This contest period's winners were Cheryl C., Dianne A. and Shirley F., who each received a copy of THE FALLEN by David Baldacci and THEN SHE WAS GONE by Lisa Jewell.
Liz
Love, Lucy by Lucille Ball
Lucy's daughter found a manuscript while going through her mother's things and it became this book. Lucy narrates her life story up until her marriage to Gary Morton. It was an interesting story to learn of her early life and what she went through to become the icon that she was.
Cheryl
A Tale for the Time Being by Ruth Ozeki
This book fascinated me by both the story and the thought-provoking ways it references “time.” At first confusing and a little bit too precious, the story became extremely compelling. I wanted to discuss it the entire time I was reading it. I will definitely suggest it for book club.
Cheryl
Salt Houses by Hala Alyan
Beautifully-written and often heartbreaking story of a multi-generational Palestinian family. First displaced by the Six Day War of 1967, the family faces other displacements as time goes by. The story is important. The writing is exquisite.
Dianne
The Beautiful Mystery by Louise Penny
Penny is an extraordinarily talented writer. This is the first book I've read by this author. Although the mystery genre is never my go-to read, this one was quite interesting. Penny explores a group of monks called The Gilbertines, who have a major connection to the Gregorian chants. When one of their own is murdered, the story begins. Inspector Armand Gamache is on the case with his assistant Jean-Guy Beauvoir. The introduction of Chief Franceour, an enemy of Gamache, who is also his boss, provides more intrigue. All in all, it was pretty good, and I definitely wanted to keep reading until the end to find out who the murderer really was!!!
Jill
Educated by Tara Westover
Reminiscent of THE GLASS CASTLE. Riveting story of Tara’s upbringing with survivalist parents in the mountains of Idaho. A compelling read that you won’t be able to put down. Would be a great pick for a book club.
Sally-Jo
Hillbilly Elegy by J. D. Vance
Interesting read about the Appalachian people's culture. It was an eye-opener about how some people can change their circumstances when they pursue a way to make their lives better.
Sandra
The Mermaid’s Scream by Kate Ellis
I always enjoy reading a new book in this crime series. Each book has a crime that somehow reflects a crime from the past. Crime with a history lesson - how great is that?
Shelia
So You Want to Be a Cop by Alley Evola
You can't get more real than this! Evola gives you the unadulterated truth of what it takes and what to expect for yourself and your family. Afterall, it is not a solitary career. I had enormous respect for law enforcement before. I have even more now. I do believe it is the HARDEST JOB in the world!
Written from a personal as well as professional standpoint with just the right amount of humor to keep it flowing and not text-booky.
Shelia
Smarter Faster Better by Charles Duhigg
Absolutely one of the best "self-help" books I've ever read! It WILL trigger how you think, relate, and see how things connect and play out. Sometimes good, sometimes not. I thoroughly enjoyed it and the breadth of areas he took examples from.
Susan
This I Know by Eldonna Edwards
If you like Jodi Picoult, Emily Griffin and Alice Hoffman to name a few, you'll love reading this book. Definitely hard to put down.
Vickie
Every Last One by Anna Quindlen
This book is a fantastically scary read for mothers who always think about the worst thing that can happen to their family, and then it does. The protagonist of this story runs a landscape business and is married to a teacher. She has three children, Ruby and twins Max and Alex. Ruby is being stalked by her ex-boyfriend Kienan, but everyone continues their daily routine, never doubting that they will all have a happy future. Then, in one awful night, everything changes, and there are only two left to have a bright future. This book makes you think about how life changes quickly and how you should always appreciate your family members because you never know when something unexpected could happen. Realistically told and captivating.
Gerry
The Pearl That Broke Its Shell by Nadia Hashimi
For some reason, this novel sat unread on my Kindle for several years after I bought it, and I almost missed a truly excellent read. Hashimi's debut novel tells the parallel stories of two Afghani women, Shekiba, born in the early twentieth century, and Rahima, her great-granddaughter, born some 70 years later. Their stories reveal both the cruel treatment of so many Afghani women by their own families and the larger, highly mysogynistic society, and also the bravery and strength that allows those women to survive and even thrive under such repressive conditions.
Gerry
Lighthouse Island by Paulette Jiles
Dystopian novels need to be realistic to hold my interest, and this one did until near the end. Perhaps because I wasn't listening as closely as I needed to, having paused this book for a bit while I finished two others. The encounter with other refugees near the end felt jarring, and for a while I wasn't at all sure where the tale was headed. I didn't love it as much as NEWS OF THE WORLD by the same author, but I still found it worth reading.
Gerry
Only Child by Rhiannon Navin
Perfection! There's not one thing I can think of that could make this wonderful novel any better. Navin has beautifully captured the heartbreaking innocence and wisdom of Zach, her six-year-old narrator, a little boy whose family is shattered by the death of his ten-year-old brother in a school shooting. As his parents struggle to deal with their own emotions, Zach turns to his books and his art to find his own way to reconcile his many conflicting feelings about his big brother and the tragedy that took him.
Gerry
Grant by Ron Chernow
3.5 stars. Chernow clearly did extensive research and amassed incredibly detailed information about his subject. I learned a great deal about Grant as a person, a military leader, a politician, and a statesman from reading this biography, and even more about the Civil War and the Reconstruction era. At times, the battle scenes made for tedious reading, so the first third of the book was slow-going. And the over-emphasis on Grant's alcohol issues quickly became annoying. Much more interesting to me were the chapters on Grant's presidency, especially the descriptions of the South in the years after the war. Grant's efforts to provide legal protection and equal opportunities for former slaves in the South were laudatory. Well worth reading!
Gerry
No One Is Coming to Save Us by Staphanie Powell Watts
The publisher’s blurb describes this novel as THE GREAT GATSBY recast, and perhaps that’s part of the reason it didn’t quite resonate with me. I was never a Gatsby fan, nor did I find any of the characters in NO ONE IS COMING TO SAVE US particularly appealing. A “just okay” novel was saved by a nice ending that pulled it up to 3 stars.
Gerry
The Untelling by Tayari Jones
Aria Jackson lived through the car crash that killed her father and baby sister when she was nine. At 25 she begins to unearth secrets about family, friends, her past, and her altered reality in this journey through truth and forgiveness. Jones has developed as a writer over the years. This one does not measure up to her fabulous and most recent novel, AN AMERICAN MARRIAGE, but is still a good read.
Gerry
Reading With Patrick by Michelle Kuo
A touching story about a young Asian-American woman who joined Teach for America and was assigned to teach at an alternative school in Helena, Arkansas. There she encountered, among her many students, one young man with whom she connected deeply and formed a bond that endured even after she completed her two-year teaching assignment and moved on to graduate from law school. On the verge of starting her legal career, she learned that Patrick had dropped out of school and subsequently been arrested for murder. She returned to Helena, began visiting him in jail, and continued to teach him, using poetry and other literature to teach reading and writing skills. Kuo writes thoughtfully about the connection between teacher and student.
Gerry
Lincoln in the Bardo by George Saunders
A challenge to read, but in the end, well worth the effort. Saunders created a bizarre world of diverse characters, and still managed to make each one believable and real, and his world representative of our own.
Gerry
An American Marriage by Tayari Jones
I was captivated from the start by this story of a young, black married couple torn apart when the husband is falsely accused and convicted of rape. Wonderful writing and very believable characters.
Gerry
Prince Philip: The Turbulent Early Life of the Man Who Married Queen Elizabeth II by Philip Eade
After watching "The Crown", I wanted to know more about Prince Philip, and this biography, focused on his early life and ending shortly after Elizabeth's coronation, was just what I needed. The author obviously thinks quite highly of Philip, but presented what seems to be a balanced portrait of his strengths and his weaknesses, highlighting the many contradictions in his personality. Fascinating, too, to read about the connections among so many European royals, who all seem to be cousins and in-laws of some sort. Elizabeth and Philip were actually cousins, in addition to husband and wife: third cousins through Queen Victoria, and second cousins once removed through King Christian IX of Denmark.
Gerry
A Beautiful Blue Death by Charles Finch
3-1/2 stars for a light, engaging mystery story set in Victorian London. Loved the setting and the details about daily life among the different classes.
Gerry
The Perfect Nanny by Leila Slimani
The opening was horrifying, yet intriguing. The writing throughout the novel was very good, setting an eerily frightening tone as mundane events of the family's daily lives were explored. I struggled with the character of Myriam -- could she really have been so attached to the nanny, so infatuated even, that she failed to act even in response to blatantly bizarre behavior? But perhaps her unwillingness to give up the comforts Louise provided did blind her to some extent. The ending left me dissatisfied; I wanted an "a-ha!" moment or some sense of closure.
Gerry
The Lost City of Z: A Tale of Deadly Obsession in the Amazon by David Grann
David Grann shows himself to be quite the intrepid journalist in this interesting account of his research and exploration into the life and work of Percey Fawcett, an amateur explorer from Great Britain who set out in 1925 to find the fabled El Dorado, or what he called the "City of Z". Fawcett disappeared, along with his son and another companion, never to be found or heard from again. The natural environment of the Amazon is described in detail, a world of insects and parasites that's clearly not for the faint of heart. What he found was the beginning of a revolution in scientists' views on how and when the Americas were first populated and the culture and accomplishments of those earliest inhabitants.
Gail
Family Secrets by Nancy Thayer
Three generations of women in a family have kept a part of their lives a secret from each other and the secrets slowly get revealed as the plot unfolds.
Shirley
Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng
This family story brought together all the elements of surprise, empathy, and teenage angst. I loved the character development, the issues present and past, and they way the author dealt with each person and their relationships. As I read the book, I was alternately angry, sad, curious, and intrigued. Celeste Ng put together a well-crafted book that I devoured.
Nancy
Feast: True Love In and Out of the Kitchen by Hannah Howard
I learned a lot about eating disorders. Well written.
Krismar
Anxious for Nothing by Max Lucado
Max Lucado has a gift for writing, for connecting with his reader, and for aligning Scripture with this topic. Another rock star book by Lucado. I took away some simple things to help me with my low-level anxiety.
Dorothy
Accidental Heroes by Danielle Steel
Not the usual Danielle Steel novel characters as they do not have a lot of money. At JFK airport Bernice, a security agent, finds a postcard of the Golden Gate Bridge bearing a message which worries her. She contacts security Ben, a security agent, who comes and is concerned also. Ben learns that Helen Smith is the pilot, who has flown for the military and her service with the airline has been great. Many interesting people are on board. They think that someone has planned to crash into the Golden Gate bridge but who and how. A real good read.
Jane
Beneath a Scarlet Sky by Mark Sullivan
Far and away the best World War II book (and I think I have read all of the recent ones.) It tells the story of a young Italian boy who opts to become a driver for a Nazi General rather than be sent to the Russian front. All this as he continues to work for the Resistance. Good stuff!
Rosemary
The Immortalists by Chloe Benjamin
Four young siblings, ages 7 through 13, secretly visit a gypsy woman to learn their futures. What she gives each of them is the date of his or her death. The book goes on to describe their lives, but leads the reader to wonder how much the predictions influenced their lifelong decisions. It's an intriguing story and well worth reading. It's one of the books our book club is reading this year and should lead to a fantastic discussion.
Judy O.
As Bright as Heaven by Susan Meissner
I love historical fiction. This book takes place mostly in 1918 during WWI. Spanish influenza is killing millions of people around the world. Even the Bright family cannot escape this awful illness. During the worst of the pandemic, Maggie Bright finds a small baby whose parents have died from the influenza. Her family keeps the baby for several years and have never been able to find his "real" family. It is a compelling story. This author has written several other books that I have enjoyed.
Martha
Parting Shot by Linwood Barclay
Barclay has done it again, i.e. created a story of suspense set in the town of Promise Falls. A teenage boy is charged with vehicular homicide for running down a teenage girl at a drunken party at the estate of a rich man. Both teenagers were attending the party with their parents, but left to their own devices, consumed a large amount of alcohol. The defense for the boy got him off on the premise that his mother had always sheltered him from having responsibility for his actions. Then a website based on revenge for injustices targeted him and he was being hounded everywhere he went. His mother had brought him to Promise Falls to hide. A related story of a child predator who is tortured by website avengers is part of the book plus more.
Helen
An American Marriage by Tayari Jones
Wonderful characters, a perfect book club read! Will generate good discussion!
Sally
After Anna by Lisa Scottoline
We spend almost all of our time in the book with Noah, Maggie, Caleb and Anna. Except for Caleb, who’s 10 years old and what you see is what you get, you don’t know what the rest of them will be up to from one page to the next. The format of the book is unique, but it works. Works very well, because the suspense starts on the first page and never lets up. AFTER ANNA is told from the alternating POVs of Noah just before the verdict and Maggie before. You learn a little more with each chapter about what happened, or supposedly happened, but I couldn’t decide who was telling the truth and who was the liar, who was who -- victim, perpetrator, ulterior motive, hidden past, or just plain crazy. Twists and turns and I had no idea what was coming.
Jay
The Lost for Words Bookshop by Stephanie Butland
I LOVED this book! I could not put it down and finished it in one day. Great book for a cold and overcast day spent on the couch. The main character is Loveday and her life has not been at all easy. We don’t find out her story all at once, the book unfolds in three main themes: history, crime and poetry. Fast forward, Loveday works at...The Lost for Words bookshop. Loveday is a cactus and doesn’t want anyone to get close. I loved this book, it really held my attention and I loved the characters. I almost cried and that is saying a lot for me. If you want a quick, interesting and fun read, grab this book.
Harriet
Too Fat, Too Slutty, Too Loud by Anne Helen Petersen
Empowering essays celebrating the outrageousness in the women we admire.
Sandra
I Think I'm OK by C. S. Kenney
I liked it a lot, but toward the middle, it started to drag. About a kid in foster services.
Sandra
Chambers of the Endless Heart by Mack Leonard
Short stories! Love them.
Sandra
Reflections and Accidents by Inge Moore
More short stories. I go on binges, of genres.
Pamela
Orphan Train by Christina Baker Kline
Historical fiction, ORPHAN TRAIN was a novel about a troubled teenage girl in foster care and a 91-year-old woman who was placed on an orphan train traveling from NYC to the Midwest. As the author reveals the elder's hardships of going from one family to another in 1929, she reveals the teen's hardships of being bounced from one foster family to another. Thus, we learn how much in common the two main characters have and how their relationship evolves into a friendship mutually beneficial to both. This was my county's community read book for 2018. Our book club discussed the book last week.
Donna
The Girls in the Picture by Melanie Benjamin
Such an interesting topic about the friendship between Frances Marion and Mary Pickford, and early motion picture making.
Kay
Girls of the Atomic City by Denise Kiernan
An interesting look at the women who helped build the first atomic bomb.
Debbie
You Will Be Mine by Natasha Pearson
Love, love, love this author! YOU WILL BE MINE keeps you on the edge from beginning to end! It is a thriller from beginning to end! I'm sure you will love this book and I have read all her books from this series!
Cherie
The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah
My favorite book of the year! Simply a must-read story about the bonds of family, love and loss. Beautifully written with characters that become like family.
Michelle
The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah
Just when I thought I had a grip on where this story was taking me, unexpected turns completely caught me off guard - and knocked me over. This book left me with circles under my eyes as I had to keep reading late into the night. Just another chapter. One more page. This was at times a heartbreaking, gut-wrenching reading journey. At other times, I slapped the book down in anger. I actually had nightmares two nights in a row during the last quarter of the book. I feel like I just stepped out of a portrait of Alaska and walked in the shoes of Leni, and I have a pile of tissues next to me to prove it. Not the book I was expecting, and at times I was unhappy with where the story led, but you know it was a good book when you can’t stop reading,
Nadine
The Girl Who Wrote in Silk by Kelli Estes
I enjoyed the history part of the book because it was something I was not familiar with. Too many coincidences for it to ring true. Inara, our heroine, just happens to become involved with a Chinese researcher who just happens to be a descendant of the family they are researching. Well that certainly is convenient. Inara has a ton of student loans, but her father is rich. Father just happens to die leaving a sizable inheritance for a Inara to finish her hotel. And the work on the hotel...amazing how that all came together so quickly.
Jud
Spare Change by John A. Peak
Book was okay but not great. Plot involves a down-and-out alcoholic lawyer who becomes involved in a murder investigation.
Gretchen
The Rooster Bar by John Grisham
Interesting subject - three students enroll in a sub-standard law school and run up huge debt in student loans. Then they figure out that their chances of passing the bar exam is slim and getting jobs even slimmer. Their solution is unique!
Elizabeth
Blindsighted by Karin Slaughter
BLINDSIGHTED, Karin Slaughter’s first novel in her Grant County series, leaves me surprisingly pleased. I’m surprised because, although her two stand-alones that I read (COP TOWN and PRETTY GIRLS) are excellent, I was dissatisfied with the two books I read in her Will Trent series. But this series is just different enough to make me want more. So I’m happy that I started this Grant County series at the beginning, i.e., with "Grant County, #1." Now I intend to read the rest of the series in order.
Sandy
The Hand That First Held Mine by Maggie O'Farrell
This book was awesome!! I can't wait to read more by this author!
Gil
Blood Moon by Garry Disher
Hal Challis heads a criminal investigation unit at a seaside resort. At the end of the school year, the graduates from high school, referred to as 12 year schoolies, flock to the beach and Hal and his people are kept busy trying to keep them out of trouble. In addition to that, they are trying to solve two crimes. One, the severe beating of a disliked school chaplain and the other over the demolition of an historic landmark. Hal and his staff are very likable people and we get a look into their problems. This is one book of a series and I look forward to reading the ones that follow and getting more familiar with his staff to see how they resolve their issues.
Michelle
The Grave's a Fine and Private Place by Alan Bradley
Spending time with Flavia de Luce is always a joy, and a rewarding exercise in science is fun!
Linda
The Scot Beds His Wife by Kerrigan Byrne
Gavin St. James is determined to break from the Mackenzie clan and make it on his own. He plans to buy a neighboring farm and raise cattle. The land is owned by the Ross family who vow it will never be sold to a Mackenzie. Samantha Masters is on the run from her brothers-in-law and Alison Ross has her take her identity and go to Scotland. The Ross farm needs someone on site or it will revert to the Mackenzies. Samantha meets the handsome Scot and tries to hold herself aloof. But when her house is burnt down around her, she has no one to turn to except Gavin. What will he do when he finds out the truth about her?
Linda
Surrender by Joan Johnston
Brian Flynn and Taylor Grayhawk had been high school sweethearts. Now they are in a life-or-death situation after a rogue flame flared up and took out the two engines on the plane Taylor was flying. Brian is usually a smoke jumper but this time he served as Taylor’s spotter. He looks for a patch of green among the burned-out forest. He sees a small meadow and grabs Taylor and parachutes out. Safe on the ground with fire all around, they need to find shelter and wait for rescue. In a cave, they find they are still attracted to each other and the sparks ignite between them. They each hope they can have a second chance.
Linda
The English Wife by Lauren Willig
Bayard Van Duyvil traveled to Europe and met Georgie Evans. She told Bay about her life as companion to Annabelle Lacey but he believed Georgie was Annabelle and married her under that assumption. Back at their home in New York, Georgie met his overbearing mother and was found lacking. At a ball at their newly-finished house, Bay is found with a knife sticking out of his chest and he whispered “George” to his sister who found him. Everyone thinks that Georgie killed Bay and ran off but where is Georgie? Did she kill her husband? Or was it Annabelle’s cousin from England who was about to expose Georgie as a fraud? Or was it the architect who was rumored to be having an affair with Georgie? Lots of suspense.
Linda
Promise Not to Tell by Jayne Ann Krentz
Virginia Troy and Cabot Sutter survived the horrors of a fire that killed their mothers and destroyed the compound of the cult they called home. Twenty-two years later, they are investigating the possible murder of a woman who also survived the fire. She left a clue for Virginia in her final painting, one that shows Quinton Zane, former cult leader. Virginia and Cabot soon find their lives in jeopardy. Is Zane still alive? They learn that their mothers embezzled money from Zane and had it in offshore accounts. The money was for the children and the key to the account was known only to the four women. All have now died and Virginia is believed to have the key. This was a book that grabs you from page one and gets better with each page.
Linda
Cowboy Stole My Heart by Soraya Lane
Sam Mendes, known as the "horse whisperer", was called by Walter Ford to help with a stallion he had purchased for his daughter. Mia Ford told Sam about the horrible accident in which her best friend was killed and the stallion was injured. After the accident, no one could get around the horse. If Sam couldn’t help him, Mia was afraid he would be euthanized. Working so closely together, Sam and Mia fell in love but Sam’s ex-fiance had hurt him badly and he was afraid to trust any woman. He left Mia even though both were hurting. It took words of wisdom from his best friend and brother-in-law to wake Sam up and to make him realize he had to let go of the past in order to have a future.
Linda
Keeping Christmas by B. J. Daniels
Chance Walker receives a call from Beauregard Bonner asking him to find his missing daughter, Dixie. Chance has a feeling she is headed his way and he’s right. He has always been Dixie’s hero and she has been in love with him since she was 12 and he was dating her older sister. She believes he is the only one who can save her from the two men who tried to kill her. When she got a chance to escape from them, she headed right to Chance. A great story as you try to determine who is trying to kill Dixie and why.
Linda
Sugar Pine Trail by RaeAnne Thayne
Julia Winston is the town librarian and thinks she has her life all mapped out. Then she’s asked to rent her upstairs apartment to Jamie Caine, a handsome pilot who Julia has had a crush on for years. She is so nervous when meeting him that she acts like a prissy, uptight librarian and he turns away. But when Julia takes on the responsibility and care of two neglected little boys, Jamie sees the true Julia and falls in love with her. He has a reputation as a ladies’ man and Julia doesn’t believe he could fall in love with her. He should walk away but he can’t. How can he make Julia believe him?
Linda
The Stranger You Know by Andrea Kane
Red-headed college girls are being raped and murdered. Casey Woods, owner of Forensic Instincts, had a friend who was a victim and the murderer was never caught. Now murders are being committed similar to those committed by Glen Fisher. A sadistic murderer, he was caught using Casey as a decoy and is now in prison. But he has never forgotten Casey and swore he would get even. Since Fisher is in prison, who is the copycat killer? Calls are made to Casey after each death is committed and the killer tells her that her time is coming.
Tessa B C
Written in Stone by Ellery Adams
This is book number four in the Books By the Bay Mysteries series. I like Olivia and her friends – the Bayside Book Writers. Of course the writers’ group includes the town Police Chief, handsome Sawyer Rawlings, which is convenient for the amateur sleuths.
Sharon
Twenty-One Days by Anne Perry
Found this fascinating in the way that those early 20th century sleuths had to ferret out the truth. Lots of good color, good characterization.
Eileen
An American Marriage by Tayari Jones
An honest look at lives torn apart by a false imprisonment of a young black man.
Niki
After Anna by Lisa Scottoline
This story is told from two different perspectives and is written so well, you can't help but keep reading. As the perspective changes, questions come to mind, which are then answered or prompt more questions as the other person's perspective comes into focus. There were times I thought I knew what was going to happen, but as I neared the end of the book, I realized I was not only wrong, but didn't even suspect this book would end the way it did. My biggest advice...clear your schedule! You will not want to put this book down!
Bonnie
Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg
Subtitled "Women, work, and the will to lead", this book would be a perfect graduation gift for any young woman who wants to get ahead in the work world and all young men who support that goal. It's honest, eye-opening and anyone can learn something from reading this quick read.
Patti
The Rules of Inheritance by Claire Bidwell Smith
It is a heartbreaking story of a young lady starting a new life leaving home, starting college and missing her parents. She suffers some losses and tries to go on with her own life. See finds that time makes one heal and she has to go on.
Brady
Educated by Tara Westover
I would have to say this memoir/autobiography is probably the best I have ever read in my 88 yrs. of living and I have read a lot of them. Tara had a 1% chance being really educated, but after dogged attention to self-education, she acquires her masters and PhD from Cambridge. What a roller-coaster ride to get there! Her problem was and is her parents and one brother which I will not tell you about here, but it seems she has never been able to seal off the existing tie that binds children to parents. The writing is superb and the story compelling. A great read.
Donna
Secrets We Kept by Krystal A. Sital
The memoir is Krystal's grandmother's and mother's story of their marriages as wives of Hindu men. Their husbands lived contradictory lives and domestic abuse was prevalent in this culture. These women found the strength to survive and, eventually, tell their story to Krystal as a warning to be very careful with whom you marry.
Sharon
Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden
Well written with much well-researched information about the life and role of a geisha in pre-WWII Japan with some story of the life of many people during the War. Overall, very engaging as Golden allows the life of a young girl, "rescued" from intense poverty (in actuality, sold first by her father and then by the procurer), and taken to Kyoto where she was trained in the arts of the Geisha. I found the description of the garments, the make-up and hairdos quite interesting.
Fritsi
The 100-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out the Window and Disappeared by Jonas Jonasson
A wonderfully funny and touching novel.
Susan
The Woman in the Window by A. J. Finn
This book is a comfortable old friend until it takes a twisty turn into a place I did not see coming. It was a good read and really kept me in suspense. When I thought I had it figured out it took another turn.
Rosalie
The Children's Train by Jana Zinser
A fascinating story of German parents sending their children to England for safety from German bombings and the Nazis during WW II. We meet the children in a Berlin. The atrocities committed by the Nazis is unbelievable. I highly recommend this book to anyone who likes war stories.
Sandy
Cemetery Girl by David Bell
Tom and Abby Stuart had everything - a perfect marriage, successful careers, and a beautiful daughter Caitlin. Then one day Caitlin vanishes without a trace. For awhile they grasped at every false hope and followed every empty lead, but the tragedy ended up changing their lives, overwhelming them with guilt and dread, and shattering their marriage. Four years later, Caitlin is found alive - dirty and disheveled yet very calm. She won't discuss where she has been or what happened. This book only took me two days to read and now I wish it wasn't over.
Nancy
The Cutting Edge by Jeffery Deaver
I devour everything that Deaver writes and this one is no exception. What starts out as a seemingly deranged Russian murdering engaged couples to “save” the world’s diamonds turns out to be even more diabolical. I would have given the book five stars, but it got too technical for me about diamonds and geothermic matters. Plus, I miss all the updates on the board. Read the book and you’ll see what I’m talking about.
Ivy
The Woman in the Window by A. J. Finn
Riveting! There are twists and turns not anticipated. Just when I thought I had figured out the who did what, something else appeared to take me to an a-ha page-turner. Then, as I imagined the outcome in a matter of a few lines, I was thrown. Truly a twisted who done it. The end is nothing like what you expect.
Leanna
The Wife Between Us by Greer Hendricks
Wow, this book just grabs you and doesn’t let go until you turn that final page. A very good psychological thriller, with lots of twists and turns that I didnt see coming. You’ll lose some sleep with this one.
Sharon
Our Little Secret by Roz Nay
I never thought about how not getting closure from a first break up can be so devastating. My heart broke for the protagonist but I couldn't believe how it ended.
Pam
Jar of Hearts by Jennifer Hillier
Locks you in with the very first sentence, takes you through unimaginable paths, and leaves the reader with an incredible twist-of-fate ending.
Judy
Books for Living by Will Schwalbe
The author speaks of how books influence various parts of his life using examples from Stuart Little (persistence) to Rebecca (deceit) to illustrate his point of view. This appears to be a very well-read author as he uses multiple books and authors in every chapter. Well worth the time to read.
Susan
All We Ever Wanted by Emily Giffin
Beautiful story. Really makes you think about what your own morals are and how far you will go for those morals. It’s so much easier to just let things go. Takes a lot of strength to stand by what you believe. Definitely a page-turner.
Dorothy
After Anna by Lisa Scottoline
Excellent read I couldn't put it down. A mother who lost custody of her baby because she had postpartum psychosis after her birth gets a call from her daughter, now 17, and she wants to reunite with her mother. Her father and his family were recently killed in finally a plane crash. He has left his daughter $50 million dollars. Her mother is anxious to meet her daughter. Read it.
Karen
To Die But Once by Jacqueline Winspear
Britain has declared war on Germany, but in the spring of 1940 not much is happening, and
the country is in preparation mode. Air bases are being opened, public buildings and underground stations have been sandbagged, children are being sent out of London, black out curtains and gas masks are required for everyone, and barrage balloons are floating in the sky. People are beginning to think the precautions are not necessary but then Germany starts to enter France trapping British troops fighting in France. All available boats go to the rescue, and the Germans launch air attacks on the troops killing and maiming many. Information on soldiers and others is in short supply. Maisie tries to help families discreetly due to Anna's status.
Ilene
The Constant Nymph by Margaret Kennedy
Fourteen-year-old Tessa Sanger is the daughter of a brilliant Bohemian composer, Albert Sanger, who with his huge unconventional family of children from two different wives and mistresses and hangers-on, lives on a chalet high in the Austrian Alps. It just so happens that Tessa is hopelessly in love with a composer Lewis Dodd, a family friend. When Tessa's father dies, Lewis contacts her late mother's wealthy family so they will take care of her and her sisters and brother. But when the family arrives, Lewis is drawn away by her beautiful cousin Florence. Eventually they marry and put the kids in English boarding schools although they never went to school before and do not want to start now.
Elizabeth
In Every Moment We Are Still Alive by Tom Malmquist
As fiction, this book probably would not work. However, the truth of Tom Malmquist's experiences could well make you love him. You may hear that IN EVERY MOMENT WE ARE STILL ALIVE is Malmquist's story of the death of his long-time girlfriend and his learning to become a single father. But it's not so simple as that. He also describes, in great detail, staying by his girlfriend's side, dealing with the bureaucracy of Sweden's healthcare system, courts, social services, etc. He also reminisces about his father's death so soon after his girlfriend's. It may be more then you want to know. And if you care about readability, Malmquist, apparently, doesn't. That is, he doesn't use quotation marks and his paragraphs are long, sometimes pages long.
Pam
The House of Broken Angels by Luis Alberto Urrea
The best book I have read this year! The story of a Mexican-American family living in San Diego who celebrate the birthday/funeral of their patriarch. Every detail rings true for the characters and setting of a family in San Diego with Mexico ties. A meditation on dying as well as living. Truly a superb book!
Thomas
The Rooster Bar by John Grisham
This is a good book.
DeAnn
A Place For Us by Fatima Farheen Mirza
10 stars to this stunning debut novel from Mirza. I fell in love with this family, each and every character. The story centers around the Muslim Indian American family, Layla and Rafiq as parents and the three siblings: Hadia, Huda, and Amar. Mirza's writing totally drew me in to the over-achieving oldest child Hadia, who wants to please her parents, Huda, the somewhat overlooked middle child, and Amar, the son who struggles with the strictness of his father. The book opens with Hadia's wedding and then we are gifted with vignettes of episodes throughout the lives of the family members. Brilliant storytelling, lyrical language, and a glimpse into the lives of this family. The last chapter tore my heart out with the story in Rafiq's voice.
lee
Need to Know by Karen Cleveland
Had to finish reading, couldn't put it down. Great story about a CIA analyst and what she finds while searching for Russian spies. Great read.
Sandra
Titantic: The Most Complete Story Ever Told by Matthew Vollbrecht
I have read several books on the ship. This was the best, by far.
Donna
Our Kind of Cruelty by Araminta Hall
Verity and Mike have been in a bizarre relationship for seven years. They created a game called "Crave" to create sexual excitement for the two of them. Mike is obsessed and fantasizes about Verity to the point that he believes he can read her thoughts. This love obsession takes over his life and regardless of the circumstances, he believes he controls the situation. It's a twisted love affair.
Beth
Gone To Dust by Matt Goldman
I was turned off by a few unnecessary swear words and many lengthy descriptive sentences but overall, the plot of this book was interesting. A mystery that isn't quite as dark and nauseating as some.
Trezeline
My Grandmother Asked Me To Tell You She's Sorry by Fredrik Backman
This is an unusual story but very interesting. A good read.
Karen
Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate
This is a great read for a book club. Would make for a really good discussion.
Joanne
The Immortalists by Chloe Benjamin
This is a very different book from ones I usually read. I had a hard time getting in to it, especially while reading about Simon. But the more I read the more I began to see the underlying threads of the story and understand how the four siblings' lives were affected and directed by the encounter with the elderly woman when they were mere children. Their desire to learn when they would die controlled their actions throughout their lives.
Kathy
The Lawn Boy by Jonathan Evison
Best book I have read this year. A young Mexican cannot seem to climb out of the poverty he was raised in. He has a mobile home in an Indian reservation, a single mom and a mentally handicapped older brother he is constantly putting out fires for, and a dad who has told him that he doesn’t really like him.
Jenelle
Treasured Treasures by Kerry Lynne
Loved the book except for some repetitive phrases. Now reading the sequel with the third book coming out next week. Large books with a lot of meat in them.
Nancy
The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky
It was a decent book, a lighthearted version of the CATCHER IN THE RYE, in my opinion. It felt like a direct translation but in modern times with current cultural references.
Helen
The Last Ballad by Wiley Cash
A heartbreaking story of being poor and working in a mill to feed your children in North Carolina in 1929. The novel is about a young mother who finds the courage to join the beginnings of the labor movement. It is a story of the "Have and Have Nots" and it makes the reader question what she would do if faced with the same situations. I will not forget this book.
Gina
Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman
Best book I have read in ages. It is funny and clever and engaging. Our heroine, Eleanor, is quirky and going to be a literary figure for the ages. Her life, her loves, and her foibles are told with charm and wit. I did not want this book to end.
Deb
The Delight of Being Ordinary - A Road Trip with the Pope and the Dalai Lama by Roland Merullo
Enjoyed the one-weekend adventures when the Pope and the Dalai Lama escape the Vatican, are disguised, and enter the world to become ordinary men. Their conversations comparing their respective beliefs are enlightening, especially when they meet a Jewish man who adds the perspective of Judaism to the mix. There is even a bit of the supernatural as well. Good book for "pondering".
Linda
The Neighbors by Hannah Mary McKinnon
What would you do if you ex moved in next door? Would you acknowledge that fact to your husband or would you keep it a secret between you and the ex? This book was one I couldn't put down until I got to the end with characters I fell in love with and the thoughts of all the possible ways this could turn out.
Anita
Last Train to Istanbul by Ayse Kulin
This was an excellent novel based on history. It is about how Turkish diplomats helped save hundreds of Jews from the Nazis during WWII. They have to travel from Paris to Istanbul by train, and try to avoid getting stopped by the SS. It was originally written in Turkish and translated, and was written excellently.
Rebecca
Death Comes for the Archbishop by Willa Cather
This book was written in the early 1900s by a noted author. Compared to today's books, this story is very slow moving.
Linda
Calico Joe by John Grisham
I enjoyed this book and it really made me feel for the characters. I have enjoyed watching baseball for many years, so this story made me think of the trials that players often go through to get chosen to play on a national team.
Nadine
Secrets in Death by J. D. Robb
I devour these books, mostly because of my love for and attachment to the characters. Thank goodness because the resolution of the investigation, though it was interesting, seemed a tad abrupt. Abrupt resolution aside, I've enjoyed being a witness to Eve's evolution. Eve has gained a wealth of compassion without having to sacrifice her edge and snark. I've also enjoyed DeWinter and how she seems to be slowly becoming part of Eve's circle of friends.
Linda
The Tea Girl of Hummingbird Lane by Lisa See
What impressed me the most was the quality of life of Chinese people living in the remote villages in the 1980s! They are so removed from the rest of the world! And all teas are not the same!! Very enlightening and a great story.
Gretchen
Never Let You Go by Chevy Stevens
Another novel from Chevy Stevens, who had me hooked with her first book STILL MISSING. Couldn't put it down and hated finishing it.
Lynn
Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng
I've now read both of Ms Ng's novels and am just amazed at her mastery of intertwining plot lines and rich complexity of community and characters. She is wise beyond her years, is able to get that wisdom on the page, and has already risen to the top rank of literary fiction writers.
David
After Anna by Lisa Scottoline
Wow, Lisa gets better and better. This book is so gripping and suspenseful. I had NO idea how it will end and neither will you. This may be her best book.
Rosemary
Nutshell by Ian McEwan
A woman and her lover, who happens to be her brother-in-law, plan to murder her husband to profit by selling the family estate. Since the title is in his name he must go. The entire story is told from the point of view of the 9-month-old fetus she is carrying. This is a unique story varying from the absurd to dramatic in a crazed situation.
Susan
As You Wish by Jude Deveraux
I couldn't get into this book. Almost gave up a couple of times but did finish it.
Phyllis
Little Big Love by Katy Regan
It’s easy to love and care about Zac; he’s a 10 year old sensitive, overweight, bullied little boy who decides he wants to find his father who, he has been told, left before he was born. He is joined in his quest to find his father by his loyal friend, Teagan. However, in their detective work they find family secrets surrounding Zac’s father and the death of Zac’s uncle. The story is told from the point of view of Zac, his mother Juliet and his grandfather Mick. It is funny, heartbreaking, heartwarming and uplifting. It is a well-written novel and Katy Regan has you caring for all of her characters. Thanks to Penguin First to Read for an early copy.
Linda
The Disappeared by C. J. Box
Joe Pickett gets a call from Governor Colter Allen to find a missing British tourist. At the same time, he gets a call from Nate Romanowski asking for his help in reinstating the policy of obtaining eagles and training them to hunt predators. Nate agrees to help Joe in his search for the missing Brit. They had no idea that these two cases would coincide or that Joe’s vengeful mother-in-law Missy would be in the middle of it. The book is about the controversial issue of wind turbines and the damage they do to the environment. In this case, the death of eagles. This book ended abruptly so hurry up Mr. Box and finish the next one. Lots of unanswered questions that hopefully will be answered in the next book.
Linda
The Woman in the Window by A. J. Finn
Suffering from agoraphobia, Anna Fox is unable to leave her house. She amuses herself by spying on her neighbors, especially the Russell’s who have recently moved in with their teenage son. She meets a woman she assumes to be Jane Russell and they strike up a friendship. Watching the Russell house, she sees Jane being stabbed and falling while leaving a bloody handprint on the window. Police are called and don’t believe her when they find she has been drinking while on medication and think she is hallucinating. A suspenseful book.
Linda
The Pleasures of Passion by Sabrina Jeffries
After killing a man in a duel, Niall Lindsey is forced to flee England. Before he leaves, he begs his love Brilliana Payne to go with him. She can’t leave her ill mother and refuses. Seven years later, Niall returns to England and comes face to face with Brilliana. He realizes he still loves her even though she married shortly after he left. She is now a widow. England's spymaster Lord Fulkham forces them into a pretend relationship to find the source of counterfeit bills passed on by Brilliana's father. She is still in love with Niall but doesn’t want her heart broken again. True love finds a way and their “pretend” relationship turns into the real thing.
Linda
The Duke Knows Best by Jane Ashford
Verity Sinclair grew up in a small village with dreams of traveling the world. During her season in London, she meets Lord Randolph Gresham, thought to be the handsomest of the Duke of Langford’s sons. She is turned off when she learns that he is a vicar in a small village and makes snide comments. He thinks she is rude and walks away. But the more they are together, they form a friendship that develops into romance. Verity’s father is opposed to the romance and makes his feelings known to the Gresham family. She has to change her father’s mind because she is determined to have Randolph.
Linda
The Cowboy Who Came Calling by Linda Broday
A sweet love story between a stubborn and independent young woman and a newcomer with a sexy grin and a lazy Texas drawl. Glory Day met Luke McClain when she accidentally shot him when they were trying to apprehend a wanted outlaw. Taking him home to doctor his leg, attraction sizzled between them but Luke was there for one purpose and it wasn’t to snare a wife. He tried to help around the farm but Glory thought he felt sorry for her and she was too proud to accept any sort of charity. When he goes to catch the outlaws, he tells her he will not be back. Too late, she wishes she had said yes when he asked her to marry him. She just hopes he makes it back because her answer will change.
Harriett
Prague Winter: A Personal Story of Remembrance and War, 1937-1948 by Madeleine Albright
The former Secretary of State tells her story of Czechoslovakia during WWII. It is a memoir and history of the events and emotions consuming Europe. She has a smooth and pithy style of writing that makes even readers who dislike reading history want to keep going to her conclusion.
Linda
Hello Stranger by Lisa Kleypas
She was the first female doctor in England and had been subjected to ridicule and scorn, but Dr. Garrett Gibson held her head high and tended to her patients. She had no idea an admirer shadowed her to keep her safe while on London’s streets. Ethan Ransom was attracted to the lady doctor the first time he saw her and vowed to keep her safe. But now, his work as a clandestine undercover operative was about to put Garrett’s life in danger and that is one thing that Ethan won’t allow.
Linda
The Trouble with True Love by Laura Lee Guhrke
Rex Pierpoint, Viscount Galbraith, is known as a rake and has sworn never to marry. But his great-aunt Petunia has other ideas and has him open a dance with Clara Deverill. Rex usually charms the ladies and doesn’t understand the censure he is getting from Clara. She intrigues him and he wants to kiss her. She tells him the dance has ended and walks away. He hadn’t realized it and is stunned when he finds himself alone on the dance floor. He helps her at her family’s newspaper and realizes he has fallen for her. What will the gossips say when they learn that the rake who has sworn off love and marriage will have to eat his words? This is the second book in the Dear Lady Truelove series and is a great romance.
Jean
Mrs. Caliban by Rachel Ingalls
Once you accept MRS. CALIBAN's bizarre premise, that an unhappily married housewife would not only allow a large frogman to live in her home but would also have an affair with him, you will enjoy this book. It is interesting to observe as Dorothy convinces herself she is doing nothing wrong because her cheating husband has abandoned their bed. The ending was regrettably predictable, though it could have been even sadder.
Myrna
Rules of Civility by Amor Towles
I very much liked this book, a look at the lives of 20-somethings finding their place among the wealthy of New York City in 1938. What rules did they follow, and which ones did they break or pretend to be adhering to? Towles' writing style makes it a thoroughly enjoyable read!
LouAnn
Lilac Girls by Martha Hall Kelly
Our book club recently read LILAC GIRLS and every single person in the group loved the book. The author did a wonderful job of researching the books. The characters were very vivid and I found myself being very entranced with their lives and personalities. The book alternated between the different characters and also between the U.S. and Europe. Definitely a page-turner.
Kay
The Girls of Atomic City by Denise Kiernan
A thrilling account of the scores of young women who left their hometowns for an unknown journey that would ultimately lead to the development of the atomic bomb.
Margie
Beauty in the Broken Places by Allison Pataki
Inspiring true story of a woman’s love and devotion to her husband during the worst of times. It’s a book telling of their life before and after her 30-year-old husband suffers a rare and life-threatening stroke.
Julie
After Anna by Lisa Scottoline
I love her books and this one is terrific!
Helen
If I Die Tonight by Alison Gaylin
Alison Gaylin's suspense novel IFI DIE TONIGHT is terrifying because it can happen. Her insight into the world of today's teens -- the risks, the challenges, and the overwhelming power of social media -- is on the mark. And frightening. A young man is murdered. A young man is accused. And the lies and coverups will keep you guessing until the very end. Well done.
Cheryl
Risky Lies by Lynn Hammond
Loved this book! Story picks up right away and holds your attention through out the book. You find out the story or picture your looking at isn't always what it looks like. This is a thrilling story, with many twists and turns. The characters are very likeable, with a few steamy scenes. I enjoyed this story. It is suitable for college-age or adult.
Francisca E B
The Shape of Water by Andrea Camilleri
3.5 stars. Book Number One in the Inspector Montalbano mystery series, set in Sicily, is an absolute delight! Montalbano is a wonderful character. He deals with the worst of human situations and yet still finds humor in his life. Camilleri’s writing is very atmospheric. I almost felt as if I were visiting Sicily. I look forward to reading more of this series.
Richard N B
Catch Me If You Can by Frank Abagnale
The book’s subtitle depends on the edition: The Amazing True Story of the Most Extraordinary Liar in the History of Fun and Profit! -or- The True Story Of a Real Fake. Frank Abagnale began his career as a forger, check-kiter and con-man when he was just sixteen years old. It’s a fascinating memoir of his years of crime, full of daring escapades, humorous situations, and outlandish lies.
Lois
Lilac Girls by Martha Hall Kelly
Loved the book. Following three very different girls from different backgrounds and how they behaved during the WWII period was creative. Very readable and great for a book club discussion.
Betty
After Anna by Lisa Scottoline
Have you ever made a mistake in your life and desperately wished for a do-over? For 17 years Maggie Alderman has lived with regret over losing custody of her infant daughter Anna. But Anna’s father has died in a plane crash leaving her in a boarding school and Anna now wants to come to live with Maggie, her husband Dr. Noah Alderman, and stepson Caleb. The days of what was once a loving happy family are over…after Anna comes to live with them.
Jennifer
Alex and Eliza by Melissa de la Cruz
I just saw Hamilton for the first time and loved it! Alex and Eliza gave me more to the story that I wanted to learn.
Jud
The Columbus Affair by Steve Berry
Interesting novel centered around the premise that Columbus was actually a Jew looking for a new Jewish homeland and a place to hide their most sacred objects.
Jud
The Outlaw Demon Wails by Kim Harrison
6th entry featuring Morgan trying to save a life while in the Ever-After. Recommended for fantasy fans.
Lynn
Need to Know by Karen Cleveland
Loved it! Could not put it down...read it in one sitting!!
Betty
A Symphony of Echoes by Jodi Taylor
A vibrant, funny jaunt into the world of St. Mary's, an "historical" organization that sends time travelers throughout history to make sure that everything happens as it should. Frequently hilarious, but historically interesting. I love this series.
Joan
Boy Erased: A Memoir by Garrard Conley
A fascinating account of a young homosexual man, brought up in a Southern Baptist family, who goes through a program to make him ex-gay. Disturbing that people actually think it is something to be cured. My brother went through something very similar years ago before he accepted who he is.
Elizabeth
Sometimes I Lie by Alice Feeney
SOMETIMES I LIE isn't a bad book (although it does irritate me that so many book titles contain the "lie" word lately). But this book is overrated. Amber is in a coma, although she can hear what others around her are saying. First she feels one way, then she gradually remembers more and more. Claire, Amber's sister, seems fine, then not fine, then good, then bad, etc. And so it goes with all the characters in this book, including Amber. Also, most of the characters, including Amber, are unlikable. Told In "Before," "Now," and "After" chapters, including diary entries, SOMETIMES I LIE should have you confused about everyone in it. But it is not unputdownable. If you've heard that it is, lower your expectations.
Sandy
Manitou Canyon by William Kent Kruger
Absolutely loved this book from beginning to end!!
Gladys
The Perfect Bargain by Julia London
The plot of the book is entertaining. I loved the Highlander hero, but there was no excuse for the constant F--- word throughout the book. I found myself wondering if the author thought she would give the reader an orgasm by using the F--- word in places where Heck or Darn would have been more suitable.
Phyllis
The Immortalists by Chloe Benjamin
I can highly recommend this book if you like family relationships. The author does a wonderful job of characterization and denotes separate parts to each main character. The four siblings are Simon, Klara, Daniel and Varya Gold who consulted a fortune teller as young children and the rest is history!
Debbie
Then She Was Gone by Lisa Jewell
This was a great read! I can't believe I've never read Lisa Jewell before. I read this in just a day and a half! The story pulled me in and I couldn't stop reading. Best book I've read in a while.
Karen
The Bad Daughter by Joy Fielding
Who is the bad daughter? Is it Robin, a therapist, who is full of self doubt and regrets? She left her dysfunctional family five years ago after the cancer death of her mother and her father's marriage to her best friend, Tara. Could the bad daughter be Melanie, Robin's sarcastic older sister? Melanie thinks her mother loved Robin more than her, and Robin, who worked her way through school, got all the breaks and got to go to college. Another source of Melanie's resentment is her autistic teenage son who was the product of a teenage romance. Robin returns home when she is notified by Melanie that their father, his wife, Tara and Cassidy, Tara's daughter have been shot. Is Cassidy the bad daughter?
Sean
Noir by Christopher Moore
I'm a huge fan of Christoper Moore's novels because of their sense of humor and the farcical worlds he creates. Here, the funny is there but it's more grounded. (Not a lot, there are still moonmen narrating snakes). The lead characters are fun and real. You root for them. But one of the best characters is San Francisco itself, especially the time frame. The book has a ton of soul and it genuinely makes you smile. Thanks again for a great book!
Rocky
The Charm Bracelet by Viola Shipman
3.5 if we had halves! This is the second Viola Shipman book I've read. THE HOPE CHEST was the first, and I like the author's simple, basic style of writing about relationships. This book follows the same pattern in traveling back in time to a main character's youth so the reader sees what influences affected current life. Nature is a recurring theme and this is where Ms. Shipman's true writing gifts really lie; there's a real feel for the Michigan mountains, beaches, lakes, and especially foliage that one can't help but visualize while reading her books. (I know, V. Shipman is really Wade Rouse but anyway...) I can't wait to read his, um her, new book! I'd rate this a bit higher if it weren't a bit of a slow-going.
Ruth
A Distant View of Everything by Alexander McCall Smith
From McCall Smith's Isabel Dalhouse series. Delightful!
Gladys
The Bridesmaid by Julia London
This is a novella. It is very entertaining. Having just finished reading another book by Julia London that contains constant F--- words, it was truly a welcome surprise to not find a single F--- word in this book. The couple involved met due to travel problems and both decided it was fate.
Susan
This is How it Always Is by Laurie Frankel
I really enjoyed this book. Really makes you think about issues that are occurring in our world today. Definitely enlightening.
SHELLY
The Hawaiian Discovery by Wanda E. Brunstetter
Mandy and Ken had purchased a B&B two years ago after they were married. Mandy had met Ken when they got stuck in Hawaii and missed their ship. Thanks to the kindness of Luana and Makaio they stayed with them. During that time, Ken, delivered fresh eggs and poultry to the B&B. At first, Mandy enjoyed talking and seeing Ken when he stopped by. She did not realize that as time grew she had feelings for him. Mandy was expected to join the church when she returned home. Things do not always work out as they way you might of planned them. Now, they are happily married. Ken gets a call that his father is sick and they must return home to Hawaii. With nobody else to turn to they ask Ellen, her dear friend, to watch the B&B.
SHELLY
The Hawiian Quilt by Wanda E. Brunstetter
Mandy, Ellen, Sadie and Barbara have saved and planned this trip to Hawaii for almost a year. They were having fun and loved visiting all different tourist spots. One day, Mandy and Ellen decide to tour on their own. They miss the ship and are stranded on the island. With nowhere to go they are lucky to meet a couple who introduces them to Luana and Makaio who run a B&B.
They only plan on staying a few days so hopefully they can catch another ship to take them home. While staying with them an accident occurs and they both offer to stay longer to help out.
One day Ken who delivers the fresh eggs and poultry starts talking with Mandy. Mandy knows she has to return home but has feelings for Ken. What will happen?
Ruth
A Distant View of Everything by Alexander McCall Smith
Alexander McCall Smith at his best in the continuing Isabel Dalhousie series.
Nancy
Sulfur Springs by William Kent Krueger
Normally I would give one of his books a "5", however I did not like this one as much as usual. He took the setting out of Northern Minnesota. I did enjoy the story, but it did not seem right to have the book in a different setting.
Linda
Martin Marten by Brian Doyle
Although this is said to be a YA book, as a senior citizen I enjoyed it greatly. The story revolves around Martin, who is a pine marten, a member of the Mustelid family, and Dave, a teenage boy. They both live on Oregon's Mt. Hood. The story revolves around the somewhat parallel lives they lead in the small community of Zigzag and their various adventures. The characters of both humans and non-humans are richly drawn, leading to a sense of knowing them and experiencing the ups and downs of the various events of their lives. In a small community, both of humans and of non-humans, all lives intertwine and affect one another. The lessons learned are thoughtfully examined, and the joys and sorrows the characters experience become ours.
Lynnette
House of Sand and Fog by Andre Dubus III
Incredibly sad but beautifully-written story that speaks of prejudice and alcoholism and all the ramifications of these negative conditions.
Ivy
Before I Go To Sleep by S. J. Watson
What Watson has done with amnesia is enough to scare the blood out of any reader. When Christine loses her memory each new day is literally a new day in which she cannot remember yesterday. How she ended up in this state of mind is so shocking it warrants a big pause as in put the book down for a few before continuing to the end. Absolutely scary.
Deborah
Beauty in the Broken Places by Allison Pataki
This memoir is a very intimate, beautiful story of a love that knows no bounds. It exemplifies strength, commitment and compassion which actually "rose up" from the pages encompassing my soul. Received this book as an ARC from this site, and I want to thank you for the pleasure of reviewing such an uplifting memoir which renewed my faith in the human spirit, love and marriage.
Doreen
Evicted by Matthew Desmond
This was an eye-opening book about several families living in Milwaukee, WI. It shows how easy it is to be evicted from a home, and how it then becomes almost impossible to rent in a good neighborhood again. I learned so much about the poor. The author lived alongside some of these families, first in a trailer park and then in the inner city of Milwaukee. This was such an interesting book, not the kind I usually pick up.
Jill
The Atomic City Girls by Janet Beard
June joins her sister Mary in working at the Oak Creek, Tennessee facility of what would be revealed as part of the Manhattan Project, as she's attracted to the job's good pay. She, along with the others, monitored machines without knowing what she was working on. The book explores her reaction when she finds out the project's true nature from a physicist with whom she has an affair. Another parallel story details the experiences of Joe, an African-American man, working as a janitor there. The contrast between white and black salaries and living quarters are starkly portrayed. Beard gives us a fascinating portrait of the times and its impact on the characters and, indeed, our world today.
Tessa B C
The Turn of the Screw by Henry James
3.5 stars. A ghost story and psychological thriller. A young woman is hired to be governess to two young children, Miles and Flora. The governess is certain that some malevolent entity is intent on capturing the children in her care, and she is determined to prevent it from doing so. All the uncertainty and secrecy serve to increase the emotional tension in the story. It is dark, and puzzling, and disturbing.
Vera
The New Neighbors by Simon Lelic
After Jack and Syd had put in nine bids and were turned down for a home, finally got accepted on one. This was a surprise, since they had offered way below asking price. But this one is rather odd, the owner selling it complete with all the furnishings. First they got rid of lots of stuffed wildlife. Then had rooms and an attic to clean out. But they begin to notice smells that didn't seem right. Could the old house be holding secrets? The author keeps us interested. You never know what they will discover next during their cleaning out.
Marge
America's First Daughter by Stephanie Dray and Laura Kamoie
Great read...all 580 pages!
Jenna
When We Were Worthy by Marybeth Mayhew Whalen
Wor·thy, adjective - having or showing the qualities or abilities that merit recognition in a specified way. This book wasn't at all what I was expecting and perhaps that is why I was let down. I think my expectations for this book were too high. This was a character portrait about three people's lives who were drastically altered as a result of a fatal car crash. I thought there would be a lot more drama and I was let down. I would give this author another chance though.
Dorothy
I've Got My Eyes on You by Mary Higgins Clark
A good read. A young girl is found dead at the bottom of her swimming pool. I couldn't put it down - finished in 2 days. Who did it? You'll never guess right.
Karen
The Good Pilot Peter Woodhouse by Alexander McCall Smith
An uplifting story from the end of World War II. Val Eliot, a young English woman, who is a member of the land army is working on a farm owned by Archie Wilkinson. When she is delivering eggs to the Americans stationed near by, she meets Mike, an American pilot, and they fall in love. Val's distant relative, Willy, who rooms with Val's Aunt Annie works for another farmer, Ted Butters. Butters as well as farming raises border collies, but he is cruel to the dogs so one "runs away". Willy names him Peter Woodhouse, and Mike shelters the dog. He is the unit's mascot and is with Mike on a mission when the planes crashes. Mike is rescued and then befriends Ubi, a German soldier. It is a lifelong friendship benefiting both.
Donna
Small Great Things by Jodi Picoult
First let me say that I am a white woman who has many friends of color. I have never considered myself racist or prejudiced. That being said, this book was an eye-opening book for me. I am NOW more able to understand the plight of other races. A light black nurse is accused of murdering a newborn by a white supremacist couple that forbid her to touch their baby. This is a powerful and enlightening story.
Madeline
Dreaming of Manderley by Leah Marie Brown
January, 2018 DREAMING OF MANDERLEY arrives on my doorstep. Leah Marie Brown's rendition of Daphne du Maurier's REBECCA drew me in immediately. A fresh restyling bringing the characters into this century. Brown IS funny and engaging. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in her A Riches to Romance series, YOU'LL ALWAYS HAVE TARA, about her matchmaking sister. Manderley Maxwell has her hands full being the responsible older sister while her two younger, very spoiled sisters, Emma and Tara, lean on her for nearly everything. After Manderley's father and aunt perish prematurely leaving little behind but sweet memories and piling debt, Manderley needs an escape.
Lynn
The Red Notebook by Antoine Laurain
Delightful and charming romance set in Paris!
