This contest period's winners were Colleen P., Erin U. and Noreen B., who each received a copy of ALL WE EVER WANTED by Emily Giffin and SPYMASTER by Brad Thor.
Betty
People of the Book by Geraldine Brooks
The story of the Sarajevo Haggadah packs quite a punch. The stories of its history are dramatic, sad and sometimes shocking. It's a great read.
Lynn
The Death of Mrs. Westaway by Ruth Ware
First book I've read by Ms Ware. I liked it!
Annmarie
Alternate Side by Anna Quindlen
This is a great book - a good read. Quindlen fans will not be disappointed!
Kim
The #1 Ladies Detective Agency by Alexander McCall Smith
Reading this book was like visiting with an old friend whom you haven't seen in years. The characters are so lifelike you feel you know them, and you will want to book a trip to Botswana and drink bush tea. I love this series, or rather the few books I read along the way. Now I've decided to start from the beginning and I suggest you give it a go too -- well worth your time.
Doreena
A Stranger in the House by Shari Lapena
OMG I could not put this book down!!! Just when I thought I had it figured out Shari threw in another curve. A true psychological thriller, and I totally didn't see that ending coming! I love how Detective Rasbach was in this book as well as in THE COUPLE NEXT DOOR. Can't wait to read more from Shari. I like her writing style.
Doreena
Something in the Water by Catherine Steadman
Wow! I have to learn to stop reading so much beforehand about a book. I read so much about this book, so I had huge expectations. Well the first chapter got me hooked! After that it went kind of slow until the twelfth chapter and OMG things took off, I couldn't read it fast enough! And I thought I figured out the ending but I had it a little wrong, didn't see that coming either! I heard this is being made into a movie. I'll totally see it.
Janet
With You Always by Jody Hedlund
A Christian historical romance, I was expecting this to be about children traveling on the orphan train out west. Instead it was an adult character traveling to Illinois to find work for her orphaned sisters. Of course, she falls in love and is more like a fairy tale.
Mary
I Found You by Lisa Jewell
It kept you guessing throughout the book. I enjoyed the suspense. You never knew what was going to happen next.
S
In a Dark, Dark Wood by Ruth Ware
Author Leonora (Lee, Leo, Nora, L.N.) Shaw wakes up in the hospital with little memory of what happened at a weekend hen party at a remote house out in the woods. A well-written mystery that keeps you guessing as Nora tries to figure out what happened. Can she be trusted?
Rita
Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman
What a fun novel, both funny and heartbreaking! I fell in love with Eleanor and all the quirky characters in the story! I couldn’t put the book down and never wanted the story to end! It’s just a charming story - I loved it!
Elizabeth
Zeitoun by David Eggers
This is the astonishing true story of a Syrian American who stayed in his home after Hurricane Katrina and helped others caught in the storm and then was arrested and imprisoned wrongly due to ethnic profiling. What happened to him was shocking and shows how the rule of law can devolve so quickly in a crisis. His courage and humanity are truly awe-inspiring.
Christine
Slade House by David Mitchell
This is a spooky little book about twin ghosts who must eat a soul every nine years to stay "alive." It is divided into 5 chapters, taking place nine years apart. Some parts are repetitive, but it doesn't distract from the storyline. It tells how the ghosts became the evil spirits they are and how they stay that way. I found it entertaining and even learned some British slang in the process!
Joanne
Send Down the Rain by Charles Martin
As usual, a great book with a spiritual overtone. His books are usually based in the South and this is familiar territory to me. His characters are always strong.
Judy
The Killer Angels by Michael Shaara
Its easy to see why this book won a Pulitzer Prize! The story of the Battle of Gettysburg in the Civil War as told through the eyes of some who participated, both from the North and the South. The thoughts about the reason for the war flow from the minds of the characters as well as the details of the movement of troops during the battle. Would recommend this book to anyone who loves history.
Linda
Into the Night by Cynthia Eden
FBI agents Macey Night and Bowen Murphy are part of the FBI’s BAU group, but their particular team is composed of agents who have all had intimate connections to a serial killer. Once a victim of Daniel Haddox, Macey, has been trying to find the former doctor and bring him down. She and Bowen are sent to North Carolina where a body has been found with the same cuts that Haddox made on Macey. Have they finally located the killer doctor? Lots of twists in this book that you won’t see coming! A great book deserving of more than 5 stars.
Linda
His Sinful Touch by Candace Camp
With the help of Alex Moreland, Sabrina learns her name but doesn’t remember anything about her life. As they follow up on clues about her past, they find they have psychic links to one another. She knows about the nightmare he has of being locked in a dungeon, and he feels her feelings of dread and unease. When her guardian finds her, she is terrified. This man had been a friend of her father’s and she had lived with his family after her parents died. Did he have something to do with her flight from the country town to London? Was he responsible for the bruises on her face and arm that Alex found when she first appeared on his doorstep? Both of them are in agreement that she not return with her guardian until they know the truth.
Linda
A Duke in the Night by Kelly Bowen
August Faulkner, the Duke of Holloway, is known as a ruthless businessman and he became wealthy by his own hard work. He met the unorthodox Clara Hayward at a ball ten years earlier and has never forgotten her. He recently purchased the school that she inherited and has plans to raze the buildings and develop the land. Now he has met Clara again and sparks are still there. The Hayward family has turned down his offer to buy their shipping line but what will Clara say when she learns he is the one who bought the school. He can’t lose her now that he’s found her again. How can he make it right so that they might have a future together?
Linda
Wolf Slayer by Linda Thomas-Sundstrom
Great love story between a sexy werewolf and a woman sworn to eradicate werewolves. Tess Owens comes from a well-known family of werewolf hunters. One night, she senses a Were nearby and dares him to show himself. He does, in his human form, and she is upset when she realizes she is sexually attracted to Jonas Dale, her new neighbor. Jonas is there with his sister Gwen and hoped that the move would save her from the Reaper. But he has found them and Jonas is left wondering how he can save his sister and the future of their race.
Linda
The First Kiss of Spring by Emily March
A former child star who has had to face many demons, Josh Tarkington has moved to Eternity Springs and opened an automotive garage. He hopes to find peace and serenity that the town is known for. Then he meets Caitlin Timberlake who turns his peaceful life upside down. She has determined that Josh is the man for her and tells him so. He tells her he will never marry nor have children and relates a little of his past to her. Caitlin told him that he can throw down surrender all he wants but she’s declaring he’s under siege.
Linda
Macbeth by Jo Nesbo
Macbeth, the good-natured and much-loved head of SWAT, is talked into going after a more important position by his lady love. The woman known as Lady is owner of a casino and manipulates Macbeth into getting the power she desires. He comes to desire it too and it destroys him. He turns back to drugs and becomes a pawn of the drug kingpin. He turns against his former friends and the man who took him in and raised him and ultimately faces loneliness. I am a fan of the Harry Hole novels but did not care for this book at all. I found it to be dark and depressing.
Linda
Dearborn by Jenni Moen
Willow Ryker has been in love with Quinn Dearborn forever it seemed. They are not teens anymore and Quinn is home suffering from PTSD after being discharged from the Army. She lets him stay in a garage apartment while he helps renovate her house. All changes when she sees him running naked in the woods one night. They both believe he is suffering from sleepwalking but the truth is even stranger. For the town of Woodland Creek is made up of humans and two-natured beings who can shape shift into other animals. Willow just wanted to find a normal boyfriend and then Quinn came back into her life.
Bob
State of the Union by Brad Thor
The third in his series. They get better and better. This takes plane inside the White House, and the political dealings of his characters is amazing.
Linda
A Rogue of Her Own by Grace Burrowes
Charlotte Windham was resigned to remain a spinster but ended up as the last of the Windham sisters to marry. Lucas Sherbourne was a self-made man but was not titled and did not think he was socially equal to Charlotte. He came to call on Charlotte and kisses her. Locked in a passionate embrace, they are discovered by her aunt and uncle, the Duke of Moreland. A wedding is soon performed and Charlotte sets off for Wales with Lucas. There, he faces problems with his coal mine and an unscrupulous investor, but with Charlotte’s help everything soon runs smoothly. Their marriage did not start out as a love match but it turned into one.
Bob
Blowback by Brad Thor
Wow, these books are hard to put down. I'm looking forward to the next in the Scot Harvath series.
A very interesting book with a feel-good ending.
Linda
A Talent for Temptation by Sabrina Jeffries
A short story centering around Meriel Vyse, sister-in-law to Gregory Vyse, England’s spymaster. In gratitude for saving her life, she helps Gregory with spying. She has been seeing Quinn Raines for several months and keeps putting off his marriage proposals until he thinks she is in love with Gregory. Quinn is a member of an esteemed banking family and Meriel doesn’t think she is good enough to marry Quinn. He is determined to change her mind.
Dorothy
The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood
I did not like this book. Atwood’s writing is very good but I didn’t care for the subject matter. The reason I read the book is because it was A book cub choice, otherwise I never would have finished it. There wasn’t any happiness in it at all.
Miriam
The Life We Bury by Allen Eskens
Wonderful mystery/thriller about a college student, Joe, who has to do a biography of someone. He chooses Carl who is dying from cancer and is a murderer. Or is he?
Ruth
The Scarred Woman: A Department Q Novel by Jussi Adler-Olsen
Riveting novel by Denmark's leading crime writer.
Gretchen
The Death of Mrs. Westaway by Ruth Ware
Another fantastic story from the author of IN A DARK, DARK WOOD, THE WOMAN IN CABIN 10 and THE LYING GAME. It keeps you on the edge of your seat and you just want to keep on reading until it is finished.
Dorothy
The English Girl by Daniel Silva
Great spy novel, with many twists and turns.
Elizabeth
The Girl Before by J. P. Delaney
Two young women in their 20s rent a home that is an architectural masterpiece controlled by the architect. First Emma moves in because the rent is so cheap. But in exchange for the cheap rent, she agrees to the architect’s ridiculous demands for maintaining the home and completing periodic personal questionnaires. Later, after Emma is gone, Jane comes along. She, too, agrees to the architect’s same demands and moves in. Emma’s and Jane’s stories of craziness and lies are in short alternating chapters. The psychological conditions presented are real and possible, I suppose. But who would really agree to the architect’s ridiculous demands? That spoiled the story for me.
Nancy
Manhattan Beach by Jennifer Egan
Felt very much like a black and white 50s film noir. I enjoyed it very much. It made for a good book club discussion.
Beverlee
Bluebird, Bluebird by Attica Locke
A great story with an ending I didn't see coming!! It kept me in suspense as I learned about each of the character's back story. Can't wait to read more by Attica Locke!
Katherine
The Swans of Fifth Avenue by Melanie Benjamin
An interesting look at Truman Capote and the socialites of NYC.
Claire
The President is Missing by Bill Clinton and James Patterson
I was prepared for a totally different book and was very surprised to say that I really enjoyed this book. The storyline had me turning the pages to see what would happen next. It gave me an awful feeling of what would truly happen if our technology was taken away. Well worth reading no matter what party you belong to.
Nora
The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie
It is listed as a novel, but I have a feeling I was reading about his life without much embellishent. The cartoons included by Ellen Forney added clarity to the different situations he encountered along the way. The story brings home again how unfairly American Indians have been, and still are, treated in the U.S.
Tessa B C
Laura Lamont's Life in Pictures by Emma Straub
I wasn’t expecting great literature, and I wasn’t disappointed. It’s a rags-to-riches, poor-girl-marries-powerful-executive, money-can’t-buy-happiness story that would have easily been produced by the studio-system of Hollywood in the 1930s and ‘40s. The book is light on character development, but it’s a quick read, and although I found the plot somewhat predictable, I was content to go along for the ride.
Joanne
The Moscow Deception by Karen Robards
This is a #2 in the author’s Guardian series. It’s jam-packed with all kinds of adventure in the plot. You’re never quite sure what’s waiting around the corner. Only problem is it’s cliffhanger ending, as. it’s a series book. If only I would learn to wait until all books in a series are out before I read them!
Sue
Beartown by Fredrik Bachman
This novel is wonderful! Every description of the characters, their activities and the settings are carefully crafted. Handled difficult abuse incident with sensitivity and an unfortunate realistic outcome. Looking forward to the sequel.
Carol
The Home for Unwanted Girls by Joanna Goodman
A story that will touch your heart and make you angry that such things happened in the 50s and 60s. It made me immediately Google the Duplessis orphans.
Jay
Baby Teeth by Zoje Stage
I wondered, based on the book description, how disturbing this book would be and it is difficult to imagine a young child as a monster, but Hanna gets you there quickly. You want it to be a mistake and at times you want there to be a reason that she is the way she is. No parent is perfect and you can see how Suzette blames her mother for any shortcomings she has, but it’s hard to believe that she is the reason when she is rational and logical about her thoughts and feelings. She isn’t in denial, she’s hard on herself about her parenting skills. The book will make you cringe, make you cheer on these characters and hope for the best. Loved the book! I will be looking for the author’s next book.
Joanne
I've Got My Eyes on You by Mary Higgins Clark
This is another amazing story by a great storyteller. This touches on a sensitive subject. I think her family keeps her up to date with current issues. The storytelling is all Mary.
Sandy
A Memory of Violets by Hazel Gaynor
21-year-old Tilly Harper leaves the peace and beauty of her native Lake District for London to become assistant housemother at one of Mr. Shaw's Training Homes for Watercress and Flower Girls. For years, the homes have cared for London's orphaned and crippled flower girls, getting them off the streets. For Tilly, the appointment is a fresh start, a chance to leave her troubled past behind. This book was wonderful from beginning to end.
Matt
The Rise and Fall of the Dinosaurs by Steve Brusatte
A book by a young rock star (pun intended) of paleontology for the general public of readers. If you have any interest in the evolutionary history of the earth and its living organisms you should sample this book. Don't worry about all the long names of the animals. You don't have to remember them or pronounce them to understand this story. Just as important is a series of stories about other workers in the field (both living and dead). There is a simple discussion of continental drift and other science basics.
Blanche
The Immortalists by Chloe Benjamin
Four Jewish siblings go to a psychic who tells them the date of their demise. Unfolded is their journey into destiny. You are left asking yourself, "What would you do?" Enjoy!
Jan
Me Before You by Jojo Moyes
This is a romance book which is not my genre at all. The writing is fast-paced, entertaining but the entire story is boy meets girl, girl meets boy, don't like each other at first but slowly fall in love. The story is transparent and could not hold my interest. I read every word because we will discuss it in book club. There is nothing dramatic or mind-opening in the book. We know from the beginning what will happen. If you like romance, go for it.
Richard N B
Snow Falling on Cedars by David Guterson
At once a courtroom drama, a love story, a war story and a coming-of-age story, Guterson’s debut novel is a marvelous work depicting one man’s struggle against his baser instincts. A murder trial serves as the framework for exploring the complex relationships between Kabuo, Natsue and Ishmael.
Donna
Ten Beach Road by Wendy Wax
The interaction between the four main women characters drew me in and had me thinking about the book even while going about my daily activities. They are all from different backgrounds thrown together by financial crisis, and while they work on a house renovation they help each other work on personal issues, also with a tiny mystery thread woven through the book.
Guylaine
Then She Was Gone by Lisa Jewell
My! My! My! This was such a good book!!! At first, I was worried I would not be able to read it because "losing a child" stories always get me to the heart and I find them hard to read. The story broke my heart, but if I did not persevere, I would have missed out on a well-written and complex story with so many twists and turns. Lisa Jewell's writing is fantastic and the story is well structured and keeps you on your toes. I totally recommend this book.
pat
I Will Always Write Back by Martin Ganda and Caitlin Alifirenka
This book was an eye-opener regarding a young boy in Africa and how he interacts with a girl from America as they become pen pals at 12 years old. The culture shock for both of them was so interesting. I think the book could be read by any age and a lesson will be learned. We are different yet we are alike.
Peggy
The Women in the Castle by Jessica Shattuck
Although we did not all love this book we did agree that it was a good developer of character. It is the story of the life of three women living together in a castle with an older caretaker after World War II. The reader is introduced to the women prior to the war, including one of the women who worked with the Nazi youth. Their survival can be a bit graphic but realistic, like soldiers eating a horse, which did bother one of our readers. The relationship between these three women from very different backgrounds was believable. Their children, although not central to the main text, do play a role in the ending of the story. Although not an easy book to read, we felt it was worth reading for another view of World War II.
Shelly
Mona Lisa by Robyn Sheridan
Mona Lisa is all set for her wedding day when suddenly Alice, her fiance's mother, arrives to tell her Joe has changed his mind. He does not even have the decency to confront her himself but lets his mother do it. That starts Mona Lisa replaying in her mind all the warning signs she should have seen coming. As bad as it is, maybe it was for the better. Her dad, Chick sees no reason waiting and less than 24 hours after being left at the altar he has invited Dante over for Sunday dinner. Not the perfect timing for a date wouldn't you say?? Needless to say, she is upset and annoyed and has gone back to being alone in the apartment they were going to share as husband and wife.
Lynn
By Invitation Only by Dorothea Benton Frank
Classic tale of big-city girl marrying small-farm boy, but Dottie Frank makes this outing irresistibly engaging and fun!
Lisa
The Lighthouse Keeper's Daughter by Hazel Gaynor
Great past/present story (actually far past/past story) about strong women. Enjoyable read, especially here in North Carolina when a hurricane hits.
Debbie
In Prior's Wood by G. M. Malliet
I have enjoyed this series since the beginning, but this book lacked the panache of the earlier books. The author spent too much time describing each thought and action, that when an event happened, the reader had lost track of the event. I love the characters, but even the characters showed flatness and dullness. The book fell into such blandness, that not a scene remains in my memory. This could possibly be the demise of Max Tudor as future reading for me.
Debbie
A Fountain Filled With Blood by Julia Spencer-Fleming
Julia Spencer-Fleming writes an action-packed mystery that inserts a little religion into the story. My feelings for Clare changed during the story. I sometimes felt that Clare goes too far in proving herself to be worthy of respect. The story displays the downfall of greed and in keeping up appearances. Many of the characters pop in and out of the series, and some of the characters would be better omitted from the pages. The book provides an interesting and speedy read.
Debbie
Probable Claws by Rita Mae Brown
As a cat lover, I adore this series, but I do have a beef. Brown has too many animals and people, and too much conversation among the animals. The animals seem to act as a Greek chorus in explaining what is happening. Brown does use italics when the animals are speaking, but this disrupts the flow of the story. As usual, Rita Mae Brown utilizes her expertise in filling the book with lengthy and tedious information concerning some aspect of the story. The discussion of building and architecture went on and on, and lead to very little pertinent data. I enjoyed the jump back into 1787 and learning about the financial woes of the new country.
Kathy
A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles
My book group and I loved this book!
Lori
The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah
I loved the young girl in the story who comes of age as her family moves to Alaska for a fresh start for her father, a Vietnam vet and PTSD victim.
Joy
We Were the Lucky Ones by Georgia Hunter
This is based on the true happenings. It is a wonderful book - highly recommend it,
Joy
My Grandmother Asked Me to Tell You She's Sorry by Fredrik Bachman
A lovely book about fantasy and real life, as told through the eyes of a child. Just totally endearing.
Elizabeth
The Maid's Version by Daniel Woodrell
THE MAID’S VERSION is only partly a maid’s version of events that led to a horrible fire that killed many innocents at a dance. The narrator is the maid’s grandson. He, apparently, gathered more evidence, probably from his father. This short book contains not only the evidence; it also tells stories of some of those who died in the fire. Daniel Woodrell’s writing is difficult to read. He uses long sentences that often need commas to aid the reader’s understanding. I had to read many sentences twice. Readability was also impaired by a fragmented timeline. That is, the events, stories, and evidence skipped around throughout the book from 1956 to 1929 to 1933 to 1944 to 1929, etc.
Bonnie
The Book of M by Peng Shepherd
Interesting concept - people begin losing their shadows, which leads to them losing all memory. Confusion and fighting ensues.
Kathy
A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman
Grumpy 59-year-old widower wants to commit suicide but his nosy neighbors keep interfering.
Margaret
Believe Me by J. P. Delaney
This book was hard to follow at times and the constant references to Charles Baudelaire's book of poetry, Les Fleus du Mal, slowed the pace. I felt this novel was drowning in twisty details. I didn't appreciate the erotic sex scenes and references. It would have been nice to be forewarned because they were a turn-off for me. The protagonist, Claire, was messed up mentally, was promiscuous, would do anything to earn money, and used her acting abilities to make you wonder if she was for real or was she acting. Her backstory was interesting but didn't help to make me like her and I didn't care for any of the other characters either. The ending was absurd. It added nothing to the story and made the rest of the book hard to believe.
Maureen
Dreams of Falling by Karen White
I loved this book by Karen White! Multi-generational intrigue, love, friendship and more kept me glued to the pages. A really stunning novel set in the low country, South Carolina. Five stars from me!
Johanna
The Paris Wife by Paula McLain
The story of Hemingway's first wife Hadley.
Helen
Among the Mad by Jacqueline Winspear
The sixth book in her Maisie Dobbs series of novels. I've enjoyed them all and highly recommend them. It's important to begin with the first book.
Donna
Dreams of Falling by Karen White
Three young girls are best friends and declare that they will be "friends forever". As they mature, life steps in and as they still try to hold the bond, it weakens. Love is a central theme of this story.
shannon
The Recipe Box by Viola Shipman
This is the first novel I have read by Shipman. It is a heartwarming story where both the narrator and the audience learn the history of a family through recipe box that holds more than secrets than just recipes. Each chapter begins with a recipe and the story will remind its readers of the strong women in their own lives.
Heather
Children of Time by Adrian Tchaikovsky
This 600 page Sci-Fi space/evolution book looks daunting at first, but it is a quick read and very interesting. A unique concept of causing intelligence evolution by using a nanovirus. Humans have destroyed Earth and have moved onto spaceships, looking for a new planet to make their own. In the meantime, some humans have already terrafirmed a planet and put a variety of species on the planet with a nanovirus. Things go wrong, and all the humans at that planet are killed except one. Then one day a spaceship shows up. The occupants want to make the planet their home. The lone human, now having her conscious uploaded into her escape pod, does not want the humans there. Unknown to the travelers, a new species has evolved on the planet.
Harriet
There There by Tommy Orange
A look at the lives and problems of Urban Natives. Each chapter features a different individual, all livng in Oakland, CA, as they prepare for The Big Oakland Powwow. They all come together in the violent concluding pages.
Sandy
Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate
In this beautiful novel, inspired by a true story, two families generations apart are forever changed by a heartbreaking injustice. Memphis, 1939, 12-year-old Rill Foss and her 4 younger siblings live a magical life aboard their family's Mississippi River shantyboat. But when their father must rush their mother to the hospital one stormy night; Rill is left in charge until strangers arrive. Wrenched from all that is familiar and thrown into a Tenn. Children's Home Society orphanage, the Foss children are assured that they will soon be returned to their parents, but they quickly realize the dark truth. I could hardly put this book down and could not believe what I was reading.
LouAnn
A Bridge Across the Ocean by Susan Meissner
When I first starting reading this historical novel, I saw the word "ghost" and was immediately turned off. But something about the book compelled me to read on. I am so glad I did! This book is very well written and goes back and forth in time. The present time is written about finding the ghosts and what happened to them. When the past is written about it is basically a historical novel about war brides during WWII. I loved this book and have now added all the author's other books to my reading list.
Donna
The Escape Artist by Brad Meltzer
Enjoyed the characters and fast pace of this book. A little choppy in the beginning but ended up liking the book a lot.
Gil
A Confederacy of Dunces by John Kennedy Toole
This book is hilariously funny, often evoking out-loud laughing. The main character is Ignatius Reilly, a morbidly obese person, lives with his mother, stays in bed all day, has indigestion, belches constantly, and irritates just about everybody he comes in contact with. He portrays himself as the ultimate victim and is always writing philosophical and political nonsense. When he is forced to find a job, he causes immeasurable problems for all concerned. A fun book to read.
Kathy
The Alice Network by Kate Quinn
Fascinating story about a WWI spy network and present-day post-WWII young woman looking for her cousin. There is a connection that develops between the two women.
Alyson
The Martian by Andy Weir
Science fiction story about exploration of Mars which goes wrong and the ingenuity to get the mission back together.
Kathleen
The Baker's Secret by Stephen P. Kiernan
Emma is the baker, and her secret starts a network that ultimately save her little fictional village of Vergers. The buildup to D-Day, with the listener knowing what Emma cannot know, is subtly suspenseful. Emma never set out to be a heroine, was not a Resistance member, and did not believe those who said she was saving their village. I took off slightly for a couple of trivial things: the author did not tie up a few characters’ end story although they were key to Emma’s network and the previous patisserie seemed to bake items I’ve not seen in France. But these did not mar the story, which is well told and unique in providing various different points of view, even that of a rooster!
Linda
The Alice Network by Kate Quinn
Engaging historical fiction about WWI female spy network! Loved the setting and the rich descriptions!
CYNTHIA
Small Great Things by Jodi Picoult
Careful and thorough handling of a controversial incident. Black nurse, what supremacist father, young white public defender play well-documented roles in the court case. Well-developed characters.
Tiffany
Dangerous Girls by Abigail Haas
I loved this book. It was like reading a "Law & Order" episode!
Marilyn
The Good Daughter by Karin Slaughter
Well-written, interesting novel about survival of victims of violence in small-town Georgia.
Marilyn
Middlesex by Jeffrey Eugenides
Great novel about secrets of a Greek family that emigrated to Detroit.
Marilyn
The Underground Railroad by Colin Whitehead
Good book, difficult subject matter, but confusing because introduces information that is unclear about its reality.
Joy
The President is Missing by Bill Clinton and James Patterson
Good book but a bit of a departure for James Patterson. I can tell what he wrote and what Bill Clinton wrote.
Susan
A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles
Delightful. I pictured myself dining with the Count, running up and down the stairs with Nina and closing my eyes to hear Sofia playing the piano. And Anna waiting at the end...
Francisca E B
Plaid and Plagiarism by Molly MacRae
Four women take possession of their new bookshop, Yon Bonnie Books, in the Highlands of Scotland. Before Janet can move into her new house, however, they find a body in the garden shed. I like these characters. Add some colorful local citizens, a constable who’s never had a murder case before, and lots of references to books and you have a recipe for an enjoyable cozy mystery.
Vicki
Lucky Boy by Shanthi Sekaran
Interesting view on immigration and separation of children and parents.
Vicki
First, We Make the Beast Beautiful by Sarah Wilson
Nonfiction account of author's struggles and discoveries about anxiety.
Judy
The Lost for Words Bookshop by Stephanie Butland
Loveday Cardew is a young woman who has always preferred books to people. She works in a used book shop in England. One day Nathan comes into the shop and things change for her. She becomes more outgoing and social. Is it love, or something else? This book just got better and better as it progressed, and it had a few twists and turns along the way.
Sheryl
Rules of Civility by Amor Towles
Good read that keeps you coming back for more. Great period piece of glamorous Manhattan in the late 1930s, 1940s. Cocktail parties with martinis, limousines, loves won and lost. I recommend.
JudH
Fatal Error by J. A. Jance
Fast-paced novel focused around drone technology and a scheme to sell it to a foreign power.
Rosalie
This is Your Life, Harriet Chance! by Jonathan Evison
Really let's you see into Harriet's life. Humorous but also chillingly insightful. A book you can enjoy in one evening.
Hailey
When Never Comes by Barbara Davis
I loved this book so much! What if the life you thought you knew turned out to be a complete lie? Christy-Lynn Parker wakes up the a knock on the door: her husband has been found dead in the river. That wasn’t even the worst part: he was found with a naked nameless woman no one knows who she is. After being bombarded by paparazzi because her husband was a bestselling author, she moves away to a small town in Virginia to “escape from reality” and start over. To whoever reads this review, get a copy and once you start, you won’t be able to stop till you read the very last sentence. Throughout the entire story, I was rooting for Christy-Lynn and hoped she would find the happiness she so desperately wanted to find.
Dottie
Make Me Even and I’ll Never Gamble Again by Jerrold Fine
I enjoyed the premise of the book and the writing style. So many people make statements about the stock market that it is “just gambling”. Jerrold Fine writes about how being able to read people, pay attention to details, manage risk and being true to yourself, all with honesty and humility contribute to success in business and life. This is a coming-of-age novel, seemingly based on his own experiences, who through skill, luck and fortitude, grows from a mediocre high school student to a Wall Street success. It includes the follies and insecurities of the young, along with how perseverance, guidance, passion and looking at opportunities from all angles can lead to fulfillment. This book is funny, sometimes hilarious, insightful and mean.
Nancy
The Woman in the Window by A. J. Finn
I liked the author's style of writing and it kept my interest through most of the book. However, I thought some of it was repetitive. It kept me guessing until the very end of the story.
Nina
The Last Bus to Wisdom by Ivan Doig
Donal Cameron is being raised by his grandmother. When she needs surgery, he is shipped off to his Aunt Kate. Aunt Kate and Uncle Herman provide a shelter for him, with little emotional attachment on the aunt's part. A series of events leads Donal to get back on the road to home. Often funny, quaint and wise with observations, this book was a guilty pleasure.
Carol
The Tea Planter's Wife by Dinah Jefferies
A beautiful story that transports you to another time and place. So descriptively written I felt I was right in the novel!
Bridget
Sisters First by Jenna Bush Hager and Barbara Pierce Bush
Nice well-written book of memories. These girls have obviously lived a life of privilege, but try to stay as grounded as they possibly can. Particularly interesting is their description of 9/11. News accounts all refer to them being taken to secure locations. The account in this book makes it a little more real.
Joanne
Pachinko by Min Jin Lee
Thoroughly enjoyed the book, but a little disappointed in the ending.
Helen
Mahattan Beach by Jennifer Egan
Story of a woman during the early WWII days. She becomes an underwater diver repairing destroyers. It also involves the criminal scene in New York during those years. It is very well written and interesting to learn about the women who were left behind.
Suzanne
Heaven's Keep by William Kent Krueger
You cannot go wrong with this author. HEAVEN'S KEEP is a twisting, turning, heart-rending story of Cork O'Connor's wife's plane that has gone down, and the true story behind it. Cork, of course, searches for his wife, fearing the worst, and hoping for the best. The author takes you through every zig and every zag until you feel like you've been blindfolded and spun around. So much to this plot and I applaud William Kent Kruger for wringing the truth hidden under it all.
Sue
The Key by Kathryn Hughes
This book is a page-turner! You get sucked in from the very beginning and when the twist comes it's very unexpected. I loved it!
Donna
The Escape Artist by Brad Meltzer
Fast-paced, good characterization, engrossing read. The action takes place at Dover Air Force Base where bodies of servicemen and catastrophes are brought. One body is swapped for someone else and the race is on to find out why.
Doreena
First Comes Love by Emily Giffin
I am a big fan of Emily's and read all her books. While I enjoyed this book and storyline, I couldn't stand the Meredith character. I started out liking her and she just got progressively worse. I didn't care for Josie because of Meredith but grew to like her. All in all a great book by Emily. I can definitely see a sequel.
Susan
The Other Einstein by Marie Benedict
A great book that made for a good book club discussion.
Michelle
The House Girl by Tara Conklin
This book had potential. There were even parts that I felt captivated by. The truth of the past is uncovered by an up-and-coming lawyer. The premise is great. The writing is decent. Much of the story I was pulled in by. But there was definitely something lacking that just didn’t set well with me overall. Too much fragmentation in the story and characters. The ending flat. Glad I read it but it did not live up to my expectations.
Elizabeth
The Hypnotist's Love Story by Liane Moriarty
I always enjoy Liane Moriarty's books and this was no exception. The characters are sharply drawn and I liked particularly her use of first person to really get into the head of the female stalker to try to understand her motivation.
Miriam
The Life We Bury by Allen Eskens
Fantastic mystery about Joe who is writing a biography about Carl for a college class. Carl is a convicted murderer who is dying and Joe discovers he may be innocent. Plot is so exciting and Joe a wonderful character!
OSWALDO
The Gray Man by Mark Greaney
As an avid reader and book collector I have read hundreds of books. I have also read many series. I have also written many book reviews. Some good and some not good. Once in a while a book series comes along that you just can't stop telling everyone who will listen about this really good book series you are reading, and the books are just impossible to put down. How you woke up late for work because you were up reading until 3 in the morning. THE GRAY MAN is that book. It's Book 1 in the series. It's an action-packed thriller like no other. The characters are unforgettable. It's like stepping into an action-packed movie. It's definitely a must-read. I highly recommend this book.
Dorothy
Sweet Vengeance by Fern Michaels
A woman spends ten years in prison for a crime she didn't commit. Her lawyers announce that her conviction has been overturned and she is released on bail to await a new trial. Read it and find out if she gets a new trial and the outcome. A good read.
Linda
Red Alert by James Patterson & Marshall Karp
Detectives Jordan and MacDonald are at a dinner put on by the Silver Bullet Foundation when a bomb goes off and the speaker is blown to bits. Days later another partner in the Foundation is also killed by a bomb. Two partners remain and the mayor is telling the detectives to find the bomber. The Foundation was set to build housing for the poor and, if not built, it will reflect poorly on the mayor. In addition to finding the bomber, a woman has been found dead on Roosevelt Island and it appears she was strangled during an auto-erotic meeting with an unknown person. It is thought that she might have made sex videos involving well-known individuals.
Linda
Close Contact by Lori Foster
Maxi Nevar inherited her grandmother’s farm and loves living there until she finds herself lying beside the pond one morning not knowing how she got there. She hires Miles Dartman as her bodyguard. She and Miles had had three dates with scorching sex until she suddenly disappeared. He is angry with her but goes to stay at the farm and find the person who is terrorizing Maxi. The more they are together, the more Miles is determined to hang onto Maxi and not let her go. Someone is trying to get Maxi to leave and has become violent. He has to be found and stopped before someone is hurt. Miles is determined that it not be Maxi.
Linda
Conard County Marine by Rachel Lee
After being brutally attacked and left for dead, Kylie Brewer recovers and heads home to Conard County, Wyoming. She has short memory loss but has been assured she will regain her memory. Evan Cooper is in town for a little R&R from the Marines and is staying in the house with Kylie and her sister. Protective by nature, Coop is determined that no harm comes to Kylie. Her attacker has followed her and now stalks her but he was not counting on the brawny Marine protector. I liked the protective Marine who helped Kylie with her terrors by relating some of what he had gone through in Afghanistan yet he had his gentle side to hold her and soothe her when she was upset.
Linda
An English Bride in Scotland by Lynsay Sands
A young girl about to take her final vows to become a nun is suddenly thrust into a world that she has not seen for fourteen years. She is to take her sister’s place in an arranged marriage and she has not even seen a man other than an elderly priest during the time she was at the abbey. The wedding is performed and she leaves with her handsome husband back to his castle in Scotland. Along the way, she is attacked several times. Her husband is the laird but had to battle his cousin for the seat and his cousin was killed. Is one of his relatives out for revenge? #1 in the Highlanders series.
Linda
To Marry a Scottish Laird by Lynsay Sands
Joan Chartres was carrying out the death bed instruction from her mother and traveling to the MacKay clan dressed as a young lad. Set upon by thieves, she was saved by Cam Sinclair. He was stabbed in the back and she nursed his wound. They traveled together and were friends until he saw her bathing in the river and learned Jo was a female. Lust took over. They were found by Laird MacKay and he was shocked when he read the scoll she had brought and learned that Joan was his niece. He states that Cam and Joan must marry. but she grew up in a village as a commoner while Cam is a noble. She doesn’t think she will fit in but MacKay is adamant. #2 in the Highlander series.
Judy
The Killer Angels by Michael Shaara
The Battle of Gettysburg in the Civil War is the center of this Pulitzer Prize-winning novel. Told through the eyes of generals from both the North and South, this book literally has words that roll right off the page and into the reader's consciousness. What a wonderful telling of a tale of a truly awful time in our American history.
Liz
Lily and the Octopus by Steven Rowley
Lily and Ted have been together since Lily was just a few weeks old. She means everything to him. When, suddenly something appears on Lily's head, Ted's life goes into a spiral. This is a very moving story about a man and his dog and what each can bring into the other's life.
Donna
Hell Bound by G. R. Williamson
This story takes place in 1883 when the West was still wild and not yet very civilized. It was well written, easy to read and descriptive so I could visualize the scenes as though it was a movie. I was immediately involved with the characters. I enjoyed the book.
Carol
Educated by Tara Westover
Our group just read and discussed EDUCATED by Tara Westover. This Mormon girl never attended school until age 17 when she entered Brigham Young University and graduated magna cum laude.
This month we are each reading a selection from THE GREAT AMERICAN READ and will discuss our selections at the next meeting. I am reading PILLARS OF THE EARTH by Ken Follett.
Margaret
The Music Shop by Rachel Joyce
This is a wonderful love story with a backdrop of a music shop in 1980s London. The protagonist and owner of the music shop is Frank whose eccentric mother gave him an education in listening to music. She taught him about composers and how to listen to the pauses in music. Frank developed a gift for helping people to heal by listening to a specific piece of music he chose for them. When a mysterious German lady, Ilse, comes into Frank's life, his humdrum existence is turned upside down. His friends, co-workers, and other business owners who are all misfits, encourage him to pursue a relationship. There's love, loss, friendship, community fellowship, but most of all I loved everything about the music and its effect on people. Recommended.
Judy
River of Darkness by Rennie Airth
It is one of the best mysteries I have read in a LONG time!!!! Set between WWl and WWll in England, this story is about a rather gruesome murder of a family; the main protagonist is Inspector John Madden, who was a soldier during WWl. The writer is an 86-year-old South African who has written only 5 total murder mysteries! I am already halfway through the second mystery!!! That is how good it was!
Phyllis
Maine by J. Courtney Sullivan
Wonderful engaging story about the Kelleher family of New England. Three generations of women keep it lively. Interesting throughout and I hated for the story to end.
Tessa B C
My Name is Red by Orhan Pamuk
Set in 16th-century Instanbul, this is a murder mystery, an art history lesson, and a love story all in one. I found it difficult to follow because of Pamuk’s unusual style. Each chapter has a different narrator. When he focuses on the murder and the investigation, the story is quite compelling. However, Pamuk also includes long passages on art, the history of Turkey, and the teachings of Islam. I found these interesting, but felt they interrupted the story arc and sometimes had me scratching my head wondering what I had just missed.
Marsha
Send Down the Rain by Charles Martin
I love this author. He has many interesting plot lines in his novel, but always brings them together to a satisfying ending. JoJo is recovering from his time in Vietnam, Allie suffers from two husbands who betray her and Catalina struggles to escape a Mexican drug lord and protect her young children. These characters, with their laughter and tears, are people the author makes you want to know and share in their life stories. Charles Martin is a skilled writer with a message in every book.
Kevin
50 Ways To Get A Job by Dev Aujla
This 21st century guidebook for all job-seekers/currently employed professionals will supercharge how you market yourself and stay relevant in a work landscape that's changing daily.
Cheryll
The Black Book by James Patterson and David Ellis
One of James Patterson's best novels in a long, long time. Couldn't put it down.
Jackie
Beach House for Rent by Mary Alice Monroe
This was my first book by this author; I liked the cover so I picked it up. It was light and her writing style kept it interesting. Will definitely read others by this author.
Lynn
Us Against You by Fredrik Backman
4.5 stars for the best book I've read in a decade. I fell in love with these characters in spite of the hate, pain, and violence because there's also immense love, loyalty, friendship, and kindness. You don't need to read BEARTOWN first, but you'll be glad you did.
Cheryl
How to Walk Away by Katherine Center
Margret has always had a fear of flying. The day she got into her boyfriend Chip's plane was going to change her life forever. In the coming years, she lost her fiance, her looks, and had to go through many transformations. Some of those transformations included her good looking therapist Ian. As the two got closer, Margaret thought she was feeling love, and that was love was being reciprocated by Ian, but she was wrong. In this heart-pounding novel, Katherine Center writes tragedy and heartbreak like nobody else. This novel will take you on a journey you won't soon forget. If you like romance, a good love story, and a few tears, you will love this book.
Cheryl
Woman Last Seen In Her Thirties by Camille Pagan
Maggie is living the life with a husband, kids, and an upcoming anniversary trip to Rome. Suddenly, her husband announces, "he wants a different life." Adam wants out of this marriage to be with energetic Jillian from the local coffee shop. A much younger trade-in. Maggie is having a difficult time letting go. She decides to take the trip to Rome without Adam. After the life-changing trip, Maggie sees she can let Adam go and still move on with her life, until Adam calls and informs her, he needs heart surgery, and may not pull through. I enjoyed Maggie's positive attitude when moving on. I think Pagan hit the nail on the head with this novel. She just makes you feel like you can do anything.
Cheryl
An Endless Love by Jason R. Hemmings
The romance was astounding. The first story was my favorite. A True Love of Time, had me mesmerized. I wish it was a full-length book. In all of the stories there were great characters, each with their own personalities, in which you could see their pain, and heartache, or joy for the ones they loved. The characters all traveled through different time periods. The landscapes were very visible in my mind, especially the gondola in Venice. The stories were timeless and heartwarming. I loved all the places the characters visited. The author described them so well. Though I've never been to any of these places, I could picture being right there.
Erin
The Life Lucy Knew by Karma Brown
Sweet love story that I couldn't put down. A very enjoyable read that occupied my time on a very hot summer weekend!
Francisca E B
Night at the Fiestas by Kirstin Valdez Quade
It’s difficult to rate a collection, because some of the stories resonate more with me than others. Quade gives us ten beautifully-written stories in this collection. Ever since I studied O Henry and Edgar Allan Poe in junior high, I have loved short stories. With this collection, Kirstin Valdez Quade is added to my list of authors who have perfected this format.
Colleen
Death in the English Countryside by Sara Rosett
Good easy read in a new series!
Sandy
All We Had by Annie Weatherwax
Very good story. Easy to read.
Thomas
Two Kinds of Truth by Michael Connelly
Excellent book.
Margaret
An American Marriage by Tayari Jones
A selection for Oprah's Book Club. This book was just okay for me, the plot was not all that interesting, and the characters were unlikable. The 2 protagonists, Roy & Celestial, are married, well-educated & have bright futures when their world comes tumbling down. The plot is about a marriage that deteriorates after the young husband, Roy, is sent to prison for 12 years for a crime he didn't commit. Celestial is artistic & manages to make a name for herself thru lots of hard work while Roy is in prison. After 5 years, Roy is released & comes home expecting to resume his marriage only to find things are totally different. We get both POVs thru letters they wrote to each other while Roy was in prison, & this was the best part of the novel.
Thomas
Turbulence by Stuart Woods
A very good book.
Thomas
First in Line by Kate Anderson Brower
Excellent book.
Lana
The Bone Tree by Greg Iles
A good book, but author repeats information over and over and over. It seemed the author was in high school English composition class and struggling to write an 800-page book so he just repeated information to fill in. Did not care for "Caitlin", felt she was self-centered and had no respect for law enforcement, only wanted her story.
Jacqueline
Then She Was Gone by Lisa Jewell
Emotional story of a family trying to cope with the disappearance of their daughter, then years later they have to cope with the discovery of her remains. A story you will not want to put down until the story is over.
Gretchen
The Outsider by Stephen King
Classic Stephen King. Terrific read!
Lynn
Grandma Gatewood's Walk by Ben Montgomery
Subtitle: The Inspiring Story of the Woman Who Saved the Appalachian Trail. She was 67 years old the first time...and walked it two more times!!
Donna
Manhattan Beach by Jennifer Egan
This is a fictional story that takes place during WWII. Men go off to war and women step into jobs that were forbidden to them prior to this time. Anna has a boring job in a factory and wants to do something more exciting. She sees men diving to repair war ships and vows to do this. This book is her story through many tough situations, not the least of being to try to find her father who has disappeared.
Cherry
Make Me Even and I'll Never Gamble Again by Jerrold Fine
MAKE ME EVEN AND I'LL NEVER GAMBLE AGAIN is a novel that seems more a memoir. I loved the coming-of-age aspect with funny situations that remind me of us. You will laugh while learning the "ins and outs" of poker and Wall Street. I'm brain dead when it comes to money, but I liked his risk-taking and thinking outside the lines...that's me! I couldn't wait to see what happened next.
Richard N B
March: Book Two by John Lewis and Andrew Aydin
This is the second in a trilogy of graphic memoirs detailing the civil rights movement and early career of U.S. Representative John Lewis. I applaud Lewis and his collaborators for bringing this era in America’s history to the attention of young readers. Providing this information in this format makes it more accessible to a young audience, and it’s important that they learn about this episode in our nation’s history.
Sandi
Eagle & Crane by Suzanne Rindell
This book comes from an author that I like, one who is able to pen characters that speak to you, who sets you in a story that is comfortable and likable, allowing you to become part of their world. This novel brings in the historic past of the bi-plane, when it was in its glory. It delves into the profession of the barnstorming circuit and the people who ran the circus-like atmosphere. There are elements of the life of a Japanese American and the heartbreaking internment of all Japanese just after the bombing of Pearl Harbor. It is a love story, a story of adventure, and a murder mystery told in both the past and the present. If you have never read Rindell, this is a good novel to begin your adventure with her.
samantha
The Weekenders by Mary Kay Andrews
The PERFECT summer beach read! It's quick, it's entertaining, and it's a light mystery. Everything you could want!
Noreen
Jackie, Janet and Lee by J. Randy Taraborrelli
Even if half of what is written is true...some story. Some very interesting stories about the Auchincloss and Kennedy families. What the public knew about these people was just the tip of the iceberg.
Sandy
Leopard at the Door by Jennifer McVeigh
One of the greatest books I have ever read. Set in Kenya in the 1950s against the fading backdrop of the British Empire - a sweeping tale of self-discovery, betrayal, and an impossible love.
Janet
Make Me Even and I'll Never Gamble Again by Jerrold Fine
An insightful and funny story of a high school student who has an uncanny sense of the stock market and his journey to becoming successful on Wall Street.
