| Marsha |
Nothing to Lose by Lee Child |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Jack Reacher continues to electrify us with his escapades. This time, he is in the middle of nowhere between the towns of Hope and Despair and when arrested for vagrancy, all hell breaks lose. Prepare for a fun ride.
|
| Debi |
Fearless Fourteen by Janet Evanovitch |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Stephanie Plum, Lula, Morelli, and Tank --- some of the funniest characters in fictiondom!! I couldn't put this one down. I laughed out loud at the monkey scene! Granma Mazur is caught in a cemetery! You have to read it to believe it!
|
| Ardie Downing |
The Soloist by Steve Lopez |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A very interesting story about the friendship of two very different people. It's a shame that in this great country of ours, we have people living on the street. Shame on Ronald Reagan.
|
| Emmaleigh |
Twilight by Stephenie Meyer |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is absolutely the best series I have ever read.It is so amazing that even if it's fiction, the realism is enough to make you believe that what's going on in the story is actually happening! I love vampire books and this is by far my favorite! Team Edward!
|
| Marjorie Clark |
Personal Days by Ed Park |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Great book for anyone who has worked in an office. This is the story of our daily lives, especially when you know that cutbacks (lay offs) are about to happen. I enjoyed the humor of the author when it comes to things like post-its, smoking outside in groups, etc.
|
| Kelly |
The Suspicions of Mr. Whicher by Kate Summerscale |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A non-fiction title that reads like fiction. A true page turner that keeps you reading into the wee hours.
|
| Mary Champagne |
Mister Pip by Lloyd Jones |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This book touched me at so many levels. Revolt and blockades leave the villagers in Bouganville isolated and in fear in their tropical paradise. The fact that I have never heard of the incidents, even though I was a history major, brings home that there are so many struggles around the world that go unnoticed. This world is noticed and changed by a white man, Mr. Watts, and by "Mr. Dickens" and "Mr. Pipp."
The power of books, the power of story telling, and the power of the human spirit infuse this novel. We readers see this world through the eyes of 13-year-old Matilda, and also through the pages of GREAT EXPECTATIONS. This is the kind of book you can't put down and that you don't want to reveal too much of, because it makes such wonderful reading.
|
| Debbie (delphimo@yahoo.com) |
Shades of Earl Grey by Laura Childs |
Rating: 3 Stars |
A Tea Shop mystery set in Charleston, SC, with a little less of the magic of Charleston, and more emphasis on jewelry and the work of a cat thief. Theodosia's dog, Earl Grey, helps to capture the thief. Jory seems so lifeless, I do not believe that he and Theodosia ever kiss --- he seems more like a brother.
|
| Fran |
Come Back by Claire and Mia Fontaine |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A tumultuous story of a woman who fights to rescue her daughter from drug addiction. It was interesting. I couldn't put it down.
|
| Diane Dubay (monysmom@comcast.net) |
The Sparks Fly Upwards by Diana Norman |
Rating: 4 Stars |
The latest book in Diana Norman's historical novel series that began with A CATCH OF CONSEQUENCE, this was a great read that centers around the French Revolution and how it affects Makepeace Hedley's life back in England.
|
| Cheryl |
Water For Elephants by Sara Gruen |
Rating: 5 Stars |
At first, I thought I wouldn't like a novel set in the circus, but I found I couldn't put the book down once I started it. The characters are really well developed and the story holds your interest.
|
| Liza |
Kindred by Octavia E. Butler |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I loved this book, the first Octavia Butler book I've read. It was mentioned during a radio segment about Butler's recent death. Half science fiction, half historical novel, it is the story of an African American woman who time travels from California in 1976 to Maryland in 1815. Against her will, she travels back to antebellum Baltimore where slavery is legal and an unaccompanied black woman is very unsafe. She makes friends and enemies, and worries about her husband who is waiting for her to return. Riveting. Read it!
|
| Kellie (acountkel@bellsouth.net) |
Head Over Heels by Jill Mansell |
Rating: 4 Stars |
It’s nice to take a break from heavy reading and try something light. This was a typical Mansell book. I enjoy her style. She has several characters that she develops and they are all connected throughout the story. The link in this book is that they all live in the same neighborhood, and most of them have secrets they want kept from each other. The main plot has to do with Jessie and the new neighbors who have just moved in. Jessie has a history, with one of them and when it’s discovered it changes the lives of both families. The mini plots have their share of infidelities, romance and plain old gossip. The author makes it easy to keep track of the characters and there is always something to discover in each turn of the page. If you want a light summer read, I highly recommend a book by Jill Mansell!
|
| Judy |
Emperor: The Gates of Rome by Conn Iggulden |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Fictionalized account of the early life of Gaius Julius Caesar. Interestingly written and a quick read.
|
| Ozarks Anne |
The Secret Life of CeeCee Wilkes by Diane Chamberlain |
Rating: 5 Stars |
The reader knows almost from page one that this plan is not going to work. You want to say, "Don't fall for that line!" But, of course, CeeCee does, in fact, fall head over heels for the the line and the handsome guy who spins the story. Eventually, through lots of unexpected happenings, and twenty plus years, things are straightened out.... not in a good way...but concluded. This was a fast read, because you'll want to learn how the author finally ties it all together.
|
| Lisa Kent |
Forever by Karen Kingsbury |
Rating: 3 Stars |
Fifth book in the series for her. Really a good book.
|
| Nan |
Looking For Salvation at the Dairy Queen by Susan Gregg Gilmore |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I read this book in two days. I couldn't wait to share it with my friends. It is a great summer read.
|
| Karen D. Haney |
The Undomestic Goddess by Sophie Kinsella |
Rating: 4 Stars |
If this is your first encounter with Sophie Kinsella's joyous writing, you will not be disappointed and will be eager to read more of her work. For those fans of the Shopaholic series, this book will be another addition to your collection of fabulous, fun reads in the Kinsella style! However, be warned that Samantha Sweeting is not Becky Bloomwood. Although Bloomwood from the Shopaholic series is great fun and addictive reading; with Samantha Sweeting, Kinsella brings more depth to the main character.
Sweeting is a lawyer nearing her 30s and on her way to becoming a partner in a prestigious law firm. When in a panic, Samanatha leaves London and finds herself in the home of Trish and Eddie Geiger, and is mistaken for a housekeeper. With the reader's imagination allowing for a few impractical and unreal situations, Samantha is able to fool the Geigers with her quick thinking and chicanery. Enter a dreamy gardener, and things get out of hand. The hilarious situations, quirky almost-believable characters, and a Samantha that you care about are what Kinsella creates in THE UNDOMESTIC GODDESS and what makes for an enjoyable, funny, and light read that will entertain you and keep you turning the pages to find out what happens to Samantha.
|
| Trudy |
Welcome to the World, Baby Girl by Fannie Fladd |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A novel centered in small-town America written with humor that takes me back to the 1970s.
|
| Lori Barnes (photoquest@bellsouth.net) |
The Beach House by Mary Alice Monroe |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This was a wonderful story! You'll find yourself really getting involved in these characters' lives. You will fall in love with the sea turtles and love the captions on each chapter. You'll be happy to know there's a follow up to this called SWIMMING LESSONS, and you will love that just as much!
|
| MarilynD |
Collective Marks by Nancy N. Feldman |
Rating: 4 Stars |
One of the few fiction works about horses that actually kept my interest to the very end. This was the story of a taskmaster dressage trainer and a young man in danger of being in prison the rest of his life. If you enjoy horse novels, you'll love this one.
|
| Bridget |
The Romanov Bride by Robert Alexander |
Rating: 3 Stars |
Disappointing novel about Ella, the Grand Duchess of Russia and sister to Alexandra. Apparently she had an unhappy marriage. Her husband's death at the hands of revolutionaries "frees" her to do good works. Ella's story is told parallel to that of "Pavel", a revolutionary who plotted her husband's death and then Ella's. The plot device was weak and the characterization is superficial. It was a good idea that could have been better.
|
| Rich (hjulstrom@juno.com) |
The Knife of Never Letting Go by Patrick Ness |
Rating: 5 Stars |
The first part of a trilogy marketed for young adult readers, this story is set in a town of all men, where everyone can hear each others thoughts, and dogs can communicate with people. Todd Hewitt is about to turn thirteen when his life is turned upside down; he's forced to flee the only home he's known, following a map to a place he's not sure exists. The true nature of the town and answers to its many secrets are expertly and slowly revealed by Ness as Todd is pursued by its leaders, and the story is well paced. Don't be deceived --- this book is relevant to adults as well as young adults, and should appeal to a wide audience. It deals with loss, coming of age, love, and hope in a well-crafted manner which is easy to read. The American edition will be out this fall, but you can get the UK edition now. Highly recommended!
|
| Cynthia |
The Stolen Child by Keith Donohue |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Is there such thing as an adult fairytale? After reading Keith Donohue's THE STOLEN CHILD --- I believe there is! This is a story of changeling or hobgoblin that takes the place of young Henry Day and assumes his identity, while the child is changed into a hobgoblin. Each chapter alternates between the two characters' points of view as they live their new lives. Fascinating work --- riveting at best, just when you think you end on this chapter so you can catch some sleep --- you find yourself turning the page to start the next one! Good luck to you --- try to get some sleep...
|
| Debi |
Belong to Me by Marisa de los Santos |
Rating: 5 Stars |
When I first began this book, I thought it would be another story about shallow women. It is not! It is a wonderfully-written character study of people whose lives intertwined as neighbors. The main character, Cornelia, makes good decisions, and the ending is not mushy!
|
| Ricki (rickimc@aol.com) |
What You Can't See by Allison Brennan, et al |
Rating: 3 Stars |
There are three paranormal romances in this collection. "Deliver Us From Evil" by Allison Brennan was my favorite.
|
| Jud Hanson |
Deep Sound Channel by Joe Buff |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is the first in a six or seven-book series about submarine warfare of the future. I first read a book in the series last year, not realizing until later that it was part of a series. The focus of the books is Commander Jeffrey Fuller, who assumes command of the SSN Challenger when the captain is badly injured during a fight with a German sub. The book opens with some background on the war: Germany and South Africa have both had military coups and have managed to take over much of Europe and part of the African continent. Challenger's mission is to destroy a bio-weapon facility. If you like military novels, this is a series you should enjoy.
|
| Candace |
The Space Between Us by Lisa Unger |
Rating: 4 Stars |
The ending is upsetting, but realistic! This gives readers a good look at India and its culture.
|
| Susan from NLR |
Drives Like A Dream by Porter Shreve |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I got this book by default, but I liked it. Lydia Modine lives in Detroit and is the daughter of a car designer. He worked for Ford, Tucker and GM. She writes works on how the automobile has affected society, etc. Her husband leaves her and marries a younger woman and her children are scattered across the US. She wants them home and sort of loses her grip. It's an interesting book on Detroit and the dynamics of family, etc.
|
| Judy O. |
Those Who Save Us by Jenna Blum |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a compelling novel set in Germany during World War II. For fifty years, Anna has refused to talk about her life in Germany during the war. Anna married an American soldier and moved to Minnesota with him and her 3-year-old daughter, Trudy. So, Trudy begins a search for the truth of their lives during that awful time. This book is so rich in details but is often very disturbing. This terrible history should never be repeated.
|
| Fran |
Little Children by Tom Perotta |
Rating: 4 Stars |
An interesting medley of stories from a small suburban town. A stay-at-home Mom and a stay-at-home dad meet at the park and start a wild affair. A town goes wild when a local pedophile/ suspected child murderer is released from prison and moves next door. A group of housewives share in their underlying loneliness and disillusionment. Although there are many storylines and characters in this book, Tom Perotta manages to pull it off where the story flows and the reader is pulled in to a small community with all its flaws. An original read!
|
| Hedy Biggers |
On Gold Mountain by Lisa See |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Lisa See presents to the reader a beautiful and powerful story of her love of her Chinese/American family's history. She chronicles the very personal story of her great-great-grandfather's arrival to United States in the 1800's, where the Chinese were treated somewhat better than slaves. His son builds a mercantile empire and marries a Caucasian woman.
Ms. See then invites the reader to experience her history of a Chinese/American family, which tells of the racism, love stories, entrepreneurial adventures, domestic heartaches and marriages. A very intimate and courageous family/love story.
|
| Debbie (delphimo@yahoo.com) |
The Dead Don't Dance by Charles Martin |
Rating: 3 Stars |
A story set in small South Carolina town about a white teacher and his wife, and the black students and friends. It deals with God's work and an individual's belief in God; also, the idea that life is not always fair, but that each person is responsible for dealing with life.
|
| John M |
Nothing to Lose by Lee Child |
Rating: 4 Stars |
When Mr. Child writes about Jack Reacher, his books are either 4 or 5 stars. While I don't consider this one of his best, it is still superior to most novels on the market. I enjoyed it very much; as usual, good escapist fare, and a primo read for the beach or a long trip. There is a good reason why every book Mr. Child writes starts out on the New York Times top ten list.
|
| TJ (tpowell52@bellsouth.net) |
The Reapers by John Connolly |
Rating: 4 Stars |
The latest in a great series.
|
| Coral Harrison |
Down Hill Lie by Carl Hiaasen |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I am not a golfer, but I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It is about Hiaasen playing golf when he was younger, then going back to it again after about 20 years. It is a hoot.
|
| Coral Harrison |
The Dark Tide by Andrew Gross |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Karen's husband is killed when a train is bombed. A year later, she watches a tape of the bombing and sees him coming away from the area. The rest of the story is about how she tries to find him. Good mystery.
|
| Arleen |
Pope Joan by Donna Woolfolk Cross |
Rating: 3 Stars |
I would have enjoyed this more if I had not just previously read PILLARS OF THE EARTH by Ken Follett. POPE JOAN paled by comparison, both in quality of writing and believability of story. I found it to be formulaic, predictable, and at times, like a soap opera.
|
| aliadam |
Salem Falls by Jodi Picoult |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I always love Jodi Picoult books and this older one didn't disappoint. As usual, it involves a courtroom case trying to figure out the truth of who is right and who is wrong. The story involves allegations of underage sexual improprieties and looks at the world of Wicca. As usual, once you get started, you can't put it down.
|
| Marcia (tzgkd5@aol.com) |
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak |
Rating: 5 Stars |
At the end of the book, there is a list of suggested books to read. On it was THE BOY IN THE STRIPED PAJAMAS, which is a book for children. I thought that book was also a wonderful story and a powerful read, but as much for adults as for children. I was surprised at the end to even think of THE BOOK THIEF as a children's book. It was heartbreaking and extremely moving as the narrator discussed life in Germany during the Nazi occupation from the eyes of children. When I finish a book like this, I don't want to read another one right away. I want to stay with it for a while and think about it more.
|
| Sandi |
Sail by James Patterson and Howard Roughan |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I read any and all books by this author and enjoy all of them. This is no exception. A mom takes her troubled children on a sailing trip, which turns into a fight for each of them to stay alive. This well-crafted, quick read held my interest and was suspenseful throughout. Slip this one into your beach bag for a great summer read!
|
| Margery |
Cost by Roxana Robinson |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A wonderful, disturbing, informational, compulsive read! Robinson has an amazing ear and the great ability to tell a heart-wrenching story in sparse prose from within the mind of the main characters. You will never look at heroin addiction in the same way again. It's great to read or listen to. Two thumbs up!
|
| Wendy |
7th Heaven by James Patterson |
Rating: 4 Stars |
The 7th book in the Womens Murder Club series. A quick read and a page turner. I read this in one sitting.
|
| Rita Carter (gandmari@aol.com) |
The Overlook by Michael Connelly |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A fast reading Harry Bosch mystery. As always, a great surprise ending that only Harry (and Michael) could think of.
|
| Mary |
The Other Boleyn Girl by Philippa Gregory |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This book expands one's knowledge of England's Royal Family's history, while engaging the reader in the saucy details of the characters' personal lives and how their actions shape world history.
|
| Dorothy |
The Senator's Wife by Sue Miller |
Rating: 5 Stars |
The Senator's wife, Delia Naughton, has stood by her husband through his extra-marital affairs. They have been separated for years but she still loves him, sleeps with him and supports him. When he has a stroke and is no longer able to care for himself, she takes him into her home against the advice of her daughter. Read more to find out what happens. This is a great read.
|
| Dorothy |
Domestic Affairs by Eileen Goudge |
Rating: 5 Stars |
DOMESTIC AFFAIRS is about two women who are raised together and grow up as best friends. One is the daughter of a wealthy family, and the other, the maid's daughter. This book tells a story of betrayal that happened 20 years ago. Their paths once again meet, and the roles are reversed.
I never finish a book if I'm not enjoying it. There are too many good ones out there and I can't read them all, although I try. This is one of the best.
|
| CC |
Justice by Faye Kellerman |
Rating: 3 Stars |
This was an entertaining enough mystery, though I was disappointed that I had already figured out all the "whodunnits" by the end. There were no surprise twists.
|
| Dorothy |
Loving Frank by Nancy Horan |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a fictional biography of Frank Lloyd Wright, told by his mistress. I think she was insane. She gave up everything to be with him, her husband and her children. You'll enjoy it even thought you'll want to kick her.
|
| Julie |
Dumas Key by Stephen King |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Very suspenseful and masterfully written, it's a classic Stephen King.
|
| Dorothy |
Domestic Affairs by Eileen Goudge |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a must read. It was great.
|
| Tamara Randi |
The Lemon Tree by Sandy Tolan |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A great book about Israeli / Palestinian history suurounding a house that was built by an Arab family and occupied by a Jewish family after the Holocaust. It discusses the war in Israel and a lemon tree in the backyard of the house that was to become a haven for both cultures.
|
| Corinna |
Change of Heart by Jodi Picoult |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Not as good as her other books, but still very well written and capturing nonetheless!
|
| Angela Satalino |
The Appeal by John Grisham |
Rating: 3 Stars |
Not one of his best, but a good, quick read. The book does make you wonder about our separation of powers, or possible lack thereof.
|
| Corinna |
Jemima J by Jane Green |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Very very entertaining and sweet book. I read it on a 14-hour plane ride. I wanted something light that I could get lost in. This is a very good book for that. Loved it!
|
| Pat Miller |
Death Angel by Linda Howard |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This book grabbed my interest in the first few pages. I couldn't put it down and read it in 1-1/2 days. Loved, loved, loved it!
|
| Ronda Anderson |
Odd Hours by Dean Koontz |
Rating: 3 Stars |
I love Odd Thomas and the Odd series, but was rather disappointed with ODD HOURS. It was hard to follow, and left too many unanswered questions.
|
| Ronda Anderson |
Fearless Fourteen by Janet Evanovich |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I read other books while I wait for the next Stephanie Plum installment to come out. It's the only series that makes me laugh out loud while reading. Number 14 was not quite as good as some of the others in the series, but still a winner. For me, FEARLESS FOURTEEN needs more Ranger, and maybe more cliff-hanging danger. It was a little anti-clamactic. Still, I enjoyed it.
|
| Pat Miller |
The Widow by Carla Neggers |
Rating: 2 Stars |
I tried for months to finish reading this book but it was impossible. Too many character names to remember.
|
| Judy |
The 47th Samurai by Stephen Hunter |
Rating: 3 Stars |
One American soldier and one Japanese soldier meet in Iwo Jima in 1945. 60 years later, the son of the Japanese soldier comes to America to recover his father's sword and meets up with Bob Lee (the American's son). When Lee finds the sword and returns it to Yano in Japan, the samurai comes out. Allies and enemies abound in a culture foreign to this ex-Marine and Vietnam vet. This read like one of those low-budget martial arts films, and the ending was way too pat and contrived. I don't remember why I picked up this book, perhaps a recommendation for EW weekly. Although action packed, it was not my cup of sake.
|
| Candace |
Friday Night Knitting Club by Kate Jacobs |
Rating: 3 Stars |
This book could have been written as two. It took me a long time to finish, and actually, the second part of the book should be a story in itself. Too many subplots, as well as characters.
|
| Pat Miller |
The Choice by Nicholas Sparks |
Rating: 5 Stars |
What can you say about anything Nicholas Sparks writes? He's very good and the characters in his books are outstanding.
|
| Dorothy |
Playing for Pizza by John Grisham |
Rating: 1 Stars |
I never finish a book if I'm not enjoying it. I didn't finish this one.
|
| Suzy R |
The Spanish Bow by Andromeda Romano-Lax |
Rating: 4 Stars |
It's hard for me to put this book down as I follow the life of of a young cellist through professional and political changes in Spain of the early 1900s.
|
| D. Lohrding (darbyscloset@yahoo.com) |
True Evil by Greg Iles |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Great page turner mystery. It might be a bit graphic along and with to many snakes.....I just shut my eyes!
|
| Yolanda |
Sleuth Slayer by Bruce W. Burton and Jeffrey B. Burton |
Rating: 5 Stars |
America’s leading mystery writers are being brutally murdered. Third-tier author Guy Davitt --- a would-be Dashiell Hammett --- stumbles upon the killer’s bizarre M.O. Through a dark labyrinth of film studio power brokers, publishing industry politics, a decadent family's wealthy influence, police immorality --- as well as the dawning realization that he himself is on the killer's list --- Davitt pursues the truth.
SLEUTH SLAYER is a fun read with clever dialogue, but it's also a great satire on the mystery publishing industry.
|
| Gladys Paradowski |
Who Needs Cupid by Debra Solonen, Molly O'Keefe, Susan Floyd |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A fun read that isn't meant to be mind-taxing, just entertaining. It's great for Valentine's day gifting or reading, since all three stories center around that Holiday.
|
| Vicky |
Eclipse by Stephenie Meyer |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I am currently reading book #3 in the Twilight Saga. I am really enjoying this one --- it is a lot better than NEW MOON. I just thought Bella was a bit whiny in NEW MOON. I highly recommend this series if you are vampire and a romance fan.
|
| Marleen Davis |
The Murder Notebook by Jonathan Santlofer |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I just started this, and after his first book, featuring Rodriguez, a forensic sketch artist who is a little different, I couldn't wait to start it. The author puts drawings in the text so you can see what the artist is doing and that makes it really interesting. I'm hoping (so far it's so) that this one is as good as the first, ANATOMY OF FEAR.
|
| Donna Bassett (Edwards) |
The Forbidden Tales: Sword by Da Chen |
Rating: 5 Stars |
You will be flipping through pages effortlessly to read this beautifully written story by a master storyteller. Young Miu Miu is told on her fifteen birthday the truth about her father's death. He was known for crafting the most beautiful swords in the country. However, the sword he was commissioned to make for the evil emperor would be his last. Fearing the sword maker would replicate the masterpiece, he had him savagely killed. Now it was time for Miu Miu to honor her father by finding the emperor and killing him. This book is mostly suited for grades 5 and above. I can't wait to read more from this expert storyteller, who knows how to capture your attention from cover to cover.
|
| Fran |
Persian Girls by Nahid Rachlin |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A beautifully written memoir of a woman and her relationship with her sister in Iran. Nahid shares her childhood memories as well as her own journey to America for college. As with many of the stories from this region of the world, there is a sad undertone underlying the roles of women in Iran. This book was set in the '50s and '60s and doesn't even capture the oppression women in Iran face today!
|
| Sally Bowen (serra.ap.owen@comcast.net) |
The Pact by Jodi Picoult |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Slow for me at first, and a bit weird; but the most engaging thing in this book were not so much the characters; it was how the plot changed the characters. Also, how our justice system treated Chris was something I had to know. The book was most interesting from the middle to the denouement.
|
| Lori Barnes (photoquest@bellsouth.net) |
How to Love Your Retirement by Barbara Lynn Waxman and Robert Mendelson |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a small book --- 214 pages that are packed with information and opinions from hundreds of people about retirement. Here are some of the things it covers: 50 and counting, is it time to retire? The R word, what does it mean to "retire"? Within your means: Money tips, dealing with domestic changes, settling into a new place, The possible dream, new hobbies etc... This book covers so many topics I had never thought of. There's also a place in the book that has Information and life-coaching excersises with plenty of resources you can look up on your computer. I love the way it is written and laid out to be easily read and understood. I love the opinions of so many of the people, and the book gives so many helpful suggestions to things you never thought of that could really make a difference in your retirement. I'm glad I got this book before my retirement. I think it has brought many things to mind to do before hand that will make life more enjoyable. I can't really think of anything this book didn't cover, I found it very insightful and useful.
|
| E.Quinn Knight (eqkmath@gmail.com) |
Wednesday Sisters by Meg Waite Clayton |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I love reading books about book clubs! This one takes a little twist as the book club also writes! The characters are easy to love. It is a page turner that takes about two hours to read. It is fun and light and delightful.
|
| RitaB |
The Burnt House by Faye Kellerman |
Rating: 4 Stars |
The latest Peter Decker/Rina Lazarus mystery. This one doesn't involve Rina at all, but the murder uncovered while solving a murder makes up for it. I enjoyed it.
|
| SuzannefromTexas |
Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I don't know why I resisted this book for so long. Neither the title nor the subject matter (an old man's remembrances about working with a circus during the 1930s) seemed to grab me, but when I saw it at the library, I decided to give it a try. Thank goodness I didn't miss it! The character of Jacob Jankowski as an old man is so well done that I turned to find the author's picture to estimate her age. The description of him leaving his house for the last time, "bundled up like a cat on the way to a vet", captures a feeling perfectly.
|
| Pattirose |
The Woodlanders by Thomas Hardy |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I listened to the audiobook that was read to perfection by Rufus Sewell. It is so well written, so sweet, so sad, so annoying, it takes one through all the emotions. I would highly recommend it --- it truly is a classic that everyone should experience.
|
| Christy (oltlfreak@aol.com) |
The Last Oracle by James Rollins |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I love his books. Ever since THE MAP OF BONES, I've been hooked! THE LAST ORACLE had a good storyline, and at the end, I even shed a tear.
|
| Gail Meehan (GCMEE@aol.com) |
Bloody Bones by Laurell K. Hamilton |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I have recently started reading Hamilton's Anita Blake, Vampire Killer series and find them very entertaining --- gory and very bloody, but fun reading. BLOODY BONES is number 5 in the series.
|
| Lori Barnes (photoquest@bellsouth.net) |
Charanavi by Masahiro Tsurumoto |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This was a really fun book, something you can do with your friends, to see who you're compatible with. What kind of inner animal are you? What does your birthday say about you? Character navigation was developed as the 1st theory to analyze animal characters. This has an easy-to-read chart and has fortune-telling charts also. I was impressed with the author of this book --- what prompted him to explore Charanavi, his experience at age 4, and the things that transpired in his life. There is a chart also that shows how to use the system. I think all ages will have fun with this book; it's definitely something different.
|
| Nikki (gramanik2001@comcast.net) |
Change of Heart by Jodi Picoult |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Another winner by Jodi Picoult. Some people might be put off by all the religious discussions in the book, but they are an integral part of the story and keep it from being a GREEN MILE ripoff. As she did in MY SISTER'S KEEPER, the last few lines of this book were not what I expected and made the end of the story unpredictable and enjoyable for me.
|
| Nikki (gramanik2001@comcast.net) |
Amy and Isabelle by Elizabeth Strout |
Rating: 3 Stars |
I read this book because of a Radio Readers Group. The story of a mother & daughter and the secrets they keep from one another was interesting and slightly entertaining. I was often frustrated by the lack of communication between the two main characters. I would definitely read this book, but it wouldn't be at the top of my "to be read" list.
|
| Bonnie |
You've Got To Read This Book! by Jack Canfield and Gay Hendricks |
Rating: 3 Stars |
Interesting suggestions, but they lean heavily toward self-help and touchy-feely suggestions. Most of the people interviewed on their choices are writers or speakers on self-help, new age and similar topics.
|
| L. Hann |
Book of the Dead by Patricia Cornwell |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Good read. Can't wait for the next book.
|
| Ladyslott (lslott@optonline.net) |
Bitter is the New Black by Jen Lancaster |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Jen Lancaster’s memoir is funny, very, very funny. It may not be for everyone, but I laughed ‘til I cried while reading her story.
During the go, go dot.com craze at the turn of the millennium Jen Lancaster is living high off the hog. She makes a ridiculous amount of money, as does her live-in boyfriend Fletch. They have a spectacular apartment in the hippest part of Chicago, and they spend money like crazy. Then comes the dot.com crash, and before you know it Jen is out of a job, and soon after so is Fletch. In the next two years, until re-employment comes her way, Jen mines her major lifestyle changes for some deliciously brutal comedy writing.
Jen doesn’t censor her thoughts and everything she thinks just comes out. Nobody escapes her wicked and wry commentary, not even herself. As she figures out how to go from the high life to please don’t turn my electricity off, she examines her irresponsible lifestyle and has an epiphany, but it hasn’t changed her sardonic outlook one bit; she’s as caustic as before, but now she is a bit more understanding of some of the plight of average wage earners. A bit!
|
| Pattie Berryhill (pattiberr@aol.com) |
Clapton by Eric Clapton |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Eric talks about his childhood, family dynamics, music career and his addictions.
|
| Sandy Haber |
People of the Book by Geraldine Brooks |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Interesting story about a religious book. The author takes us from the present day [1996], when an Australian rare-book restorer is given the chance to preserve the Sarajevo Hagaddah, back in history, from 1940 to 1480. The story is fiction based on fact and includes family problems as well. A very interesting study of religion and all its problems in the past, which still hang over today.
|
| Lillian |
Black Order by James Rollins |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I enjoy thrillers and this book by James Rollins is the best of his recent Sigma novels.
Lisa Cummings is a doctor on a mountain-climbing expedition when her expertise is needed. She and Sigma Force operative Painter Crowe are investigating a Buddhist monastery in Nepal where something very strange seems to be happening to the monks, and one goes on a murderous rampage.
In Denmark, another Sigma Force operative, Grayson Pierce, is pulled by a young girl into an investigation on a stolen Bible that belonged to Darwin himself, and supposedly holds clues to a secret scientific experiment. In South Africa, something very strange is happening with some of the animals, causing them to brutally attack humans when unprovoked.
Three seemingly unrelated series of events unfolding appear to have chilling ties to a Nazi experiment conducted during World War II that was supposedly destroyed. Suddenly, Sigma Force operatives are in a race against time to get to the bottom of these events before it destroys them all.
Once again, James Rollins has written a good action thriller. He keeps up a good pace and the suspense builds up well to a satisfactory climax. I found, however, that the switching of points of view happened too frequently for me, but everything came together well and the climax was satisfactory. I look forward to more novels by this author.
|
| Anne F. |
Nefertiti by Michelle Moran |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Sibling from Hell! Have you ever thought that a brother or sister was too dependent or needy? Think of being at the beck and call of a sister who is the queen of Egypt, let alone a queen of Egypt who is setting herself up as a goddess! Moran makes this woman come to life, keeping the history accurate while giving the main characters a 21st-century voice that will make them completely recognizable to anyone who has a family. An engaging novel.
|
| Lori Schultz |
Fearless Fourteen by Janet Evanovich |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I have loved Evanovich's Stephanie Plum since the 1st book, ONE FOR THE MONEY. All 13 have been chuckle-out-loud books also full of suspense and romance, and 14 is another great read. Evanovich is definitely one of my favorite writers.
|
| Robert E. Brown, Sr. (RBrow73538@aol.com) |
World Without End by Ken Follett |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I am a big fan of Ken Follett's books. I read THE PILLARS OF THE EARTH right after it came out. WORLD WITHOUT END brings the whole story to a thrilling read.
|
| Lori S. |
An Ice Cold Grave by Charlaine Harris |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is not one of her humorous paranormal novels, but it's still very good. Harris always writes good mysteries, so you can't go wrong with her books.
|
| Maryellen Goodwin (mgood222@hotmail.com) |
There's No Place Like Here by Cecelia Ahern |
Rating: 5 Stars |
THE WIZARD OF OZ with a modern metaphysical twist! I got "lost" in this book for two nights. For most of her life, P.I. Sandy Shortt has been a women obsessed with everything and everyone that has ever gone missing. It didn't matter if it was her sock that somehow escaped from the dryer or the little girl from across the street. She was consumed!
One day, while working on a missing persons case, she finds herself lost. She too is now missing. . .missing in the place she has been searching for all her life, the answer to her ultimate question, "where does everything and everyone missing go?"
|
| Shirley |
Collateral Damage by Fern Michaels |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is another book about the Sisterhood. I enjoyed it, though not as much as previous ones. The Sisters just didn't get as down and dirty as before. But all in all, still enjoyable.
|
| Debra T. |
The Other by David Guterson |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Two friends --- one wealthy and brilliant, the other blue-collar and equally intelligent --- love exploring the wilderness areas around Seattle. The rich boy decides to disappear into the woods, and only his friend knows where. The book is a bit slow paced, but engrossing and beautifully written.
|
| Lillian |
Blood Trail by C.J. Box |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Evoking the natural beauty of Wyoming's Big Horn Mountain, C.J. Box has penned a novel that is fast paced, packed with suspense, with more twists and turns than a forest trail.
Joe Pickett has been summoned by the governor to investigate the death of a hunter who was found hung in a tree and field dressed. A red poker chip is found near the body. Now forced to work with Randy Pope, who had him fired in his last outing, Joe discovers that this is not simply an isolated event --- two other hunters have been murdered, and a serial killer is hunting the hunters. This sends the state into a panic and the pressure mounts to find the killer.
BLOOD TRAIL holds your attention and is filled with local color. There are enough twists and turns to keep you guessing who the killer is. The book contains more graphic violence than in his earlier books, but is not overdone. The characters are well rounded and the plot is well executed. I look forward to reading more of C.J. Box's books.
|
| AnneMarie DeRemer |
Twenty Wishes by Debbie Macomber |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Fast enjoyable read that is part of the women's fiction series, Blossom Street. It has wonderful characters, and the books keep getting better and better.
|
| Emry |
Charley's Web by Joy Fielding |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A very suspenseful and shocking book, excellent read.
|
| Debi |
Mr. Monk in Outer Space by Lee Goldberg |
Rating: 4 Stars |
If you like "Monk", the TV series, you'll be just as entertained by this book! Monk is an obsessive compulsive detective who finds himself in the middle of "aliens." Now who's strange? You gotta love that Monk!
|
| LaTatooie |
Handle Time by Lincoln Park |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Up until I read this book, I never considered what it would be like to work inside of a call center. I would basically dismiss the customer service reps I spoke to on the phone. HANDLE TIME has completely changed the way I behave when I call to pay a bill, or call my bank. This book is amazing!
|
| Becky Cruz (ABamaBecky@aol.com) |
Lust's Betrayal by Debby Conrad |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a wonderful romantic suspense novel. Ross McLaughlin's wife died 14 years ago. No one's sure if it was murder, an accident, or suicide. He and his teenage daughter, Emily, receive word that a loved one is sick, so they go back home. Emily meets the family whom she doesn't remember, and the past comes to back to the future. A page-turner that had me hooked from the 1st chapter.
|
| Patricia Phillips (melody_62801@yahoo.com) |
Murder Melts In Your Mouth by Nancy Martin |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I love mysteries, and this is more of a light-hearted one, with a little sex and a little chocolate, of course. I love this kind of mystery because, most of the time, it is in a series.
|
| Glenda |
Away by Amy Bloom |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Bloom captures and holds the reader's attention throughout the book, as we follow the immigrant, Lillian, in the quest to find her lost daughter. She encounters challenges that are both physical and emotional. Although Lillian seems willing to sacrifice herself in numerous (and often unemotional) ways, her journey is worth the read. It is an epic with some historical fiction mixed in. This is the first book I have read by this author and I will be reading more.
|
| Sandy |
Bright Shiny Morning by James Frey |
Rating: 3 Stars |
This book has several different stories of people living in Los Angeles, and I enjoyed them. Several chapters told facts about L. A., which I didn't really understand why they were necessary, and skimmed over those to get to the end. It's not my favorite book by this author.
|
| Fran |
The Guy Not Taken by Jennifer Weiner |
Rating: 3 Stars |
I'm not a huge fan of short story novels because just as I start getting into a story, it ends. That being said, I rated this book a 3, which may have been higher if I were a fan of short story-style writing. Jennifer Weiner's writing style is funny and engaging in these stories, as it is with the other books I've read by her. I did enjoy them, but could only rate it a 3 because of the fact that I am left wanting to know more when the stories have ended. If this collection were not by this author, I probably wouldn't even have read it.
|
| Phoenix |
The Blood Knight by Greg Keyes |
Rating: 4 Stars |
The third book in the Kingdoms of Thorn and Bone series.
These books should appeal to those who enjoy high fantasy with complex, well-developed characters. Particularly appealing are several portrayals of strong non-stereotypical women.
With its Intelligent and witty writing, the world Keyes creates is believable, and filled with magic and intrigue.
|
| Rita Carter (gandmari@aol.com) |
Winter Study by Nevada Barr |
Rating: 3 Stars |
Another Anna Pigeon novel set in Isle Royale during the winter. Anna was representing the National Park Service during a wolf study. Shortly after she arives, foulplay makes an appearance. Although the storyline and plot were excellent, the book kept getting bogged down in the snow, gore and too much repetitious detail. I'm a fan of Nevada Barr and I've read all of her books, but this one just didn't measure up.
|
| F Tessa Bartels |
The Yacoubian Building by Alaa Al Aswany |
Rating: 3 Stars |
This is an interesting look at modern-day Egyptian culture and society. But the confusing (to me) cast of characters made it a more difficult read.
|
| F Tessa Bartels |
Death du Jour by Kathy Reichs |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is the 2nd Tempe Brennan mystery. It's a very good series.
|
| Margie Schroeder |
In This Mountain by Jan Karon |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is seventh story in series about Fr. Kavanaugh and the residents of small town, Mitford. It is well written, and the characters are well developed. A good leisurely read.
|
| Thomas (tomjac0850@charter.net) |
The Darkest Evening of the Year by Dean Koontz |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a very enjoyable book by a very gifted author. As usual, some fairly ordinary but very decent people are pitted against the lowest form of twisted sociopaths. Helping the good folks is a wonderful golden retriever named Nickie, who seems to be part dog and part angel. This is no doubt a tribute to the author's recently departed golden, Trixie. Trixie would be proud.
|
| Renee |
The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A slim book that reads like short journal entries, but packs a whallop in the fewest of words. Important.
|
| Renee |
Exiles by Ron Hansen |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A beautiful and haunting novel about Gerard Manley Hopkins' poetry, life, and spirituality. Woven along is the story of the loss of the Deutschland, in 1875, and five young vibrant nuns who went down with the ship in the north sea.
|
| Nan in Louisiana (nan_guidry@yahoo.com) |
Firefly Lane by kristan hannah |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I work in a library and come across plenty of books to read. My favorites are forensic thrillers. Every now and then, I need a change of pace. That 's when I can count on Hannah"s books to pull me through. FIREFLY LANE was a perfect change of pace. It covered 3 decades of the lives of 2 bbf girls. It made you think back to your own life, when the events are mentioned in the book (like the death of Kennedy). It shows the strength of friendship through the many years and what true friendship is all about. You will laugh, you will cry, and you will not be able to put it down. A must read for the summer or as a group.
|
| Debbie (delphimo@yahoo.com) |
Four Blind Mice by James Patterson |
Rating: 3 Stars |
This installment i the Alex Cross series concerns the murders of ex-soldiers from the Viet Nam War, Alex's decision to join FBI, Sampson and Billie's wedding, and of course, Jamilla --- the new love in Alex's life. The killers and their lack of morals are so scary.
|
| Donna |
Basket Case by Carl Hiaasen |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A reporter who once was a hard worker on the investigative beat is now working in Florida as an obituary writer. While writing an obituary, he finds that it was for a member of a once-famous band member who was murdered and did not die of natural causes, as the police had thought.
The book contains some very funny and ironic parts in it, and lots of twists and turns as well.
|
| F Tessa Bartels |
Something from the Oven by Laura Shapiro |
Rating: 1 Stars |
The book is subtitled: "Reinventing Dinner in 1950s America" and it had pretty good ratings on amazon.com. I was expecting it to be humorous and entertaining, but I was just bored. I couldn't finish it and that is rare for me. This could have been so interesting, but it reads more like a sociology text book. I gave up after 90 pages.
|
| Julie |
Fearless Fourteen by Janet Evanovich |
Rating: 3 Stars |
Another great visit to the Burg. Evanovich keeps things hopping with a few new characters, plenty of humor and another new car design for Stephanie. More Ranger and we could have moved up a star!
|
| Sue Pecaut Stark (sstark7060@aol.com) |
Same Kind of Different As Me by Ron Hall & Denver Moore |
Rating: 5 Stars |
My late Dad's "blue stocking" lady friend recommended this nonfiction book to me, and I immediately bought it (she hasn't steered me wrong yet). This little paperback is the fascinating story of two men, one is rich and white, the other poor and black, and the wonderful woman "warrior for God," who brought them together. This story makes the reader realize that there usually is hope, where acceptance and love grow rampant. Great story, and so very well told by two (formerly) non-writers. Grab your kleenex!! Fabulous, eye-opening look at life from two Southern viewpoints.
|
| Bridget |
Playing With the Grown-ups by Sophie Dahl |
Rating: 3 Stars |
Interesting coming-of-age novel. Mom is an artist with one illegitimate child, two from a failed marriage. She treats the oldest as a friend. They have a very dysfunctional household.
|
| Crystal Blackburn |
Quicksand by Iris Johansen |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Another Eve Duncan Forensics thriller. The nice little unexpected plot twist at end sets up storyline for a future book(s)!
|
| Bridget |
Born to Rule by Julia P. Gelardi |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Very good biography of five of Victoria's granddaughters. All were eventually consorts to ruling monarchs. Most of them led sad, unhappy lives with tragic endings (especially Alexandra, wife of Nicholas II). Reading this book made me wan*t to read more about these women and their contemporaries.
|
| Crystal Blackburn |
Not in the Flesh: A Wexford Novel by Ruth Rendell |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I was really excited, waiting for this book to be published in the US. It was every bit as good as I expected it to be!
|
| Sally (SalbyC@aol.com) |
The Prince of Beverly Hills by Stuart Woods |
Rating: 3 Stars |
This was an entertaining audiobook, which weaves the lives of real people in with the fictional characters. Although somewhat of a detective story involving the west coast mob, what I enjoyed most was the description of Hollywood in the late 1930s and the growing movie industry. It's quite fascinating. Not a blockbuster of a story, but definitely worthwhile.
|
| Linda M. Johnson (tcheer4life@yahoo.com) |
Audition: A Memoir by Barbara Walters |
<
