, will surprise you. Jeffery Deaver does it again.
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| Pamela Shockle |
| Come Back by Claire Fontaine and Mia Fontaine |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
A true, grueling story of a young 14-year-old girl with a privileged life who chooses to pursue a life of drugs, sex, hanging with street people and distancing herself from her parents. Her mother spends a large amount of time hunting for, kidnapping, finding treatment programs etc to try to save her daughter Mia. The first half of the book is truly harrowing, with details of Mia spiraling out of control and the anguish of a mother trying to intervene. The second half follows their controversial in-patient treatment program and the activities the kids go through, as well as the programs and self discovery the adult must do. It drags and gets repetitive in places, but overall, is still a fascinating read. It's amazing how a mother's love can overcome all. A must read for those with troubled teens.
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| Thomas |
| You've Been Warned by James Patterson |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
I didn't think this was particularly good, considering Patterson's other works. Kristin Burns is a nanny who is having a few bad days. She keeps having recurrent nightmares, from which she always wakes up screaming. Then there are the dead people she speaks to, multiple bodies being brought out of a hotel in which no crime is reported, and the on-going affair she is having with her employer's husband. While fairly entertaining, it reads like the rambling of someone on a bad acid trip.
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| Debbie (delphimo@yahoo.com) |
| Absolute Power by David Baldacci |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
I thoroughly enjoyed this excursion in to the Secret Service, the wealthy and lawyers. It's a little scary what wealth and power mean. Baldacci does very well with his characters and plot development.
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| Lori Barnes (photoquest@bellsouth.net) |
| Odd Mom Out by Jane Porter |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
This was my first book by Jane Porter. I didn't know if I'd like it, but I really did. It's about a single parent trying to have a life for her and her daughter. She moves and relocates her job to be close to her mom to help take care of her, so she is starting over. Her daughter wants to become popular at school, so she'll stop at nothing to get her mom in with the cliques at the school, even though she doesn't really fit in with the other moms. The mother and daughter have a very interesting relationship.
After 10 years of warding off men and not having a relationship, she meets someone who may change her mind. He's got to be really special to be able to do this --- 10 years is a long time. You will enjoy this book, and it will keep your interest.
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| Carol Hoyer from VA (pageant4u@hotmail.com) |
| Lifeliner: The Judy Taylor Story by Shireen Jeejeebhoy |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
Shireen Jeejeebhoy has written an extraordinary account of Judy Taylor and her fight for life starting in the 1970s, when medical science was not as it is today. Ms. Jeejeebhoy is the daughter of Khursheed Jeejeebhoy, who --- through trial and error --- provided groundbreaking research on long-term artificial feeding for patients who would otherwise die.
Judy Taylor was diagnosed with a life- threatening disease at the age of 34. She could not eat like normal people could eat, and without eating she would die. Most physicians and specialists she saw gave her no hope and recommended to her family that she be allowed to die. Judy would not let that happen --- she wanted to live to be with her family and raise her daughters.
When all medical specialists gave up, one man, Dr. Khursheed Jeejeebhoy, promised Judy he would keep her alive. Through trial and error and imagination, he kept the promise.
Ms. Jeejeebhoy’s ability to write on such a tough subject amazed me; she was able to show compassion for the patient and family, while at the same time, provide credit to all the medical personnel that went above and beyond to help this patient. An amazing story about the extraordinary dedication of doctors who were willing to beat all odds, regardless of what others said.
Initially, I had some concerns regarding the writing in the earlier chapters, which described in detail Judy’s medical complications. There were numerous medical terms that I felt the general public would not understand and it would deter them from finishing this incredible story. However, as one proceeds through the book, the author began to explain the medical terms, which made for easier reading and understanding. This would be an excellent book for any family or patient to read who has the possibility of going through artificial long-term feedings.
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| Amanda |
| Plain Truth by Jodi Picoult |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
This book is very enlightening about the Amish way of life...would definitely recommend it!
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| Anne K. (annabelle973@cox.net) |
| The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
If I had known this book would be so terrific, I would have read it much sooner. I hated to see the story end.
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| Anne K. (annabelle973@cox.net) |
| Garden Spells by Sarah Addison Allen |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
This sounded like it would be a delightful book, but it was a real disappointment.
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| Maureen H |
| One Last Scream by Kevin O'Brien |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
This was a great book. It was very fast moving and I could not put it down. I am now going to look for his back list. There were great twist and turns throughout this book.
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| J. Kaye Oldner (jkayeoldner@yahoo.com) |
| Bad Girls Club by Judy Gregerson |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
A disturbing portrait of what goes on behind closed doors of a dysfunctional family.
Kudos to Judy Gregerson for bringing a story like this to the surface where it can be discussed.
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| Jean |
| The Remains of the Dead by Wendy Roberts |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
A light, but very entertaining mystery revolving around a woman who cleans up after suicides, murders, etc. as a profession. She has a special ability to communicate with the recently deceased to help solve the crime.
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| Mo (maestraw@msn.com) |
| The Dead Father's Club by Matt Haig |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
This updated version of Hamlet is poignant and humorous, but also tragic. I found this in the Dallas airport and picked it up on a lark.
|
| Jonathan |
| Sammy's House by Kristin Gore |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
This novel by Kristin Gore is an amusing story of White House chaos involving a President named Wye. As the 2008 election heats up, this book brings some much needed levity. I am surprising myself by recommending this book, since I'm not a fan of Al Gore, but this kind of humor is non-partisan.
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| Pancake Turner (wpeglow@gmail.com) |
| River of Gods by Ian McDonald |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
It's like William Gibson outsourced to India.
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| Debbie (delphimo@yahoo.com) |
| Prime Witness by Steve Martini |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
PRIME WITNESS is set in California and is about all the problems of vying for political position. It takes a close look at birds of prey: the falcon and the owl. A compelling story of the victims and the different twists in the story. I couldn't put it down.
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| Priscilla |
| Crazy Aunt Purl's Drunk, Divorced & Covere by Laurie Perry |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
The book is about the true-life adventures of Laurie Perry, who is trying to create a new life after her husband leaves her. It is a funny book!
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| Ellen Engelking |
| Team of Rivals by Doris Kearns Goodwin |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
A must for history buffs, this is the fascinating story of Abraham Lincoln's cabinet. Her prose makes the men, women and the times come alive.
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| Juanita |
| Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
This is our book discussion selection. I loved it! I'm sure I read it in high school but I know I enjoyed it more this time (36 years later!)
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| Mo (maestraw@msn.com) |
| My Enemy's Cradle by Sara Young |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
A young Polish girl switches places with her Dutch cousin and assumes her identity in a home for unwed mothers whose babies' fathers are Nazis. It is based on facts and is very intriguing. There is some suspense, too. This book is not yet released.
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| Donna Tanner |
| Elfhunter by C. S. Marks |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
ELFHUNTER is the first of a trilogy. I am reading the second book now. Fantasy is not my favorite genre and I don't usually search through it to see what's new, but this title caught my eye. I got it from the library in case I disliked it. Now I'm hooked! What a great story and the author just fascinates me with her imagination. Hope you try this one, because you will more than likely want to read all three.
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| Jean |
| Big City, Bad Blood by Sean Chercover |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
A riveting debut! I found the book to be an exciting read. The story moves along at lightning speed and you find yourself caring about the characters and truly immersed in the story.
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| J. Kaye Oldner (jkayeoldner@yahoo.com) |
| One Last Scream by Kevin O'Brien |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
This is one serious thrill ride --- so much packed into one paperback. The action never stops and even though I knew who the killer was, this author had me guessing as to whether I was correct or not until the very end.
If I could use but one word to describe this book, it would be “WOW!”
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| Lea Ann in Seattle (baxtergr@msn.com) |
| Alexander and the Wonderful, Marvelous, Excellent, by Judith Viorst |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
Having given this author's book of the trials and tribulations of the young Alexander to a grandson some 20 years ago and recently to a great-grandson, I found her newest book about Alexander to be great fun. This son, his wife and 3 young children move in with Viorst and her husband for 90 days while their home is being renovated. The joys, trials and tribulations of these 7 persons sharing a home are delightfully shared with the reader who laughs and shudders right along with the host and hostess.
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| Adrienne |
| T is for Trespass by Sue Grafton |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
I usually give this author high marks, but I have yet to finish this book, and I have had it from the library for almost a month. Being busy usually doesn't keep me from finishing a book. However, I will say that as a stand-alone work, this book is really good. Grafton is excellent at creating her world, and the people are fleshed out. So, even if you aren't a fan, I would recommend it, as it could be I am just too busy to give it the attention it deserves. Her Alphabet series is fantastic, and overall, worth reading.
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| Jean |
| T is for Trespass by Sue Grafton |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
A new book by Sue Grafton, need I say more?! As all Kinsey Millhone books, the plot is interesting and Kinsey a delight to spend time with.
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| J. Kaye Oldner (jkayeoldner@yahoo.com) |
| Everlasting by Kathleen E. Woodiwiss |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
Kathleen Woodiwiss is one of my favorite romance authors. It breaks my heart to see such a talent writer go. She will be sorely missed.
I am sorry this story fell short of her extraordinary talent. I found myself skimming through. It lacks the passion that trademarks in her work.
Nevertheless, she remains the best!
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| Janet Stewart |
| The Curse of the Spellmans by Lisa Lutz |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
Fun sequel to THE SPELLMAN FILES. Izzy grows on you and Lisa Lutz further develops her craft.
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| Marion Miller (lamamil@aol.com) |
| Summer Reading by Hilma Wolitzer |
| Rating: 1 Stars |
Don't bother unless you want a soap opera.
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| J. Kaye Oldner (jkayeoldner@yahoo.com) |
| The Husband by Dean Koontz |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
I love the story idea, but wish that another author had written the book. Koontz has a tendency to go on and on. He did so much of that in this book that I fell asleep twice.
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| Linda K. Jitmoud (writermom6@yahoo.com) |
| Cell by Stephen King |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
This is only the second book by Stephen King I've read. The first was LISEY'S STORY. It was tense and thought-provoking; quite a roller-coaster ride.
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| Kellie (acountkel@bellsouth.net) |
| Vinegar Hill by A. Manette Ansay |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
This books takes place in the 70’s in the mid-west. Ellen and James are married and have 2 children, Amy and Herbert. Struggling financially, James decides they must move in with his parents. I don’t know if it was typical of the time or not, but James parents, Mary Margaret and Fritz, are the most sour, mean-spirited people depicted in a book. I should have known, this being an Oprah book, that it would be sad, depressing and include a dysfunctional family. I do not see anything great about it. The thoughts were scattered and confusing. The book bounced from inside the head of one family member to another. I did see talent in the writing style, but the depressing tone of this book took away from it. I think the only reason this book sold a million copies was because Oprah read it, otherwise it would be nothing special.
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| Judy O. |
| Last Call by James Grippando |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
This is the 7th book in a series about criminal defense lawyer Jack Swyteck and his friend, Theo Knight. Jack saved Theo from death row many years ago, and they have a strong bond that cannot be broken --- even though some have tried. I thought this series has gone a little stale with this latest offering. It was an okay story, but not one that really compelled me to read.
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| Michele L. |
| Wife For Hire by Janet Evanovich |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
Janet Evanovich has penned an hilarious romantic tale about two people looking to escape their pasts whilst improving their futures. WIFE FOR HIRE is a disarming look at small-town life where coffee at the local diner is the afternoon entertainment. Maggie wants to leave her hometown to create a new life for herself. She hopes that by taking on a job with Hank she can settle in anonymously and write a book. Hank is desperate to change his image as the town’s ladies man. His apple orchard business will not succeed if he does not get a bank loan and fast. I was laughing heartily at the antics between Hank and Maggie. Their attraction towards each other pulled them like magnets. They have a hard time keeping their hands to themselves.
Evanovich provides a riotous cast of quirky characters in the story that adds an old-fashioned hometown appeal. Her trademark suspense is infused into the story as well. I absolutely loved every aspect of the novel! WIFE FOR HIRE is enjoyable, funny and sexy in all the right places. It is perfect escapist fare on a cold winter day.
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| Michele L. |
| Whose Number is Up, Anyway? by Stevi Mittman |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
WHOSE NUMBER IS UP, ANYWAY? is a spunky, engaging murder mystery with our two returning favorite characters, Teddi and Drew.
Teddi Bayer, an interior decorator, a.k.a. rookie sleuth, stops by the local butcher shop to pick up some brisket. What she doesn't ask for is the woman sales clerk running out of the freezer and screaming that there is a stiff body in there. Teddi's investigator antenna goes on alert and she secures the murder scene as fast as she can. She hurriedly places herself in front of the freezer door until the police arrive. Several customers in the store converge towards the freezer. Some are already talking on their cell phones.
Sexy investigating officer Drew Scoones, shows up with his partner. Drew patiently reminds Teddi that she needs to quit messing with crime scenes. The only investigating that Drew is willing to have Teddi do is the two of them behind closed doors with no crime scene in sight. Teddi doesn't give up, she puts her nose to the grindstone, eating up any bit of evidence she can get, following her gut instincts and ultimately getting herself into trouble, again. As she investigates, she gets wind of news about a doctor who is murdered in a parking lot near the hospital and quickly discovers that somehow the two murders are connected.
Added to the ensemble of characters are an exasperating but concerned mother, Teddi's quarrelsome kids who push her nerves almost to the limit, her aggravating ex-husband, gossiping neighbors, and with a handful of friends and associates. What discoveries does she find next? You will have to read WHOSE NUMBER IS UP, ANYWAY? to find out!
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| Michele L. |
| Over Hexed by Vicki Lewis Thompson |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
A witch and a wizard, named Dorcas and Ambrose, are matchmaking sex therapists who get themselves in trouble. So, the High Wizard banishes them to a very normal, but charming town called Big Knob, Indiana. They don't let this stop them from using there magic to help mortals.
In the town of Big Knob lives mostly normal folk. Although, one guy stands out from the others and his name is Sean Madigan. He has this sex appeal that causes all the women to flock to his front door. He has had no problem getting dates since his teen years. Frankly, he is rather tired of being the object of so many girls' dreams that he asks Dorcas and Ambrose to help him out. What happens next is a riot!
Dorcas and Ambrose magically transform Sean overnight into a dud. They also lend a magical hand to Sean's future. He is introduced to a stunning, red-haired lady named Maggie Grady who wants to purchase the same property that Sean wants to buy. Sean is immediately attracted to her but can't do anything right to get her to notice him since he has lost his attractiveness. There are many quirky characters, including an old lady who shouldn't be driving.
Vicki Lewis Thompson has penned an entertaining novel filled with many surprises. I laughed my head off over the antics between Sean and the women who won't leave him alone. Pick up this novel to have a hilarious, magical good time!
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| Lea Ann in Seattle (baxtergr@msn.com) |
| Mr. Emerson's Wife by Amy Belding Brown |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
A book to read both for pleasure and for learning about Mrs. Ralph Waldo Emerson, Lidia. Lidia didn't plan to ever be married, but was swept away by Mr. Emerson and soon they were married and moving to Concord. Life was not what Lidia expected, but it was never dull. Included are characters such as Thoreau, Bronson Alcott, and other literary figures of the day. A must read for those who enjoy the writings of these authors and those who wish to know more of home life in that era.
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| Tanisha Brown |
| Incidents in the Life of A Slave Girl by Harriet Jacobs |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
A compelling biography that reads like fiction. It takes you into the evils of slavery and one woman's determination to be free.
|
| J. Kaye Oldner (jkayeoldner@yahoo.com) |
| The Darkest Evening of the Year by Dean Koontz |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
THE DARKEST EVENING OF THE YEAR really fell short of my high expectation for Dean Koontz. The book reminded me of a rock. Some parts were smooth while others, bumpy. And I probably could have overlooked much of the rough parts if it weren’t for the far-fetched ending. When it was over, I sat there stunned, wondering if maybe I didn’t get the ending. Since this was a group read, I was able to hear what others had to say. I wasn’t alone in my feelings.
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| Linda K. Jitmoud (writermom6@yahoo.com) |
| The Audacity of Hope by Barack Obama |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
I haven't read any political books recently because most are staid and boring. Obama's book stands out from the pack. He revives the feeling of hope I remember from the days of my youth and tells it exactly like it is. I appreciate both his cautious optimism and his candor.
|
| Martha |
| Inkheart by Cornelia Funke |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
I really enjoyed this fantasy book! Although it is listed as a children's book, any avid reader would enjoy this. Meggie 's father Mo is a book binder who treasures books. However, he used to love to read out loud until one night he read several characters, including the main heartless villian, Capricorn, out of the story of Inkheart. Now those characters want to find Mo for different reasons. The moody "fire eater" Dustfinger wants Mo to read him back into the story since he misses his world of fairies and trolls. Capricorn wants Mo to have him read his "best friend" out.
Capricorn sends his henchmen after Mo and Meggie and will do anything to get his way. How are they going to escape these evil band of ruthless cutthroats?
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| Windancek |
| Dark Lover by J. R. Ward |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
Love those sexy vampires!!
|
| 3M |
| Dreamers of the Day by Mary Doria Russell |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
Actual rating 3.5
DREAMERS OF THE DAY by Mary Doria Russell is a fictional story about Agnes, a middle-aged woman from Cleveland, who finally gets the courage and means to travel on her own. Her choice is Cairo, and while there she meets up with Winston Churchill, Gertrude Bell, and T.E. Lawrence (Lawrence of Arabia) while they are drawing the new map for the Middle East after World War I. Russell’s descriptions of Egypt are spectacular. I have been to Cairo myself, and some of the points made were still true from when I traveled there. I enjoyed the setting of the book and the historical accounts from this period tremendously. From this conference in Cairo, the boundaries for present-day Iraq and other countries in the Middle East were set. The book has encouraged me to explore more about this era of history and re-view the movie Lawrence of Arabia.
However, there were several things I did not like about Russell’s writing style. Normally. I don’t care if a book is written in first or third person. This book was written in first person with Agnes as the narrator. It just didn’t work for me, especially when she speaks directly to the reader. I felt it would have been better had the book been written in third person. In addition, I did not care for the ending at all and actually thought it was quite silly. I can’t describe more, though, without giving spoilers. I’ve read Russell’s books THE SPARROW and the sequel THE CHILDREN OF GOD, and together they were my most thought-provoking books of 2006. I have not read A THREAD OF GRACE, but I have heard good things about it and still plan on reading it. I’m sad to say, however, that I was disappointed in DREAMERS OF THE DAY. It could have been an excellent book if it had taken a different path. I’m still rating it a 3.5, though, because the descriptions of Cairo made me miss it tremendously, and because it did make me interested in the history of how the present Middle East was formed.
|
| Monica Jordan |
| Rhett Butler's People by Donald McCaig |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
This is the story of GONE WITH THE WIND, told from the perspective of Rhett Butler. It shows how Rhett became the man he was. This story is great!
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| Monica Jordan (mjordan1@yahoo.com) |
| Across A Hundred Mountains by Reyna Grande |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
This compelling story is about two people who meet in a jail in Mexico, and that meeting changes their lives. It is also a tale of struggle, survival, and love. Told from two points of view, the story is thought provoking and hard to put down. It makes you think about the reasons for and the stories behind illegal immigration.
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| Bridget |
| Bleeding Kansas by Sara Paretsky |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
I enjoyed reading this book. I did find the beginning a little hard to get into, but after about a third of the way, I couldn't put the book down. I wanted to see how events were going to work themselves out.
If there is one flaw with this book I think it's the character, Susan. I had a hard time figuring out how somebody as grounded as Jim could put up with her self-absorption for as long as he did.
|
| Vickie |
| Tied to the Tracks by Rosina Lippi |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
Lippi took some hot social issues (racism and homosexuality) and stirred them into a slow Southern story that made me sad to say goodbye to the characters when the book ended. I could have stayed in the small Georgia town of Ogilvie a lot longer.
|
| Bridget |
| Summer at Tiffany by Marjorie Hart |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
Cute little memoir about two college girls who go to the "big city" for a summer during World War II and land jobs at Tiffany. Despite the fact that a world war was raging, the world seemed to be a calmer, kinder, gentler place...at least in this book.
|
| Terry Studer |
| Playing Easy to Get by Sherrilyn Kenyon, Jaid Black, Kresley Cole |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
This anthology is erotic, barbaric, seductive and more. Three good stories from accomplished authors will make you happy you took the time to read this.
|
| Debi |
| The Yada Yada Prayer Group Gets Decked Out by Neta Jackson |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
This is an emotional conclusion to her series. I found myself wiping away my tears more than once. If you haven't read this series, I recommend you start with #1 and read them in order. It's about a group of Christian women who meet twice a month for prayers. The women are of different ages, races, and backgrounds, but they have become sisters in Christ.
|
| Beverly (bev208@bellsouth.net) |
| Power Play by Joseph Finder |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
All of Joseph's books are thrillers. You never want to put any of them down as you want to see how they turn out. Each one centers around a theme, of which he seems to have great knowledge.
|
| Andrea |
| On Agate Hill by Lee Smith |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
This book is about the interesting characters involved in the aftermath of the Civil War. Agate Hill is a fictitious plantation in North Carolina. The heroine is thirteen at the start of the novel, and we watch her change as she grows up.
|
| Windancek |
| Snow Flower and the SEcret Fan by Lisa See |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a very interesting book about the culture of the women of the 18th century in China. The relationship between the women in the story is deep. This was a a great story. I loved it and recommend it highly.
|
| Prscilla Flynn (pmflynn@webtv.net) |
| November of the Heart by LaVyrle Spencer |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
I enjoy the way this author writes. It is a nice book to sit by the fire and relax with. It is sad, mysterious, and heart-warming all at the same time. If you like simple romance stories,you like this book.
|
| Windancek |
| Double Cross by James Patterson |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
Great double cross!! Can't wait for his next book!
|
| Windancek |
| The Overlook by Michael Connelly |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
A great story that kept me up till 3 am!!
|
| Terry Studer |
| The Amber Photograph by Penelope J. Stokes |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
This was some of the finest writing I've encountered, and it was well worth every minute it took to read. This author makes you feel her stories. They're full of confusing emotions, and you can't wait to get to the end to see what finally happens.
|
| Terry Studer |
| Upon the Midnight Clear by Sherrilyn Kenyon |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
A new twist on A CHRISTMAS CAROL makes the read worth while. If you have read the Dark Hunter books, you won't want to miss this one.
|
| James Sperduto |
| Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
An excellent read.
|
| Terry Studer |
| Highlander in Her Dreams by Allie Mackay |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
Like the author's last book, this deals with a hunky Scot. Trying to connect today with Scotland of long ago and bringing our characters together for some mighty fine sex makes this light and fluffy.
|
| Terry Studer |
| Evermore by Lynn Viehl |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
Mix the current day with Olde England and vampires and you have an absolutely stunning work of art here. This is the best book I've read in awhile.
|
| Cindy from Danbury CT |
| Widdershins by Charles de Lint |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
For any of you Urban Fantasy fans out there, WIDDERSHINS is a must-read book. Although it is a stand alone, many characters return from some of de Lint's previous works just to become more exciting by the page. Charles de Lint melds the real, fantasy and spirit world so believably and completely that you might just think twice about walking counter clockwise ever again.
A truly enjoyable read with a hidden moral between every word.
|
| Debi |
| Plum Lovin' by Janet Evanovich |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
I decided to re-visit one of my favorite authors while I was "between novels," and I'm so glad I did! Stephanie Plum can get into so many predicaments. In this one, she plays cupid in order to bring in a "fugitive," Annie Hart. The mysterious hunk, Diesel, gives her a helping hand, and some people are breaking out in hives! Enjoy!
|
| L. Hann |
| Mary Mary by James Patterson |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
Alex Cross finally takes a vacation with his family.,,until he gets called on a case that just happens to be near where he is vacationing. Typically, women are not serial killers...or can they be? Read this book to find out more.
|
| Mary M. |
| A Christmas Story by Jean Shepherd |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
A compilation of Shepherd's stories that inspired the hit 1980' classic holiday film, plus other selections equally witty and compelling. Shepherd speaks to the heart of the American family.
|
| 3M |
| The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
THE KITE RUNNER by Khaled Hosseini starts out beautifully:
"I became what I am today at the age of twelve, on a frigid overcast day in the winter of 1975. I remember the precise moment, crouching behind a crumbling mud wall, peeking into the alley near the frozen creek. That was a long time ago, but it’s wrong what they say about the past, I’ve learned, about how you can bury it. Because the past claws its way out. Looking back now, I realize I have been peeking into that deserted alley for the last twenty-six years."
The description Amir tells of his childhood in Afghanistan is mesmerizing. Wanting to please his father, playing (and taunting) his friend/servant Hassan, dealing with the neighborhood boys. The first half of the book is very, very strong. However, the last third of the book, I felt, was too contrived, too formulaic, and too coincidental. I still became very emotional at times, but the ‘wow’ factor for me was gone. There were just too many coincidences in the end to make it a believable story. Overall, though, I did enjoy it, and I’m looking forward to seeing the movie adaptation. I’ll also be reading A THOUSAND SPLENDID SUNS in 2008.
|
| Windancek |
| Unbound Lover by J. R. Ward |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
More sexy vampires!!
|
| Coral |
| The Choice by Nicholas Sparks |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
A good love story, but quite predictable.
|
| Ricki (rickimc@aol.com) |
| The Philosopher's Apprentice by James Morrow |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
Very, very unique and different. It was disturbing at times, but a compelling read.
|
| Martha |
| Forbidden by Suzanne Brockmann |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
This is a reprint of an early Brockmann book, before the Navy Seals romances. It was a quick, easy and enjoyable romance, with very likable characters and reasonable plot line.
|
| Patricia (patriciart@aol.com) |
| Past Perfect by Susan Isaacs |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
A very good and intricate story about a woman who was fired from her job working at the CIA, and after ten years, has not been able to stop wondering why. Every chapter gets her deeper and deeper into the mystery of the disappearance of the one girl from her past job who might be able to tell her why she was fired.
|
| Karl |
| Clapton by Eric Clapton |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
I couldn't put it down. Anyone from that generation, especially those who were into his music should read it. He doesn't mind sharing his warts. Very interesting.
|
| Genie |
| Lean Mean Thirteen by Janet Evanovich |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
Stephanie Plum, quirky and bumbling New Jersey-based bounty hunter, is reunited with her two-timing lawyer ex-husband, Dickie Orr. Stephanie is dragged into this unwanted reunion when she agrees to plant a bug in Dickie's office for Ranger. With Lula and Connie as backup, Stephanie pays a visit to Dickie's office and while planting the bug, sees a photo of him with Joyce Barnhart, which causes her temper to flair. She reclaims her aunt Tootsie's clock and stomps out of the office thinking she will never have to see Dickie again. When Dickie disappears, leaving behind bloodstains and bullet holes, Stephanie finds herself the prime suspect in a police investigation. While trying to clear her name, Stephanie discovers Dickie's ties to shady business partners who are involved in money laundering and drug dealing. Seems Dickie has them out of $40 million dollars. They want the money back and Dickie tells them (under duress) that Stephanie has the key to the bank account.
This causes Stephanie to find her life on the line.
Many members of the usual cast of eccentric sidekicks once again act as Stephanie Plum's entourage and make book #13 laugh-out-loud funny.
|
| Lee |
| The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
I couldn't put it down. Everyone knows these people, but claim not to.
|
| Coral Harrison |
| Home to Holly Springs by Jan Karon |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
This is the last book in the Mitford series and it is one of the best. The Reverend gets a letter that says only "Come Home." So he goes back to where he lived after a 38-year absence. But by the grace of God, it would be nice if everything turned out so well.
|
| Marjorie L. Carmony |
| A Gentle Rain by Deborah Smith |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
I didn't think that Deborah Smith could equal her book A PLACE CALLED HOME, but she did just that with A GENTLE RAIN. There are tears, chuckles and sighs. What a beautiful story.
|
| Rita |
| The Glass Castle by Jeannettne Walls |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
Memories of a dysfunctional family shared with redemption. A book worth reading and then rereading.
|
| F Tessa Bartels |
| Silk by Alessandro Baricco |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
Poetic and sensual. It's really just a short novella about a love so all-consuming that it obliterates all else. (Also saw the movie --- cinematically stunning, but the actor who played Herve was miscast, in my opinion.)
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| F Tessa Bartels |
| Deja Dead by Kathy Reichs |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
I've come late to the Kathy Reichs fan club --- but I'm avid, now. This is a good mystery and I like her lead character, Tempe Brennan, forensic anthropologist.
|
| F Tessa Bartels |
| The Inheritance of Loss by Kiran Desai |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a beautifully written novel dealing with the Indian immigrant experience, the loss of culture, of family, of opportunity. It won the Man Booker Prize in 2006. Highly recommended.
|
| Corinna |
| Think Like A Guy by Giuliana DePandi |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
Well I have not completely finished but thus far, these are my thoughts:
I think the book is really quite funny but the advice the author gives you I completely disagree with --- most of it anyway. I think it tries to fit men into the stereotypical male mold by telling women how to please them by being the stereotypical woman. Absurdity!
|
| Lee |
| Mary Reilly by Valerie Martin |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
A great read. I picked this up at a library sale and couldn't put it down. The Jekyll and Hyde story from a different point of view.
|
| Carol |
| Have You Found Her? by Janice Erlbaum |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
The story is a memoir of a woman, who as a teenager had been a runaway living at a shelter, decides to donate time as a volunteer to the same shelter. She becomes attached to a young runaway named Sam and takes on more than anyone can imagine. I could not put the book the down. The story still sticks with me.
|
| Richard Bartels |
| Goliath by Steve Alten |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
Maybe 3.5 stars ... Think of it as 20,000 LEAGUES UNDER THE SEA meets SPACE ODYSSEY 2001. Can one man's threat of violence achieve a lasting world peace? And will the biochemical computer "Sorceress" allow mere humans to interfere with her thought process? It's not what I usually read but I got caught up in the story enough to keep going.
|
| 3M |
| Year of Wonders by Geraldine Brooks |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
This was Geraldine Brooks’s first novel. She is the also the author of the Pulitzer winner MARCH, a fictional account of Mr. March from LITTLE WOMEN. I read it earlier this year, and while I believe Brooks to be a good writer, I had some issues with her portrayal of the Marches. I feel much the same with this novel. It has very good writing, but once again, I have issues, this time in matters of faith and religion.
YEAR OF WONDERS is the story of a village ravaged by the Plague in 1666. Anna, a widow, is a servant for the rector, and becomes very close to Mr. Mompellion and his wife, Elinor. When the Plague hits and they quarantine the village, the three act as the mainstays who help and comfort the sick and dying. It is a terrible year, and Brooks’ descriptions of the Plague were painful to read. At the close of the year, some are strengthened by their trials and others are utterly devastated by them. What makes this book so special is that it is based on a true story of the village of Eyam, Derbyshire. They voluntarily quarantined their village when the disease hit, and it would become known as The Plague Village. They are remembered as having attempted to stop the spread of disease by this action.
It’s too difficult to go into my issues with the book on matters of faith without divulging too much of the storyline, so I won’t do so. I am still glad I read the novel, as it is a fascinating period in history, and it is all the more interesting for having been based on Eyam. I plan on reading her novel, PEOPLE OF THE BOOK when it comes out next month.
|
| Janice G. |
| Home to Holly Springs by Jan Karon |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
Thankfully, Jan Karon is continuing with some of her cast of characters from the Mitford series and is now focusing on Father Tim and his childhood in this new book. I can see great possibilities for this series. I really missed everyone from Mitford and was so sad when that series ended. Now I can reunite with them and keep reading.
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| LuAnn Morgan (labordi@hotmail.com) |
| The Pact by Jodi Picoult |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
This is the first book by this author I've read and it is absolutely enthralling. Gripping story, believable personalities. It may just be one of my all-time favorites.
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| Priscilla Flynn (pmflynn@webtv.net) |
| Plum Lovin' by Janet Evanovich |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
I enjoy all of Evanovich's books, and this was no exception. All Stephanie Plum stories make you laugh out loud, even if the wording is sometimes risqué!
|
| Ron Burchett (ronburchett1@yahoo.com) |
| Rainbow Walking by Marie Fras Cribari |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
I thought this would be a chick-flick novel, but I was wrong. It is a page turner for anyone who likes good suspense. Just when I thought I knew where the story was heading, it twisted me in a whole other direction. It is a plot counterplot "what If" tale. The mystery is set in the present day, but the trip back into the character's past to the late 1970s mean streets of Detroit, which explains who they really are, is gripping. This author must have had a colorful past of her own or has a the imagination of a great storyteller. I look forward to the sequel. It would make a very cool movie. There are a few editorial mistakes the publisher should have caught. There was nothing so big that it kept me from having a great time with these master gamers in a run for their lives. RAINBOW WALKING grabs you right away and holds you until the end. I read it in one sitting. It is from Publish America and can be found online at their website or any online book store.
|
| Dorothy Olson |
| The Color of Water by James McBride |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
I missed this book when it first came out and thanks to a friend, I have had the opportunity to read it. I'm at a loss for words to descrbe all the emotions I felt while reading about Ruth and her life.
It is quite hard to understand why a white woman would want to be black in this country or, for that matter anywhere, but Ruth's life story answers the question.
Hardships, suffering the worst humiliations, poverty, you name it --- Ruth overcomes all in order to raise her 12 children and see that they are educated. James, the protagonist in THE COLOR OF WATER, shows us how human beings can cope and rise above the worse situations in life. I highly recommend this book.
|
| Julie |
| Bridge of Sighs by Richard Russo |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
A wonderfully written novel that will captivate you from the beginning.
|
| toni savchuck (tonisandlin@aol.com) |
| The Winter Rose by Jennifer Donnelly |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
After having picked up and read THE TEA ROSE, I couldn't wait for Donnelly's second book. This is the story of a female doctor in the 1900s in London and how she falls in love with a gangster. Woven within is the poverty of the time as well as the political intrigue of the upper classes. A wonderful and mesmerizing read!
|
| Dennis Weber |
| Shattered Sword by John Parshall and Anthony Tully |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
Well-researched and easy-to-read account of pivotal naval Battle of Midway from Japanese sources. The authors show Japan's World War II ambitions and hopes for a decisive battle with America were flawed from the outset.
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| Mary in HB (mljacobsinhb@msn.com) |
| Steve and Me: Life with the Crocodile Hunter by Terri Irwin |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
This was not the memoir I expected. It turned out to be very touching and a great, affectionate look at Terri Irwin's relationship with her husband, the Crocodile Hunter. I loved watching his shows with my son.
|
| Edie (Eworobe@yahoo.com) |
| Miss Wonderful by Loretta Chase |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
Classic Regency romance.
|
| Mary in HB (mljacobsinhb@msn.com) |
| The Wages of Sin by Jenna Maclaine |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
A perfect historical paranormal romance that hits all of my favorite elements: romance, intrigue and history. I can't believe this is an independent release. It is to be re-released by St. Martin's Press this summer. I highly recommend this one!
|
| Mary in HB (mljacobsinhb@msn.com) |
| Kitty and the Silver Bullet by Carrie Vaughn |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
This series about a DJ on a midnight talk radio show is not a typical werewolf story. There's just enough suspense and romance to keep the pages turning and not overwhelm.
|
| Debra GUyette (Debby236@comcast.net) |
| A Gentle Rain by Deborah Smith |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a wonderful story, filled with quirky characters and a story that will have you alternately laughing and crying. A GENTLE RAIN is not to be missed.
|
| Mary in HB (mljacobsinhb@msn.com) |
| Born Standing Up: A Comic's Life by Steve Martin |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
I really enjoyed this memoir by Steve Martin. It was interesting to me since I grew up near Disneyland and Knott's Berry Farm where he worked. Several moments in the book had me laughing out loud.
|
| Pat in MO. |
| World Without End by Ken Follett |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
As expected , another fantastic book by the Master storyteller. This book was 1013 pages long and weighed 2 pounds. It took me two weeks to read and I looked forward to it every day.
|
| Donna |
| Missing Witness by Gordon Campbell |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
Excellent read. Two brilliant defense lawyers take on a case with many surprising twists. They must defend their clients, a mother and daughter. The mother and daughter walk into the house to speak to the husband/father. Shots are heard, they walk out of the house, the mother drops the gun and the husband/father is found dead. Who did it? I loved it and could not put it down. The thrilling twists are non-stop right to the end.
|
| Pat in MO. |
| Someone Knows My Name by Lawrence Hill |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
A mesmerizing story of the slave trade from 1745 to 1802.
|
| Mary in HB (mljacobsinhb@msn.com) |
| Sucker Bet (Vegas Vampires, Book 4) by Erin McCarthy |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
This romantic vampire series is just silly fun. A great read without a lot of thinking.
|
| Lindsey |
| The Brimstone Wedding by Ruth Rendell writing as Barbara Vine |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
A great book. It's different from usual thriller/mysteries in that the crime wasn't revealed until almost the end of the book, and it was a surprise. I can't wait to read more by this author.
|
| Christy H. |
| For Her Pleasure by Maya Banks |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
This was one heck of a read! Hold off on all liquids and be prepared to stay in your chair until you have finished the last page, because this is a one-sitting read! This anthology with three interlocking and connected stories is a fast-paced, highly erotic, sensual and suspenseful read. The first two offerings are about the evolving romance and relationship between childhood friends, Mac, Kit and Ryder ... one of the best ménage à trois stories I've ever read, and one that I will be thinking about for a long time. These three characters have supporting roles in the third tale between Texas Ranger, Jack Kincaid and Mia. Great storylines and drool-worthy heroes --- WHAT SHE WANTS, WHAT SHE NEEDS, and WHAT SHE CRAVES are absolutely sinfully delicious! YUM!
15 Stars! (5 for each of the 3 stories)
|
| Pat in MO. |
| The Street of a Thousand Blossoms by Gail Tsukiyama |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
THE STREET OF A THOUSAND BLOSSOMS is told from the other side --- a story of Japan during World War II.
|
| Thomas (tomjac0850@charter.net) |
| Angels and Demons by Dan Brown |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
This superb thriller by the author of THE DA VINCI CODE will keep you up turning pages 'til dawn. The old enemy of the church, The Illuminati, has reared its head and is threatening to kill four of the cardinals most favored to assume the papacy. At the same time, the Illuminati is preparing to destroy Vatican City with a powerful weapon hidden so well the Swiss Guards cannot locate it. I couldn't put this book down.
|
| Christy H. |
| Wolf Tales V by Kate Douglas |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
In this latest tale of the shape-shifting Chanku, Ms. Douglas gifts us with two intertwined stories. I absolutely love this series! There are great new characters and as always, we get to reconnect with previous characters, couples and partners. Although this book can be read as a stand-alone, I highly recommend reading not only the previous four novels, but the Sexy Beast series also.
|
| Christy H. |
| Touch Me by Susan Lyons |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
| This delightful fast-paced erotic romance was a great read! I didn't realize u |
