Skip to main content

February 16, 2018 - March 2, 2018

This contest period's winners were Elizabeth S., Nancy B. and Sherry L., who each received a copy of THE HUSH by John Hart and SUNBURN by Laura Lippman.

 

Neena
Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi

5
This was a riveting book that I couldn't put down once I started reading it. It follows several generations of people following them from the late 1700s to present day. It reminded me of ROOTS by Alex Haley except that HOMEGOING is a work of fiction. It shook me to the core. After finishing the book, I had to go back and read some parts over again to understand the connections. Yaa Gyasi is an exemplary author not just in her ability to tell a good story, but also in pointing out the injustices that we humans create. I highly recommend this book.

Donna
The Killer Who Wasn't There by Bill A. Brier

3
Oklahoma, 1950s and Police Chief Bucky's first case on his first day is a robbery. The robbery evolves into a murder victim found inside a room with the door locked from the inside and no other exits. As the investigation progresses, Chief Bucky learns that other forces are involved and they will either force him to give up his job or he will be killed. This was a good mystery.

vera
Surprise Me by Sophie Kinsella

4
Imagine going to see doctor just for a checkup, and said you both should live to be 100+. Goodness, when got married 10 years ago, everything had gone well. But 68 more years together. Well, they decide to add a little something else to their marriage. Each plans surprises for the other. But the reader is in for some very weird surprises. Don't want to spoil for others, but you will not believe some of them.

Dorothy
One Perfect Lie by Lisa Scottoline

4
I like the way Lisa Scottoline writes. She keeps you engaged and wanting to figure out the endings which she did in this book. All her characters are very important. However, in this book the ending seemed to read that there will be a sequel.

Jane
Gods and Kings by Lynn Austin

5
Excellent book (#1 in a series of 5),which brings the Bible alive. Takes place during time of "Kings" and the rise of King Hezekiah.

Patricia
The Mountain Between Us by Charles Martin

5
One of the best books I've ever read. Thrilling story of survival. This was an edge-of-your-seat book. Hard to put down to do anything else. So I just read and read. It went too fast.

Erin
The Stranger in the Woods by Michael Finkel

5
This was the extraordinary story of a young man who walked into the Maine woods one day and had virtually no human contact for the next 27 years. Stealing provisions from local vacation homes, the hermit became a local legend until he was finally caught in the act. Like the author, I felt a certain sympathy with the hermit and his quest for solitude, but it was ultimately a tragic story as well, about one man's inability to connect with other human beings. I will be thinking about this book for a long time to come.

Nancy
Only Child by Rhiannon Navin

5
Rhiannon's debut novel ONLY CHILD is written in Zach's voice, told from his perspective. The adult world feels distant and nearly unmindful of his existence. As adult readers, we understand the hints that pass over Zach's understanding. And we are heartbroken for Zach and for his parents as well. It is marvelous that Zach is the moral compass of the story. He demonstrates a wisdom that the adults lack, caught up in their own pain they are oblivious to each other's needs. Zach seeks for healing and wholeness, and as the novel ends with Christmas time arrived, he is truly the light which comes to show the way to salvation for his broken family: forgiveness, kindness, thinking of others, and clinging to love.

Audrey
The Wolf at the Door by Michael Hackard, Esq.

5
This book is all about the problem of undue influence and elder financial abuse in the U.S.A. It gives excellent advice on how to prevent it, spot it, investigate it, report it, and get help in doing something about it. I read it and will not only recommend that my entire family read it, but will keep it handy for future reference. This is a well-written book by Attorney Michael Hackard, who has more than 40 years of experience in this area.

Dorothy
The Ninth Hour by Alice McDermott

5
Excellent for book club. Life in Brooklyn, NY in the 20s, suicide, being poor and the influence of the Catholic church.

Pat
The Music Shop by Rachel Joyce

2
It took a while to get into it and it did get a little better. However, it was a rather strange book and I definitely didn’t like the crude language. Would not read this author again.

Pat
The Woman in the Window by A. J. Finn

4
It was interesting but, at same time, disturbing. The woman definitely suffered from tragedy but was difficult to read of her actions...and how unbalanced she was.

Joanne
The Stolen Marriage by Diane Chamberlain

4
Love this author and this book did not disappoint. Plot was based on real events from our history (the polio scare during WWII). It also gets into how our American culture dealt with segregation and romantic relationships between races during that time period. You are kept on the edge of your seat as you so want the main character to be happy. Highly recommend for those who already love this author or for first-time readers.

Michelle
Practical Magic by Alice Hoffman

4
A bit of a let down. As a huge Alice Hoffman fan I expected a bit more. I read the prequel first and enjoyed the deeper story and more in-depth characters. This was a little disappointing to me.

Karen
Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand

5
As relevant today as it was in the '50s when first published, ATLAS SHRUGGED particularly impresses with a cast of characters we continue to see and read about daily, especially if the reader follows politics. Truly a classic, this book, even at a daunting 1100+ pages, is certainly worth the read.

Gladys
The Closer You Come by Gena Showalter

3
This book contains over 400 pages and introduces you to not just one, but three "bad boys" along with tough language and an overly-abundant number of extremely explicit sex scenes. Surprise characters pop up in the plot, which includes jealousy, loyalty. secrets, love, fear...just a bit of "something for everyone" you might say.

Diane
Complete Stories by Kurt Vonnegut

5
Never knew he wrote so many amazing stories!

vera
Be Mindful and Stress Less by Gina Biegel

5
Won a copy of this. Lots of kids have limited reading time, so the author has thought about this. Each section is very short. Some neat little ideas, so should be helpful to teens. All have a stressful life at times, and need a short break.

Jane
The Devil's Reward by Emmanuelle de Villepin

3
I won this ARC from Sneak Peek here on Bookreporter.com! It was interesting to say the least, with the historical background of Rudolf Steiner. I liked the family plot the best.

Tanya
Dreaming of Manderley by Leah Marie Brown

4
This is the first in a series. It is part of the Riches to Romance Tale series and is quite good. I look forward to the next book in the series. Each book is based on one of three sisters. This is the first book by this author I have read.

Tess
Yoga Mass by Gena Davis

5
Gena is an Episcopal priest who combined the Christian spirituality with the zen of Yoga to enhance a deeper spiritual life.

Terry
The Wolves of Winter by Tyrell Johnson

4
I was sent this book and otherwise might not have read it. I'm glad I did. So how can I intrigue you without giving much away? Post-apocalyptic thriller. Strong "young" female leading her surviving family and others to the bitter cold and desolate Canadian Yukon and forced to learn survival skills. Similarities with THE HUNGER GAMES, STATION ELEVEN, and even a spot or two reminiscent of The EIGER SANCTION,which is more action. But don't be fooled. This book holds its own and it's engrossing, thrilling, haunting, and sometimes a little scary but not in a spooky way, especially when her small world is perpetrated by Jax. Can she hold her own? I have to admit, I love a good book with strong female characters that AREN'T superheroes.

Tessa B C
Karma by Cathy Ostlere

3
3.5 stars. This young adult novel is told entirely in verse, making for a very fast read. While there is a “love story” in the plot, the book includes some pretty serious matter: religious strife between Sikhs and Hindus, civil and political unrest in India, and the treatment of women. Maya is a strong female lead, despite the trauma she’s faced and her withdrawal into herself.

Karen
The Girl Who Wrote in Silk by Kelli Estes

5
This book deals with the hatred of Chinese in the late 1880s in California and goes on to present day. Could not put it down.

Lynn
Exit West by Mohsin Hamid

3
A little book about independent Nadia and gentle Saeed finding a "door" to leave their African country being torn apart by civil war. It's an intimate study of the struggles of world-wide refugees.

wendy
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid

5
Keep me turning the pages to find out the good and bad of each husband as well as Evelyn's struggles. Would highly recommend! Evelyn comes across as a very real person with problems like the rest of us. Her rise and fall from stardom gives us a look inside Hollywood and how deals are made.

Maryanne
Boys in the Trees: A Memoir by Carly Simon

4
A revealing portrait of a young Carly.

Marion
The Summer Before the War by Helen Simonson

3
This book takes you to rural England before WWI. It gives a great picture of the aristocracy and the "other" population of this small town. It also depicts the changes that occur once the war starts and especially the way women and locals are treated. There is also a hush, hush treatment of the gay population.

Susan
This is How it Always Is by Laurie Frankle

4
A fictional story about a family whose youngest child is transgender. Interesting but hard to follow sometimes.

MARILYN
A Year of Living Biblically by A. J. Jacob

5
Truly an eye-opening book as to the integrity of this young man to immerse himself in heritage.

Elizabeth
Pachinko by Min Jin Lee

4
I learned a lot about Korean life in Japan. It was a real eye-opener for me. The U.S. is not the only country that treats immigrants poorly.

Lou Ann
Lucky Boy by Shanthi Sekaram

5
This book was about something we hear a lot about in the news - immigration. Another common problem today is infertility and adoption. The story deals with two women, one an illegal Mexican immigrant and the other an infertile woman. And one sweet, little boy whom they both love and want for their own. Very heartwarming and wrenching at the same time.

Cindy
The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah

5
Okay. After calming down and taking deep breaths I am giving THE GREAT ALONE 5 stars, basically for all the emotions it brought out in me and for the beautiful visualization of Alaska. You cannot compare this newest Hannah book to THE NIGHTINGALE. Two totally different books but both well written and engaging. From the beginning of the story you know something devastating is going to happen and there is nothing you can do to stop it from happening. I read this book in two days. Yep, I recommend!

Veronica
The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah

5
Very good. Characters were beautiful and brutal, just like Alaska.

Veronica
The Vineyard by Maria Duenas

4
Good historical fiction novel.

Nicolette
Anatomy of a Scandal by Sarah Vaughan

3
While there aren't any big disappointments to point out in this novel, nor are there any exciting, outstanding ones. I found this book to be very mediocre. I was expecting more excitement from a story that takes place in a courtroom for the majority of the story. This was not the case. I also felt that suspense was trying to be built by the author but this only resulted in there being "filler", so-to-say, to delay the result of whatever was coming. I didn't even find myself to be that excited/surprised/emotional at all when the verdict of the case was finally revealed. I did appreciate the last little bit of story following the end of the case so that it didn't just drop off there, but overall things fell flat for me.

Betty
The Bomb Maker by Thomas Perry

3
This didn't appeal to me as much as The Butcher's Boy series, but Perry still delivers a solid thriller.

Dee
At the Water's Edge by Sara Gruen

2
It was okay, little drawn out, not much for book discussion if in a book club.

Dee
The Year of Magical Thinking by Joan Didion

2
Was about the first year of life after the death of husband, very drawn out.

Dee
So Fair a Lady by Amber Lynn Perry

3
Enjoyed this book.

Susan
This is How it Always Is by Laurie Frankel

5
I really and truly loved, loved, loved this book. Very realistic. Made me cry, made me feel good, just made me feel. What a great book.

Elaine
City of Secrets by Stewart O’Nan

3
A very dark read about a Holocaust survivor who becomes a spy for the secret groups trying to remove the British and create their own land of Israel.

Donna
The Wedding Date by Jasmine Guillory

1
I don’t understand all the positive buzz this book is getting. The characters are flat and the story unrealistic. Very formulaic, poor writing and not good at all.

Linda
Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate

5
Children from poor families were snatched and adopted (or sold) to wealthy people with Georgia Tann pocketing outrageous fees. These children were treated inhumanely and, in many cases, killed in the group homes. This book is the story of four little girls and their little brother who were snatched off a riverboat shanty by police and taken to Tann. The oldest girl tells her story as a child and then narration switches to the current time and a senator’s daughter who is determined to find out the truth about her family. One can only hope that Georgia Tann is burning in Hell for the misery and devastation she caused so many families. It is outrageous that the Tennessee Children’s Home continued to operate as long as it did.

Linda
Love Walks In by Samantha Chase

5
Hugh Shaughnessy was stunned when he saw a beautiful blonde entering his office via the window. As he got to know her, he found that Aubrey Burke had great marketing ideas for his resorts. A romance between the two soon followed. Aubrey was a cancer survivor and eager to try new things, like ziplining, but she could not get Hugh to go with her. He blamed himself for the death of his mother even though a drunk driver took her life. He was stuck in a rut of never straying from a known course of action. Aubrey has to break him out of this rut so they can have a future together. This is Book #2 of the Shaughnessy Brothers series.

Linda
Shadows in the Night by Heather Graham

4
When a revered professor is killed in Egypt at a dig site, Harley Frasier is determined to prove he was murdered and not a suicide. At the museum opening of the exhibit, one of the members of the dig almost dies when she is found covered in poisoned linen wrappings similar to those used by ancient Egyptians. Micah Fox, FBI agent and former student of the murdered professor, tells Harley that the murderer is someone she knows, someone who was on the dig. They just have to find out who.

Linda
The People vs. Alex Cross by James Patterson

5
Alex Cross is on trial for the murders and attempted murder of Gary Soneji’s followers. If this was not enough to deal with, Alex’s partner John Sampson came to him with a case involving blonde women who were abducted and have disappeared. Alex is contacted by the father of a missing teen and he gives Alex a flash drive showing his daughter being chased in woods and a large knife coming down toward her. Then the video stopped. Was this real? As Alex and his attorneys fight for his freedom, he and John team up to find the women before it’s too late.

Linda
Mine Till Midnight by Lisa Kleypas

5
Although not done by a lady, Amelia Hathaway is determined to get into the gambling club to look for her missing brother Leo. He had not been himself since his fiancé died and had taken to drinking and gambling. She is led to a room where she meets the club’s manager, Cam Rohan. He helps her find Leo. Amelia and Leo travel to their country estate only to find it almost uninhabitable. Their bad luck continues when the house catches fire and is almost destroyed. They are offered a place to stay by Lord Westcliff, who lives on the adjoining estate. Cam is also a guest there and the attraction between him and Amelia grows into a romance.

Linda
Hold Me Close by Megan Hart

3
Abducted and kept locked in a basement for three years, Effie and Heath developed a closeness that led to sex. Once freed, they remained friends until Effie said they needed to get on with their lives and they can’t when they are still clinging to the past. This hurt Heath as Effie is the only woman he will ever love. He started dating another and then Effie decided she wanted to be with him. He told her that he was getting on with his life as she wanted them to do. It took a while for Effie to finally admit to herself and Heath that she loved him and wanted a life with him.

Linda
Do or Die by Suzanne Brockmann

4
Lots of action in this book! Ian Dunn, former Navy SEAL and now a freelance covert operative, went to prison instead of the mob boss’s son to keep his family safe. The FBI did not know this and has him taken out of prison to take care of a job that the FBI could not do—rescue two children being held in an embassy in Miami. To rescue the children, Ian sets up an elaborate con job that reminds me of that in "Oceans Eleven". But the old adage “whatever can go wrong will go wrong” is true. Ian has to think fast to ensure the safety of the children and the success of the operation.

Linda
Headed for Trouble by Suzanne Brockmann

1
I thought this was another of Brockman’s books about the Troubleshooters. It wasn’t. The book contains excerpts from various books in the Troubleshooter series and her thoughts when writing a particular book. I stopped reading after the 25th page.

Judy
Still Me by Jojo Moyes

5
What a wonderful tale of adventure in New York City. Working and discovering new things about herself leaves our heroine with many choices to make. Who to love, what to do with herself when she loses her job, finding friends in different places, marching to save a library, and so much more. The ending is truly romantic. Great read.

Nadine
The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt

4
Too long.

Mary
The Masterpiece by Francine Rivers

5
Loved it! Always look forward to her novels.

Vicki
The Devil's Reward by Emmanuelle de Villepin

2
This book was a tedious read. The Rudolf Steiner educational philosophy plot was boring. I had to look up several words, including anthroposophy, eurthythmy, and pedagogy. I do not mind learning while I am reading, but this was too boring to enjoy.

Lynn
Victoria by Daisy Goodwin

4
Loved this book! Read it in less than a day!

Jill
The Masterpiece by Francine Rivers

4
I won this book from Bookreporter.com and didn’t realize at the time that it’s a Christian fiction novel. I don’t read too many Christian novels but I really enjoyed this book. The story of Grace and Roman, both orphans at an early age, come to meet later in life. Grace takes a job working for Roman, who is a well-known artist and a bit of a playboy. They both struggle with things from their pasts and the relationship between them isn’t the best, but something unexpected happens and things take a change. I will read more of Francine Rivers.

Karen
The Wife Between Us by Greer Hendricks Sarah Pekkanen

5
Great character development and storyline.

Linda
The Perfect Nanny by Leila Slimani

4
It's a gripping story that engages you until the very last page. But...the nanny is very emotionally disturbed and so it's also a very "dark" story.

Linda
Straight Man by Richard Russo

4
Poignant and laugh-out-loud at the same time. I work in academia and so really appreciate the characters that Russo has created!

Matt
The Midnight Line by Lee Child

4
The usual Jack Reacher but also a concise history of opioid use from discovery to the present. Also a description of how addicts are affected and what they will do to obtain them.

Matt
Manhattan Beach by Jennifer Egan

5
Wild ride involving among other things women aiding in WWII efforts. This time in building and repairing ships. Also involves the Mafia and a look at New York in the 1940s.

Sue
The Sympathizer by Viet Thanh Nguyen

5
Pulitzer Prize winner for novel in 2016. Narrator immigrates to the U.S. following the fall of Saigon. While he attempts to integrate into the Vietnamese community in Los Angeles, he is also serving as a conduit of information to his Communist overseers in Vietnam. Extremely well-written and powerful story of both love and friendship. Impressive use of language. This is an impressive of book about Vietnam after the war, not the war.

Patricia
Some Luck by Jane Smiley

5
Each chapter covers one year in the life of an Iowa farm family. Ms. Smiley manages to fill the reader in on all the characters' lives in one medium-length chapter in an interesting, attention-keeping manner. There are two more books in The Hundred Years Trilogy covering 1920 to 2020. It was hard to put this book down!

Judy
Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng

4
A home is on fire as the owner watches...what lead to this event? This is a family saga as well as a story of friendship between unlikely teenagers. A painter and her daughter move to town and the daughter becomes friends with one boy from a family of four. They go everywhere together, but, in the end, it is another brother who becomes the romantic interest. Also, you have a girl who is trying so hard to please her mother...but succeeding? Lots of good character development and an interesting twist at the end.

Elizabeth
Stoner by John Williams

2
The first half, approximately, of STONER reads like a summary. Therefore, it is quite dull. The second half, approximately, isn’t much better, but it IS better. At least characters do a little more talking. Essentially, this is a story of a boy, then a man who goes through life not defending himself and, with rare exceptions, choosing to do what others want rather than what he wants. It is a frustrating story that even gets disgusting when he allows his hateful wife to take over the life of their child. STONER, written in the 1960s, is praised as “the most beautiful book in the world” and “almost perfect” and, now, even has a 50th anniversary edition. Must be good, right? That’s what I thought. But I found it to be otherwise.

Tessa B C
Drums of Autumn by Diana Gabaldon

4
Book Four in the bestselling Outlander series has Jamie and Claire making their home in the mountains of North Carolina. I just love this series. Gabaldon writes compelling stories with characters I care about. Even the ones I hate (Brianna) keep me interested and engaged, and the action is non-stop.

Shelley
Swimming Lessons by Claire Fuller

4
Starting out as a calm family history, there is an air of mystery on the pages. Where is the mother? What is happening to the father? Will they find all the letters? Balanced with tragedy and hope, the quiet story has dynamic punches of emotion. It explores bonds between people. How much can a child, even grown, truly know their parents? SWIMMING LESSONS is a beautifully-told novel about betrayal, love, duty, regret, and the sacrifices one makes over the span of a lifetime.

Lisa
Things to Do When It's Raining by Marissa Stapley

4
My first book by this author and I enjoyed the plot and characters. Great family dynamics and a few surprises along the way. This would make an excellent book club read. I won this book from Bookreporter.com's Winter Reading Contest.

Christine
The Dollhouse by Fiona Davis

3
I guess this would be considered a beach read (I can't say for sure because I don't go to the beach.) I arrived at my rating because this was like reading two different books. The chapters alternate between 1952 and 2016. The 1952 story, featuring Darby was a 5-star read. I enjoyed reading about the historic aspects of the Barbizon Hotel, and I really liked Darby. She was a wonderful, lovely girl, and it was easy to empathize with her. On the other hand, the 2016 story was terrible. One star at the best. The protagonist, Rose, was just horrible. I felt she was self-centered, self-serving and vapid. I could not even feel sorry for her when the "bad thing" happened to her near the beginning of the book.

Brady
The Saboteur by Paul Kix

5
I was in the Marine Corps toward the end of WWII and read many books about escaping and other experiences during that period. Here is a true story that is the equal to the best of them! THE SABOTEUR was captured three times and escaped three times among many other things he endured. A whale of a great story that will keep you interested to the end.

Vicki
The Chalk Man by C. J. Tudor

5
A thriller related in flashbacks to a childhood murder. Keeps you wondering all the way to the end.

Sean
The Poacher's Son by Paul Doiron

3
Paul Doiron's debut novel tells an intriguing story of a father and son. There's murder, mystery, and Maine wildlife. I applaud the writer for not taking some of the obvious steps that I thought were going to present themselves. I thought the main character was interesting but I didn't care for his game warden role. I'm not the hunting/fishing type. I believe the author did a great illustrating the Maine wilderness though. Overall, a good book but it relied too heavily on the locale.

Judy O.
The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah

5
WOW, what a great story! A family of three goes to the Kenai Peninsula in Alaska to live. They think that this will be the answer to all their problems. The father, Ernt Allright, came back from Vietnam as a damaged, violent man. Daughter Leni and her mother Cora are both hoping that Alaska will supply the healing that the family needs. At first things are good for them, but when the long, dark winter arrives they find that they are not ready at all. Violence escalates. I loved this book, and I especially loved the "acquaintance" I made with Alaska.

Patti
No One Knows by J. T. Ellison

5
I have read several books by this author. This one had some surprises. It was a great read.

vera
Two Steps Forward by Graeme Simsion and Anne Buist

4
Sometimes life makes us feel you just need to get away. So a pilgrimage from France to Spain works for some. Most times out there alone, tons of time to think. Once in a while you will have someone to walk with a few days. Just decided to try this in dead of winter, so many of the hotels, and sleeping areas closed. You just might end up sleeping in a small tent and wake up with it snowing. But great when love can find you even then. I won a copy of this.

Dawn
The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah

5
Loved this book and love this author!!

shelly
Beauty and Her Boss by Jennifer Faye

4
Do you believe in fairytales? Ms. Faye has written a very enjoyable Beauty and the Beast-type book. Deacon Santoro (Beast) is a well known and handsome movie star. Gabrielle Dupre (Beauty) is willing to do anything to keep her father out of jail. Mr. Depre is sure that Deacon is the cause of his sister's death and wants revenge. Gabrielle made a deal with Deacon to come work for him for three months as his personal assistant if he will not press charges against her dad. A strange arrangement but the only one that Deacon is willing to accept. Gaby is a very beautiful and efficient assistant but she cannot take being locked away in an office with no contact with the outside world.

Alyson
An Appeal to the World by His Holiness the Dalai Lama

5
Big ideas of what one person can do to change the world. It's a short book with nuggets of information rich with thought.

Donna
The Queen of Hearts by Kimmery Martin

4
Perfect for fans of very popular medical TV shows like Grey's Anatomy, 911, The Resident, The Good Doctor, etc. I enjoyed the medical setting as well as long time friendship between Zadie and Emma. A bit of humor as well. It was easy reading material.

Brady
Hank & Jim by Scott Eyman

5
WOW ! What a book about friendship, accomplishment, realizing life goals met to a point, and the joy of life presented in a wonderful way by the author. Henry Fonda and James Stewart lived an interesting life and were great buddies. James was a fabulous airplane pilot and an incredible flier for the air force during WW II. He eventually became a general in the reserves and deserved that rank big-time. A fascinating book about two fascinating people.

ROSEMARIE
The Perfect Girl by Gilly Macmillan

5
I was hooked on this book after the first page. Every chapter is told by a different character. You begin to like and dislike some of them. Great storytelling, great writing style. Don't plan on doing anything else once you begin this one!

Jay
Salt to the Sea by Ruta Sepetys

3
The book was good, but not a page-turner. You get to know and like the characters, understand their secrets, and grieve their losses. It does bring everything to closure.

Jay
Braving the Wilderness by Brene Brown

4
This is the first book by Ms. Brown that I kept reading and finished in a short period of time. It was engaging and very insightful. This book kept my attention and was so relatable. Great set of concepts to live by.

Lynn
The Unforgotten by Laura Powell

5
I absolutely loved THE UNFORGOTTEN! It's Ms. Powell's debut novel, a combination of a mystery (who is killing young women in a Cornish fishing village?) and a different sort of love story (between local 15-year-old Betty and 30-year-old reporter, John). Lots of twists and turns all leading to an ending that came as quite a surprise to me! If you want to read something different, give THE UNFORGOTTEN a try!

Francisca E B
Educating Rita by Willy Russell

3
3.5 stars. A marvelous play about one young woman’s desire for an education, and the professor who teaches her, and learns from her. I much prefer to watch plays performed, but this was an enjoyable read. Rita is a marvelous character, and I loved watching her grow.

Jan
Open Season by Archer Mayor

5
This is the first book about a detective in a small town, Joe Gunther. We love him, note his mistakes, wonder why he does not go to the girlfriend but, instead, goes to the recent widow of his best friend. This complex mystery takes many twists and turns - it has already been solved; the murderer was convicted three years ago and is sitting in prison. But Joe notes that various people on the jury have been killed or assaulted; he realizes that the death was by another member of the jury, a police car is stolen and found in the driveway of one of the jury, a woman from the jury is sexually assaulted. Joe puts this together and thinks that someone wants the police to reopen the investigation. Joe secretly begins to look at the investigation.

Linda
A Week at the Lake by Wendy Wax

5
Three women who came to New York City to find their future found each other and became lifelong friends. Now they are planning a getaway at the lakeside cabin and getting back in touch with one another. Emma has a secret she has held and it is time to let it go and ask for forgiveness but, before that can happen, she is hit by a vehicle and rushed to the hospital with possible brain injuries. She is in a coma for two weeks while her friends watch and wait by her bedside. They head to the cabin and Emma hopes her friends will forgive her when she discloses her secret.

Linda
Trapped by Scandal by Jane Feather

5
William Ducasse has never met a woman so hard-headed as Hero Fanshawe, but he is amazed at her bravery and quick thinking. It got them out of the stinking French prison. Now she can help their small band in saving aristocrats from the guillotine. They have to watch for agents of the infamous Lizard. He has no sympathy for the aristocrats or for the people who want to save them. William warns Hero about the necessity of staying clear of this reptile. He also warns her about falling in love. Although there is much attraction between them and they act on it, their work is too important and he has no time for a wife or children.

sonia
Lilac Girls by Martha Hall Kelly

4
My mother was a teenager living in London during the blitz. She would tell me that they were bombed day and night. As much as I have read about WWII, I cannot even imagine life living in Europe during those horrific times. In Lilac Girls we learn about the experimentation on women in Ravensbruck concentration camp, based on a true story.

Jud
Death in Live Oak by Jame Grippando

4
Excellent book by Grippando. Kept me on the edge of my seat throughout.

Elizabeth
The Chalk Man by C. J. Tudor

4
THE CHALK MAN is a good book. But it has been overly praised. You will enjoy the book more if you don't let all of the five-star reviews set your expectations too high. Probably it's the end of THE CHALK MAN that grabs so many great reviews. Although the reader knows already that a certain character is flawed, the ending italicizes and boldfaces "flawed." I thought this end was funny, though. I know the author did not intend this reaction. But see if you don't agree with me.

Richard N B
The Hidden Child by Camilla Läckberg

4
This is the fifth book in the series featuring crime writer Erica Falck and Detective Patrik Hedström, in the village of Fjällbacka, Sweden. However, it’s the first one I’ve read. Läckberg uses a dual time line to tell this story. There are the events of 1945, when one young couple’s plans are shattered by prejudice and violence, and there is the current-day mystery of an artifact that threatens to reveal long-held secrets. I look forward to reading more of this series.

Liz
The Escape Artist by Brad Meltzer

4
After a slow start this book really picks up. Nola Brown has had a very difficult childhood. She is now an adult working as an artist in residence for the army, which allows her to travel wherever she desires in order to draw pictures of the things she sees. Getting ready to leave Alaska she decides at the last minute to give her seat on the plane to another young woman. The plane crashes. Everyone perishes. Was Nola the target? Was it an accident or deliberate? If deliberate is there a government coverup? Nola's quest is to find the answers.

Robin
Storm Crossed by Dani Harper

5
Dani Harper takes my breathe away. Her creativity and imagination have built a words where Fae and Humans come together in the most mind-blowing ways. From sizzling hot men to beautiful, resilient, determined women, as well as an action-packed plot that will keep you turning the pages, this book (as well as the whole series) is not to be missed.

Rebecca
The One by John Marrs

5
First released in the United Kingdom, THE ONE follows six couples as they use the "Match Your DNA" service to determine their soulmate. The science has been in place for 10 years and has changed countless lives, so what could go wrong? "How far would you go to find The One?" The premise was so intriguing and unique that I couldn't turn the pages fast enough...yet I didn't want it to end either! There were more twists and turns in this story than any other book I've read, making THE ONE one of my top 3 favorite thrillers EVER, joining the ranks of THE MARRIAGE LIE by Kimberly Belle and THE VANISHING YEAR by Kate Moretti! I will be recommending this one to everyone!

KATE
The Family Next Door by Sally Hepworth

5
Gripping domestic thriller of page-turning amazingness. The twists, oh and the turns in this intricate group of families in the quaint neighborhood. Sally Hepworth tells a lovely and intricate twisted tale that you'll be wanting to call her (I SO wanted to but didn't of course want to be stalkerish, ha!) or your book BFF and say "OMG!!!" As I laid in bed until dark-thirty in the early hours, under quilts, flipping page after page and certainly gasping out loud on several occasions I have to say READ THIS BOOK! Sally is a genius storyteller that has this aspiring writer want to be near her so I learn by osmosis the same kind of writing magic she possesses. Bravo! 5 big golden, twinkly stars!!

Sheree
Sing, Unburied,Sing by Jesmyn Ward

5
This book deserves all the hype it has obtained. I just saw "The Florida Project" and this book reminded me of that movie. Both had dysfunctional mothers with young kids who made poor choices. The kids had to basically take care of themselves while their self-centered mothers ignored them. A great read!

Esther
The Great Halifax Explosion by John U. Bacon

4
I very seldom read nonfiction but I was not familiar with this incident and the book had such good reviews, I was anxious to read it. The story is told from the perspective of people who survived. It's written chronologically so it gives the prelude, the collision, the explosion and the aftermath of this horrific incident. The detail given of the moment of the explosion gave me chills. An excellent, well-written book.

Sherri
A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman

4
Both my husband and I read this book after it was recommended to him by his mother who read it in her book club. For some reason she thought he would enjoy a book about a grumpy, old man. Imagine. It is more than that though - insight into the struggle of an introverted widow trying to move past his wish to join his wife in death instead of continuing to live in a cruel, lonely world where no one knows how to behave properly and follow the rules of life. I found it a bit hard to get into, but enjoyed the poignant scenes dealing with Ove's grief and the humor of his reactions to things. Also, the author's writing style was unique and kept you reading - short chapters with repetition of key phrases beginning and end. Watching the movie.

Nancy
The Life She Was Given by Ellen Marie Wiseman

5
It’s truly a sad but excellent story about a child named Lilly.

Ann
What Alice Forgot by Liane Moriarty

4
The story had me wanting to keep reading so that I could see how the main character dealt with her memory loss and what would happen in the end. It was an enjoyable read and the story moved along well. It also gave me a few things to think about on how our lives change, for the better or worse, and how that affects those around us.

Heather
The Women in the Castle by Jessica Shattuck

3
There are so many excellent books set during WW II. Unfortunately, this just isn’t one of them.

Heather
We Were the Lucky Ones by Georgia Hunter

4
Based on the author’s family’s experiences during WW II, this book tells an astonishing story.

Susan
The Wife Between Us by Greer Hendricks and Sarah Pekkanen

5
Suspense novel that will surprise even the most jaded reader. As Nellie prepares to marry Richard -- who she describes as too good to be true -- she is haunted by her past, and the feeling she is being stalked. Vanessa, once married to Richard, tries to warn his new bride what he is truly like. Won't say more, because I thought the book blurb gave too much away...

Beth
The Forest by Edward Rutherfurd

4
Loved this sweeping historical novel covering 900 years of history of the the New Forest in England. Now I want to visit!

Heather
Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng

5
One of the best books I’ve read in years! Highly recommend it.

Jo Rose
Garden of Small Beginnings by Abbi Waxman

5
Even though the protagonist is a young widow and I am a recent widow (not young) I loved this book. It's about a thirtyish woman and her kids and family and a gardening class full of interesting people. I laughed out loud. (I seldom read anything but mysteries and thrillers.)

Izella
The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah

4
Was a little disappointed with the book. Not what I usually pick but loved her last book so much. I guess Alaska did not hold my interest and it was very brutal.

Paula
Red Sparrow by Jason Matthews

5
Not my normal style but with the movie coming out I decided to read it. Very good. Sucks you in. Suspenseful but not unbeliavable. The only thing that threw me were the Russian names, but this should not be a deterrent at all.

Karen
A Column of Fire by Ken Follett

4
A great historical fiction read. It's a very big book, over 900 pages, but it moves along pretty quickly.

Joanne
American Wolf: A True Story of Survival and Obsession in the West by Nate Blakeslee

5
A fascinating and heartbreaking story of the Alpha female of a pack of Yellowstone wolves, the wolf watchers who keep an eye on them, and the politics of wolf reintroduction.

Kate
The Woodcutter's Wife by David Johnson

5
Interesting read heartwarming and inspiring.

Debra
Beneath a Scarlet Sky by Mark Sullivan

5
Reading this beautifully-written book gave me insight and understanding into what had happened in Italy during WWII. It both won my heart and broke my heart. The characters came alive and the descriptions of the beauty of Italy were breathtaking. When we meet Pino Lella, he is loving his life, his family and his country. As WWII came to Italy, Pino's life began changing and it never stopped. Pino was given many years on this earth. Years filled with youth and adventure, bravery and heartache, love and passion, surprises and changes, and choices and consequences. Such a well-written book that was obviously a labor of love for the author. This is a story that needed to be told, experienced and remembered.

Susan
The Midwife’s Revolt by Jodi Daynard

4
Great story and believable characters. Definitely enjoyed it.

Dorothy
One Perfect Lie by Lisa Scottoline

4
Really enjoyed reading this book. It is a page-turner as one is very curious to see what happens. I thought I had figured out the ending and I was incorrect!

Simonne
Britt-Marie was Here by Fredrik Backman

1
A female version A MAN CALLED OVE. The book was pretty predictable and, to me, irritating. It tries to be cute and funny, but the characters are far from believable.

Jackie
Dark in Death by J. D. Robb

5
One of my favorite authors. Her characters are well developed and all of her stories keep you interested from start to finish. I look forward to each new book.

Allison
His Last Letter by Jeane Westin

3
Interesting story about Elizabeth I of England.

Jane
The Bookshop at Water’s End by Patti Callahan Henry

3
The strength of female friendships and loyalties coupled with long-held secrets make for an interesting read.

Nancy
The Tea Girl of Hummingbird Lane by Lisa See

5
Great book!

Tanya
Killer Librarian by Mary Lou Kirwin

4
The first in a series by this author. I enjoyed it a lot. I love mysteries with some romance thrown in, too. I will definitely look for Book 2 when it comes out.

Marcia
Motherhood by Sheila Heti

1
This was one of the worst books I've ever read! I forced myself to finish it so I could give an informed review. The entire book is the main character/narrator of the story trying to decide whether to have a baby or not. It was depressing and boring - as was she! Another aspect of the book is that the main character flips coins to answer her questions about her self and life. Thus, there are pages of her asking questions and getting the answers from the flipped coins. It was ridiculous. Don't waste your time on this one!!! (Reviewing an advanced copy I was given.)

Marcia
Cave of Bones by Anne Hillerman

5
I enjoyed this well-written mystery. I hadn't read her books before, but will do so again. Tribal Police Officer Bernadette, Bernie, is caught up in a story of a problem teenage girl, Annie, and a missing counselor. Annie was the last person to have contact with the missing man. However, there is also the intrigue of a second missing man, and who is stealing Native American artifacts? The book is well written and it's nice to have female main characters. However, since it's part of a series, it sometimes felt that there were many characters from the past. I did like this book though. (Reviewing an advance copy I was given.)

Marcia
Alternate Side by Anna Quindlen

4
I always enjoy Quindlen's books. This one relates the story of Nora and Charlie who live on a dead-end street/neighborhood in NY. The story introduces the neighbors/friends and the closeness of the group. However, violence erupts over a parking place. The victim is the handyman and Charlie is a witness. Nora and Charlie see the event with different eyes and emotions. It brings out the other problems with their relationship. The book is well written and the characters well developed. (Reviewing an advance copy I received.)

Marcia
The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion

5
Is this a literary masterpiece? Absolutely not! However, if you just want a fun, fast read, this is the book for you. Professor Don is a genetics genius with Asberger's syndrome. To find a wife, he compiles a questionnaire to find the perfect woman. He meets bartender Rosie and formulates a plan to find her real father. I loved both the main characters and the story of their relationship. I actually laughed out loud, which I never do while reading. It's just an enjoyable read.

Claire
Keep You Safe by Melissa Hill

4
Most parents don’t think twice on whether to immunize their children. In this book, two sets of parents decide not to immunize for two different reasons. How responsible should you be when your child becomes ill? This is a great book for a book club.

Nonie
The Wife by Alafair Burke

4
A great mystery/thriller. I had no idea until the end of the book who did what. The characters were developed. It was one of those that you wanted to keep reading until you found out the solution. I had no clue until I read the ending.

Judy
The Marriage Pact by Michelle Richmond

5
This is a story of a married couple who join a pact and after they join, they find that it is not something they want to be involved with, but there is no way to get out. This book keeps you on the edge of your seat with its thrilling scenes and the psychological thoughts. I recommended it to my daughters' book club and they are reading it this month.

Anita
Orphan #8 by Kim van Alkemade

5
This was a wonderful novel based on facts. Though disturbing at times, it was very well written and interesting. Rachel Rabinowitz is placed in the Herbew Infant Home in 1919. There she is, one of 8 children used for experimentation of X-ray treatments. Dr. Mildred Solomon is conducting the experiments for research. In 1954, Rachel is now a nurse on the hospice floor of a hospital in Manhattan. She is stunned to learn one of her patients is the same Dr. Solomon. Now she learns more about what happened to her as a child, and has to decide whether to exact her revenge on this woman. This was an excellent book!

Lois
Life Without Summer by Lynne Griffin

5
This book touched me. Two strangers meet as patient and psychologist and each deals with their own problems and tragedies in their lives. The two intersect in an unusual way and thus concludes the story.

Judy
The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood

2
This book -- and it's been around a long time -- does not fascinate me as the idea of women only being valuable if they have working reproductive organs is totally against everything that I believe and stand for.

Aimee
Midnight at the Bright Ideas Bookstore by Matthew Sullivan

4
This book is a mystery that kept me listening. There is sadness and tragedy in the story, but there is also closure, which many readers will appreciate.

Thomas
Racing the Devil by Charles Todd

5
This was a very good book.

Donna
The Wanted by Robert Crais

4
I enjoy the Elvis Cole and Joe Pike characters. There wasn't as much humor in this book as in the previous series, but these guys have been through a lot, so all the wise cracks wouldn't be appropriate.

Debbie
Home by Nightfall by Charles Finch

2
I was excited to be reading an English mystery, but that excitement quickly disappeared and loathing entered the story. Charles Finch attempts to impress with eloquent language, but he missteps in his grammar during this endeavor. I spent too much time rereading sentences to figure the writer's intention and lost all enjoyment of the story. The story seems to have left my memory immediately after the final chapter. Nothing in the story remains to ponder. The journey into the English countryside provoked nothing but ennui.

Debbie
The Whistler by John Grisham

3
John Grisham writes technical novels, but with an ease that allows the "common folk" to enjoy the story. The novel deals with the Indian reservations and casinos on the reservation. I do not know what percentage of the story relates fact, but the story fills me with wonder and awe. The ending of the novel seems too tame, and I do not feel that the ending could be so calm. The greed of people haunts the story. When is wealth, too much? The characters present interesting backgrounds, but the reader never learns the true mysteries of the characters. The novel presents an easy read but fails to delve into the character's psyche.

Lorraine
Lies by T. M. Logan

5
4.5 stars. I was lucky enough to get to read this as an ARC from a friend. It is a great read with a twist. I have always prided myself on being able to figure out most thriller/suspense plot lines, but this one had a turn in storyline even I did not figure out.

MARILYN
A Nickel's Worth of Skim Milk by Robert J. Hastings

4
A fun read, a trip down memory lane for those of us who lived through the Depression. The illustrations were as much fun as the memories.

Sandy
The Motive by John Lescroart

5
A wonderful murder mystery and a great trial. I became really involved with all the characters and was very happy to have this book to read on a gloomy, rainy day.

Bonnie
Triangle: The Fire that Changed America by David Von Drehle

5
Great nonfiction about the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire in the early 1900s and so much more. Fascinating reading about the early labor movement, women's rights, Tammany Hall. One of the best books I've read in a while.

Martha
Sisters First by Jenna Bush Hager and Barbara Pierce Bush

5
This Democrat thoroughly enjoyed the Bush twins' account of their lives as twins, daughters, and granddaughters in a well-known president's family. They include both sides of their family and are most appreciative of the life they have known. They enjoyed meeting the Obama daughters and gave them some advice about living in the White House. I recommend this to anyone who enjoys learning about a famous family without being heavy on the politics.

Martha
The Dry by Jane Harper

4
Set in Australia during one of the worst droughts ever, this mystery begins with a federal agent returning to his hometown. One of his best friends and the friend's family have been murdered. Implored by parents to remain and solve the crime, Aaron Falk discovers that secrets between him and his best friends come into play as he searches into how and why his friend's family were slaughtered. I found it to be a great read.

Martha
Night Moves by Jonathan Kellerman

5
Alex Delaware, psychiatrist, and Mil Sturgis, police lieutenant, collaborate once again investigating a strange murder. A family arrives home from dining out and the father discovers a dead body. The body's hands have been removed (so no fingerprints) and the face has been destroyed with rifle shot (so no photo to identify). The situation is complicated by a second murder and leads to a tangled set of events, past and present. I am a big fan of the Alex Delaware series and Kellerman is right-on in psychological factors.

Anna
Halsey Street by Naima Coster

5
Absolutely loved it. I couldn't put it down. Highly recommend.

Gail
The Bungalow by Sarah Jio

4
I really enjoyed this book about two young nurses friends from school, going off to be nurses in the South Pacific during WWII after the bombing of Pearl Harbor. Their friendship becomes estranged as they share in nursing duties, risk falling in love and even witness a murder. Fast and easy reading.

Donna
The Husband Hour by Jamie Brenner

3
Lauren is the widow of Rory, a promising player for the NHL who joined the army Rangers and was killed in Iraq. Matt, a documentary filmmaker is gathering information on Rory as an American hero. Betrayals and secrets in his research show that Rory was a victim of multiple concussions causing the focus of the film and people's lives to change.

Kay
What Alice Forgot by Liane Moriarity

4
A funny, heartwarming tale that has some unusual twists and turns.

Jud
The Maw by Taylor Zajonc

4
THE MAW by Taylor Zajonc is a book that fans of Cussler are bound to enjoy. Caves have fascinated people for hundreds of years and many are still not fully explored. Zajonc has written a story that kept my interest throughout. While I have not yet read any of Zajonc’s Wrecking Crew series, I certainly plan to add them to my to-be-read pile. Zajonc shows promise as an author, which is why I believe THE MAW deserves 4/5 stars. *A e-book copy of this book was the only consideration received in exchange for this review.*

Jud
The Widow by Fiona Barton

4
Bestselling author Fiona Barton pens another winner about the precarious relationship between a wife and her secretive husband.

Nadine
The Girl You Left Behind by Jojo Moyes

5
Sophie Lefèvre must keep her family safe while her adored husband, Édouard, fights at the front. When their town falls to the Germans in the midst of World War I, Sophie is forced to serve them every evening at her hotel. From the moment the new Kommandant sets eyes on Sophie’s portrait, painted by her artist husband, a dangerous obsession is born, one that will lead Sophie to make a dark and terrible decision. Almost a century later, Sophie’s portrait hangs in the home of Liv Halston, a wedding gift from her young husband before his sudden death. After a chance encounter reveals the portrait’s true worth, a battle begins over its troubled history and Liv’s world is turned upside all over again.

Alice
The Rent Collector by Camron Wright

5
Read for one of my book groups. Started slow for me and I thought, "not another one I'm not crazy about." Then all of a sudden it grabbed me and I ended up loving the book.

Tessa B C
Bookplate Special by Lorna Barrett

3
Book Three in the Booktown Mystery series. This is a typical cozy mystery, with a cast of colorful characters, and a nosy amateur sleuth who simply cannot help herself when it comes to investigating a crime on her doorstep. It’s not great literature, but it’s entertaining and a quick read.

Elaine
The Red Notebook by Antoin Laurain

4
A very enjoyable read with mystery and romance bringing a couple together after many close calls.

Margaret
Girl Unknown by Karen Perry

4
ARC from Henry Holt & Co. The writing team of Paul Perry and Karen Gellece has written a gripping, dark, psychological novel that I found hard to put down. It's about a loving family who had some problems but, when Zoe enters their lives, finds their world turned upside down. Zoe claims to be the daughter of college professor, David, and he immediately invites her into his family's lives. Story is told in alternating voices of David and his wife, Caroline, who sees through Zoe's conniving, selfish and mysterious ways. Interesting to read the different viewpoints. I found David's character was much too gullible. It was hard to relate to him and I wondered when he would take charge of the situation. Well plotted and a page-turner.

LouAnn
The Iguana Tree by Michel Stone

4
This is a book bringing to life the story of immigration. I don't think I ever realized what the immigrants coming over from Mexico go through. It is not simply sliding under a fence. This book tells about Hector and Luila, a young married couple, and their trials and tribulations crossing the border and what follows after. Michel Stone has also written a sequel, BORDER CHILD, which I am reading and enjoying now.

Gil
Faithful Place by Tana French

5
Francis (Frank) Mackey, left home as a teenager 23 years ago to run away with his girlfriend Rosie. Only Rosie did not show up. Now, after all these years, Rosie's suitcase shows up in an abandoned building in Faithful Place and Frank, now an Dublin undercover agent, returns to investigate. What happened to Rosie? Is she dead? Did she go to England by herself to start a new life? Complicating the situation for Frank is his dysfunctional family. His father is an abusive alcoholic, his mother is controlling, and his older brother Shea is a bully who always disliked him. Little wonder that Frank wanted to get away. I liked the book, it was easy to read, and I always looked forward to getting back to it. Highly recommend.

Jean
Murder at Spirit Falls by Barbara Deese and Dorothy Olson

5
This is the first book in a series with the central characters being the members of the No Ordinary Women book club. It is a murder mystery with the main setting on a lake in WI. It is well written, has interesting characters, and a (somewhat) surprise ending. Enjoyed it very much and look forward to more in the series.

Nora
A Dog Walks Into a Nursing Home by Sue Halpern

3
I was surprised that the book focused more on the residents of the nursing home than on the dog, but it was interesting to read her thoughts on the interactions between her dog and the residents.

Marty
Good Karma by Christina Kelly

5
GOOD KARMA is Christina Kelly’s first novel. I read the book prior to attending her session at the Savannah Book Festival. The novel, as well as the author, were both entertaining, witty and engaging. It is a quick read and the characters are very likeable. I attended the SBF with my five sisters and planned in advance to meet Tina - she’s from our home town of Ossining, NY! She kept the audience laughing while she told of her journey toward completion of GOOD KARMA.

Rita
The Physician by Noah Gordon

5
Although this awesome book was 762 pages in length, it held my attention in every line. It tells the story of a young orphan boy who has a "gift" and his journey and passion to become a physician even though he had no money and a limited education. He faced hardships in his native England and had to disguise himself as a Jew to attend a medical school in Persia. Along the way, he found danger, love, education and medicine. This is the first book of a trilogy, and I definitely need to get the other books. This is one of the best books I have ever read.

Susan
This Is How It Always Is by Laurie Frankel

5
Amazing storyline and characters you can really sympathize with. Loved everyone of them. The story needs to be read by all junior high and high school children. Just my opinion.

Susan
Pachinko by Min Jin Lee

4
I really enjoyed learning about the culture and history involved in the story. There were times I didn’t connect with characters but overall I still recommend this book.

Suzanne
The Art of Crash Landing by Melissa DeCarlo

4
While the main character is quite flawed, I enjoyed the book. The characters are very real and there is a major twist at the end you do not see coming. My favorite quote from the book was, "Normal people are just people you don't know very well."

Karen
Maybe Esther by Katja Petrowskaja - translated by Shelley Frisch

5
Katja's point of view made this an interesting story. She delved into the history of her family and found some surprising information. Her research took her to the places where her family lived and died. She also read and talked to people who might remember her family and details about them. Sadly, not all the information was pleasant because during World War II many of them were murdered because they were Jewish. Even sadder was the reaction of countries where this occurred who covered over the mass graves without acknowledging the dead. Katja now focuses on the wonderful legacy of her family who were gifted teachers of the deaf and other subjects.

Margaret
Watch Me by Jody Gehrman

4
From St. Martin's Press via NetGalley. This is my first novel by Ms. Gehrman. She has written a psychological thriller that got off to a slow start. I found it was predictable at times but interesting enough to keep me wondering. There are 2 protagonists: Kate, a 38-yr-old college professor who had written a best-seller and is now teaching writing, and Sam, a 22-yr-old student in Kate's class. He is so obsessed with her that he has their future planned together & will stop at nothing to get what he wants. Sam is a psychopath who stalks Kate, gets to know her, & tries to take control of her life. Kate makes poor choices about Sam until she realizes what is going on. Disturbing thoughts by Sam made this a dark novel. Author did a great job!

Rebecca
Hollywood Homocide by Kellye Garrett

4
Cozy mystery with a diverse cast. Excellent.

Dorothy
The Summons by John Grisham

3
Not as good as most of his books but I did enjoy it. You wanted to know where the money he found came from. It was dragged out but had a surprise ending.

Bonnie
Educated by Tara Westover

5
This memoir is though-provoking, beautifully written, and very readable. I can't recommend it highly enough. And if you think your life has challenges, read this and quit your bellyaching. Tara Westover is one amazing woman.

Sherry
Love and Treasure by Ayelet Waldman

3
Very slow-moving book.

Tessa B C
Miss Julia Hits the Road by Ann B. Ross

3
Book Four in the popular series starring Miss Julia, a widow of a certain age. I just love Miss Julia, who frequently gets embroiled in one scandal/scheme or another when she jumps to conclusions and/or fails to fully understand the implications of what she’s been told. But her heart is always in the right place. Miss Julia is just a hoot, and I was laughing aloud at several scenes.

Gail
Need to Know by Karen Cleveland

5
I think this will be one of the best books of the year. There are a lot of twists and turns and even when you think you have it all figured out you don’t. I look forward to more books from Karen Cleveland.

Thomas
Poison by John Lescroart

4
Very good read. I liked it very much.

Therese
Angle of Repose by Wallace Stegner

5
I read this originally in 1980, but a new book group I have joined decided to read it. Still loved it so much. I live in San Jose, which is right next to the Almaden Mines mentioned in the book. It is a good read, but makes for a great discussion for a group.

Alice
The Silent Sister by Diane Chamberlain

4
Excellent and fast read. Couldn’t put it down. Nor could my husband.

Sandy
Black Lands by Belinda Bauer

5
Great psychological thriller!! Eighteen years ago Billy Peters disappeared without a trace. Everyone in town believes he was murdered, after all serial killer Arnold Avery later admitted to killing six children and burying them on the desolate moor surrounding their small English village. Only Billy's mother is convinced her son is still alive, and she relentlessly awaits his return. I couldn't put this one down!!

Rebecca
Woman Last Seen in Her Thirties by Camille Pagan

5
Middle-aged woman (Maggie) finds herself after husband (Adam) leaves her for younger woman. Okay, that simple description makes this book sound mundane and predictable, but please believe me when I tell you that it was not! It started out light and humorous, so I was not at all expecting the depth of emotion sprinkled throughout and especially at the end. #Bawling. Since my mom passed away less than 3 months ago and her outlook on life was so very similar to Maggie's mom, portions of this book really struck a chord with me and definitely contributed to my extreme emotional reaction to the story. There are so many other themes in this book, and I would highly recommend it!

Linda
Unraveled by Helen Hardt

3
This is the final book in the long-drawn-out series about the Steel family. The patriarch of the family and long thought to be dead has reappeared on an island in the Caribbean. On an adjacent island is a facility of horrors where kidnapped women and children are abused before being sold into slavery. Brad Steel knows about it but is not personally involved. His former partners Tom Simpson and Larry Wade are deceased and Theo Mathias appears and protects his daughter Ruby Lee. Wendy Madigan appears and wants Brad and her biological son Ryan Steel to die with her. But Ruby is engaged to Ryan and is not ready to lose her fiancé. As a former police detective, she takes the matter into her own hands.

Linda
Starry Night by Debbie Macomber

5
A cute love story of a dogged reporter looking for a scoop and who finds a reclusive writer who everyone is trying to find. Carrie Slayton finds Finn Dalton and he is anything but gracious about being found. They are snowed in for a few days and grow to like each other. Looking at the stars one night with his arm around her, both felt the “zing” that meant friendship was a bit more. She returned to Chicago and debated about writing the article. If she did, she could get the promotion she was promised and be assigned real stories instead of the society fluff. But Finn’s solitary lifestyle would be ruined as others would find him. She couldn’t do this to him. How will a relationship work when he is in Alaska and she is in Chicago?

vera
Bound for Life by Alexis Abbott

4
Serena's family was part of the Mafia, but her dad is dead now. She is trying to take care of her Mom and hold down a small shop. But looks like the Mafia has sought her out once again. In steps Bruno from her past, trying to save her. Lots has changed since their teenage romance. Gosh, so many killings and lots of action. This book is Book 1 of 3. Have the other two to read also.

Elizabeth
Imagine Me Gone by Adam Haslett

3
If you prefer literary fiction to plain ol’ fiction, you can’t do much better than Adam Haslett. And if you would be happy to find modern-day literature that can hold its own with the old masters, again, Haslett’s writing does that. His IMAGINE ME GONE is “literature of the highest order,” as Peter Carey said. You might be put off, though, by too much detail. It may seem sometimes that, although Haslett goes on and on, the storyline is not advanced. As for story, there isn't much. Rather, it's a thoughts-and-feelings book.

Francisca E B
A Piece of the World by Christina Baker Kline

3
3.5 stars. As she did in ORPHAN TRAIN, Kline uses multiple time lines to tell the story. I thought Christina Olson was a marvelous character, and appreciated the way Kline took what little is known of this real woman to weave this narrative. I liked that she focused more attention on Kline’s relationships with her family and friends than on her connection to Wyeth.

Jola
One of Us Is Lying by Karen M. McManus

4
This is a YA book but it had some twists to keep me turning the pages.

Bridget
All the Beautiful Girls by Elizabeth J. Church

5
Loved this book about a girl who loved to dance. She was orphaned and raised in a loveless home by an aunt and uncle. Made her way to Las Vegas in the 60s and became a showgirl rather than the dancer she wanted to be. The main character was so realistic, she felt like a real person. The atmosphere was so well created, that it felt as if I had time traveled to Las Vegas of the 1960s.

Bridget
Next Year in Havana by Chanel Cleeton

5
Two stories in one: daughter of wealthy family in the late 1950s, granddaughter of that daughter in present time. Their stories are connected. I think I liked the 1950s story just a little better! Finished reading this book a week ago and I'm still thinking about it!

Betty
When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi

5
A book that everyone who is going to die should read. A profoundly moving memoir by a young neurosurgeon faced with a terminal cancer diagnosis who attempts to answer the question, "What makes a life worth living?"