Skip to main content

July 6, 2018 - July 20, 2018

This contest period's winners were Linda R., Linda Z. and Wendy J., who each received a copy of CLOCK DANCE by Anne Tyler and GIVE ME YOUR HAND by Megan Abbott.

 

Anita
Saints For All Occasions by J. Courtney Sullivan

4
This is the story of two sisters, Nora, age 21 and Theresa, age 17, who live their home in Ireland to come to America. They arrive in Boston where Charlie, Nora's boyfriend is waiting. They are to be married, and Theresa is planning to go to school to become a teacher. Plans don't work out exactly as planned. The book spans their lives from 1957 - 2009. An interesting family saga.

Elizabeth
The Last Ballad by Wiley Cash

3
THE LAST BALLAD is historical fiction about a poor female textile mill worker who one day in the 1920s walked off the job and joined the National Textile Workers Union. It is also about a certain one of their strikes in 1929 in North Carolina. The ex-mill worker was Ella May Wiggins, and that particular strike was the Loray Mill strike. These we know to be true because Wiley Cash says so in his “Afterword.” This is an interesting but depressing book.

Kathy
A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman

3
A grouchy 59-year-old widower wants to commit suicide but his nosy neighbors keep interfering.

Susan
The Paris Architect by Charles Belfoure

4
If you love historical fiction, you will love this book. This book shines light on many heroes from World War II.

Mary
Educated by Tara Westover

5
A memoir of self motivation filled with inspiring stories of Tara Westover's life that was full of parental obstacles.

Rosa
The Railwayman's Wife by Ashley Hay

5
I think Ashley Hay is my new favorite author. Set in New South Wales, Australia, soon after the end of WWII, this is the story of Mac and Ani Lachlan - a railwayman and his wife. It is a story about grief and rebirth, friendship and love, survival and surrender. In many ways this could be set in present-day America. One of the main characters in the story is Roy McKinnon, a war poet who has not found the words to write another poem after he returns from the war. Hay's writing is poetry in itself - her descriptions of the veterans' emotions as they try to re-enter society after what they experienced in the war are heartbreaking and brought me to tears. I savored all of her words. No speed reading with this book.

Debra
Women in Sunlight by Frances Mayes

4
I'd give this book 4.5 stars if I could. It's a perfect 5-star summer beach read, great escapist fantasy...who doesn't dream of running away to Italy (or wherever) and starting over?! It's a 4-star read in terms of believability...not quite enough "I didn't see that coming" dramatic moments. My copy was an uncorrected proof/advance reader's, however, so it may have changed in some ways before publication (April 2018).

Donna
Thr President is Missing by Bill Clinton and James Patterson

4
This book was surprisingly good. The fast pace moved the book right along and there were many interesting facts about life in the White House. My husband and I both enjoyed it.

Nancy
Alternative Remedies for Loss by Joanna Cantor

4
Surprised how much I enjoyed this book about a young woman who has lost her direction (of sorts) following the death of her mother and the seemingly quick recovery by her father and her brothers. It's a heavy subject, but an entertaining read, and we follow Olivia's adventures toward moving on with her life, in her own way. One of my favorite paragraphs: Since her mother's death, Olivia had found a perverse comfort in the fact that the worst had already happened. Nothing she could do, no mistakes she could make, could compete with losing her mom.

Pat
The Chilbury Ladies' Choir by Jennifer Ryan

5
A small Village in England during WWII. Written in diaries and letters. But very moving.

Janet
Alternate Sides by Anne Quindlen

3
I hate to say this because I usually love this author’s books, but this one was just kind of boring.

Kelley
The Life She Was Given by Ellen Marie Wiseman

5
Great read.

Elise
The Remains of the Day by Kazuo Ishiguro

5
Such a good story, and so well told.

Lory
Largesse of the Sea Maiden by Denis Johnson

2
I'm not a short story fan. I guess I have a hard time flowing from story to story, theme to theme, with varying characters; not sure. For this reason, I tried to digest this book in parts. Johnson's writing is good but the themes/plots were so weird (last story is titled "Doppelgänger, Poltergeist") I had a hard time making sense out of all of it. Out of the five short stories, I liked three. I wanted to like it more considering Johnson died prior to this work being published; maybe it was just too "deep" for me.

Lory
Sing, Unburied, Sing by Jesmyn Ward

3
This book was different, it held me in a way I did not expect. Ward brings the reader into a world in which nothing is predictable yet everyone behaves predictably. Her writing is different and is able to describe settings and situations concisely and with an air of simplicity. I had heard about the ghosts in this book and was weary about this piece, but felt they played a pivotal role and were inserted at the right moments and in a way that served to draw interest and strengthen the plot. It was a touching story of a family and of the individual struggles and challenges experienced by its members, connecting them but also keeping them apart. It didn't Wow me but I did like it.

Laurie
Number One Chinese Restaurant by Lillian Li

4
This novel gave me a detailed peek into the life of family, friends and staff at a Chinese restaurant including food and oh so much greed, discontent and chaos! Brava talented author, Lillian Li of Ann Arbor, Michigan -- we are proud of the Hopwood Award winner!

Diana
The Family Next Door by Sally Hepworth

4
The story occurs in England but could easily take place in any nation with a middle class. It focuses on the themes of nature vs.nurture and how biological siblings raised apart can still have bonds. Three of the four couples in the story have serious issues with heredity and the plot twist that is very well played out is very intense. I would definitely recommend the book to anyone looking for a book of fiction that is very thought-provoking but entertaining. The author has chosen a topic you don't often find in fiction.

Sheree
All That Matters: A Mother's Memories by Janis Hogan

4
I really enjoyed this book as she wrote of her life as a single mother raising two boys and hoping that they will turn out okay. She had the same experiences that all of us mothers have had raising our children and being children of our parents. She is someone I would have like to have hung out with as we raised our children together.

Marcia
A Land More Kind Than Home by Wiley Cash

5
One of the best books I've read in a long time. Two young brothers in the south, Jess and his brother, Christopher, get caught up in a crazy world. Their mother is a member of a snake-handling church with a charlatan preacher, Chamblis. They are having an affair and Christopher finds out more than he should. This book is wonderfully written. I couldn't put it down.

Marcia
The Woman in the Woods by John Connolly

5
(I'm reviewing a book I received an advanced copy of.) The body of a young woman who's just given birth is found buried in the woods. Her name is Karis, but that information and her story are revealed through the story. Parker is trying to solve who was after her and why. Loved this book and the characters were well written. One, and his companion, are very evil. Read it to find out the rest.

Marcia
Polio: An American Story by David M. Oshinsky

4
I'm writing a paper on polio and found this book so informative. I'm old enough to remember the fear of polio that came with the summer months. Our young people have no idea what polio was or the damage and death it wrought. This is a well-written book and a Pulitzer Prize winner.

Kathy
Something in the Water by Catherine Steadman

5
For being this author’s first book, it was a page-turner. Enjoyed this suspenseful book very much. I read that Reese Witherspoon bought the rights to this book to make it a movie; it would be a great movie. I look forward to her next book!!

Nancy
Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng

5
Thought-provoking and riveting story about how following the rules can lead to unintended consequences.

Jeffrey
Grant by Ron Chernow

5
A monumental feat of biography. The ending brought tears to my eyes. Even more than HAMILTON, this is his magnum opus.

Harriet
Red Clocks by Leni Zumas

4
Stories of five women living in a society which bans abortion and in vitro fertilization and grants full personhood rights to every embryo, as they wrestle with questions pertinent to women's existence. Interesting characters and dynamic plots.

Ruth
Warlight by Michael Ondaatje

5
A masterwork from one of the great writers of our time set in 1945 at the end of the war in London.

Kim
The #1 Ladies Detective Agency by Alexander McCall Smith

5
I watched the TV series years ago that was cancelled quickly after sadly tragedy struck some key people behind the scenes. However, it led me to the books and it's been a long time but I needed to visit my wise friend Mma Ramotswe. This is the kind of book where you wish the characters were your neighbors and you could have them sit on the porch and share a pot of bush tea or pumpkin with you. You will love the way the mysteries are solved with heart and logic ...and not how you would expect. I'm trying hard to read the series in order this go around - I only read a few last time and at random, and there has been more out since, so I have a lot of catching up to do on my book bucket list.

Sharon
The Kennedy Debutante by Kerri Maher

4
It was a fictional account of Kathleen Kennedy's life in London before WWII. If you loved Downton Abbey, you will love this book. Maher made me know what it was like to live during that period.

Jane
Good Heart by Alan Newman

4
I loved books about generations, especially Jewish families, and this was one of my favorites. Two friends from a small town in Indiana, Bobby and Danny, Bobby is Christian, Danny is Jewish, form a friendship over the years of their lives despite being different faiths and how Bobby's father was involved in the Holocaust himself. It evolves into their families, their lives, and ultimately, Bobby's friendship with Arnie in his later life in FL. Not going to spoil on how they met though. A wonderful book that will stay with me.

Berna
Trump Is F*cking Crazy by Keith Olbermann

5
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Keith Olbermann has a very conversational style of writing. He also has a wealth of information, including a prior personal relationship with Trump. He is uniquely qualified to give his observations and analysis of this incredibly difficult time in our history.

Berna
American Heiress by Jeffrey Toobin

3
I was a bit disappointed with this book. I was very interested in his commentary on Stockholm syndrome. However, he only briefly mentioned it on page 300 of his book. It appeared to me that he did not believe in this phenomena. Other than that, the book chronicles accurately the saga of the kidnapping of Patty Hearst.

Cindy
Educated by Tara Westover

5
An exceptional memoir by an outstanding writer. The book reads like fiction but is true. I look forward to whatever she writes next.

Dale
The Miracle Life of Edgar Mint by Brady Udall

5
Great book, writing is similar to John Irving whom our book club loves!

Jayme
Nothing to Envy: Ordinary Lives in North Korea by Barbara Demick

5
Barbara Demick's book is a painful, but necessary read for anyone who wants to understand what it is really like to live in North Korea. Through the eyes of six defectors we watch the corrupted repressive government destroy its own country in order to control the people. What I found heart-wrenching and unbelievable was how the North Korean government let one-fifth of its population starve to death in the famine of the 1990s. This is a gripping and disturbing book to read because it begs to ask - What were you doing in the 1990s when more than 2 million people starved to death in North Korea?

Jayme
Secrets of the Tulip Sisters by Susan Mallery

4
Just a typical chic-lit book filled with romance, friendship and happy endings - perfect for reading while floating in the pool on summer vacation.

Judy
Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate

5
Avery or Rill? Which time line do you like the most...Stories of two women separated by decades and yet there is a link between them that is a mystery needing to be solved by Avery. With the help of Trent (he becomes the new man in her life), she unlocks the connection between her grandmother Judy and May, both in nursing home. This is a wonderful story!!!

Rebecca
Southernmost by Silas House

5
I was completely drawn in by the descriptive passages and characters. I have always loved Silas House’s writing and this does not disappoint.

Sally-Jo
Elmet by Fiona Mozley

5
Stayed up late one night to finish this book. A good story of good vs. evil. Sad story but a story of love for your family. I wasn't clear what the mother's issue was. Very thought-provoking.

Tessa B C
Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi

4
A sweeping historical fiction that follows the descendants of two half-sisters over three hundred years. Trying to cover 300 years of history, on two continents, is an ambitious undertaking. Doing it in just over 300 pages is just about impossible. But Gyasi does a credible job. Each chapter focuses on a different character, moving the action forward generation by generation. This debut shows that Gyasi is an author to watch.

Elizabeth
Zeitoun by David Eggers

5
Amazing and shocking true story of a Syrian American’s unjust treatment by the federal government after Katrina. Very good.

Betty
A Twist in Time by Julie McElwain

5
Love this series - can’t wait to read #3! History, mystery, romance, time travel...who could ask for more!

Phyllis
The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah

4
I was expecting THE NIGHTINGALE, which is wonderful historical fiction, so this did not measure up, but I am glad I read it because of the fine descriptive language and character development. At first I thought it was too much of a soap opera, but the 70s and 80s in Alaska were very well written. The ending tied everything up neatly.

Sally
A Noise Downstairs by Linwood Barclay

4
A NOISE DOWNSTAIRS by Linwood Barclay is a must-read psychological thriller with so many twists and turns you’ll lose count. Is it somebody? Is it something? Does that typewriter have a mind of its own or are those voices from beyond? The cover says, “There’s a noise downstairs...and it’s not what you think,” and that’s about all you can say. And you will change what you think over and over and over. To say more would give it all away.

Debbie
We the Corporations: How American Businesses Won Their Civil Rights by Adam Winkler

5
This book is very well written. It follows the legal battles that led to Citizens United and Hobby Lobby in a very thoughtful way. The pictures in the book of various Supreme Court Justices, business tycoons, and lawyers helps to put a face to the text.

Charlene
Social Creature by Tara Isabella Burton

3
The story was heartbreaking, but I enjoyed the drama and seeing the character development unfold.

Maureen
The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah

5
She is a marvelous writer. I enjoy her books so much. Great storyteller. I also loved THE NIGHTINGALE.

Rebecca
The Book of Essie by Meghan MacLean Weir

5
I absolutely devoured this story, and when I wasn't reading it I was talking about it or wishing I was reading it. Essie and Roarke are intensely interesting characters, demonstrating resiliency and reclamation of power. I would love to see Liberty Bell have her own book and get to know even more of her story. A summer recommendation for those who believe that beach reading doesn't have to be thoughtless.

Simonne
Breaking the Rules by Barbara Taylor Bradford

2
Not one of Ms. Bradford’s better offerings - the lead is a gal named “M” - how silly. The dialog is ridiculous at times and plot pretty weak. A love story between a beautiful, flawless model and a too-handsome to be true actor.

Lynn
Tangerine by Christine Mangan

3
I don't read thrillers, but that jacket photograph: Suzy Parker in Morocco in 1953 -- beautiful, exotic, and irresistible! The story was okay. Chapters were told in alternating voices which was somewhat confusing, but that may have been the purpose since one character assumed the identity of the other. The author can be proud of her debut.

Kathy
Beartown by Fredrik Backman

3
Should have been a shorter book.

Marion
Love and Ruins by Paula McLain

2
I enjoyed McLain's book about Hemingway and his Paris wife, but this book about Martha Gelhorn was not as good. Their life and times did not measure up to the life they witnessed in Cuba, the States and Europe, especially during WWII. They seem to lead separate lives throughout and you wondered why they even got married.

Linda
Falling for the Highlander by Lynsay Sands

4
A young Scottish lass is under the guardianship of her half-brother when she hears him offer her as payment for two horses. Afraid he might sell her to a lecherous neighbor, she runs away but is rescued by a group of Scots who were hoping to sell the horses but are now returning to Scotland. Under their protection, she gets to the castle without being apprehended by her brother. During the ride, she got to know the group’s leader and they fell in love. But trouble was close on their heels. The character of Murine was the dumbest girl and it was hard to believe that Dougall fell in love with her. Fourth book in the Highlander series.

Linda
Surrender to the Highlander by Lynsay Sands

5
Saidh MacDonnell has sent messages inquiring about the health of her friend Edith Drummond but none of her messages have been answered nor has a messenger been allowed inside the castle. She talks her brothers into going to check on Edith. They arrive at the Drummond castle and find gates closed to them. Niels Buchanan talks the guards into opening the gate and letting his brother Rory, a healer, look at Lady Edith. She has been poisoned but survives. Her father and two older brothers were also poisoned and died. Niels is always by her side and promises to protect her. They have to find who the killer is before he strikes again and next time, he might succeed. This is the fifth book in the Highlander series.

Linda
Beartown by Fredrik Backman

5
The ice hockey team has a chance at the nationals and the small town of Beartown is fully supportive of their team. If they win, Beartown would have a chance to have a hockey academy built there that would bring in jobs to the area. A wild party is held at the home of the star player while his parents are away. This will have repercussions that are felt all over Beartown. Neighbors turn against neighbors and sides are taken. One girl claims rape and the young man claims it was not. Who will be believed? The young man is the star player and can put Beartown on the map if he is allowed to play. If he is jailed, the town will lose their chance to survive.

Linda
Shadow Rider by Christine Feehan

5
Stefano Ferraro is a shadow rider and dispenses justice when the justice system has failed. He is shocked one night when he sees a beautiful woman and his shadow reaches out to her. Her shadow reaches out to him and he realizes she is a shadow rider too. Francesca Capello is absorbed into the Ferraro family and feels safe for the first time in a long time. She left California after her sister was killed by Barry Anthon and he has destroyed her life with glee. Her pleas to the police went unanswered. She is scared that Barry will come after her but Stefano assures her she is safe. Then Barry arrives in Chicago. Is she truly safe from this monster?

Linda
Ballistic by Mark Greaney

5
Court Gentry, former CIA operative now being hunted on a shoot-to-kill order, has learned that an old friend who saved him from death in a Laotian prison has been murdered by a Mexican cartel. Paying his respects to the grave of Eduardo (Eddie) Gamboa, he meets Eddie’s family. During a memorial service, the family is under attack by local police in the pay of the Black Suits, corrupt Federales, and Black Suits themselves. Court is able to save some but others are gunned down. Daniel de la Rocha is leader of the Black Suits, a cartel whose main source of income is crystal meth. Daniel wants the unborn child being carried by Elena, Eddie’s wife, and is determined to do everything he can to kill the child. Court is determined otherwise.

Linda
Dead Eye by Mark Greaney

5
Court Gentry is known as the Gray Man, and a rogue operator named Russell Whitlock wants the distinction of being known as the man who killed the Gray Man. He develops a complex plan to kill the Prime Minister of Israel and have Court take the blame. But Court is not taken easily and is suspicious of Whitlock’s friendship. Court learns abut the infamous Townsend Government Services group and their relationship to Denny Carmichael, director of CIA and the man who has targeted Court with a kill-on-sight order. Court must stop the assassination and take down Whitlock at the same time he is avoiding death by Townsend’s assassins.

Linda
Undefeated by Jane Harvey-Berrick and Stuart Reardon

4
Nick Renshaw has suffered an injury during a rugby match resulting in surgery. As he is introduced to the team’s new sports psychologist, he finds himself strongly attracted to Dr. Anna Scott. But fraternization is strongly prohibited. When he goes to his best friend’s house, he sees a familiar car, the one he bought for his fiancé. He looks in the window and sees his fiancé having sex with his best friend. He goes berserk and fights with his friend. After he is arrested for assault, his ex-fiance vows revenge. She had seen Anna with Nick and thought they were together. Anna is dragged into the mess and her reputation is in jeopardy. Then Nick is let go from his team. How much worse can it get?

Linda
What Happens Under the Mistletoe by Sabrina Jeffries, Karen Hawkins, Candace Camp and Meredith Duran

5
Four novellas by each of the authors and the theme is Christmas and the magic of mistletoe. "The Heiress and the Hothead" by Sabrina Jeffries is about a journalist dedicated to improving working conditions in England's mills and he wants to interview an American woman who owns a textile mill in America. "Twelve Kisses to Midnight" by Karen Hawkins is about a couple who were formerly in love and are now in attendance at the same Christmas party. "By Any Other Name" by Candace Camp is about a young girl searching for her brother and she dresses as a young lad to do so. "Sweetest Regret" by Meredith Duran is about the daughter of a foreign diplomat and the young man who was courting her who was not good enough for her father.

Linda
The Fall Guy by James Lasdun

3
Matthew has been invited to spend the summer with his cousin Charlie at his summer house. He has always been jealous of Charlie who seemed to have everything going for him - a good job and a beautiful wife. When Matt sees Charlie's wife Chloe meet with another man, things are altered in the relationship among the three. Charlie wants Matt gone but doesn’t actually tell him to leave and Matt is happy to live off of his benevolence. Matt dreams of Chloe leaving with him but that is all it is, just a dream.

Linda
Flash of Fire by M. L. Buchman

3
A former helicopter pilot with the Arizona Air National Guard, Robin Harrow signs on with the Mount Hood Aviation Company to battle forest fires. There she meets Mickey Hamilton, another pilot who is a genuine outdoorsman. Sexual attraction blooms between the two. He falls in love with her but she is strongly independent and does not want a “forever”. Then the team is called upon to take part in a secret mission in the DMZ of North Korea and he has her back in a dangerous maneuver. She begins to rethink her independent stance.

Helen
The Blind Assassin by Margaret Atwood

4
A great read for book clubs.

Francisca E B
Animal, Vegetable, Miracle by Barbara Kingsolver, Steven L. Hopp, Camille Kingsolver and Lily Hopp Kingsolver

3
3.5 stars. Memoir of a year during which Kingsolver’s family vowed to eat only what they grew or could find locally available. I was surprised that I liked it as much as I did, though Hopp’s essays, in particular, left me feeling that I was being scolded. I was happy that Kingsolver included some very humorous vignettes (the stories of “turkey sex” and her 9-year-old’s entrepreneurship were particularly engaging).

Amanda
Shot in the Dark by Cleo Coyle

4
Love the series and always look forward to getting the next book.

Janet
News of the World by Paulette Jiles

5
A terrific story of human strength and courage. It was uplifting, being in the 70s age-bracket, to discover the possibilities one can call upon!

Gretchen
The President is Missing by Bill Clinton and James Patterson

4
I had given up reading Patterson when the book is co-authored. This one was better than most. Honestly, if a friend hadn't loaned me a copy I probably would have passed on reading it. Being a holiday week, it was an easy read to fill in some time.

Gretchen
The Bookshop of Yesterdays by Amy Meyerson

5
A refreshing book. Loved the scavenger hunt. The characters were so real.

Sandy
Heaven's Keep by William Kent Krueger

5
Wonderful book!! Kept me from housework!! Cork O'Connor faces the most harrowing mission of his life when a charter plane carrying his wife, Jo, goes missing in a snowstorm over the Wyoming Rockies. One of the best books I have read.

Lori
Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate

4
A bit predictable but an interesting read about a sad situation that I had not previously known about.

Susan
Swimming Between Worlds by Elaine Neil Orr

3
The history of integrating Winston Salem, NC is realistically covered describing the conflict and danger encountered by whites sympathetic to the cause. The pace was slow and the characters unengaging which disappointed me.

diane
The Kind Worth Killing by Peter Swanson

4
Great read and great twist.

Gladys
The Comfort of Black by Carter Wilson

4
Boy, talk about suspense and action! This book keeps the reader spellbound rushing to discover what could happen next.

Janet
The Identicals by Elin Hilderbrand

5
For a summer read it was perfect. I loved the setting, plot and characters.

Nancy
The Perfect Mother by Aimee Molloy

4
This is about a group of women who have new babies and meet an park every week with their babies. They all go out together one night, deciding they need some adult time without the babies. That night one of the babies goes missing. They must try to find this baby. Good reading.

Jola
The Outsider by Stephen King

5
I read this in 1.5 days. Awesome thriller by Stephen King.

Barbara
Still Life by Louise Penny

5
Wonderful characters living in a small Canadian town solving a murder.

Brady
The Other Side of Impossible by Susannah Meadows

4
There are a number of true stories where a family individual (usually a child, but not always) has some weird health problem that no one is able to correct, including doctors. Then the person or parent does a lot of researching and gets enough information to alleviate or sometimes cure the problem. It is interesting to learn what is done to have eventual success.

Patricia
Artemis by Andy Weir

5
Very compelling action novel of the settlement of Artemis, which is the first full time residence on the moon. I sure did learn about how earthlings are acclimated to low gravity but they managed to bring all the earth’s problems with them. A young heroine launches a plan to rid Artemis of the evil influences of organized crime while dealing with the technical limits of needing a constant source of oxygen. Thrilling read.

Sherri
Life is Like a Musical by Tim Federle

4
Short essays on lessons learned from being on Broadway - as a musical actor and teacher/coach. I thought some were very good and others so-so. Very interesting analogies to life in general from a specific area. We all could use the encouragement to be more kind and more grateful.

Lois
My Grandmother Asked Me to Tell You She's Sorry by Fredrik Backman

4
An unusual story of a granddaughter's role in the delivery of letters to a number of people after the grandmother has died. The plot is delivered through the contents of the letters and the people the granddaughter encounters through the letters. Many of them live in the same apartment building where they lived.

Jayme
The Anomaly by Michael Rutger

3
Alien meets Indian Jones meets Dan Brown meets "coming to a theater near you" in this interesting debut by screenwriter Michael Rutger. There is a nice mix of dialogue, humor, and not very scary adventure in this fast-paced book which leads me to believe that it may have been written with the intent of becoming a movie. This was a fun summer read.

Colleen
Witch Slapped by Dakota Cassidy

4
The plot has surprising twists and turns, the dialogue is witty and it made me laugh out loud. But Belfrey the bat is the star!

Karen
The Punishment She Deserves by Elizabeth George

5
A young deacon of the Anglican Church in Ludlow, Ian Druitt, dies in an understaffed police station. Suicide is said to be the cause. His father doesn't think this is true so he goes to the MP of the area and asks him to have the Met review the investigation. DS Barbara Havers is sent with her boss, DCS Ardrey to do the review. Ardrey expects the review to be completed in a few days. Havers finds that the original investigation has some problems, but Ardrey doesn't allow her to continue until she is forced to by the MP and her boss. Havers returns with Inspector Lynley, and their investigation uncovers clues that point to murder. Next they look for the motive and who really committed the crime and why.

Ivy
The Comedown by Rebekah Frumkin

3
I struggled to get through this long and circuitous journey which traveled back and forth in time dragging these poor souls all over the place only to end up with no solid ending. I give Frumkin credit, though, for her writing skills.

Susan
Us Against You by Fredrik Bachman

5
Wonderful book, great writer, great characters. Loved all his books.

Kate
Ghosted by Rosie Walsh

4
This book had some serious "holy-crap" shockers! I was riveted from start to finish, gobbled up every word, and felt like I got smacked in the face several times with total blindsiding plot twists! Sarah's been ghosted. Eddie and her had a fabulous week with promises to stay in touch and then...he's just GONE. I really enjoyed this (as much as I wanted to smack the living daylights out of the main character, Sarah and tell her to "stop it, he's just a dude! dudes do this sort of thing ALL the time!"), but I really did have a great time with this book! It's interspersed with texts, and letters and flips between characters really seamlessly and it's worth a read just for the really shocking and fun blindsides. Definitely recommend!

Marion
The Secret Daughter by Shilpi Somaya Gowda

4
An interesting tale about adoption and India. Two American doctors adopt a baby from India. The father of the child is Indian. The book goes back and forth between America and India and the adopted daughter’s growing up to adulthood. It ends when the child is an adult. The book gives a good picture of what it would have like if the girl had grown up with her birth parents.

Burma
The Perfect Nanny by Leila Slimani

5
This book was so creepy and suspenseful. The suspense was not in your face, it was very subtle. That was a nice change of pace. This book will make you very leary of leaving your children with anyone you don't know very well. Loved this and highly recommend!

Pat
The Chilbury Ladies' Choir by Jennifer Ryan

5
A village in England during the WWII where the Vicar said no more choir. But the ladies of the village say we can do it. A good story!

Shelia
The Prince of Frogtown by Rick Bragg

5
Well I'm for certain in love with Rick Bragg now...nevermind that he is married, has trouble with that emotion, or is ten years my junior! He knows how to tell a story -- the story of the South -- OUR story -- MY story. In many ways it was like secretly reading my heritage. One side of my people come from the Appalachian area during that time and were just about as poor. As far as bootlegging, don't know for sure, but certainly the same religious background, mannerisms, sayings, and certain myths and beliefs, and not to be outdone, the same family dysfunctions. I could feel his pain, confusion, and longing. That it has taken a lifetime to put a rest or at least get some semblance of peace is evidently not unusual.

Lisa
The Home For Unwanted Girls by Joanna Goodman

4
Loved this book! I really got into the storyline and characters. I also enjoyed learning more about the setting.

Bonnie
The Long Haul by Finn Murphy

3
Enjoyable, quick read, but something was missing. Little personal information. I'd like to know how truckers manage a home life with their work life. What about all the stories of human trafficking at truck stops?

MARILYN
A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles

5
This was a challenging read but promoted a delightful conversation among our members. We liked the way Towles drew us into the agony of house arrest contrasted with desire for release.

Dorothy
Before and Again by Barbara Delinsky

3
Mackenzie Cooper was in a bad auto accident that killed her daughter and her marriage. She was put on probation and moved to Vermont, changed her name and made new friends. A friend's teenage son is accused of hacking a man's twitter account. Does she get involved? Yes. It wasn't a great book but once I started I had to finish. A lot of twists and turns.

Laurie
The Emperor of Shoes by Spencer Wise

4
Extremely creative novel and humorous at times -- very colorful voice vivid characters and quite a storyline.

Diane
All We Ever Wanted by Emily Giffin

3
A good summer read. This has a good storyline with a timely message.

Patricia
Ohio by Stephen Markley

4
Four former classmates return to their rust belt home town in Ohio. Their lives were spinning out of control when they were in junior high school, so it is no surprise that their late twenties find them down and out. Each of the four is presented in his/her own separate section, combining their past and present. Sex, drugs, alcohol and bad character are being attributed to outside causes when the blame belongs with the personal choices they made. I received an ARC from Simon and Schuster so I am giving it my full attention, even though it is not to my personal taste. At almost 500 pages, it is a chore to read about such unlikable characters.

Betty
A Twist in Time by Julie McElwain

5
The second in a series, has everything a reader could want -- history, mystery, romance, and time travel. I can’t wait to read #3!

Paige
Jar of Hearts by Jennifer Hillier

5
Great book from the first chapter. Many unexpected twists.

Connie
Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate

4
The story was interesting and something I did not know about - how many years ago children were taken from their homes to be adopted out to wealthy families.

Richard N B
Prisoners of Geography by Tim Marshall

3
3.5 stars. I’ve always been relatively good at geography, and I made my career in international business. Still, I wouldn’t say I’m particularly interested in or fascinated by the geography. Until now. I was pleasantly surprised at how very readable and understandable Marshall’s work is. I quickly became engaged in the way he outlined the benefits and challenges of various geographical features.

Lynn
The Woman in the Water by Charles Finch

4
This is a prequel to the Charles Lenox series, one of my favorites. Loved reading how the 23-year-old aristocrat "bucked" tradition and founded a new profession -- private detective.

Donna
The Enemy Inside by Steve Martini

4
Political corruption, off-shore funds, murder and murder for hire keep you turning the pages of this book. Well done.

Sandy
Hanna Who Fell From the Sky by Christopher Meades

5
Very entertaining story of Hanna. She has never been outside her secluded community of Clearhaven. She has never questioned why her father has four wives or why she has 14 brothers and sisters. And in only one week on her 18th birthday she will follow tradition and become the 5th wife of a man more than twice her age.

Alyson
Harry's Trees by Jon Cohen

5
Things I loved: Harry, the audiobook version, human connection overcoming loss, a feisty librarian character and the trees!

Shelia
The Prince of Frogtown by Rick Bragg

5
The third and last of a trilogy of his family and heritage in northeastern Alabama. A rare look at the hardships dealt to the poor mountain people and their endurance as cotton-pickers into the 1960s! They were hardscrabble people who didn't ask for handouts, a safe room, or luxuries. Just to be treated fairly with dignity, respect, and the intelligence nobody thought they had.

Tessa B C
The Cuckoo's Calling by Robert Galbraith

4
Galbraith is the pseudonym of J. K. Rowling, and this book proves that she knows how to craft a compelling story. I really liked Strike as a lead character, but I really loved his assistant, Robin. These two make a great team. The plot is suitably complex, with plenty of red herrings to confuse and misdirect both Strike and the reader. I’ll definitely continue with this series.

Sandra
Love and Ruin by Paula McLain

5
There have been many books on Ernest Hemmingway but this is one of the best I have read so far. It is the story of Martha Gelhorn, his second wife, and their relationship and marriage. She was a very independent woman who wanted recognition of her own but seemed to always take a back seat to him. A very good historical novel from a very good writer.

Sheila
Make Me Even and I'll Never Gamble Again by Jerrold Fine

4
Really interesting story about a young, extremely young, man coming of age. I highly recommend this book.

Kate
A Life Unexpected by Alison Ragsdale

4
Explores the mother-daughter relationship. Very moving.

Minnie
Checkmate by David Alan

5
Outstanding suspense thriller - nail biter. Couldn't put the book down.

Mary
Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate

4
A heart wrenching story about the Tennessee Children's Home Society and its director, Georgia Tann.

Nancy
Make Me Even and I'll Never Gamble Again by Jerrold Fine

4
If you're a business school graduate or have an understanding of how stocks are analyzed, you'll love this book. If neither description applies to you, you'll still enjoy reading it and learning about how Wall Street works. There's something here for everyone: it's a love story. It's a coming-of-age tale. It's a bit of a how-to on playing poker. And there's even some Shakespearean references. The author is a Wharton Business School grad, so he knows about what he writes. At times he got too technical for me, but, for the most part, I found the book fascinating and I came away with a much better understanding of how stocks are picked and traded.

Karen
Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand

4
At 1100 pages, plus or minus, ATLAS SHRUGGED is well worth the time to read it. Set in a futuristic world, Rand wonderfully expresses how what appears to be a good thing (socialism), can turn into a disaster, even for those promoting it. When the backbone of American industry cracks under the strain, the "evil" capitalists revolt --- and what a revolt it is!

Carol
All We Ever Wanted by Emily Giffin

4
Marriage, divorce, cyber bullying, lies, deceit --- this book has all that and more. It would seem there are too many topics for one book to cover, but this beautifully written novel manages to tie everything together smoothly. The characters are believable, as are the situations in which they find themselves. The story is well told and I was glad to see a satisfactory finale, but also that the author avoided a cliched ending.

Allison
His Last Letter: Elizabeth I and the Earl of Leicester by Jeanne Westin

5
Great story about Queen Elizabeth I.

Laurie
Somebody’s Daughter by Rochelle B. Weinstein

4
A coming of age family saga set in Miami Beach in an elegant ocean front hotel. It deals with a mistake by one of the 15-year-old twin daughters, a victim of cyber abuse. There are several excellent themes for book clubs.

Dale
The Miracle Life of Edgar Mint by Brady Udall

5
Loved this book! Edgar is a character that you fall in love with and cry for. The ending was not what I had expected but was glad for.

Karen
A Piece of the World by Christina Baker Kline

4
Interesting story about the background of the woman in Andrew Wyeth's most famous painting.

Nancy
Behold The Dreamers by Imbolo Mbue

4
I enjoyed this book.

Lani
Fruit of the Drunken Tree by Ingrid Rojas Contreras

5
Set in Bogota, Columbia, the story is told in alternating chapters from the perspective of Chula, a 7-year-old girl and Petrona, a 14-year-old teenager who cleans the house for Chula and her family. Superstitions permeate the novel, governing the extended family's attitude toward life. In addition, the violence of the time colors every word and sentence affecting how the children play, what outside activities they indulge in and what roads they can travel.

Ursula
The Last Mrs. Parrish by Liv Constantine

5
Riveting. Stayed up late to finish!

Carol
The President is Missing by James Patterson and Bill Clinton

5
A long book....wordy at the beginning and the end but it kept you reading in the middle! Felt President Clinton lent a real edge to the story with details only a president might know of.

Mary
The Overstorey by Richard Powers

5
This is my favorite novel of the year. It is a long satisfying read. I have trouble describing it. Beautifully written, complex...a fresh look at the interaction and connections of life on our fragile planet.

Alice
Eleanor and Hick: The Love Affair That Shaped a First Lady by Susan Quinn

3
While it was historical and interesting, it was very repetitive.

Elizabeth
Need To Know by Karen Cleveland

4
A CIA researcher uncovers secretly coded email files from Russia, showing the faces of five sleeper agents working in the U.S. One face is that of her husband. This thriller has lots of twists and turns. It kept my interest until the last page!

Paula
Make Me Even and I'll Never Gamble Again by Jerrold Fine

4
In this novel, a young man (college aged) shares his knowledge of the stock market and its workings. It tells of life lessons from his dad's wisdom that help him through some difficult times. Intertwined within the novel is his relationships with two women who share his enthusiasm for learning and experiencing all that life can offer.

Nina
The Paris Architect by Charles Belfoure

4
Life during the occupation of Paris during the war is the central theme of THE PARIS ARCHITECT. The Jews were fleeing the city with their money and valuables. One wealthy gentleman provided shelter and hiding places. He was able to convince an architect to create ingenious hiding places within various homes for those being persecuted. The book was educational and intriguing.

Sharon
Death of a Macho Man by M. C. Beaton

4
A fun romp through the Scottish Highlands.

Sharon
Death of a Dreamer by M. C. Beaton

3
This is the second time I've read this one (all by accident of course), but it held up despite being a repeat. Hamish Macbeth is the local policeman in Lochdubh, a village in the Highlands of Scotland. It does seem that many of those who come to that area for the atmosphere find themselves in terrible straits, such a death, and it is up to Hamish to solve the murder even as he has to move around his nemesis, Blair.

Elizabeth
Sweetbitter by Stephanie Danler

4
A young and naive 22-year-old moves from a small Midwest town to NYC, and lands a job as a back waiter in one of the most prestigious restaurants in the city. What follows is her awakening: sexual, culinary and intellectual. Imbibing in alcohol and cocaine, she makes many poor decisions and it was difficult to read this book without screaming at her in my mind. Yet I couldn't stop reading it.

Susan
The Death of Mrs. Westaway by Ruth Ware

4
Ruth Ware reminds the reader of the difference between the mystery and the thriller genre. This novel is a slower paced mystery with clues parceled subtly. In this story, we are not aware there is a crime until near the end, but are instead tracing the parentage of Hal who receives a letter regarding an inheritance from a family she did not know existed. Patience is required as the characters develop as much of the plot takes place within the Gothic confines of the family estate where danger lurks.

Lisa
Auntie Poldi and the Sicilian Lions by Mario Giordano and John Brownjohn

3
A fun summer read, especially if you enjoy Italian culture. Not great literature, but it is light, humorous and entertaining.

Kathy
The Perfect Couple by Elin Hilderbrand

5
Love all of her books! She does a great job developing her characters. Having a murder in her book was different, but it’s the characters' lives that keep me reading.

Jayme
Frenchman’s Creek by Daphne du Maurier

4
No one can set the mood and tone of a story like Daphne du Maurier. The more I read her work the more I appreciate her talent. Worth reading.

Jayme
Thinking in Pictures: My Life with Autism by Temple Grandin

2
This book was a struggle to read. Though I admire Temple Grandin and what she has accomplished in her life, the writing was all over the place and repetitive. I was expecting a memoir, but ended up reading mostly about her opinions on autism and cows.

Margie
Limelight by Amy Poeppel

5
This is a terrifically fun read about a family that moves from suburban Dallas to NYC for the husband's new job as an attorney. Allison, the wife, suddenly loses her job as a substitute teacher and accidentally finds herself as the personal assistant to an 18-year-old Pop superstar (think Justin Bieber) who wants to renege on his contract to star in a Broadway musical based on the Charlie Chaplin film, Limelight. At the same time, the parents and three children in this family are trying to decide whether to stick with the frenetic NYC lifestyle or to opt for the suburbs. All of the characters are sharply drawn and evolve as the story progresses. Highly enjoyable.

Bob
Hidden Order: A Thriller by Brad Thor

5
This book serves as a history lesson about our current federal reserve. It caused me to look up things and do my own research on this subject.

Ann
Still Life by Louise Penny

4
A great start to this series.

Janet
The Blood Of Lorraine by Barbara Corrado Pope

5
A riveting read set in 1890 France and the persecution of the Jewish people in the Alsace-Lorraine region. The story grips one's heart with love and loss and perseverance.

Kelley
The Life She Was Given by Ellen Marie Wiseman

5
A great story. I couldn't put it down!

Claire
The Garment Maker’s Daughter by Hillary Adrienne Stern

4
Very enjoyable read. Covers the story about the Shirtwaist Fire in NY where 150 women died. The love story about Lena and Jake is very sad.

Susan
Beneath a Scarlet Sky by Mark Sullivan

5
If you like historical fiction, you will love this book.

Donna
Manhattan Beach by Jennifer Egan

4
Interesting story that takes place in New York during World War II. I especially enjoyed reading about the history of the region, the gangland connection and the lives of the women working at the Naval Shipyard.

Karen
After Anna by Lisa Scottoline

3
I enjoyed the intrigue until near the end when things seemed too improbable. It was a unique plot about an imposter daughter trying to appear as a long-lost daughter.

Ilene
The Collector's Apprentice by B. A. Shapiro

5
I was so glad to receive THE COLLECTOR'S APPRENTICE. I loved reading it and learned so much about art and artists during the 1920s. It starts with 19-year old Paulien Merten, from Brussels, in Paris taking art lessons when she meets the dashing George Everard, a ruthless conman. Knowing she comes from a wealthy family that owns a large and valuable art collection, George makes sure Paulien falls in love with him. They soon become engaged. All her family and friends fall for his scam. What will become of Paulien's future?

Ruth
The Bookshop of Yesterdays by Amy Meyerson

4
Intriguing novel about a long kept secret. You will not want to put it down.

Kristen
The Radium Girls: The Dark Story of America's Shining Women by Kate Moore

4
This was a tough one to read, but it's very well written and informative.

Patrice
Gun Street Girl: A Detective Sean Duffy Novel by Adrian McKinty

5
I read the the first four books in this series, and overall McKinty is a fine author. This particular book is set in Ireland during the 1980s, and like the rest of this series, it is also very good.

Gretchen
The High Tide Club by Mary Kay Andrews

5
A great beach read. Wonderful characters. A mix of Southern living, mystery and drama.

Gretchen
The Escape Artist by Brad Meltzer

4
Not my favorite of Brad Meltzer's books. I couldn't get into the whole story of Nola's adoptive father, Royall, being involved with Blue Book.

Julie
Saving CeeCee Honeycutt by Beth Hoffman

5
A feel-good book that is full of interesting and zany characters. Twelve-year-old CeeCee 's aunt Tootie truly saves her by bringing her into a world of southern charm, gracious homes and a totally different way of life than CeeCee is used to when her beauty queen mother is killed by an ice cream truck.

Pam
The Woman in the Window by A. J. Finn

2
This was a disappointment for me. I enjoyed the beginning when we meet Anna Fox, an agoraphobic psychiatrist who spies on her neighbors through her Nikon camera. Unfortunately, we soon realize that she's not reliable and we can't believe everything she's telling us about her life as she pops pills and combines that with an overindulgence of Merlot. It wasn't hard to guess where the disconnect was in her life, or to guess who was manipulating Anna's version of reality.

Elaine
Waking Lions by Ayelet Gundar-Goshen

3
A young Israeli doctor lies about a hit-and-run and the man’s wife turns up at his door with his wallet. She forces him to turn a decrepit garage into a clinic treating sickly immigrants from Africa. The lies continue until it is hard to believe anyone but the doctor’s wife, a police detective.

Betty
The Word is Murder by Anthony Horowitz

5
A fun, fictional read that reads like true crime. I think Horowitz had fun writing this. A woman arranges her funeral and is murdered the next day. What a plot!

Lory
The Perfect Mother by Aimee Molloy

3
I had high expectations for this book, but I have to say I was a bit disappointed. A newborn mothers' group rallies together to try and uncover who kidnapped one member's son. The connection these mothers felt towards solving this kidnapping, and their gumption, didn't make sense as they didn't know Winnie (the mother whose son was stolen), and didn't even continue communicating with her throughout their investigation. It was just hard to understand why they would become so obsessed with this as opposed to becoming more overprotective of their own babies. Either way, Molloy was very good at deceiving the reader, and alternating the voices between the unnamed kidnapper, the novice and the detective mothers. Overall it was alright.

Elaine
Number One Chinese Restaurant by Lillian Li

2
A Chinese family opens a restaurant funded by a Chines gangster with many connections who demands money every month for his assistance. The payments continue into a second generation with the destruction by fire of the first restaurant, and the quarreling widow and her sons trying to make a go of a second one. Violence, sex and family dysfunction.

Susan
Bring Me Back by B. A. Paris

3
I thought I was going to enjoy this book, but halfway through it became disappointing.

Lana
Mississippi Blood: The Natchez Burning Trilogy by Greg Iles

4
The third book of the trilogy was much better than the second. The author appears to leave the door open for a follow-up book, but I will not state why as don't want to spoil it. The book was entertaining, but it won't go on my list of all-time greatest reads.

Lana
The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah

4
This is another book selected by my book club. I did have it saved on my Nook, but hadn’t yet read it in the 2 years since I had purchased it at a reduced price. Fortunately, my book club chose it as our most recent read. I enjoyed reading this book about the French Resistance movement in WWII from the point of view of the women involved. I appreciated that it showed the equal partnership of men and women in the movement. The beauty of the way of life in the French countryside was engaging and the strength of the French people during the war was inspiring. The book had no problem keeping my interest. My book club read THE GREAT ALONE three to four months ago, and I must say that Kristin Hannah is becoming one of my favorite authors.

Kathy
The Loney by Andrew Michael Hurley

4
I liked the book, but there are unanswered questions in the end. Nevertheless, this tends to be the way with fantasy and horror novels.

Barbara
By Invitation Only by Dorothea Benton Frank

3
I am a loyal reader of Frank's novels, but this one left me feeling flat. While the story line was alright, the characters were underdeveloped, and I really missed the descriptions of South Carolina's Low-country that she usually incorporates into her stories. The family relationships were too "sweet," and the challenges of distance --- both in travel and in relationships --- were too easily worked out. Diane's insistence on refraining from getting involved with a man again was just too superficial. I like watching Frank's protagonists struggle, and Diane seemed unfazed by the loss of her father, her son's upcoming wedding, a wacky brother, an odd love and a storm. Shouldn't there have been more drama?

Terri
The President is Missing by James Patterson and Bill Clinton

5
Absolutely loved it. The kind of suspense only James Patterson can deliver. Bill Clinton brought out the best of James Patterson. Looking forward to another collaboration.

Gloria
The Cottages on Silver Beach by RaeAnne Thayne

5
A great book. I love reading RaeAnne Thayne's novels. She writes with feeling and cares about the opinion of her readers.

Lynn
Nothing Daunted: The Unexpected Education of Two Society Girls in the West by Dorothy Wickenden

4
Dorothy Woodruff and Rosamond Underwood are Smith College graduates of the class of 1909, yet even after a year in Europe they are still not ready to be bored by tea parties, charity work and effete men courting them in Auburn, NY. They are hired as school teachers in the raw frontier of northwestern Colorado. From letters and diaries of her grandmother and best friend, Ms. Wickenden writes a superb book of two daring and courageous women living and working in the still-wild West.

Theresa
The Good Pilot Peter Woodhouse by Alexander McCall Smith

5
This story touched me in many ways. It affirmed my belief in the power of love. It demonstrated how friendship can blossom in the most unlikely places. It showcased the resilience of the human spirit in times of great turmoil. It gave a personal, honest voice to individuals impacted by war, those who served on both sides as well as those left at home struggling to survive. Forgiveness is never easy, but McCall Smith treats it believably and realistically. This book is a good read that will have you sharing a variety of emotions with its characters!

Theresa
The Lido by Libby Page

5
I want a Lido in my life. What a great story! You’ll come to love Rosemary, Kate, Jay and all the others whose lives are touched by this oasis in the middle of a big city. You’ll struggle along with them as they fight to prevent the loss of yet another well loved part of their neighborhood and its history. You’ll delight in the enduring romance of Rosemary and George. You’ll root for Kate as she wrestles with her demons. And you’ll await the outcome with bated breath!

Erin
Campaign Widows by Aimee Agresti

4
I really enjoyed this book. It felt a bit like the Real Housewives of Campaign Season. I loved the friendships that developed and really enjoyed Cady and Parker's story line. A fun, light read for political junkies.

Patricia
Hope Never Dies: An Obama Biden Mystery by Andrew Shaffer

5
This is a very good murder mystery and laugh-out-loud funny. VP Joe Biden sets out to solve a mysterious death with the help of his best bud, President Obama. They team up to take on the bad guys as bodies turn up and a murderous biker drug cartel becomes part of the problem. It is well-written, fast-paced and a must-read.

Janell
The Promise by Susan Lantz Simpson

5
This is an entertaining and interesting book. I loved reading it.

Dianne
We Own The Sky by Luke Allnutt

5
A beautifully written book about a young couple and how their only child is diagnosed with a serious illness. The author brings you into the story as though you are living side by side with the characters. Very moving and a quick read.

Francisca
Beartown by Fredrik Backman

4
A character wonders: “What are principles worth, if you don’t win?” That may be the essence of this novel, set in a small town where hockey is everything. This is definitely a departure from the kind of novels that have made Backman an international literary star. No cranky old men or grandmothers who spin fantasy adventure tales here. But you will recognize Backman’s gift for drawing characters --- good, bad, young, old, talented young people and alcoholic have-beens.

Jill
Don't Let Go by Harlan Coben

5
This is the story of Nap, a man who comes home and reckons with the past to try and figure out why his twin brother and his girlfriend were murdered when they were high school seniors on the cusp of graduation. The answer lies partly in the New Jersey missile silos that were scattered throughout the state during the Cold War, then abandoned. An intriguing mystery with a likeable protagonist. Ten times better than Cohen's previous novel, HOME, which was terrible. He's redeemed himself as far as I'm concerned.

Iris
Educated: A Memoir by Tara Westover

5
Great read! Becoming educated is much more than brick and mortar schools. Tara Westover must be one of the most resilient, intelligent individuals ever. It is amazing that she survived her "education"!

Sandy
Hold Tight by Harlan Coben

4
Mike held his son's hand and told him to "hold tight" --- he could feel the little hand dig into his, but the little hand slipped from his and Mike felt that horrible panic, as if a wave hit them at the beach and it was washing his baby out with the tide. The separation lasted only a few seconds, 10 at most, but Mike would never forget the spike in his blood and the terror of those brief few moments. Several different plots in this book, but it all comes together in the end.

Jayne
The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead

5
An amazing book about slavery and the conditions at that period of American history.

Rocky T
Rogue Lawyer by John Grisham

3
I've read almost every John Grisham book and this is one of my least favorites. The characters don't grab the reader the way they usually do and our "hero" is sort of an anti-hero and not a whole lot likable. Broken down into sections with a main story and some continuation, each story could pretty much stand alone. Too long for actual short stories, since I think there are six stories in the book, they weren't anywhere near as riveting as my latest favorite Grisham book, SYCAMORE ROW (which I highly recommend!). If you are a Grisham fan I would read it, if you are not you could skip it and if you've never read any of his books please don't start with this one!

Wendy
The Secrets Between Us by Thrity Umrigar

5
A powerful follow up to THE SPACE BETWEEN US. You will laugh and cry. Once again, her characters come to life and you feel like you know them personally. After reading this I had to take a little break before starting my next book.

Liz
A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles

5
Gorgeous story about a Count under house arrest for 20 years in a full service Moscow hotel. The main character is insightful, compassionate and a great conversationalist. He forms several tight bonds with employees and other hotel residents. Through his stories we learn much about the Russian Revolution in a delightful and engaging manner.

Martha
The Patchwork Bride by Sandra Dallas

4
The novel opens with Ellen and Ben, now in their later years. Their granddaughter has run away from her fiancée days before her wedding. Ellen puts the last pieces into a wedding quilt, and tells June about Nell who fell in love and was asked to marry three different times but ran away before any weddings occurred. There really wasn’t much action in this novel --- except in the stories of Nell. What I liked most were the characters --- especially Nell and Buddy. The dialogue was realistic. Nell's decision-making seemed authentic. The setting was realistic. The patchwork wedding quilt sounded beautiful. There was lots of romance, history and a few moments of suspense and mystery in this novel.

Linda
A Gathering of Secrets: A Kate Burkholder Novel by Linda Castillo

5
Loved this book and this series. I read it in one day.

Carol
The Blood Card (Magic Men Mysteries) by Elly Griffiths

4
An excellent mystery set in Post World War II England. Engaging characters and a hint of magic, as well as mystery. The entire series is well worth reading.

Betty
The Summer Wives by Beatriz Williams

4
Another fabulous book by Beatriz Williams. A great beach read. This book is about the clash of two cultures --- the rich, privileged summer families and the immigrant working class local families who live on the island year round. The interaction between these cultures sets us up for intrigue, mystery, and romance. Set on exclusive Winthrop Island off the New England Coast, the book alternates between the 1930s with the story of the love affair between a local year-round resident girl and her rich lover, and the 1950s and 60's with Miranda Schuyler’s story.

Nicolette
The Flight Attendant by Chris Bohjalian

5
Like most good mysteries, THE FLIGHT ATTENDANT not only had me wondering what happened, but why. When I was only halfway through the story, without answers to either question, I thought I lost access to my electronic copy of this novel. I spent months wondering “what ever happened,” so I was elated to find that I could recover my copy! Perhaps this built up the suspense more than a normal situation but I was very pleased not just with knowing what happened but also why and how. The ending did not disappoint. I will be looking into more novels by Mr. Bohjalian.

Helen
Same Kind of Different as Me by Ron Hall and Denver Moore

4
True story of an unlikely friendship that became a blessing to an entire community. A good read.

Tessa
Lord Edgware Dies:A Hercule Poirot Mystery by Agatha Christie

3
Hercule Poirot and his faithful sidekick Colonel Hastings have their work cut out for them. All the suspects, the conflicting stories and the “little grey cells” get a workout! Christie writes wonderful characters, even if she uses stereotypes that are jarring to modern sensibilities. She’s also very good at crafting intricate plot twists. These mysteries are my go-to reading “comfort food.”

Linda
The Nest by Cynthia D'Aprix Sweeney

3
I enjoyed the story of the Plumb family as they learn that brother Leo has been given a large portion of the family trust money. Leo is a likable, life-of-the-party guy but he has a dark, moody side. The book moves along quickly and I enjoyed getting to know the characters who are well developed and relatable.

Lisa
Then She Was Gone by Lisa Jewell

5
Excellent read! Well written, multi-dimensional characters. A mother's nightmare comes true! The combination of Laurel trying to find her missing daughter, and the people she meets along the way, leads to a dynamic ending! Suspenseful and thrilling --- you will love this book!

Elizabeth
Burning Down the Haus by Tim Mohr

3
The subtitle of BURNING DOWN THE HAUS, PUNK ROCK, REVOLUTION, AND THE FALL OF THE BERLIN WALL, may lead you to believe, as it did me, that this book makes the case for punk rockers causing the fall of the Berlin Wall. But no, not exactly. Rather, the messages in punk rock songs and the attitude of the punk rockers contributed (just partially or in large part depending on who tells the story) to the fall of the Berlin Wall. Tim Mohr’s research for this book was mostly through his contacts with punk rockers and former punk rockers. Therefore, the book was written from their perspective and sometimes even sounds like a punk rocker wrote it, swear words (particularly the F word) and all.

Gil
All the King's Men by Robert Penn Warren

5
This is a political classic and winner of a Pulitzer Prize. Although written in 1946, it could very well have been written today. It is all about corruption in politics. Willie Stark is the main character and he rose from humble beginnings to become governor. At first he did good things but then got caught up in his own success. I enjoyed reading it and recommend it for anyone interested in politics.

Angie
The Girl Who Smiled Beads: A Story of War and What Comes After by Clemantine Wamariya

5
THE GIRL WHO SMILES BEADS is a moving and inspiring memoir about trauma, regaining a sense and understanding of herself, the kindnesses and cruelties of humanity and what it means to be human. There were so many passages that I highlighted because I want to re-read them and think about them again, and I absolutely recommend it.

Betty
America for Beginners by Leah Franqui

4
If you enjoyed Fatima Farheen Mirza’s A PLACE FOR US, I highly recommend AMERICA FOR BEGINNERS. Three misfits set out on a journey across America, a journey of evolution, and are changed forever. As Pival, Rebecca, and Satya make their way across the country they are challenged by their cultural and generational differences. But they begin to evolve in their own self-growth and learn to see the world through someone else’s eyes. They learn to appreciate the qualities the others have to offer. Barriers come down, animosities are forgotten, and true bonds are formed. There is humor, heartbreak, forgiveness, and acceptance. This story isn’t about where they travel but rather the voyage itself.

Sean
The One Minute Manager by Kenneth Blanchard and Spencer Johnson

3
ONE MINUTE MANAGER is at the same time poignant and outdated. I feel like there is still merit in the overall message, people make the business, but it's written incredibly cheesy. The messages would have been much better if conveyed through more straight forward presentations and factual testimonials than a hokey story that isn't believable. While a book detailing the effectiveness of quick interactions should be short, this book is criminally short. Overall, it's worth a read but I wouldn't be happy if I paid for it.

Sean
Saving Fish From Drowning by Amy Tan

3
Amy Tan does a pretty amazing job of making me scratch my head. Every time I thought I had this novel pigeon-holed for a certain genre, the book swerved. The book's narrator is the biggest mystery and while everything gets explained, it's still not done until the very last pages. The prose is beautiful at times but then clunky at others. Tan tells an incredible story from an intriguing angle. Some of the dialogue gets very choppy and absurd and there are times that people act so unbelievably. However, she still makes it so human. The book smashes beliefs into each other and comes together the basic tenets of humanity. It's a good book but I can imagine why others would dislike it.

Mary
Warlight by Michael Ondaatje

5
I loved the mystery and intrigue in this novel.

Donna
Baby Teeth by Zoje Stage

5
I saw "The Bad Seed" back in the 50s and thought it was the most intense movie I'd ever seen and haven't forgotten it. BABY TEETH is a story that is creepy, scary and unsettling. It's a book that I'll not forget. I'll be sharing this book with my reading friends and discussing it with them.

Trezeline
The President is Missing by Bill Clinton and James Patterson

3
One can definitely see Clinton's influence. A good mystery but somehow I expected more. Some twists but not enough to make it a page-turner.

Lois
Songs for the Butcher's Daughter by Pater Manseau

4
Incredible tale. I certainly didn't expect such a story. Worthwhile reading.

Tessa B C
Cork Dork by Bianca Bosker

2
2.5 stars. Subtitle: A Wine-Fueled Adventure Among the Obsessive Sommeliers, Big Bottle Hunters, and Rogue Scientists Who Taught Me to Live for Taste. I picked up the book only because it’s a selection for my face-to-face book club. Bosker’s writing pulled me in. She’s funny and irreverent, and also entertaining and informative. Still, I found much of it repetitive. Just not my cup of tea (or glass of wine), I guess.

Linda
Trumpet of Death by Cynthia Riggs

5
A wonderful, typical Cynthia Riggs mystery novel, set on the island of Martha's Vineyard. It's great to read while vacationing on the island and passing by many of the locations described in the book, which has some very interesting plot twists!

Thomas
The 17th Suspect by James Patterson and Maxine Paetro

5
Excellent book to read.

Sue
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

4
This is a WWII book set in Germany. It is the story of a young girl, Liesel, who is placed in a foster home. She is taught to read by her "father" and develops a love for books although she has only one; one that she stole at her brother's funeral. Liesel's life, experiences, friends, and adventures are narrated by Death. This is one of my favorite books this year. The events, characters, and their relationships are believable and are told in an interesting and gripping style.

Mona
Bring Me Back by B. A. Paris

3
This is my third B.A. Paris book. I loved BEHIND CLOSED DOORS and THE BREAKDOWN so I was very much looking forward to this one. Layla vanishes while she and Finn are vacationing in France. There is an investigation and, ultimately, Finn is released. Twelve years have passed and Finn has moved on. He has a new life and a new love, Ellen. But, as the famous saying goes, “your past always comes back to haunt you.” Thank you, St. Martin’s Press, for my complimentary review copy.

Terry
Baby Teeth by Zoje Stage

4
Little Hanna loves her daddy. So much so that she wants him all to herself. If only mommy would disappear. Suzette adores her daughter but can’t break through the barrier Hanna has built. Hanna is the apple of her daddy’s eye. This book is utterly sinister. Hanna is a so called “bad seed” who can’t or won’t speak despite the multiple physicians her mother has consulted for a diagnosis. Her modality of communication is screaming, mostly at her mother. She manipulates her parents and despises her mother. If you enjoy books with wicked undertones, this is for you.

Debbie
The Western Star by Craig Johnson

3
What a disappointing ending - in order to learn the outcome, the next book must be read. I firmly dislike cliff hangers, like "Who shot JR". The book jumps back and forth from when Walt first takes up law enforcement to Walt preparing for his final years as sheriff. The interesting story rests in the description of the steam engine train and its last run, loaded with all the sheriffs. Walt assists in discovering a mass killer and the story jumps to current times with the convicted killer attempting to leave prison due to old age and sickness. Craig Johnson tells a descriptive and exciting story, and his characters jump off the pages and engage the reader to witness the events and interpret the outcome.

Debbie
An Obvious Fact by Craig Johnson

3
I read the Longmire books out of sequence, but this did not deter from the story. This escapade features "the Cheyenne Nation" proving his skill with a motorcycle, and maybe finding a young man who might be Henry's son. The story features a long-ago woman from Henry's romantic adventures. Walt and Henry attempt to determine why a young motorcycle rider has landed in the hospital, and what covert actions threaten this peaceful town. Of course, the big issue rests in land and the pains that men take to obtain land illegally. Again, Craig Johnson develops many interesting characters and paints a panorama of the life in Wyoming and the Dakotas.

Debbie
The Prisoner in the Castle by Susan Elia MacNeal

3
I found this book extremely fun. The story follows Agatha Christie's model of Ten Little Indians (AND THEN THERE WERE NONE), with ten English spies stranded on a Scottish island during WWII, and then one by one the deaths begin. The reader and the living cast attempt to discover the killer among themselves before all are dead. While reading the story, I tried remembering Christie's story. I do remember the various movie versions. Susan Elia MacNeal presents great characters with all their foibles and problems. Each character has been stranded on the island due to some mistake. A winter storm pelts the island making transportation off the island temporarily halted, but a German submarine and the British authorities head to the island.

Lori
The Word Is Murder by Anthony Horowitz

5
Another great novel by Anthony Horowitz with the author as a major character in the book. The whole book had great originality, and the mystery, as well as the premise of the author investigating a true crime, made it a great read. I highly recommend it to mystery lovers.

Lori
The Woman on the Orient Express by Lindsay Jayne Ashford

5
This is one of the few free books from Amazon Prime Reading that I've actually gotten around to reading. I'm glad I did. Although I've grown disenchanted with novels based on real people, I liked this one because Agatha Christie was just one of three characters. Her life was not the main focus of the book. I enjoyed reading about the exotic places where they traveled and learning about the interesting lives of the characters. I recommend this book.

Lori
Mr. Gandy's Grand Tour by Alan Titchmarsh

5
This is the third novel I've read by British author Alan Titchmarsh. I've been enjoying each book more than the previous one. They're very light, feel-good stories, and make a nice change of pace from more serious books. This one was not very realistic, but it was a nice escapist story in beautiful locales.

Mona
A Gathering of Secrets by Linda Castillo

5
I received an advanced readers’ edition from Minotaur Books in exchange for an honest review. This is the 10th installment in Linda Castillo’s Kate Burkholder series, but the first one I’ve read. I neither felt lost nor that I was missing anything by starting late in the series. The author does a good job of giving background on the characters and referencing past events. Somehow, I’ve always been fascinated by the Amish. Maybe it’s their simple lifestyle or their strong sense of community. Most likely, it’s their insulation and isolation from society. They seem to be in their own world, a world different from ours, and yet the same. Both have a dark side. Both have secrets.

Deby
Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman

4
Excellent! We had a great discussion about loneliness and the brain's ability to hide away details that we don't want to remember.