This contest period's winners were Lisa W., Vera W. and Yasemin B., who each received a copy of END GAME by David Baldacci and THE MIDNIGHT LINE: A Jack Reacher Novel by Lee Child.
Margaret
I Love to Tell the Story by Susan Barnett Braun
This very talented author has written a memoir about her childhood years growing up in southern Indiana. I grew up in a small town not far from hers and related in many ways to her upbringing and not only because we grew up in similar surroundings but I also had a religious upbringing. I loved the hymns at the beginning of each chapter because they set the tone for the message Susan wrote about. It was obvious how important faith and family were and still are in her life. Susan writes in such a way that any age would enjoy this book. I hope she will continue writing about her life and that she starts where this charming book left off. I plan to read more of her books. Highly recommend this book with 5 very bright stars!
Debbie
Last Kiss by Luanne Rice
As I read stories around the United States, I find some enjoyable reading, and some so-so reading. This mystery set in Connecticut falls under the so-so reading. The story centers on young love and old love with a mushy ending. A young eighteen-year-old boy, Charlie, dies a brutal killing. Charlie's mother old boyfriend arrives to learn what happened. The discovery stuns the reader and the people involved. Luanne Rice weaves witchcraft and music into the story, but each does not reach the ultimate goal of entertaining. Not a series that captured my longing for more books.
Bonnie
American Radical: Inside the World of an Undercover Muslim FBI Agent by Tamer Elnoury
Riveting true story of Elnoury, an alias, as he befriends radicals and infiltrates a terrorist group before helping bring them to justice.
Amy
Need to Know by Karen Cleveland
Great page-turner, kept me guessing until the end. Feels very topical with all the focus on Russia right now.
Jennie
Nightingale Tales by Lynn Dow
Humorous biograghical stories about "life as a nurse".
Ruth
Mr. Penumbra's 24-Hour Book Store by Robin Sloan
Delightful story of nighttime activities at a book store...and other places.
Kathy
The Silkworm by Robert Galbraith
Second Cormoran Strike novel investigating a disappearance of an author which turns into a murder with many oddball characters suspected.
Nancy
The Rooster Bar by John Grisham
This is a book with bad guys and really bad guys. There are no good guys, at least in the eyes of the law. It’s an eye-opener about for-profit law schools that probably relates to business schools as well. It’s a sorry situation for most of these graduates. I’ve found Grisham’s past books to be believable as far as legal details went. This one seems absurd in terms of class action suit settlements, setting up and transferring money to offshore accounts and bribery in foreign countries. I was disappointed in the book. Sorry.
Pauline
Twelve Slays of Christmas by Jacqueline Frost
This debut mystery in A Christmas Tree Farm series is a delightful cozy. Holly returns to her quaint historic hometown, Mistletoe, Maine, to help her parents with the business. The beautiful illustrated cover sets the mood till the murder of the very unpopular President of the Historical Society. Because her father is a suspect Holly gets involved in solving the murder. The New England characters are well developed and made me wish I were back home. I also liked that Holly and the victim have cats, Cindy Lou Who and Whiskers. I do hope the author continues the series. I believe the reader would enjoy reading her Kitty Coulture mysteries written as Julie Chase.
Jean
Best Day Ever by Kaira Rouda
Interesting start to the story - all from husband's point of view, then switching to wife. I guessed at the "why" of the change and was gratified that I was correct. Good, interesting read.
Susan
Manhattan Beach by Jennifer Ryan
Extremely well-written period piece. I think both men and women would like thus book.
TM
Look Behind You by Iris Johansen and Roy Johansen
The fifth Kendra Michaels, but it did very well as a stand-alone. I've never read this series before but I have to find the back novels now! References to past scenarios and character points make me curious to check out the rest of the series, but I never felt like I was lacking information to complete the read. The authors give enough details to fill in the story but not so much time on the "procedural" parts that I lost the human aspect (some series get lost in the tech/shop talk). It had well-developed characters that I could actually believe exist - good, bad, and ugly. It kept me guessing until the very end! I was pinning it on someone else! A very good read.
TM
Flowers of Anti-Martyrdom (McSweeney's Poetry Series) by Dorian Geisler
Ouch, I think my inner child kicked my shin with this read! Well, my "Boredom Detector" didn't beep. I'm not sure if this poetry was actually justified but I am positive that Dorian Geisler has a pet iguana. (yes, an inside reference: read the damn book!)
Linda
Did You Ever Have a Family by Bill Clegg
Written in a style similar to THE GIRL ON THE TRAIN. I read this book based on Bookreporter.com's note that the storyline was similar to Anna Quindlen's EVERY LAST ONE. Clegg develops several characters, chapter by chapter, to weave together this story of two women and their children, and their own identities. Took me several chapters to really begin to get the story and I struggled a bit to keep track of all the characters. The writing intrigued me enough to keep reading. In the end, it ALL comes together but for one point for me. What did the woman demanding the $700 have to do at all with Lydia and the story? Even in the end, I did not see the relevance.
Allison
His Last Letter by Jeane Westin
Great story about Elizabeth I of England.
Alice
The Likeness by Tana French
Very compelling but it could have told the story in fewer pages and kept the suspense.
Joanne
News of the World by Paulette Jiles
Excellent book. Gives insight into life in the west in that period of time. I learned much about the area and the life of the people. We do not realize the hardships and danger people underwent to live in the west in that era. Thanks for the great book and understanding of the life. We are using it for a book club discussion and already have many comments on it.
Karen
The Cuban Affair by Nelson DeMille
Enjoyed the intrigue of the plot - and the descriptions of Cuba. I didn't know how backward Cuba is.
Suzanne
The Woman on the Orient Express by Lindsay Jane Ashford
A fictional story about Agatha Christie. She is taking the Orient Express to get away from a recent divorce. It was a very pleasant, enjoyable book with three interesting women including Agatha who was traveling under a different name. Just was an enjoyable journey with much happening along the way. I highly recommend it.
Carol
IQ by Joe Ide
I wanted to read this book prior to the second in the series, and I was hooked. This is an altogether new crime detective set in South LA. Using his mind rather than the usual brawn, it draws the reader in until the last page.
Mary Jean
Seven Days of Us by Francesca Hornak
Terrific, funny, poignant wonderful story of a family quarantined over Christmas because a daughter has returned from Africa after treating an epidemic.
Carolann
The Third Nero: A Flavia Albia Novel by Lindsey Davis
I love these books. I have read all of her books set in the early days of Rome. And now the books have a woman investigator as Flavia Albia is the adopted daughter of Marcus Didius Falco, who was the previous investigator, and Helena Justina. Flavia has just gotten married, but her new husband was struck by lightening on their wedding day and until he recovers she needs to work because they need they income. Unfortunately, she is hired by a palace spy...
norene
The Longest Ride by Nicholas Sparks
Best book I've read in a long time.
Mike
Best Day Ever by Kaira Rouda
I love finding new authors. I won this book from Bookreporter.com and can't wait to read the author's first book.
Rosemary
Al Franken, Lion of the Senate by Al Franken
While using his well-known humor, this former writer for Saturday Night Live and comedian describes why he ran for the U.S. Senate, the nastiness of campaigning in today's world and the breakdown of civilities in modern day politics. Whether you're a Republican, a Democrat or an Independent, this book will give you something to think about politics in America today. If you're apolitical, wake up and see what's happening to our system of government.
Betty
One Damned Thing After Another by Jodi Taylor
A fun time-travel with an inordinate amount of snark. The first of a series. I will be reading the next one soon.
Cheryle
A Wedding in Haiti by Julia Alvarez
I read this for the monthly bookclub selection that I attend at my local library. While I would not have picked this, it was an interesting read from a part of the world I have not read much about. The author promised to attend the wedding of one of her employees in the Dominican Republic. When she found out about it she was tempted not to go as she had other plans at that time, but because of her promise she goes and learns much of the life of her friend. The last half of the book covers the time after the hurricane that devastated much of Haiti. All of the book club members were glad they had read this book.
Cheryle
Stories from Montana's Enduring Frontier by John Clayton
An interesting book of short stories previously published in magazines of the area. The author has lived in the state for many years as a transplant from Massachusetts. He has fallen in love with the state and in this book looks at the history of some of the area and how it affects the state today.
Susan
The Good American by Alex George
Family saga about a German man and his wife who come to America to start a new life in the 1900s.
Cheryle
On to Richmond by Ginny Dye
This is the second in a series of novels set in the Civil War and each taking one year of the time period. A friend recommended this series to me and I am enjoying it. The main character is a young woman who remains at her father's plantation while he is in Richmond as a government official after the declaration of war. She had been educated in Philadelphia and wanted to learn to become a doctor, but at the death of her mother she returns to the south. She is strong-willed and does not agree with her father's views of slavery. She releases several of their slaves and enables them to escape using the underground railroad.
Cheryle
Guilt by Association by Marcia Clark
The author is the lawyer made famous several years ago in the O.J. Simpson trial. She turns her law knowledge into a very interesting book. The years in the practice of law make for excellent reading. I have been wanting to read her books for some time and finally am able to cross one off my TBR list.
Elaine
A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles
Have read this book twice, once for my own enjoyment and a second time to present it to my book club. Loved it even more the second time. Towles’ use of language is magnificent and the story of Count Rostov, an aristocrat declared a non-person, and imprisoned for life by the Bolsheviks in the attic of the Hotel Metropol in Moscow is mesmerizing. He creates a fulfilling life by befriending the staff, eventually joining them as head waiter. His experiences with Anna, a young guest, is hilarious and then very meaningful when she leaves her young daughter for him to raise as she disappears in Siberia.
Donna
Best Day Ever by Kaira Rouda
I dove into this book and couldn't put it down. Part of it is because it takes place in an area I'm familiar with. I liked the way it flowed throughout a single day. Paul and Mia have plans to have the best day ever at their cottage at Lakeside, a summer community in Ohio. They each have a different idea of how this day will end.
Tessa B C
The Serpent's Tale by Ariana Franklin
3.5 stars. Book Two in the series. There are several things I like about this series, starting with Adelia Aguilar – a strong, independent, resilient, and resourceful heroine. Franklin does a lot of research and it shows in the way she sets the tone and describes the landscape and relationships in 12th century England. The plot is intricate, and had more than one surprise for the reader.
Christine
Otherworld by Jason Segel and Kirsten Miller
I received an ARC of this book for review purposes. This is a YA novel but I feel it is suitable for older adults as well. I really enjoyed it! It had lots of action and excitement; I would not be surprised if it was made into a movie. My only complaint is that I have to wait until an entire year for the next volume in the series to be released.
Robert
Attack on Nantucket by Thad Dupper
A story one never expects to be possible. An attack on the President while on vacation here in the United States. I found the story surprisingly realistic and entirely possible and a fun read.
shelly
A Moment at Christmas by Jennifer Faye
Christmas is usually the happiest time of the year especially for residents of Whistle Stop. This year the town is going all out with new development/organizing special activities during the holidays. Unfortunately, Christian Danser hates this time of year since it reminds him of his wife's death. The problem is Molly, his young daughter, would love to have a happy and merry Christmas, but her dad has practically ignored the holidays since her mom died. Noelle Forrester is used to life not going as planned but when she loses her job less than a month before the holidays she is worried she might be evicted and not have a place for her and her son, Sammy, the true love of her life to live.
Phyllis
Fever by Deon Meyer
FEVER is a very realistic portrayal of a post-apocalyptic world after a fever pandemic wipes out most of humanity. It’s set in South Africa and revolves around a father and son and the father’s vision of reestablishing a viable community. It shows how people gravitate to different groups – some good, some bad – to survive. It is a coming-of-age story of Nico, the son. FEVER is very engaging and I would enjoy a sequel to it. I received a free Kindle edition of the book.
Karen
The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead
A great read for a book club. Very thought-provoking.
Shelley
Wishtree by Katherine Applegate
A wonderful, short novel about friendship, community, and acceptance. WISHTREE is told from the perspective of Red, a red oak tree, who is 216 years old. For many years, every May 1st, people leave notes/wishes on Red's branches. Even as Red's end is near, Red strives to help two children, her neighbors, fulfill one last wish. They, in turn, help her. This story is timely, modern, and beautiful. It would make a great holiday gift!
Lori
Carnegie's Maid by Marie Benedict
I was pleased to get the opportunity to read this book as I hadn’t known much about Carnegie. I found this book very informative about him as well as life then for both immigrants and the wealthy. It was told from the point of view of an Irish immigrant maid which was a great vehicle to convey the story. I also appreciated that, unlike most novels of this type (including her previous book about Einstein’s wife), I wasn’t disillusioned about the “celebrity” after reading the book. I think the author did an excellent job showing what life was like both in the U.S. and Ireland for people in all walks of life. The novelization made it a very easy way to learn history. I recommend this book and think it would be a good choice for book groups.
Elizabeth
Nutshell by Ian McEwan
Ian McEwan writes beautiful sentences, the kind that make you want to reread them because they’re so well crafted. That’s why I’ve read all his books. Some have more interesting plots than others, but all are lovely. NUTSHELL is one of those with an interesting plot in addition to lovely language. (Yes, it’s English but lovely English.) Still, I can’t believe McEwan was brave enough to attempt this. A couple, Trudy and Claude, live in disgusting squalor in a home worth millions of dollars. The home belongs to Trudy’s husband John, who is also Claude’s brother. Trudy is nine months pregnant with John’s baby. As Trudy and Claude devise a plan to murder John, the baby is listening.
Lynn W
Democracy: Stories from the Long Road to Freedom by Condoleezza Rice
Ms. Rice draws lessons from countries around the world struggling for democracy. From Russia, Poland, Ukraine, Kenya, Columbia, and the Middle East, no transition to democracy is the same because every country begins in a different place. Most suffer false starts, some eventually get it right; more than half of all countries qualify as democracies. Insightful, enlightening, even entertaining in places. A good read.
Tessa B C
Final Jeopardy by Linda Fairstein
Linda Fairstein mined her own experience as a top prosecutor in New York’s Sex Crimes Unit for this debut thriller, starring NYC prosecutor Alexandra Cooper. This may be set in Amish country, but it is NOT a cozy mystery. It’s a fast-paced mystery with plenty of suspects, interesting plot twists, a likeable main character, and some complicated relationships. I’ll definitely read more of this series.
Francisca E B
Mr. Ives' Christmas by Oscar Hijuelos
This Pulitzer finalist (1996) is a lovely, contemplative novel – a character study and philosophical exploration of one man’s search for spiritual peace. Hijuelos paints a picture of a gentle man, with a quiet strength born of his circumstances, and of the influences of both the Church and his adoptive father. It is through them that he learns to love and to endure. I’ll be thinking about this gem for a long time, and I’m certain I’ll re-read it.
Deb
Best Day Ever by Kaira Rouda
The scariest bit about the book is that it could happen and has happened in real life. You have to keep reading to peel back all the layers to figure out the truth. And most important, you can't take everything at face value. Read between the lines.
Becky
Eternal Life by Dara Horn
So – was this a good book? It asks so many questions and doesn’t give many answers. The clear take away is: Be careful what you ask for – you might get it! What would it be like to never die? To always return as an eighteen-year-old when one “life” is ended? What if this was punishment for sin? How many times can a person reinvent themselves and adapt to changing values, science, language, culture, etc, etc. Those are some of the questions this novel tries to answer. Rachel, a complex character born in Jerusalem 2000 years ago, lives in the pages of this book for centuries as does her co-sinner and lover.
Bob
City of Dreams by William Martin
Martin spins another web of action and intrigue based on historical inputs. Based on the financing of the United States after the Revolutionary War, the tail of bonds issued by the fledgling government to finance the war leads Fallon and his fiancee Elizabeth on a journey through the history of New York City as they seek to find a box of the 1780 bonds before others can find them. As usual, Martin keeps the readers interest at a high level by a mix of history, action, and intrigue and a grand mix of villains. Wonderful read.
LINDA
Club Medicine by Jack Kinsley
Who's running Crystal Heights? Travis Martin had beat his addiction and went on to build a rehab facility for addicts with an expensive treatment center. I LOVED this book from an unknown to me author who had me HOOKED by the end of the first chapter, and the last few chapters had me RAPIDLY reading as I read it to my husband who was just as caught up as I was! ENCORE, Mr. Kinsley!!
Patti
Christmas Bells by Jennifer Chiaverini
A heartfelt story of Longfellow's family in 1863 based on his poem.
Donna
Beneath a Scarlet Sky by Mark Sullivan
If you appreciate WWII stories, you will love the true story of the Lella family’s bravery during WWII in Milan, Italy, particularly that of the teenage sons. You experience the loyalties, the atrocities, the dreams of young love and the despair of death at the hands of fascists and Nazi soldiers. Pino Lella states at the end of the book “Life is change, constant change and unless we are lucky enough to find the comedy in it, change is nearly always drama, if not a tragedy.”
norene
The Longest Ride by Nicholas Sparks
I loved this book!
Gil
Unforgivable Love by Sophfronia Scott
Valiant Jackson and Mae Malveaux are two despicable people who interfere and influence the lives of others for their own amusement in a story that takes place in 1947 in Harlem when Jackie Robinson was breaking the color barrier in professional baseball. On a bet with Mae, Val tries to seduce Elizabeth, an attractive, respectable church-going woman who has an inattentive husband. Mae also challenges Val to go after young Cecily for the sole purpose of "spoiling" her for Frank, an older but wealthy man, planning to marry Cecily in a marriage being arranged by her mother Gladys. Did all go according to plan? Read it and find out. I liked the book - it was compelling and easy to read.
Sheryl
Everybody's Son by Thrity Umrigar
My book club discussed this enjoyable book about a biracial child who comes to live with a white judge and his wife in an affluent neighborhood. We had a lively discussion regarding race, power, morals and ambition. This emotional novel is the first non-Indian-themed book by a wonderful Indian author we've read and reviewed previously.
Gina
The Wife Between Us by Greer Hendricks and Sarah Pekkanen
I really enjoyed this book - I read it in one day! On the surface it seems to be a book about a woman stalking her ex-husbands new fiancé. But keep reading. Just when you think you know what is happening, a new twist occurs and you are back to being mystified. The main character was frustrating at times but develops into a person you would love to have as your friend. This book will make you start to wonder about your friends' relationships and what is happening behind closed doors. I thought it dragged a bit in the middle (or maybe I am impatient?) so I couldn’t give it a 5.
Shirley
The Western Star by Craig Johnson
On the plus side, it is a Longmire story and includes many of our favorite characters from the series, but otherwise it seemed to be lacking in substance and just a set-up for one or more books to follow. I am tired of those books told partly in flashbacks and this appears to be two separate but related stories confusingly alternated, but we won't even be sure of the cliff-hanger ending until the next book?? THE WESTERN STAR is an obsolete train and the author tells us more about this subject than I ever wanted to know, but he does have some interesting material on the housing and treatment of mental patients.
Francisca E B
Into the Beautiful North by Luis Alberto Urrea
3.5 stars.This is a quest novel, a coming-of-age story, and a road trip adventure, populated by one of the most eclectic cast of characters in literature. I loved Nayeli, whose smile is like the sunrise. She’s honest, fierce, loyal to her friends, and determined to succeed in her mission. The novel is translated from Spanish to English, but still includes much Spanish and even some “Spanglish.” This may be challenging for readers who don’t speak Spanish.
Marilyn
Hidden Figures by Margot Lee Shetterly
An enlightening account of the women who truly made the space program as safe as possible; and to everyone's amazement, they were women of color!
LINDA
Destiny's Touch (The Complex Book 0) by Jane Hinchey
WOW, I truly enjoyed this book and read so fast it was over in a blink of an eye! Emilea tried so hard to please her dad, but after her mom died when she was just a child it seemed that she could do no right, while her little brother was her dad's favorite. As a child, she hurt with every vengeful word he uttered at her. I was proud that Emilea learned martial arts to depend herself against her dad's insistence that she quit. Then her little brother was caught with drugs, but SHE had to pay the price by serving at the Complex, a gilded prison! I liked Maddax from the start as he refused to fight Emilea. He couldn't explain the instant attraction that he felt only that he wanted to see her again.
Deb
Best Day Ever by Kaira Rouda
This book. OMG! I have never seen a more narcissistic, pompous ass in my life. Paul Strom is one major asshole. There were a few times when I just wanted to throw the book and pretend it was him. However, I read on. I just could not believe the things that were coming out of his mouth. And, I couldn't tell which direction this was going. That made it very hard to guess at what was coming. Although the closer I got to the ending, I could see where it was heading.
Although this guy kept pissing me off and had me shaking my head, I was glad that I stuck with it. It just made the ending that much sweeter. Thanks to Harlequin, Graydon House and NetGalley for providing me with a free e-galley.
Jeanne
"...And Ladies of the Club" by Helen Hooven Santmyer
This out-of-print book of 1179 pages is an accurate portrayal of 60 years (1868-1932) of American history with a fictional story embedded within the narrative. The theme is progress through the decades (medical, transportation, business, race relations, women's rights). A woman's literary society provides the backdrop, and woven into the story are local and national politics, economic policy, cultural conflicts among religions, technological advances, and social customs. The author describes in detail the inter-relationships and interactions among a large cast of characters within several families and spread over multiple generations. She fully develops each of the major players, and she does not rush the storyline. I loved this book.
Debbie
The Girl from Venice by Martin Cruz Smith
An overabundance of WWII stories covers the shelves, still many novels pass muster and entertain the reader. THE GIRL FROM VENICE twists the story of a Jewish girl adrift in Italy during the last days of WWII. While fishing, Cenzo discovers Giulia. Cenzo must now hide Giulia and find someone to take her to safety as the Germans are herding Jews and killing them. Martin Cruz Smith captures the beauty of the sea, the fish, and the art of fishing in this story of love. Many authors concentrate on the hardships of the war and the terrible events that happen, but Smith glides over all the tragedies. Of course, the jealousy among brothers permeates the story, but in the end, Cenzo follows his heart and conscience.
Debbie
A Crime of Passion by Ellie Alexander
I seem to gravitate to cozy mysteries. A CRIME OF PASSION FRUIT fits that bill. The story does not display a graphic murder scene. Juliet Capshaw and her mother, Helen, run Torte, a bakery in Oregon. In her past life, Jules worked on various cruise ships as a pastry chef. Now her estranged husband, Carlos, has asked for Jules assistance for a few days on the cruise ship he works. As a push to get Jules to agree, Juliet’s mother and her mother’s boyfriend, the Professor, will be given a free cruise. Jules, Helen, and the Professor, all board the ship in hopes of fun and relaxation, but a death of a young woman ends that dream. Ellie Alexander provides a detailed explanation of the life of the employees on a cruise ship and the lavish food.
Sheryl
Bonfire by Krysten Ritter
Environmental attorney Abby Williams goes back to her hometown of Barrens, Indiana to follow up on complaints regarding the water supply. When she left Barrens to go to university she had no intention to ever returning. Too many bad memories that she's left plus she's not quite strong enough for what she finds when she returns. This is one of those books that when you start you can't put down. This is a fantastic debut - Ms. Ritter knocked her debut right out of the park. I was mesmerized by the plot, plus the sub-plots regarding Abby's past that she's been running from. She doesn't really trust her past feelings in high school; she was always the geeky girl who was on the fringe of the mean girls.
Sheryl
Murder Over Mochas (A Java Jive Mystery #5) by Caroline Fardig
I've been fortunate to start at the at the beginning Ms. Fardig's Java Jive coffeehouse series and watched the characters come into their own. I really like the way she's taking this group of friends. I was in for some surprises and I hope to keep reading more about Juliet, Pete, and the crew. Juliet ends up coming back to Pete's coffee house after her cafe folds and she finds herself finally getting it together when she looks up and find the person who is reasonable for her ruined cafe standing in front of her. After she recovers from seeing him after a year, he asks her for her help. What more could happen to her?
Carol
Our Souls at Night by Kent Haruf
I saw that this was to be made into a movie with Jane Fonda and Robert Redford, and a friend of mine said it was a quick read, and she thought it brought up some interesting questions. After reading it I couldn't see it being made into a movie.
Maria
Who Am I If You're Not You? by Lynn Thorne
This is an incredible (true) story about love beyond the boundaries of gender. Our book club read this and we were fascinated. It is written by a former reporter, but she is able to evoke such deep connections to the people who the book is about. I very quickly became enthralled with the main characters and was sad to see the story end. I guess that is among the highest praise that can be offered for a nonfiction story!
Sandra
Small Great Things by Jodi Picoult
A very powerful book about the racial division that still exists today. Couldn’t put it down. Some parts hard to read, but worth it.
Trez
The Rooster Bar by John Grisham
Not as exciting as most of his books, but an interesting read.
Jan
Bluebird, Bluebird by Attica Locke
Add my name to the long list of reviewers praising this book. It is on my list of Best in 2017. A black Texas Ranger has been put on leave because of his involvement with a friend who was threatened by a white supremacist. While on leave, he gets a tip from a friend in the FBI about the murder of a visiting black man in backwoods Texas. He goes there only to discover that a second body has been found in the river. The complex plot, the vivid descriptions of people and places, the pain of the man who wants to right all wrongs are all what make this a wonderful book. Book groups will love this book because there is so much to discuss, so many places to differ and perhaps understand each other more. A prize-winner.
Nancy
The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein
Probably the best dog book ever, besides MARLEY AND ME. We were talking about pets at a recent book club meeting, and this title came up. You'll laugh and cry, even if you've never owned a dog. Get the Kleenex ready.
Sharon
Love and Other Consolation Prizes by Jamie Ford
Years after slavery was abolished in the United States, human trafficking (slavery) was still being practiced on the West Coast as Asians--mostly children were being brought over and sold in one way or another. Ford's story, fiction based on historical facts, gives insight into the Tenderloin of Seattle in the early 20th century. A compelling, sad and beautiful story of survivors, love, loss, and families that did not fit the mold.
Bill
The Rooster Bar by John Grisham
This in another offbeat Grisham title in the same vein as CAMINO ISLAND. Lawyers are involved -- in The Rooster Bar they are law students in their last term. A devastating event takes place impacting three close law students, their individual massive student debt leaves each of them deeply depressed, they perpetrate an ingenious fraud on the court, and then they try to stay alive and out of jail. All standard Grisham ingredients that when mixed properly serve up a terrific story.
Susan
The Last Ballad by Wiley Cash
Did not like the switchback with characters.
Thomas
Behind Closed Doors by B. A. Paris
I enjoyed reading this book very much.
Kay
The Age of Innocence by Edith Wharton
This Pulitzer prize winner takes us back to a different era in New York City.
Sandy
A Lowcountry Wedding by Mary Alice Monroe
Several times I put this one down because I was getting bored, but always picked it back up and I am glad I did. It was entertaining and enjoyable to read, but I couldn't give it more than 3 stars.
Donna
A Column of Fire by Ken Follett
Great read. Historical fiction. Again Follett kept me involved with characters and story.
Sherri
The Forgotten Recipe by Amy Clipston
Easy, enjoyable read that starts the Amish Heirloom series. Veronica's fiance Seth dies in a work accident and his best friend was there when it happens. The book deals with their shared grief, but she doesn't know that Jason is Seth's friend when she first meets him, and he is not brave enough to tell her. I found the story telling a bit repetitive and not necessarily "correct" to what I know of the Amish culture. The author does discuss this some in her acknowledgements. I will probably give another book in the series a try.
Ruth
The Rules of Magic by Alice Hoffman
True Alice Hoffman novel -- interesting storyline about one family's history of magic in their life.
Kathy
The Silkworm by Robert Galbraith
Cormoran Strike is hired to find a missing author. Several odd characters in the literary world send him on several wild goose chases and he discovers the author's mutilated body.
Sonnia
Small Great Things by Jodi Picoult
Wow! She does it again. Jodi Picoult gets into the hearts and souls of her characters and takes us right along with her.
Mary
Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate
BEFORE WE WERE YOURS reached into the heart of a young girl, her memories, her love of family and her desire to care for her siblings. As we get to know her, we too are in sympathy with all she had to confront and overcome in her young life. It is so well written and a story the reader will not forget.
Susan
Everything I Never Told You by Celeste Ng
Enjoyed her novel LITTLE FIRES EVERYWHERE a little better, but this is good, too.
Kay
Dead Wake by Erik Larson
A chilling account of the last days of The Lusitania.
Carol
Haunted by James Patterson
The latest in the Michael Bennet series - very good.
Lois
The Train to Warsaw by Gwen Edelman
So interesting to learn how a Jewish couple feel about returning to a country for just a few days, forty years after the Holocaust.
Dorothy
Wrong Place, Wrong Time by Tilia Klebenov Jacobs
I enjoyed reading this novel but thought it was wordy, especially at the beginning.
Donna
Still Life by Louise Penny
This is the first book in the Gamache series and I fell in love with Three Pines and Gamache.
Judy
A Column of Fire by Ken Follett
We are back in the shadow of the cathedral, but, we have moved forward to the time of Elizabeth I, Queen of England. Wanting to serve, our hero becomes one of her counselors and the story moves on. As always, love found and love lost are part of the plot. As with PILLARS OF FIRE and WORLD WITHOUT END, this will be a book you can't put down.
Allison
His Last Letter by Jeane Westin
Great story about Elizabeth I of England.
Geri
Our Souls at Night by Kent Haruf
It was finished just days before Haruf passed. It is a bittersweet true-to-life situations read. It's only 179 pages. I read through it twice and made connections with the different characters' feelings and personalities.
Shelley
Born a Crime by Trevor Noah
Insightful, moving and very funny.
Elizabeth
Black Out by Lisa Unger
Lisa Unger has written some great books and she’s written some stinkers. BLACK OUT is somewhere in between. Ophelia grew up with unloving parents. Her father was mostly absent, both physically and mentally, and her mother seemed too stupid and selfish to be able to love her. As a result, Ophelia became unhinged, mentally ill. And it got worse while she willingly and unwillingly accompanied a murderer through several states. She was traumatized and unable to save herself. Now Ophelia is Annie. She is happily married and has a child. (Speaking of which, both Ophelia/Annie and her mother pick names for their children like most people pick names for their pets. Victory?) Her mental illness, seemingly, continues.
Dorothy
Don't Let Go by Harlan Coben
As with all his books I could not put it down. It had a real surprise ending.
Dorothy
One Perfect Lie by Lisa Scottoline
I'd read this book before but didn't realize it until I was halfway through and couldn't remember how it ended. I enjoyed it just as much as the last time. I don't want to tell you much about it because everything comes as a surprise.
Kathy
The Amateur Marriage by Anne Tyler
I love Anne Tyler's writing. She pulls the reader right into the lives of her characters and we feel like we are right there with them! This book is about a couple who never should have married, as they are a total "mismatch". They struggle through thirty-plus years of marriage, until... This is a good read about "regular" people.
Linda
Destiny of the Republic: A Tale of Madness, Medicine, and the Murder of a President by Candice Millard
I had never known much about James Garfield and was amazed at the wonderful detail Candice Millard presented. Not only that, but her inclusion of so much detail about Alexander Graham Bell and Charles Giteau as well just enhanced the book. Millard is a great writer and I also highly recommend THE RIVER OF DOUBT about Teddy Roosevelt.
Marion
The Atomic Weight of Love by Elizabeth Church
A young student, interested in ornithology, marries her physicist professor in 1944 and moves with him to Los Alamos. Her formal studies have ground to a halt, but on her own she begins to watch crows, discovering their habits, social structures, etc. Meanwhile she has to contend with the mores of the time, the limitations put on the wives as their husbands live the lives to
which they aspire. She has an epiphany when she meets a much younger man, but she realizes their affair cannot endure despite their meeting of the minds. Eventually she can focus on her passion for ornithology, and her desire to assist younger women in following their dreams.
Cheryle
The Other Wes Moore by Wes Moore
A very timely book concerning two men with the same name but with totally different lives. Both start in Baltimore, MD in homes without a father figure. The book examines these two lives and the decisions that are pivotal to their outcomes. One is in prison for life while the author became a Rhodes scholar and has had many good experiences.
Cheryle
The Rooster Bar by John Grisham
This book was very different from most of the books by this author. Three young people are finishing their law school years and are deep in student loan debt. They dream up a scheme to become lawyers without a law degree or passing the bar exam. They are living large until the walls come crashing down.
Cheryle
The Cartel by Don Winslow
A large book as well as heavy in weight physically. Mexican drug trafficking has become a huge problem with millions of dollars of product shipping to the U.S. and other countries. This author has tackled the issue with a huge volume in novel form, highlighting the problem in Mexico.
Glenn
No Middle Name by Lee Child
Excellent short story compilation of Jack Reacher adventures from his formative years to current events. These stories were scattered in several forms but finally compiled into one volume. An excellent read for first-time fans and a joy for long-time fans. Highly recommended.
Linda
The Blackbird Season by Kate Moretti
Hundreds of starlings fell from the sky and everyone is wondering why. Is it an omen of some kind? Then a beloved teacher and baseball coach is accused of inappropriate behavior with a female student. Rumors start flying and his reputation is in tatters although no proof of any wrongdoing is found. His wife doesn’t know whether to believe him or not. She is dealing with their autistic son and can’t deal with this. Lots of complex characters. After reading THE VANISHING YEAR I was really looking forward to this book but was disappointed. Which character did I like the least - Nate, the dedicated teacher who got too involved with one of his students, or his wife Alecia who resents him for his job yet refuses to put son in special school?
Linda
The Thing About Love by Julie James
Two highly competitive people meet at the FBI Academy and each tries to outdo the other. John Shepherd is a former Army Ranger and excels at PT and firearms. Jessica Harlow is a former attorney and excels at academics. They bicker back and forth throughout the whole 21 weeks of training. Based in Chicago, John is called into his supervisor’s office and told of a new undercover investigation that he is assigned to. Oh, and he will have a new partner. In walks Jessica. They can do this, can’t they? They are both professionals and can’t let individual differences get in the way.
Linda
Duke with Benefits by Manda Collins
Lady Daphne Forsyth is well known for her mathematical ability and has been tasked with finding the treasure hidden by the Cameron family during the Reformation period. Clues were left for her by her benefactor who also had her nephew look out for Daphne. But Dalton Beauchamp, Duke of Maitland, was attracted to Daphne when they first met and did not need any urging from his aunt to watch over her. When a dead man is found in a secret room and shots are fired at Daphne and Dalton, he is on the alert as he is determined that Daphne will marry him and no one will hurt her. I was looking forward to this book and was very disappointed in it as I did not feel it was as good as Collins’ other books. The characters were too vapid.
Linda
Happily Bedded Bliss by Tracy Anne Warren
Lady Esme Byron’s sketch of a naked Gabriel Landsdowne appalls the Byrons’ house guests, and Esme and Gabriel are forced to marry to avoid disgrace. He does not even know her and was asleep when she sketched him but her brothers gave him no choice. They grow to care for each other and Esme tells him she loves him. He freezes because he thinks love is a trap. Esme sees beyond the face of indifference Gabriel shows everyone. She knows the death of his parents at a young age and his uncle’s abuse affected him greatly. He needs someone to show him what it’s like to love without fear so he can find a way to let his love out.
Linda
Bedchamber Games by Tracy Anne Warren
Since women were not allowed to practice law, Rosamund Carrow had to disguise herself as a man to finish the law cases started by her late father. She won a case against Lord Lawrence Byron and he was determined to find out more about the lawyer known as Ross Carrow. He felt there was a little something off about him but didn’t know what it was. Ross had soft skin and long eyelashes and sat upright like a woman and not slouched like a man. When one of his brothers mentions how they sneaked a fiancé into a men’s club, Lawrence suddenly realized the truth. Ross is a woman! Lawrence is determined to find out the truth and why a woman is pretending to be a man.
Linda
Merry and Bright by Debbie Macomber
A young woman is surprised to learn that her mother and brother signed her up on an internet dating site. She corresponds with a man who is compatible with her and both enjoy their online chats. They decide to meet but when she sees her online friend, she is shocked and leaves without meeting him. No way would a relationship with this man ever work! A cute Christmas story.
Linda
The Last Time She Saw Him by Jane Haseldine
The book is full of suspense! As a child, Julia’s brother Ben was her hero. He loved his little sister and took care of her when their mother was drunk and their father was nowhere to be found. He watched over her right up to the time he was kidnaped and lost to her forever. Now grown, Julia’s son has been kidnaped from his bed and police are searching but have no leads. As a crime reporter, Julia was responsible for sending a charismatic preacher to jail by disclosing his theft of millions from his church and his rape of several young girls from his church. Church members picketed the courthouse during the trial and threatened Julia. Now preacher Cahill asks her to visit him in prison because he has information about the kidnapper.
Linda
Disorderly Conduct by Tessa Bailey
Charlie Burns and Ever Carmichael meet in a bar and both agree to a relationship with no strings. Ever follows her mother’s rules to be with a guy for one month and then move on. She really likes Charlie but only sees him when he meets her for sex and then, slam bam, he’s out the door. Ever begins to feel used and tells Charlie she is ready for a serious relationship and wants to date other guys. He is floored and it’s not until he sees her with someone else, that he realizes what he is about to lose if he doesn’t act fast. He is the only man for Ever and wants it to be forever.
Linda
I Am Death by Chris Carter
Robert Hunter and his partner Carlos Garcia are called to an area close to LAX where a dead woman is found posed as a five-pointed star. She had been abducted from a home in a wealthy neighborhood where she had been babysitting but the child was unharmed. At the autopsy, detectives are horrified at the torture the young woman was put through. The medical examiner finds a paper rolled up and pushed down the woman’s throat. It contains the message, “I AM DEATH” written in blood. The next day, detectives are called to a gruesome murder and the crime scene is covered in blood. The same message is written on the wall in the victim’s blood. LAPD is afraid they might have a serial killer on their hands.
Richard N B
Malicious Intent by Kathryn Fox
3.5 stars. Great debut in a crowded field, starring Sydney’s only female freelance forensic pathologist. Fox writes a tense, compelling mystery thriller with a (mostly) strong female lead.
Sharon
Grandma Gatewood’s Walk by Ben Montgomery
This is truly a remarkable and inspiring account of the amazing courage and stamina of the intrepid and independent hiker of the Appalacian Trail. The numerous long distance hikes that she undertook at a mature age with very little equipment or resources is unbelievable.
Debbie
Nothing Gold Can Stay by Ron Rash
In NOTHING GOLD CAN STAY, Ron Rash delivers short stories from after the Civil War to current times in the North Carolina mountains. The stories portray the hardness of life and the many choices that every individual must make in life. The stories portray all different levels of society, but most center on the struggling farmer. The reader sees men with hardened prejudice that only an eye-for-an-eye judgment gives retribution. Ron Rash does not give a clear ending to each story, and the reader can only assume the true course of the ending. Each story vividly describes the people and setting, but as a reader I am not a fan of the short story which I feel just begins to come to life when the story has ended and leaves the reader stranded.
Susan
So Big by Edna Ferber
I can't believe that it has taken me so long to read a book by this classic American author. I was challenged by my library to read something this year set in my home state (Illinois, even though I live in Maryland now). This book deservedly won awards! The story of Selina DeJong, her family, and her life is magical. It is fresh and intriguing and hopeful. Selina's struggles show us how even a strife-filled life can be blessed.
Mary
Quiet Before the Thaw by Alexandra Fuller
This is a very powerful book about the Native American experience. It is written as a series of connected episodes about several characters rather than in a conventional narrative style. This structure allows the characters' emotions and reactions to be the focus rather than the plot.
Lucia
The Gin & Chowder Club by Nan Rossiter
A satisfying read with an underlying feeling of sadness. Nice characters and storyline. I enjoyed this and am looking for other books by Ms. Rossiter.
Lucia
Hope at Christmas by Nancy Naigle
A warm, positive story that felt as cozy and comfortable as a warm blanket on a cold night. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and have requested Ms. Naigle's other book about Christmas, CHRISTMAS JOY.
Liz
The Arsonist by Sue Miller
Frankie Rowley has been living and working in Africa for the past fifteen years when she decides to come home to the small town of Pomeroy in New England. As soon as she arrives someone begins setting fires to the summer people's homes. She begins an affair with the editor of the local newspaper. To be honest, I did not get the point of this very slow-moving book. Many questions were left unanswered. There was little character development. I was a fan of Sue Miller until I read this book.
Krismar
The Mountain Between Us by Charles Martin
Great read. Full of suspense and survival. Strong character development. Magical ending.
Lori
Surprise Me by Sophie Kinsella
Having read and enjoyed all of Sophie Kinsella’s previous books, I was delighted to get the opportunity to read an advance copy of SURPRISE ME. Although I expected the book to be her usual humorous “chick-lit”, this book seemed to be more substantial than her other books. I was pleased that the book still had plenty of humor, but there were also some serious issues discussed about marriage, family relationships, etc. I liked the characters and the work setting, and I thoroughly enjoyed the unusual story. I’m very glad that this wasn’t a cookie-cutter version of a previous work but rather an original premise. I highly recommend this very entertaining book.
Tessa B C
Happy Never After by Kathy Hogan Trochek
I like this mystery series. It’s a little edgier than a traditional cozy, because Callahan is a former Atlanta police officer, but it has many of the classic elements of a cozy. I really enjoyed the premise in this installment, especially as I was a teenager in the era of the sixties girl groups.
Jackie
No Middle Name by Lee Child
A group of short stories starring one of my favorite characters, Jack Reacher! Short stories just as good as a longer novel.
Yasemin
Under the Dome by Stephen King
While the sheer size of the book was intimidating, Stephen King creates a town that has been cut off from the world. As chaos ensues, readers can feel the panic and hysteria as a shortage of everything becomes a political agenda. The parallels between the town of Chester's Mill and our current society are unmistakable and worth the read. The ending was such a thrilling conclusion and I highly recommend.
Debbie
Little Boy Lost by J. D. Trafford
A very enjoyable read that I sped through.
Debbie
The Visitors by Catherine Burns
I sped right through this "bizarrely unsettling" book.
Debbie
I Will Find You by Joe Kenda
Absolutely loved this book.
Debbie
I Am Watching You by Teresa Driscoll
A good read that will definitely keep your heart beating.
Debbie
Nine Lessons by Nicola Upson
Little trouble at first, but glad I kept with it.
Lisa
Another Place at the Table by Kathy Harrison
This is a book that will touch your heart but know that is does touch on some tough subjects. Kathy and Bruce Harrison decided to open their doors and become foster parents to children from newborns to teenagers. You will appreciate Kathy's honesty as she tells her story of those children, many of which came to her either physically or sexually abused, with abandonment issues or mentally disabled. She shares the joys as well as the struggles she faced from dealing with a system that didn't always work with birth parents who didn't want her to care for their child. This books is great for those who want to learn about the social services system, foster parents and all that it entails from the good to the bad.
vicki
The Fix by David Baldacci
I received an ARC copy of the book. It was my introduction to Amos Decker and my second Baldacci book. It starts out with a bang and really grabbed my attention from the beginning. Then then about midway through it started to drag. There was a subplot about one of the neighbors that felt like it belonged in a different book. I kept waiting for a tie-in to the plot of THE FIX, but it never came. I hope they did a fix of THE FIX before the final version was published. I liked the story and it did keep me guessing to the end...but I felt like Baldacci did a lot of padding just to get in the word count his publishers wanted. Could have been better.
Vera
Last Stop In Brooklyn by Lawrence H. Levy
Mary is a detective in 1894. Not a job most women have, but a guy comes to her with a strange request. His brother been charged with a brutal crime that he didn't do. He wants Mary to reopen the case. When she takes the case on she couldn't imagine things that would begin to surface. Seems like other things have been covered up with even more crimes. The author keeps us reading. Never knew what would come next.
Would recommend to all that enjoys a good mystery.
Sean
The Fifth Assassin by Brad Meltzer
Brad Meltzer almost always has a way of making me overlook reality to enjoy his somewhat ludicrous plot lines. The book is exposition heavy but I want to think Meltzer talks this way in real life when speaking about conspiracy theories. I would love to find out because it seems extremely fun. That's what this novel was, fun. I enjoyed Beecher's exploits better than his first novel. While readers have to suspend belief at times, isn't that why fiction exists? Meltzer's writing style always makes me hearken back to his previous work. I want to re-read THE MILLIONAIRES or THE FIRST COUNSEL. Overall, it was another fun read that involves a very interesting segment in American history. I really enjoyed it.
Linda
No One But You by Brenda Novak
Sadie Harris just can’t make ends meet on her waitress pay so she takes a job as housekeeper/cook for Dawson Reed. Everyone thinks she has flipped when she takes the job. Dawson was accused of murdering his adoptive parents and, although a jury found him innocent, townsfolk are convinced he is guilty of the crime. Sadie is trying to get her husband Sly to finalize their divorce but he keeps trying to get her back to make her life miserable. Sly is a sadistic police officer and uses his badge to make people cave in to his demands. He is determined she won’t leave him, even if he has to kill her.
Linda
Take Me Home for Christmas by Brenda Novak
Ted Dixon has always been in love with Sophia and was angry and bitter when she married Skip DeBussi while he was away at college. Fourteen years later, Sophia’s world has crumbled. Skip’s body washed up on a beach in Brazil after he tried to flee leaving his investors hanging out to dry. Townspeople are angry and blame her for their monetary losses, not caring that their own greed got them in trouble in the first place. Ted doesn’t like the way people are treating Sophia and her daughter and gives her a job and a place to stay. He realizes he still loves her and always will. She loves Ted and wonders if they will have a second chance after all.
Linda
Holiday Spice by Samantha Chase
A sweet love story of how an outgoing young woman meets a loner who is a gifted woodcarver. Darcy Shaughnessy met Benjamin Tanner to help him write his book about his craft. Although both are attracted to each other, they butt heads frequently. A snowstorm strands her at Ben’s cabin and love blossoms. She has to return to her family in North Carolina while Ben lives in Washington. How can their relationship work when they are on opposite coasts? Ben knows he can’t do without her as she has brought life into his solitary lifestyle.
Linda
Duke of Desire by Elizabeth Hoyt
I love the Maiden Lane series! In this latest, Raphael de Chartres, the Duke of Dyemore, is determined to infiltrate and bring down the infamous Lords of Chaos. The Lords are masked men who kidnap and perform despicable acts upon women and children. When Raphael sees that Iris Daniels has been kidnapped by mistake, he knows he must save her from being killed. He takes her to his home and marries her. He remembered the woman he met and danced with years ago and vowed to keep her safe from Dionysus, the masked leader of the Lords. He did not plan on romance between them but fate intervened.
Jan
Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman
A delightful debut novel about a very dull woman - Eleanor. As the book moves with her through getting ready to meet her selected mate, a local singer, she begins to develop into a real person. She ignores the one person who pays attention to her and messes up most parts of her life. She is insecure, plain, and unaware most of the time. The writing is lovely, very descriptive and fast-paced. This is a fun book and has a lot of topics for a book club discussion.
Gladys
Forever Yours by Cheryl Holt
I am not surprised that Cheryl had been awarded "Best Storyteller of the Year" by Romantic Times Magazine" for she's a terrific writer. You will find yourself either loving or hating a character in her story, for she makes them seem so real. FOREVER YOURS kept me eager to read next chapters in this book about two individuals who had both suffered huge reductions in their financial and status rankings for very different reasons. One was unable to regain any of her financial status while the other lost what most mattered to him. Two different love stories are chronicled in FOREVER YOURS. You will enjoy this book. I am looking forward to reading its sequels.
Francisca E B
Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke
3.5 stars. Subtitle: The Inspiring Story of an Unlikely Hero and the Animals Who Helped Him Save Lives in World War II. The subtitle really intrigued me and I was eager to read about this particular episode, but the author gives us more than 200 pages of background before we get to World War II and the vital role Williams and his elephants played in the fight against the Japanese. Still, it's a fascinating story.
Audrey
The Eyre Affair by Jasper Fforde
First book in the Thursday Next series. Wonderful story! The world is clearly explained, and the mystery involves people and characters moving in and out of books. If you change something while inside a book, the book itself changes. Re-writing endings? Possibility. Excellent start to a series, and I'm looking forward to reading the rest of them.
Donna
Blame by Jeff Abbott
Jane survived an automobile crash, but lost the past three years of her memory. Her neighbor and best friend lost his life in the accident. Each family blames the other. Jane is surrounded with secrets and lies from every one she knows. People are being injured or killed that had anything to do with her on the day of the accident. There is plenty of BLAME to go around.
Donna
The Color of Fear by Marcia Muller
This story takes place over a period of two weeks. Elwood, an Indian, has come to San Francisco to visit his daughter over the Christmas holidays. As he is looking in the window of a jewelry store, he is attacked, beaten to unconsciousness and left for dead by a gang of men. Since other attacks have happened recently, it is determined that this was another racist crime. The men must be identified and caught.
Lori
The Girl Who Takes an Eye for an Eye: A Lisbeth Salander Novel by David Langercrantz
A great continuation of Stieg Larsson's Millennium series. Very impressive for another author to seamlessly continue the story, even more so for being a translation from Swedish. I couldn't put the book down once I got into the story. It filled in some background on the character as well as being a great, complex addition to the series. I highly recommend it.
