This contest period's winners were Evelyn P., Nancy B. and Susan D., who each received a copy of A COLUMN OF FIRE by Ken Follett and THE VENGEANCE OF MOTHERS by Jim Fergus.
Claudia
Killers of the Flower Moon by David Grann
Most people don't know about the Osage Indians that were murdered in Oklahoma in the 1920s. This book not only backs up to when the Indians were forced to live in Oklahoma and the rich oil fields that made them rich but the history of the area. No one was able to convict anyone of the murders because of the mastermind behind them until the newly founded FBI sent agents there. This book is easy to read even though it is non-fiction. Again, a part of history not told until now.
S
Notes on a Banana by David Leite
Our book club read for October.
Paula
Born a Crime by Trevor Noah
I'm hoping that there is a follow-up to this book. Trevor Noah's childhood, similar to J.D. Vance's, leaves the reader overwhelmed with what these two men were able to achieve considering their early lives. Noah's book tells of his childhood, but does not explain how he became the host of The Daily Show.
Izella
The Promise by Ann Weisgarber
Loved this book! It would have been even better if I had read it after the recent hurricane that took place in Texas. The book kept me in suspense and I thought the love story was beautiful but very sad.
Beth
The Best American Short Stories of 2012 by Heidi Pitlor and Tom Perrotta, editors
Most of the stories were well-written and enjoyable.
Kay
The Nature of the Beast by Louise Penny
Another interesting thriller from Louise Penny. We do love Gamache!
Ruth
A Fierce Radiance by Lauren Belfer
Outstanding historical fiction.
Donna
Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett
Getting ready for Book 3. Everything I love in a novel. Love. Loyalty. Hope. Toss in some murder treachery, tension and suspense.
Susan
To Be Where You Are by Jan Karon
It's so good to be home in Mitford with Father Tim and Cynthia. This book centers mostly around their adopted son, Dooley, his wife, Lace, and their newly adopted son, Jack. They have been married five months and opened a new vet business and are adapting to their new lives as parents. They have so much going on but so does Father Tim. He steps in to run a grocery story and helps two of Dooley's siblings. Such a lovely town with such wonderful characters. Mitford seems real to me and I would love to spend time with a man as wonderful as Father Tim who came to love late in life and is so grateful for all his blessings. This is the ultimate comfort novel best read while eating ice cream.
Heather
Elizabeth Street by Laurie Fabiano
Historical fiction based on the story of the author's family immigrating from Italy to New York in the early 1900s. The beginning of the book is slow and initially would have rated it a 2-star read. But stick with it! The story becomes captivating!
Marcia
Shanghai Girls by Lisa See
I enjoyed this story of two sisters surviving the takeover of China by the Japanese. They come to America to join their husbands through arranged marriages. They share a great secret. The story is engaging and the characters well-written. I was a bit disappointed in the ending because it left me hanging.
Brenda
The Dry by Jane Harper
Compelling mystery that you really can't guess until close to the end. Setting in Australia during a drought -- out in the country. You can absolutely feel the heat and the dryness and the desperation of the people who depend on the weather for their livelihood -- farmers and sheep ranchers. Aaron Falk is a wonderful character -- intelligent and sensitive, yet aloof and so shaped by his past -- the past that took place in the town he returns to after finding out about the death of his childhood friend. Long buried mysteries resurface, as do the lies that accompany them. Excellent literate writing. Characters were well developed and realistic. Title of the book is perfect.
Ann
The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck by Mark Manson
Interesting view on how we can live our flawed lives and succeed anyway. I read it when I was down and interestingly enough I didn't get more depressed. I actually enjoyed it and am ready to read it again.
Kathy
The Lowland by Jhumpa Lahiri
Brothers growing up in India choose different paths and one brother's choice affects the other brothers entire life. A picture of life in India culture and politics from the 1940s through to the twenty-first century.
Dorothy
Dark Chapter by Winnie M. Li
I recently read DARK CHAPTER by Winnie M. Li and found it to be a very important read. The fictional novel is based on a true-life experience of the author. I don't recall ever reading a book that told the story with the perspective of both victim and perpetrator. The writing is excellent and in my opinion this is a book every woman should read. We are all naive at times and believe an incident such as this could never happen to us. It is truly a life-changing event.
Wendy
A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman
Great.
Nancy
Almost Missed You by Jessica Strawser
This is a story of love, betrayal and second chances. Violet believes she has the perfect life with her husband Finn and son Bear until, on vacation, Finn leaves her stranded, taking Bear with him. The book is told from three perspectives -- Violet, Finn and Caitlin, who Finn blackmails into hiding him and Bear. The book explores not only a mother's love for her son, but what happens when you are living a lie whose secrets bury you deeper and deeper until there's no way out.
Jeffrey
Dark Money by Jane Mayer
Great investigative journalism. Gives a blow-by-blow history of how what began as the right-wing lunatic fringe ended up controlling the levers of power in the most powerful country in the world. Scary stuff, and it's all true.
Dale
The Boston Girl by Anita Diamant
Love how this book is written, grandmother telling her granddaughter about her life.
Donna
Deadfall by Linda Fairstein
Love Linda's writing. Have read all her books. Also with solving a mystery there are interesting facts about New York. This time it's about the Bronx Zoo. A page-turner for sure. Alex Cooper is accused of causing a murder and she must find the one(s) who actually did the deed.
Ellyn
Up at Butternut Lake by Mary McNear
I like the small town story where everyone knows everyone and touches on several different stories of their troubles and bonding to help. There are three or four other "Butternut" titles that I plan to read also. Reminds me of Karon's Mitford series and Letts' WHERE THE HEART IS.
Nancy
Breakfast with Buddha by Roland Merullo
This is a humorous, thought-provoking trip across America. I can't wait to read his other books.
Karen
The Color of Fear by Marcia Muller
Her stories always catch you up and continues on with the same great characters.
Matt
Sulfur Springs by William Kent Krueger
If you have read Krueger before you probably know of his descriptions of the woods and lakes of the Northern U. S. This book shifts to Arizona but the descriptions of place are still right-on. I have been in Arizona during a summer thunderstorm and Krueger's description is perfect. One of my favorite writers!
Matt
A Killing in the Hills by Julia Keller
Upon reading a review of Keller's latest book and learning it takes place in West Virginia, I decided to read her first novel instead. It's an interesting read, a bit slow in places and over sells the bad aspects of life in rural WV. I will probably read her second book.
Donna
Paradise Valley by C. J. Box
I have enjoyed this "Lizard King" trilogy about a long distance truck driver killing prostitutes at various truck stops. The first book in the series, THE HIGHWAY, was the best with the most suspense, but all three have been pleasant reads.
Gail
Secret Daughter by Shilpi Somaya Gowda
We will be discussing this in my book club. It should be an interesting discussion about adopting children from different cultures and their interest in finding out about their culture.
Susan
Secrets in Summer by Nancy Thayer
I really enjoy her books because I live on Cape and it is always fun to recognize the locations in her books. It was a good beach read for the end of summer.
Annette
The Daughter of Time by Josephine Tey
Great historically-based mystery.
shelly
Winter Wishes by Fern Michaels
WINTER WISHES is four short stories by different authors. Fern Michaels, Susan Fox, Jules Bennett and Leah Marie Brown. Meredith has decided to leave Las Vegas and has chosen Nashville, Kansas as the place she wants to start her new life. She found a home over the internet and is meeting the owner today. When she arrives Noah is waiting for her and takes her inside to see the house which had belonged to his grandmother. Meredith decides to buy the house, but it seems like she and Noah have more of a connection than either of them expected. Will they find that the magic of the holiday will bring new meaning to the relationship?
Betty
Career of Evil by Robert Galbraith
This is the third novel in the Cormoran Strike series. I can't wait for the fourth!
Pat
Thief's Mark by Carla Neggers
I adore her books, especially her Sharpe & Donovan series. The descriptions of Ireland's countryside always lifts my spirits.
Dorothy
Hissing Cousins by Marc Peyser and Timothy Dwyer
The authors bring to life the story of Eleanor Roosevelt and Alice Roosevelt Longworth and their influence on politics and what brought them to drift apart.
Tessa B C
Fates and Furies by Lauren Groff
The book is told by the two central characters: Lotto (Fates) and Mathilde (Furies). Groff is masterful building these characters, with qualities that draw the reader into their circle. One revelation breaks the bond, forcing first Lotto, and then Mathilde to examine their relationship. By the end I’m left feeling battered and bruised and stunned. I want to start reading it again from the beginning so I can pick up any clues Groff may have buried.
Helen
The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead
I was disappointed. The writing was beautiful and touching but the plot didn't engage me and I thought some of the details were unlikely.
Karen
The Stars are Fire by Anita Shreve
The novel shows a weak women who becomes strong after escaping the shadow of a domineering husband. This is a theme I have seen in other Shreve novels.
Gina
Mrs. Fletcher by Tom Perrotta
This book totally surprised me. I was expecting a light fluffy read and instead I was thinking about so many social issues! As a woman in almost the same situation as Eve Fletcher, I appreciated how she handled many situations (but can't say I would do everything the same way she did!), and I plan on recommending it to all of my almost menopausal empty nest friends!
Patti
A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman
An old man set in his ways. New neighbors moving in next store. Learns how good life can be letting other people into his life. A very good read!
Sheryl
March of Crime by Jess Lourey
I've read several of Ms. Lourey's, Murder by the Month series and they keep getting better. Mira Ross is a single 3thirty-year-old woman who is trying to keep herself afloat financially by working as the town's librarian; the library is about to go under. She is also writing columns for the local newspaper, as well working for an attorney in town to get her enough hours to get her P.I. license. Her best friend is an elderly lady, Ms. Berns, who is full of snappy one-liners. I was always in for a surprise with this book. I can't begin to describe all the fun that this little duo got up too, from phone sex to trying to solve a mysterious murder. If you like to laugh as much I do, this is one that you shouldn't pass up.
Raylene
Beneath a Scarlet Sky by Mark Sullivan
Fantastic read! Well written, thoughtful, loved Pino.
Sandi
Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate
Based on the Tennessee Children's Home Society, that ran from the 1920s to 1950, this novel was the epitome of that horrific time period. Children literally stolen from their families, in a multitude of ways, are offered for adoption to the wealthy and famous. Georgia Tann - proprietress and known as "The Mother of Adoption", lied, cheated, stole and severely abused the children in her care. Great historical novel, well researched, sadly parallels the real life devastation of the children who knew this Home on a very close and personal level. For it to have taken until 1950 for this house of horrors to finally be shut down only shows what a master of deception Georgia Tann had been. We can only hope that our lesson was learned.
Angie
In the Dark Places by Peter Robinson
Great story. A little too wordy because of sooo much police questioning. Easily read as a stand-alone novel.
Judy O.
Lie to Me by J. T. Ellison
Ellison is really a master at plot twists. There were several of them, right up to the end, and this made for an exciting book. I really hadn't figured any of them out until they were revealed in the story. At times I found myself paging backwards because there were lots of details to keep track of as I read along, and I had to refresh my mind and keep it sharp so I didn't miss a thing.
Julie
Beneath a Scarlet Sky by Mark Sullivan
One of the best books I've read in a long time! It is the beginning of World War II and Young Pino Lella is 17 and leads the Jews out of Northern Italy away from the occupying Nazis into Switzerland. That's just the beginning of the adventures in his long and unbelievable life. He is still alive today! I highly recommend this great read.
Michelle
Hillbilly Elegy by J. D. Vance
An interesting read about what it's like growing up as a self-proclaimed hillbilly and child of a drug-addicted mother. He's one of very few to come out on the other side as a survivor with a better life.
Margaret
In the Midst of Winter by Isabel Allende
Ms. Allende seems to pick interesting concepts and her new novel is sad, scary, and timely. It's about 3 immigrants, one each from Brazil, Chile & Guatemala. They come together in Brooklyn after an auto accident & we find out their backstories. Some of it is hard to read: gang warfare, poverty, murder, rape, disappearing people, & other atrocities. They are gainfully employed, 2 in academia & 1 as a nanny. They have their own problems but manage to become friends over several cold, snowy days while trying to find a way out of a difficult situation.There's suspense when their plans seem to go astray. There are engaging minor characters but the 3 protagonists carry the novel. There's also a tender love story. I was pleased with the ending.
Gail
The Woman in Cabin 10 by Ruth Ware
I really enjoyed this book and I was kept guessing as to how it would turn out. There were lots of possibilities as to who had killed the woman and also who she was. I will read other books by this author after enjoying this one so much.
Linda
Einstein: His Life and Universe by Walter Isaacson
This is probably better than a 3-star book, but it turns out it was an abridgement. I do not willingly read abridged books. If the author took the time to write the book, and it is of interest to me, I want to read Every. Single. Word. There was more science explained in the book than I expected. I know that sounds like a duh!, but Einstein, himself, had ways to explain concepts in easy to understand language. The abridging resulted in a seemingly short 76 years of Einstein's life.
Karina
Forks, Knives and Spoons by Leah DeCesare
This book brought back lots of memories from my college years in the 80s. I loved following Amy and Veronica during their college days analyzing the men that crossed their paths using the advice that Amy's father gave her before entering college. He told her that men we like forks (cocky and will tell you they care but then go and play the field), knives (the nice guys, the middle of the road kind of guys) and then there are the spoons (those are the nerds and the geeks wimpy and boring). Amy shared this classification advice with all her friends so everyone was categorizing the men in their school. It was very hard to put down. I highly recommend this book.
Richard N B
Trophy Hunt by C. J. BOX
I like this series, mostly because I really like Joe Picket. Box gives us plenty of action, but I was dissatisfied with the ending. All the talk of “aliens,” and a too-convenient demise made me feel as if Box had run out of ideas and turned to 1950s sci-fi films for inspiration. Still, it’s a good story and a fast read.
ILene
One Murder More by Kris Calvin
Maren Kane is a lobbyist who tries to push legislation through the California legislature. A senate aide is murdered and Maren's close associate and friend Sean is the prime suspect. Maren works hard to find out what really happened, and she uncovers a plot involving the governor, competing forces opposed to the proposed legislation, corruption and bribery. The ending was a surprise. I liked the book and highly recommend it.
Eileen
The Chaperone by Laura Moriarity
This is a wonderful story. I especially enjoyed the connection to the "Orphan Train". Cora is an endearing character and I can feel her feelings as she tells her story.
Lori
Ordinary Grace by William Kent Krueger
Not quite what I was expecting and ending was somewhat predictable, but a good read with mostly well-developed characters.
Deanna
Sisi by Allison Pataki
Very enjoyable. Hard to imagine her life of riches and still unhappy. Didn't think she had much backbone. Only thought of herself.
Shelley
Be A Unicorn & Live Life on the Bright Side by Sarah Ford
BE A UNICORN AND LIVE LIFE ON THE BRIGHT SIDE by Sarah Ford begins with notes and description of how unicorns feel and act. Unicorn's 10 Rules for a Good Life hold up as sage advice. The majority of the book are uniquely beautiful illustrations paired with a one sentence nugget of unicorn wisdom. I LOVE the pictures of the smiling unicorn who is happy wen skipping and trotting. This book is funny and uplifting. BE A UNICORN is the perfect gift book and I can't wait to buy this for friends!
ILene
I Like You Just Fine When You're Not Around by Ann Garvin
What a great book! Tig Monahan, a therapist, has one therapy session that really goes bad. The patient has problems with her mother's dementia getting worse, her boyfriend taking off for Hawaii, and her sister leaving her with a newborn baby. WHAT ELSE COULD GO WRONG? If you think you have problems, see how she handles everything.
Sandi
Alone by Christophe Chabouté
The story tells of a man - a hermit, that no one has ever seen - who lives in a lighthouse way out to sea, on just an outcropping of rock. He was born in that lighthouse. Now 50 years later he has been the sole inhabitant for the last 15 years, since losing his parents. He gets supplies delivered weekly. However he hides while that boat is there. Once that boat takes on an ex-convict as crew, things begin to change. What a great book. This is 368 pages of very few words and a story well told in pictures. The pictures speak to you and you feel this mans isolation and his fears. This is a graphic novel - a novel that a lot of work went into. It is all in black and white. It has very few words, but still it tells a sad, sad story.
Shirley
The Mandibles: 2029-2047 by Lionel Shriver
The descriptions of this unusual novel say it is about relationships but I find it to be a novel about economics, one that quickly paints an epic failure of monetary and social programs of liberals. As angry as this made me, I do think it is worthwhile to see my beliefs challenged. And, my interpretation only, it may be a massive critique of the baby boomers. It is certainly a novel novel.
Annmarie
The Marriage Pact by Michelle Richmond
A page-turner from the first page. Carried this book with me everywhere because I had to know what came next!
Tonni
Love and Other Consolation Prizes by Jamie Ford
Jamie Ford knocked it out of the park once again! I absolutely loved HOTEL ON THE CORNER OF BITTER AND SWEET and really enjoyed SONGS OF WILLOW FROST. I knew I was in for a treat with LOVE AND OTHER CONSOLATION PRIZES, but it surpassed my highest expectations. His use of multi-generational stories adds a depth to his characters that draws you in. Are there any words of praise that have not been used a hundredfold already to describe Jamie Ford's books? Sorrowful and sentimental, you find yourself immersed in Seattle in 1909 alongside Ernest as his story unfolds, at 12 year old and then also 50 years later. The length the author goes to researching his novels is impressive. Truly appreciate learning a bit of history while being entertained.
Nancy
The Salt Line by Holly Goddard Jones
A riveting read, original and vivid, with great characters. This may be dystopian fiction but it touches on many contemporary issues, too.
Lucia
In the Shadow of Alabama by Judy Reene Singer
A wonderful read about the daughter of a difficult, distant father whose life she only begins to understand in earnest after a stranger comes to his funeral and gives her a gift.
Loralee
Lilac Girls by Martha Hall Kelly
The historical roots of this novel are fascinating how these three women's lives connect. Periodically, towards the end of the book, the story seemed unbelievable and a stretch for the reader. WWII books are difficult to read; however, this novel brings both darkness and light.
Lois
The Memory of Running by Ron McLarty
Generally easy reading, with good descriptions. One can almost feel the emotions of the main character.
Kathy
The Lowland by Jhumpa Lahiri
Brothers born in India take different directions in their lives, and one brother's decision affects the other for the rest of his life. I found this to be a very sad novel.
Karen
Mississippi Blood by Greg Iles
A great follow up to his NACHEZ BURNING trilogy.
Marion
The Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles
One of the most well written books of the year. The author did depicted an original story with many surprises. A Russian noble is imprisoned for 30 years in a Moscow hotel. You get the feeling that you are with him, with his friends, neighbors and children. There is also a mysterious twist!!
Diane
Deadfall by Linda Fairstein
My first read of this author, but it will not be my last. Her storyline is believable, and the characters are interesting. I recommend this to others every chance I get.
Bobbie
Beartown by Fredrik Backman
I have read all of Fredrick Backman's books. I loved A MAN CALLED OVE and liked the others. His latest book, BEARTOWN, although a much different genre, is right up there with Ove. It had wonderful character development and a compelling story about the people that live in this lonely, cold, hockey-crazy town. It starts off by telling you that at the end of March, a teenager picked up a double barreled shotgun, walked into the forest, put the gun to someone else's forehead and pulled the trigger. This is the story of how we got there. There are so many possibilities of who the teenagers are that it gets to be a real page-turner to discover who shot who.
Shirley
Everything I Never Told You by Celeste Ng
I really did not like this much praised book. It was well written and thoughtful but overall this depiction of dysfunctional family life was so continually dark and depressing that I could not find it rewarding in any way. I gave it 3 stars only because it was so well done.
Cheryl
The Faded Photo by Sarah Price
I loved the way the story was told. I even got angry at times for the fact that the main character Francis didn't tell her family she had cancer to avoid inconveniencing their lives. Overall, a great read!!
Debbie
Lies She Told by Cate Holahan
Wow! This was certainly a different kind of story. There are two main characters, Liza, who is writing a book and Beth, who is the character in Liza's book. The suspense was certainly there and I pretty much sped right through, although, I did have trouble at times recognizing whether it was Liza or Beth speaking. I think that putting the name at the start of the chapter would help a lot to end the confusion. I found myself going along and then bogged down a few times trying to figure it out. Suspenseful and jaw dropping! Thanks to Crooked Lane Books and Net Galley for providing me with a free e-galley in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
Marilyn
A Town Like Alice by Nevil Shute
One of the best things about this book is that it was based on a little known event during WWII in Malaysia during which a group of women was force marched by the Japanese. The leadership of one woman in particular and the fortitude of the others resulted in their not being beaten by their captors.
Liz
After Dark by Phillip Margolin
A law clerk is found murdered, then the Supreme Court judge she worked for is also murdered. Not many clues or suspects, except the judge's wife. The wife hires a high profile attorney to represent her, but it takes his assistant to discover who the real culprit is. There are way too many characters in this story and much too much technical detail. I found it very easy to put this book down and not hurry to pick it back up.
Thomas
The Late Show by Michael Connelly
Very good book. I really enjoyed reading it.
Dorothy
The Right Time by Danielle Steel
Alexandria as a young girl loved to read mysteries with her father. When her father died she lived with a group of nuns. She always loved to write murder mysteries and continued to do so. Her father told her a man would never read a mystery written by a woman. She sent short stories into magazines encouraged by the nuns. She used a pseudonym Alexander Green. Soon she was writing books that were all bestsellers. She kept it a secret and never told anyone except her publisher that she was Alexander Green. A real good story.
Kathy
The Address by Fiona Davis
I loved reading about The Dakota and its first inhabitants, the history of the building, and the current state of affairs going on throughout the book. Very interesting and entertaining story.
Bonnie
Replay by Ken Grimwood
Think "Groundhog Day" as a novel, only not a comedy.
Debbie
The Dark Net by Benjamin Percy
First thought when I finished early, early this morning - WOW! I had such a hard time deciding on reading this book. I loved Benjamin Percy's book RED MOON and was so excited to see this one offered by him. However, I was concerned with there being a lot of "geek speak". Well, there was some, but not a lot. I do remember one time when my eyes were crossing but that feeling did not last long. There was a lot of "freak speak", which I was used to in the author's other book.
Francisca E B
22 Britannia Road by Amanda Hodgkinson
Hodgkinson’s debut novel is a beautifully told story of how a family torn apart by war slowly comes back together. Hodgkinson divides her chapters by location/time and by character, telling parallel stories: Poland during the war, England after the war. I was engaged and interested in the story from beginning to end.
Elizabeth
Annie's Ghosts by Steve Luxenberg
This is a detective story, and it’s a mystery, and it’s true. Steve Luxenberg, a journalist, investigates the life of the aunt he never knew or knew of and the secret his mother kept to her dying day. Very interesting and mesmerizing.
Karen
The Diplomat's Daughter by Karin Tanabe
What a great book. One of the best books I've read this year. It's about the time following the 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor. Emi Kato is the daughter of a Japanese diplomat who is imprisoned in a internment camp with her mother. While in the camp she meets a handsome, young, German-born man, Christian Lange. Emi and her mother are sent back to Japan, while Christian enlists in the Army. Historical fiction fans will enjoy this book.
Deborah
Born a Crime by Trevor Noah
This memoir was enlightening for our group as none of us truly understood what it was like to live under apartheid in South Africa. Each chapter starts with an interesting description of some aspect of the culture which he then illustrates with an episode from his life. From his badass mom who loved him fiercely and was determined for him to succeed, to his mean stepfather who had no use for him, to his "boys in the hood" who lived on the edge, Trevor has had a very different life. Our book club talked about this book at length, not for the strength of the writing but for his understanding of human nature. For such a young man, he has had quite a ride.
Tara
The Martian by Andy Weir
Great book. Funny, engaging and science was so interesting even if you aren't a space geek.
Mary
Same Kind of Different as Me by Ron Hall and Denver Moore
This book kept me reading, crying and thinking! Such faith!
Heather
The Japanese Lover by Isabel Allende
Though I initially loved this book, the last third was really a disappointment.
Brady
American Fire by Monica Hesse
This is a true story about arson and a community beset with over 75 local fires and no particular person to blame it on. Volunteer fire departments were kept so busy the members were eternally tired and depleted because of the high numbers. Most were in old, vacant buildings where no one was injured, but the trepidation in the community was widespread. The parties guilty were well known and respected, and reading about the events unfolding was a page-turner til the end.
Marilyn
Death Stalks Door County by Patricia Skalka
There was so much murder, drinking, smoking and foul language that I gagged! The author tried to make the book worthwhile by describing the charm of Door County, but I have to say I really tired of all the book! I am NOT a prude, but give me a break! Of course, many people would be appalled to think that a developer would strive to destroy the beauty of the peninsula for the sake of the wealthy, but the story could have been told in a kinder way.
Linda
An Evil Mind by Chris Carter
The evil mind belongs to Lucien Folter, a brilliant but psychopathic killer. He reminds me of Hannibel Lector and his sadistic mind, brilliant but totally evil. Lucien’s protagonist is his former college roommate Robert Hunter, now a famous detective with the Los Angeles Police Department. At age 23, Hunter wrote a dissertation on the psychological study of criminal conduct that impressed the FBI director so much, it became mandatory reading for FBI recruits. When Hunter was brought in to interview Folter, he felt sorry for him at first as he believed his story of being a dupe. But that soon changed when he found that the man who had been his roommate was a man he never really knew. This man is pure evil and kills without any remorse.
Linda
Filthy Rich by Virna DePaul
Leaving the party on the main floor of the mansion, Cara Michal heads to a quieter spot on the next level. There she meets and kisses a sexy man she is drawn to, only to find out the next day that he is her new boss Branden Duke. She knows he’s a player and, if she falls for him, she will be the one getting hurt. He has never felt for any woman what he feels for Cara and is unsure how to react. Now someone is taking photos of Cara and Branden and doctoring them to make them look suggestive when they were not. The SEC is investigating the firm for irregularities and a suspicious email is found coming from Cara’s account. She didn’t send it so who is doing this and why? Is Cara being targeted or is it Branden?
Karen
Mississippi Blood by Greg Iles
A great final book of Iles trilogy!
Linda
A Wedding in Maine by Jen McLaughlin
Jeremy Holland asks Chelsea O’Kane to marry him and gives her the engagement ring that used to be her mother’s. They are trying to make a go of the inn which they have renovated and Chelsea has an idea of using it for weddings. She and Jeremy would have their wedding there and would showcase all of the inn’s possibilities. Shortly before the wedding, the engagement ring disappears with no one knowing what happened to it. The epilogue indicates a wealthy man has the ring along with a journal that Chelsea’s father retrieved for a local crime family. This man is supposedly Chelsea’s unknown brother. This was one of James Patterson's Bookshots.
Linda
Red Clover Inn by Carla Neggers
A sarcastic federal agent meets a serious marine archaeologist at a wedding. Although they are worlds apart, they sense an immediate attraction to each other. They both end up at the Red Clover Inn in Knights Bridge, Massachusetts. Both agreed to housesit for the honeymooning owners without the other knowing what had happened. They are surprised to find the other there but think they can get along. The beginning attraction blossoms into something deeper as they find love and contentment in their country surroundings.
Linda
Dark Secret by Christine Feehan
Colby Jansen is determined that the Chevez family will not take her brother and sister back to the family compound in Brazil. Armando Chevez left the ranch to his children and she is determined to see that his wishes are carried out. Juan and Julio Chevez have brought Rafael De La Cruz with them. He is an ancient Carpathian on the verge of turning into a vampire when he notices colors and feelings and recognizes that Colby is his lifemate. She is stubborn and independent and has no intention of being anyone’s lifemate. Rafael has his hands full in getting Colby to see things his way.
Linda
Dark Possession by Christine Feehan
MaryAnn Delaney came to the Carpathian Mountains to help a young girl who had been kidnapped and raped. Now she finds herself grieving over the casket of Manolito De La Cruz. She was attracted to the handsome man and has had fantastic dreams about him but does not know him and can’t understand why she is so upset. She is told Manolito is not dead but she saw him being killed and the poisoned knife going into his body. The plane lands and she finds herself deposited at a mansion in the rain forest while Manolito is taken to recuperate in the rich soil of the forest. Besides the crying, she is unable to eat and notices a strange mark on her breast which she thought was a bug bite but now realizes was a bite from Manolito. Dark Series #18.
Jeffrey
Mansfield Park by Jane Austen
When we decided to visit Bali this summer, I knew I'd bring Jane Austen with me. And MANSFIELD PARK was the only Austen I hadn't read. It turned out to be the perfect choice. In the villa in the rainforest and the idyll on the beach, I had the total tranquility I needed to really burrow into this least mentioned of Ms. Austen's works. I reveled in this constantly surprising deeply moving story of a female protagonist who moves from a girl with zero self-confidence to a strong woman not only able to make smart mature decisions for herself, but also to inspire others to do the same.
Dottie
The Lighthouse Keeper by Cynthia Ellingsen
A great read, love story, adventure, mystery and thriller. A rundown lighthouse on Lake Michigan has been bought by the daughter of treasure hunters, planning to restore it and hopefully also restore her family's name. A true page-turner.
Linda
Dark Curse by Christine Feehan
As a child, Lara Calladine was kept locked in an ice cave and tortured by her father Razvan and great-grandfather Xavier as they feasted on her blood. Xavier was a powerful wizard who had turned insane in his quest for immortality. She escaped from the cave of horrors and swore she would never go there again. Lara became a well-respected explorer of ice caves in her professional life. She has returned to the Carpathian Mountains to find the ice cave she escaped from and finds her lifemate in the form of Nicolas De La Cruz, a Carpathian warrior. He is determined she not put herself in danger but she is determined to return to the cave and free her aunts who had been cast into dragons and frozen into the cave's ice walls by Xavier.
Linda
Dark Slayer by Christine Feehan
Everyone thought Ivory Malinov had been killed by Draven Dubrinsky but her body was never found. Draven had given her to the evil wizard Xavier and he had her body cut up in many pieces and left for the wolves. The wolves took her body’s pieces to the rejuvenating earth where she stayed for many centuries healing. Now she is back and vows to kill Xavier. She finds the body of Razvan Dragonseeker in the snow. He had been chained to the wall of Xavier’s cave and tortured almost beyond endurance. He is ready to die and get away from the horrors of his life. Ivory nurses him back to health and together they will take on Xavier. He has caused enough suffering in the Carpathian world in his quest for immortality and he needs to be destroyed.
Linda
The Forbidden by Jodi Ellen Malpas
She felt a strong attraction to him the first time she looked into his gray eyes. Annie had given everything to her job and at 29, was a well-known architect. But she had no man in her life until she met Jack Joseph. They had one night of explosive sex and she left the next morning before he awoke. When she got to her house, she realized she didn’t know his last name or anything about him. She learned that he was the contractor on the job she was designing and he was married. Jack had left his wife before and told Annie he would ask for a divorce. She knew it was wrong to date a married man but neither can stop thinking of the other.
Donna
Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate
Beautifully told story of 12-year-old Rill and her siblings at the Tennessee Children's home. It's a heartbreaking story but I couldn't put the book down. Avery's present day story was interesting as well. I read this book in two days.
Linda
The Medical Examiner by James Patterson with Maxine Paetro
As Medical Examiner Claire Washburn is performing an autopsy, she hears a moan and then a cough from one of the drawers where bodies are kept. Opening the drawer, she finds that a woman is alive and does not know how she got shot but does know who she is. Rich Conklin is the detective sent to investigate. The woman was found in a hotel room with the body of a man sprawled across her. He had been shot three times but the woman tells Rich she does not know the man. After reading this short story, you ask yourself—what was the point of it? Are the writers just trying to fill up empty pages? If so, paper was wasted. This Bookshot is certainly not a good representation of the writing ability of either author.
Linda
Good Dukes Wear Black by Manda Collins
When her friend and fellow writer for a newspaper is taken away in manacles, Ophelia Dauntry knows one man she can trust to help and goes to the home of Piers Hamilton, Duke of Trent. Ophelia’s best friends are married to Trent’s friends and she knows him to be strong and trustworthy. Working with Ophelia to find clues to her friend’s disappearance, Trent falls in love with the opinionated woman and wants her for his wife. Her mother has other ideas but Ophelia has fallen for Trent and no one else will do. Trent rescues her from the villains who took her friend and from a loveless marriage her mother wanted to force her into. Their friendship develops into love.
Cindy
The Heart's Invisible Furies by John Boyne
One of the best books ever. A saga for the ages.
Donna
Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett
A story of intrigue and power. Revenge and betrayal. A great epic tale. A true novel to get lost in.
Mary
Small Great Things by Jodi Picoult
It kept me in suspense to know how Ruth and Kennedy would connect.
Emily
Blackwing by Ed McDonald
BLACKWING by Ed McDonald is the first book of the Raven's Mark series, set in a post-apocalyptic, fantastical world in an ultimate fight between good and evil. With many characters and a huge world-building, you will get entangled with the main characters, Ryhalt Galharrow and Ezabeth Tanza, and their quest to figure out a machine that will save their land and people from the Deep Kings and their followers. This adventure is filled with magical elements, mutated beings and lots of killing and fighting, which keeps you turning the pages until the end. Definitely recommend for adult fantasy readers and will pick up the next in the series.
Diana
The Address by Fiona Davis
I grew up in Manhattan and my sister still lives near The Dakota apartment building so this book was fascinating to me. I don't usually like the back and forth chapters of different eras but this technique made sense for this book of historical fiction. The chapters about the past were more thought out than the ones in the 1980s.
Deb
Broken Harbor (Dublin Murder Squad #4) by Tana French
Loved how Tana French presented so many "could be him..." or "could be her..." and "maybe this is how..." and "maybe that is why...", leading you to possibilities - except for who really did it and why - which you never see coming!
Susan
The Life She Was Given by Ellen Marie Wiseman
Haunting. Loved it as I do all her books.
Evelyn
The Lake and the Lost Girl by Jacquelyn Vincenta
Good read, well written. Two stories that are separated by years yet connected by a thread. A missing woman and another woman searching for the answer of what happened to her.
Cindy
The Chalk Artist by Allegra Goodman
This book captured me from page one! It is fantastical, addictive in a ironic twist on its topic, and oh so real! Allegra Goodman is a beautiful writer.
Linda
Glass Houses by Louise Penny
Not as 'dark' as her last book. As always, nice to catch up with Three Pines!
Marcia
Dreams of Joy by Lisa See
This is the conclusion of SHANGHAI GIRLS. I found it better than SHANGHAI GIRLShanghai Girls as it wasn't as drawn out and wordy. It's not a pretty story, but is a compelling read. Well written and I cared about the characters. I recommend it.
Deborah
Harvard Yard by William Martin
This fiction book is based on the real history, people, architecture and events of the founding of Harvard and the following centuries as the plot is brought forward, with the modern-day book antiquarian, Peter Fallon, looking for an original Shakespeare folio which had been donated to Harvard in its earliest years, but which had to be hidden to avoid destruction by Cotton Mather and other religious and Harvard academics over many decades. This book alternates from the past events and jumps to the present, back and forth, in a fascinating blend of the treasure hunt in the present, and the events of the past surrounding the mystery/treasure. There are five of these "Peter Fallon" series books---and they're fantastic, really great reading!
Helen
The Book Thief by Markus Zuzak
Strange tale with a different take on WWII Germany. Brilliant plot that says so much about what it was like without telling about more than a handful of characters.
Tessa B C
The Whole Town's Talking by Fannie Flagg
This is Flagg’s fourth book about the residents of Elmwood Springs. In this volume, she tells the history of Elmwood Springs, beginning with the 1889 founding of the settlement and up to about 2020. This isn’t great literature, but Flagg spins a darn good yarn. It’s entertaining and full of lively characters.
Shelley
Refugee by Alan Gratz
REFUGEE by Alan Gratz is a dynamic story of three kids around the age of 12 years old from different time periods/places (Josef 1938 Germany, Isabel 1994 Cuba, Mahmoud 2015 Syria). Vivid details and excellent writing put the reader in the shoes of the kids. Each journey can be read separately but the stories are intertwined and set up to read together in alternating chapters. Notes from the author at the end of the book describe how he took real life events to form these composite characters. Maps show routes taken to demonstrate the distance these kids went for freedom. A quote in Mahmoud's story rings true for them all: "But there was no reason they couldn't make a new life for themselves somewhere else. Start over. Be happy again."
Shelley
A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles
Very well written. I heard the author speak this week about the book. He is articulate, funny and thoughtful. His knowledge of Russian history and ability to connect with the audience was outstanding.
Ivy
The Star Side of Bird Hill by Naomi Jackson
This story that takes place in Barbados, with brief recollections of Brooklyn, was an engrossing story of two sisters sent to live with their grandmother in Barbados while their mom deals with mental instability. The love, anger and eventual resolution is a heartwarming story about overcoming disappointment in a new land.
Bonnie
Mrs. Fletcher by Tom Perrotta
An entertaining enough novel, but I didn't like it nearly as much as many reviewers did.
Nancy
A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles
Many in our book club felt that the book began slowly, but then had so many twists and turns that it kept our interest and had an amazing ending.
Gerry
Nutshell by Ian McEwan
Written from a creative and interesting perspective and in a somewhat pretentious style, this novel started slowly, but gradually grabbed my attention enough that I wanted to see how it ended. But if you're looking for likable characters, look elsewhere.
Gerry
And Every Morning the Way Home Gets Longer and Longer by Fredrik Backman
What a beautiful story! Grandpa knows he is losing his memories, and is looking for a way to explain his decline to his dearly loved grandson Noah. I read in one sitting, ending in tears and smiles.
Gerry
All Our Wrong Todays by Elan Mastai
An interesting tale of a time traveler, exploring the life he "should" have had and faced with a decision whether or not to "fix" the past. Not surprising to see that the author of this debut novel was first a screenwriter, as it often read more like a screenplay.
Gerry
Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis by J. D. Vance
A well-written memoir of growing up in the Appalachian "hillbilly" community, first in Kentucky, and then in a community of Kentucky transplants in Ohio. J. D. Vance presents a balanced perspective on the combination of poverty, limited opportunities and poor decision-making that seem to doom this culture to continued marginalization. While there are steps the government (especially local governments) might take to improve the lives of these people, Vance places primary responsibility on the community itself, to instill in its children the work ethic and sense of personal responsibility to improve their own lives, and those of subsequent generations.
Gerry
Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate
A sad but very engaging story, based on true events, about a for-profit adoption scheme in Tennessee during the first half of the 20th century. Georgia Tann headed the Tennessee Children's Home Society for several decades, earning respect and accolades for her charitable work. In the 1940s, questions began to surface about how children were placed into the care of the Society, and investigations ultimately uncovered a host of deceptive and even criminal practices, including outright kidnapping of poor children who were later "sold" to affluent adoptive parents.
Gerry
Golden Hill: A Novel of Old New York by Francis Spufford
An interesting story about a mysterious stranger who arrives from London in 1746 New York. He brings a bearer bond for a large sum of money, but has little to say about its source or his purpose in the city. The author did an excellent job creating the setting of the colonial city, though the plot was slow to develop.
Gerry
The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller
4 1/2 stars for a well-written, always engaging novel about Achilles and the Trojan War, told from the point of view of Achilles' lover. Fascinating throughout, and incorporated a good bit of Greek mythology without ever seeming fantastical.
Gerry
The Lying Game by Ruth Ware
After a strong opening, I found my patience with these four supposedly adult women waning quickly. Without giving anything away, I'd say it was clear from the beginning that the "big event" in their past was more and quite different from what it had seemed, and that lessened the suspense as the story progressed. Disappointing overall.
Gerry
Morningstar: Growing Up with Books by Ann Hood
2 1/2 stars. It was interesting but not special. Many of the books that made an impression on Ann Hood were books I also read. Like her, I was most powerfully impacted by JOHNNY GOT HIS GUN. Nothing in her comments about the handful I have not read inspired me to go look for them.
Gerry
Glass Houses by Louise Penny
GLASS HOUSES is Louise Penny's best novel yet! As always, there are her wonderful characters and a complex, suspenseful plot, with an ending that I hadn't guessed, but that made perfect sense when all fell into place. My only issue is the jumping back and forth between past and present, which was sometimes challenging to follow. For that reason, 4 1/2 stars. The worst part of finishing a Louise Penny novel is having to wait a whole year for the next one.
Gerry
The Mothers by Britt Bennett
"We see the span of her life unspoolin' in colorful threads and we chase it, wrappin' it around our hands as more tumbles out." The Mothers are the matrons of an African American church, and a Greek chorus narrating this tale of Nadia, a young woman traumatized by the suicide of her own mother, as she grows through adolescence and into adulthood in this well-written and very engaging novel.
Gerry
Tigers in Red Weather by Liza Klaussman
In many ways, this novel felt like a reprise of THE GREAT GATSBY, not so much in plot, but in characters and tone. Written in successive sections each narrated by a different character, it explores the lives and interactions of a damaged family whose members seem to each be caught in their own world of isolated fantasy.
Rosemary
I'm Still Here by Clelie Avit
Elsa is in a coma, but suddenly becomes aware that she can think and hear everything around her. One day, a young man slips into her room to avoid conflicts in his family, reads her chart out of curiosity, and becomes strangely taken with her. He begins visiting her, talking to her, meeting her friends when suddenly the doctors claim she's irredeemable. What's to become of them, or her, or him? A gripping piece of fiction with great moral undertones. A must read!
Julie
Beneath a Scarlet Sky by Mark Sullivan
One of the best books I've read this year! It's based on the true story of Pino Lella, who at 17 helped lead Jews through the Alps into Switzerland. He's still alive today!
Helen
Enigma: An FBI Thriller by Catherine Coulter
Another of the Sherlock and Savich FBI thrillers. I never get tired of this series as each book has a couple of new characters who are always interesting. This plot was a good one and went off in a couple of directions. Never boring, always something new around the corner. I loved it. More!
Kay
The Nature of the Beast: A Chief Inspector Gamache Novel by Louise Penny
Another thriller from one of our favorite authors. We love Gamache!
Donna
Portrait of Vengeance: A Gwen Marcey Novel by Carrie Stuart Parks
Gwen insists on taking the case of a missing child in Idaho because of similarities of her own childhood. As the investigation progresses, she realizes that several children have been kidnapped over the years. An attempt is made on her life, and she is convinced she knows who is behind the missing children who are presumed to be dead. Other attempts are made on her life, and as she solves this case, she realizes she still isn't safe.
Judy O.
If the Creek Don't Rise by Leah Weiss
In this wonderful book, we explore the worlds of people who live in Appalachia in the 1970s. Each character writes a chapter or two about his/her life there. We meet the new school teacher, the minister of the church, a young girl who marries the local bad boy and bully, some of the local characters, etc. All of these stories are tied together by shared experiences. It is beautifully written in the vernacular of Appalachia.
Sheryl
To Be Where You Are: A Mitford Novel by Jan Karon
I've never read any of Ms. Karon's Mitford series, and I was in for such a treat. l didn't feel lost, even though this is the 14th novel in the series. It made me want to go back and read the series from the start. I certainly want to keep up with this wonderful series from now on. It's a great holiday read as well. I highly recommend this to anyone who just wants to forget about the state of the world we are living in now and imagine a life in Mitford!
Debbie
Death by the Light of the Moon by Joan Hess
What a wacky story, complete with a fading mansion and all the people wanting a piece of this pie. The old home place rests in Louisiana with all the clichés of that area. The relatives meet to celebrate the birthday of Miss Justicia, only Miss Justicia drowns the night before her birthday and before revealing her new will to all her gathered relatives. Joan Hess does create a sense of foreboding and mystery, but the plot veers too off the path. The description of the setting sets the mood, but the characters flatly inhabit the pages. This series does not call me to continue reading.
Debbie
The Orphan Mother by Robert Hicks
THE ORPHAN MOTHER presents a story of the “Negro” after the Civil War, and the times called for great fortitude. The story begins with Mariah Reddick in 1892, getting ready for her demise. But before she dies, Mariah must give a huge donation to a “Negro” college. Next, the reader is taken back to 1867, and the events that condemned Mariah to a childless existence. Mariah, a midwife, has a profession that earns her enough money to eke out an existence. Robert Hicks paints a vivid picture of the life of the free slaves, and the feelings of the beaten Southerners after the Civil War. He evokes strong feelings for Mariah, George Tole and Carrie McGavock.
Debbie
The Darling Dahlias and the Cucumber Tree by Susan Wittig Albert
This book gently exposes a small town in Alabama in the 1930s, where life revolved around family and friends, and many people faced financial ruin. The story centers on women involved in a gardening club back in the day when flower gardens and vegetable gardens presented women with a pleasure. They competed and canned and shared the fruits of their labors with one another. A pretty face and beguiling manner quickly charms the men of the town, but that creates a problem. I thoroughly enjoyed the analysis done by the women in solving two crimes. The writing starts slowly, but lures the reader into the story. A very pleasing portrait of Southern life in the 1930s.
Susan
The Passenger by Lisa Lutz
This novel keeps you guessing the whole time. Why this woman keeps running after finding her husband at the bottom of the stairs is the premise of this book.
Joanne
The Orphan's Tale by Pam Jenoff
Amazing, heartbreaking piece of historical fiction set during World War II. The story is told from alternating perspectives of 16-year-old Noa and 40-year-old Astrid (who was born Ingrid Klimt, a Jew). Pregnant Noa is kicked out of her family home by her strict father and ends up having her newborn taken away by the Third Reich, who prizes the Aryan look (though her baby is born with olive skin and dark eyes). Noa is taken in by a traveling circus who shelters and hides Jews, including the baby Noa takes from a train car filled with half-dead babies that she discovers are all Jewish. Astrid has her own sad tale and is an experienced aerialist in the circus. In order for Noa to stay in the circus, she must earn her keep. Highly recommended.
Francisca E B
A Burglar's Guide to the City by Geoff Manaugh
Manaugh looks at architecture and the central role it plays in the crime of burglary. The book begins and ends with the 19th-century New York superburglar George Leonidas Leslie, who used his training as an architect to figure out new and unexpected ways to gain entry to buildings. There were parts of this book that I found completely fascinating, but Manaugh has a tendency towards repetition.
Ruth
A Fierce Radiance by Lauren Belfer
This is a wonderful book about the development of penicillin.
Erin
The Chilbury Ladies' Choir by Jennifer Ryan
A WWII story focusing on the ladies left behind to cope when all the men of the town are off to war, and told from the perspective of several girls and ladies in the choir, this is an interesting read.
Suzy N
Truly Madly Guilty by Liane Moriarty
This is the third book I've read by Ms. Moriarty, and I am more impressed by her writing with each book. Although you will figure out some it, that doesn't matter. What matters is that there are always more secrets, more lies, more intrigue and more subtlety than first expected. This is NOT chick-lit; it is far more complex. Sure, some will read it for the surface story of three couples, a few children, an annoying neighbor, and what happens "that day," but others, like me, read it for the author's sharp insight into modern relationships. Ms. Moriarty has a grasp, like few authors, for dialogue that really gets to the heart of each character. I can't wait to read the rest of her books!
Donna
Dogs at the Perimeter by Madeleine Thein
This is a difficult book to read as it takes place in Cambodia during the Khmer Rouge reign of terror and is told through the eyes of a young child. People disappear for no reason, families are torn apart, people struggle from moment to moment to stay alive, and many starve to death. This is a cruel and enlightening novel.
Martha
The Wangs vs. the World by Jade Chang
I was the only one in my book club to find something positive to say about this book. The story of a Chinese American family who loses all of their wealth due to the father borrowing too much money for his very successful cosmetic company rides along as roughly as the old car he drives away from their expensive home, picking up the teenage daughter from boarding school, the son from college, headed from Arizona to New York state to the home of the oldest daughter. Reviewers called it hilarious. My book club didn't agree. I can see it as a hilarious movie. Character development was quite good, and it showed the strength of family bonds when it came to being tested. Frankly, I think it will be better appreciated by those readers under 50.
Linda
The Fact of a Body: A Murder and a Memoir by Alexandria Marzano-Lesnevich
There is a different juxtapositioning in this book. The author, after earning her law degree, looks into the murder of a young boy and three subsequent trials for the accused pedophile. As she reviews the files and transcripts, she parallels the experience of the defendant with her own abuse at the hands of her grandfather. The chronology gets tangled while listening. The narrative moves among Ricky's childhood, Ricky now, the author's childhood and her now.
Martha
The Things We Keep by Sally Hepworth
An enjoyable, poignant story. Anna, age 38, has early onset Alzheimer's, and her twin brother has put her in a care facility with mostly seniors who have various health problems. There is one other younger patient, Luke, age 41, with dementia. They are drawn to each other and begin a relationship, but those who want to "protect" disapprove and block them. Eve, a young widow and mother who has taken a job as chef and cleaner in the facility, believes this is wrong --- that though not of sound mind and body, these two deserve whatever love and happiness they can experience. She really has no power in the decision-making and acts on her idea despite the risks. The story brings to light so much of the dilemma surrounding memory care.
Linda
The Awakening of H.K. Derryberry: My Unlikely Friendship with the Boy Who Remembers Everything by Jim Bradford with Andy Hardin
H.K. Derryberry is a nine-year-old blind boy who also has cerebral palsy and is sitting in a restaurant where his custodial grandmother works. She cannot afford to pay anyone to watch H.K., so on the weekends he goes to work with her. In walks Jim Bradford, an older man who says "Hi" to the young man. Thus starts a long-term relationship in which both H.K. and Jim come to realize that limits are barriers we set upon ourselves. This is mostly a feel-good story, but sometimes the tone didn't sit well for me.
Debbie
The Christmas Blessing by Melody Carlson
My first Christmas novella of the season and a pleasant story. The story displays all of those wonderful holiday emotions of love, pity, forgiveness, piety and faith. WWII looms in the background as a young mother faces the upcoming Christmas alone with her child and her dire situation. Amelia leaves California on the train heading toward Montana to find her baby's grandparents. The trip leaves Amelia sick and penniless as her wallet is stolen. Both Amelia and baby Jimmy fall deathly sick in Rockford, unable to care for themselves. In the spirit of God's love and kindness, a guardian angel provides for these weary travelers. Melody Carlson shows a message of hope and kindness in this short tale.
Richard N B
Columbine by Dave Cullen
Gripping, fascinating and horrifying. Cullen has done extensive research and made every effort to remain an impartial journalist, ferreting out facts and revealing them without judgment. The result is perhaps even more disturbing than what I thought I knew about it.
Bonnie
Y is for Yesterday by Sue Grafton
Not her best, but still entertaining and escapist.
Marsha
Beneath a Scarlet Sky by Mark Sullivan
This is a six-star novel and the best book I have read all year. Based on a true story of a forgotten hero, it is a tale of one young man's journey and resilience during the Nazi invasion of Italy. It will mesmerize you as you learn of the courage of young men as they try to save Milan and northern Italy. If you are familiar with that area of Italy, you will shudder at the devastation.
Ilene
Dunbar by Edward St. Aubyn
Henry Dunbar is an 80-year-old industrialist who has built one of the largest media companies in the world. Megan and Abigail, his two daughters, have him committed to a sanatorium so that they can take control of the company. Henry plans to escape so that he can regain control. Will the selfish daughters prevail? Will the company even remain in the family? What makes this book so interesting is that another media giant is planning a hostile takeover with help from other family members. This book is good, and I recommend it.
Linda
Finding Gobi: A Little Dog with a Very Big Heart by Dion Leonard
Does the dog die? No! I don't think it's the fact that a dog found us this year that makes this parallel story so wonderful. No, I don't run ultra-marathons through the Gobi Desert. The author of this book did, and that's how he discovered a little dog with a big step who kept up with him through a race across the Gobi --- thus, the dog's name. I won't spoil any of the many trials Leonard went through to get Gobi home to Scotland. Rest assured there is a happy ending. This book helped demonstrate that we can believe in good from humanity at times, too.
Regina
Unraveling Oliver by Liz Nugent
"I expected more of a reaction the first time I hit her." Remember this opening line. It is the beginning of a haunting novel about honesty, dishonesty and betrayal. Not a word is wasted in
telling the story of Oliver and the people in his life who loved him and hated him. I found the writing to be engaging and addictive.
Jan
The Thirst by Jo Nesbo
Can Jo Nesbo get any better? If you have not read earlier Harry Hole books, this one may be confusing. Nesbo includes a lot of past characters like Mikael Bellman and Isabelle Skoyen, who have a detailed history with Harry. Harry is now married to Rakel and is retired from the police force. He teaches at the Police Academy and is mostly content there. However, an old nemesis shows up, and Bellman asks him to come back, choose his own team and help find this murderer. Harry can not resist. This is the most complex murder mystery in the series, and the reader has to deal with aliases, leaks from the investigation, and women just keep getting murdered. If you are a Nesbo fan, prepare to read through the night.
Jan
Gods in Alabama by Joshilyn Jackson
This debut novel is about a young woman who leaves home (a small town in Alabama) as soon as she graduates from high school. She is now in graduate school in Chicago and in love with an attorney. She expects them to get married. She has met his family and loves them; he has not met her family and wants to do so. She has one problem with that: she is a Southern white woman, and he is a black man from Chicago. All the stereotypes are used here, and there are some funny moments. The less than 5 rating is because the book drones on with her morose thoughts. For the most part she is a negative person.
Melissa
I Let You Go by Clare Mackintosh
Best thriller I've read this year. You'll gasp, you'll cry, you'll keep turning the pages as fast as you can. I enjoyed this book immensely. Note: Not for the faint of heart or those who have suffered terrible abuse by a loved one. This book is violent and absorbing.
Melissa
The Wrong Bride by Gayle Callen
An extremely well-written and researched romance. I enjoy learning about culture and history in my romances. This is the first in a series called Highland Weddings. Read all three books if you enjoy Scottish historical romance.
Melissa
The Woman in Cabin 10 by Ruth Ware
Although the cruise is very twisted in this thriller, I'd still take one! The majority of the book is about the cruise and laying the groundwork for a list of suspects and motives. The end will take your breath away! I just can't get over the end! I'll never forget it.
Patricia
The Unquiet Grave by Sharyn McCrumb
I always love reading Sharyn McCrumb's books. This was no exception. I loved the story. Thank you Sharyn again for great reading entertainment! I think my book club should read this book too.
Patricia
Wonder by R.J. Palacio
This is a fantastic book to read no matter your age. I loved it. I hear it will soon be a movie. I'm looking forward to that. I hope they do the film right.
Caroline
The Marriage Pact by Michelle Richmond
This book was a complete page turner. I loved the mood, the atmosphere and the tension that was prevalent throughout nearly the entire novel. It was such an excellent read that I had to put aside everything else so that I could progress further until I finished.
Tessa B C
Please Look After Mom by Kyung-Sook Shin
This is the story of one family’s search for their mother, who has gone missing one afternoon in a crowded Seoul subway station. The author tells the story from the perspective of four characters, and also uses second person voice for much of the book. Perhaps she intended to draw the reader in with this technique, or perhaps it is a common grammatical choice in Korean, but I found it difficult to connect to the characters.
Lynn W
The Alice Network by Kate Quinn
One of the best WWII historical novels I've read in the past couple of years!
Liz
Close Enough to Touch by Colleen Oakley
Jubilee Jenkins was born with a rare allergy to human touch. Her mother leaves her when she is about 18, and Jubilee becomes a recluse for the next nine years. She is then forced to go out and face the world, where she meets and falls in love with Eric, who has a host of problems of his own. I enjoyed this book very much until I got to the last two pages! Ugh. The writing style was well done, and the story very entertaining.
Rosemarie
The Best of Us: A Memoir by Joyce Maynard
This memoir recounts how the author finally met her soulmate, fell in love, married (in her late 50s), and shortly after, he became ill with pancreatic cancer. I loved this book, and it will stay with me for a while. It's rare that a book about illness and death can be sad but also hopeful. The writing was excellent.
