This contest period's winners were Ginny P., Sandy M. and Sarah M., who each received a copy of THE FROZEN RIVER by Ariel Lawhon and THE OTHER MOTHERS by Katherine Faulkner.
Rose
The Child Who Lived by Ellie Midwood
This is the story of Lore, an Austrian woman who was sent to the camps after she committed treason against the Reich by delivering secrets to the Jews. While in captivity, she was sentenced to be a woman catering to the needs of the SS and the inmates of the camps. She meets Wolf, a journalist, and they fall in love. They create a child, but have to hide the pregnancy from the SS, or the pregnancy will be terminated. I enjoyed the first part of the book, but then I felt it got dragged down towards the second half. The book did do a good job of outlining the atrocities of the camps, even to citizens of Austria and Germany who went against the hard doctrine of the regime.
Anne
The Favor by Nora Murphy
Weak ending but overall interesting plot. Two women who don't know each other each kill the other's abusive spouse.
Elizabeth
The Fiction Writer by Jillian Cantor
Does Charley really think Olivia will be able to write this book for billionaire and sexiest-man-alive Henry Asherwood about a secret about his late grandmother and Daphne du Maurier? Very clever storyline, but THE FICTION WRITER was confusing and a bit on the slow-burn side, but I couldn't stop reading because I needed to find out what really was going on and who the unidentified narrator was.
Elizabeth
The Royal Windsor Secret by Christine Wells
Historical fiction, British literature. Cleo Davenport is a feisty character whose goals are to find out who her parents are and to become a jewelry designer. It’s rumored that her father is the Prince of Wales - now King Edward VIII.
Elizabeth
The Midwife of Berlin by Anna Stuart
We meet Ester as she thankfully is leaving after surviving Auschwitz, but sadly leaving without her daughter that the Nazis ripped from her arms after giving birth in the camp. Historical fiction fans and fans of this time in history will devour this book.
Jill
The Spy Coast by Tess Gerritsen
This is an espionage thriller that I enjoyed immensely. This is my first book by Tess Gerritsen and I am looking forward to #2 of The Martini Club series. I found myself after each chapter thinking, I’ll just read one more chapter; this is when I know it’s a good book. The cast in the book are Ex CIA agents that have retired to the small town of, Purity, Maine. Someone is trying to kill Maggie, one of the former CIA agents and ghosts from her past start to return. There is lots of mystery and action in THE SPY COAST. I was immersed in this story right from the start.
Karen
Stories to Tell by Richard Marx
He’s one of my favorite singers. I loved reading about how he became who he is. He had background stories for all his songs. Loved this book!!!!
Barbara
The Last Devil to Die by Richard Osman
Thursday Murder Club mysteries do not disappoint. Love the way the author intertwines aging with experience, intrigue and humor to solve a murder(s).
Sharon
The Maid by Nita Prose
Such a wonderful portrayal of Mollie who may be "just" a maid in a hotel but has so much compassion and wisdom.
Donna
First Victim by Debbie Babitt
Alice McKerrity is a supreme court judge in Manhattan and has presided over many cases involving violent criminals. She is haunted by a personal experience 30 years ago and the current trial causes her memories to consume her. This novel is a roller-coaster ride of guilt, fear, suspense, terror and justice.
Donna
Into Siberia by Gregory Wallance
1864: Russia and the U.S. were on good terms. George Kennan signed up with Western Union to establish a path for the Russia-American Telegraph Expedition. He spent three years traveling under horrific weather conditions by equally horrendous modes of transportation; ship, boats, sleds pulled by dogs, horseback, various types of carts pulled by horses and by foot. On his return to the states he wrote a book and gave lectures with the hope that the Siberian exile system would be dissolved or improved. The relationship between Russian and the U.S. has never been the same. The author did extensive research and wrote this book as a story.
Donna
Today I’ll See Her by Michele Periza Wacek
A unique short story that grabs you and makes you wonder the outcome. There is a bit of suspense as a woman enters a diner every day, sits in the same booth, places the same order of food for two with the expectation of her daughter joining her.
Donna
The Midnight Library by Matt Haig
Nora is depressed and decides to commit suicide believing she has failed in life. She finds that death isn’t immediate and discovers she’s in a huge library where time has stopped. She is handed a Book of Regrets throughout her life. Nora is offered the chance to relive moments in the book to see the “what if’s” had she made different choices. We’ve all wondered about “what if” and this story gives one a different perspective. It is a thought-provoking novel.
Donna
While You Were Out by Meg Kissinger
This memoir is a must-read. Meg lived and researched the effects of mental illness on the person suffering and the members of the family. Meg grew up in a well-to-do family that was envied by friends. The family that had many secrets and no one ever talked about their problems, even with each other. As it says in the book: Take two alcoholics—one with bipolar and the other with crippling anxiety—and let them have eight kids in twelve years: What could possibly go wrong? Two of the children commit suicide and there were many failed attempts. It wasn’t until 50 years had passed that the siblings were able to talk to each other where they learned the truth and began to heal.
Laurie
The Little Liar by Mitch Albom
Heads up for those readers who are fans of WWII fictional history and Holocaust-themed novels. Book review groups will be busy with a plethora of discussion themes. Bravo Mitch Albom, talented author of THE LITTLE LIAR!
Donna
The Wife in the Photo by Emily Shiner
Evan’s wife, Lola, and Jessica’s mother falls to her death. Was it an accident or was she pushed? This dark and twisty novel keeps you guessing from the beginning to the end. This book is about lies, secrets, revenge, murder and dysfunctional people told through multiple viewpoints. It was truly a page-turner.
Connie
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
Story of a woman chemist who has to fight to be recognized as a professional in a man's world. She ends up hosting a television cooking show and uses the platform to encourage women to take the reins. She is raising a daughter because her partner has died. Lots of trials and tribulations.
Donna
The Taken Ones by Jess Lourey
Forty-two years ago on a hot summer day, three young girls went into a neighborhood forest on the way to a creek to swim. One traumatized girl walks out of the woods. This is a cold case that Evangeline (Van) takes the lead to solve. She has a history of abuse that is unknown to her fellow offices at the bureau, along with occasional dreams that guide her in solving cases. A woman is found that had been buried alive and she was one of the girls that had disappeared. Van becomes obsessed with this cold case and is running out of time to find the second girl. This is an intense story of manipulation, evil and survival.
MH
Julie and Romeo by Jeanne Ray
Lighthearted and funny take-off on Romeo and Juliet by the mother of author Ann Patchett. I found it to be just the sort of book I needed for the Christmas season. Lots of twists and turns - the dating again at 60 was humorous. I also read the follow-up book, ROMEO AND JULIE GET LUCKY.
Donna
The Blackout Book Club by Amy Lynn Green
Avis had promised her brother that she would be the head librarian is the small town of Derby, Maine, while he was away serving during WWII. While he was gone, the owner of the private library decided to convert it into a charity childcare center in a few months as the women of the town were working in the factories. Avis is struggling to hold the library together and starts a book club. The townspeople, though not necessarily readers, originally attend the meetings out of curiosity and the baked goods Avis furnishes. The book club is a success for the young and old as it introduces them to reading and provides socializing during wartime, friendships and through personal stories they form strong bonds and make life-altering choices.
Donna
Lies We Tell Ourselves by Steena Holmes
This novel covers disturbing subjects; kidnapping, sex trafficking, violence and murder. It was written to inform readers of the despair families experience waiting to find out what happened to their loved one and he/she is alive or dead. There are people trying to help find the missing person though you don’t know who you can trust. The reader feels the pain. This book shows that people carry secrets and live with lies. It is a twisty story that keeps you turning the pages to see what happens. This is a standalone book and the first part of a series.
Donna
The Stranger Upstairs by Lisa M. Matlin
Sarah, a social media influencer, wants to build her sponsorship base. She and her husband purchased a house that’s been abandoned for 40 years in a small town. There had been a terrible murder and suicide in the house and it was called “the murder house”. Sarah believed that she could record the renovations, post it on her site and then sell it. Sarah, her husband and the house all carried secrets. In short order her life began unraveling and she was losing everything including her career as a psychologist. A fellow psychologist advised her that, “You repeat what you don’t repair”. This novel is suspenseful from the beginning to the end.
Donna
Proof of Innocence by Patricia McLinn
This is Book #1 of a trilogy and a good standalone novel. I am looking forward to reading the next two books. This novel is about a prosecutor who tried a case 4-1/2 years ago and is still convinced that she lost the case and a murderer was freed. She is called to assist in another case that could have a connection to that case. She in determined to not let a guilty man go free again and almost loses her life in the process. This is a murder mystery involving tracking down a murderer in a small town where everyone knows everyone else.
Donna
The Bet Takers by Melissa McClone
Seven billionaires are longtime friends and get together on Sunday nights to watch football. All of them are single and don’t have plans to get married. All but one of the men decide that they should make a bet on who will be the last one to get married. This book is a novella.
Julie
Familia by Lauren E. Rico
I knew when I read the author’s note at the beginning of this book, I was going to love it! Told in chapters of multiple perspectives in dual timelines, the author weaves an intricate story that unravels the mystery of what happened that fateful day in Puerto Rico when baby Marianna disappeared, leaving nothing but a pink sock behind. With well-developed characters and multiple, unforeseen twists and turns that kept me guessing until the end, this five star novel about sisterhood, self-discovery, and self-discovery, and friends who are family, evoked a multitude of emotions as I turned the pages. With a release date of December 26th, FAMILIA is the perfect book to curl up with on a cool winter’s night!
Jill
Winter Solstice by Elin Hilderbrand
When reading this for my book group, I didn't realize that this was the final book of Hilderbrand's first Winter trilogy. It centers around the Quinn family whose patriarch, Kelley, is dying of cancer. Surprisingly, the book is very much about life, first love, marriages, blended families, affairs, money issues, and what it means to truly love and accept people for who they are. A nice conclusion to the trilogy and I look forward to going back and reading the earlier ones. Can be read as a stand-alone, but probably better to read the others first.
Susan
Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson
Loved it, very unique story telling. Do we really know our parents? Do we accept who they are at face value? Can we forgive? Or let it go? I absolutely loved it. I didn’t think I would. Too much hype sometimes. Do we accept secrets when they are gone and their legacy must be accepted? The black cake is the connection to tradition and values from the mother and her children. Only issue is there was too much going on in each short chapter. Not enough time to absorb and take it in and digest it. Reminds me of the second Indiana Jones movie. Buckle your seat belt, though it is literary fiction not a thriller. Just too much to take in at one time. I still loved it.
Becky
The Wishing Bridge by Viola Shipman
Touching Christmas spirit story. Henri works in mergers and acquisitions. Would she REALLY try to convince her family to sell the family store/business?
Becky
The Love Story of Missy Carmichael by Beth Morrey
Uplifting story of loneliness, relationships, companionship, and worthiness. A chance encounter will change 79 year old Missy’s life.
Becky
The Family Secret by Kiersten Modglin
Hidden disclosures are revealed about a rich and powerful family. This famous family has lots of secrets!
Shelley
The Matchmaker's Gift by Lynda Cohen Loigman
Enjoyable story about recognizing family traits and grandparents' love while finding your own self.
LisaMarie
The Christmas Killer by Alex Pine
Very different and unique read. I really enjoyed trying to figure out who did it. Good Christmas read if you like mystery.
Michele
The Ball at Versailles by Danielle Steel
A different era where white gloves and pillbox hats were the glam. Being a debutante for some meant marriage, for others, making their families happy. But when four Americans meet up and share their feelings of not wanting a husband, wanting to finish college and have a career, they feel they are the change that is coming. But, not all is as it appears. Some find love, will it last? One loses something that in the end she is grateful for. One finds she has cast off the resentment of her sister for good. In the end, they all find happiness.
Rosa
Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano
This is the story of the Padavano sisters: Julia, Sylvia, and twins Emeline and Cecelia. Julia is headstrong, focused, and has a life plan. Sylvia just wants to find the love of her life. Emeline is the empathetic sister, wanting to take care of everyone. Cecelia is a talented artist with an independent spirit. The story spans decades of this close-knit and often dysfunctional family, through many decisions made by each sister that affect the family dynamics. These characters are complex and interesting, and each one resonated with me, making me reflect on my own relationships with my sisters. Napolitano's prose is beautiful and poetic. This is a perfect book for book club.
Eileen
Loot by Tania James
This book seemed to wander off course during the middle and didn't have much of a plot.
Sue
The Wolves Come Out At Night by J. T. Ellison
Great story. JT is one of my go-to authors! I have read everything she has written and have never been disappointed!
Natalie
America Fantastica by Tim O’ Brien
Lies, lies and more lies. More than just fiction served up Tim O’Brien style.
Susan
Happy-Go-Lucky by David Sedaris
Always an original take on life (both weird and "normal") that gets you thinking and laughing. Love his odd-ball, creative family. From this book I get the feeling that living with Hugh just might be like trying to recreate his life for the better with his highly critical and insensitive father. Not that Hugh is that, he just presents the challenge, maybe.
Jill
The Book Club Hotel by Sarah Morgan
Delightful Christmas book about second chances and deciding what’s important. It takes place at an idyllic country inn in Vermont. I loved the relationships explored: friends, sisters, husband and wives, new loves. This is a feel good book.
Sherrie
Darling Girls by Sally Hepworth
Dear Ms. Hepworth has done it again. Another edge-of-your-seat, thinking you know what is happening when...oops, you don't story. So good is this story of foster girls living together and becoming "sisters" forever. Thinking they know everything going on and have figured it out, out comes an almost different life. Brilliant and so easy to be wrapped up and engrossed in this story.
Linda
Bloomsbury Girls by Natalie Jenner
This historical fiction novel takes place at a bookstore in post WWII London. The three female protagonists are each trying to get ahead in their jobs despite men holding them back. It's a fun read for us bookworms because real, famous authors (as well as neglected female authors) are included in the plot, which also has romance, intrigue and supportive women friends.
Debbie
Let Us Descend by Jesmyn Ward
Sad story about slavery told through one young slave, Annis, and the hell that she endured as a slave who had no freedom and was sold or beaten at the whim of her master or mistress. The story has a little bit of spiritualism involved and a nod to Dante's Inferno. It is a book that will leave you thinking about slavery in a new way.
Elizabeth
Pineapple Street by Jenny Jackson
This is a book about the ultra-rich in Brooklyn Heights, told from three perspectives - two rich sisters and their sister-in-law, a middle class outsider who marries into the family. It's a quick read and somewhat damning look at the cluelessness of the 1%. But it's got some meat to it, too, and was a page-turner for me. A nice first book from this author.
Jeanne
The Berry Pickers by Amanda Peters
A Native American family is in crisis when 4-year old daughter Ruthie is kidnapped while the migrant family prepares to pick berries in Maine. What follows is a dual narration by the daughter and her brother Joe.
Betty Jo
Killers of the Flower Moon by David Grann
Excellent nonfiction which tells a story that few Americans are taught in school. Great story and a fast read about the wealth of the Osage Indians and the birth of the FBI, which investigated the murder of tribal members.
Karen
The Rose Code by Kate Quinn
Travel to the secret places where young, intelligent men and women break the new daily codes of the Germans who were at war with during WWII. See how they live their daily lives and deal with people who hold various skills and beliefs. Who do they trust? How can they keep their jobs secret from everyone, even their families?
Sheree
The House of Lincoln by Nancy Horan
I really liked this book. It proves that not much as changed in politics or in the way we treat people of color or other nationalities. I liked how it went into depth about Abe Lincoln's relationship with his wife and the tragedies she endured during her life. I got this book from the library and sadly I don't think anyone in our library system had read it!
Sherrie
Blessing of the Lost Girls by J. A. Jance
Very well-written book about a murderer who thinks he can keep killing young women and not get caught. He chooses young women around a rodeo each time and kills them. We get to know Dan, a person who takes this to heart and is working on getting this killer caught. We also get a good glimpse of what Jenny, Joanna's daughter, is doing at college. Very intense and very well written from different views. I have enjoyed reading all of these books under Joanna Brady and hope she has a few more to be written. She never disappoints.
Jonell
The Mostly True Story of Tanner and Louise by Colleen Oakley
This was a fun, yet touching book. It was so engaging as it was told from the perspective of a young adult woman struggling through her first major adult challenge and an older woman reckoning with her past.
Linda
All the Little Raindrops by Mia Sheridan
This was an excellent book and touched on the evils of trafficking. Noelle Meyer and Evan Sinclair knew each other from school. Evan's father shot and killed Noelle's mother. He was wealthy and got off, and Noelle's father was grief stricken and angry. He had Evan kidnapped and sold to traffickers. Then Noelle was kidnapped. They were caged like animals and used as their renters wanted. They were played against each other and underwent pain to keep the other from being hurt. A bond developed between them and never went away even after they escaped. Years later, they only felt safe with each other. But the Collector knows the true story about the group and is determined to bring them down after helping Noelle and Evan escape. Who is he?
Linda
The Boyfriend Candidate by Ashley Winstead
Alexis Stone is determined to change her image from a meek librarian and goes to a hotel bar to find a man for a one-night stand. She meets Logan Arthur and they go to a pricey suite. Before they could start anything, the fire alarm goes off and he is photographed carrying her outside. She had no idea he was a candidate running for governor. To downplay his playboy image, his staff wants her to pretend to be his girlfriend. She agrees and stands beside him on various platforms. No one is prouder of her when she leads protestors fighting for teacher pay than Logan. Then a photo shows Alexis being kissed by another man and they pretend relationship is over. Or was it pretend?
Linda
A Winter in New York by Josie Silver
Iris Raven leaves an abusive relationship in London and moves to New York, the city her mother had loved. Going to a street festival, she spies a shop doorway that looks familiar. She looks through her mother’s photos and sees the doorway with a handsome man standing in it. On the back is written “Santo 1985”. Iris’s curiosity gets to her and she returns to the shop and meets Giovanni (Gio) Belotti. He runs the family's gelato shop with his uncle who is hospitalized. No one else knows the recipe for the vanilla gelato that the shop is famous for and, since Iris is a chef, she offers to help. She and Gio fall in love but she lied to him in the past and now her guilty conscience is getting to her. She has to tell him about the photo.
pauline
Absolution by Alice McDermot
This was a splendid story. I felt like I was in Saigon.
Linda
The Roommate Pact by Allison Ashley
When his father got a job as janitor at a posh school, Graham Scott was able to attend. He never truly fit in and was ridiculed especially after he asked a girl to a dance and she put him down. He vowed he would never be put in this situation by a woman again. Now Graham is a roommate with Claire and Reagan. Reagan can see the sparks between the two but they insist they are just friends. Then they decide to be friends with benefits when Reagan will be out of town. It was just supposed to be an arrangement and love was not supposed to happen.
Linda
Hello Stranger by Katherine Center
Sadie Montgomery suffers from facial blindness after surgery to repair a leaking blood vessel in the brain. She sees parts of a face but not the frontal view she is used to seeing. She has to paint a portrait for an upcoming art show and her neighbor Joe offers to be her model. She also has a fantasy involving the handsome new veterinarian Dr. Oliver Addison. He was supposed to meet for coffee but never showed. She later told him she had found someone she had fallen in love with. Sadie realizes her relationship with Dr. Addison is a fantasy and Joe is real. They fall in love and he says he will go to the art show with her. Then she sees him moving out of the apartment building and he acts cold toward her. What is going on?
neil
The Exchange by John Grisham
Always a winner. Keeps me on the edge of my seat.
Michelle
The Bitter Past by Bruce Borgos
This first book in the Porter Beck Series was a fabulous choice for a recent road trip with my husband. Opening with the discovery of the body of an FBI agent, this narrative never let up until the final pages. Layer in a Cold War spy story and scenes at a nuclear testing site and you have a nearly perfect police procedural thriller. I’m not sure why this flew under the radar during its arrival last summer, but I’m here to encourage fans of Gregg Hurwitz, Michael Koryta, and Lee Child to pick up a copy.
Cindee
Mad Honey by Jodi Picoult and Jennifer Finney Boylan
One of the best books I have read this year. Also loved the author chat.
Simonne
V is for Vengeance by Sue Grafton
Another great read in the Kinsey Milhorne series.
Cindee
The Little Paris Bookshop by Nina George
Poetry merges with fictional story telling in this novel about love, loss and a bookseller who is an apothecary of books.
Rose
The Last One by Will Dean
Terrifying. Imagine waking up on a luxury ocean liner and finding that you are one of only a few people remaining on the ship. Caz thinks that she and her partner, Pete, are crossing the Atlantic to America. However, the day after embarking, she wakes to find Pete, and all the other passengers gone. Then, she slowly encounters a few other people on the ship, and they realize they are on the ship alone, with no one steering the boat, no food, no electricity, no chance.
Where is everyone else, and why did they all disappear? Just when you think you are okay, you read the last line of the novel. Utterly terrifying!
Sarah
The Pianist From Syria by Aeham Ahmad
Excellent memoir by a gifted pianist describing the experiences and the hardships his family endured during the war in Syria.
Hilary
How to Say Babylon by Safiya Sinclair
I knew next to nothing about the Rastafarian movement, which originated in Jamaica, before I read this incredible, lyrical memoir about a woman who survived her father’s abuse and attempts to oppress her due to his fear of “Babylon” (the White, Christian world beyond the small world he created for his family). Sinclair, who is an award-winning poet, is a most eloquent writer; her story of survival and finding her voice is unlike anything I’ve ever read. This will be the book that I will recommend to everyone!
Jeanne
America Fantastica by Tim O’Brien
AMERICA FANTASTICA by Tim O’Brien provides a mirror glimpse into what American society has become as it began its long ride downhill to what the country has become today, filled with violence and outlandish lies. The author has masterfully and impressively provided readers with an insight into America today and how it got to this point. I received an Advance Reader’s Edition of this book and these opinions are strictly my own. At times it was a little hard for me to follow, thus the four-star rating.
Simonne
Switchboard Soldiers by Jennifer Chiaverini
Interesting book about young women who manned the switchboards in France during WWI. I found it to be more of a soap opera and not very realistic in depicting people and their emotions. All the women were clamoring to be near the front lines. Really?
Simonne
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Hollywood story featuring an unlikeable glamour queen.
Beth
The New Couple in 5B by Lisa Unger
Lisa Unger has written some great novels, so I'm always anxious to read her latest. But THE NEW COUPLE IN 5B is not her best. The first 200 or so pages of this book are repetitious and pretty ho-hum. Rosie tells us over and over how she resents her upbringing by parents who were superstitious fakes. At the same time, she tells a ghost story. Unger's main premise is that Rosie and Chad, a married couple, have inherited an apartment in an old building that seems to be cursed. Throughout the years many of its residents have died there, some murdered, others APPARENT suicides. But the ghosts: the story would have been better off without those.
Julie
Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson
“Sometimes, the stories we don’t tell about ourselves matter even more than the things we do say.” As the book begins, estranged siblings, Byron and Benny, are brought together after their mother’s death to receive instructions she left with her lawyer. Eleanor Bennett has left behind a Black Cake in her freezer with a note for them to “share it when the time is right,” but that’s not all. She also left an audio recording for her children to listen to, which ultimately reveals who they are where they came from. Steeped in culture and complexity, BLACK CAKE is a story you don’t want to miss. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys losing themself in a good book as they’re transported to another time and place. Perfect for book clubs!
Claire
We Shall Be Monsters by Tara Sim
The fantasy world of WE SHALL BE MONSTERS drew me in -- the monsters that may be less monstrous than the populace believes, the witch hunts, a spreading plague, the propaganda and politics around it all. It's an interesting set up and Kajal's desire to resurrect a sister that doesn't seem to want to come back interested me, too.
Sandy
Daisy Darker by Alice Feeney
Very unusual story with a very unusual ending! Really loved this book.
Tessa
The Christmas Cookie Chronicles by Lori Wilde
I knew going into it that this collection of novellas (originally published separately) would be a schmaltzy romance. I've read another work by Wilde previously and liked it; I found this one charming for the genre, but unremarkable.
Agnes
Yellowface by R. F. Kuang
Two young women are pursuing careers as writers. Athena Liu is a literary star even before she graduates while June Hayward gets her first novel published to little acclaim. When June witnesses Athena’s death in a freak accident, she seizes the opportunity to steal her latest unpublished manuscript. June passes off the novel as her own and becomes the next literary darling. Soon she’ll discover the flip side of all this attention. This book is a brilliant satirical thriller that sheds a light on the publishing industry and the impact of social media. It tackles all of today’s hot-button topics — privilege, appropriation, and authenticity — in a funny and snarky page-turner.
Amy
Angels of the Resistance by Noelle Salazar
Great book about WWII. Although I enjoyed THE FLIGHT GIRLS by this author a bit more, it was still a great read!
Colleen
Again and Again by Jonathan Evison
What an extraordinary book about an aging man who believes that he has lived many lives. It is hard not to believe him when he retells each life with so much detail. He meets an "Angel" in his most recent caretaker at the home he lives in. A real page-turner, trying to find out more about the main character, Eugene.
Rose
Beach Read by Emily Henry
January Andrews is devastated to learn that her dad was leading a double life. After his death, she inherits his beach house and goes there to spend time contemplating how to write her next romance novel. But, she no longer believes that love is possible. She meets her grumpy next-door neighbor, Augustus (Gus) Everett, and realizes that he is her college nemesis. He always commented on her "happily ever after" endings, while he wrote more gritty stories. They strike an unlikely truce, that they will each learn and write the other's genre, taking each other on weekend trips to solidify the research. But, no one is allowed to fall in love. Sweet story about second chances and discovering what makes us happy.
Rose
The Coworker by Freida McFadden
Creepy story about two women who work at a firm. When Dawn doesn't show up for work one day, Natalie becomes concerned. Dawn's schedule is precise, and Natalie knows something must be wrong. Plus, Dawn had requested that Natalie, and their boss, Seth, meet her to discuss something very important. The disappearance is concerning. Natalie gets arrested for Dawn's murder, but things get even more strange and sinister. When you find out what the secrets are behind the women's story - you will understand the motive, but the ending is chilling.
Rose
Go As a River by Shelley Read
Beautiful story of a young woman, Torie, who meets a stranger, Wil, one day. However, he is "Injun" and her family and the town reject him. But, Tori falls in love, and they meet secretly. Tori becomes pregnant and runs away to have the child, but she realizes she can't raise the baby, and gives him away. The story tells the poignant tale of a mother's love, loss, grief, and reawakening in two voices. It is simply beautiful.
Elizabeth
The Wishing Bridge by Viola Shipman
Will Henri really sell her family business to a huge corporation - the business her father created in their basement? Henri was told by her boss that if she didn't come up with a big idea and deal by the end of the year, she was going to be fired. After that threat, she thought of her family's business and headed home for Christmas for the first time in years. If you need a sweet read, don't miss THE WISHING BRIDGE. All of Wade’s warmth oozes from every word and page.
Elizabeth
The German Dressmaker by Susan Shalev
Lilly was down to her last dollar with the only thing being left was for her to go into a brothel even though she was a very talented seamstress. She was terrified. Heinrich, a German officer swept her away, protected her from this fate, and they fell in love. Don't miss it...you will be missing wonderful characters and a beautiful story even though it is told amid the horrors of WWII.
Elizabeth
The Whitehall in Traitor by Julia Kelly
Evelyn Redfern comes from a notorious family that had Evelyn in the middle of a child custody case. When her mother died, and her father didn’t want her, she became known as the Paris Orphan. To ease her situation, Evelyn found solace in reading mysteries. I liked her other books better, but a good storyline.
Elizabeth
The Lost Gift to the Italian Island by Barbara Josselsohn
Does Giulia Sancino have the secret to how Tori and her daughter’s life have been playing out? We go back-and-forth in time from Italy with Giulia during WWII to present day 2019 when secrets about Tori's family are revealed after seeing a wedding dress in a museum in Italy. You will fall in love with all the characters and of course Italy.
Elizabeth
The Engagement Party by Darby Kane
No one wanted to go to the engagement party of a college friend who had been engaged numerous times, especially since it was on a remote island and they all had a secret they knew would come up. More than the secret came up. Would they get off the island alive? When they found a friend dead and with a note on him that said, "Time to Tell The Truth", they knew they shouldn't have come.
Maryjean
Dead Fall by Brad Thor
Intriguing. Great escapism.
Andi
Christmas in Peachtree Bluff by Kristy Woodson Harvey
Book 4 of the Peachtree Bluff Series. When I first started this series, I wasn't sure if I would continue (some weird fat shamming in the first). I'm glad I did though. Book 4 is set during the Christmas season. All of the characters are back together again! One thing that stood out to me is that there is a new POV in this one. As the years go on some of the grand children are now staring to become main characters. This book was filled with all the Christmas feels. Hurricanes, new romances, and growth of old romances. All around a solid book. I would actually say it's my favorite book of the series so far!
Francine
The Leftover Woman by Jean Kwok
One of the best books I’ve read this year.
Liz
Life Dust by Pam Webber
Nettie and Andy have grown up together. They are soul mates. Now engaged to be married, Andy is about to be shipped off to Vietnam while Nettie remains behind to continue her schooling to become a nurse. The story is hopeful, heartbreaking and beautifully written. The reader will laugh and cry as you follow Andy and Nettie through the trials and tribulations of their year apart.
Cecilia
My Name is Barbra by Barbra Streisand
MY NAME IS BARBRA covers six decades of Streisand's career told by the legend herself. Excellent for fans.
Rose
Raiders of the Lost Heart by Jo Segura
The title is a twist on the movie title "Raiders of the Lost Ark", so of course it is a love story about archeologists. Dr. Socorro "Corrie" Mejia has dedicated her life's work to the discovery of the remains of Aztec warrior Chimalli, who she believes is an ancestor. Her rival is Dr. Ford Matthews who pulled the dig as well as a prized position at Yale from her, or so she believes.
When she is asked to participate in the dig she balks when she finds that Ford is leading the dig. They immediately start bickering, but when Corrie talks to Ford about what is troubling him their defenses crumble and they recognize how much they are attracted to each other. However, the dig is threatened by theft and an unscrupulous investor. Steamy!
Ginny
The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store by James McBride
The characters were so vividly described and the storyline kept adding new elements, each of which made me want more of both the people and their lives.
Joan
The Feather Thief by Kirk Wallace Johnson
Overall, I enjoyed it. It got a little tedious at times with too much detail.
Rose
The Spare Room by Andrea Bartz
This book immediately pulled me in, but then it got VERY strange. Kelly and Mike are engaged, but he calls it off after they move to Philadelphia. Kelly is devastated, but she moves out, and moves in with a school friend, Sabrina, and Sabrina's husband, Nathan. Then it gets very weird.
Sabrina is an author, writing steamy stories. Kelly starts imagining herself as the main character in the book. She enters into a relationship with both Sabrina and Nathan. Later, she discovers some information in their home about a former woman in their lives. She begins to suspect foul play. You will be surprised by the ending because, really, it comes from out of left field.
Rose
The Paris Agent by Kelly Rimmer
A heartbreaking story of two women who worked as spies for the resistance in WWII, as well as a man that loved one of them. After her mom died, Charlotte understands that her dad, Noah, wants to find Remy, the man who carried him to safety after he was hurt in the war, while working for the SOE. But when she starts trying to find information she discovers that her dad was in love with Josie a.k.a Chloe during the war. They worked together and fell in love during the mission. However, he had lost some of his memories due to injuries from the war, plus his wife was extremely jealous of his relationship with Chloe, so this was a difficult journey. Reading the stories of these women and their service and their dedication was inspiring.
Tricia
Chlorine by Jade Song
I suspect this novel will not be for everyone, but I loved it. It is one of the saddest books I've read this year, though with a touch of a horror element. Ren loves to swim, she's good at it and pushes herself to perfection. So does her parent, and her abusive coach. Failure is not an option but Ren knows she's secretly a mermaid, and as the pressure in her "human" world mount, she takes drastic steps to transform and escape the world as she knows it. It's beautifully paced with razor sharp writing, and so tragic. Be aware of body horror, and many trigger warnings.
Teresa
Being Henry by Henry Winkler
Remarkably honest about his faults and weaknesses, quick to give credit to others for his successes, Henry Winkler has led a troubled life, and is only now, in his late seventies, becoming a whole person. He was so totally typecast as The Fonz, he spent years unable to get another major role. Yes, the earnings from Happy Days and the sporadic acting, producing, and directing he did manage to allow him an expensive lifestyle, but he’s never content truly happy with himself. He’s still the kid with dyslexia who can’t make his parents happy, can’t fit in with his peers, and suffers from imposter syndrome in all he does. This memoir reminds me in some ways of Prince Harry in THE SPARE.
Alina
Circe by Madeline Miller
The author very cleverly expands on the "life" of the mythological character Circe in a way that kept my attention throughout. I must admit that, as part of my Latin courses in high school, we read Edith Hamilton's book MYTHOLOGY and also THE ODYSSEY by Homer. CIRCE might not be a book that all readers might enjoy, but I liked it very much.
Margery
All the Sinners Bleed by S. A. Cosby
This book is fast-paced, relevant, heartbreaking and poignant all in one story. The story starts off with what you, sadly, may think is going to be a typical school shooting story, but Cosby weaves race, religion, murder, forgiveness and reconciliation to leave you questioning your own thinking. The descriptions create an imagine that will make you uncomfortable enough to have your stomach churn through the book. Titus the main character is complicated and the reader is never sure if he will ever end up as the hero of the story. The strongest quality of this book is Cosby’s use of language. Events, words, biblical references and even Titus’s name choice propel this book into much more than just another exciting, murder mystery book.
Jane
Homefront Hero by Allie Pleiter
I was not prepared when I started reading for what comes to the army base. Captain John Gallows is home after being injured in his left in battle. He has become the Army's recruit poster boy. Leanne just sent to base as a Red Cross nurse. She teaches knitting to make socks for all the soldiers through the Red Cross. All John wants is to get back to battle, but something happens that changes all that. Sometimes God's plans are not same as ours.
Darlene
Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano
Really good!
Mary
Absolution by Alice McDermott
Very interesting story about American women in Vietnam, an under represented topic in fiction today.
Jayme
Tom Lake by Ann Patchett
3.5 rounded to 4. To be completely honest I wanted to DNF (do not finish) this book several times. It just kept plodding along with no plot or direction - or so it seemed. Then about halfway through, the book turned and I could not put it down. If you like a fast-paced, action-packed book, this one is not for you. This is a contemplative but serene look at the decisions that make a life.
Jayme
Her Majesty’s Royal Coven by Juno Dawson
3.5 rounded to 4. I loved the world building in this novel and the idea of a secret witch's coven that works with the British government was clever. However, there really wasn't much "helping the government" as the story focuses on the divisions within the coven and within society in general - very close to soap boxish. That being said the ending caught me off guard and I will now have to read the second book.
Susan
The Little Liar by Mitch Albom
Among all the Holocaust themed books, this is a standout. The characters are unforgettable and Truth is a narrator of several chapters. The applicability of the theme to the present is inescapable.
Gina
Babel by R. F. Kuang
Brilliant, thrilling, erudite - unlike anything you have read before. I felt it was an incredibly inventive labor of love. BTW, you don’t need to be a fantasy lover to adore this book. Highly recommend.
Deborah Jackson
Small Things Like These by Claire Keegan
Balancing comfort of quotidian routine and cozy family life with the consequences of doing the right thing (here saving a young girl from cruel treatment by nuns charged with her care), Keegan’s protagonist forces the reader to contemplate the meaning of Christmas and Christianity.
Jayme
Chapter and Curse by Elizabeth Penney
I loved the setting of this book. A centuries-old bookshop on Magpie Lane in Cambridge, England. I really felt like I was there. The references to classic literature and the poets of Cambridge were a nice touch, too. The supporting characters were fun - some quirky, some kind, some furry. My problem was with the MC Molly. Wow - she can go anywhere and say anything to solve a crime. It was really unbelievable. I'm not really sure what she does. She supposedly works in the bookshop, but she really drinks a lot of coffee, eats pastries and disappears for hours, searching for clues that miraculously fall in her lap. I probably will read the second book to see where the storyline goes, but not for a long while.
Chris
Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson
The writing is so lovely.
Paula
Horse by Geraldine Brooks
Have a dictionary handy because there are a lot of fancy words to lookup! Lol. Very interesting story that I didn’t realize was based on many true facts and characters. Lots of research for the author to delve through, which sometimes I think a reader doesn’t quite appreciate.
Laura
Winter Garden by Kristin Hannah
This book was about a reconciliation and family secrets. A mother, Anya has always been distant from her very different daughters. Unbeknownst to them, their mothers story was wrapped in a fairy tale that she used to tell them. The daughters come together with their mother and the truth is revealed. The truth is heartbreaking and expect to cry.
MH
Hannah’s Dream by Diane Hammond
Delightful story about a zoo elephant and her keeper who tries to get her to a retirement elephant farm so she won’t be confined in chains in a small space at night. He attempts this against the wishes of the new zoo director, who provides the story with a great deal of humor.
Lori
Mad Honey by Jodi Picoult and Jennifer Finney Boylan
Interesting story with some good info on transgender issues, but resolution of some of the plot lines was very predictable.
Michele
A Million Little Choices by Tamera Alexander
Betrayal leads to deep hurt. Hurt that may be forgiven, but not forgotten.
Sheree
The Museum of Failures by Thrity Umrigar
I love a good family story. I thought it was a little slow getting into, but by the end I thoroughly enjoyed it. I am passing it along to a friend.
Eileen
Wolfsong by TJ Klune
The first in a series, this fantasy by TJ Klune captured me from page one. I don't usually read fantasy, but I've read three of his books so far and all are so beautifully written that I couldn't pass this one up. As usual, his character descriptions are so will written that they steal a place in your heart immediately. The story revolves around a family who we learn are werewolves, and the boy next door who doesn't fit in to society, who they befriend and accept into their closed community. As usual with Klune's works, have a box of tissues handy when you read this exceptional book.
Susan
Sword Catcher by Cassandra Clare
A different genre than my normal read, very enjoyable though.
Linda
Everything Inside by Edwidge Danticat
These are exquisite short stories about Haitian immigrants with the resilience to move on despite having suffered loss and trauma; the endings are not always "happily ever after."
Dorothy
The Christmas Bookshop by Jenny Colgan
A sweet story about family relationships, work life in historic Edinburgh with a love interest included. The author lives in Scotland and has described the old town. A good book club read for Christmas.
Pam
The Last Devil to Die by Richard Osman
Another great book in this series, this one delves into life's choices and challenges. Very well written with wonderful characters.
Beth
American Ramble by Neil King, Jr.
I really enjoyed this memoir covering Neil's walk from DC to NYC. I felt like I had to slow down to enjoy the walk with him.
Elizabeth
Looking for Jane by Heather Marshall
The history of the right to an abortion in Canada was handled very well and was very interesting. However, the number of characters and characters with name changes, as well as the multiple timelines, made this book very confusing. I wanted to love it, but I couldn't.
Donna
A Beautiful Rival by Gill Paul
The no holds barred rivalry between Elizabeth Arden and Helena Rubenstein made for such an interesting read. Those ladies would go any length to one-up the other, including hiring past spouses and inserting spies into their organizations. I also enjoyed the tidbits of information about the depression and World War II years.
Carol
Just One Damned Thing After Another by Jodi Taylor
This is part of the Chronicles of St Mary’s Series. Time travel, mystery, adventures, romance, comedy, history, science. Everything you could ask for. So great.
Sandy
The Heavens May Fall by Allen Eskens
Didn't see that ending coming, which is why I love Allen Eskens. Detective Max Rupert and attorney Boady Sanden's friendship is being pushed to the breaking point. Max is convinced that Jennavieve Pruitt was killed by her husband Ben. Boady is equally convinced that Ben, his client, is innocent. As the case unfolds the two are forced to confront their own personal demons.
Jeannr
One Christmas Morning by Rachel Greenlaw
ONE CHRISTMAS MORNING by Rachel Greenlaw is a Christmas story with hints of an enchanting, magical modern-day Dickens tale. It is full of romance, second chances, and rediscovering oneself. The author did a great job in creating and crafting the characters and truly captured the joy and magic of the holiday season in this book. I received an uncorrected proof of this book and these opinions are strictly my own.
Adrien
The Book of Longings by Sue Monk Kidd
I liked the premise of the book and the information it contained, but I felt it lacked entertainment value and was often bored with it.
Adrien
South of the Buttonwood Tree by Heather Webber
This book was great. So loaded with both love and hate. Maybe not hate, just the ugly side of what people will do in the name of love and/or rightousness. The story is set in small town Buttonwood where the Buttonwood Tree gives advice in the form of a button to those who seek it.
The book starts off with Oleta Blackstock’s legal plea regarding the custody of a baby. No way could Blue be a good mother to that baby. She is a Bishop, and all Bishops were trouble. The whole town knew that! SOUTH OF THE BUTTONWOOD TREE is an enjoyable, sweet story. Pretty sure it just got me out of a reading slump.
Lonnie
The Twelve Topsy-Turvy, Very Messy Days of Christmas by James Patterson and Tad Safran
So much fun and totally different from most Christmas novels. I loved it!
Elizabeth
Pineapple Street by Jenny Jackson
This is a book about the ultra-rich in Brooklyn Heights, told from three perspectives- two rich sisters and their sister-in-law, a middle class outsider who marries into the family. It's a quick read and somewhat damning look at the cluelessness of the 1%. But it's got some meat to it too and was a page-turner for me. A nice first book from this author.
Anne
The White Hare by Jane Johnson
Captivating, intriguing and enthralling novel.
Karen
The Rose Code by Kate Quinn
Three women are recruited to Bletchley Park, where the best minds in Britain train to break German military codes. Lively Osla has Prince Philip sending her roses – but proves more than a society girl by translating decoded enemy secrets. Self-reliant Mab masters code breaking machines as she conceals poverty of her East-End London upbringing. And shy Beth proves to be one of the best female cryptanalysts.
Betty
The Running Grave by Robert Galbraith
I've enjoyed the Cormoran Strike series since THE CUCKOO'S CALLING. The relationship between Strike and Robin Ellacott keeps me coming back to see what's happening. THE RUNNING GRAVE was one of Rowling's best.
Jean
The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier and Clay by Michael Chabon
Set before, during and after WWII, this story of friendship, love, creativity, and magic drew me in. The main characters are endearing. I liked them. Their lives are focused on the comic book industry in which they work. They find ways to get most of what they want out of life, although there are some sad and sobering failures.
Coleen
Bright Lights, Big Christmas by Mary Kay Andrews
A feel-good Christmas story!
Susan
Bright Lights, Big Christmas by Mary Kay Andrews
A good book to read before the holidays. Kerry has to go to New York to help her brother sell Christmas trees and goes unwillingly, but surprises await her in the city.
Betty Jo
No Two Persons by Erica Bauermeister
The interesting premise is that books speak to different people and can change lives. Enjoyabe read.
Betty Jo
Local Woman Missing by Mary Kubica
I listened to the audio and the reader was engaging. I had to finish to figure out who was the culprit.
Ann Marie
Nestlings by Nat Cassidy
Well, I certainly didn't like this book nearly as much as Nat's last book, MARY. I was really hoping to like It, but although I like Nat Cassidy's style of writing, I wasn't stoked about gargoyles, babies, and changelings.
Tessa
The Dictionary of Lost Words by Pip Williams
"Some words are more important than others - I learned this, growing up in the Scriptorium. But it took me a long time to understand why." I like the way Williams put the focus on the "missing women" in history. She is far from strident, but she is insistent and caused this reader to think about all the missing women in "HIS"tory.
Shelley
Loyalty by Lisa Scottoline
I was disappointed with this novel as I usually love Lisa Scottoline's books. This one was more tedious to get through and did not give me any characters to root for or like. I was unable to recommend this one to my book club.
Susan
There There by Tommy Orange
Very sad, very tough read. Characters seem all-too-real as does the situations in which they find themselves. Voices change with the characters, a challenging aspect of the novel.
Wanda
The Only One Left by Riley Sager
Gripping story with turns at every page!! A book one can visualize each character. Five star rating. A story of a caregiver who has taken a job with her patient that she is afraid of due to past history and wonders if they are true or not. Keeps you enticed with each chapter!!
Debbie
Old God's Time by Sebastian Barry
Too much description of the landscape and the weather, and too little action. The story involves a retired policeman, Tom Kettle, now living by the sea and enjoying his solitude. Enter two detectives hoping to entice Tom to aid them in an investigation. One third of the book involves this journey into Tom and the detective’s meeting. The highlight of this scene rests with Tom preparing Welsh rabbit and one of the detectives falling violently sick. Not a fast-moving story.
Debbie
The Only One Left by Riley Sager
So many twists and turns in this mystery that spans over fifty years. In 1929, three of the four members of the Hope family die: Winston, Evangeline, and Virginia. Lenora, the seventeen-year- old daughter remains alive while her parents and sister are dead by violent death. Enter Kit McDeere, a caregiver, who has secrets from her own past, to care for the now wheelchair bound Lenora Hope. The novel uncovers many themes: financial abuse, elder abuse, violence, forced sex with servants, suicide, traumatic birth, teenage love and pregnancy, and opiate addiction. Like a Shakespearean story, THE ONLY ONE LEFT, contains multiple identities with the characters. Just when the reader thinks where the truth unravels, another snag enters the story.
Michelle
Tell Me Everything by Minka Kelly
4.5 stars for me. The definition of a story of resilience after all of the trauma she endured as a child. Well told, a great listen on audio, read by the author.
Barbara
North Woods by Daniel Mason
I’m so glad that I went into this without any expectations. I was constantly surprised by the form of the writing and the plot.
Donna
The River We Remember by William Kent Krueger
This novel represents literary fiction at its best. Set in Jewel, Minnesota in 1958, readers get a glimpse of small town life and the wide range of characters in a small town. Jimmy Quinn, a wealthy resident, is found dead. He was disliked by many individuals with several alleged murderers explored. The emotions following World War II are evident with several residents suffering from post traumatic stress syndrome, loss of family, war wounds, and hostility towards individuals from other countries. I have read several of Kreuger’s novels but this is at the head of the chart. My favorite book of 2023.
Joanne
Let Us Descend by Jesmyn Ward
I had not read any of Ms. Ward’s previous novels and there was so much positive feedback on this one that I was prepared to be dazzled. I was not - perhaps another book about the hardships of enslaved people (I have read many) was not what I had expected. It was well written without a doubt, but it was so depressing and the “magical” aspect did not strike a cord with me. Not at all sure why this was so highly touted.
Emily
The Secret Life of Sunflowers by Marta Molnar
A book club selection. The author did an excellent job on writing about the tragic lives of Vincent Van Gogh and his brother, Theo.
Dorothy
The River We Remember by William Kent Krueger
Superbly written and with an engrossing plot, this story kept me riveted till the very end. I was very glad that the author pulled things together in the afterward ... and there was a satisfying ending in spite of some hard events.
Mary Lou
Small Mercies by Dennis Lehane
A story of revenge featuring a mother whose only child, a daughter, has died under mysterious circumstances. Many people know more than they are willing to tell and she uses all of her will and power to get to the bottom of this heartbreak. At the same time, there is great community unrest as the schools in the neighborhood are being integrated and blacks are being bussed into a predominately Irish and very prejudiced population. Fast read with heartfelt emotion. Fabulous.
Sean
West With Giraffes by Lynda Rutledge
WEST WITH GIRAFFES is the mostly true story about two left for dead giraffes being driven cross country to become two of America's first giraffes in captivity. The book was delightful and sad and interesting and so many other things. Main character, Woody, is maybe the most realistic 18 year old boy ever written as he's in way over his head but willing to do anything to escape the Dust Bowl. The book went a few different ways than I expected and I really enjoyed how it was written although at times it slowed down to a crawl. 1930s Americana was a character unto itself and this journey was truly amazing. Overall, a very good book, especially for animal lovers.
Elizabeth
The Little Liar by Mitch Alborn
Very engrossing. Narrated by "Truth" and definitely sad!
Marilyn
People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry
A very weak re-write of "When Harry Met Sally". Our book club did not really enjoy it, but made the best of the conversation we could.
Kristen
A Grandmother Begins the Story by Michelle Porter
I listened to the full cast audio of this and while I got a bit confused at first, I fell into the rhythm of the storytelling quickly. This is truly an extraordinary work and unique as well.
Noreen
Wonder Drug by Jennifer Vanerbes
This book is about Thalidomide and the woman who fought to keep it out of the U.S. Unbeknownst to many it was already here. It is infuriating to read of the lying and deceitfulness of so many involved. Plus the sexism. If Barbara Moulton and Frances Kelsey were men it would have been a whole different story. I eliminated one star as I couldn't handle all of the chemical info...I skimmed over that. This will really tick you off at drug companies and the FDA. Gee, sounds like the Opioid epidemic. And believe it or not the Sackler family is mentioned. Everyone should read this book.
Claire
Under the Surface by Diana Urban
I was mostly drawn to the setting, which I think inherently had great potential for suspense and horror. The teen drama so far could be interesting. I'm neutral on the characters; I can see how they could play off each other interesting ways.
Nancy
Shark Heart by Emily Habeck
If you can accept the premise that a person can morph into a shark, that a woman can become a kimono dragon and a pregnant woman can give birth to birds, then this book is for you. It's well written, especially for a first-time author, and easy to read, but I think I missed the point. It's definitely a love story that deals with motherhood, loss and being able to let go. I kept thinking that the morph'ing into creatures was symbolic of deteriorating from Alzheimer's or cancer, but my book club members disagreed with me. You'll have to read the book and decide for yourself.
GAYLE A
The Maid by Nita Prose
I love mysteries. Love the character, Molly. Love Gran's sayings. I am going to recommend this book to our book club.
Emily
All But Safe by N. L. Hinkens
N. L. Hinkens has the knack of writing thrillers that would draw the readers in immediately and keep them engaged throughout the story. Her latest ALL BUT SAFE gripped me from the beginning with the shaky marriage between Cash and Lexi, which later turns nightmarish when they keep receiving some creepy and threatening messages! I recommend to anyone who loves a chilling thriller!
Emily
The Blue Bar by Damyanti Biswas
THE BLUE BAR starts with the investigation of a decapitated and dismembered body by Inspector Arnav Rajput. As the investigation goes on, more bodies of the similar descriptions were discovered at different locations in Mumbai. Inspector Arnav then realizes he’s looking into some cold cases with a possible serial killer on the loose. THE BLUE BAR is Book 1 of Blue Mumbai Thriller, which can be read as standalone. This thriller is authentic, original and a page-turner!
Emily
The Blue Monsoon by Damyanti Biswas
THE BLUE MONSOON leads Senior Inspector Arnav into a sacred Mumbai temple during this gloomy and depressing monsoon rain, where a mutilated body, with a cult tantric symbol was found. When the body count of the same MO increases, and the fierce torrential rain further complicates the investigations, Senior Inspector Arnav is racing against time to catch the killer before more harm is being done! Damyanti Biswas has said that sequels are tricky beasts, but she has outdone herself in THE BLUE MONSOON, the sequel to THE BLUE BAR! THE BLUE MONSOON is gripping, tense, and spine-chilling. I truly enjoyed this Blue Mumbai Thriller series.
Abby
We Are Okay by Nina LaCour
This is a YA novel about a college-aged woman who has had much loss in her personal life. She is in college across the country from where she grew up and requests special permission to stay in the dorm during her winter holiday break. She is the only student staying behind. Her dearest high school friend, who she has been avoiding since the summer, comes to visit for a few days before Christmas and many truths are told during this time. The book is an emotional roller coaster - your heart breaks for Marin as she struggles to find peace.
Francisca
Across the River and Into the Trees by Ernest Hemingway
I’ve been a fan of Hemingway’s since I first read THE OLD MAN AND THE SEA. This isn’t his best-known work, still, there is something about his writing that captures my attention. The short declarative sentences make the work immediate and bring this reader right into the story. But the older I get the more I’m disturbed by the way the women are portrayed, or more accurately by the way Hemmingway writes the male/female relationships. Maybe that’s my wife’s influence.
Tessa
The Edge of the Earth by Christina Schwarz
The book jacket synopsis hints at danger in a remote location, not just from the elements but an unexpected presence hiding in the wilderness. But this is so much more than a thriller based on isolation and the fear of the unknown. Trudy is a wonderful character, but the character that most surprised me was Euphemia (Mrs. Crawley). While I saw the critical scene coming a mile off, I still enjoyed reading it and seeing how Schwarz would craft this denouement.
Richard N B
Letters From Father Christmas by J R R Tolkien
This charming volume duplicates the letters from Father Christmas which were sent to Tolkien’s children beginning in 1920 and continuing for the next twenty-three years. The letters relate the many adventures that Father Christmas and his helpers – The North Polar Bear, elves, etc. – have both in preparation for the big day and throughout the year. I enjoyed the inventiveness of these missives and loved the hand-drawn illustrations.
Andi
The Christmas Spirits on Tradd Street by Karen White
This is book 6 of 7 in the Tradd Street series. Every one of these books has a great historical mystery element (this was spot on). Although, I felt this book lacked what I was hoping for - the Christmassy feel just wasn't there. I am also starting to feel like the character growth is a bit frozen in the series. I'll read the last book and see how it goes since I'm this far in! Fingers crossed...
Suzanne
Judgment Prey by John Sandford
I love the character of Lucas Davenport, so I have been waiting for this book to finally read. I was not disappointed. This also included a frequent fellow detective Flowers. Davenport works as a U.S. Marshall and Flowers works for BCA.
Tessa
Holly Jolly Cowboy by Jessica Clare
Totally predictable, given the genre, but hey, there are cute dogs in abundance, not to mention that hunky cowboy. And, of course, perky, optimistic Holly will bake and cook her way into his heart. Will there be bumps in the road to romance? How could there not be? Will there be tears shed and hearts broken? Certainly. Will there be a happy ending? No doubt. This holiday cowboy romance is enjoyable at any season.
Carole
Cross Stitch by Jazmina Barrera
This was a wonderful book centering on three young women. One of the women, Citlali, dies and memories of her and her friendship with the two other women, Milada and Dalia, are fleshed out throughout the book. It's a wonderful look at women from a culture different than my own and of a different generation from my own. Interspersed through the story are bits of information about the history of stitching with comparisons to many other things, such as stitching up wounds on the body. I had no idea how far back stitching goes in history. Just a wonderful book!
Francisca
On Earth We're Briefly Gorgeous by Ocean Vuong
3.5 stars. A young Vietnamese man, now living in America, writes a letter to his mother who cannot read. Vuong uses a nonlinear storyline but weaves an intricate tapestry from Vietnam to Connecticut, incorporating his thoughts on war, racism, drugs, love, and culture. The author is a poet and this novel has the ethereal feel of poetry, with some passages so beautiful as to take my breath away, and others so raw with pain as to make me wince, even cringe.
Evelyn
The Leftover Woman by Jean Kwok
Great book. Loved the twists.
Richard N B
The Devil's Highway by Luis Alberto Urrea
In May 2001, twenty-six men tried to cross into the USA from Mexico along a stretch of desert known as “The Devil’s Highway.” Only twelve made it out alive. This was a horrifying episode and Urrea’s reporting of it in this book earned a nomination for a Pullitzer. He handles the details of the journey with competing emotions: hope, outrage, compassion, frustration, despair. He is honest about what happened and fair when reporting both the positions of “The 26” and of the Border Patrol agents.
Gretchen
The Spy Coast by Tess Gerritsen
This was so good that it had me getting up at night to listen to another chapter. Looking forward to the next book in the Martini series.
Rose
Midnight is the Darkest Hour by Ashley Winstead
When a skull is found in the swamp in Bottom Springs, LA and is considered a homicide, librarian Ruth Cornier is terrified. She reaches out to her best friend, Everett Duncan to warn him. But, he isn't worried. Years earlier, Everett saved Ruth from an attack by bad boy Renard Michaels and dropped his body and severed head in the swamp. Ruth, the daughter of the ultra conservative preacher and his wife, secretly binged on Twilight and romanticized Edward and Bella. She and Everett hid their secrets from the town, but Everett had an even darker secret, that Ruth finally guessed. The town is also hiding secrets. The book is a bit of a reflection and commentary on the evangelical fever in the country. The ending is a bit of a mystery.
Rose
The Berry Pickers by Amanda Peters
Told in two voices, Joe and Norma recount their lives growing up and reflect on how an event when they were children changed their lives. Now in their 50s, they both grew up with this event overshadowing their lives. Joe and his sister, Ruthie, were resting after berry picking with their family on a farm in Maine. Four-year-old Ruthie goes missing. Joe searches but can't find her, this affects him for the rest of his life. Norma grows up with a mother who had lost many babies to miscarriage. Her Aunt June and friend Alice, try to help Norma reconcile her mother's illness with Norma's life choices. Norma finds out the secret that she is Ruthie late in life. Heartbreaking story.
Tessa
The Santa Suit by Mary Kay Andrews
This is a charming holiday rom-com with a bit of a mystery. The small town is full of colorful characters, and as Ivy begins to become known around town, she opens up to her new friends and to the possibility of a new romance. The ending is neatly tied up in a pretty ribbon, but hey, it’s a holiday romance, so I’m okay with that.
Francisca
Infinite Country by Patricia Engel
Patricia Engel has crafted a story of immigration and emigration, of oppression and prejudice, of hopes and dreams, and of the bonds of family. The storyline moves back and forth in time from current-day adolescent Talia, to her young parents’ first meeting and falling in love, to their struggles in the USA, and how Talia, a US-born citizen, wound up in Columbia with her father rather than in New Jersey with her mother and two siblings. We see the sacrifices made by parents for the sake of their children, but also the hurt and feelings of abandonment suffered by the children separated from a parent.
Anita
The Warsaw Sisters by Amanda Barratt
This is a historical novel set in Warsaw Poland during WWII. It is written beautifully and is a very interesting but disturbing novel. It is about twin sisters Antonina and Helena. Antonina is in love with Marek, a young Jewish violinist. When the Jewish people are placed in a ghetto, Antonina works with a group to remove the children from the ghetto and hide them and save them. Helena gets involved with an army group to fight for her country. I enjoyed this book, but it was very depressing in parts.
