This contest period's winners were Alina E., Debbie P. and Nancy H., who each received a copy of THE RULES OF MAGIC by Alice Hoffman and UNCOMMON TYPE: Some Stories by Tom Hanks.
Trezeline
A Column of Fire by Ken Follett
As wonderful as the first two books in the series. I hope there is a fourth one. I didn't want the story to end. This book was exciting, it was a mystery, it was informative and an excellent read. I really enjoyed it. Ken Follett never fails.
LINDA
The Seventh Element by Rosalie Lario
WOW! I was intrigued from the moment I read the first page! I couldn't help but to rapidly read this THRILLING story as I devoured Book One and now I'm anxious to read, Book Two! College freshman, Jewel Harris, learns that she'd been living a lie and that her best friend had lied to her! The world is not the same as yesterday when Jewel saw a battle between the hot guy in her art class and another guy and she gets caught up in the battle. Book One is a hold-onto-your-seat story that left me breathless and panting for MORE!!
Bonnie
Since We Fell by Dennis Lehane
I'd give this one two stars for the first half and 5 stars for the second half. It's -oing at first, but stick around and you won't be able to put it down.
Dorothy
The Women in the Castle by Jessica Shattuck
This a very good book if you like reading about war. It also tells how three women and their children learn to live together. It is very interesting and keeps you wondering what will happen next.
Susan
Saints for All Occasions by J. Courtney Sullivan
This was an excellent book! It shared two sisters loves from their travels to the U.S. when they were only teenagers. It shows the different paths their lives took, from marriages, to children, to death. The family bonds are explored while the rich storytelling made me want to keep reading about people who I came to know with each chapter. This Irish Catholic family saga is well worth the read.
Diane
Winter by Marissa Meyer
One of the best in the series. WINTER is a wonderful protagonist.
Beth
Lincoln in the Bardo by George Saunders
I found this book confusing and could not keep the characters straight.
Christine
Neverwhere by Neil Gaiman
I just reread this book; the first/last time I read it was in 1999 shortly after it came out. I loved it then, and I still love it 18 years later. It is magical and whimsical, and it kick-started my interest in all things Neil Gaiman.
Lynda
Our Souls at Night by Kent Haruf
I had tears in my eyes as I finished reading this beautiful love story, and I cried again when I looked up the author the next morning and discovered that it was the last book he wrote before he passed away recently.
Jennie
The Snow Child by Eowyn Ivey
Loved the author's descriptions of life in Alaska in the early 1900s. The story was lovely, but quite melancholy. It made we want to read more novels by this author.
S
All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr
A World War II story about a blind girl in France and a young German radio operator among the occupying forces.
Linda
The Chords of War by Christopher Meeks
THE CHORDS OF WAR may be destined to have the impact of ALL QUIET ON THE WESTERN FRONT as the defining novel of the Millennials’ war in Iraq. It has already made my 2017 Top Three list of books. Christopher Meeks collaborated with U.S. Army and Middle East War Veteran, musician and filmmaker Samuel Gonzalez, Jr. to fictionalize the defining moments of his life. I would recommend this as a brilliant illustration of the futility of the nearly three decades long ongoing war in Iraq which began with Operation Desert Storm in January, 1991. His life altering, coming-of-age experiences might be summarized as “he came from music and returned to music and embraced filmmaking.” Perfect reading for an advanced reading group.
Donna
World Without End by Ken Follett
Re-read. Enjoyed just as much as re-read of PILLARS OF THE EARTH.
Janet
Martin Marten by Brian Doyle
Brian at his best! Our group loved MINK RIVER but this one is absolutely fantastically, beautifully crafted. Living in Portland, Oregon, our club was blessed to meet this incredible author. I did NOT want this adventure to end; he so deftly captures the hearts and souls of both human and other beings! The closing of this book brought me to tears, bemoaning the passing of this man much too early. I know he had a hundred more stories to share. So much for a group to discuss in this one -- do not miss it!
Michelle
The Heart's Invisible Furies by John Boyne
Loved this book from the first sentence to the last. One of my top 10 favorite books now. Cyril is a character I won't soon forget. Nor will I be able to pick up a book again any time soon that will live up to this amazing read.
Allison
His Last Letter by Jeane Westin
Great story about Elizabeth I of England.
Sharon
Once Upon a Spine by Kate Carlisle
Always learn something about books and bookmaking from this mystery series, and in this one it was about paper-making as well as some history of the earliest editions of the Lewis Carroll book ALICE IN WONDERLAND. As for the mystery, it centers around the death (murder?) of a cobbler who does not run true to the stereotype of grungy, staid and somewhat dirty shoe repair man, but is a neat, clean handsome stud. Wow! And then there's the booksellers, the owner of the hat shop, the wonderful pies and soon-to-be in-laws from England as well as Kate's new-age-y parents. Fun read.
Jayme
LaRose by Louise Erdrich
This is a compelling story about how grief can twist and destroy if not allowed to live. Highly recommend.
Jayme
Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman
Before I give my opinion on the actual book I need to make a comment regarding the publishing blurb written to entice you to buy the book. The blurb states that it is "smart, warm, and uplifting." I thought when I picked it up it would be on the lines of THE ROSIE PROJECT. It is not. That doesn't mean that it is not a good book. It is - but it is about a woman driven to suffering from deep depression due to horrific acts she received as a child. Know that going in and you will appreciate the depth and impact of the story.
Judy
Cragside by L. J. Ross
DCI is at a party at Cragside, a lovely English estate, when the lights go out. Finding a way out into a courtyard, he discovers the butler...dead of course. What a way to start a murder mystery. Along the way there are other victims, and the team moves into action to solve this murder.
Matt
Down a Dark Road by Linda Castillo
Many of you know this series about a female chief of police who was raised Amish. I have read all of the previous books and like this one as well. I am fond of strong women in books. I was a little put off that I generally knew who the killer was early on. I like the bits about Amish life but wonder wow the author can know so much about it.
Susan
A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman
Ove was a grumpy old man who thought he had noting to live for, but people thought otherwise.
Pam
The Alice Network by Kate Quinn
The dual storylines from different time periods seems to be very popular lately and I'm getting bored with that technique. The story of Eve in 1915 is much more interesting than that of Charley in 1947. Parts of this book seem like a romance novel more than historical fiction.
Dorothy
The Sleeping Beauty Killer by Mary Higgins Clark
A waste of time. I knew who did it in the first chapter. Not up to Mary Higgins Clark. Maybe because of the co-author Alafair Burke.
Marjorie
The Women in the Castle by Jessica Shattuck
I really loved this book about Germany during the 2nd World War. I hadn't thought before about the German people who opposed Hitler. It gave me a different point of view about these Germans. It was so sad to read about the hardships they endured, and the promise made to help those that survived.
Marsha N
Love and Other Consolation Prizes by Jamie Ford
Ford's writing gets better and better. Inspired by a true story, a young boy is auctioned off at the 1909 World's Fair. His story and the others that have been stolen from their homes is heartwarming and will bring you to thank God for your safe life.
SUSAN
The French War Bride by Robin Wells
This is a book whose characters stayed with me long after I finished the last page. The story begins in the present with a meeting between two women in their nineties, one of whom is the French war bride of the title, and the other who is the jilted fiancée of the man who married the war bride and brought her to America with him. A complex plot and realistic circumstances make for a good book that became increasingly harder to put down. If you enjoy novels about WW II in France, you'll like this one.
Maureen
The Pieces We Keep by Kristina McMorris
Loved this alternating time period book. The characters were great and it was a suspenseful read. Highly recommended for book clubs.
Betty
Love and Other Consolation Prizes by Jamie Ford
Jamie Ford does it again with a beautifully written fictional memoir. Earnest Young is half Chinese, half American who was raffled off at the 1903 Seattle World's Fair and wound up working in the highest class brothel in Seattle. It's a story that takes you from the beginning of the 20th century to 1962 and back again. It's worth five stars.
Julie
In Farleigh Field by Rhys Bowen
Enjoyable English mystery that takes place during the Second World War.
Richard N B
Knots and Crosses by Ian Rankin
This is the first in the Inspector John Rebus mystery series. Edinburgh is plagued by a series of kidnapping/killings of young girls. Rankin writes a fast-paced thriller with several twists and turns in the plot, and a complex lead character. I will definitely read more of this series.
Peg
Poison by Galt Niederhoffer
I knew nothing about this novel & that's why I enjoyed it. So if you plan to read it, don't check many of the reviews because of the spoilers. It's hard to write a review without giving away points that made it so enjoyable. It's a psychological thriller, fast-paced except at the start when the author was setting the storyline. Then it moved quickly & I couldn't put it down. It's about what seems like the perfect family but that plot quickly goes awry because of the protagonist's husband who was abusive in every way. The author must have done a lot of research into investigative journalism, police matters, psychiatric procedures, lethal drugs & doses, & computer hacking. Reinforces it's hard for women to be believed when reporting crimes.
LINDA
Beacon: Volume 1 (Jo Benally) by November Ellison
WOW, I have never read a book that puts good versus evil in this way before, and I was captivated from the very first page!! For non-believers this book is not for you, although it should be as I was so moved by the story of Pastor Jo Benally that I HAVE to read the next!!
Shirley
IQ by Joe Ide
I love the concept of a young man with the initials IQ going around solving crimes by logic, research, and hard work. It took me a bit to get over the ghetto dialog and ridiculous stereotypes, and I don't like that guilt was a driving force in his helping others. And, a lot of different threads were just tied off too expediently and somewhat ironically. The review comparison to Elmore Leonard should have been a clue that I would not like it. But, I like the character enough to read another one. Hope IQ either leans toward being more like Alex Delaware or more like Stephanie Plum.
shelly
Al Capone and the 1933 World's Fair by William Elliot Hazelgrove
Mr Hazelgrove teaches us some history lessonsIf you read MADAM PRESIDENT you would have learned how Edith Wilson behind the scenes ran the White House when her husband was too sick. Then in FORGING OF A PRESIDENT you will learn all about Teddy Roosevelt before he became President and about his experiences in the Wild West. Now we are learning about the World Fair of 1933. We learn about Sally Rand, also knows as Harriet Helen Beck, from the Ozark Mountains of Missouri and how Nelson DeMille decided to change her name to Sally Rand. When the Fair opened Ms. Rand was completely naked and covered in white paint and riding a white house to the opening of the World Fair.
Debbie
The Whole Town's Talking by Fannie Flagg
This is not one of the better novels by Fannie Flagg. Flagg's novel spans too many years and reads like the book of Genesis of the Bible The novel seems to be who begat who, and in the end, the reader has too many characters to remember. Flagg does bring into the novel all the historic events form the 1890s to the 2010s. The majority of the story deals with the town's dead residents talking among themselves that parallels SPOON RIVER ANTHOLOGY. The story deals with death and how people handle death. The story also centers on love and disappointment, but again too many characters and too long in time. Too many issues remain unresolved.
Margaret
Second Nature by Alice Hoffman
I hope that eventually I'll be able to read all the books written by Alice Hoffman. I certainly have a long way to go but managed to quickly read SECOND NATURE. I liked the well-developed characters, the concept, and of course, the writing style. She usually writes with more mysticism than she did in this novel, but she has written a novel that I enjoyed very much. It has depth, emotion, suspense, realistic settings, and a secret, sad romance. Alice Hoffman knows how to write about human nature. This novel has several storylines among its characters and they all deal with how we react to various situations in our lives. Thought-provoking book.
Jan
Glass Houses by Louise Penny
A strange character/person appears in Three Pines, dressed fully in black with a face mask - just standing out on the green. The person (?) seems to stand there day and night. Armand, the Chief Superintendent of the Federal Police, goes to the black character, talks, asks questions but the person says nothing. After several days, a crowd gathers and is angry with the Cobrador (a person in black who just stands in judgment of a person who commits evil - physically or morally). Armand goes out to disperse the crowd. The next morning the person in black is gone. But a guest in the village is found dead in the church basement. She has on the cobrador costume. The novel begins with the trial of the person who killed her.
Donna
American Pain: How a Young Felon and his Ring of Doctors Unleashed America's Deadliest Drug Epidemic. by John Temple
An eye-opening and disturbing book about how a young man, lax Florida drug laws, pharmaceutical companies and greed caused the worst drug epidemic in America. Drug manufactures claiming that oxicodone was not habit-forming, doctors found on Craigslist, drug addicts and drug pushers coming from surrounding states, allowed illegal pain clinics to flourish.
Gladys
Stolen by the Highlnder by Terri Brisbin
Totally intriguing story of historical clans, interesting characters, but the too-detailed sex scene disappointed me. To each his own opinion, I guess.
Lori
The Wife Between Us by Greer Hendricks and Sarah Pekkanen
I’m so glad that I got the opportunity to read an advance copy of THE WIFE BETWEEN US. What a unique book! At first, I mistakenly thought I could predict the whole story, so I wasn’t too excited about it. Once I realized my assumptions were all wrong, I couldn’t put the book down. There were surprises all the way to the epilogue. I thought the book was very cleverly written, and I’m impressed that the work was a collaboration of two authors. I highly recommend the book and look forward to reading more from the writing team.
DON
Good Me Bad Me by Ali Land
A great story narrated by the talented Imogen Church. Probably will save it and read again another day!
Courtney
Best Day Ever by Kaira Rouda
An individual's darkest secrets lie in the most subtle of details. This quick read digs deep, revealing pivotal characteristics inside the mind of a psychopath. Paul Strom describes himself as the perfect man - handsome, doting father, loyal husband. He's itching to whisk his wife away to their summer home and kick up the romance a notch. Mister Strom, ever so confident, is living the American Dream, until one poorly executed decision causes his entire web of lies to spin desperately out of control. BEST DAY EVER is a thrilling read, riddled with characteristics and traits that eloquently flesh out the characters.
Donna
Echoes of Family by Barbara Claypole White
Marianne and Gabriel were teenage sweethearts and planned on getting married. A tragedy ended their plans and for thirty years they lived tormented behind secrets and memories. They lived a continent apart and never communicated with each other. Marianne realized she had to confront her past or she would, eventually, be successful in her attempted suicides.
Liz
Odd Child Out by Gilly Macmillan
Two fifteen-year old boys, living in Bristol, England become unlikely friends when one of them receives a scholarship to a prestigious school. One boy is from a privileged white family, the other is a refugee from Somalia. The boys sneak out one evening and things get out of hand with terrible consequences. Inspector Clemo must unravel the events of that fateful night to find the truth as to what really happened.
Liz
Moloka'i by Alan Brennert
Rachel is seven years old, living in Hawaii, when it is discovered she has leprosy. It is the late eighteen hundreds and she is taken away from her family and forced to live and grow up on Moloka'i in the leper colony. The story follows Rachel as she gets to adulthood. This story is beautifully told, while being heartbreaking at times.
Phyllis
The Map That Leads to You by J.P. Monninger
An interesting book of how life changes plans, love appears unexpectedly and friendship. It has well-developed characters and is full of descriptions of interesting travel spots.
LINDA
Nowhere to Run by Jeanne Bannon
OMG, what a story! I was rapidly reading every page and it was like I was really there through the story! Lily's desire to try to protect her sister was endearing and I was mad as hell at the police force and town thinking that Lily had killed her sister as it was a small town and everyone knew each other's business. The story was so dramatic that I had chills, and I can't wait to get the author's next book!!
Thomas
Exposed by Lisa Scottoline
This is an excellent book to read. It was really good.
Lynn W
The Dollhouse by Fiona Davis
Read THE ADDRESS first and really enjoyed it. This was obviously a debut novel, but still a very interesting read.
Judy O.
Ordinary Grace by William Kent Krueger
Don't miss this wonderful bookTakes place in 1961 in New Bremen, MN. The story is about one awful summer when there were four largely unexplained deaths in this small town. The story is told through the eyes of Frank Drum, who is remembering this summer 40 years later. I wanted to read it again, for the third time, because the author is coming to our library on October 13.
Robin
Chalice by Robin McKinley
A wonderful view into a fantasy world. Robin McKinley slowly introduces you to the characters as they navigate a world where nature is connected to humans in tangible ways. It's delicately written and engrossing in its simple but deep world building.
Bonnie
Saints for all Occasions by J. Courtney Sullivan
A big, old family saga featuring an Irish-Catholic family from Ireland who settle in Boston. "Irish" and "Catholic" are almost two characters in this novel. Easy read.
Sheryl
The Bayou Strangler: Louisana's Most Gruesome Serial Killer by Fred Rosen
If you like True-Crime this one is for you. Ronald J. Dominique was a prolific serial killer that killed over twenty men between the years of 1997 through 2006 in Louisiana. His target victims were gay black men ranging from late teens to middle-age. He flew under the radar even while dumping some the bodies right out in the open. Dominique was not careful and how he managed to get away with these crimes as long as he did will remain a mystery to me. I still can't believe some of these men he managed to lure into his twisted web didn't manage to turn the tables on him and snap his neck! Mr. Rosen does a good job compiling all the information of this case and telling how they finally brought this man to justice.
Richard N B
Cops and Robbers by Donald E. Westlake
Tom and Joe are New York City policemen. They are also planning a grand heist that should net them two million dollars. This book doesn’t include the kind of zany antics that Westlake is known for in his comic crime capers, but there’s plenty of action, quite a few surprises and plot twists, and a great sense of time and place.
LINDA
One Hot Summer by Melissa Cutler
ONE HOT SUMMER is one of the best books I read this year and I liked that Remedy Lane, offspring of Hollywood royalty, did not let a scandal in Hollywood deter her from a job that she loved when she took an assignment as wedding planner in a Texas resort! I admired her for wanting to not her dad's name to open doors for her, and I giggled at the elephant that had a fetish for the golf course!
Lori
All the Ugly and Wonderful Things by Bryn Greenwood
Innocent child growing up with total dysfunctional home life, with a meth lab in another building of the home farm, finds innocent, pure love. Truthfully made me a bit nervous about relationship between child and adult family friend but depends on how you look at it! Would be great for book club discussion!
Phyllis
The Leavers by Lisa Ko
I can see why this made the NBA list of finalists and I highly recommend this novel. The leavers are Deming Guo and his mother, Polly Guo. This Chinese mother and Chinese American son finally get back together, but then leave again. Very well written with compassion for both mother and son. DACA is in the news and this addresses the sorrow of separation.
Phyllis
Same Beach, Next Year by Dorothea Benton Frank
The characters were not easy to relate to and were not nice. I did not find this book as enjoyable as her earlier novels.
Susan
The F Word by Liza Palmer
This book generated a lot of discussion among the readers. The readers liked the characters, their development, which made the characters likable, except the husband, and believable. We would recommend this book to other book clubs.
Dale
The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
Wow!! I did not want this story to end, but when it did I was crying. This was one of the best books I have read in years.
Rosa
The Exact Nature of Our Wrongs by Janet Peery
This is the story of the Campbells, a very dysfunctional family, but one whose members reminded me of many people I know in my life. The matriarch is Hattie, married to Abel, and together they have five adult children, each with his or her character flaws. Which all makes for just an interesting read, especially because of Peery's beautiful, thoughtful writing. I savored all of the words and was sad when the book ended (though I could not wait to see how it ended).
Donalene
Hidden Figures: The American Dream and the Untold Story of the Black Women Mathematicians Who Helped Win the Space Race by Margot Lee Shetterly
This is an excellent book about people unknown to me before reading the book. It is fascinating to read about them, their contributions, the discrimination they faced, their extraordinary knowledge, etc. I have not seen the movie, but I hope that it did the book and the people justice.
Pamela
The Girl With Seven Names by Hyeonseo Lee with David John
This book about a North Korean's defection is quite an eye-opener. It is a memoir written by the author.
Judy
Origin by Dan Brown
Once again Langford is in the middle of a mystery where his ability to see symbols and remember facts are called to the test. His atheist friend is giving a presentation to define "Where We Came From and Where Are We Going" and he is murdered before the answer can be given. With the help of Winston, the super computer built by his friend, and the fiancé of the Prince of Spain, he's off to another solution. Great read!
Brady
At Home in the World by Joyce Maynard
WOW. What a fine author who bares her soul in telling about her life's story. She starts out during her youth and goes up to her 40s. A lot happens to her and it is all most interesting. This is a good example of the realty of life. Most people think that "not that much" happens to them when, in reality, a lot goes on that adds up to much experience and thoughts of "I should have known better than to do that." A memorable read for sure.
Eileen
Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate
Haunting and beautifully written. Both Avery and Rill's stories were so compelling. Highly recommended.
Kathy
Death After Life by William A. Douglass
Several short stories of mining in early Nevada.
Diane
That's My Baby by Frances Itani
Frances Itani is a Canadian author who carefully and fully researches the various make up of each character as well as the time period. Her specialty is the two world wars, but includes topics such as PTSD, deafness, adoption and many things that are current as well. Many of her characters appear in all of her works, but you don't have to read her books in any particular order. I highly recommend this author to anyone looking for a thoughtful read.
Susan
A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman
Ove is a 59-year-old man who is down on life since his beloved Sonija passed away. How he looks at it after some changes is the basis for this book.
Dorothy
News of the World by Paulette Jiles
A story of a 10-year-old girl rescued from Indians and a elderly widower hired to locate the girl's aunt and uncle outside of Austin in the late 1800s. A story of relationships and of the old west. The author based locations in the book on her research of the area in the novel.
Shirley
The Golden House by Salman Rushdie
The first third was an uphill slog for me but the story was strong enough for me to want to finish the book. I am not a "literary" reader and not beguiled by the quantity of references he put into this book: mythology of multiple countries, books and movies in various languages at various times, folk and fairy tales, etc. However, even I am impressed by the breadth and depth of these inclusions, seemingly effortlessly. I wondered if he has a team of researchers constantly dredging up these bits, but in the end I have to believe this writer has such a superior intellect and observational powers that he deserves his many accolades. But, his female characters are clearly not protagonist material, just the men.
Marion
The Rent Collector by Camron Wright
I loved this book the first time I read it, but I enjoyed it this time even more. I am planning to review it for my book club. I hope their response is as positive as mine. The book is based on a film produced by the author’s son. It is a story about the very poor of Cambodia. They work hard, they are illiterate and their lives seem destined for continued poverty. However, there is a light at end of their despair!
LINDA
Curse the Moon: Cold War Rising by Lee Jackson
All I can say is WOW, what an awesome story!! The Cold War is hidden with betrayal and everyone knows the name Atcho but no one knows what he looks like.
Beatrice
The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
Heartbreaking, suspenseful book about life for people in France during the Nazi occupation.
Debbie
Bittersweet by Susan Wittig Albert
Susan Wittig Albert writes several series and I have enjoyed reading two of them. The China Bayles series which contains many recipes and interesting tidbits on spices and herbs. This novel dealt with deer hunting in Texas on preserves where the deer are genetically improved for better hunting. I guess I always thought that these preserves were for big game hunting and that deer did not fall into this realm. After reading this book, my dislike of deer hunting greatly increased and taste for venison disappeared. Susan W. Albert introduces many new characters, such as the adopted daughter China and her husband. Bittersweet, the ranch of China's mother and stepfather, provides a peaceful garden to the frantic deer hunting.
Sheryl
Hunting the Five Point Killer by C. M. Wendelboe
Arn Andeson, a retired investigator, former Denver Metro, returns to Cheyenne, Wyoming when his friend, investigative reporter, Ana Maria Villareal seeks his help in solving the decade-old "Five Point Killer" case. As Villareal starts her series, she draws the killer out of hiding and finds herself in danger. Anderson finds himself up against several roadblocks with the local police department who seem to just want this case to go away, even though it concerns three of their own who mysteriously perished during the first investigation. This is a very fast-paced mystery that had me on the edge of my chair trying to figure out who the killer could be. The setting and characters are well thought out and that what this mystery a win, win.
Augusta R.
Savoring the Seasons by Traci Borum
A Cotswold bakery, lively characters, a little romance, and you have a recipe for a good read.
This is the 4th book in the Chilton Crosse series. Reading this was like visiting an old friend. Some names were familiar to me from the previous books and it was great to see them again. Julia Bentley and her father (bakery proprietors) are the focus of this one and their interaction is special and admirable. A love interest, Tristan, enters the picture and one is left wondering whether their sweet relationship will grow and endure, right to the very end and satisfying conclusion. It's hard to leave this village so, Long Live Chilton Crosse! And here's wishing for
more books by Ms. Borum to 'savor'.
Sheryl
Fireworks in Paradise by Kathi Daley
This is the fifth installment of the Tj Jenson Mystery series. It's also the first one I've read and it's great. Tj gets word will she is vacationing on Gull Island that her father has been in a really bad car accident in which an old family friend was killed. She jumps on the next flight out to check on her dad as they're not sure he's going to make it. He's suffered a nasty blow to the head and he's in a coma. She learns a lot of information about the accident and ends up investigating why it happened. Her dad wasn't even supposed to be in the car with the mayor - he had car trouble and the mayor offered to give him a ride into town. This is a good mystery centered around a close-knit family and friends. It even has a hint of romance.
Audrey
Don't Let Go by Harlan Coben
Great book! I couldn't put it down. Harlan Coben is a great storyteller and I just love reading his books. I love the settings in New Jersey. This has a great mystery to be unraveled and you will enjoy trying to get to the bottom of it. I highly recommend this book.
Matt
The Vengeance of Mothers by Jim Fergus
I assume this book is a continuation of Fergus' first novel ONE THOUSAND WHITE WOMEN, which I have not read. This book is alternating chapters of journals of two of the characters in the story. Since the early chapters were somewhat bloody I almost stopped reading. After that the story was less stomach-turning and I read to the end. I think the journal approach is very effective and for the most part I enjoyed the book. I would probably give the book a five except for the gore and a couple of fantastic events which I can't accept.
Sandi
The Child Finder by Rene Denfeld
Naomi is the "child finder". Having been a "lost" child herself, once an adult, she devoted her education and time to tracking children who had disappeared. She usually took on one case at a time to fully devote herself to that one child. During her case involving Madison, Naomi began to have recurring nightmares. Madison's disappearance too closely paralleled her own tragic past. The story is told in alternating chapters, between Naomi and the Snow Girl. It gets raw in places, vulnerable in places and reads like a fairly tale in places. It is a violent, tragic coming-of-age story, a pleading for survival, a dredging up of past mistakes, and a magical mix of nightmare and dream. Denfeld brings this all together. She is an excellent author.
Anne
The Time In Between by Maria Duenas
Compelling historical. Memorable and unforgettable.
Donna
Working Fire by Emily Bleeker
An interesting story of family, loyalty, love, secrets, betrayal and murder. The twists in this story keep you turning the pages.
Elizabeth
The Hush by John Hart
Because John Hart's first five novels are all excellent, I trust him to write a winner every time. So I had high expectations for THE HUSH, his sixth. If you've read Hart's THE LAST CHILD, you will be familiar with the characters and setting in THE HUSH, although it can be read as a standalone novel. Jack and Johnny are no longer teenagers; it is now 10 years later. Sometimes, as usual, Hart's writing shines. But with THE HUSH, he has tried a new genre, fantasy. And it doesn't work for me. Johnny now lives in Hush Arbor, which is magic. Sometimes the magic is good and sometimes it is evil. Police are convinced that he is murdering trespassers who mysteriously die on his property.
Julie
Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman
An intriguing story about a young woman, a misfit, who at first glance is easy to dislike, but when you learn more about her history, you begin to warm up to her. The relationships in this story unfurl slowly, which I enjoyed. All in all, a great read!
Vicki
White Bodies by Jane Robins
This was a great psychological thriller that kept me guessing until the very end!
Karen
Long Way Gone by Charles Martin
I really enjoyed the book.
Debbie
Heft by Liz Moore
This book was recommended for those readers who liked A MAN CALLED OVE. It's about a very heavy man who has sequestered himself in his house for over a decade. He becomes friends with a quirky young woman who helps him face his current reality as well as a relationship he had in the past with a former student.
Franciscsa E B
Jane Steele by Lindsay Faye
3.5 stars. Lindsay Faye’s re-telling of JANE EYRE, is an imaginative romp. Readers of the classic will recognize many plot elements, but Faye has let her imagination run wild. The story is still set in the same era as Bronte’s classic novel, but this Jane is a serial killer. If that makes you gasp is horror…well, give the book a chance. It’s great fun to read.
Rosemary
Y Is for Yesterday by Sue Grafton
Maybe a little too convoluted, but a great read.
Katie
My Brilliant Friend by Elena Ferrante
Fascinating story about the friendship of two women (book starts when they are young girls) growing up in Naples, Italy in the 1950s and 60s. Quite a cast of characters who help to understand what life was like growing up in a lower income community during that time, the role of women, how education was viewed - especially for girls, the structure of the family, etc.
Lucinda
The Big Spenders by Lucius Beebe
THE BIG SPENDERS offers fascinating tales and insights into the lives (and spending habits!) of the magnates of the Gilded Age. The stories are of a time when these inventive businessmen took a chance in industry and amassed enormous fortunes in doing so. The book details their lives of lavish living, lavish spending and world travel that the rest of the citizenry of the time could only imagine. It was fascinating to read of the details of the lives of these wealthy, sometimes quirky individuals.
LINDA
Isn't She Lovely? by Bobby Hutchinson
WOW, this is one of the many AWESOME books I've read this year and I've read 218 books so far! I am a true meat and potatoes gal, but I'd try a few of Bella's vegan recipes. Poor Bella Donovan was a preacher's daughter and had taken care of the farm and her younger siblings since she was five! She moved far away and was co-owner of a vegan restaurant as well as trying out new recipes for a cookbook she planned to publish if the baby would just quit crying! She had planned to never wed nor have babies as she had done that with her siblings and she was content with it! I loved Jake for doing the right thing by marrying Carol when she got pregnant with his baby and even though she wanted to have an abortion.
Alina
The Ninth Hour by Alice McDermott
From the moment that I started reading the book, it was evident that the author is a gifted writer.
The book was engrossing from the word go. Moreover, the prose was very elegant. This is the first book that I have read written by Ms. McDermott and it, definitely, won't be the last.
Pauline
Less Than Treason by Dana Stabenow
I was afraid Dana Stabenow was not going to continue this series, but thankfully she has with this satisfying latest entry. Besides the characters and the plot which keep one reading, the Alaska setting is always fascinating to me, tempting me to fly off to spend a year or two in the wild, which would almost certainly kill me. But that's what good books can do.
Karen
The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead
This is a fabulous read and perfect for book clubs.
NANCY
Love and Other Consolation Prizes by Jamie Ford
I loved HOTEL ON THE CORNER OF BITTER AND SWEET. I had hoped his next book, a long time coming, would be as good. I was disappointed. The story of Ernest Young, a young Chinese immigrant who is auctioned off at the Seattle World Fair in 1908 gives fascinating insights into what life and the city were like then. And the jumping ahead in time works, but not Gracious’s returning lucidity, which seems like a real stretch and the only way he could come up with to keep the story moving.
Vera
The Bride Who Got Lucky by Janna MacGregor
A nice historical romance. Emma is not really looking to fall in love. But she can get herself into places that the Duke needs to help her out of. Could this lead to more than friends? Those kisses are sure powerful.
Vera
Final Girls by Riley Sager
This is one novel that will keep the reader on edge. Each girl is the only one left from a horrible mass murder. Each dealing with it in own way. Each has lots to try to forget. One can't remember what happened. But years later it comes back, but it's hard for her to believe.
Lori
All the Ugly and Wonderful Things by Bryn Greenwood
Beautiful story of innocent love between a young girl with meth addicted parents and a young man who works for her father.
norene
Lyndon Johnson and the American Dream by Doris Kearns Goodwin
Wonderful.
Heather
The Address by Fiona Davis
Had high expectations for this book. However, found the story to be far-fetched. Highly suggested - read the Author's Note at the end of the book prior to reading.
Chris
The Late Show by Michael Connelly
I really like the Harry Bosch series but found this character unrelatable. Disturbing book. Don't recommend.
Nancy
Perfectly Undone by Jamie Raintree
Amazing book where the main character discovers her past and future. She fulfills her life.
Marcia
The Letter by Kathryn Hughes
A story of abuse concerning two women, one abused by her husband, and one abused by her father. It's also about the children they lost and the healing that came about because of a lost letter. A story that kept my interest.
Pauline
The Award by Danielle Steel
This most gifted storyteller gives us an intriguing tale of 1940 when Germany occupied France.
A sixteen-year-old French girl sees her best friend, a Jewish girl, and her family being taken away for deportation and unknown fate. This leads her to join the French Resistance and deliver Jewish children to safety. It is not till she is a 95-year-old grandmother that her granddaughter is able to
get her recognized for her brave war-time acts, thus "The Award".
Sue
The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead
Brilliant in every way - story construction, character development and consistency of plot.
Jayme
Beneath a Scarlet Sky by Mark Sullivan
Pino Lella's story of his events during WWII in Milan and Northern Italy are fascinating and compelling. This "based on a true story" historical fiction book details the last two years of WWII in northern Italy, a place that has been neglected in many WWII books. It is worth reading for its account of key events and people who were responsible for helping to save countless lives. I found particularly interesting the role that the Catholic Church played in directing events and outcomes of the last years of the war. Highly recommend.
Allison
His Last Letter by Jeane Westin
Great story about Elizabeth I of England.
Beth
The Best American Short Stories of 2013 by Elizabeth Strout and Heidi Pitlor
Some of the stories were very thought-provoking. All were good.
Ruth
Miracle in the Andes by Nando Parrado
Amazing account of survival in the Andes.
LEE
The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead
A wonderful book. I learned so much about the dark days of slavery in our country. The protagonist has many adventures and misadventures, but her struggle to survive is extraordinary and extremely inspiring. Hard to put the book down once you get past the initial gruesome horrors of slavery.
Sandy
The History of Bees by Maja Lunde
I won this book in a contest on the internet and found it very good. It is told by three different people in three different eras and they all have something to do with the history of bees. I can see why it is an international bestseller.
Michelle
The Heart's Invisible Furies by John Boyne
I absolutely loved this book from the first sentence to the last. Cyril is a character I will not soon forget. It gave me insight into a world I don't know very well, and after reading, I have even more respect for. It covered so many facets of what is was like to be homosexual throughout many decades in Ireland as well as Amsterdam and New York City and was truly eye-opening. I couldn't stop reading, wanted more and more, and even as I came to the end of this delightfully massive book, I didn't want it to end. I wish I could pull the sense of humor from this book and slap the world with it. The world could learn a lot from it. It will be hard to pick up another book after reading this one. Time to re-shuffle my Top 1.
Dianne
Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate
I just couldn't put this book down. I just can not imagine the horrors the children and the original parents lived through having their children “stolen” from them. Things we just didn’t know happened in our own backyards. This is a must-read.
Jayme
This is How You Lose Her by Junot Diaz
I read this book because I loved THE BRIEF WONDROUS LIFE OF OSCAR WAO. I don't think THIS IS HOW YOU LOSE HER is for everyone. There is a lot of offensive language and imagery that may be difficult for some people to get past, but it is an interesting glimpse and take on how different cultures collide.
LINDA
Too Hot to Handle by Robin Kaye
I loved the story of Annabelle and Mike! After Dr. Mike Flynn's meeting Annabelle at her sister's wedding, too much champagne led them to her bed and Mike is sure that she's the one. I laughed at Annabelle thinking that Mike was a dead-ringer for her deceased fiance when she awoke, or maybe it was his ghost, but he was very much alive and he showed things that knocked her socks as they made love, and he had moves that Chip certainly didn't know! In the end TOO HOT TO HANDLE is one steamy read.
Suzy
Hidden Figures by Margot Lee Shetterly
I know some readers will disagree with a 5 star rating for this book, but I have multiple reasons why I think this book is worthy of such a high rating. The author did a superior job at teaching us, entertaining us, educating us, and rewarding us for our efforts to read her fascinating story of the women who were a large portion of the backbone of the precursor to NASA, then NASA itself. Using spot-on intelligent language to explain the work of (read it yourself and learn their names!), I was drawn into a vastly different book from that which I had expected. The basic story is unvarnished and amazing. The women are moving and role models. The author has a gift. Yes, it's not your average beach read, but who would want that here?
Lois
Underground Airlines by Ben H. Winters
Fascinating story of what could have happened in the U.S.A. if there was no Civil War and slavery continued to exist. It touches on many situations that have relevance for all Americans.
Tessa B C
Love Walked In by Marisa de los Santos
3.5 stars. Cornelia, the “under-achiever” in her family, is the manager of a café. One day a Cary-Grant lookalike walks in and her life changes. This is a chick-lit, romance novel with great heart. The novel is told in alternating points of view: Cornelia, and Grace, an eleven-year-old with a chaotic home life. I loved them both, though I was somewhat incredulous at several plot points.
Liz
Her Father's House by Belva Plain
Donald Wolfe has it all - a brilliant career as a lawyer, a beautiful and pregnant wife, a fantastic apartment. All of a sudden he realizes he has made a mistake with the marriage. After his daughter is born he feels he must take drastic measures, ones that will change not only the rest of his life, but that of his daughter as well.
Kay
The Age of Innocence by Edith Wharton
A classic tale of days gone by!
Elizabeth
Little Boxes: 12 Writers on Television by Caroline Casey (editor)
In this anthology authors reflect on race, beauty, gender, sexuality, and less contentious topics through the prism of television favorites. No show dating back further than the '80s is covered; even though I was a prime target for most of the mentioned programs when they aired, it would have been interesting to see some "classic" TV programming examined this way. Nevertheless, every piece is genuinely thought-provoking. Elena Passarello's "Naive Melody" (concerning the use of music in "Northern Exposure" and the show's influence on her life then and now) may be the most delightful piece of writing I'll read this year.
Laura
The Alice Network by Kate Quinn
Love a book that is based on real people. Just finished this book for book club and we had quite a nice discussion.
Alexandra
China Rich Girlfriend by Kevin Kwan
CHINA RICH GIRLFRIEND is Book Two in a trilogy, written by Kevin Kwan. The first book, CRAZY RICH ASIANS, is soon to be a major motion picture. In this second book, we pick up two years after the first and, if you didn't think things could get any worse, you'd be wrong! Death, poison, betrayal, guilt, self-destruction, Paris shopping sprees, and moral corruption all take place within the backdrop of Chinese and Singaporean high society. There's rich, there's new rich and then there's crazy rich! This book is an easy, fun read that will keep you turning the pages with voyeuristic delight as you watch the various storylines implode and morph over the course of the story. Next stop: Book Three, RICH PEOPLE PROBLEMS.
Sheryl
The Dog Lover Unit: Lessons in Courage from the World's K9 Cops by Rachel Rose
This is a must-read for anyone who loves dogs. Ms. Rose did an awesome job chronicling her five years of ride-alongs with various K-9 Units in France, U.K., Canada and the U.S. I will have to say this has been the best non-fiction or even the best book of the 135 books I've read this year.
LINDA
Synthetic Saints by Jason Rolfe
What an odd but thrilling story about synthetics, what the world termed not human beings that walked among mankind and secretly mass killing humans with a hidden agenda. Alex Hargreaves, a security specialist for the ISA, was charged to find out what happened to Amanda Hayes on a deep space observatory. Once there he couldn't help but remember his dead wife and daughter, and upon entering the station he had to make the toughest decision of his life!
Ilene
Unforgivable Love by Sophfronia Scott
A great historical fiction that is a takeoff of the French classic LES LIASONS DANGEREUSES, but this story takes place in 1947 in Harlem at a time when Jackie Robinson was breaking the color line in major league baseball. The main characters are heiress Mae Malveaux who rules society, and Valiant Jackson who also gets what he wants and he wants Mae. But to win her affection he has to woo her young niece Cecily who has her eye on Sam. But Cecily's mother wants her to marry Frank Washington who she thinks will be a better match. But the plot thickens because Valiant is really in love with Elizabeth who is married. What to do? You won't believe the ending, but I loved every minute.
Phyllis
The Right Side by Spencer Quinn
Having long been a fan of Quinn's Chet and Bernie series, I was skeptical about his new book. However, it captured my attention and kept it with his new characters, LeAnne Hogan and Goody. LeAnne, a wounded vet struggling with life, certainly shows her flaws but I really came to care what happened to her. Goody, who doesn't appear until much later in the book, becomes her guardian despite LeAnne's wishes. Both became, in their own ways, lovable and interesting. I would enjoy future stories of their journeys together.
Ilene
Next of Kin by James Tucker
This is a story of a very wealthy family whose members are systematically and brutally murdered except for 10-year-old Ben Brook, the "next of kin". The family's global, multi-billion dollar business is owned equally by Ben's father and three uncles, and was started in Germany by Ben's grandfather. Because of disputes among the brothers about the direction of the company, the investigation into the murders leads the police to consider that it might have something to do with control of the company. By eliminating Ben's father, mother and sister, and Ben himself, the three uncles would gain complete control of the business. Only Ben as the only surviving beneficiary of his father's will stands in the way.
Jan
Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng
This is my choice for Best Book of 2017. Ng, in her second book, takes us again into families and the misunderstandings, the secrets, the pains we give each other without meaning to do so. Two families are intertwined in several ways and the level of mistrust and anger toward each other is subtly developed. Social class and our faulty assumptions about each other are presented in many ways. A young girl and her mother are new to a community and become tighter and tighter in many ways with the landlady and her family. Secrets, secrets and discovery of secrets push the reader in so many ways. I dare anyone to guess the ending actions in this book. We have too many diversions. I cried, I rejoiced, I was sad.
Carolann
The Western Star by Craig Johnson
I watched the TV show Longmire first. And now I am reading the books. I love the characters in these books and the landscapes of Wyoming, which I hope to see one day.
Tessa B C
Something Rotten by Jasper Fforde
Book Four in the Thursday Next fantasy/sci-fi “literary detective” series. What I most enjoy about this series is Fforde’s vivid imagination and all the literary references. The plots are completely unrealistic, but that’s part of the fun.
Bonnie
So We Read On by Maureen Corrigan
Wonderful book about THE GREAT GATSBY and what makes it, arguably, the great American novel. I've read GATSBY at least 5 times and consider it the best, so this is the book for me. If you disagree, you may not give it 5 stars.
Ilene
The Girl Before by J. P. Delaney
This is a story about two girls whose lives were influenced by a house rented from Edward Monkford, an eccentric but charming architect. Emma is the "girl before" and Jane is the current occupant of the house. They had to complete extensive questionnaires, subject themselves to interviews with him and promise to live by his rules, including periodic inspections. As outrageous as this was, they agreed to these requirements because they looked at it as an escape from personal tragedies. Emma had been burglarized and Jane had endured a still birth. Consequently, both girls were vulnerable to Monkford's charms as he worked himself into their lives and manipulated them. While reading, it was fascinating to compare their parallel paths.
LINDA
Foolproof (Darcy Walker Mystery Book 5) by A. J. Lape
OMG, I can't believe I missed Darcy's actions in the first four books! Darcy had me laughing and crying throughout her adventure! As a senior in high school, she had the knack of trouble finding her with bodies, a bombed out neighborhood and this book was the mother of all headaches for her dad, her boyfriend, and her brohood!! I am sorry that I missed the quirky blonde's earlier escapes.
Robin
Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman
Of the books I've read this year, this one is my favorite. Eleanor's story of her past, making her the interesting person she is today, is given to the reader in small doses, which makes it all the more intriguing. This character has stayed with me - I miss Eleanor very much. Highly recommend this book!
Jane
These Healing Hills by Ann H. Gabhart
A story of God's direction for both Francine and Ben. Francine had dreams of marrying Seth when he returned from war. But he found someone else. So Francine takes training to become a midwife and goes to Appalachian Mountains. Ben comes home from the war and finds Francine lost on her rounds to see patients. The mountains, creeks, moonshiners in hill, animals and more set during the World War, five years before I was born. I'd be like Francine getting lost. An adventure for sure. You can pick up any Ann Gabhart book and find an adventure.
Jane
Cowboy Christmas Guardian by Dana Mentink
Danger abounds when Shelly Arroyo arrives in Gold Country to do a job for her uncle. Her life is constantly in danger. No one wants her to accomplish the work. Barrett comes upon her when she is in danger. Barrett does not like her uncle, but some how he is thrown into her path and he keeps saving her. God's plan to bring forgiveness runs all through the book. It isn't easy, I know. Easy to forgive and not to forget. Through this book I finally able to let go of a lot of hurts and truly forgive what happened. Thanks Dana, because now like Barrett, I have freedom and peace. Of course you get to enjoy Christmas too. But the danger will keep you reading.
Jane
The Mother's Promise by Sally Hepworth
So many things in this book. A single mom raising her daughter with a social anxiety that triggers panic attacks. Fears, rape, death and love. A mother's love to the very end. I've had to struggle to read this book through an eye that had surgery. We all struggle through things. Zoe never knew her father, which was for the best. He finds her and tries to get her. But his wife is her mom's advisor through cancer and because of his abuse, she stops him. Once you get to a certain point you won't be able to lay the book down.
LINDA
Summer on Lovers' Island: A Jewell Cove Novel by Donna Alward
What an enjoyable story! I felt for Lizzy as one careless mistake caused her to leave the big city and take her friend's invitation to go to Jewel Cove, Maine and temporarily take over a friend's practice. I loved that Dr. Josh Collins moved back home after the death of his wife; he is also in pain and tried hard to keep his feelings in check when Lizzie Howard came to town. They both kept their secrets to themselves until a crisis threw them together.
Rena
The Beautiful Mystery by Louise Penny
A hidden monastery, two dozen monks, Gregorian chants - together these may not sound interesting but combined with a murder within the walls of the monastery, a CD of the chants that has become viral but no one has been able to track down its source, are blended by Louise Penny into a novel that is difficult to put down. The chants that are the crucial part of the novel are sung in a way that no one else has been able to do that seem to bring one closer to the Divine. The monks are all there because of their singing ability and then secondary, their ability to perform a function that keeps the monastery functioning. Who killed the prior and why is part of the mystery and added in is the Canadian police force power plays. Superb!
Debbie
The Highwayman by Craig Johnson
THE HIGHWAYMAN by Craig Johnson stands as a spiritual journey for Standing Bear, Walt, and Rosey Wayman. The story ends will little resolution and many questions as to what happened. The story presents a story and asks for the reader to believe the events based on no physical evidence, a parallel to Santa Claus or the Easter Bunny or even God. Bobby Womack, a policeman in Wyoming has been dead decades, but Rosey Wayman believes Bobby contacts her. Standing Bear and Walt meet with Rosey and stand watch for Bobby Womack. Craig Johnson, a master storyteller, weaves other interesting characters into the story. Johnson also provides moments of comic relief with Standing Bear and Walt. The story ends quickly with the reader left to reason.
Debbie
A Wee Murder in My Shop by Fran Stewart
A WEE MURDER IN MY SHOP by Fran Stewart falls under the cozy mystery category, which is nice, but sometimes tiresome. Stewart employs many Scottish words and sayings that the reader does not understand. The fact that a very old ghost stands as one of the main characters fall sadly to oblivion. This is not the tale of THE GHOST AND MRS. MUIR, but a sad attempt to bring history into the novel. Plus, the main character, Peggy Winn, has relatives everywhere---working for her and as best friends. Peggy also has a twin brother who is paralyzed from the waist to his legs. The story does not begin with a murder, but with a buying trip to Scotland for Peggy, as she owns a Scotland-themed shop. The story missed many elements that were exposed.
Donna
The Trust by Ronald H. Balson
A story well written where you get to know and care about the characters. Liam returns to his childhood home in Ireland for the funeral of an uncle that raised him. Liam discovers he's the trustee of his uncle's sealed will. His uncle was murdered and the will isn't to be distributed until the murderer is found. The murderer could be possible heirs or revenge from the past. Family members are gradually being murdered and Liam could be next.
Trezeline
Origin by Dan Brown
The best of all of his books. I really enjoyed it.
LINDA
New Leaf by Catherine Anderson
WOW! I'd always tried to win this author's book, and I was not disappointed with her writing! What an awesome tale. I felt sorry for Taffeta had to go through in order to get her daughter back from her wealthy husband. Taffy had lost everything with his betrayal and she moved to Mystic Creek in Oregon to start over. Lawman, Barney Sterling had seen his fair share of lawless in the big city, but moving to a small town he was bored. The only excitement was Taffeta playing her music too loud that was driving the old men next door batty. Before meeting her, he was drawn by her shadow dancing by the window that had parts of his body hardening. Afterwards, he was shocked when she asked him to marry her.
Francisca E B
The Agony and the Ecstasy by Irving Stone
Stone’s epic historical novel tells the life story of Michelangelo. Additionally, the novel includes much of the politics of the times, from the Medicis in Florence to the various Popes in Rome; it’s a fascinating history of the era. This was a re-read for me, but my rating reflects my original reaction (circa 1965).
Elizabeth
Home by Harlan Coben
Even if you normally prefer character-driven novels, Harlan Coben's novels should be the exception. His are plot-driven, but oh those stories! They're witty without being comedic and so smart you'll wonder how Coben thinks of these things. Best: the beginnings grab you from page one, and the solutions to the mysteries are always a surprise. That describes all of Coben's novels, but especially his Myron Bolitar series. And HOME is a return to this long-neglected series. Win's cousin's son and his friend were kidnapped 10 years ago when they were six years old. One of the boys suddenly appears in London, England. Once again, Myron Bolitar and Win take on criminals, creeps and normal people in extraordinary circumstances.
Annemarie
The Big Bad Wolf: An Alex Cross Thriller by James Patterson
Love, love, love James Patterson. His books keep me on the edge of my seat from page one through the last word in the book.
Matt
G-Man: A Bob Lee Swagger Novel by Stephen Hunter
Another in the Swagger Family saga. This one alternates from the '30s to the present. A large book with minute details about guns and gun parts, it deals with the famous bank robbers of the '30s, especially Pretty Boy Floyd. If you don't know the Swaggers, you should start with the first novel, HOT SPRINGS. I think it is the best of the lot. This one moves slowly until near the end and then takes off.
