This contest period's winners were Julie M., Marvin M. and Valerie S., who each received a copy of A SPARK OF LIGHT by Jodi Picoult and TRANSCRIPTION by Kate Atkinson.
Fran
Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman
This intelligent read unfolds page by page as the reader discovers that what at first seem like cliched characters are unique spirits. And Eleanor Oliphant may just be the most interesting - and the most unpredictable - literary heroine in the past 50 years. The book has intellect and heart! And whatever you predict turns out to be wrong. The "key" to Eleanor's life will shock you and warm your heart at the same time.
Kerry
The Sun Does Shine by Anthony Ray Hinton with Lara Love Hardin
This harrowing memoir is a must-read. This man basically went to death row for being a black man in Alabama. He dealt with corrupt people along his inadequate trial. Throughout his almost 30 years on death row he kept his faith and helped other inmates along the way. The only people that stuck by him were his devoted loving mom and best friend Lester. This is an absolutely tragic and amazing story. This man is humble and faithful to God after all he’s been through. I’m in awe of him and his story.
Jill
Love and Ruin by Paula McLain
Really enjoyed this book. Ernest met Martha while being married to, Pauline, his second wife. Martha had a career of being a war correspondent and was away many months at a time. I was surprised that Ernest would marry a strong and independent woman as Martha, because he liked being taken care of. Ernest was a selfish man and was more concerned with his books when he knew Martha was struggling with her book. It was a difficult time for woman in this field and Martha paved the way for other women later. Highly recommend this book.
Richard N B
City of Bones by Michael Connelly
3.5 stars. Book eight in the popular Harry Bosch detective mystery series. I really like this series, partly because I really like Harry Bosch. He’s a great detective and does his best to circumvent the political minefield of a big-city police department. The action is fast-paced and Connelly gives the reader enough red herrings to keep anyone guessing.
Tessa B C
Espresso Tales by Alexander McCall Smith
Book Two in the 44 SCOTLAND STREET series about the residents of a particular apartment building in Edinburgh. The novel is a sort of ensemble piece, with chapters alternating among the characters. It’s not great literature but it is fun to read. Reminds me of Armistead Maupin’s TALES OF THE CITY series.
Patricia
The Forbidden Door by Dean Koontz
My first Jane Hawk of the series, and definitely thrilling. I read an advanced copy. There is endless tension as Jane, an FBI agent, strives to stay alive while being pursued by rogue government conspirators who are planning to take control of the country by means of a most heinous brain-altering weapon. The excitement mounts steadily. The characters are an interesting assortment. The plot is all too believable. The writing is flawless. I can't wait to read more.
Valerie
Daughter of a Daughter of a Queen by Sarah Bird
This is a historical fiction about Cathy Williams, a former slave and the first woman to enlist in the U.S. Army during peace time and serve as a Buffalo Soldier while disguised as a man. There is little information on Cathy beyond her military record, but the author does a great job at imagining Cathy's experience and the dangers she faced while living among men hardened by war. Though uneducated, Cathy is shrewd, discerning, and very likable. It's easy to appreciate her spunk and practical manor despite the hard life she was dealt. Though this mostly fictional, it does bring to attention to an amazing woman who might otherwise continue to remain an obscure part of history.
Beth
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows
I had to get accustomed to a book written entirely through letters, but eventually the story grew on me nonetheless.
Muriel
The Chilbury Ladies’ Choir by Jennifer Ryan
There are so many things I love about this book. Music and their choir is a strong force which bonds together the women of Chilbury, England as their men go off to war and the ladies take over some of the traditional male roles and occupations. The ladies grow stronger and more sure of themselves because of the need to do so. There’s some romance and mystery in the book to keep one intrigued, but the main attraction for me was seeing the strength of these ladies and how they supported one another.
Patricia
Warlight by Michael Ondaatje
A brother and sister are looked after by some very unusual individuals while their father works out of the country and their mother is mysteriously absent. It takes place in the years after WWII, when what was supposed to be over really isn't over. It's all very mysterious and vague until the truth is slowly revealed. It is a part of the post war era that one rarely thinks about, but won't forget after reading this mesmerizing novel. Ondaatje's writing is pure poetry and it's a pleasure just to read his words, but with the added advantage of a quite fascinating story.
Nancy
East of Eden by John Steinbeck
EAST OF EDEN is considered one of Steinbeck's best books. Mention the name, and most people will think of James Dean and the movie. In fact, for our discussion in a couple of weeks, we are going to watch the movie on Amazon Prime and then discuss the book and compare it with the movie. The book tells the tale of two brothers, one of whom falls for the other's girlfriend, and the results. But it goes far beyond that tale, going multi-generational with lots of symbolism. If you didn't read it in high school, read it now. It's long, but well worth the time.
Patricia
An Unwanted Guest by Shari Lapena
Well, what could be more fun than a remote hotel in the mountains, isolated by a winter storm and a power failure, while the bodies pile up? This is just what it takes to satisfy the need for an absorbing escape into murder and mayhem.
Patty
Pachinko by Min Jin Lee
An excellent read about a Korean family, spanning 4 generations. The characters were very well developed. I learned much out the struggles between Japan and Korea over the years. Could not put it down!
Patricia
The 7-1/2 Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle by Stuart Turton
I suspect that Stuart Turton had as much fun writing this mystery as I had reading it. There are so many twists and turns, delightfully dastardly characters, and a whopper of a time loop, that I took notes and made lists just to keep up with everything that was going on. I read an ARC, and am sure that there will be wait lists for this book at all the libraries.
Patricia
The Clockmaker's Daughter by Kate Morton
I read an ARC and am happy to be telling everyone about it. This multi-layered tale moves through time and generations and has many diverse and fascinating characters in addition to a number of sub-stories. All of them are relevant and important so I took notes, made lists of characters, dates, and even a family tree. This brilliant work is worth giving to it one's complete attention. It is an excellent choice for a book group.
Patricia
The Dream Daughter by Diane Chamberlain
What would it take for you to risk your life? To step out into nothingness, trusting in the existence of something that cannot possibly be real? In this case, a mother's determination to save her unborn child is the impetus behind that enormous courage. The mysterious aspect of this great adventure involves a very believable matter of time travel. The flawless and thought-provoking writing
captivates the reader in this not-able-to-put-it-down adventure. I was fortunate to be given an ARC so I had an early look.
Alyson
Candide by Voltaire
Classic book about philosophy and even though the tutor said that everything would be for the best, it was more hopeful than what really happens.
Nancy
Code Girls by Liza Mundy
This is such an interesting book. It is about the women who were chosen to break codes during WWII. They were sworn to never reveal the work they were doing, so not much has been known about them. The information has now been released so they can be recognized for their work.
Sherri
The Card Catalog by The Library of Congress (Forward by Carla Hayden)
For someone who has worked in libraries and always wanted to own a card catalog since they went out of use, I found this book very interesting. The only thing I didn't like was the extremely small print that my old eyes had a hard time reading. There was a lot of interesting historical information that I never knew about before and it made me want to delve deeper into some of the ideas/people that were a part of the development of the card catalog, it predecessors and its current replacements.
Peggy
The Widower's Notebook by Jonathan Santlofer
A sad book, no surprise there, but one that leaves the reader with hope that joy can one day be felt again. Being a recent widow myself, I felt part of his emotions, especially trying so hard not to be a burden and wishing every day that someone, anyone, would give you a big hug!
Jennie
Stay With Me by Ayobami Adebayo
This was my book club’s September read. We all loved it! So interesting to see the effects of the culture on the marriage of a young Nigerian couple. It is sad, joyful and mysterious. The hardest part was keeping track of who was who in their extended families. Highly recommend.
Simonne
Lincoln in the Bardo by George Saunders
Hard to figure out at first what the heck and who the heck the characters are. As it turns out, they are insignificant ghosts who do not realize they are actually dead, floating around in a kind of limbo and trying to tell the recently departed Willie Lincoln to “let it go” and move on to death. I just didn’t like this book or the way it was delivered.
Jenelle
Shelter in Place by Nora Roberts
This book is much different than I expected. I expected the book to be about a mass shooting. It starts out that way but really is a murder mystery. I enjoyed reading the book though. I like the writing style. I think Nora always spins a good story in her yearly hardcover books.
Allison
The Whole World Over by Julia Glass
Good story.
Kathy
Us Against You by Fredrik Backman
This sequel to BEARTOWN continues the moving story of a small town, its hockey team, politics, and the lure of power. You do not have to read BEARTOWN in order to enjoy this beautifully-written story of strength and perseverance.
Marvin
In the Galway Silence by Ken Bruen
As usual, when a new Ken Bruen novel arrives I have to first hold it a bit. Take in the cover, roll it over. Read the back cover blurbs, anticipation building. Butterflies stirring a little in the belly. Finish the one I'm plodding through first? Hell, no. Dive in. Preparing for the read. Turntable on. Stacked by it Johnny Duhan's Winter, Iris DeMent, Tom Russell/Gretchen Peters and of course Emmy Lou's Bang the Drum Slowly. Open to the first pages of, IN THE GALWAY SILENCE - A JACK TAYLOR NOVEL. It seems that Jack is currently a happy man. Well, as happy as dear old Jack can ever be.
Nancy
Sold on a Monday by Kristina McMorris
With vivid descriptions and great characterization, the story takes readers into the harsh realities of the Depression, a time when a widowed and ailing mother is pushed to a desperate choice, hoping to provide for her children. The story is a heartbreaker, with a touch of romance and a threat of prohibition era gangsters, and a whole lotta of reclamation for Ellis and Lily. I enjoyed this historical fiction read not only for its storytelling but also for its relevance to issues that we still face today: poverty, lack of affordable medical care, separation of families, human trafficking, mental illness, and journalistic standards.
Myrna
An American Marriage by Tayari Jones
What happens when a couple whose marriage is still in infancy is dealt a raw deal and the husband is incarcerated for a crime he didn't commit? Can the marriage survive the passage of time, or will time work against their purposes? These are the questions posed in this fine book.
Jayme
Travels with Charley in Search of America by John Steinbeck
If you are looking for an in-depth travelogue of America this is not it. TRAVELS WITH CHARLEY is an interesting account of Steinbeck's musings and thoughts as he travels through America reflecting on his past, current events (in 1960) and the future of America. What I found fascinating and disturbing is, except for a few minor changes, he could have been describing the political climate today in America. Will we ever learn in America?
Judie
The Rent Collector by Camron Wright
I can’t believe this marvelous book was published in 2012 and I only recently discovered it. This gem is based on the true story of a family living and working at Stung Meanchey, the largest garbage dump in Cambodia where they scavenge for recyclables to sell. In a post Khmer Rouge Cambodia where literacy was all but exterminated in the 1970s, the story examines what happens when Sang Ly is introduced to literacy by the most unlikely character. This
story is full of hope, even in a garbage dump. It is a story that stays with the reader long after the last page is read.
Julie
The Half-Drowned King by Linnea Hartsuyker
Set in Norway, this Viking saga is wonderful! An interesting cast of characters, love, hate, revenge and honor gives the reader many reasons to keep turning the pages. I look forward to continuing this series with THE SEA QUEEN.
Kathie
I'm Not Missing by Carrie Fountain
I really enjoyed this young adult book. I am surprised there has not been more talk about this hidden gem. This is a contemporary story that appealed to a non-contemporary reader. A satisfying, quick read for a blustery fall day. Glad I picked this one up - I would encourage you to check this one out.
Jane
Go On, Girl by Hilary Grossman
A fun book to read. I learned a lot about the PTA and "mean" moms. I laughed out loud all throughout the book with the PTA antics and also Sydney's mother-in-law and their quest to not to sell their perfect house but getting an offer they couldn't resist. Amanda, their 6-year-old daughter was so precocious and took everything in stride much more so than Sydney sometimes. Sydney did take her good old time in telling her "best" friend Jackie that they were moving not knowing how she was going to take it. Jackie was a such a hot/cold person that I wasn't sure if I liked her or not. It's interesting the way the characters all blended in and would love to know what happens in the future.
Laurie
Sea Prayer by Khaled Hosseini
Beautifully-illustrated story dedicated to helping fund life-saving relief efforts to help refugees around the world.
Frances
Bellewether by Susanna Kearsley
The best Susanna Kersley I’ve read so far. I knew next to nothing about the French and Indian War so the historical parts were very enlightening and have encouraged me to read further. The time switch from the present to the 18th century on Long Island and in NYC was seamless and easy to follow. The three narrators had distinctive voices and I even appreciated the “comforting” ghost. My only complaint is it took me a while to get into it, but that’s possibly because I’m traveling. Loved the ending. Didn’t expect it! Read it.
Donna
Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
Our book club is reading this book this month to see if it stands the test of time. My memories of reading it at the age of 12 are so different from what I feel about it today!
ILene
The Nest by Cynthia D'Aprix Sweeney
THE NEST starts out when the father dies and leaves his older son Leo in charge of his inheritance the father called “The Nest.” There are three other children in order Melody, Jack and Beatrice. Just so happens Leo has a drug problem and has to be put in rehab. “The Nest” calls for no money to be given out until Beatrice, being the youngest, reaches 40 years old. Beatrice is now 40 and the three plan a big party for her and plan to divide up the money they all really need. Now we are waiting for Leo. Will he show and does he still have the money? What a great book. If you think you have problems, you should see theirs.
Sandra
The Last Summer at Chelsea Beach by Pam Jenoff
Pam Jenoff is one of my favorite authors and she never disappoints!!
Sandra
Tell the Wolves I'm Home by Carol Rifka Brunt
1987. The only person who has ever truly understood fourteen-year-old June Elbus is her uncle, the renowned painter Finn Weiss. Shy at school and distant from her older sister, June can be herself only in Finn's company - he is her godfather, confidant, and best friend. So when he dies, far too young of a mysterious illness her mother can barely speak about, June's world is turned upside down. Very good book!
Rosa
How to Walk Away by Katherine Center
What a delightful, escapist read. Margaret has just graduated from business school, is ready to start her dream job, and is expecting a marriage proposal from Chip, the love of her life. But life sometimes turns on a dime, and plans change. This was funny, sad, heartbreaking, and poignant. It took me through a roller coaster of emotions, and I was happy to go along for the ride. Beautiful.
Betty
Moriarty by Anthony Horowitz
Excellent mystery written in the Arthur Conan Doyle style. This was commissioned by the Conan Doyle estate, so Horowitz has great cred. The story does not disappoint -- has a startling plot twist near the end.
Debra
All Things Bright and Strange by James Markert
This book is about a simmering, supernatural battle of good versus evil. Tolerance and a sense of community fueled the good, while intolerance and a growing suspicion of others fueled the evil. The evil that lived in the woods disguised itself with deceitful beauty. I loved how healing began once the people of Bellhaven resumed cooking and eating together, enjoying music once again and working together. This book was filled with themes of hope and redemption, and I very much enjoyed reading it.
Maureen
Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan
This book just did not do it for me. Very long, annoying characters and tedious plot. I skimmed the last 150 pages. I hope the movie is better.
Theresa
The Late Bloomers’ Club by Louise Miller
I seriously did not want this book to end. I fell in love with the town of Guthrie, VT and its quirky and lovable inhabitants. And best of all, I’ll be baking a Burnt Sugar Cake with Maple Icing real soon!
Patty
A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles
Amazing writing, so precise and descriptive that I did not want the Count to stop narrating the tale of his life in exile in the Metropol.
Theresa
The Quiet Side of Passion by Alexander McCall Smith
This latest in Alexander McCall Smith’s Isabel Dalhousie series is a good read. I believe this author is better known for his No 1 Ladies Detective Agency Series, but this series is not to be overlooked by his fans. McCall Smith is such a creative writer - Isabel and her little world in Edinburgh, Scotland is just as believable and full of life as Precious Ramotswe and Botswana.
Gil
Fear by Bob Woodward
Bob Woodward (and Carl Bernstein) brought down Richard Nixon by very thorough investigative reporting. In FEAR, Woodward describes the Trump Whitehouse in chaos brought about by an unfit president. Woodward has a solid reputation for being a very credible investigative reporter and author. His reporting on Watergate was instrumental in causing Nixon to resign. Consequently, this reader is in 'fear' of what the Trump administration is doing and may do in the future. I urge every American to read this book and draw your own conclusions. A must-read.
Dawn
The Dream Daughter by Diane Chamberlain
This was a fabulous book that lends for lots of thought-provoking discussion. I loved putting myself in the main characters shoes at each stage of the story and thought about what I would do in the situation. We read this for our book club and had great discussion!!
Martha
The Guilty Dead by P. J. Tracy
The mother half of the P. J. Tracy writing team has passed away, but the daughter half has successfully produced another great thriller about the Monkeewrench team and Detectives Leo Magozzi and Gino Rolseth of the Minneapolis PD. Suicides that are not suicides, solved murders not solved, and terrorist bombs congregate in one story where the past is as important as the present. Can't wait for another tale about the Monkeewrench software team.
Kay
My Antonia by Willa Cather
LITTLE HOUSE ON THE PRAIRIE for adults! A charming read full of beautiful, descriptive writing!
Sandra
All the Missing Girls by Megan Miranda
Loved it!!
Martha
Beneath the Same Heaven by Anne Marie Ruff
Most remarkable book this year. Ruff, in an intercultural marriage herself, writes about a young couple, an American woman and a Pakistani man. Both sets of parents of the couple accept this marriage of two worlds. The couple make their home in California. All is fine until an American drone strike near the border of Pakistan kills the the young man's father who is attending a wedding. His family wants revenge and choose him, as a resident American, to make this happen. The story is told in two parts, her story and his story. The cultural gap becomes a major divide. This is a story which tells both sides. It is a story about terrorism and consequences. Outstanding dialogue and writing. Small publisher.
Janice
The Bone Tree by Greg Iles
Another nail-biting addition to this series, this one with historical content dating back to the JFK assassination. Some of the direction the story took this time made me rather sad; I couldn't believe a long-featured character was gone.
Maureen
A Piece of the World by Christina Baker Kline
Very enjoyable story about the subject of Andrew Wyeth's "Christina's World" painting.
Dianne
The Lost Family by Jenna Blum
Wow, what a great book that will keep you reading. This book has so many twists from Peter’s first family’s misfortunes of WWII to falling in love with a beautiful model in NYC. Peter is a sad and confused man that is afraid of loving again but finds that a second marriage is in store for him if he will only allow it, but he is driven by his work and gives his family little. This book is one to read.
Pauline
Paris by the Book by Liam Callanan
I’m a sucker for books set in bookshops, so I was already ready to love this one. But it turned out to be the voice of the narrator that I really found myself listening to, although she wasn’t very much like me. I rooted for her, gasped at the twists and even accepted the resolution. All around satisfying read.
Laura
Soldier Boy by Keely Hutton
She opened my eyes to a world I never knew. She told the story of Ricky magnificently!
Francisca E B
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
Is this the quintessential American novel? Will it stand the test of time as Mark Twain’s THE ADVENTURES OF HUCKLEBERRY FINN has done? Time will tell. I do know this, however. This is a singularly powerful novel that has touched generations of readers in the 50-something years since it was first released and remains high on many “must be read” lists. It’s a well-paced novel, a fast read with elements of suspense, family drama, humor, and moral lessons. If I could give it 10 stars I would.
Lois
A Dog's Way Home by W. Bruce Cameron
A sweet story of a dog being lost and then returning home. A quick read and enjoyable.
Laurie
This Is Me by Chrissy Metz
This is an engaging and honest memoir about the "This Is Us" star many have come to love. The book is about her tough early years and her struggle to get acting jobs as a plus-size actress. She honestly reveals her childhood emotional abuse and her journey to stardom.
Jill
The Time Keeper by Mitch Albom
THE TIME KEEPER is not usually my kind of book. Odd situations involving time have elements of magical realism, sci-fi, and allegory in them. There is one story arc and the sub-stories come together into the main storyline after a time. By this point, it's clear where the author is going and he conveys a good message about how we use or don't our time to our advantage. Even if you're not a fan of Albom or Paolo Cuello, try it anyway and you might be surprised!
Jill
Goodbye Vitamin by Rachel Khong
This book manages to capture humanity's frailties and wonders simultaneously. Ostensibly, the story features Ruth, a twenty-something slacker whose boyfriend left her. She quits her radiology screen tech job and returns to her parents' home to lick her wounds, only to find that her father's dementia has worsened. He can no longer teach at the nearby college and that her mother has given up cooking dinner period. She meets Theodore, his father's protegee and biggest fan, who insists that they have the dad teach Chinese history on the dog so the department chair doesn't find out. Eventually, Linus, Ruth's oldest brother comes home and the family comes together. What I like best about the book's ending is that it's open-ended, just as life is.
Bonnie
The Little Paris Bookshop by Nina George
It took me a while to get into the flow of this novel, but by the second half it had a certain charm.
Helen
The Spymistress by Jennifer Chiaverini
I love historical fiction. I never knew the story of Elizabeth Van Lew. I am in awe of of her bravery and courage. She was a remarkable woman who deserved more recognition. I am going to recommend my two book groups read this book.
Cherie
The Last Time I Lied by Riley Sager
This book is a must-read! From page one, it kept me intrigued and glued to every word. This psychological thriller will keep you guessing until the every end.
Shirley
Harry's Trees by Jon Cohen
Lovely, light and magical story that also deals with several of life's tragedies.
Thomas
Triple Homicide by James Patterson
It was an excellent book to read.
Shelley
My Squirrel Days by Ellie Kemper
MY SQUIRREL DAYS by Ellie Kemper is a humorous memoir by the actress who starred in "The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt" and "The Office". Her upbeat look at life and self-deprecating jokes make her relatable and true to the reader. She talks about her family growing up, her relationship with her now husband, being a mom, and becoming a comedian and actress. Hilarious tidbits about celebrities she has come into contact with are a real treat. I've already recommended this book to everyone I know. Highly recommend!
Lisa
The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah
Although it took me a while to get into, the writing and character development are really top-notch. The domestic violence got to be a bit much for me, but I was the only one in my book club that didn't absolutely love the book.
Mindy
The Glass Ocean by Beatriz Williams, Lauren Willig, and Karen White
Excellent book with a seamless story of three women across one hundred years. Throw in a famous ship, romance and betrayal with a mystery and you have an enjoyable read. I started it and finished it in one sitting, staying up until the wee hours of the morning to see how it all came together. The first book by this trio of authors is now at the top of my reading list!
Lori
Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng
I didn't love it but it was an interesting read for the most part with the different dilemmas that were presented. Book title was perfect!
Anita
Sold on a Monday by Kristina McMorris
This was a wonderful, well-written story. It takes place in 1931 in Pennsylvania where a newspaper reporter passes a house with two children in front and a sign that states for sale. He can't believe that people are willing to sell their children and decides to take a picture. When the picture goes missing, he decides to go back and retake it. When he gets to the house he finds out the children and their family have moved. Instead, he finds two other children next door, and finding the sign on the ground, asks them to hold the sign, and he retakes the picture which later is published. Things go a bit awry after that, but this was an excellent book, and great page-turner. I look forward to reading more books by Ms. McMorris.
sandy
One More Moment by Samantha Chase
This is another great addition, probably the last (sigh), in the Shaunessey series. This one is about Julian, their drummer, who was taken advantage of by his fiancee and who has decided that because of this, he can no longer trust anyone he'd previously worked with - except his band - and therefore must give up his true love, the band. Enter Charlotte, a social worker and a truly nice and considerate person, who runs into him at a coffee shop on the day he returns from a three month self-exile looking like a homeless person. She buys him a coffee as she overheard him saying he'd forgotten his wallet, he blows up at her, she just looks at him and says she's sorry but if he really can afford it, then pay it forward.The writing is great.
Jan
Educated by Tara Westover
Tara Westover never went to school until she entered college; did not know what a syllabus was, had never taken a formal exam (much less one on which she was expected to "bubble in" the answers). This is a courageous story of a woman who grew up in Montana in an isolated family with very strict Morman values. Slowly but surely, she realizes that her family is plain nuts - her father's survivalist strategy, her mother's healing strategy (she was going to perform a healing ritual on someone else and "wing" it to England to Tara), her brother's violent and evil temper and physical abuse of his sisters, etc. We learn of her difficult decisions to give up on her family. A beautiful read.
Jan
The Fire This Time by Jesmyn Ward (Editor)
This collection of young non-white authors provides stunning detail about what it is like to be in the United States and have skin color (provided by God) that is not white. There are historical researchers, poets, storytellers. It is a book that anyone can learn from but the white-supremists, KKK, etc. will not read it. Therefore, it is up to the rest of us to read it and better understand that the world we live in is not the world for a majority of our fellow citizens. The writing is exquisite, the examples jarring, and throughout the book, no one gives up. No one calls for us to quit trying to understand and accept each other - as the human beings we are.
Tessa B C
Mad Love by Suzanne Selfors
2.5 stars. Okay, I knew it was a YA romance going into it, and I definitely see the appeal for the target audience. You have all the elements for a successful romance, including “meeting cute,” attractive characters, a nemesis that shows some redeeming qualities in the end. Add a dash of Greek mythology and a sprinkle of magical realism, and you have a pretty good idea for a teen romance. It’s just not my cup of tea.
Elizabeth
The Women in the Castle by Jessica Shattuck
Even if you think you’re sick of World War II novels, try this one because THE WOMEN IN THE CASTLE is more than that. Jessica Shattuck has assembled what SEEMS to be a story of three German women, survivors who were married to heroic men of the Resistance. But little by little we learn these women’s secrets. Together, Marianne, Ania, and Betina, the women in the castle, survive the aftermath of World War II. Their stories continue through 1991, all the while revealing Betina’s and Ania’s secrets and those of the people they were and are involved with. THE WOMEN IN THE CASTLE examines guilt and moral culpability. It is not as simple and cut and dry as Marianne believes.
Linda
The Highlander's Promise by Lynsay Sands
Aulay Buchanan, laird of the clan, found a young woman tied to a ship’s mast floating in the sea. She has lost her memory and remembers nothing but mumbles about someone trying to kill her. Aulay and his brothers search for the assassin before further harm comes to the woman. To complicate matters, she thinks she is married to Aulay and doesn't understand why he doesn't want her in his bed. He has a horrible scar on one side of his face and she thinks she has said something that hurt him but she sees the goodness inside him and loves him for the man he is. A great love story.
Linda
Wedding Night with the Earl by Amelia Grey
When Adam Greyhawke lost his wife and baby, he retreated to a desolate cottage in the north of England and was perfectly content with his lonely existence until he receives a visit from the Prince’s emissary and learns he has inherited a title and an heir, a five-year-old named Dixon Greyhawke. They travel to London and he attends a party where he meets the Duke of Quillsbury’s niece Katherine. Although attracted to her beauty and wit, he has no plans to remarry as he has no desire to go through the agony of losing a wife in childbirth again. Katherine stated she wants many children to name after her siblings who were killed in a carriage accident. They are at an impasse. She has to make him see that sometimes love is worth the risk.
Linda
Into the Water by Paula Hawkins
Part of the river flowing through the small town of Beckford forms a pool that local citizens call the Drowning Pool for the many young women who have drowned there, whether by suicide or murder. Nel Abbot is researching its victims as part of material for a book she is writing, and there are some of Beckford’s citizens who want her to stop. Memories are hurtful and should stay buried. It isn’t long before someone killed Nel by pushing her into the Drowning Pool. But who is the guilty party? Lots of suspense as you try to guess who the guilty party is. It is someone you will least suspect.
Linda
Off the Grid by Monica McCarty
Investigative reporter Brittany Blake is trying to find out what happened to her brother. He was a Navy SEAL and part of a team that was taken out by missiles in Russia although Russia denies it. Brittany finds John Donovan, her brother’s best friend and also a SEAL, and demands answers. John is in hiding along with the other survivors. He has to stop her from writing further stories about the lost platoon but Brittany is stubborn and won’t listen to John, even when her life is threatened. John's former teammate Colt Wesson and his ex-wife Kate are also looking for the person who betrayed the SEALs. Kate is with the CIA and is using all of her contacts. There is some question whether it was an inside job or not. Who tipped off the Russians?
Linda
Going Dark by Monica McCarty
After their SEAL Team is betrayed and half are killed in Russia, the remaining SEALs go dark and scatter across the globe while their commander Scott Taylor tries to find who betrayed them. Senior Chief Dean Baylor is hiding out in Scotland under an alias and works for a dive company. Ecologists arrive in the area and set up protests against a company operating a drill site. Dean is hired to take out a group to the site for a sit-in but he gets a feeling that something is wrong, especially when Annie Henderson shows him the C4 the men brought on board. He has to stop them but now he has to keep Annie safe.
Linda
Rancher's Dream by B. J. Daniels
Hawk Cahill and Drey Hunter still love each other but both are stubborn and won’t relent of their anger. Hawk is devastated when Drey marries wealthy Ethan Baxter and moves into his luxury home built on the side of a mountain. Things are not as they seem. Drey realizes she has been drugged and her husband is gone. Then a stranger arrives and says he is Ethan’s brother Jet, a brother she has never heard Ethan mention. Hawk learns the FBI is investigating Ethan and worries that Drey’s life is in danger. The book could have been better if Drey’s character did not act so dumb.
Linda
Unbridled by Diana Palmer
John Ruiz is a Texas Ranger and a widower with a son who does not want another woman in the house to replace his mother. When John is attracted to Sunny Wesley, he knows she is special but does not know how to introduce her to his son. As a Ranger, John is called away from home a lot and is distant from his son. His son Tonio makes friends with Sunny, who is a nurse at the hospital, not knowing that she is the woman his father likes. Tonio tries to think of a way to get them together as he thinks Sunny is a lot like his mom and knows that his dad will like her. Sunny likes John and Tonio and has no idea they are father and son. A cute story.
Linda
A Most Unlikely Duke by Sophie Barnes
Moving from the slums of St. Giles to a mansion in Mayfair, Raphe Matthews has a lot to learn since becoming the Duke of Huntley. His neighbor Lady Gabriella Radcliffe has offered to teach his sisters about society’s rules. Although she is engaged to an aristocrat, she realizes she doesn't like his boasting ways but prefers being with Raphe. He feels he is unworthy of her and it’s up to her to change his mind. A great story not only of the growing love between Raphe and Gabriella but also the changing attitude of her father, the Earl of Warwick. He changes from being a snobby aristocrat to standing up for Raphe as he realizes it is not always the outward appearance of a man that makes him a man but rather what is inside the man.
Margaret
An Anonymous Girl by Greer Hendricks and Sarah Pekkanan
This is a psychological suspense told from alternate viewpoints. One is 28-yr-old Jessica who is single and participates in what she believes is a research study on morals & ethics. The other is a therapist, Dr. Shields, who is conducting the study under false pretenses because she believes her husband is cheating. She manipulates Jessica for personal gain while paying her a lot of money. Jessica is desperate for money because of family obligations & unwittingly goes along with everything Dr. Shields wants. Soon Jessica is in so deep, there seems to be no way out. This is much too detailed & long. It started slowly, eventually the storyline picked up, but was never as suspenseful as I would have liked. Main characters were nicely developed.
Margaret
Left: A Love Story by Mary Hogan
This is a passionate novel about a happily married couple of 22 years who are coping with the husband's dementia. He is a prominent judge, over 20 years older than his wife, and has always been there for her. She's an artist and is overcome with his condition so she creates a fantasy world to escape which adds a lot to the storyline. Their dog, Lola, is prominent throughout the novel. Since I have done volunteer work with patients suffering from dementia, I have knowledge of how this ravaging disease affects not only the patients, but their caregivers also. I found this author did a great job of describing the path of decline for the judge and his wife's reactions to various situations. It's a very difficult situation for both.
Nancy
I See Life Through Rose Colored Glasses by Lisa Scottoline
Love this series by Ms. Scottoline and her daughter, Francesca Serritella. The essays are brief and cover a wide range of topics from menopause-related adventures to dating!
Chelsie
A Fall of Marigolds by Susan Meissner
I loved the book, two women one hundred years apart are connected through a scarf and trying times. They both come to realize not to hold so much against themselves and how to be happy again. The storyline just flowed.
Barbara
If You Leave Me by Crystal Hana Kim
IF YOU LEAVE ME is a beautifully-written, tragic love story set in Korea during and after the war. The characters are fully developed with endearing qualities and human flaws. The prose is lyrical, the descriptions of Korea are very vivid. Pay special attention to the drinking/eating scenes. You'll learn a lot about Korean cuisine. Everyone should read this book about a time and place we don't hear about often. The characters and story will stay with me for a long time. Hard to believe it's the author's first book.
Rita
The Roots of the Olive Tree by Courtney Miller Santo
This is a good book that could have been a really good one. The first half of the book was not very attention-getting while the last half, after the research report on the main characters’ longevity became much more interesting. The questions developed in the plot tend to be incompletely answered. Oddly, there’s a chapter called: November 2004: Erin's Chapter tucked away in the end information at the back of the book. Perhaps my copy is flawed and the chapter appears as the last chapter.
Myrna
The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this description of the beauty yet harsh danger of Alaska, and the toll it may take on vulnerable individuals.
Trezeline
Magic Hour by Kristin Hannah
A great mystery. Kristin Hannah can really tell a good story. Although many of the incidents in the story were unrealistic, Hannah made it believable. I really enjoyed this book and intend to continue reading all of her books.
Edee
When the Lights Go Out by Mary Kubica
I consider myself a fan of Mary Kubica's writing, giving 5 star reviews to both PRETTY BABY and DON'T YOU CRY, so I eagerly dove into her latest book, WHEN THE LIGHTS GO OUT. I found myself in a real dilemma because on one hand, I was compulsively reading each page and holding my breath to find out what was going to happen, but then when I did get to the end and found out what happened, I felt completely deflated. I'm all about unexpected twists and turns in a plot line, but this one just fell flat for me. I simply couldn't get past the ending, so I rated this book three stars.
Deby
Anthem by Ayn Rand
My daughter is reading this for school so I read it to help her better discuss it. It's definitely one of those books that you read but then have to think about a lot.
Anna
Calling Me Home by Julie Kibler
I really enjoyed this book. This is a story of friendship, forbidden love and survival. Although it's a tragic and heartbreaking one, it also inspires hope. When a book makes me cry (as this one did at the end) I know I am truly invested in the characters and the story. The characters are so vivid and interesting. The writing was wonderful and I loved the way the author unfolded the story one chapter at a time, going back and forth between the two main characters.
Jan
Flower Girl by David Marshall Hunt
I received this book in a giveaway in return for an honest review. Save your time. This book never saw an editor - spelling, unintelligible context, grammar, etc. The first sentence (I am not kidding you) begins talking about a "doctor (medical) at the age of four." And the rest of the book makes as much sense as the first sentence. I was so disappointed because I know Korea and was expecting more. The author does not know much about Korea or its language - he writes about "Chedu-do Island" when "do" in Korean clearly means Island. So he writes about "Chedu Island Island." It does not get any better - multiple people, enough to confuse you, who is the parent, the friend, whoever? This is just a mish-mash of words. Edit, please.
Marilyn
The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot
This was a re-read for me, but several members had never read it and were enthralled with the content. The innocence of Henrietta’s family, the excitement of the staff to have these cells growing was an amazing contrast.
Liz
A Noise Downstairs by Linwood Barclay
Paul Davis is just a regular guy, until the night he sees one of his colleagues driving erratically. He decides to follow him, in case he needs help. Big mistake. What happens next will have dire consequences for his life as well as his marriage. Paul's wife, Charlotte, is unhappy in their marriage and sets forth a plan that will alter several people's lives. I won a copy of this book from Bookreporter.com and this is an honest review. I read this book in just a little over a day. It is very well written and keeps you in the edge of your seat, as well as guessing, until the very end.
Francisca E B
Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O'Dell
This is fast becoming a classic of children’s literature. O’Dell has crafted an enduring story of strength, courage and resilience. Karana, a young Native American woman left behind on an island off the California coast when her tribe departs, is practical and brave, resourceful and creative. She works hard at survival, but she works “smart” as well. The book won the John Newbery Medal for excellence in children’s literature.
Judy
Lethal White by Robert Galbraith
Cormoran Strike and his faithful assistant Robin are confronted by Billy who vows that he saw a little girl buried in a pink blanket. This is on the property of an MP who ends up dead. Once again, there are many clues to follow and Cormoran and Robin play their detective roles to a stunning conclusion.
Betty
Gaudy Night by Dorothy L. Sayers
#12 in the Lord Peter Wimsey series -- despite being dated, still a winner as far as multi-faceted characters are concerned.
LouAnn
The Secret Life of Violet Grant by Beatriz Williams
I love the books in this series. This is the second one I have read. It goes back and forth between the 60s and 1914. In the 60s Vivian Schuler receives in the mail a suitcase from her Great Aunt Violet who disappeared in Germany in 1914. She becomes intrigued and decides to discover what happened to Violet. What follows is a story full of history, intrigue and romance.
Debbie
Hillbilly Elegy by J. D. Vance
I am not a big fan of memoirs or biographies, but HILLBILLY ELEGY by J. D. Vance brought a little enjoyment. J.D. Vance outlines his story of living in Kentucky and Ohio, and his escape to Yale University to study law. What a fabulous ending to a story crammed full of bad experiences from a life a strife and dread, but a story of redemption in the form of a powerful grandmother that pushed him to succeed. J. D. Vance struggled with his drug dependent mother and the various men in the mother’s life. A gentle push after high school steered him to the Marines, and the rest of the story rests in that shove. I listened to the book on audio, and J. D. Vance does a great job in reading his book.
Debbie
The Flight Attendant by Chris Bohjalian
THE FLIGHT ATTENDANT by Chris Bohjalian slowly draws the reader into the story. The story begins with the flight attendant swept up in drunken, exotic sex with one of her passengers. The novel quickly turns a vivid corner, as Cassie awakens to find Alex, the passenger, dead in their bed. After a few chapters, the reader learns who slit Alec’s throat, but not the reason. Bohjalian displays Cassie as a continual party girl, who must always drink to excess. This time the drinking has dire consequences for Cassie and her family. As in other novels by Chris Bohjalian, Russians dominate the pages. The story plays upon money, spies, and drinking. The book piqued my interest and showed me a different lifestyle.
Debbie
Exposed Fury by Marie Flanigan
EXPOSED FURY by Marie Flanigan surprised me in the powerful presence of Annie Fitch. After finishing the novel, I hope that this will emerge as a series. Annie Fitch, an injured, ex-cop, now works as a investigator. I liked the way that Marie Flanigan inserted various topics such as cruelty to animals, Internet sex sites, the horrible working hours and stress of a police detective, the good old boy mentality, and the plight of autism, without preaching to the choir. Marie Flanigan lacks the philosophical and psychological detail of Elizabeth George and the grandiose storytelling skill of Louise Penny, but EXPOSED FURY begins Flanigan’s journey into good writing.
Rochelle
Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate
I really enjoyed this book. It is based on a true story in Memphis, TN. I am fairly new to the Memphis area. There is a lot of history here and I enjoyed reading this because it is about the local area. So sad that that this happened -- unimaginable but the story is very well written.
ILene
All This I Will Give to You by Dolores Redondo
ALL THIS I WILL GIVE TO YOU starts with a knock at the door. There were two police officers with the bad news that Manuel’s husband is found dead in a car accident. The case is closed but was it an accident or was he murdered. Manuel’s husband Alvaro was leading a double life. Manuel goes back to Alvaro’s family where he finds a very dysfunctional family of nobility and privilege. Well-drawn characters and many surprising twists and turns. What a great mystery! Thank you, Amazon Crossing.
Sandra
Cold Blooded Killers by R. J. Parker
This book has stories of several serial killers.
Sandra
The Pink Elephant in the Middle of the Getto by TiTi Ladette
This is a cautionary tale. Treat your children with love. Help them to grow up, not in an abusive environment. If not, this could happen to your child.
Sandra
The Clown Picture by Troy McCombs
Loved this! Horror books were the first books I ever read. Now, going back to them. Little boy finds a painting that comes to life. Things happen. Great read!
Sandra
The Dream Daughter by Diane Chamberlain
Would you go forward in time to save your child? This lady does. Great read.
Beth
A Higher Loyalty by James Comey
I knew a lot of this story from the news but it was interesting to hear the specifics. And terrifying for our country.
Cristine
The Dream Daughter by Diane Chamberlain
It’s 1970 and Carly has just lost her husband to the Vietnam War and found out a month later she is expecting. Sadly, she finds out her last connection to her husband Joe has a damaged heart that won’t live to have a chance for it to be fixed since it’s 1970. Her brother-in-law offers her a one-in-a-million chance to save her baby. What would you do to save your child? To what extremes would you go? I loved this book! It was so different from what is the norm. Every time you think you know what is going to happen the author throws another twist in it.
Susan
Defending Jacob by William Landay
You think it’s just solving a murder, but it's also about what happens to the family, community.
Jennifer
The Good Samaritan by R.C. Boldt
This is my favorite book this year!
Sandra
Bellewether by Susanna Kearsley
As always, Susanna Kearsley books are wonderful and I never miss reading one. Loved it!
Patty
One Heart at a Time by Delilah
Delilah is a radio personality who tells her story about adopting kids, her faith, her loss of her son to suicide. I enjoyed hearing her personal story. I don't know how she has the time to do all that she does.
Muriel
The Patchwork Bride by Sandra Dallas
Sandra Dallas is one of my favorite authors. She has a way of taking a simple story idea, adding in a few surprises, and making a delightful read. In this particular book, a grandmother is relating to her granddaughter the experiences of a friend who, like the granddaughter, was reluctant to marry her intended for various reasons. Sandra Dallas’s female characters, like Nell in the book, are generally strong women who use their inner strength to overcome adversities and solve their problems.
Sheila
Missing Joseph by Elizabeth George
Though we find out early who commits the murder, the why is harder to discern. Lynley, working with his friends Simon and Deborah, work through the intricacies, personalities and hidden pasts to find the truth. Elizabeth George's characters are always full of depth, and the plot twists and turns to keep the reader in suspense.
Pat
Educated by Tara Westover
Memoir of a young woman brought up by a extremely paranoid father whose fears of the interference of the government create an extremely limited and often dangerous upbringing. Denied an education, she longs for an opportunity to escape and with the help of her brother prepares herself to be accepted at college. A remarkable story...
Jeanie
The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood
Very compelling and suspenseful. I read it because it was on the Great American Read list and I had seen it compared with VOX in reviews. Our book club book choice this month is VOX. THE HANDMAID'S TALE was very well written and it’s hard to believe it was written so long ago. Highly recommend it!
Cindy
Educated by Tara Westover
A thought-provoking look at a life lived with determination and courage, EDUCATED is the best book I’ve read all year.
Marion
The Accidental President by A. J. Baime
A very good picture of the Truman family and the shock of Roosevelt’s death on them and the nation. A good picture of American lives affected by this. Truman had no college education nor was he kept up to date by Roosevelt about the War and other issues.
Shelly
The Dream Daughter by Diane Chamberlain
What a beautiful story and beautifully written. This was my first novel by Diane Chamberlain and I just absolutely loved every little bit of it. I really didn't want it to end. I could have read the story of Carly and Joanna till at least 2022. If you want a moving, touching story of love, loss, heartache, and hope you must read this.
Richard N B
Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins
2.5 stars. Book Two in the Hunger Games trilogy. Fast-paced formula continues with the characters facing numerous challenges and struggling with whom to trust and which alliances to forge in order to survive and win. I thought Collins was stretching things out to fill the pages.
Sheree
The Dinner List by Rebecca Serle
Loved it. It kept me thinking who I would have on my dinner list. I loved how she brought each guest in and how they were important to her. I was glad she came to some understanding with her father and boyfriend since she was unable to do it when they were alive. I keep thinking of the book so it has made a lasting impression on me. I would highly recommend it!
Sharon
Lost Lake by Sarah Addison Allen
Weaving magic into everyday life, Allen takes the reader on a journey of self-discovery as the characters discover new things about themselves, even as their presuppositions are confirmed.
Sharon
First Frost by Sarah Addison Allen
Second read for this book and it was as entrancing as the first. The Waverly sisters and their progeny are confronted with challenges to their identity and well-being. Choices make the difference in this magical, mystical story.
Donna
Depth of Winter by Craig Johnson
After watching the Longmire series on Netflix, I decided to read his latest book. I could picture the characters after watching the TV shows, but felt like I came in in the middle of the book. Obviously the previous book had set the stage for this one. I did like it though, and intend to read some of Johnson's previous books.
Vivian
The Dream Daughter by Diane Chamberlain
Ms. Chamberlain combines the fantastical (time travel) with the poignant (a mother's love) in an unforgettable story of just how far a mother is willing to go for the sake of protecting her child. Dramatically different from previous stories by this author, but a gripping story nonetheless.
MH
158-Pound Marriage by John Irving
This book was a complete departure from Irving’s usual books - and a complete disappointment. His other books have intense character development. This book had little. None of the characters were interesting as people or very believable.
Elizabeth
Lies by T. M. Logan
I enjoyed this book. The you never really knew what was happening until the end and then, of course, it was not what I was expecting. Fun read.
Alexandra
Beartown by Fredrik Backman
One of the best books in recent memory. The writing is beautiful, the story compelling, and the characters very believable. I enjoy all of Backman's books, but BEARTOWN is his best, in my opinion.
Chelsie
Someone Knows My Name by Lawrence Hill
This book was about a young girl taken at age 11 from Africa and sold into slavery in the U.S. Lawrence really did justice telling her story. It flowed fluidly and you felt as if you were living through this with her. I thoroughly enjoyed that he wove a lot of true historical aspects into this story, and I learned a lot about history because of it.
Helen
Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng
Not like anything I've read before. Terrific plot and interesting characters. Don't start it if you don't have the time to keep reading.
Eileen
Billy Boyle: A World War II Mystery by James R. Benn
First in the series featuring young Boston cop Billy Boyle, sent to London by his Uncle Ike to help with matters more criminal than military. The story doesn't let the reader forget the horror and tragedy of war. Our hero is not always heroic as he navigates between solving a crime and wartime necessities. I enjoyed the character and the setting. The writing is terrific. I would have given it 5 stars but for a few too many sidesteps into history. I'm looking forward to the rest of the series, the most recent of which was published in 2018.
Katherine
Educated by Tara Westover
A fascinating read about a girl that was denied an education and medical care by a strict father. Self-educated, she excelled when she finally broke away to experience college and the outside world.
Diane
The Winter Soldier by Daniel Mason
A very different view of WWI.
Joanne
Wild Fire by Ann Cleeves
A fitting finale to a wonderful series that takes readers to Shetland and the world of Jimmy Perez.
Rosemary
The Masterpiece by Fiona Davis
Probably the best of her three novels of N.Y. City landmarks, Fiona Davis uses Grand Central Terminal (not station) as her backdrop for a stories of a 1930s art teacher/illustrator and a newly divorced mother who snags a job working at the information booth at Grand Central. It runs from Grand Central heyday, including an art school on the premises to the 1970s fight to turn it into a landmark, thus avoiding the partial destruction and rebuilding a skyscraper on the site. Of course there's a mystery and intriguing characters. I would call this a must-read for any one who loves New York and enjoys a really good read!.
Cindy
Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
A coming-of-age story that captured my heart. The characters were memorable. The setting was so beautiful. I cannot believe this is a debut novel. I was right there with Kya, The Marsh Girl, living in her shack, feeding the gulls, hunting for feathers, and feeling her loneliness. A mystery, a love story, and lessons in nature make this novel one of my favs this year. I highly recommend.
Sheila
Less by Andrew Sean Greer
The sad, funny, and sweet story about a self-described "gay Job" coming to terms with his 50th birthday and a broken heart. I was charmed by this book.
Barbara
Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate
A current book group choice. Enjoyed the history -- learning about the sad adoption scandal in the 1930s in the southern U.S., but predictable love story.
patty
Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate
One of my favorite reads for 2018. A story of children who are kidnapped and sold back in the south, base on a true story. Memphis Tennessee Children's Home Society. A tale of sisters.
patricia
A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles
A story of a man who is arrested and confined to live in a hotel in Russia. He has a relationship with a young girl and and eventually her daughter. A gentleman he is. The storyline is not what I expected and the ending gratifying. Good read.
patty
Educated by Tara Westover
A bio of a women growing up Mormon. Her struggles and and hardships in life. She educates herself and ends up with a PhD from Cambridge. Very riveting story.
Norene
Year One by Nora Roberts
Started off good but fizzled. Disappointed - not her usual standard.
Susan
Vox by Christina Dalcher
This is a book for the times we are in. Words are powerful. We take them for granted. But in the near future, the administration of the U.S. only allows girls and women to say 100 words per day. A special bracelet counts the words spoken and if you exceed 100, you are shocked. Women can no longer work, read and cameras installed in your home watch so you do not use sign language. What happens when the new president's brother has a stroke affecting the brain in which the protagonist is a specialist? How do the new laws affect school? How are families affected with the males being allowed everything normal and women nothing? Who is watching whom? Who obeys and who defies? Riveting, upsetting, thought-provoking.
Phyllis
The Warrmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson
Had a great discussion in my book club in which we talked about our own immigration/migration. The Great Migration is cleverly told through the interviews of three blacks from different walks of life who migrated to three cities in the North. Very interesting because our history books in the 60s and 70s never mentioned this important step in Black History! Highly recommended if history is your thing!
Jenelle
The Dream Daughter by Diane Chamberlain
A wonderful read with lots of surprises that will keep you on your toes. This is a time traveling book that is like no other I have ever read. The premise of the story of a pregnant young woman with a sick baby.
Ruth
The Winter Soldier by Daniel Mason
One of the best books I have read this year - recommended by both Anthony Doerr and Abraham Verghese - you know it must be good! Unforgetable.
kay
The Family Next Door by Sally Hepworth
I was interested in the beginning, but the style of a chapter per character did not work in this case. Kind of a been there-done-that feel to it. All the confusion for the twist that occurs two thirds of the way and races to a tidy conclusion.
Janice
Bluebird, Bluebird by Attica Locke
Several years ago I read this author's first novel, and enjoyed it, seeing that she definitely had talent and potential. Now, six years after that first book, she shows that her talent has only increased, her writing matured. BLUEBIRD, BLUEBIRD is set in east Texas, in the small town of Lark, where the racial tensions have been growing for years. Darren Matthews is a Texas Ranger, and a black man who also comes from a small east Texas town. Now there have been two murders in Lark, a black man and a young white woman. Darren goes there to investigate, quickly finding that there is virtually no one there he can trust. The relationships between the black and white citizens of Lark are beyond complex. 4.5 stars for me.
Sean
Ring Of Hate: Joe Louis Vs. Max Schmeling: The Fight Of The Century by Patrick Myler
This was so disappointing based on the interesting topic. First off, the publisher should be ashamed. This book is littered with typos, publishing errors, misspellings, etc. It was maddening to read. As for the actual writing, it was flat out bad. The writer had no idea how to lay the book out. The book centered on the two fighters, Louis and Schmeling, but would meander for no reason. Huge parts of their lives were glossed over for no apparent reason. There could have been 100 pages on just their two fights, instead this reads like a Wikipdeia entry. I wanted to love this book. Sadly, I don't know how anyone could.
Sheryl
Truth and Lies by Caroline Mitchell
What a fantastic start of a new series. This is DI Amy Winter; she's been put in charge over a specialized unit that deals with high-profile crimes. She's a force to be reckoned with that's for sure, and she's just buried her father who was a high-ranking officer within the MET. She's coming back from bereavement leave when she receives a mysterious letter that threatens to turn her carefully-constructed world on its ear. This is a fantastic book with several sub-plots that keeps it moving at a fast clip. I read this one day and I'm looking forward to the next book in this series. If you love thrillers, this is a must-read!
Linda
A Marquis to Marry by Amelia Grey
Alexander Raceworth (Race) inherited the famous Talbot pearls from his grandmother. He was surprised when he was visited by the Dowager Duchess of Blooming and heard her say the pearls were stolen from her family and she wanted them back. Race told her they were his and he was not giving them up. After a night spent with Susannah, Race came home to find the pearls had been stolen. He blamed her but soon realized he was wrong. Was the thief the infamous Captain Spyglass known for his love of pearls? Or was it Mr. Winston who was obtaining jewels on behalf of Prinny? Or was it Mr. Smith, an antiques dealer who had shown interest in the pearls?
Debbie
Dark Tide Rising by Anne Perry
Anne Perry delivers an amazing novel set in England. Perry develops many interesting characters, but in my mind, I feel that one of the characters has been forgotten. Hester has a man with a dubious past that maintains the bookkeeping for Hester’s clinic, but this man is never utilized when a bookkeeper is needed. Perry dwells on the setting and the reader can feel the dampness and despair of Jacob’s Island, a place descending into oblivion. The murder of Kate Exeter forces William Monk to question the men under his leadership. Who has betrayed the police force? Anne Perry delves into the past and current life of each of the policemen that went to Jacob’s Island, as Monk attempts to find murderer.
Linda
The Bear and the Nightingale by Katherine Arden
A story of old Russia and the superstitious people living in outlying areas. Vasilisa grew up loving the forest and honoring the spirits that lived there. Her mother had been looked on as a witch and this name was being given to Vasilisa. She was befriended by Morozko, the frost-demon, and saved by him when she was lost in the forest. His brother was Medved, the bear-demon, who delighted in killing. Morozko found a nightingale and turned it into a stallion named Solovey. At a final battle, the former nightingale that is now a stallion used its hoofs to fight off the bear from Vasilisa. I know everyone raved about this book but I don't understand all of the praise. Not my type of book.
Phyllis
Solace Island by Meg Tilly
With good characters, romance, humor, a few sexy scenes and layers of suspense, SOLACE ISLAND is an entertaining and fast-moving story. It's the perfect length for a weekend or quick read. I'm looking forward to reading more books by Meg Tilly. Thanks Penguin First to Read for the early copy.
Katherine
My Antonia by Willa Cather
A charming love story from the past.
LouAnn
The Women in the Castle by Jessica Shattuck
This was a wonderful book with a twist. Marianne was the wife of a German resister who tried to assinate Hitler. After her husband and the other resisters were arrested and killed she tried to locate the wives of the other resisters. She and the other women and their families spent the war holed up in an old family castle. It is a story of hardship, friendship and the effects of war on families. Wonderfully written.
Laua
The Soul of an Octopus by Sy Montgomery
What a surprise this book was. A really interesting look at the octopus. The author describes her relationships with the octopuses at the New England Aquarium and her search for them in the wild.
Dana
The Secret Language of Stones by M. J. Rose
This story takes place in Paris during World War I. It is a combination of intrigue, romance and magic. The main character, Opaline, has to come to grips with her gifts and the heritage of the Daughters of La Lune.
Ruth
The Winter Soldier by Daniel Mason
Outstanding novel about war in Poland.
Becky
Duel to the Death by J. A. Jance
I love Jance’s Brady and Beaumont mysteries, but am not so enamored of the Ali Reynolds series. Consequently, I have read a few of the series, but not all. I picked this one up because I was in need of a book and away from home. This one was available, so I gave it a try. I liked it – a lot! Ali is now married and no longer a journalist. She and her husband, along with a few others, run a cyber security firm. They find themselves in the midst of a mafia/drug lord war when their unassuming, slightly shy, perhaps autistic, computer genius employee finds himself suddenly possessed of a fortune in bitcoins – likely all the profits of said drug lord/mafia kingpins. The twists and turns of this!
Sean
Putting the One Minute Manager to Work by Ken Blanchard
While certainly dated, Kenneth Blanchard's follow-up to THE ONE MINUTE MANAGER is decent. It still reads terribly, like a piece of fiction. But what it does do is add some pieces that were missing from the first book. Showing ways on how to implement the One Minute Managerial style is definitely needed, but this book could have done with quite a few more examples. I loved the PRICE method and especially the pinwheel. I believe I'll be using that in the future. Overall, this book and the last should have been combined and the author should steer clear of cliched corny conversations.
Janet
The Family Next Door by Sally Hepworth
Interesting read. I enjoyed living in their neighborhood as I became engrossed in the characters.
Beth
Cottage by the Sea by Debbie Macomber
From tragedy at the beginning to a wonderful ending! Picking up and reading this over the weekend helped me to not focus on the food poisoning I had Friday night that lasted 12 hours. I was able to escape to the Pacific Northwest while reading this awesome book.
Vicki
Our House by Louise Candlish
A fraud of a different nature -- lie after lie and the resulting effects.
Tessa B C
Trans-Sister Radio by Chris Bohjalian
The novel is told by four central characters: Dana, Allison, Carley and Will. One of them is transgender. Bohjalian tackles blended families, small town politics, prejudice, marriage, relationships, and the idea of “love conquers all” in this novel. The story forces the reader to examine (and re-examine) the labels we assign to people and the knee-jerk reactions we have to those labels. I was intrigued and it held my interest, but I don’t think it’s Bohjalian’s best effort.
Sandra
Deadly Women (3 tales to Chill Your Bones, Book #7) by Mav Skye
Three tales. One taken somewhat from the headlines of real life. I really like short stories, and these were very good.
Helen
The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah
Fabulous story! Great book club read.
Martha
Desolation Mountain by William Kent Krueger
Krueger is a master of weaving a thriller with Native American spirituality and the setting of Northern Minnesota's lakes and forests. This story is another success. The airplane crash and deaths of a U. S. Senator and her family echo the questions surrounding a real, but similar tragedy, some years ago where Senator Paul Wellstone and wife and daughter died. Pilot error was the lame explanation in both these cases. I sometimes want to copy and keep quotations from the old Native American, Henry Meloux, in these stories, now 100 years old.
ROSEMARIE
The Au Pair by Emma Rous
This new book will be for sale on 1/8/19. I was lucky enough to win an ARC. As soon as I started to read it I was absorbed in it. I found it brought back memories of V.C. Andrews. The story was very clever and I found myself anxious to get back to it when I was interrupted. A family saga of secrets and mysteries. The only drawback I found was keeping the characters straight in my mind and remembering who they were and where they came from (all part of the plot). I think if you enjoy a good mystery with family aspects you will enjoy this one.
Linda
After Anna by Lisa Scottoline
Maggie and Noah's new life together is wonderful until Maggie's long-lost daughter appears. Things fall apart very quickly after that. The ending twist was a big surprise!
ROSEMARIE
Heads You Win by Jeffrey Archer
I am a Jeffrey Archer Fan...and this book does not disappoint. Very cleverly written. It tells the story of a young boy and what his life will become if a) he chooses heads and goes to London or b) he chooses tails and goes to NY. He starts out with him mother and you get to see what his choices bring him in life. Don't we all like to wonder if we chose the other path what would life be? Well in this novel Jeffrey Archer brings it to life. I do recommend this book to Archer fans, but I found it a little difficult to follow in certain parts. With that being said, do not hesitate to read this interesting book.
Luda
Dark Matter by Blake Crouch
This book is not in my "normal" genre at all, but it's one of the best I've read this year. Exciting, fast-paced, suspenseful...with a sweet underlying love story. I loved it!
Sheryl
Less by Rachel Aust
This isn't the first book I've purchased regarding Minimalism, but it's the first book that I've completely got the concept of life as a minimalist. Ms. Aust breaks it down so it's no so overwhelming and all about home decor and having one of everything. It's a way of life, not doing without. I've never seen it taken to such basics as financial to self-care. I've always been a neat freak on the outside but if you were to open my coat closet, you may end up in neck-brace. I hate clutter but I've never been one to organize my "stuff". This book is worth the money if you are looking to start living the life of even a semi-minimalist. I wish I had saved my money and started with this one because she makes it an obtainable goal.
Donna
Another Woman's Husband by Gill Paul
I enjoy historical fiction. This is the story of Wallis Simpson and friends in the thirties and Princess Diana at the time of her death. The parallels between the two royals was very interesting. The story jumps between the two eras and the people who were around and affected by these two iconic women. A must-read.
Mona
Lies by T. M. Logan
I received a complimentary copy from St. Martin’s Press in exchange for an honest review. It was a day like any other...until it wasn’t. Joe Lynch, the narrator was driving home with his young son, William, in the backseat. Spotting his mom’s car, William urges his dad to follow and surprise her. But, it was Joe who was in for a surprise when he spots his wife with another man.
Mona
Baby Teeth by Zoje Stage
Seemingly sweet Hanna lives with her parents, Suzette and Alex. They are a normal family, if a bit dysfunctional. Hanna doesn't talk. Despite of a myriad of tests, doctors can find nothing wrong, much to Suzette’s chagrin. Because, if there is something abnormal, mental or physical, it can be treated. That is, if the patient is compliant and cooperative, which Hanna is not, except when dad’s around. So, maybe it’s not that Hanna can’t talk, but that she won’t. She is the apple of Alex’s eye and Hanna loves her daddy, maybe a little too much. She wants him all to herself. There is just one obstacle standing in her way, mommy.
Marilyn
Winter Garden by Kristin Hannah
Engaging story of bond between sisters, their struggles with their mother as they stand by their dying father. At his wish they hear a most unbelievable love story. Lots of surprises in this captivating take.
Theresa
The Pajama Girls of Lambert Square by Rosina Lippi
I read a lot of books...this one was a true delight. With endearing and likable characters it portrays life in a charming Southern town you’ll wish you could visit. Lippi deftly handles heartbreak, sorrow, phobias, recovery, prejudice, family conflict, love and the return to joy. It left me smiling!
Elizabeth
The Third Hotel by Laura van den Berg
The book flap on THE THIRD HOTEL calls it “surreal” and “mystifying.” I think that is a nice way of saying “unintelligible” and “confusing.” The story made little sense to me. I read and reread paragraphs, hoping that the problem was my own inattention. Perhaps Laura van den Berg said something that I missed, which was certainly possible; she snuck details into paragraphs that seemed to have nothing to do with anything. I could be wrong when I describe this story. I can only say this is how it seemed. Clare seems to be having a nervous breakdown after her husband died. I doubt my impression about this, though, because she also didn’t seem with-it in some of her flashbacks from before he died.
Jan
Twisted Prey by John Sandford
John Sandford never disappoints. His mysteries are easy reading and he always gets justice in the end. This is a Lucas Davenport mystery but includes characters from a previous novel. It can stand alone. A criminal from Minnesota, now a U.S. Senator and a friend of Davenport, also a U.S. Senator, are the focal characters of this mystery. The "good" senator is almost killed and his companion is killed in a freak auto accident. Lucas knows that this is a professional job and has to convince locals to help him gather information, while a West Virginia state trooper agrees with Lucas that this accident has some "strange elements." Lucas has to be alert and almost gets killed a couple of times. A good Lucas Davenport mystery!
Pam
Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
Lyrical and heart-wrenching, this story transports the reader to the lowlands of the NC coast and shows how one lonely girl comes of age in its beautiful marshes.
Carol
Happiness Is a Choice You Make by John Leland
Just not that interesting. Read for book club. Lots of theories quoted.
Becky
The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah
Which would you rather do? Die by freezing, starving or being mauled to death by “Alaska” or die at the hands of your abusive, PTSD-addled father? The wildness of nature and the difficulties of surviving in Alaska during the 1970s and 80s is made excruciating clear. The terror of living with an out of control abuser suffering from PTSD after surviving as a POW in Viet Nam is also clear. The relationships between mother and daughter, mother and father, Leni and Matthew, father and Mad Earl, among others, are clear and determine the vector and velocity of the plot.
Donna
Lilac Girls by Martha Hall Kelly
Really enjoyed LILAC GIRLS and look forward to a new Martha Hall Kelly book in the future. I bought this book because of the excellent reviews on it. Also, I wanted to try something other than mystery thrillers I usually read. LILAC GIRLS was a breath of fresh air. I'm glad I took a risk on it. I will be more open-minded in the future and try other genres than I am used to.
Linda
The Misfortune of Marion Palm by Emily Culliton
This book is mis-advertised. The blurbs on the back say it is "subversively comic" and an "addictive confection;" also "comic." I found it sad. Marion is a lifelong embezzler, and after she absconds with money she's embezzled, her young children go off the rails, and her nitwit husband can't handle things. His problems and solutions were mildly amusing, but this seemed more like a cautionary tale to me.
Carol
Anything Is Possible by Elizabeth Strout
This was another great book from Elizabeth Strout. Not a sequel to MY NAME IS LUCY BARTON but a visit with her and many of the characters we met in that novel. Each chapter checks in on one or more of those characters to see how their lives have progressed or to get a bit of history of them.
Lynn
Founding Brothers: The Revolutionary Generation by Joseph J. Ellis
Takes a while to read, but totally worth it if you're into American history.
Francisca E B
Ethan Frome by Edith Wharton
I love Edith Wharton’s writing. I love the way she explores relationships and unfulfilled desires. The tension is palpable, the yearning almost unendurable. The setting is Starkfield, Massachusetts, in winter, as if the reader needs a reminder of how depressing and lacking in color Ethan’s life is. Though I was reading in the midst of a summer heat wave, I felt chilled.
Becky
Everlasting Nora by Marire Miranda Cruz
Nora, 12, lives in her father’s grave house in a Philippine cemetery. Written for middle graders, this novel will be eye-opening to adults as well. Nora and her mother have descended into crushing poverty and survive because Nora makes and sells flower garlands to visitors to other graves. Her friend JoJo, 13, and his grandmother assist as well as they can when Nora’s mother becomes quite ill. Nora is well defined as a normal child who wants normal things. American preteens will identify with her and with JoJo, who has never attended school and is his grandmother’s support. The “bad guys” (who are truly bad) are glossed over. Friendship, initiative, caring, hope, forgiveness, determination are all good traits.
Trez
Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
A beautifully-written book. Mystery, romance, knowledge and adventure all rolled into one work of art. I am sure this will be one of my favorite books.
ILene
Miss Buncle Married by D. E. Stevenson
MISS BUNCLE MARRIED, what a delightful second book to the “Miss Buncle Book” series! It starts where Barbara Buncle Abbot, newly married and having to move from her Silverstream home because everyone knew she was the author John Smith. She had to earn money and being very bored, told stories about her neighbors, although changing their names. The stories were not always in the best light. Now we find Barbara looking for a house in a new neighborhood. We meet new neighbors with great stories, but will she be able to refrain from writing about them? Loved this book, can’t wait until the next in the series.
