This contest period's winners were Jennifer S., Myrna P. and Thomas B., who each received a copy of DRAGON TEETH by Michael Crichton and TESTIMONY by Scott Turow.
Sandy
The Perfume Collector by Kathleen Tessaro
One of the best books I have read in a long time! Grace Munroe receives a letter telling her she is the heir to a fortune from someone she has never met and does not know. She travels to Paris and soon finds out who this woman is and why she is the beneficiary.
Sharmin
Crossing to Safety by Wallace Stegner
Beautifully written, at a time when friendships enjoyed a slower pace of life. We all could identify with the characters.
Brady
Growing Up by Russell Baker
This is an autobiography of the author's youth during the 30s and 40s when times were far more relaxed than they are now, even with WWII going on. His mother was an optimist and a most controlling person who got things done. The last 100 pages are particularly interesting as Russ explain how he met his wife and all they went through before they got married...years and years.
When very young he wanted to be a "writer" when he grew up and that is what he finally became. This is a heartwarming story well told.
Ann
Dead Wake by Erik Larson
Thrilling true tale.
Cat
The Fourteenth Letter by Claire Evans
The most unlikely heroes, but heroes you bond with instantly. If London in 1881 is your cup of tea you will love this mystery. This is a continually changing story and each storyline will not let you put the book down. My only disappointment is this may be a stand-alone debut and I really want to follow these characters for a long time!
Nancy
Before the Fall by Noah Hawley
BEFORE THE FALL tells the story of a private charter jet that crashes into the sea on a flight from Martha's Vineyard to New York. Only two of eleven people on board survive -- a down-on-his-luck painter and a four-year-old. Jumping from present to past, the book tells the back stories of the people on board, but keeps you guessing until the very end about who or what caused the plane to crash. I didn't get it right. That makes it, to me, a good book. My husband liked it, too. And he didn't get the ending right, either!
Bridget
The Fact of a Body by Alexandria Marzano-Lesnevich
Two stories, the author's and a murder victim's. Both very dark, but written in such a way that I couldn't stop reading.
Sandi
New Boy by Tracy Chevalier
This story takes place over the span of one day. From the start of the school day to shortly after the last bell rings. Osei was changing schools - again. Dee was given the duty of escorting Osei and answering his questions. This was reassuring,since it was not only his first day, but he was also the lone black student in this school when segregation was not all that common. Dee and Osei got along well much to the jealousy of some other students. As jealousy is wont to do, it begins to create real problems manifested itself into the form of bullying. Trying to sort this out, the adults do not see the correct picture, responsibility is not taken, reputations are injured, and children are seriously hurt.
Jeffrey
Devil May Care by Sebastian Faulks
Having just binge-read all of Ian Fleming's Bond novels, I decided to see what other authors have done with the character. I picked one at random and found echoes of all the elements Fleming used, but instead of a thriller, it all seemed flat and stale with none of the fizz that made the Fleming books so entertaining. I got through the book, but it became a chore knowing where it was going and knowing it wouldn't be much fun getting there. Next, I'm going to try one of John Gardner's attempts.
Marcia
Sycamore by Bryn Chancellor
Jess Winters has been missing for 18 years. Was she a runaway, or had she met foul play? In finding the answer, the lives of many of the towns inhabitants are revealed. There is a twist at the end. The story could have been a bit condensed from what it was.
Susan Dean
The Arrangement by Sarah Dunn
I loved this book. Lucy and Owen decide to have a open marriage for six months to make their marriage better. Of course it doesn't quite work out that way. They live in Beekman outside of New York City and there are many side stories of the people who live there.
Kathy
The Thin Man by Dasheill Hammett
Fun read, taking you back to a roaring twenties setting in New York - gangsters, murders, speakeasies. Nick and Nora Charles are on the middle of it and Nick reluctantly agrees to try to unravel a mystery, without ever missing a cocktail.
Elaine
The Little Paris Bookshop by Nina George
Wonderful book about overcoming grief.
Julie
The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead
Award-winning, alternative version of the Underground Railroad (which features an actual railroad) as it transports Cora in her attempts at escape to the north.
Marilyn
The Life We Bury by Allen Eskens
An inner-generational story of a young man, determined to finish school, and the dying man whose biography he sets out to write.
Judy
Two by Two by Nicholas Sparks
This is a story of the love of family, dealing with divorce between parents, love of a child by both, the relationship with our "growing up" family, and death of a loved one. All interplay in this story that is well worth the read. I feel so many of the author's characters might well be someone who lives next door.
Mike
Vicious Circle by C. J. Box
I love to read about the Pickett family, and Missy is back in this book.
Linda
The Charm Bracelet by Viola Shipman
I adore this book. My maternal grandmother had a charm bracelet that fascinated me as long as I can remember. My mom had one and I got one, too, I believe for my 13th birthday. As the book begins, the three or four charms described are charms we all had, too. I didn't hear stories from Grandma about all of her charms, sadly, but for many I knew of their significance because I knew much about her life story. My daughter never wanted a charm bracelet like I did. When she got married in Feb. 2016, I gave her mine as the something old. I plan to buy the book for my mom to read and then pass to my daughter - with a special note from me inside.
Gerry
Killers of the Flower Moon: The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI by David Grann
Fascinating and horrifying in equal parts, KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON describes a time known to the Osage tribe as the Reign of Terror, the intentional and systematic killing of at least two dozen -- some suggest it may have been several times that number -- Osage Indians in the early 1920s, in order to steal the wealth the tribe owned, but was not always permitted to control, in oil and mineral rights. David Grann did an impressive job researching the crimes and presenting the facts in a coherent, easy to follow narrative.
Gerry
Waiting for Snow in Havana: Confessions of a Cuban Boy by Carlos Eire
While much of the book was interesting and informative, I found the author's rather rambling, almost stream-of-consciousness style of narration a bit challenging to follow. Jumping back and forth between Havana and the U.S., from his childhood to teen years to adulthood and back again, Eire's story of the Cuban Revolution recalls events from the perspective of a wealthy child whose family stood to lose a great deal, but at least was able to fund and arrange his and his brother's exodus from the island. The most enjoyable parts of the book were stories of his carefree childhood; most difficult to read were tales of the arrest, torture, and killing of relatives and neighbors who did not fare as well as he.
Gerry
Yuge! Thirty Years of Doonesbury on Trump by G. B. Trudeau
Garry Trudeau was onto the Donald before most of us were taking any notice of him. This was a compilation of fun and usually dead-on cartoon glimpses of the Donald in action from the late 80s to today.
Gerry
The Third-Born by Mohsin Hamid
Hamid is a wonderful writer and paints vivid images with his words. THE THIRD-BORN is the story of a young Pakistani boy who moves with his family from the countryside to the city, and who is able to observe quietly the struggles around him from his relatively "safe" status as third-born child on whom few responsibilities are imposed.
Diana
Into the Water by Paula Hawkins
I had pre-ordered this book based on how much I enjoyed the author's last book, THE GIRL ON THE TRAIN. Well, this book is nowhere as good as her last book. The plot is thin, poorly crafted and worst of all, boring. There is no suspense because the mystery is obvious and not interesting.
Kay
Dead Wake by Erik Larson
Larson offers an intriguing tale of the events surrounding the sinking of The Lusitania. The book is a mix of human interest stories and history, making it more readable than just an historical account.
Becky
The Scribe of Sienna by Melodie Winawer
A 20th century neurosurgeon is transported to Siena, Italy, in 1346 AD where she becomes a scribe and falls in love. That is the short story of this vastly absorbing and intriguing novel. The characters are fully developed, especially Beatrice, Gabriele, Clara and Accorsi. The plot is constantly offering a new twist even as the threat of the Bubonic Plague approaches. The flavor of medieval Italy is beguiling. However, some of the more “indelicate” and primitive aspects of life are glossed over. The patterns of daily life in and around a bustling market and monastery are clearly set forth. I don’t think I would make Beatrice’s choices, but the book is a winner.
Raylene
Imagine Heaven by John Burke
I can imagine Heaven as being fantastic and more beautiful than anything I can see on earth, but the accounts of too many near death experiences were just that -- too much repetition of the same thing. Unfortunately, some folks had a hellish or distressing experience and were hesitant to report, but we're intended to attach greater meaning to life and less to material things. Just because millions of people have experienced NDEs doesn't mean that souls leave bodies & encounter God or other evidence for the afterlife. There are alternate explanations for NDEs: REM intrusion sleep, oxygen shortage, & other clinical circumstances. It would be nice to have a glorious reunion with friends & family, have projects but no frustrations or deadlines.
Lori
The Best of Adam Sharp by Graeme Simsion
I enjoyed reading this book. I found it well written and it kept my interest. I thought it had a lot more depth than the Rosie book I read. Except for the part of the book in Bordeaux, I found the story realistic and interesting. I enjoyed the musical references and appreciated them as they were my "era". The section in Bordeaux made it hard for me to relate to the characters, and I found all of their behavior unrealistic. Nevertheless, it was still a good read.
Debbie
Last Ride to Graceland by Kim Wright
A story embedded with tidbits of Elvis Presley, and a girl's quest for her father. Usually, a coming-of-age story features a young adult, but Cory is no young adult. Cory has lost her rhythm and hopes to find herself by driving a Blackhawk car from South Carolina to Graceland. The story climbs and sputters throughout the South as Cory makes her way on the back roads that her mother traveled before returning to South Carolina. Cory encounters two men that might be her father, but who stands as the real man in this quest. The story contains rich language and a musical cadence. Many of the minor characters present remarkable insights into human nature. I am happy to see that the characters are not perfect individuals with great hair.
Debbie
The Guest Room by Chris Bohjalian
I usually do not like books by Chris Bohjalian, so this was a surprise. The book centers on two characters: a sex slave and an upscale man. Richard Chapman allows his younger brother to conduct his bachelor party at his house. Richard's wife and daughter go to his mother-in-law's house to escape the party. What follows plummets Richard into despair and frustration. The two sex slave girls kill their captors and flee, after leaving the house sprayed with blood and evidence. The story switches perspective from Richard and Alexandra as the story unwinds. The reader sees all the angles of the story, except for the Russian men holding these girls as sex slaves. A disturbing story.
Debbie
Where the Dead Lie by C S Harris
This was not written as well as the other Sebastian St Cyr books. In this story, Hero and many of the other characters have minor roles as Sebastian races to find the man or men responsible for the terrible torture and murder of young orphans. The police show little interest in searching for the missing poor and orphaned children. Sebastian narrows his search on two men, but due to their standing in society, Sebastian must have solid evidence. C. S. Harris rants about the evils of society and despicable treatment of the poor.
Debbie
Death of a Gossip by M. C. Beaton
A cozy mystery set in the Highlands of Scotland - what a treat. M. C. Beaton introduces her red haired, lazy local policeman, Hamish MacBeth. A husband and wife team operate a fishing school in the Highlands, but this year the catch proves hard to swallow as one of the guests is murdered. I adore Hamish and his easy going approach to life. Each of the guests hides a secret, but one of the guests uncovers everyone secret. Interwoven in the murder mystery, M. C. Beaton throws lessons in fly fishing. The characters present the gamut of the social scale with the rich, unmarried lady, the poor, working woman, the social climbing American couple, the young boy needing a father, and the undistinguished major. Even Hamish presents his own quirks.
Jud
Black Widow by Daniel Silva
THE BLACK WIDOW by Daniel Silva is one of the most realistic thriller novels I have read. Gabriel Allon is one of the most authentic spies ever to exist in fiction. This is Allon’s 16th outing and he remains as fresh now as he was in the very first one. Silva is able to pull inspiration from real world events and create a riveting series that makes him one of the best thriller writers of the last 20 years. I could hardly put this book down and if you decide to read it, plan on getting very little sleep. I don’t give out a lot of 5 star ratings but I would be less than honest if I didn’t give one to THE BLACK WIDOW.
*A copy of this book is the only compensation I received in exchange for this review.*
Jud
Wings of Fire by Charles Todd
Rutledge investigates a mysterious series of deaths among members of the same family in a small English village. Quick read and a fast pace.
Jud
Invasion by D. C. Alden
With the world facing economic ruin, Europe faces a threat greater than it has ever known when an Islamic army launches an all-out attack by air, land and sea.
Jud
Tourist Season by Carl Hiaasen
Another routinely funny Hiaasen creation, filled with quirky characters and more than a few plots that come together by the last page.
Jud
A Fever of the Blood by Oscar de Muriel
Frey and McGray take on an evasive killer and a coven of witches.
Richard N B
Exodus by Leon Uris
3.5 stars. This is an epic novel covering the history of the Jewish people’s efforts to return to Palestine and form an independent state. I felt that Uris couldn’t make up his mind whether he was writing an epic romance, a war novel, or a history of the formation of Israel. It certainly made me think. And I’m glad I finally read this novel.
Shellymar
And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie
Seriously one of the best mysteries I have ever read.
Andra
Dark Matter by Blake Crouch
Reading this book requires imagination and the ability to stretch your ability to think in the abstract. It is a love story with a very big twist. It is a psychological thriller because of the twists and turns.
Elizabeth
Into the Water by Paula Hawkins
Many mysteries going on, which is good. But don’t expect INTO THE WATER to be like Paula Hawkins’ other novel, THE GIRL ON THE TRAIN. They’re not alike at all. That is not only in storyline. While I criticized THE GIRL ON THE TRAIN, I also admitted that it is unputdownable at times. INTO THE WATER isn’t, ever. Too many characters to memorize.
Margaret
Landline by Rainbow Rowell
Rainbow Rowell is a new author for me. I didn't like LANDLINE even though it won Goodread's Best Fiction for 2014. I thought this book was boring but I stuck with it hoping it would get interesting. It didn't. The plot was not enjoyable with a troubled marriage where both the husband and wife were self-centered. The wife always put her job before anything else, including spending Christmas with her family. Her husband's personality, or lack thereof, had me wondering why any woman would even consider marrying him. The premise of a magic phone with conversations from the past was not for me. I wanted to like this novel but I just didn't get it.
Miriam Boots
The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
Wonderful story about two sisters in Nazi occupied France. They do what is right even when it is hard to do so. Unforgettable.
Suzy
14th Deadly Sin by James Patterson and Maxine Paetro
I've read every one of J. P.'s Women's Murder Club books and some are better than others. This one is pretty good but they are SO formulaic and rather predictable. The best parts of the books are the recurring characters readers have come to know. There is always at least one bad guy and (I don't spoil- my reviews are more thoughts on the overall book) in this case I figured out part of the whodunnit relatively quickly as it seemed really obvious. I didn't figure out the whole thing but enough to keep saying, "A-ha!" when another clue was revealed. San Francisco is a terrific backdrop for murder mysteries and our band of female characters are strong women. Dialogue is occasionally somewhat ridiculous but I'll definitely read #15!
Gene Reams
Warriors, Saints and Scoundrels by Michael Edmonds and Samantha Snyder
The best I ever read .
Pam
Pachinko by Min Jin Lee
What an interesting, captivating novel! It was a flowing, graceful read that holds the reader's imagination. A family saga that gives us a glimpse into Korean and Japanese culture, the politics of Pachinko and the power of loyalty and love.
Lauri
Burntown by Jennifer McMahon
Great characters, unique storyline and a fast read.
Susan
Pray for Silence by Linda Castillo
I enjoyed this book very much. I intend to read more of her books.
Norene Wittlin
Cometh the Hour by Jeffrey Archer
Very absorbing.
Kathy
All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr
One of the best WWII books I have read. A blind girl and her father escape Paris when Germans invade during World War II and seek refuge at her uncle's island on the coast of France. Meanwhile, a young German boy who has found an old radio and has become quite proficient in radio repair is a soldier in the German army and eventually the two meet on the island as the war winds down.
Jill
The Charm Bracelet by Viola Shipman
This is the story of a summer family visit between a grandmother, mother, and daughter. The grandmother, Lolly, is losing her memory and,thus feels compelled to share old family stories with her daughter and granddaughter. She links the stories with the charms on her charm bracelet. The mother and daughter, Arden and Lauren, hear Lolly's stories and come to appreciate each other and their family more. Good life lessons are passed on, but I found the characters a little too perfectly imperfect, if that makes any sense. Their individual issues resolve themselves too quickly and smoothly for my taste. Also, the book's trajectory is too predictable. That said, the characters are appealing, especially Lolly, so the book is an enjoyable read.
Marilyn
The Boys in the Bunkhouse by Dan Barry
This is an informative book about a group of disabled men who lived and worked for years in very unsavory and almost inhumane conditions.
Stephanie
Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman
I absolutely loved this book. Eleanor is a unique woman who you fall in love with and cheer her on. A story of resiliency in the face of a troubled past. Go read it!
Karen
Dragon Springs Road by Janie Chang
For fans of Asian/Chinese history and culture that are constantly waiting for Amy Tan's new book: this is the book for you. It has a bit of history, a bit of fantasy and writing that reminds you very much of Ms. Tan's.
Myrna
Shakespeare Saved My Life by Laura Bates
It's hard to say who is more admirable - the prison inmate who avidly takes to the study of Shakespeare's plays, or the English professor who takes her course into the solitary confinement area of an Indiana prison. It's amazing to see how prisoners in seg find such inspiration and insight into their own lives from the actions of Shakespeare's characters!
Julie
The Evening Star by M. L. Gardner
This novel chronicles the lives of three couples as they go from a life of privilege to lives of hardship as a result of the stock market crash. The novel goes on to show how they pull their lives together and face all the ups and downs that comes with a drastic change in their lives.
Jayne
The Guest Room by Chris Bohjalian
This book was a wonderful discussion book with people having their eyes opened to a serious issue that continues to face the world.
Suzanne
Pachinko by Min Jin Lee
Last night as we gathered for our monthly meeting of Plots & Pans, we enjoyed the longest discussion of a book we have had in quite some time! A length of almost 500 pages did not deter us! Only one member had not quite finished the book but vowed she would. We marveled at how different our culture is from that of Korea and Japan yet how we all share the same hopes and dreams, longing and desires. We enjoyed discussing not only the events of the story but the characters as well. PACHINKO by Min Jin Lee is a perfect book for book clubs to discuss as well as to discuss with friends.
Marsha
The Obsidian Chamber by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child
Just when you think they cannot publish a better Pendergast novel, out comes this latest. We are led to believe that Pendergast is dead. Quite the thriller.
ILene
The Casual Vacancy by J. K. Rowling
Barry Fairbrother dies suddenly and leaves a vacancy on the Pagford Parish council. The council is evenly divided on the issue of reversing the annexation of The Fields, a lower class community compared to Pagford. Barry approved of The Fields, and the opposition now has a chance to shift the balance of the council in their favor. The story is mainly about how mean everyone is to each other, both adults and teenagers, each wanting to achieve their own selfish interests. I really liked this book. I felt that I got to know each character and did not want the book to end.
Margaret
Come Sundown by Nora Roberts
Setting is Western Montana, present day with flash backs starting about 25 years ago to now. This is a romantic suspense that's on the dark side. It involves a large, loving family who owns an upscale ranch/resort. The men run the ranch and the ladies run the resort. It's a strong family and the protagonist is Bodine, an independent woman. The villain is called "Sir" and his character injects lots of heartbreak into the family. His mentality, beliefs, and abuse were hard to read at times. Ms. Roberts does her usual great job of setting scenes like sunsets, snowfalls, riding trails, & the beautiful Montana landscapes. She put a twist near the end that I didn't see coming! Sundown is a very smart horse who has a memorable role in the novel.
Diane
Distrust That Particular Flavor by William Gibson
Interesting and provocative forward-thinking essays.
Bonnie
Ginny Moon by Benjamin Ludwig
Charming novel starring autistic teen, Ginny Moon. Ludwig really gets into Ginny's thought processes and makes us understand her world and how she sees it. Funny, smart, and tender.
Bonnie
Cork Dork by Bianca Bosker
Fascinating non-fiction about Bosker's learning to be a sommelier. It's an obsessive world and we learn so much about wine, restaurant service, and the ins and outs of a sommelier's life.
Tessa B C
One Plus One by Jojo Moyes
Four different characters tell the story: Jess, Ed, Tanzie (Jess’s daughter) and Nicky (Marty’s son and Jess’s stepson). This resulted in a slow start, while all the characters were introduced and the central conflict developed. The book jacket promises “an irresistible love story.” I don’t know about “irresistible” but it’s an enjoyable contemporary novel.
Tessa B C
The FitzOsbornes in Exile by Michelle Cooper
This is book two in a series about the royal family of the fictitious island nation of Montmaray. It’s a fast read, an easy young adult novel about the beginning of World War II. The British social class of the late 1930s is described well, including the debutante season. I liked this one better than the first in the series. The characters are better developed, and I enjoy reading about strong, resourceful, intelligent young people.
Lori
The Blackhouse by Peter May
I thought this would be a typical mystery, but I was impressed to find a very intense story largely about the background of the detective. The book was well-written and very atmospheric. I enjoyed reading about life in The Outer Hebrides, an area with which I'm not familiar. I hope to get the opportunity to read the rest of the trilogy and more from the author.
Liz
Taming a Savage Gentleman by Tammy Andresen
Tom is a handsome, untitled, and crass seaman. Flora is elegant, titled and beautiful and in need of a husband. Tom is charged with looking out for her on her voyage to Scotland to meet her intended's family. The man she is supposed to marry is crass, broke, in need of a wife and a drunk. Of course opposites attract and temperatures rise. The is a storm at sea, a near ship wreck, a mutiny and a kidnapping. I received this copy in exchange for an honest review.
Jan
The Secrets of My Life by Caitlyn Jenner
The story of Bruce/Caitlyn Jenner is different than the one portrayed in the media. She tells it like it is, leaving nothing out, and no questions unanswered. It's also an eye-opening look into the world of transgender people and what they go through. Why would anyone choose to live this kind of life, where so many people despise you, that you consider suicide? It's because they don't choose this kind of life. It's the way they were born.
Lynn W
Same Beach, Next Year by Dorothea Benton Frank
Same beach, same read, every year...
Francisca E B
Nothing to Do But Stay by Carrie Young
The subtitle is “My Pioneer Mother,” and much of this memoir features Young’s mother Carrine Gafkjen Berg. But this is really the story of a family’s experiences in the early 20th century in North Dakota. Rather than a strictly chronological order, the book is divided into chapters by subject. All are full of wonderful, loving descriptions of life on a settler’s farm, some funny, some touchingly poignant.
Rosemary
Behind Her Eyes by Sarah Pinborough
I finished it but was sorry I did!
Vicki
The Book Thief by Marcus Zusak
This war story and the bravery of people helping one another is worth the time for a second read. I enjoyed it as much as the first time.
Vicki
A Great Reckoning by Louise Penny
Another great read from Louise penny.
Vicki
The Chilbury Ladies' Choir by Jennifer Ryan
War does not defeat the women when there sons and husbands have gone off to war. Music can help all of us get through the tough days of life.
Sandy
Fingersmith by Sarah Waters
Just finished this one today. Very, very interesting tale. Lots of twists and turns and surprises.
Dorothy
Half Broke Horse by Jeannette Walls
Wish I would have read this book before I read THE GLASS CASTLE. I enjoyed both books. They were both very interesting books about the trials of families living in the early 1900s.
Karen Stigers
The Orphan's Tale by Pam Jenoff
Although the last couple of years have seen a lot of books centered around WWII, this book has a different twist. It's about a family-owned circus that hid Jews during this awful time.
LaDonna
Making Masterpiece by Rebecca Eaton
Rebecca Eaton, the producer of Masterpiece Theatre, tells the story of the history of the productions in Masterpiece Theatre. Fans of Masterpiece will enjoy this book.
Kathy
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon
This book was difficult to read because I have a grandson who has autism, but the subject was handled with much care and I actually feel I can understand how my grandson feels after reading this. Descriptions of how this boy perceived new experiences were wonderful. I would recommend this book to anyone.
Jackie
The Little Pink Pill by K. L. Smith
Fascinating psychological thriller that is nail biting to the very end.
Pat
The Stranger in the Woods by Michael Finkel
Bizarre read -- how can any human live 28 years in the Woods in Maine? Incredible read.
Pat
All By Myself, Alone by Mary Higgins Clark
I love her books...always interesting characters.
Pat
Red Clover Inn by Carla Neggers
I read ALL her books -- love the two series she has. Very good read.
Pat
In Order to Live by Yeonmi Park
Sad book to read about human trafficking. Their youth is taken away with horrific things.
Susan
Dark Matter by Blake Crouch
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! The science aspect of it was interesting: quantum mechanics, of which I knew nothing about before reading DARK MATTER. Not to say I fully understand the concept but I picked up a few things. The characters are likable and relatable. Jason, the main character is any everyman sort of person - not a hero or a celebrity. He goes out to see an old school chum, expecting to return home with ice cream later that evening. His life goes off the rails from then on. The choices he makes actually make sense and the one thing driving him is his love for his family, which I think most readers will be able to relate to. So, this book is part sci-fi and part love story.
Jan
White Rage by Carol Anderson
This well-researched book points out that "white rage" (a la Donald Trump) is the result of black peoples' success, despite all the efforts of powerful white people and their old "romantic" version of the South, lovely ladies, dancing at their lovely parties, the men drinking their bourbon and discussing their wealth is based on slavery. After the Civil War, whites could no longer afford their large estates and maintain their wealth because they had to pay black people for their labor. This book details all the illegal efforts of powerful white men to refuse quality education to blacks, to refuse a fair wage to blacks, to even prevent them from leaving the South to go to northern cities to earn a living.
Jan
LaRose by Louise Erdrich
This is one of Erdrich's best. The focus is a little guy, LaRose, who carries a family name from generations back. As usual, Erdrich includes Native American lore and customs in this story of a man who accidentally kills a neighbor's son. According to ancient custom, he must give his own son to the neighbor to replace the dead child. We get greed, misinformation, family squabbles and love, all the stuff of life. One family hurts because they lost their child to a neighbor. The other family suffers because they lost their child and the replacement is not their child. Erdrich is an enrolled member of a Chippewa/Ojibwe tribe and certainly knows the accurate customs and culture. This is a lovely book about families.
Phyllis
The Little French Bistro by Nina George
Nina George infuses her characters and places with magic through lyrical words and the power of love. In THE LITTLE FRENCH BISTRO we follow Marianne who runs away from a life of feeling like she does not matter to her husband to one where she finds herself and delightfully touches the lives of others. I love Nina George’s writing and will look forward to new books by her. She reminds us in her wonderful writing that love’s magic can touch us at all ages. I received a copy of this book through Penguin’s First To Read program.
Allison
His Last Letter by Jeane Westin
Great story about Elizabeth I of England.
Roberta
Damaged by Lisa Scottoline
This novel was more than a typical murder mystery. The author looked at how difficult it is to get proper education and care for children with learning disabilities and special needs. DAMAGED is part of a series, but can stand well on its own. I love the author's Philadelphia setting and the special characters: her parents and the Tonys.
Matt
Mississippi Blood by Greg Iles
I guess that if you have read the first two books in this trilogy you will also read this one. If you have not read the first two you will find it hard to keep up with the many characters from the past. Many of them are dead. Read the first two books first. Iles is a master of suspense. There are long intervals of nerve-pounding tension followed by a few pages of relief. Iles understands the white-black relationships of the South in the 60s and today.
Jennifer
Learning to Be Human Again: Do you remember who you were, before the world told you who you should be? by Matt Landry
While a little wordier than necessary, I loved the thoughts gathered together in this book. I've read them all somewhere else in another book here or there, but so many of them woven together here makes this book a good little primer on digging down deep and finding You. If you are in a rush, the sections are easy to get through and learn from, but if you can take your time and really think about the words and do the exercises then you will get even more from the book. Either way, it wouldn't be a waste of time to read it. I felt like Matt Landry was a chatty friend with great insights that truly wanted to help. Something usually lacking about lecture-y self-help books.
Jennifer
It Ends with Us by Colleen Hoover
If you are ready to use your fiction skills of suspending belief of unbelievable coincidences that drive a storyline and if you can just NOT be judgemental of the characters and just truly "listen" to the stories behind the story and the lessons learned by the characters, then I say if you wanted to understand "why do they stay" of women in abusive relationships, read this. So much of the story might make you roll your eyes, but when the main character finally hits the point of understanding why her mother stayed where she was and how hard it is to tear away it is impossible to not to begin to understand and maybe want to learn more about a difficult topic.
Kathy Patton
The Best of Adam Sharp by Graeme Simsion
ADAM SHARP was very different from THE ROSIE PROJECT and THE ROSIE EFFECT but I enjoyed it very much. Great read for any music lover as Adam recounts much of his life through his music playlist. Great, easy enjoyable read for anyone.
Jennifer
Ink and Bone (The Great Library Book #1) by Rachel Caine
Shortest review possible: I will never have enough of "The Great Library" series. Another world just a leap of the imagination away, great characters, good action/ issues balance, smooth flowing writing that describes perfectly and doesn't get in the way, and what else...books!
Jennifer
Paper and Fire (The Great Library #2) by Rachel Caine
Rachel Caine can't write these fast enough for me. The second installation in The Great Library series just keeps the excellent story moving. You will get to the end before you know it and oh no...#3 isn't out yet!
Wendy Johnson
I Found You by Lisa Jewell
This book has a lot of twists and turns. There is something about it that you can't put it down.
Nadine
Dangerous Games by Danielle Steel
Another well-written book by Danielle Steele. I have loved her writing since her first book. Keep them coming!
Wendy Johnson
Into the Water by Paula Hawkins
I think I enjoyed this even more than THE GIRL ON THE TRAIN. The only drawback is that there were so many characters. Keeping a cheat sheet of them all might have helped.
Betty
The Black Dudley Murder by Margery Allingham
This was written in the 1920s, but it's still entertaining. This introduces Albert Campion to the detective (sort of) world as an adjunct character. Allingham has a sly way in her writing. Sneaky and captivating.
Elizabeth
The Fact of a Body by Alexandria Marzano-Lesnevich
The title THE FACT OF A BODY is based on something the author learned as a first-year law student: (as I understand it and in my words, not hers) we have the fact of a child’s dead body. But where does the explanation, the story, for that dead body begin? Does it begin with that child or should the story begin sooner? How soon? So the author tells the story of both a murder and what led to the murder. That is, we learn of the murderer’s life. Along with that, the author compares this with her own story. It's too much of a stretch, Also, timelines are very mixed up.
Rosemary
The Hope Chest by Viola Shipman
Coming from a generation where girls had cedar chest to fill with their hopes and dreams, this book hit home. I also inherited both my mother's and my aunt's cedar chests filled with family remembrances and treasures, such as the one Mattie has in this book. As she relives some of the happiest times and some of the saddest moments of her long marriage she has a chance to look back on her live and treasure both the good and bad times. It made me go back into mine to do the same, something we should all do occasionally to realize how precious life is.
Kay
Dead Wake by Erik Larson
An interesting look at the events behind the sinking of the Lusitania, this book combines both factual information and human interest stories as it tells the tale of the ill-fated ship.
Diana
Lillian Boxfish Takes a Walk by Kathleen Rooney
Maybe because I am a native New Yorker who knows many of the places Lillian stopped at along her walk, this book was a lovely experience. Lillian is in her 80s on New Year's Eve, 1984 when she decides to walk around Manhattan and revisit places that were meaningful in her life. Through her reminiscing we are able to meet and understand her, and she is someone you would be better for having met.
Lori
The Copenhagen Affair by Amulya Malladi
I was delighted to have the opportunity to read an advance copy of THE COPENHAGEN AFFAIR since Amulya Malladi is one of my favorite authors. I love that each book she writes is unique - no cookie-cutter writing here. Although she has previously written about some of the issues that are in this book, there are completely different circumstances in this one. It is very atmospheric about life in Copenhagen for an elite population of wealthy locals and US expatriates, a far cry from her previous book, THE SOUND OF LANGUAGE, about an Afghan refugee in Denmark. The author did a great job portraying marriages, infidelity, living abroad and depression. I highly recommend this book & think it would be a wonderful selection for book discussion groups
Simonne
The Book of Joy by Dalai Lama and Archbishop Desmond Tutu
Inspirational, but very, very repetitive.
Simonne
Wild by Cheryl Strayed
Terrifically written true account of a very troubled young woman finding herself while hiking the Pacific Coast Trail solo. The author is interesting, funny, and exciting. She shares her thoughts and history in a very open and readable manner.
Donna
Peony in Love by Lisa See
Loved learning more about the Japanese old life style.
Peggy
Mississippi Blood by Greg Iles
Just as fantastic as NACHEZ BURNING and THE BONE TREE. Iles does a great job of portraying the Southern people during the 60s and up to current times. Although it is 667 pages long, it was well worth waiting for.
Noreen Brown
Ghost Boy by Martin Pistorius
This non-fiction book is terrible, awful, and wonderful. It makes you appreciate what you have, and guilty for complaining about nothing.
Jud
Jackdaws by Ken Follett
If you like war novels, then Ken Follett is an author you must try and JACKDAWS is a must-read. Ken Follett is one of those rare authors who makes you feel like you are right there with the characters in the middle of the action. This novel gets 5 stars.
Richard N B
The Quiet American by Graham Greene
This has been cited as the quintessential book about Vietnam, especially the conflict begun with the French war. I don’t know if I would agree, but it’s definitely a good book about what was happening in the country during the mid-1950s. The reader gets some inkling of the politics of the era, but is more consumed by the personal drama of these two men and the Vietnamese woman they both say they love.
Linda
Everything I Never Told You by Celeste Ng
This is a brilliant first novel. Ms. Ng takes you into the lives of a family, captures your interest and never lets go. Her characters are very real and you find yourself thinking about them long after you finish the book. It is a mystery but not a typical one as in whodunit. I could identify with at least the female characters, having been a teenager and mother, but never having had a daughter. I experienced many emotions reading this book such as anger, regret for words never said, sadness and longing. Don't miss this one!
Gail
Lost in Shangri-La by Mitchell Zuckoff
How did I not know about this event? This is a fascinating book about a plane crash in the jungles of Dutch New Guinea at the end of WWII. It is a detailed account of the people involved, their survival and rescue. The survival part was most interesting as it involved the interaction with the inhabitants of this very remote area. It is a true life adventure that interested me to the end.
Nina Morse
I Found You by Lisa Jewell
This is basically a story within a story. The author uses flashbacks and mystery to create an intriguing read. Jewell creates a beautiful landscape and a nice character development. If you enjoy mysteries, this is a vacation read for you!
Lynn W
Leaving Everything Most Loved (Maisie Dobbs #10) by Jacqueline Winspear
This is a remarkable series, but this book was not. Maisie is closing her business to travel to India in her deceased mentor's footsteps, so the murder mystery is not compelling -- just a loose end to tie up.
Lynn W
At the Edge of the Orchard by Tracy Chevalier
Fourteen-year-old Robert Goodenough runs from his Ohio home and apple orchard after a double "accident" kills his parents. He makes his way to California during the Gold Rush and meets William Lobb, a naturalist, who sells seeds and plants from the new world to the gardeners in England. Meticulously researched, this book was a pleasure to read.
Sandy
The Chaperone by Laura Moriarty
I loved every page of this book!!! It tells the life of Cora, starting when she was in an orphanage in New York. It is beautiful and deeply moving.
Linda
Behind Closed Doors by B. A. Paris
Easy read. Rather GONE GIRL-like, as promised. Loved the ending. Somewhat expected but, go Esther!
Linda
Before You Know Kindness by Chris Bohjalian
Good story in the usual Bohjalian way. The start was a little slow for me but worth sticking with to the end. Some of life's hardest lessons teach us the most - or can, if we let them. This is truly a story about family and how we can overcome nearly anything.
Pat
Saints for All Occasions by J. Courtney Sullivan
I have enjoyed her other books, but just didn't really get into this one; almost quit, but did finish it. I just felt it didn't flow well and was disjointed.
Pat
The Broken Road by Richard Paul Evans
Love his books; the Walk series was definitely a fave. This book grabbed me just by his Prologue. Definitely enjoyed the book.
Bonnie
Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman
Totally unique novel and Eleanor is one-of-a-kind. You'll fall in love with her.
Marilyn
In the Garden of Small Beginnings by Abby Waxman
A hilarious account of a young widow's adventures as she takes a gardening class to learn about gardening in Los Angeles; turns out, she learns a lot more than how to garden!
Helen Duncan
Destiny and Power: The American Odyssey of George Herbert Walker Bush by Jon Meacham
Wonderful portrait of the man and his life. It helped me to understand better the political process and how it works. Very interesting. Longish, but very readable.
Helen
Come Sundown by Nora Roberts
Thanks to Bookreporter.com I just finished reading an advance copy of this book, which is being released next week. It's a great story, very much in tune with current happenings, but also about a wonderful family and horses and some of life's second chances. Beautifully written, it could easily be a fine movie. I thoroughly enjoyed the book. I wasn't so sure at the start, which scared me somewhat. Ms. Roberts is so talented when it comes to dreaming up stories and creating characters and dialogue. Easy to see why she's so popular. Thank you!
Jane
The Amish Widower by Virginia Smith
Seth Hostetler lost two wives. One day after a year of grieving, his pregnant sister-in-law and Mom ask him to drive for them. They go to a new shop where Seth meets an Amish potter. He decides to try the wheel and finds he loves the feel of clay and from there decides to take a class. He learns to love making pottery and the feel of the clay. He eventually becomes a part of the shop, working there to sell pieces he makes. He meets Leah, the granddaughter of the owner. She is English even though her grandparents are Amish. A young man named Robbie comes to the Amish community and asks to drive for the Hostetlers. Seth and Robbie soon become friends. Seth has no idea the secret Robbie has. It about destroys him.
Thomas
Peter by Harvey Barrier
The book was good. I thought it was very good.
Thomas
Tiger's Claw by Dale Brown
I enjoyed reading this book very much. It was a very interesting read.
Brady
Incendiary by Michael Cannell
An individual set pipe bombs in NYC during a period of 14 years before he was caught. This is that story and of how they discovered who that person was and how they found him. A very long ordeal indeed and the basis of fine reading for whodunnit. After he was found, another period is described that pits the legal world with the psychiatrist world. Interesting. A good read.
Tessa B C
Old Dogs by Donna Moore
A pair of seventy-something-year-old ex-hookers turned con-artists scheme to steal two antique be-jeweled Tibetan dog statuettes. But they are not alone in wanting those dogs. This is a comic crime caper that reminds me of Donald E. Westlake or Carl Hiaasen. The characters are outrageous, the plot is ridiculous, but the whole package is great fun to read.
Kayla
Ava's Place by Emily Beck Cogburn
The story itself flowed as you might expect a simple love story to go. It finally picked up with a small mystery toward the end. The writing itself left a lot to be desired as it lacked description and used a lot of passive voice.
Sharon
Acqua Alta by Donna Leon
This detective novel features Donna's Leon police chief Guido Brunetti and takes places in Venice
during a flood season which presents problems in the chief's investigation. We have the flavor of the city of Venice and an engaging story which keeps our interest. The characters are well-drawn and deserving of our sympathy. Brunetti is a compassionate and determined professional. The main characters appeared in the first Brunetti novel. Our club enjoyed the novel very much and we are planning to read another of her Brunetti novels next year.
Dorothy Flood
Against All Odds by Danielle Steel
Like all her books, money is no problem. Kate, the widowed mother of four, owns a secondhand clothing store. Everything she has is top quality and does very well. Her oldest daughter, an attorney, falls in love with one of her clients, a no nothing from a very wealthy family who has nothing to do with him and won't give him any money. Another daughter marries a man too good to be true. A son lives with his male lover. This was a good read as are all her books.
Judye
Kick Kennedy by Barbara Leaming
Fascinating and insightful, not only about Kick and her family but the political, religious, and mores of that chaotic time.
Elaine
Thirst by Jo Nesbo
An excellent read once again featuring Harry Hole as a retired detective who returns to service to help solving a case involving shocking murders by a vampirist. Set in Norway with dark themes and dangerous challenges.
Elizabeth
The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath
I had never read this classic novel billed as the feminist CATCHER IN THE RYE so I finally picked it for my book club. Mental illness is of great interest to me as it runs in my family and the tragic short life of Sylvia Plath had always had a sort of morbid fascination for me. I wanted to understand this gifted figure and why she wanted to end her life. The beginning of the book disappointed. It felt like the sophomoric effort it was billed at by early critics. But when the protagonist began to sink into a deep depression, the book got better. I could feel her despair even if I didn't understand it.
Judy O.
Sycamore Road by John Grisham
Is the handwritten will written by Seth Hubbard in the 1980s in Mississippi valid? This is the question that street lawyer Jake Brigance wrestles with in this book that was first published 2013. This handwritten will gives over $20,000,000 to a black housekeeper in the home of the man who hangs himself. But, there is an earlier will written that gives the estate to the estranged family of Hubbard. The fight goes to court and a very entertaining court fight evolves.
Jan
Burning Bright by Nick Petrie
This is the second Peter Ash mystery and I hope they keep coming. Ash is a troubled ex-military person, having seen too much war and killing. For example, he can not sleep inside, even with a woman he really likes. By accident he meets, high in a tree, a woman who is running for her life and she is not even certain why some people are trying to kill her. But they killed her mother first. This is a rollicking good mystery, full of fast action, a lot of killing (but we do not know any of them personally so no harm) and a mystery as to who the good guys are and who the bad ones are. This is a page-turner.
Jennifer
2084: The End of the World by Boualem Sansal
I was torn on choosing a rating. I think if I read the original language instead of a translation maybe it would have been better? A lot of rambling. Some truly insightful ideas and thoughts. Many abrupt shifts. Abrupt ending as well. I stuck it out because I kept thinking "there has to be something great coming up". I never saw that. It won the French Academy Grand Prix in 2016. Meh.
shelly
Against All Odds by Danielle Steel
Kate Madison is an owner of a famous resale shop located in SoHo. Kate worked very hard to get here as she is the mother of four children and was left a widow at a very early age. Her oldest Isabelle, known as Izzy, is a lawyer. Justin is a writer and his twin Julie designs clothes. The youngest Willie is very smart and works with computers. Kate wants what every mother dreams for, her children to marry the right person and be happy. Unfortunately, things do not always turn out as planned. Izzy is doing pro bono work and meets Zach. They could not be more opposite but he is smart, sexy, dresses differently then she is accustomed to, but it seems to have an effect on her.
ILene
The Hope Chest by Viola Shipman
I really loved THE HOPE CHEST. Mattie and Don celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary. Mattie is suffering from ALS and Don has been taking care of her. They are lucky to find Rose as her caretaker and life becomes so much easier. As a bonus, Rose brings her 10-year-old daughter Jeri, so they get the granddaughter they always wanted. Mattie and Don had no family and neither did Rose and Jeri, and together they became one big family. The hope chest was started by Mattie's mother, and over the years items were added that meant a lot to Mattie. They all enjoyed the hope chest and it brought them closer together.
Jill
The Most Dangerous Place on Earth by Lindsey Lee Johnson
Very good read about how a middle school tragedy continues to affect students of privilege attending an elite high school in California. The book follows a few teens in particular as they cope with the aftermath. A new English teacher wades into this maelstrom, not knowing what came before, yet still has to teach these students. The characters are well-drawn to the point we recognize our (in my case, former) high school classmates and re-live the intensity of adolescence.
mary
The Storied Life of A.J. Frikry by Gabrielle Zevin
Loved it. Reread it immediately and gained a lot more insight. Used it in book group this week and they also liked it and led to a great discussion.
Carolyn
The Alice Network by Kate Quinn
This is the story of female espionage agents in the Great War. The author deftly constructs a plot that spotlights two women who meet in the aftermath of WWII. The stories of Eve Gardiner and Charlie St. Clair kept me riveted, page after page. The characters were made so real that I felt like I could reach out and touch them. I could not put this novel down. It is one of the few I have read that I wished would never end...
Lynnette
Three Junes by Julia Glass
I enjoyed the variety of topics discussed in the book, from marriage relationships, to infertility to homosexuality. All the topics were dealt with care and sensitivity.
Beth
A Piece of the World by Christina Baker Kline
In this novel the author of ORPHAN TRAIN gives an in depth look at the life of Christiana, the woman in the painting by Andrew Wyeth titled Christiana's World. The setting is rural Maine and the time frame is during the early career of the painter. A wonderful story that I did not want to end.
Nancy
Behold the Dreamers by Imbolo Mbue
This is the story of Jende Jonga who emigrates from Cameroon. While waiting for his green card, he serves as chauffeur to a Lehman Bros. senior executive, right before the company's collapse, The collapse takes its toll on Jonga's marriage, family lives and ambitions, proving that the American Dream is not all its thought to be.
Pauline
The Lost Girls by Heather Young
THE LOST GIRLS uses alternate voices for alternate chapters, and I usually find when I read a book written that way that I like one voice better than the othe, which is distracting. But in this book I was fully invested and drawn in to each character's narrative, intrigued with the unraveling of the past and present for each one. Ultimately the book asks whether or not one regrets the decisions in life made because of love for another person, which made this reader ponder that question. I will look forward to future books by this author.
Lynn
The Smell of Other People's Houses by Bonnie-Sue Hitchcock
This story intertwines the lives of families and friends of four Alaskan teens in the 1970s. Each chapter is written from the perspective of one of the teens. Life is difficult for most Indians and Eskimos coming from broken/unhappy homes. Not only did they have to deal with harsh economic times, but they also had to deal with family secrets no one wanted to admit. This is a debut author who has an excellent writing style. I look forward to more from her...soon!!
Betty Jo Harris
The Gifts of Imperfection by Brene Brown
This book examines what happens when one uses the vulnerability to live a more empathetic life.
Francisca E B
The Minor Adjustment Beauty Salon by Alexander McCall Smith
I rarely get past book four or five in a mystery series, because they become formulaic for me and I lose interest. But this series is a wonderful exception. As in most of the books, there are two cases the Ladies work on in this 14th installment, but the real focus of the series is on the relationships between the characters. Fans of the series will find most of the characters they have come to love present.
Sandy
The Hummingbird by Stephen P. Kiernan
Loved this book and finished it in two days!! Deborah Birch is a seasoned hospice nurse whose daily work requires courage and compassion. But her skills and experience are tested in new and dramatic ways when her formerly easygoing husband, Michael, returns from his third deployment to Iraq haunted by nightmares, anxiety, and rage. Deborah is determined to help him heal and restore the tender, loving marriage they once had.
Cassandra Early
The River of Kings by Taylor Brown
Great southern reading, blending three times frames: 1564 - French soldiers settling along a river in the South, the present where two brothers are traveling the same river to deposit their father's ashes in the marsh lands near the coast, and in between part of their father's story. Wonderful.
Thomas
The Throat by Peter Straub
I enjoyed reading this book. I really thought it was very good.
Thomas Barrington
Insomnia by Stephen King
I thought this was a very good book. I would recommend this book for anyone to read. It is really good.
Donna
Night Pleasures by Sherrilyn Kenyon
I love her Dark Hunter series! Her characters come to life and are revisited in other books in the series. This is the second time I'm reading through her series.
Thomas
Find Her by Lisa Gardner
I really liked this book. It was an enjoyable book.
Thomas
Detective Cross by James Patterson
It was a good book. It was a fast read with very short chapters.
Vicki
UNSUB by Meg Gardiner
Caitlin Hendrix is called in to help after the Prophet, the serial killer who killed her father's partner and ruined his law enforcement career and his mind, starts killing again after 20 years. The Prophet seems to be connected to Mercury and astrology. He also taunts the police relentlessly and seems to know their every move. Will Caitlin be able to find the Prophet and save the lives of countless people in San Francisco before he pulls his final act, or will he take her down and the ones she loves too? I really enjoyed this book, but a few things were over the top for me. However, it's a solid read and I would recommend it to anyone who likes hardcore thrillers. Not exactly for the squeamish.
Jud
A Fine Summer's Day: A Inspector Ian Rutledge Mystery by Charles Todd
A FINE SUMMER'S DAY by Charles Todd gives the reader a look back at Ian Rutledge’s life just prior to WWI. Todd has done a good job of creating a character that the reader can relate to in how he attempts to balance his home and work life under the cloud of war. There is no shortage of authors who choose the early 19th century as the backdrop for their detective novels. That said, Todd deserves recognition as being in the top tier of this sub-genre. This novel gets a well-deserved 4 out of 5 stars.
Lynn W
Pachinko by Min Jin Lee
PACHINKO follows one Korean family through four generations starting in the early 1900s. Sunja (second generation) becomes pregnant by a married man, agrees to marry a minister, and moves to Japan to start a new life. In spite of many harsh adversities and deep questions of faith and identity, the family endures and succeeds. Long book, sometimes painful to read, but well worth the effort.
