February 20, 2009 - March 5, 2009
Last contest period's winners were Annie, Cindy, Jaye, Sue and Tim, who each received a copy of BLOOD AND BONE by William Lashner, THE HELP by Kathryn Stockett and VERY VALENTINE by Adriana Trigiani.
| Jean |
| Dead and Berried by Karen MacInerney |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is the second in the Gray Whale Inn series that takes place in a cozy bed and breakfast on Cranberry Island, off the coast of Maine. I am very impressed in this series. A great cozy mystery series that has some substance and recipes too! |
| Jean |
| Deadly Advice by Roberta Isleib |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I really enjoyed this cozy mystery centered around a psychologist/amateur sleuth. Something about all the depressing economic news makes me want to curl up with a cozy mystery. I am definitely going to read other books by this author. |
| Debbie (delphimo@yahoo.com) |
| Birds of a Feather by Jacqueline Winspear |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This is the second Maisie Dobbs mystery set in England in 1930s, connected to World War I. In this tale, The White Feather Woman's Movement comes into play when three women are murdered. Also, Maisie's dad and assistant seek help for physical therapy. A look at the world before modern conveniences. |
| Judy |
| The Cellist of Sarajevo by Steven Galloway |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A small book that packs a big wallop. It consists of the stories of 4 different Sarajevans during the Siege of Sarajevo: the cellist who plays for 22 days in honor of 22 people killed in a bread line, a young man getting drinking water for his family, an older man seeking bread, and a young female sniper. War changes the very soul of people, but the soul is individual and, at times, indestructible. The thread of music weaves through this incredible story of humanity and what passes for daily life in a war-torn city. |
| Ruth |
| Little Heathens by Mildred Armstrong Kalish |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I am so enjoying this memoir of growing up on an Iowa farm during the great depression. |
| Cynthia Plaza-Harney |
| The Shiniest Jewel by Marian Henley |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This book is a memoir which was written as a comic strip. I won this book, received it today and read it. The writer thought outside the box and it is a wonderful way to read a good story. It is a family love story, but presented in an unforgettable style. It is a must read. |
| Brenda Klaassen |
| Knit Two by Kate Jacobs |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I enjoyed this book as much as the first book in the series. I was really surprised by the accident at Walker & Daughter. I did not enjoy the character of Dakota as much this time as I did in the first book. I liked the pattern and recipes, but I do wish there were a few more. I might try my hand at knitting because of the interesting stories this author writes. I was glad to see the friendships held strong. I like the comfortable writing style of this author. |
| Dale |
| A Prayer for Owen Meany by John Irving |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Very good book about a boy, Owen, who has more knowledge than some adults. |
| Cynthia |
| Stealing Athena by Karen Essex |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is a novel with real women from our past. I love the story, the real women and going back to history. After reading the book, I found myself wanting learn more about the two women, Aspasia (lived some 2500 years ago) and Mary (lived 200 years ago). I love the writing and how the author shows how much these two women do have in common and how there are women today that do as well. Very educational. |
| Robin (rmayerhoefer@cox.net) |
| The Inner Circle by T. C. Boyle |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
The narrator of THE INNER CIRCLE is a college student who finds himself working as a sex researcher for Professor Alfred Kinsey. While I'd heard of Kinsey of course, I'd not read anything about him and wasn't very familiar with his work, so while this is a work of fiction it is still pretty fascinating. |
| Kaye |
| Irreplaceable by Stephen Lovely |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
In Stephen Lovely's debut novel, he delves into the hearts and minds of his characters in the aftermath of the tragic death of Isabel, a young botanist. In the prologue, we meet Isabel riding her bicycle in a race to arrive home before a threatening storm breaks. The author does a wonderful job of building up the sense of urgency on Isabel's part. A truck cresting the hill does not see her in time and the inevitable happens. The story goes back and forth in time and gives the reader deeper insight into the circumstances before and after the accident. It also details in a very well-written manner the ripple effects to all directly involved and their families. Alex, the grieving widower, is not only having a hard time with the fact that he lost his wife so tragically, but the fact that she was an organ donor, never having been comfortable with the idea of pieces of his wife being parceled out to others. Isabel's mother, on the other hand, takes comfort in the fact that somewhere out there, Isabel's heart is still beating. This is really at the crux of the story. Alex seems to resent the fact that he has suffered so much for someone else's gain. Add in the heart recipient and all the angst associated with being in need of an organ donation, the upset to normal family life and marriage, you have the recipe for a story of intense feelings. One more ingredient to stir the plot is the addition of the truck driver, who in order to assuage his guilt, begins to think the recipient should be grateful to him for the accident that took one life has now saved hers. Even though the donor program is supposed to be confidential, somehow the people involved learn of each other's existence and that is when the multitude of problems begin. I found this a really interesting novel, seeing the perspective of the characters from both sides of the accident. It was almost hard for me to fathom why some of them felt the way they did, especially the involvement of the truck driver. Lovely managed to explore these feelings from all angles and they were revealed via flashback mode in a plot that was truly intriguing. Not only did I want to find out what happened to Alex, but also the family members of the recipient. There were several spots that were a little wordy, especially describing the heart donor process, but other than that, the book totally held my attention and was extremely well written. Recommended for book clubs. |
| Debbie (delphimo@yahoo.com) |
| The Maisie Dobbs series by Jacqueline Winspear |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
A series set in England after World War I, about a servant, Maisie Dobbs, who overcomes all to open her own detective agency. The first case leads to other problems and back to Maisie's ex-boyfriend. A look at a girl of determination and courage. |
| Janis Apgar |
| Same Kind Of Different As Me by Denver Moore and Ron Hall |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is a true story of what seems like two very different men who find out they aren't so different after all. It is a wonderful story of friendship, learning to trust/believe and to not judge. I would highly recommend this book. |
| Fran |
| The Life You Longed For by Maribeth Fischer |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A hauntingly beautiful fictional account of a woman who is accused of Munchausen by proxy syndrome. Her son is terminally ill, diagnosed with a rare, mysterious disease, determined to be Mitochondrial disease. Beautiful written, the author interweaves a comparison to the Salem Witch trials into this modern-day story of a family in turmoil. |
| Linda B |
| The Tailor's Daughter by Janice Graham |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A very good historical romance novel about a deaf tailor's daughter and her relationship with a noble peer of the realm. It's interesting to read about how Veda learns to cope with her disability, and the ins and outs of the tailoring trade in Victorian London. |
| Linda M. Johnson (tcheer4life@yahoo.com) |
| The Sex Lives of Cannibals by J. Maarten Troost |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Part Bill Bryson and part Kenneth C. Davis, Troost recounts his two years on a primitive island in the South Pacific where his girlfriend has committed to a job. Interesting read that needs to be savored, not rushed. |
| Kerri |
| If You Really Loved Me by Ann Rule |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is a true crime book about manipulation and betrayal resulting in the death of a young woman, as the step-daughter is convicted and sentenced at the age of 14. There is more to the story about how the father used and manipulated her and others. A very good story. |
| Janis A. |
| Kabul Beauty School by Deborah Rodriequez |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Nonfiction book telling of an American hairdresser's experience in Kabul. She eventually opens a beauty school to help the women there. She soon finds that women and beauty parlors are much the same everywhere! A very interesting read showing the sad, but determined lives of the women there. |
| Marsha |
| Dirty Money by Richard Stark |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Although this is a stand-alone book, it makes more sense if you have read the previous novel, which sets the whole premise, NOBODY RUNS FOREVER. Parker and his misfit cohorts have stashed their stolen money in a deserted church and now have to figure out how to retrieve it under the watchful eyes of the law. |
| Crystal Adkins (crystal72206@yahoo.com) |
| Once Bitten by Kaylana Price |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Kita, of the Nekai cat-shifter clan, has been on the run from her destiny for five years. She uses her shifter ability to become a lonely starving house cat, moving from place to place until she ends up in Haven, and her whole life changes. Kita's clan has strong shifters such as lions and tigers, ans so a small calico kitty has no place in ruling those that will always be much larger than her. Kita discovers she has much bigger fish to fry and turns from the hunted to the hunter, and in a way the hunted again. Nathanial saved her life by killing her --- he made her a vampire and now she's a vampire with claws that refuses to feed. Waking up from being drugged, Kita has no idea what to expect from the crazy lady, Mama Neda, or the man she refers to as Hermit. To make matters worse, her old friend from the Firth is in Haven to take Kita back home, and there is a judge who just put a death sentence on Kita, Nathanial, and Bobby's lives. Kita is accused of making a rogue shifter who is murdering girls left and right, so Kita and her companions have 2 days to catch the shifter or the demons will come to collect their souls. ONCE BITTEN by Kalayna Price is a Vampire/Shifter Paranormal Fantasy novel that I think would appeal to mostly Young Adults. While it was a nice read, it seemed a little sluggish at times. I did find a few inconsistencies in the story as well as some spelling errors, and I will have to check with the author on her feelings of vampires and reflections. This is the first book in the Haven series, and I think with the more Ms. Price writes, the better she will become. Young Adult girls will swoon over the strong male characters and try to be just like Kita. 4 Hearts. |
| Reva Wamsley (prwamsley@roadrunner.com) |
| Blind Side by Catherine Coulter |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is the first book I've read of this series and I really enjoyed it. A little boy is kidnapped, but manages to escape. He is rescued by a small-town woman sheriff but the kidnappers don't give up. They keep coming back. Why would anyone want this little boy that badly? |
| F Tessa Bartels |
| Out of Africa by Isak Dinnesen (Karen Blitzen) |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
If you're expecting the movie, you'll be disappointed. Dennys is hardly mentioned at all. The real love affair of her life was her love of Africa --- the land, the people, the experience. The writing is glorious. |
| F Tessa Bartels |
| Gonzalez and Daughter Trucking Co. by Maria Amparo Escandon |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A compelling story, even if it leaves some loose threads. Lots of vivid imagery. A passionate, "Mexican" story. My Hispanic Professionals book club really enjoyed this book. |
| Crystal Adkins (crystal72206@yahoo.com) |
| Kill For Me by Karen Rose |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Let me start off by saying this is probably going to be one of the shortest reviews I have ever written. in a good way! I am afraid if I go into too much detail, that it would be a spoiler to those that have read the other books in the series. Karen Rose is the author of DIE FOR ME, and SCREAM FOR ME, a New York Timesbestseller. I can see why she made the bestseller list! Having not read her two previous books in this trilogy, I did at times feel like I had missed out on some major crucial details in KILL FOR ME, but every single moment of this book was engaging, and suspenseful to the max! Susannah Vartanian was one of the girls raped thirteen years ago by a group of young rich boys, and has yet to be able to live a normal life. With the help of Agent Luke Papadopoulos, the whole PD and FBI Dept's in Dutton, Georgia and a few other states, Susannah may finally get some insight into her past, and find out what her brother Simon had going on in his sick head. Susannah is about to discover that her whole life has been something other than what she has known, and she will have to do something she has never done before --- lean on Luke to help her through this --- which may prove to be more difficult that either could have ever expected. Nothing is as it seems in KILL FOR ME; there are so many dark buried secrets, a huge cast of characters, and a whole lot of danger. Explosive, cunning, and purely magnificent, I have no other choice but to pick up the other two novels I haven't read. Karen Rose has got the skill it takes to enthrall a reader. In the beginning, I was overwhelmed because as I said, I think I missed a lot of history from not reading DIE FOR ME and SCREAM FOR ME. This shouldn't be a stand-alone book, but somehow, it kind of works. 5 Hearts. |
| F Tessa Bartels |
| Blindsighted by Karen Slaughter |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
For me, the novel was disappointing because I'd heard such good things about this author. I thought Sara was an idiot, lacking judgment and intelligence. I didn't think the forensics were very accurate, either. Also, I guessed the killer fairly early on. In fairness, I was a little freaked out to find a character named Tessa in a thriller/mystery featuring a serial psycho killer, and that probably colored my own impressions. I'll give the author another try. |
| Kathy Vieira |
| Shelter Me by Juliette Fay |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Lovely and heartbreaking story of Janie, a recent widow with 2 very young children. Written so well that I didn't want to put it down, it's hard to believe that this is Ms. Fay's first novel. She is scheduled to call in to our book discussion group in a couple of weeks and I can't wait! What a pleasure! I can't wait for her next book. |
| Susan in AZ |
| Freshman for President by Ally Condie |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This one's a tad bit improbable. A 15 year old decides to run for President of the United States, but if you can see past the improbability, you'll enjoy this light-hearted, upbeat story of Milo J. Wright's campaign. |
| Susan in AZ |
| Enna Burning by Shannon Hale |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is the sequel to THE GOOSE GIRL. It focuses on Enna, who gets the gift of fire-speaking from her brother. Although the gift makes her feel powerful, it's also all-consuming. She uses her power to help save her country from its enemies, but will the fire's power prove to be too much for her? An engrossing and multi-layered novel. |
| Sharon C. |
| Humpty Dumpty was Pushed by Marc Blatte |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
"Humpty Dumpty was pushed. Nothing happens by accident and lightning can strike twice in the same spot." Who murdered the big man with the yellow socks? This story takes us from a hip-hop recording studio to a New York City nightclub to a socialite's home in the Hamptons. Detective Salvatore Messina, aka Black Sallie Blue Eyes, is a smart cop with a criminal profiler mind. He dreams of keeping the streets safe, but this case has him working to keep his captain, the record producers and the socialites from breathing down his neck, AND --- as fate has it --- his ex-wife is back in New York City. Scholar, a gritty ex-con, has a dream to be a top hip hop executive, but money and the higher ups are getting in his way. Even his cousin Biz, a record producer, can't help him reach his goal. Vooko, an Albanian nightclub bouncer, dreams about finding his cousin's killer. Moving from a war-torn country to the streets of New York City wasn't much of a transition. It's bad enough with the language barrier, but the traditions and ways of life are even more challenging. Kal Kessler, wealthy socialite drug addict, dreams of earning his father's approval. Unfortunately, he hangs with "the boys", enjoys fast cars and hard drugs. Marc Blatte's first novel is "da bomb". The suspense, colorful hip-hop slang, character nicknames and humorous banter kept me turning the pages. He has created the first "wonderful hip-hop noir mystery" that even a farm girl from Iowa couldn't put down. |
| Crystal Adkins (crystal72206@yahoo.com) |
| No Escape by Shannon K. Butcher |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Out of the blue, Grant Kent receives a call from a woman he has not seen in fourteen years. Panic in her voice makes him nervous, so he drives to Springfield Missouri, a place that --- after his horrible past --- he said he would never return to. After all, killing a man doesn't exactly put you in everyone's good graces, even if the man is a pedophile, child rapist, and a foster father. Grant saved Isabelle Carson, but he couldn't save those that were already molested. Isabelle Carson knows that people are being murdered; they're not simply committing suicide like the police and papers are saying. Someone is killing her friends, but does it seem at all coincidental that these recent "suicides" were all residents of the same foster family she was from fourteen years ago? It would seem that Edgar Lavine is killing from the underworld, but with not much evidence, it is hard to prove a murderer is on the loose and out for revenge. Isabelle has always had feelings for Grant, and Grant for Isabelle. Time and distance makes the heart grow fonder, and an explosion of drama and danger brings these two star characters together in an unforgettable way. When Dale, Isabelle's foster son, is taken by his newly paroled father, all hell breaks loose. While Isabelle tries not to be killed, by accident, poison, or by someone she trusts, Grant is trying to prove his innocence, find out who is killing these people, and attempt to get Dale back before something horrible happens to him. Shannon K. Butcher is a brand new author for me, but I very much enjoyed her work. Exquisite detailing, believable characters, and love so true and pure it could overcome any boundary, Ms. Butcher is simply bewitching. 4 Hearts. |
| Marsha |
| Privileged Information by Stephen White |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is the introductory novel featuring Alan Gregory, a clinical psychologist, who is faced with ethical questions concerning an ex-patient who is threatening his female patients and women close to him. Quite a thriller. |
| Kellie (acountkel@bellsouth.net) |
| Knit Two by Kate Jacobs |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I enjoyed this sequel to THE FRIDAY NIGHT KNITTING CLUB. The club is getting over the loss of their good friend --- Dakota's mother, Georgia --- and they are coping with the changes in their lives: Darwin and Dan's pregnancy, Anita and Marty's cohabitation, Dakota growing up, Luci and her business, KC and her stress, and Catherine and her failed relationships. I liked the path the author took for the club. Although, the ending was a bit cliché, I liked how it came together. Who knows, there could be a "Knit 3." If so, I'd read it. |
| Sara |
| Army Wives by Tanya Biank |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
It's a little confusing at first, but once I got into it, I loved it. I couldn't put it down. I love the Lifetime show and have been trying to read the book since the first episode. I am glad I did. |
| Ray (rayhensley@hotmail.com) |
| Winning The Disability Challenge by John F. Tholen |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is a great book for a person fighting disability. It is easy to read and provides great advice for newly-disabled individuals. |
| Judy O. (joswood@msn.com) |
| Sweetsmoke by David Fuller |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Cassius Howard is a slave during the Civil War. He is a carpenter on the plantation of Hoke Howard, his master. Cassius risks everything, mostly his life, to find out the truth behind the murder of a freed black woman named Emoline. We travel with Cassius right to the front lines of the war and experience the terrible carnage there. This is excellent historical fiction that shows a time in history that most of us would like to believe never happened. |
| Sandra F. |
| Malice in London by Graham Thomas |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is the 4th book in this detective series set in England. There does not appear to be any more, and that is a shame because they are well written. |
| Sandra F. |
| The Cat Who Knew Shakespeare by Lilian Jackson Braun |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This is a good read if you are a fan of cat mysteries. |
| Pota (thirddayaz@hotmail.com) |
| The Living Dead by John Joseph Adams |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
THE LIVING DEAD is a collection of short stories about zombies by famous mystery and thriller authors. Some of the stories I had previously read, like "Home Delivery" by Stephen King and "Bobby Conroy comes back from the grave" by Joe Hill. All in all, I found it an enjoyable book. |
| Judy |
| Bone by Bone by Carol O'Connell |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Twenty years ago, two teenage brothers go into the woods and only one comes out. Now that brother, Owen, has returned to Coventry. Josh, the missing boy, is coming home piece by piece, bone by bone. Someone is leaving his skeletal remains on the family porch. Coventry is a haven for oddballs and secrets. The town is a festival of eccentricity, but also may host a cold-blooded killer. The real fun of the book is the rich characterizations of the townspeople and their relationship to each other. While the mystery is paramount to the story, it does take a backseat to the characters. |
| Debbie (delphimo@yahoo.com) |
| Split Second by David Baldacci |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
A presidential candidate is killed while the Secret Service agent is distracted, then the killer is killed. Eight years later, a different presidential candidate is kidnapped. What do the two cases have in common? As more bodies are added to the growing count, Agent Michelle Maxwell and ex-agent Sean King, race to decipher the mystery. |
| Tanya |
| The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson and Reg Keeland |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is a wonderful book. It took me 75 pages to get hooked. Great characters are working together to solve a 40-year-old family mystery and bring down corruption at the same time. It is a thriller and mystery all in one book. |
| Wendy from West Virginia |
| Naked Prey by John Sandford |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Number 14 in the Lucas Davenport series proves that John Sandford has not lost a step. NAKED PREY is a well-written thrill ride from beginning to end. I especially loved the character of Letty, whose repartee with Davenport made the book all the more delightful. |
| Sharron |
| Shelter Me by Juliette Fay |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Very predictable, yet very readable. Good book for entertainment. |
| Sharron |
| Tethered by Amy MacKinnon |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
Disturbing book about child molestation and murder as seen through the eyes of a female agnostic undertaker. You get way more info about the funeral business than is necessary. |
| Andrea |
| The Associate by John Grisham |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This book felt forced to me. I have read nearly all of Mr. Grisham's books and generally enjoy them, but this one felt like it had been done before, not fresh. Only for die-hards, I fear. |
| Louise |
| If She Should Die by Carlene Thompson |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Oh, dear, I discovered another author I want to get hooked on. I Can't say enough good things about this book! It was definitely a page turner for me, and I found myself getting up in the middle of the night to read a few more pages. One girl's mysterious disappearance causes more complications and murders than the killer ever expected (years later). A main character to the story, a mentally challenged young boy, was particularly endearing, and it was interesting to see how he was regarded by others. The icing on the cake: NO sex (other than references to affairs) and no offensive language (that I can remember). I can hardly wait to find more OF Carlene Thompson's stories! |
| Louise |
| Temptation by Jude Deveraux |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I had planned to donate this book to my library, but wanted to hurry and read it first. Now I have decided it's definitely a keeper! Temperance is the name of the heroine, which is very fitting considering what her life's ambition is. The story takes place in the early 1900s, where Temperance is a somewhat famous crusader for Women's Rights. Against her will, she is forced to move to Scotland and longs and plots for the day she can return to NY to further her work. But, will she run into circumstances in a small run-down village in Scotland that might make her reconsider? |
| Linda Bedell |
| Homicide Special by Miles Corwin |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
A look at LAPD's Homicide Special Department since the O.J. Simpson trial. Interesting and enlightening. |
| Chris |
| Whistling in the Dark by Lesley Kagen |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A story of the O'Malley girls, Sally and Troo, who endure a summer in the '50s when their little town is terrorized by a killer, their mother goes to the hospital for a routine surgery and almost dies, and they are left to fend off a violent stepfather. The cast of characters you meet will stay with you long after the book is done. |
| Genie |
| The Quilter's Legacy by Jennifer Chiaverini |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Elm Creek Quilts founder Sylvia Bergstrom Compson begins a search for five quilts made by her mother, Eleanor, who died when Sylvia was 10. Sylvia and Eleanor's stories alternate. Sylvia, an elderly widow, prepares to marry her longtime friend, Andrew, despite his children's oppositions. Her mother's story begins at the turn of the century when Eleanor, daughter of an affluent New York family, defies her mother by quilting with her nanny, Amelia Langley. When Eleanor's sister, Abigail, elopes with her father's business rival, her parents arrange for her to take her sister's place. Eleanor runs away rather than be forced to marry Abigail's jilted fiance. On her way out of the house, a car pulls up and Eleanor's young friend, Fred Bergstrom, is at the wheel. He asks Eleanor to marry him and so begins their life together on his Pennsylvania horse farm at Elm Creek. As Sylvia begins her search through various quilt shops and museums for her mother's quilts, she begins to realize how much she doesn't know about her own family history. She soon realizes the need to piece together as much of her mother's life story as she can and sets about this task much the same way as she would begin to piece together a new quilt. |
| Mary Ann |
| Saving Grace by Lee Smith |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Well written. It is a different look into the preacher revivals of the South in the '50s and '60s. It tells the story of Grace growing up with a traveling preacher dad who is a snake handler, and her beautiful mother who was devoted to him. It takes us through her childhood to marriage, motherhood, betrayal and redemption. |
| Maureen H |
| Kissing Sin by Keri Arthur |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is book 2 in the Riley Jenson, Guardian series. Riley is a werewolf with a touch of vampire coursing through her blood. Riley and her twin, Rhoan, work together for an organization who police supernatural races. In this book, Riley wakes up in an alley. She is bruised and has to fight to escape, and she helps a stallion escape with her. It turns out this stallion is also a shifter. His name is Kade and he is yummy. They are being pursued by the beings they escaped from and it is really fun reading this book. I cannot wait to finish and continue onto the next in the series, TEMPTING EVIL. |
| Genie |
| The Full Cupboard of Life by Alexander McCall Smith |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
What a great series. This story was particularly eventful. Precious Ramotswe is hired by Mma Holonga, the owners of a chain of hair salons, to do a background check on four suitors to see which were only interested in her money. Mma Potokwane decides the Mr. J.L.B. Matekoni should don a parachute and sky dive as a fund raiser for the orphan farm. Mma Ramotswe cleverly devises a way to transfer this duty to one of the mechanic apprentices, Charlie. Its amazing what this young man will do to win the admiration of the local girls. The most important event in this book is the long-awaited wedding of Mma Ramotswe and Mr. J.L.B. Matekoni. |
| Marsha |
| Chasing Darkness by Robert Crais |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This Elvis Cole novel rates right up there with his other top books. Elvis, Joe Pike and a few other cohorts investigate the death of a suspected serial killer. This is a man that Elvis provided an alibi for several years earlier. Now Elvis wonders if he unwittingly helped clear a killer. |
| Liza |
| Still River by Harry Hunsicker |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This is a murder mystery that is keeping my interest. Lee H. Oswald, a Dallas private investigator with a very unlucky name, looks into the suspicious death of a friend's brother. Soon, he is being followed as she is following leads. It's a very light read. |
| T. Thomas |
| Charles and Emma: The Darwin's Leap of Faith by Deborah Heiligman |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is a young adult book, but it is worth the time of adults as well. It is the love story of Charles and Emma Darwin and their lives together. |
| Sandy |
| The Land of Mango Sunsets by Dorothea Benton Frank |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
The book was enjoyable and very easy to read. It was not heavy or hard to understand. Light reading, which is just what I needed. I will have to try some of this author's other books. |
| Kathy Vallee |
| Ghost at Work by Carolyn Hart |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is a new series by Carolyn Hart. In this one, Bailey Ruth is sent to heaven. After some time there, she decides that she would like to go back to earth to help people. After Woggens gives her the rules, off she goes, and not only finds herself in her hometown but also in the future. It is a great story, and I hope there is more to come. |
| Bridget |
| City of God by Beverly Swerling |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It takes place in New York City from the early 1800s to just before the Civil War. It centers on the early hospitals and the groups that controlled them. The development of the science of medicine is covered in this book in a way that is very interesting to read. The main characters are "real" and I was very interested in them and wanted to learn what became of them. I hope Ms. Swerling follows it up with a sequel. |
| Barbara Sharpe |
| Men of the Otherworld by Kelley Armstrong |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I'm a huge fan of this series, so I was expecting to like this book. I was dubious, though, because I'm not a fan of prequels, generally. This one is the exception. If you haven't read any of the Women of the Otherworld books, start with this one, then read them in order. They have great character development while having a plotline that keeps your interest, too. |
| Linda L. |
| At the Villa of Reduced Circumstances by Alexander McCall Smith |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Professor Dr. von Igelfeld is always good for a chuckle, and these two stories of his sojourns abroad are no exception. McCall Smith hits all the right notes to capture the humorous side of academic pretensions. |
| Juanita |
| Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet by Jamie Ford |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This has really grasped my interest. I love the way the author travels back to the '40s. I feel like I am living those in those times. It is really a piece of our history. |
| Harriet Stay (hstay@hughes.net) |
| Frozen Tracks by Ake Edwardson and Laurie Thompson |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Since I've been enjoying all the Scandinavian mystery writers, when this came along, I thought why not? This appears to be the third in the series with Detective Chief Inspector Erik Winter and takes place in Gothenburg, Sweden. Child abductions have taken place. Or have they? Not one is missing. They simply report strange events. Another crime case is the attack on several college students. So far, no one is killed, but some are severely injured. Finding the "why" in both cases is the puzzler. This is another author who weaves magic with his characters and story. |
| Harriet Stay (hstay@hughes.net) |
| Arctic Chill by Arnaldur Indridason |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A friend recommended I read Indridason and five books later, I am still enjoying the series. It is set in Reykjavik, Iceland, and centeres on protagonist Erlender and his team of police detectives. Aside from being a murder mystery, this brings to the forefront tensions in this multicultural society. Characters are easily brought to life as is this snow-covered land. Indridason is the recipient of the CWA Gold Dagger and well-deserved. This is another top-notch winner. |
| Sharon |
| Paula by Isabel Allende |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Isabel Allende wrote this book as she sat by the side of her comatose daughter's bed telling of her family's history so when her daughter "woke up" she would not feel so lost. It is an incredibly written saga and the reader feels as though they are in the next bed of the hospital listening to her tell her daughter of their history. It is excellent. |
| Chris |
| For Women Only by Shaunti Feldhahn |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This was a short, easy read that revealed some "plain truths" of the inner workings of men's lives. Feldhahn surveyed thousands of men about their relationships and puts what she learned on the pages of her book. Some of the interesting topics included pornography, the male psyche, and physical appearance. |
| Linda H. (linda604b@yahoo.com) |
| The Next Accident by Lisa Gardner |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
FBI Agent Quincy Pierce's daughter has been killed in a traffic accident and the evidence points to a DUI. Unfortunately, before her car crashed into a tree, she hit and killed a man who was out walking his dog. After languishing for a year with brain injuries, her parents reluctantly pulled the plug. But Quincy was never satisfied with the verdict and felt there was more to it. He called on the help of an old friend, Rainie Conner, who is now a practicing private investigator. Together, they face an unknown person who has assumed Quincy's identity and has targeted his family. But can they find out who it is before time runs out? This book is skillfully written and will be hard to put down until you get to the final pages. |
| Madeline |
| Out Stealing Horses by Per Pettersen and Anne Born |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
The writing is elegant and lovely, and every word is crucial (no skimming paragraphs here or you'll miss something integral to the plot). It was a pleasure to read. |
| Linda H. (linda604b@yahoo.com) |
| Stripped by Brian Freeman |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
As Detective Jonathan Stride works toward solving a senseless killing, he finds this murder is linked to a murder of a beautiful stripper that occurred 40 years ago in Las Vegas. She was found murdered in a swimming pool outside a high roller suite and her murder was attributed to an unknown vagrant. But as Stride and his fellow detectives work to unravel the crime, they find that the killings in Reno are also linked to one of the strippers in Las Vegas. What is the connection? Is someone exacting revenge? The answers will keep you guessing up to the final chapter. |
| Linda H. (linda604b@yahoo.com) |
| Stalked by Brian Freeman |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Detective Jonathan Stride is back in Duluth, Minnesota and Serena Dial, his partner from Las Vegas, is with him and is now working as a private investigator. Maggie Bei, Stride's partner, is in trouble as she is believed to be responsible for her husband's murder. Stride has worked with Maggie for many years and knows that she is incapable of the crime. As he works toward solving the murder, Serena has been hired by the county attorney to pay off a blackmailer and is being stalked by the blackmailer. As Stride gets deeper into his investigation, he finds that deep secrets are being kept by some people in Duluth which tie into the murder of Maggie's husband. This suspenseful book will keep you turning pages to find out who the murderer is. |
| Linda H. (linda604b@yahoo.com) |
| The Perfect Husband by Lisa Gardner |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Don't read this book at night if you are alone! "The perfect husband" is a psychotic killer who masquerades as an authority figure, either police officer or security guard. His wife found out the hard way when he almost killed her before being captured by the police and sent to prison. But now he has escaped after killing two prison guards. His wife Tess has hired a former Marine and mercenary to help her get in shape to kill him because she knows he will come after her again. In his eyes, she is unfinished business. Using many disguises, he eludes one police net after another and now the FBI is also involved. What will it take to bring this evil man down? Can Tess get him before he kills her? |
| Melissa Applin (mapplin@cyber-south.com) |
| Hanchart Land by Becky Barker |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Cerridwen Press, an extension of Ellora's Cave, publishes this book. Even though I'm not a huge cowboy romance fan, I really did enjoy this love story. It was endearing and sexy all at the same time. I love a physically and emotionally strong hero who knows what he wants. It's a good choice if you just want to read something quick and easy. I read it in a day. I only rated it 4 stars instead of 5 because of the length. |
| Vicki |
| Night by Elie Wiesel |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This was one of the most powerful books I have ever read. I could not tear myself away from it. |
| Linda K. (writermom6@yahoo.com) |
| Against Medical Advice by James Patterson and Hal Friedman and Cory Friedman |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This true story of a young man who suffered over ten years of unexplained symptoms and medications that often made his condition worse was narrated well. Use of first person enhanced the impact of the story. By the end, I not only identified with the main character but began rethinking some of my earlier concepts about illness. |
| Marsha |
| The Associate by John Grisham |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Grisham is in top form with this novel about a brilliant young lawyer who is blackmailed into taking a job with a top firm where he is expected to lie, steal and take part in a scheme that could realistically send him to prison. It's fast paced and thrilling. |
| Sue |
| Sarah's Key by Tatiana de Rosnay |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is a must-read book for anyone interested in the Holocaust, history, or just wanting to read a touching story which teaches us about a little-remembered chapter in French history. |
| Gail |
| The Journal of Helene Berr by Helene Berr |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
It's a wonderful journal from the author displaying hope during her internment in a World War II concentration camp. |
| Gail |
| Just Breathe by Susan Wiggs |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is an interesting romance novel with several unexpected twists. |
| Leah Boyer |
| PerryMason Solves the Case ofthe Black-Eyed Blonde by Erle Stanley Gardner |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
He is a classic murder mystery writer. |
| Debbie (delphimo@yahoo.com) |
| Watchers of Time by Charles Todd |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
An Ian Rutledge mystery set in England in 1919 about the murder of village priest, Father James, which leads to uncovering secrets about the disappearance of Lady Virginia Sedgwich. Rutledge is very good at discovering the truth without all the modern-day detective tools. |
| Melissa Applin (mapplin@cyber-south.com) |
| Turning Tricks by Claire Thompson |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Well, I have many thoughts on this book. (I know... scary title!) I loved the theme and plot of the story. It was very comparable to the movie, Pretty Woman, but with interesting differences as well. Just when the story comes to its "happy ever after" ending, I feel like a totally different author took over and ruined it. In no way did I think that BDSM should have been added to the story. It just did not fit the rest of the story at all. |
| Madeline |
| Sarah's Key by Tatiana de Rosnay |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This novel was recommended by my local independent bookseller and I am so glad it was. By alternating two Parisian points of view, one in 1942, the other in 2002, the reader learns of the heartbreaking story of the Vel d'Hiv. A well-told, must-read novel. |
| Linda H. (linda604b@yahoo.com) |
| A Perfect Evil by Alex Kava |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Young boys are being abducted and murdered in a manner similar to a killer who had been executed several years ago. Now, FBI profiler Maggie O'Dell has been assigned to aid the local Sheriff Nick Morrelli. As she reviews the case, she feels that the executed killer did not commit all three of the murders and Maggie zeros in on one of the local priests. This notion is shot down by the sheriff as "priests do not commit murders." But as two more boys are abducted and found murdered and then the sheriff's nephew is abducted, a sense of urgency is felt by all. Who is the murderer --- is it the priest, the church janitor, or someone in the police department? Although not her newest novel, this was the first book written by Alex Kava that I have read. It won't be the last as this book kept me in suspense up to the end. |
| Cheryl S. |
| The Venetian Betrayal by Steve Berry |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Nobody writes historical fiction as well as Steve Berry. He blends past history with a present-day story in a way that just pulls you along. This particular book uses the history of Alexander the Great and weaves a story of intrigue and power that makes you keep coming back for more. I highly recommend any of his books if you enjoy good historical fiction. |
| Greg Esparza (Esparzagre3d@aol.com) |
| Cross Country by James Patterson |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Patterson seems to be at his best when he writes his own books and doesn't try to help other writers or co-writes. This is one of his best since ALONG CAME A SPIDER. I am also concerned that I no longer receive his newsletter. Thanks. |
| Linda H. (linda604b@yahoo.com) |
| The Reapers by John Connolly |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This book was not the mystery I thought it was going to be. It is the story of a young black man from the South who was rescued from an eminent jail term by a man who handled assassins. He becomes the "ultimate assassin". The book chronicles his growth through various deeds and the ultimate showdown with another assassin. |
| Linda H. (linda604b@yahoo.com) |
| Hot Mahogany by Stuart Woods |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Stone Barrington is involved with the theft of a priceless antique. His buddy, police detective Dino Bacchetti, is on hand to assist with wiretaps and surveillance while Stone romances three different women. It's an easily read book with little substance. |
| Julie |
| White Corridor by Christopher Fowler |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
An English murder mystery featuring two elderly, cranky police detectives: Arthur Bryant and John May. It is very entertaining. |
| Elizabeth V |
| Sacred by Dennis Lehane |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
All of Lehane's books are 5 stars. This is an older one, but it's great from page 1. It is part of a series, but it doesn't matter if you read them in order. I didn't, and they're just as good as his stand alones. The series is about two private detectives and the scrapes they get into. Every story is full of surprises, and nothing is as it seems. |
| leah boyer |
| The Case of the Half-Wakened Wife by Erle Stanley Gardner |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
There may be lots of new mystery writers these days, but Erle Stanley Gardner was one of the originals. |
| Ronna L |
| Hail to the Chef by Julie Hyzy |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I read the first two books in a new series that I really enjoyed -THE STATE OF THE ONION, and HAIL TO THE CHEF by Julie Hyzy. These were really well done books. The main character is a White House chef, soon to be head chef, who has a non-public knowledge boyfriend who is on the Secret Service Detail to protect the President. The president was non-specific and resembles no one in particular, nor is the figure specified as Republican or Democrat. I learned lots of interesting things about the inner workings of the White House chefs, family gatherings, holiday times, and reactions to threats to White House people. The chef is Olivia Paras, whose motto is "never let them see you sweat". She is a strong character of diminutive physical size but lots of common sense, with great powers of observation and instinct. Of course, there are also recipes involved, and murders and terrorists threats galore. She is a bit like Miss Marple and Jessica Fletcher, in that everything threatening or unlawful, seem to happen around her. But I loved her! |
| Lynn Clifford |
| Land of a Hundred Wonders by Lesley Kagen |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
The biggest "wonder" about this book is how the author, Lesley Kagen, has been able to turn a story depicting a grisly murder mystery into what I would consider a light, and at times funny, beach read. A quirky cast of small town misfits, led by Gibby, who is NQR (not quite right) after sustaining brain damage in an auto accident, set out to solve the crime. |
| ck |
| Astrid and Veronika by Linda Olsson |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Discussion groups are very lively when there is a difference of opinion on the merits of a book. In ASTRID AND VERONIKA the landscape is one of the "characters" and I found the cold, harsh Swedish background very depressing, particularly as winter was blasting us with wind and snow making cloudy days very bleak. During the discussion we all agreed the prose borders on poetic. We tried to understand Astrid whose life was tied to her home and village. Hearing an explanation about Astrid's bathing suit was a revelation. I cannot stress enough how book groups enlighten us when one member exposes something that no one else considered. Veronika also was an enigma better understood when we tore apart the relationships she had with her father, her very absent mother and the boyfriend. I might have read this book and forgotten it in a few days, had I not had a debate with others who were willing to argue points and defend opinions. |
| Ronna L |
| Hooked on Murder by Betty Hechtman |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
For any of the rest of you who enjoy the needle arts, HOOKED ON MURDER by Betty Hechtman is another new cozy series about a crocheting group that meets in a book store. Molly Pink is the Community Affairs Person for her book store and has begun a group for crochet lovers. Knowing nothing about crocheting herself, she tries to steer those who are in the know---and the competitors for leadership of the group. When one of those ladies is found dead in her home, the mystery begins. Lori was dropping off the crochet hooks that the dead woman had left in the store and finds herself the prime suspect in the murder case. It is fun for needlework lovers and books lovers alike. The mystery was compelling and kept me interested throughout. Looking forward to more in this series also!! |
| Ronna L |
| Jar City by Arnaldur Indridason and Bernard Scudder |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
JAR CITY by Arnaldur Indridason is the first book in a series about Reykjavik, Icelander, Inspector Erlendur. This was a Nordic Crime Novel Winner, and his next book won the Gold Dagger Award for SILENCE IN THE GRAVE. This book was so different and interesting that I just keep reading though the day, the night, meal times, and all other times until I finished the story. The geography was so very different from anything that I had read about, and the police procedural was spectacular to say the least! An old man is found dead in a flat with a cryptic note left by the killer. This sends Inspector Erlendur on a cold case that brings up memories from his own life. It also brings back a young lady who is his daughter whom he has not seen since she was two years old. It does not help that she is a drug addict and pregnant too. One involvement in this book that is really new to me, is that of Icelandic names. Apparently, every goes by one name only even in phone books. So the sex of the characters are only determined when they are given he/she pronouns. There is one character in the book who is never given a pronoun. I believe that this person will continue over into future books in this series. The forensic evidence is foremost in this book, and the atmosphere and characterization comes in a close second. The insight into the human persona is amazing and emotionally involving in the story line big time!! I already have the other two paperback books in this series and am awaiting the newest one to become a paperback also. |
| Ronna L |
| On the Slam and the Unkindest Cut by Honor Hartman |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
ON THE SLAM and THE UNKINDEST CUT by Honor Hartman are cute light cozies for lovers of the game of Bridge. Three single women neighbors are friends and bridge enthusiasts. The murders take place within bridge games or tournaments and clues are discovered within "gossip" during the play of the game. For the Bridge enthusiast, there are even a few hands of bridge bidding and play discussed that added fun to the story. The three main characters range in age from early 30's to mid 60's so all types of fun are involved within the outside story lines. The central character has a couple of cats that add to the story from time to time also. It is a fun and light read. Looking forward for more from this author, whose name is a pseudonym of some author from Texas. |
| Ronna L |
| Thistle and Twigg by Mary Saums |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
THISTLE ABND TWIGG by Mary Saums was probably the most interesting "style" of written mystery that I have read in some while. It starts out seeming like a Miss Marple type story, with two retired widow women in a small town in Alabama. But, about half way through the story we learn things about one of these women that throws fireworks into the story line, the relationship between these women, and the "character" of one of the women. If I say more about this I will spoil the fun for anyone reading this book for the first time. Phoebe Twigg's family has lived in her small town since before the time of the Indians. Jane Thistle has just moved in town after her military husband has recently died. Jane wants to enjoy the unspoiled outdoors and nature in its unblemished form. She was schooled in archeology and is also interested in exercise and yoga. Jane has a nice savings and bought a large home beside a nature preserve. Both her home, and the preserve, border on a local recluse's property. This property is rumored to contain gold and relics from the past. When a dead body is found on the old man's land, Jane and Phoebe take it upon themselves to solve the crime. And solve it they do---but they do not remain the little old ladies that we were lead to believe they were at the start of the book. This book is fun, humorous, surprising, and interesting as the mystery drives the story line in such a nice and interesting new way. |
| Ronna L |
| The Tale of the Hilltop Farm by Susan Wittig Albert |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
THE TALE OF HILLTOP FARM by Susan Wittig Albert, is a lyrical, well researched, magical book that mimics the idea of animals as having human characteristics mixed with their natural animal characteristics. She handled the "animal talk" by putting what the animals said in italics rather than the quotation marks she used for the humans. The time frame starts just after the real Beatrix Potter's fiancé dies and Potter bought her first farm in the Lake District of England. Potter's love for animals, plants, and the land runs throughout the story. And the mystery of who killed a local villager was done wonderfully. Of course the animals helped the humans throughout the story, without the humans knowing. Sometimes animals are smarter and sneakier that their human friends. A must read if you are a Potter Fan, enjoy a good cozy, enjoy animals, or are fans the 1900's in England countryside as fun location for a mystery! |
| Ronna L |
| Fruit of the Poisoned Tree by Joyce & Jim Lavene |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Peggy Lee is a botanist, professor and expert in poisonous plants, and organic plantings and pest removal. After her policeman husband was killed two years prior in a domestic dispute (the killer was not found), she followed forth with their dream to open a garden shop in Charlotte, North Carolina. With her Doctorate in botany, she also teaches classes at the local college. She lives in a huge historical house that is passed down through her husband's family to the eldest son in each generation. Therefore, she has rights to live there till she dies but it does not pass onto her son, but to her husband's brother's son who is the eldest of his generation. Paul, her son, became a policeman when his father was shot and "tries" to take care of his independent minded mother---the mystery solver of this series. She also has a Great Dane that was wandering the streets and was destined for the pound. He is a terrific pet, but not trained as yet. She also meets a vet through her dog, who becomes her new boyfriend thought he is 7 years her junior. Their relationship is fun also. Peggy begins her sleuthing when a man is found dead in her new fall store display. Poisons come into all of these stories. There is also an unknown Internet chess playing "friend/stalker" who seems to know who Peggy is and what she is doing, but also enjoys playing chess online with her. Is he dangerous, an unknown helper, or what? He goes by the internet name of Nightflyer to her Nightrose, and says he is with the FBI, but that is all he will tell Peggy about himself. Interestingly, this mystery carries over into all of the series. The characters descriptions and mysteries are terrific. The books are written excellently, and the chapters are all headed with a paragraph about different plants, trees, or flowers. There is a lot to learn about botany in these books while solving good mysteries. |
| Ronna L |
| Cruel Intent by J. A. Jance |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
J. A. Jance seems to improve with ever mystery that she writes. In CRUEL INTENT, there are many different dimensions that add to the intensity and interest of this story. One of my favorite heroines, Ali Reynolds, finds herself involved with another murder just as she is trying to finish renovating a house for a TV shoot, so that family and friends can all come for Thanksgiving dinner. Even though her transplanted venerable English Butler, Mr. Brooks, seems to have everything and more well in hand, he cannot "fix" the fact that Ali's contractor's wife has just been murdered. Of course, the contractor is soon taken into custody as a suspect. This sends Ali down many paths with computer hacking, a different kind of a computer meeting site, and number of unusual children, a just engaged son, and a Taser-tooting Mom. The mystery careens forward with more and more intensity that keeps the reader engaged in the pursuit of a serial killer. What is especially thrilling is that we also follow the thoughts and actions of the killer while we see him leave clues that the detectives may or may not be finding in time to prevent another murder. Ali is a completely complex character that I would love to have for a friend also! A great series that does not fail to get better and better with each added book! |
| Holly |
| The Book of Unholy Mischief by Elle Newmark |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I first viewed this title on a bookreporter.com newsletter. So glad I paid attention! If you enjoyed Dan Brown thriller, The Da Vinci Code, then you're in for a great read. Written from the point of view of a kitchen apprentice in a Venice palace. Intrigue abounds within the kitchen as well as the politics of the ruling doge. Add the seduction of fine food, a beautiful convent girl, and an ancient book that holds the secret to power. This first book from a new author is delightful. Be sure to visit her website. I did, and now I'm ready to travel to Venice. |
| Mary in HB (mljacobsinhb@msn.com) |
| Weddings from Hell by Maggie Shayne, Jeaniene Frost., Terri Garey |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I swore I wouldn't read any more anthologies since I am usually disappointed with a couple of the stories in each one, but this one had strong, stand-alone novellas. I don't think anyone will be disappointed with anything here. I especially enjoyed Terri Garey's story about Nicki. |
| Mary in HB (mljacobsinhb@msn.com) |
| Casting Spells by Barbara Bretton |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This turned out to be a very nice romantic paranormal. I always have reservations when a romance writer tries to do paranormal, but I was pleasantly surprised. This had the right mix of humor and romance. |
| Ronna L |
| Dog on It: A Chet and Bernie Mystery by Spncer Quinn |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
There are many duos in the mystery world, but when Chet "lifted his leg" and marked his place in my heart, I knew that the duo of Chet-a mutt-- and his detective partner, Bernie-an ex cop-were destined to be my new favorite pair. Chet tells their story of searching for a missing teenager who seems like a model child; maybe even including the bag of grass (not grass cuttings from her yard) that Chet sniffs out under her bedside table. Her parents hire Bernie and then fire Bernie---but the duo never quits until they search and seek to their own satisfaction. Bernie feels the pains of child loss because he has to share his son, Charlie, with the ex wife from 'society hell'. What our duo discovers surprises everyone but Chet. The humor is worth the read alone. Add a great mystery to a great man/dog pairing and there is a new winning team for mystery fans. |
| Marsha |
| Still Alice by Lisa Genova |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is an engrossing fictional tale of a Harvard Professor's descent into early-onset Alzheimer's. You will experience a gamut of emotions in her depiction of this moving and inspiring story. |
| Sheila Reinhard Augustine |
| Cornelia and the Audacious Escapades of the S by Lesley M.M. Blume |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is the story of lonely, 11-year-old Cornelia, who finds it hard to make friends. She loves dictionaries, and hides behind her large vocabulary. She has an impossible relationship with her famous pianist mother, who is never home. As Cornelia grows lonelier and lonelier; she meets her new next-door neighbor who happens to be Virginia Somerset, one of the four famous Somerset sisters who traveled the world together. The book is further made charming, with the mischievous French bulldog. It is a book for pre-teens to teens, but even adults will enjoy it. |
| Michelle Miller (miller4plusmore@bellsouth.net) |
| The Host by Stephenie Meyer |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I read TWILIGHT a few months back and loved it, so I was anxious to see what her first adult novel would be like. My dad gave it to me for Christmas. I have to say that it is a very good book. Interesting subject matter and very thought provoking about what it means to be human. I think Meyer is a great writer for our time. |
| Kasi Kirby |
| Sudden Threat by A. J. Tata |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Wow. What a super ride. Move over Tom Clancy, the new kid on the block has written a hot new book that is a page turner that will keep you reading all night long. It has more action, twists, turns, and sit on the edge of your seat thrills than your favorite action/suspense movie ever thought of having. It starts with "The one time my country asks for a head on a platter" Matt Garrett says to himself and it only gets better from that point on. From Pakistan, to China, to Japan, and to Manila, the action heats up as Matt (CIA) and his Brother Zack (army not CIA), fight the bad guys. Then throw in the fact that the "Rolling Stones" from inside the beltway in Washington D.C. are secretly creating most of the problems 1/2 a world a way, in their quest for fame, greed and glory. This book gives you a scenario of what is happening today in the real world. Scary, isn't it? Tata gives you heroes that are on the cutting edge but have the compassion and honor of those with" boots on the ground" who are doing battle not only with the foreign baddies but also fighting with the master manipulation of Beltway bigwigs in D.C. With all the action, thrills and conspiracy you will not want to put down this book till you have finished it. Move over old-timers (Tom Clancy, Vince Flynn, Brad Thor, Brad Metzler, James Rollins) the new kid on the block is coming up fast and this book is fantastic. |
| Dave |
| On the Grind by Stephen J. Cannell |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Quick read, but not one of Cannell's best Shane Scully stories. Perhaps, it was too improbable to grab me. |
| Sue, Saratoga |
| Unaccustomed Earth by Jhumpa Lahiri |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
The stories are riveting, though sometimes dark. I've loved her other books so was excited to read these short stories. The Bengali culture is one I'm not very familiar with and enjoy learning new things about their culture. |
| Dan |
| Street Gang: The Complete History of Sesame Street by Michael Davis |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I enjoyed STREET GANG. This book takes you back to how Sesame Street was conceived, who the people were that created it, and how it became so successful. Michael Davis delves into how the characters developed over time and why Elmo almost didn't make the cut. (My wife is nuts over Elmo, and our entertainment center is practically a shrine to the little red guy). If you have no interest in the cast and crew biographies, then you shouldn't read this book. If you want to learn about the struggles to put on this television program, I say read it. |
| Pam |
| The Street of a Thousand Blossoms by Gail Tsukiyama |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This novel is the story of two brothers who survive WWII. They are traditional Japanese men living in a time of great change. The story goes from 1941 through 1966 with brothers Hiroshi who is a sumo wrestler and Kenji, a Noh mask carver. It's a great story of survival, growth and love during a crucial historic time. It is great reading. |
| janet hoyt (janet2@cfl.rr.com) |
| Bitsy's Bait and BBQ by Pamela Morsi |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This book is a fun read. Though you can probably figure out how it will end half way through the book, it still a good story of women and how love for their children and each other can take their lives in directions they hadn't planned on. |
| Janice Hoaglin (jhoaglin@sbcglobal.net) |
| The Reincarnationist by M.J. Rose |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
After almost dying from a blast in Rome, Josh Ryder begins experiencing flashbacks that take him back to ancient Rome around 4th Century A.D. He flashes into a life as a Pagan Priest, in love with a Vestal Virgin. As the plot unfolds, Josh meets people in his present life with whom he believes he has had connections in past lives. Josh begins working for the Phoenix Institute, where they do past-life regressions with children. His career as a photo-journalist takes him back to Rome, and he becomes entangled in a desperate search for the Memory Stones, which may help solve the puzzles of reincarnation. This is fast paced. At times I found the writing to be very flat, at other times it was quite engaging, and an interesting story. |
| Janice Hoaglin (jhoaglin@sbcglobal.net) |
| Hard Truth by Nevada Barr |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I really like this series. Anna Pigeon is a very strong woman. Anna works as a park ranger, and each new book in this series takes her to a different national park. In this one she is in Rocky Mountain National Park and shortly after arriving begins searching first for some missing children, and then trying to solve the mystery of their abduction. This requires an investigation into a polygamous cult, and into possible serial murders. In this book Anna faces a fierce struggle to save both her and several children. These books are all well written, and often give great descriptions of the parks and the surrounding terrain, though less so in this particular book. |
| Vickie |
| The Associate by John Grisham |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
One of the best Grisham legal thrillers in a decade! The author nails the frustration of a new lawyer who is trying to obey the laws, keep his integrity and work with blackmailers who know a dirty secret that can ruin him. Classic Grisham, at last! |
| Mary in HB (mljacobsinhb@msn.com) |
| Witch Blood: Elemental Witches, Book 2 by Anya Bast |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Although this is the second book in the series, it could stand alone. I like the attitude of Isabelle and the interplay between her and Thomas who we met in the first book. If you like hot, this book is for you. |
| Renee |
| Dog on It: A Chet and Bernie Mystery by Spencer Quinn |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I can't resist a debut author with a new series. This one is a detective duo: man and his best friend. It is written from the perspective of the dog. Creative, fun, funny, and a good tail on top of it (I couldn't resist). |
| Eileen Quinn Knight |
| Shelter Me by Juliette Fay |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is a most moving story about a young mother and her two children. She loses her husband and has to deal with death and grief while raising the children. She is focused on the job of raising the girls when people surround her with goodness. So although she wanted to do this by herself people constantly give of themselves to assist her in her grief. It's a great story! |
| Bcteagirl |
| Clara Callan by Richard B. Wright |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This book is based around the life of Clara, and the people she interacts with. It is set in the 1930's in a small town in Ontario, and includes letters between her and her sister (who moved to NYC), diary entries, and eventually letters between herself and others she has met along the way. Clara, an unmarried schoolteacher who lives alone, is a very real character. She enjoys books, and wonders about the existence of God. The short letters/journals make it easy to read, it flows very smoothly. This is a wonderful book. |
| Coral Harrison |
| Waiting to Surface by Emily Listfield |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I am sure this book will be a hit. Sarah and Todd separated but both loved their daughter, Eliza. He was an artist and sculptor and she worked for a magazine. He flew to Florida, went swimming in the ocean and was never seen afterward. This about her first year and how she coped. |
| sal williams |
| The Things They Carried by Tim O'Brien |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I read this when it first came out and cried over many passages that seized my heart and mind and held them tightly. You, too, will suffer over these beautifully-written, compelling vignettes of war-life in Vietnam. An exceptional example of non-fiction novel writing, "Things" will carry you places you do not wish to go but you will return enriched. By all means, read this book. Do not skip the chapter entitled "How to Tell A True War Story"- it will rattle your cage for days! |
| Kathy McDaniel |
| Mind Hunters by John Douglas and Mark Olshaker |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I am one of those people who are fascinated by serial killers. Douglas is too, however, he works at figuring them out and finding them before they kill more. He calls that process profiling. His book on detection techniques is fascinating. his reminiscences of serial murderers he has had a part in apprehending or studying is riveting reading. It's everything you ever thought you might want to know and more. |
| Renee |
| The Shack by William P. Young |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Not like anything else you've read. This book is becoming a movement. |
| Sandra S |
| Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I totally enjoyed this book |
| Linda B |
| Death at Devil's Bridge by Robin Paige |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is the 4th book in this mystery series and I enjoyed it just as much as the earlier ones. This mystery revolves around a motorcar and hot air balloon exhibition, with appearances by Charles Rolls, and Henry Royce. |
| Linda B |
| 84, Charing Cross Road by Helene Hanff |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
What a delightful book. I acquired it after watching the movie of the same name. This short (less than 100 pages) book tells the story of a friendship that develops between an American writer and a dealer of used books in London. It is told through their 20 years of exchanging letters. |
| Gina |
| Fudge Cupcake Murder by Joanne Fluke |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
It was enjoyable yet predictable. I can always tell the killer in this series of books but they are really fun to read. |
| Linda B |
| The Duchess of Bloomsbury Street by Helene Hanff |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Such a wonderful little book! After the success of 84, CHARING CROSS ROAD, Helene Hanff finally has the finances to fulfill a life-long dream to visit London. This book in diary form tells of her experiences. I laughed, and cried, and read passages over again for the sheer joy of the writing. It is highly recommended. |
| Robin Coker (hillcoker@yahoo.com) |
| Final Jeopardy by Linda Fairstein |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is the first book I've read by Fairstein and I'm only halfway thru it and I love it. I'm always so happy when I find a new author I like. I have ordered her other books and will get her new one soon. |
| Pattie Berryhill (pattiberr@aol.com) |
| John Lennon: The Life by Philip Norman |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I relived my Beatlemania days! |
| Len Nowak |
| The Blue Zone by Andrew Gross |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I thought this was an intriguing thriller that really kept you guessing. I thought I had figured out who was good and who was bad, but someway Mr. Gross had me fooled. For someone looking for a fast read, especially on vacation, this is a perfect book. It kept me going and the suspense never let up until the very end. |
| Natalie Shipman |
| A Good Woman by Danielle Steel |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is a very good historical novel which Danielle Steele is known for. |
| Diane Dubay (monysmom@comcast.net) |
| Devil's Brood by Sharon Kay Penman |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Sharon Penman really makes history come alive in her novels. I think she is probably one of the best historical fiction writers around. Henry II and Eleanor of Aquitaine return in the third book of the series, trying to keep their sons Hal, Richard, Geoffrey and John from destroying their family, each other and their empire in the process! |
| Cynthia |
| The Virgin Queen's Daughter by Ella March Chase |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is wonderful historical fiction that is truly hypothesizing. What would happen if Queen Elizabeth "The Virgin Queen" had had a child - and that child had lived adopted by another family never knowing the truth of her birth until she goes to serve the queen as one of her ladies in waiting? It has love, history, and royalty...3 of my favorite subjects. I highly recommend. |
| RitaB |
| Very Valentine by Adriana Trigiani |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I loved this book! It is charming, comfortable, cozy, everything Trigiani. I love this "typical" New York Italian family and I loved the background of the shoe making industry. I just wanted it to go on and on. |
| Steve IV |
| The Book of Fate by Brad Meltzer |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I've read all of Brads books but was worried I wouldn't like this one (just because of the title). It turned out to be just as good if not better! If you haven't read this book, give it a try, it won't let you down! |
| Alice F |
| What I Saw and How I Lied by Judy Blundell |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is a hauntingly beautiful book. The protagonist's voice is pitch perfect. The trouble you feel coming provides a slightly noir touch and that tasty combination of anticipation and angst that make adolescence such a fertile time for the psyche. |
| Debbie (delphimo@yahoo.com) |
| The Last Coyote by Michael Connelly |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is a Harry Bosch mystery in which Harry is under suspension for hitting his boss. While awaiting his suspension to end, Harry starts investigating the open file of Marjorie Lowe, a prostitute murdered in 1961, and also Harry's mother. The search scans Florida and California, with investigating high political figures and lowly pimps. Each time you think the murderer has been found, something happens. This is full of surprises. |
| Debbie (deble_2000@yahoo.com) |
| True Colors by Kristin Hannah |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
One of my very favorite authors and she never fails to deliver a great read. Three very different sisters, a murder, prison, this book will keep you turning the pages. |
| marion miller (lamamil@aol.com) |
| Tallgrass by Sandra Dallas |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This is about a town and its relationship to a Japanese Internment camp during WWII. It holds your interest but I think there are better books written about this subject. I think the author thought she was another Harper Lee. |
| Mary in HB (mljacobsinhb@msn.com) |
| Far from You by Lisa Schroeder |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I thought this book was excellent. Amazing how the author could put across so much with so few words. I really enjoyed her first book, I HEART YOU, YOU HAUNT ME. And this one was even better! |
| Debbie (delphimo@yahoo.com) |
| Blood Work by Michael Connelly |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is one of Connelly's earlier works about the body donor system and serial killers. This is the story of a retired FBI agent recovering from a heart transplant. The story revolves around the heart donor's sister asking Terrell McCaleb (the recipient of the heart) to find her sister's killer. The trail leads to many interesting discoveries, and as usual, Connelly tells a great story. |
| Margie Bunting |
| A Rule Against Murder by Louise Penny |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Penny continues to bring us literary mysteries that are a cut above most. This is her fourth and probably her best to date. Chief Inspector Armand Gamache and all of the supporting characters are fascinating and ultimately satisfying. |
| Ozarks Reader |
| The Leisure Seekers by Michael Zadoorian |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This was a real fun book, probably not for the younger set, but a great treat for older folks (like me). The premise actually borders on the ridiculous but as the story unfolds you want to cheer for Ella and John as they travel cross country on Route 66 in their camper. |
| Shannon Moon Leonetti |
| A Good Woman by Danielle Steele |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I hadn't read one of Danielle Steele's books in years. I don't even know what made me pick this one up. It was a winner. Set in WWI, it is a well written, plain, old fashioned good novel. |
| Darbys_Closet |
| Kiss by Ted Dekker and Erin Healy |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A great read!! I loved this book and can't wait for the follow up! |
| Jeannie |
| Gone For Good by Harlon Coben |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Too much going on and not sure what the subject of the book is. It is supposed to be about the brother who supposedly killed his girlfriend, but the book has me now in a paralyzed pimp's bedroom, searching for info on his own girlfriend. Not sure of the connection to his brother? |
| Jeannie |
| Promise Me by Harlon Coben |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
It's an excellent book. Teenage daughter of Myron's friend is now missing after Myron dropped her off. Love the interaction with his friend Win, his intensity in finding the girl and not giving up, even though his friendship with the girl's mother is on the line. My hero!!! |
| Debra |
| On the Shoulders of Giants: My Journey Through th by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Raymond Obstfeld |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is a great introduction to the Harlem Renaissance, as Kareem discusses the literary, jazz, and basketball greats that influenced the country and his own life. |
| Fran |
| Forgive Me by Amanda Eyre Ward |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
|
I didn't find this book as good as some of her other novels. For some reason, it didn't seem to hold my attention. |
| F Tessa Bartels |
| Death by Chick Lit by Lynn Harris |
| Rating: 1 Stars |
|
Zero stars! I picked this up while on vacation. I like to read "light" mysteries when I'm relaxing, but this was just *terrible*! No plot to speak of, stilted dialogue. Just a waste of time. |
| Roberta Harwell |
| The Bridesmaid and the Billionaire by Shirley Jump |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This will make the girl next door believe anything is possible. It's not a very long book, but is well written. There is depth to the characters and challenges along the way. I would recommend this book to any one in need of a little romance. |
| Cheri Oggy (cheri.oggy@gmail.com) |
| Wicked Game by Lisa Jackson and Nancy Bush |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This book kept you guessing throughout. Apparently, there are some books that led up to this story and some more coming soon! The characters jump out at you and make you want to stay up all night reading, which I did! All in all, the two sisters did a fantastic job in writing this book. |
| Richard Bartels |
| Out of America by Keith B Richburg |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is a controversial look at the political / social state of African nations by an African American. Highly recommended. |
| Margie (sucansky@msn.com) |
| A Darker Domain by Val McDermid |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
McDermid moves between the present and 1983 in this kidnapping and disappearance mystery. |
| Margie (sucansky@msn.com) |
| The Piano Teacher by Janice Y. K. Lee |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
At first I didn't know how the author was going to tie together the periods 1941 and 1953 in Hong Kong. However, one character ties them together and reveals life in Hong Kong during WWII. |
| Hedi (hedihopwood@aol.com) |
| The River of Doubt by Candice Millard |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is another true story about Theodore Roosevelt. After the losing the election, he decided to try and map out an uncharted (officially named Rio Roosevelt/Rio Teodoro) river in the Amazon. They were unprepared for the very unpleasant conditions they would encounter in this vast jungle rain forest. |
| margie (sucansky@msn.com) |
| When Will There Be Good News? by Kate Atkinson |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Jackson Brodie once again brings many events together to solve a mystery. |
| Bonnie Capuano |
| Dark of Knight by Suzanne Brockmann |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I love all of Suzanne's books. This is a continuation of The Troubleshooters Inc.series. This time James Nash is nearly killed so they had to fake his death and hunt out the killer. This is a very good book! |
| F Tessa Bartels |
| Cover Her Face by P. D. James |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I had read this before but came across it on the shelves of our vacation cottage. It's well written (but "veddy British" --- reminiscent of Agatha Christie). I like her work, and her mysteries have never disappointed. |
| Lori Barnes (photoquest@bellsouth.net) |
| Straight from the Horse's Heart by R.T. Fitch |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
These stories are very touching, heartfelt and heart gripping. Some of the best times I experienced growing up were with my best friend, Gypsie, who taught me so much about myself and about love and life. I was so touched when I read of the author's experience in communication with these horses because it is real, and the things he learned were astonishing. R. T. and his wife Terry have set out to spread the word and tell people the stories of abuse and slaughter of these beautiful and intelligent creatures in hopes that this treatment will cease. They have fostered abused horses and saved many from slaughter, and their work continues. I did not know of the slaughtering until I read this book, and I warn you even the coldest of hearts will grow weak from some of these stories. But, they must be read his stories must be told . Precious Ethan, and the others of unique personalities and what they brought to be R. T. and Terry's family are simply touching. This is a wonderfully written book. I was engaged from the beginning, however, I admit I could've finished sooner had I not put it down out of reflection and being moved by what I read. I am in awe of their work and envy what they are doing because I know they have had to feel much pain for the good they are doing. These are truly special people and I encourage everyone to please tell others about them. Even if I had never been so lucky to have been graced in my life by such a beautiful soul as I was, I would've come away from this book just as moved and felt the same compassion. This book was not written for their personal gain but to help and assist the horses. The proceeds are donated to Habitat for Horses an Equine Protective Organization. This is such a wonderful thing they are doing and am very happy to have gotten a chance to see inside their world. If you would like to View their website, got ot www.habitatforhorses.org I feel much love in my heart for Ethan and their family. I feel I know them from this book. |
| T. Thomas |
| Howl's Moving Castle by Diane Wynne Jones |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I picked this up after reading about it in Word of Mouth. It is a very cute book and I thoroughly enjoyed it. |
| Margi |
| Down River by John Hart |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Hart fleshes out his characters, flaws and all, while still writing a good background mystery. I thought I had it figured out three-quarters of the way through, but I was wrong. I liked his first book, KING OF LIES, as well. |
| F Tessa Bartels |
| The Double by Jose Saramago |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
4.5 stars. A history teacher watches a video in which a bit player bears a striking resemblance to himself. He's obsessed with finding his double, and upsets the order of the universe when he does. The novel asks, and tries to answer, "Who are we, really?" Saramago's style is difficult...a sentence may take a whole page, a paragraph several pages. Still, he's worth the effort. |
| Kathy Vallee |
| Pushing Up Daisies by Rosemary Harris |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is the number one book in the new series by Carolyn Hart A Dirty Business Mystery. A lady named Paula Holliday leaves her mega executive job to move to the suburbs to start a gardening business. On her first day on the job, she finds the body of a baby. The police want to just leave it alone. But Paula just can not do it so she tries to solve the case. |
| leola |
| The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I will never ever forget Lily, August, May and June, the Boatwright sisters. This pink house is filled with compassion and empathy. Even April, the sister who is no longer alive made an impact on me. I love the idea of Rosaleen becoming "July" an adopted calendar sister. I also will never look at bees in an ordinary way again. All that is ordinary becomes extraordinary in this novel. |
| ruth |
| Isabel's Daughter by Judith R. Hendricks |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Emotional and beautiful novel set in Santa Fe with wonderful and vivid descriptions of the locale. |
| pearl |
| A Thread of Grace by Mary Doria Russell |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
It's excellent historical fiction which is compelling and well written. |
| Hedi (hedihopwood@aol.com) |
| Halsey's Typhoon by Robert Drury and Tom Clavin |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is a true story of a huge typhoon that hit the Pacific Fleet during World War II. Back in the day, there was no formal weather forecasting and the fleet was unprepared for this storm, it is also a great story of a PT captain who defied orders to rescue seaman who were drifting in the water. This is as good as any action/thriller novel can get and it is a tribute to the courage to the ordinary man. |
| Christy H. |
| Never Been Witched by Annette Blair |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
In this conclusion of Ms. Blair's Triplet Witch Trilogy, she ended with one of her finest yet. I've been looking forward to reading Destiny and Morgan's story for months now and I wasn't disappointed. From the first page I was hooked and had to read the whole book in one sitting. Full of humor and romance, this was one of my most favorite storylines. I can only hope that there is an installment for Reggie in the future and that the triplets will return. |
| Linda K. (writermom6@yahoo.com) |
| The Condition by Jennifer Haigh |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
It was hard not to give this book five stars. It's very close. Ostensibly, this book is about the medical condition of one of the characters, but in reality it's about all of the characters and their own "conditions." Character development was excellent in this book. The plot moved quickly and came together nicely at the end. My failure to give this book five stars rather than four is probably part of my personal bias, because I disliked one of the characters. This was not the author's fault, though. She built strong personalities for each one and was consistent throughout. |
| Susan Myers |
| Firefly Lane by Kristen Hannah |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A great story about a friendship between two women that lasts a lifetime. Through ups and downs, differences in life styles, and many years of being there (or not) for each other, this special friendship endures. |
| Bill |
| The Associate by John Grisham |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
THE ASSOCIATE is more reminiscent of Grisham's first three or four books --- a young, eager law school grad gets caught up in a law firm mess and tries to find a lawful way out. The story moves right along, leaving one to wonder why anyone would want to become an associate in the world's largest law firm. The plot loses steam at the end, but it is still a pretty good read. |
| Christy H. |
| A Veiled Deception by Annette Blair |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I'm a big fan of Ms. Blair's Accidental and Triplet Witch series --- so much so, that I pre-ordered the first book in this new series several months ago. My anticipation was not in vain. The Vintage Magic series starts out with a fun, if a little bit darker (a murder to be solved), fast-paced read that is full of ghosts, romance, suspense and humor. I instantly liked the character of Maddie and I'm hoping for more of her in the next installments. As an avid "collector" of vintage items myself, I found this to be a unique and fascinating storyline. |
| Christy H. |
| Montana Mistletoe by Lena Nelson Dooley, et al |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This was a delightful holiday read with a collection of novellas from authors that were both favorites and first time reads. Set in the town of Mistletoe, Montana, four friends find love and romance in these enjoyable interwoven stories. I recommend for any time of the year! |
| Kellie (acountkel@bellsouth.net) |
| Whiteout by Ken Follet |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This was a suspenseful, edge of your seat kind of read. I loved it. Toni Gallo is the head of security at a biochemical lab in Scotland called the Kremlin. When she discovers 2 doses of an experimental drug missing, she has no idea that this is a prelude to an even more dangerous plot to rob the company. Stanley Oxenford, the owner, is Toni's boss. They have a great working relationship and she is interested in more. Christmas Eve brings many surprises including a blizzard that makes the plot even more dangerous. The reviews on this were mixed, leaning towards not so good. I am wondering if it's because it's different from the other books Follet has written --- so different that fans were not expecting what they got. This was the first book by Follet I have read and I loved it. I will definitely try another. |
| Jill |
| The Zookeeper's Wife by Diane Ackerman |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Enjoyable, well-written story of a Polish zoo and how the wife survived and endured as the Germans bombed and invaded during World War ll. Based on the authors research, it includes some original photos. A very good read! |
| Christy H. |
| A Face at the Window by Sarah Graves |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This 12th book in Home Repair Is Homicide Mysteries series is a real nail biter! I've been a big fan of Ms. Graves since the beginning, with Jacobia "Jake" and her adventures in Eastport, Maine. Although I was anticipating another entertaining mystery, I wasn't quite prepared to be so thoroughly sucked in from the very beginning with this suspenseful thriller. A fast-paced read that has left me eagerly awaiting the 13th episode! |
| Christy H. |
| Only Pleasure by Lora Leigh |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I'm a big fan of Ms. Leigh's and her Bound Hearts series; having read the first 9 books and enjoying them all, I was eagerly awaiting to read ONLY PLEASURE, since it picks up where WICKED PLEASURE left off. This time it is twin brother, Chase Falladay's story. A suspenseful storyline and eroticism at its hottest! A great read for a cold winter's night. I'm looking forward to the next installment and reading Khalid's story. |
| Kristie |
| The Zookeeper's Wife by Diane Ackerman |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Very interesting nonfiction about the Warsaw Zoo during World War II. Read quickly and the notes in the back were interesting as well. |
| Kristie |
| The Trouble With Angels by Debbie Macomber |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is the second in the series about three angels named Shirley, Goodness and Mercy. They answer human prayer requests in ways that are touching and laugh-out-loud funny. They are assigned new requests this Christmas but can Los Angeles handle this "angelic" trio? |
| Sharon C. |
| Edgewise by Graham Masterton |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Lily Blake is desperate to find her kidnapped children after she was almost burned alive by intruders in her home. After waiting several weeks for the FBI agents to find her children, Lily decides to find her children using a Native American spirit called the Wendigo, which is part animal, part human. However, the spirit isn't what she expected and her life becomes a terrifying ordeal even after she finds her children. An excellent, terrifying ride! |
| Sharon C. |
| Capitol Reflections by Jonathan Javitt |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
What's killing people across America? Dr. Gwen Maulder wants to find out after her best friend has a seizure in the courtroom right before trying a case. It's an adventure that takes you from the FDA, to Hawaii, to the political board rooms. The characters are very well thought out and draw you into their lives. This terrifying storyline could be the front page news. Excellent read! |
| Kristie |
| Changing Habits by Debbie Macomber |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is the first book I read by this particular author. I loved it. It's about four different nuns (yes, nuns) and their lives in (and out) of the convents. The characters were so realistic and three-dimensional. Great storyline! |
| Kristie |
| Shirley, Goodness & Mercy by Debbie Macomber |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This series is about three angels named Shirley, Goodness and Mercy. They answer human prayer requests in ways that are touching and laugh-out-loud funny. This time it takes all three angels to help one man and his family heal from years of pain, loneliness and tragedy. |
| Kristie |
| Touched by Angels by Debbie Macomber |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This book is third in the series about three angels named Shirley, Goodness and Mercy. They answer human prayer requests in ways that are touching and laugh-out-loud funny. Can the Big Apple survive this "angelic" trio? |
| Kristie |
| Mrs. Miracle by Debbie Macomber |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Cute, light, funny, inspirational and romantic. Just what I needed to lift my spirits. |
| Kristie |
| This Side of Heaven by Karen Kingsbury |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Nice story but slightly predictable. Not her best work. |
| Kristie |
| Dewey by VIcki Myron |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Nice nonfiction book about the library cat of Spencer, Iowa. Keep the Kleenex handy, but there are also lots of laughs. |
| Judy O. (joswood@msn.com) |
| Eden Palms Murder by Dorothy Francis |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Singler/Songwriter Bailey Green flies to Key West, FL to work for her benefactor, Francine Shipton. When she arrives at the woman's estate, she finds that Francine has just been murdered! Francine's son, Zack, and Bailey band together to try to solve this murder. The story is exciting and compelling with a very surprise ending. Lots of flavor of the Key West. |
| Carmen |
| Nights in Rodanthe by Nicholas Sparks |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
After her husband jilts her for another, Adrienne Willis goes to watch a friend's bed and breakfast in Rodanthe. Paul Flanner is a burnt-out doctor, divorced from his wife, estranged from his grown son and looking for some sort of fulfillment in his life. He goes to the inn before embarking on a new life. A terrible storm is brewing and the two are forced to ride it out. A beautiful story with shades of BRIDGES OF MADISON COUNTY. |
| Carmen |
| The Gates of the Alamo by Stephen Harrigan |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
An epic novel, rich in history about the days before and during the Alamo siege. The story follows the lives of three people, Edmond McGowan, a naturalist searching to catalog all the botanical beauties of Texas, Mary Mott, a widowed innkeeper, trying to survive and make a life for her and her son, and Terell Mott, her sixteen-year-old son on his journey to become a man and a soldier. It's full of rowdy characters like Davy Crockett, Jim Bowie, and many more. |
| Carmen |
| The Historian by Elizabeth Kostova |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A historian's search for Dracula from monasteries to dusty libraries, across Europe. Wonderfully descriptive and well told. |
| Kristie |
| A Seson of Angels by Debbie Macomber |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is the first in the series about three angels named Shirley, Goodness and Mercy. They answer human prayer requests in ways that are touching and laugh-out-loud funny. |
| Sandra F. |
| Murder Crops Up by Lora Roberts |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
An ok mystery with a gardening slant. A fairly good example of this genre. |
| Louise Pledge (LouBabe@juno.com) |
| If She Should Die by Carlene Thompson |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I have had a couple of Carlene's books for awhile now but haven't taken time to read them, figuring since her name wasn't very prominent in suspense fiction, they probably weren't the best. Now I am avidly looking for more of her books. I really enjoyed this one and would find myself getting up in the middle of the night to read (since I was very pushed for time, otherwise). One girl's strange disappearance in the past suddenly causes a whole sequence of similar happenings to occur. You may have several "suspects" in mind before the real one is revealed. Oh, and another thing --- there is no sex (except referrals to affairs). I don't even recall bad language. Very impressive in today's world! |
| Louise Pledge (LouBabe@juno.com) |
| Special Assignment: Baby by Debra Webb |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This one caught my eye because of the word "baby" in the title and a picture of a toddler boy on the cover. I'm a sucker for books with babies/children in the stories. However, I had a hard time getting into this one and finally gave up. There's a cast of characters in the beginning pages which I found very necessary, as I was constantly getting them confused. Maybe it's because I've been so busy and tired, lately, but I couldn't keep everyone straight. I have a self-imposed rule that if I have trouble with a book, I give it a fair chance before quitting (100 pages), and I have decided to put this one down and start something else. I know it sometimes takes longer than that for a storyline to really develop and get intriguing but I have so many other books that need to be read... I guess I'm not that patient right now. |
| Dorothy |
| The Associate by John Grisham |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Grisham's latest book is a real page turner, and is just as good as THE FIRM. I almost gave up on him after partially reading PLAYING FOR PIZZA. This was John Grisham at this best. A young, top-of-the-class lawyer is being blackmailed for something he didn't do while in college. Will he do what he is asked or what he knows he should do? Read on. |
| L. Hann |
| Hide and Seek by James Patterson |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A real page turner. You will be questioning everything until the end. Great mystery! |
| Marie |
| Devil's Brood by Sharon Penman |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I'm halfway through it, and it is as enjoyable as the last two installments in this trilogy were. The phrase "Devil's Brood" refers to Henry and Eleanor's children: the young King Hal, Richard the Lionheart, Geoffrey, and a few daughters. There are rebellions of the young King Hal against his father Henry II, and poor Eleanor gets caught in the middle and is never forgiven by her husband. She is held prisoner, with very little hope for escape. The book is well written, maybe not as fabulous a story as the others, but I still loved the book. |
| Marie |
| The Royal Road to Fotheringay by Jean Plaidy |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is the story of Mary Stuart, Queen of Scots as she is brought up in the French Courts because she is betrothed to young Francois. (As an infant she was made Queen of Scotland when her father, James V, died.) It then goes on to her travels to Scotland and her second and third marriage, which were both disastrous and were not recommended to her. To use a word used in the book and which comes to mind often when thinking of Mary's decisions in her life, "Folly". I truly enjoyed this version of Mary as Plaidy interprets her. I had begun my British History passion with Henry VIII, and then Elizabeth I, so I have had Elizabeth's biased view of Mary till now. Through this book, I cannot but help to feel so much more empathy for her although the decisions she makes in her love life and consequently politically are utterly disastrous and you just want to yell at her. Poor thing was misguided from the get-go. The only good thing that happens is that she and Darnley have a healthy son. The bad thing is that she barely got to see her child as she was on the run ever after and then a prisoner. That son becomes James VI of Scotland, and James I of England. I wonder if Mary was simply more in tune to her beauty and cared more for the finer things in life and not brought up to think politically. Since this work is fiction I cannot say for sure. The book ends as she is abdicating Scotland, and now I have begun THE CAPTIVE QUEEN OF SCOTS. It picks up directly where THE ROYAL ROAD TO FOTHERINGAY left off and you soon learn soon the fate of the pregnancy that takes place at the end of the first book. I give THE ROYAL ROAD TO FOTHERINGAY 5 out of 5 stars as a piece of fiction. |
| Marie |
| The Captive Queen of Scots by Jean Plaidy |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Jean Plaidy has written herself another fun-to-read novel and this was a follow up to her ROYAL ROAD TO FOTHERINGAY. I found this book to have a sympathetic view on Mary, moreso than usual. Mary does not want any harm to come to Elizabeth I, her captor for almost 20 years, and in this (fiction) book that is repeated continually in order to propose the more innocent side of Mary. As I have not ready many nonfiction or in-depth books specifically on Mary and her involvement in the many plots that sprang up in order to promote her release, I can not say for sure how involved she was. In this book, Elizabeth is portrayed as indeed wanting Mary to die as soon as possible, because of the religious strife that England had undergone. Before Elizabeth, there was her older half-sister, Mary, who had ruled England as a Catholic nation and persecuted the "heretics" with zeal. Smithfield became the place where the executions were taking place and caused so much fear that Protestantism had to be practiced behind closed doors. After Mary I's death, Edward VI was crowned King at 9 years old, and allowed Protestantism again through the rule of his advisers. At Edwards' death, Lady Jane Grey was queen for nine days and finally we come to Elizabeth. She was crowned in 1558, and she was a Protestant. Mary Stuart was very Catholic, although she vowed she would allow her people to freely pray regardless of their beliefs, since that one God was the same God between the two. Due to this tolerance, some of the English would not have minded Mary Stuart being an heir to the throne, and of course, many of the Scottish believed Elizabeth had no right at all to the throne since Elizabeth's mother was Anne Boelyn, who was beheaded and no friend to the Catholic Church. The Catholics liked to call Elizabeth a bastard and therefore felt that Mary Stuart, as a great-granddaughter of Henry VII, had a stronger claim to the throne. It was because of these facts that Elizabeth felt a very strong threat from Mary Stuart, and kept her imprisoned for almost 20 years. The book shows how Mary tried to escape several times. The Babington Plot could have succeeded if not for the arrogance and stupidity of Anthony Babington. He was executed, as was the Duke of Norfolk for an earlier plot who wished to marry Mary. In this book, it is portrayed as Mary trying not to have a lot of responsibility in the plots, but that she indeed wanted out of captivity. In reality, she was probably much more shrewd and willing to stop at nothing to get herself out of Elizabeth's grip, and to rule Scotland and England together as eventually Mary's son did. Elizabeth is shown much less sympathetic in this book and is eager to find a way to do away with Mary for good without making it look like she ordered it done. Eventually Elizabeth gets her wish at the end of this book, and a very solemn Mary is beheaded at Fotheringay. I will be eager to read more nonfiction books on the Queen of Scots and try to see where the line is between the truth and fiction regarding her involvement in the many plots, and if she truly loved Bothwell or the Duke of Norfolk. And did George exist? I give THE CAPTIVE QUEEN OF SCOTTS 5 stars, of course. |
| Sandra F. |
| The Redbreast by Jo Nesbo |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A good thriller by a Norwegian writer, it definitely holds the reader's attention. It does tend to be a bit confusing at times, but this may be the result of the translation. |
| Sandra F. |
| The Ice Limit by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
A thriller with a supernatural twist. Not the greatest of their books. |
| Sandra F. |
| Jane and His Lordship's Legacy by Stepanie Barron |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
All of the mysteries in this series are based on Jane Austen and are wonderfully written. You will feel that you really are reading something by her. |
| Fran |
| A Three Dog Life by Abigail Thomas |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A memoir of a woman who pieces her life together (with the comfort of her three dogs) following an accident that left her husband with a traumatic brain injury. A quick, sad but poetic story. |
| Phoenix |
| Renegade for Peace and Justice by Barbara Lee |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A fascinating biography by California Congresswoman Barbara Lee. She talks about how she came to develop her progressive views, and shares moving personal stories. A good read for anyone interested in a candid look into the life of an African-American politician with strong principles and a strong heart. |
| Hedi Hopwood (hedihopwood@aol.com) |
| The Year We Disappeared by Cylin Busby & John Busby |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is a true story of a police officer who was shot in 1979. The story alternates between two voices, that of John Bubsy and Cylin Busby whose life fell apart when she was nine years old. Although this is a local story (Falmouth, Cape Cod Massachusttes) it is a testament of how the local judicial system failed. It was common knowledge who shot him, yet this man "got away". His brother eventually came forward and said he was driving the car, and the man's considerably younger wife was there. As this story could become great fiction, she was found shot in the head two years ago, although that shooting was not related to the shooting of Mr. Busby, it tells a great story of how this family was able to do whatever they deemed fit. The shooter is now in a mental hospital and although the brother admitted to this crime, the statue of limitation for this crime has expired. I think anyone who reads this story will be moved, I hope that this book can become a bestseller to help this family. The money from this book will never bring those years back, but perhaps it will show that people do care. This story is going to be "48 Hours". I am of no relation or even know this family, however, I feel this is story that needs to be told so that nothing like this will ever happen again. It is under young adult reading in the bookstores. |
| Ana Marie |
| The Gold Coast by Nelson Demille |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I read this book years ago but since the release of THE GATE HOUSE I picked up the first one again. I am again enjoying the sense of humor of the main character. Why, you ask, would I hang on to a book for almost 20 years? Because I keep all my favorite writers. I'm sure glad I did since there is a follow-up. My favorite book by Demille, though, is WORD OF HONOR. |
| Genie |
| The Good Husband of Zebra Drive by Alexander McCall Smith |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Precious Ramotswe finds herself in the middle of an investigation at the hospital when several patients have died under strange circumstances. As is often the case, things are not always what they seem and so this investigation takes that turn. Meanwhile Mr. J.L.B. Matekoni decides he wants to investigate a case involving a husband who may be involved in an affair. As it turns out, he winds up solving a completely different case and comes to the conclusion that investigating cases is not something he really wants to do. Mma Makutsi considers leaving the agancy only to discover that she really doesn't want to make a career change after all. |
| Brenda Broadway (Broadway1b@aol.com) |
| The Likeness by Tana French |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This didn't grab my attention as much as her first book did, so I have slowed down considerably in reading it, and have even read three other books to the end before I could try to pick it up again. It is not terrible, just not great this time. |
| Brenda Broadway (Broadway1b@aol.com) |
| Your Heart Belongs to Me by Dean Koontz |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Actually, it deserves more than 5. This was absolutely Dean Koontz! I was on a roller coaster ride the entire time I was reading it, and I never left the house. |
| Michele |
| The Definitive Book of Body Language by Allan and Barbara Pease |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is a great book about how to read body language. It is divided into quick chapters for easy reference. |
| Genie |
| Blue Shoes and Happiness by Alexander McCall Smith |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Precious Ramotswe finds herself in the middle of an investigation at the hospital where a local doctor seems to be involved in some unethical behavior. Meanwhile Mma Makutsi learns that often times it is the simple things in life that bring real happiness. |
| Juanita |
| The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A book you can't put down! |
| Sara M |
| Cutting for Stone by Abraham Verghese |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Many readers will tell you that CUTTING FOR STONE is the epic story of two conjoined twins fathered by a brilliant British Surgeon and an Indian Nun, and it technically is. Narrated by Marion, the first born twin, we are told of every influence on his and his brother's existence. More than the story being told however, the novel is an accurate portrayal of life in all it's cruelty and wonder. The twins' mother dies in childbirth and their father abandons them minutes later. They are raised in a missionary medical hospital in Ethiopia. As they grow up they are forced to face their past and futures re-defining the meanings of destiny, love and family. While reading you will notice the fine points are painstakingly researched as the story is packed full of medical jargon and situations along with vivid descriptions of Ethiopian culture and history. My only reservation in recommending the book is the novel's "hard moments" as almost every imaginable tragedy touches these brothers, and medical operations and oddities are very detailed. Squeamish readers may want to skim some of these passages. All in all, this novel is elegantly told, superbly structured and the most original piece of fiction I've read in years. It's deserving of every positive adjective I can throw at it; marvelous, and thrilling. You will want to own and lose yourself in this book again and again. Buy it now, and thank me later. |
| Annie Frank |
| City of Thieves by David Benioff |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is a great tale, both gruesome and adventurous, set during the first winter of the Siege of Leningrad. Two young men must find a dozen eggs in a city where rats and pigeons are extinct, having been eaten by the starving populace, or face execution. It's funny, it's poignant, and it's a page-turner. |
| Annie Frank |
| The Black Tower by Louis Bayard |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Great historical fiction set in 1818 Paris during the Restoration. A mystery surrounds the murder of a man who once tended Louis Charles, the son of Marie Antoinette and Louis XVI, during his imprisonment. Vidocq, the scourge of crime, investigates. |
| Genie |
| Whisker of Evil by Rita Mae Brown |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
The story begins with Mary Minor "Harry" Harristeen, postmistress of tiny Crozet, Virginia, coming across a dying man whose throat has been slashed. A major complication is that he also had rabies. While checking out the crime scene, Harry finds a ring that belonged to a long-missing woman. The question is: are the two cases connected and if so, how? Many interconnected puzzles begin to unfold with one of the strangest being the disappearance of a famous studhorse. As an addition to the story, Brown imparts a great deal of information about horse breeding and dispels many common myths about rabies. This who-done-it contains a number of surprises. Not only are all the questions answered in this strange cold case, but Harry leaves her comfort zone (quits her job at the post office) and so the stage is set for the beginning of a new chapter in her life. |
| elaine nan |
| The Associate by John Grisham |
| Rating: 1 Stars |
|
John Grisham's latest. It's the same story all over again. I enjoyed THE FIRM but don't want to read the same premise over and over. Skip this one. |
| Jackie Stewart |
| Dewey by Vicki Myron |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This book is a must read for any cat lover. If you don't love them, you probably would after reading this book. |
| donna |
| My Stroke of Insight by Jill Bolte Taylor |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
It was a great read and offered wonderful insight into the functioning of the brain. |
| donna |
| Loving Frank by Nancy Horan |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Amazing Plot. |
| Hedi (hedihopwood@aol.com) |
| The Little Giant of Aberdeen County by Tiffany Baker |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I had just finished reading REVOLUTIONARY ROAD (a sad depressing book) about people who basically had everything but were not happy. Then I read this wonderful story about Truly and her trying life. It was good to see her finally find peace in her life. It is a very uplifting story. |
| Shyeyes (dawnymae@hotmail.com) |
| Run For Your Life by James Patterson and Michael Ledwidge |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This another great page-turner! Once again James Patterson grabs you from the first page. His characters are vivid, the pace is fast, and the action is super fast! It is a must read for any Patterson fans. |
| Mary Schreiner |
| The Widow's War by Sally Gunning |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
One of the best historical fiction books I have read in a long time. This is a great reminder of how far women have come. |
| Donna |
| Duma Key by Stephen King |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
There were 1 or 2 of his last books that I was not to interested in but with DUMA KEY, he seems to be back on track and I love it. It's very exciting and has 611 pages which I had a hard time putting down at night. I don't want to give anything away but try it if you have not read any for awhile. I think you will enjoy it and be pleasantly surprised. It's a great read. |
| Genie |
| Cry Wolf by Patricia Briggs |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Anna had little knowledge of werewolves. One evening she was brutally attacked and woke to find that she had been turned into one herself. For the next three years she was beaten down by the alpha head of the Chicago. This situation didn't change until she finally made a phone call the the Marrok. Charles Cornick, the enforcer, was sent to investigate. Charles immediately was drawn to Anna and insisted that she accompany him back to Montana. Not only must Anna learn to understand her role as an Omega, but she must put these abilities to use quickly when she and Charles are sent on a hunt to find a rogue werewolf. The hunt proves to be much more complicated than anyone bargained on. A witch, who was practicing dark magic, came on the scene. Not only were Charles and Anna in danger but the lives of the entire pack were suddenly threatened. Briggs has constructed some wonderful complex characters. This book is a page turner for anyone who enjoys a good fantasy adventure. |
| Brenda Broadway (Broadway1b@aol.com) |
| Phantom Prey by John Sandford |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Very good book! Quite suspenseful, even though I had a feeling almost from the beginning that she was not just psychotic, but also has a multiple personality! Awesome writer! |
| Dena |
| Vexing the Viscount by Emily Bryan |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This book was so good. I couldn't put it down. The double life that Daisy led was fun and interesting. Lucian her boss, childhood crush and fellow treasure seeker was an interesting wonderful character that I won't forget. |
| Helen |
| Abundance by Sena Jeter Naslund |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is a wonderful historical fiction account of the life of Marie Antoinette. It is a must read. |
| Bonnie |
| Double Cross by James Patterson |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
You know what you're going to get with a Patterson mystery: a crackling good story with psycho villains and Alex Cross, shrink and mystery-solver extraordinaire. Easy fun read, not great literature. |
| Linda B |
| The Game of Kings by Dorothy Dunnett |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is the first novel of a 6-book series about an "antihero" called Crawford of Lymond, accused of treason, murder, and several other lesser crimes. Outlawed in his native Scotland, he returns to try and redeem his reputation, at the risk of his life. This book has an exciting plot, very memorable characters and is amazingly written. |
| Jaye |
| It Seemed Like a Good Idea at the Time by Moira Hodgson |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
A book combining my favorite things: food and travel! The author grew up in a foreign service family and lived all over the globe, enjoying and learning about the food in each place. It could be a novel with recipes, but it's even better---a biography with recipes, my favorite kind of literature. |
| Jaye |
| The Associate by John Grisham |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
I would have given the book 4 stars, except that it was only 2/3 of a book. What was in print was a real page turner. Then the story ended, with no story resolution. I'll be looking for the other part of this story, because it was absorbing as far as it went; maybe next year? |
| Cindy DeHart-Pentecost (cindypente@aol.com) |
| Shadow Country by Peter Matthiessen |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
During early 1900's Florida, sons try to find answers regarding their father, the notorious E.J .Watson. |
| Barbara |
| Goody Goody Gunshots by Sammi Carter |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is the 4th in a series of mysteries that take place in Paradise, CO. The family dynamics and relationships among people in this small town are brilliantly done. If you're a cozy mystery fan, you should definitely check these out. |
| Debbi |
| The School of Essential Ingredients by Erica Bauermeister |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Erica Bauermeister is my new favorite author! Even though it's early in the year, this is most definitely my top "READ ME" choice for 2009. Poetic prose, food descriptions you can almost taste, and characters I want to befriend. This will be a great Book Group choice. |
| Kathy Vieira |
| Confessions of a Shopaholic by Sophie Kinsella |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is a one day read that took me away from everyday life. This book was a hoot! Chick lit at it's best (fashion, cute guys, etc). It was an easy read and I hated to see it end. I wanted to see what happened to Rebecca Bloomwood so much, that I went out and bought the next novel in this series! A joy! |
| Brenda Broadway (Broadway1b@aol.com) |
| A Mercy by Toni Morrison |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This was a good book, it just took awhile longer to get into it than most of her other books. |
| Gloria Williams |
| Last Argument of Kings by Joe Abercrombie |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
I loved the first two books in this dark trilogy, but this one lags and the characters fall apart. I can't recommend it unless you've read the other two. You just have to find out how it ends. |
| Cathey (dbinpgh@aol.com) |
| Snow Flower and the Secret Fan by Lisa See |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This was selected by our book club and what a great selection it was. It was a very good story about friendship and a secret language between women in nineteenth century China. |
| Fran |
| The Three Miss Margaret's by Louise Shaffer |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I loved this story about three southern ladies named Margaret who form unlikely friendships. Bound together by a dark secret, each is tested when they reunite later in life! Loved the characters and story line! An all around fun book! |
| Gloria Williams |
| Murder by the Acre by Stephen B. Bagley |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This sequel is funnier, smarter, and more intense than the first book in the series. The murders are shocking, and the solution mighty clever. (I didn't guess the murderer this time.) I also enjoyed all the interactions between the townspeople and the main characters. I recommend it highly. |
| Kaye |
| The Help by Kathryn Stockett |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This novel is set in the early sixties in Jackson, Mississippi. THE HELP is an incredible debut novel told from the point of view of three different narrators: Aibileen, a single black woman in her fifties, is a domestic for a young family with one child; Minny is a younger married woman with a houseful of kids, an abusive husband and a very sharp tongue that has lost her many jobs. Skeeter Phelan, a single, white, recent graduate from "Ole Miss" still residing with her parents, is the only woman in her sorority sisters' bridge club who has a dream of doing something with her life. Skeeter wants to become a writer and manages to interest a publisher in a possible book about black domestics and their relationship to their white employers. In a dichotomous society and a time of increasing racial tensions, this was a dangerous thing to do, both for Skeeter and for the maids. Racing against a seemingly impossible deadline, Skeeter, Aibileen, Minny and 10 other maids manage to secretly write the book that eventually causes a social brouhaha while changing the lives of all involved. Although they have some fears and doubts at times, these courageous women are but a small beginning catalyst in the fight for civil rights. This book made my emotions run the gamut; from mad to sad to glad. It made me mad to see how the white women treated the black women as if they were invisible and unfeeling. At one point in the book, Aibileen tells Skeeter that she had commented that black people attend too much church and that comment has stuck with Aibileen. Skeeter wondered what else she had said,"never suspecting the help was listening or cared." They expected their maids to do all the housework and cooking while paying them next to nothing. It seems ludicrous that while the maids were entrusted with the most important job of virtually raising their employers' children, they were not even allowed to use their employers' bathrooms. It made me sad to see how they were treated as if they had no human feelings at all and how they were supposed to be grateful, never complain or feel any indignity at their treatment. The book also made me glad because Skeeter, one of the kindest of the white women, managed to put one of her own sorority sisters in her place. She also came to understand they were all sisters under the skin and to get an idea of what the domestics had to put up with in their lives. Aibileen tried to give the white children she raised to have a sense of respect for themselves and other people at the same time that she gave them a lot of love. Ms. Stockett does a wonderful job giving voice to all her characters, bringing them, their surroundings and their feelings so vividly to life. The social tensions of the times are also very well done. I found it extremely easy to visualize every scenario in the book and deeply empathized with the characters. THE HELP is one book I found really hard to put down and I think this is a novel that will be much talked about. Ms. Stockett is a very talented writer and I am sure this is an auspicious beginning to her career. This novel is highly recommended. Be sure to read her Too Little Too Late Thoughts at the end of the book after the acknowledgments. It will give you a sense of the influences in how and why she came to write the book . 5* |
| Marie G |
| The Time Traveler's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is a wonderful time traveling story that keeps you reading to see what's going to happen next. |
| gayle cowles |
| Firefly Lane by Kristin Hannah |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Kate, an 8th grader is without friends until she meets Tully who is "the coolest girl in the world" and wants to be her friend. Three decades later, they are still best friends until an act of betrayal tears them apart. This book is about mother-daughter relationships and best friends. I could not put this book down. What a winner! |
| Judy O. (joswood@msn.com) |
| Cruel Intent by J.A. Jance |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is a new one from Jance's Ali Reynolds series. This one is set in Sedona, Arizona, one of my favorite places. It involves a murder of a woman in Sedona and her husband is the suspect. I especially liked the terrorism by computer plot, which eventually became the real live thing. It was pretty formulaic, but a good read. |
| Kay |
| The Associate by John Grisham |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I really enjoyed this novel and was pleasantly surprised that this one is more like the first Grisham thrillers that were bestsellers. I still feel like Grisham's books end too abruptly. All in all, it was a good read. |
| Renee |
| Rasputin's Daughter by Robert Alexander |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Historical fiction set during the fascinating Russian Revolution. The fiction is well done and the history bleeds well into the current story. |
| Elizabeth V |
| The Double Bind by Chris Bohjalian |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
To be honest, the end, the last couple of chapters saved this book from a three-star rating. I thought it was kind of dull through much of it. But the last couple of chapters are such a shock, they'll make you want to reread the dull parts to see what you must have missed. |
| Elizabeth V |
| Sacred by Dennis Lehane |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I first read Dennis Lehane about 2 years ago and have since tried to read everything he's written. He's one of those authors whose books you know will be good. But some of his books are hard to find because they aren't new. I just found SACRED at a used book sale and of course, it too, is great. Lehane never makes you read a couple of chapters of background before the story gets good. Right from page 1, I don't want to put his books down. |
| Gina |
| Lemon Meringue Pie Murder by Joanne Fluke |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I am only giving this 4 stars since it was a little too easy to figure out who the murderer was. Other than that, a very enjoyable read. |
| Mary in HB (mljacobsinhb@msn.com) |
| Choke by Chuck Palahniuk |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is another strange book by Palahniuk. I know this is going to be made into a movie, but I can't imagine how they are going to show some of the details on the screen. I must say that his writing is an acquired tasted and not for the faint of heart. |
| Bonnie |
| Blood and Bone by William Lashner |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Satisfactory mystery if you're simply looking for escapism that you'll forget tomorrow. It has the requisite cliché characters (psychopathic villain, handsome never do well hero, attractive female police officer, evil matriarch, etc.) Story moves along. |
| Gale Karley (marcusnanpop@comcast.net) |
| Parallel Lies by Ridley Pearson |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
It's a fair read. It's a book I can take or leave. |
| Brenda Klaassen |
| Astrid and Veronika by Linda Olsson |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is a new author for me. I enjoyed most of the book. I missed the lack of dialog in the book. I did find that the emotions expressed in this book were heartfelt. I found myself drawn into the emotions, sometimes shedding a tear for a character in this book. The story did have a dark undertone. I plan to re-read this book at a later date. |
| Carol |
| The Sharper Your Knife by Kathleen Flinn |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This biography was written so well, it read like fiction. The author conveyed just enough information about the Cordon Bleu school in Paris to keep the reader interested. I can't wait to try some of the recipes included throughout the book and in the back. |
| Mary in HB (mljacobsinhb@msn.com) |
| Fish Out of Water by MaryJanice Davidson |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I am sad to say this is the last of Fred. This was a very cut, quick read and I always love MJD. These are just the perfect bit of fluff for a rainy day. |
| Mary in HB (mljacobsinhb@msn.com) |
| The Demon King and I by Candace Havens |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Excellent series debut from Candace Havens and I look forward to reading the next installment. The concise background, snappy dialogue and action are wonderful. |
| Mary in HB (mljacobsinhb@msn.com) |
| The White House Mess by Christopher Buckley |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
I normally love any book written by Christopher Buckley, but this one just didn't do it for me and it fell flat for some reason. There are sparks of satire, but I think this one was too time-specific. |
| Julie |
| The Interpretation of Murder by Jed Rubenfeld |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
It's a wonderful "who done it" that takes place in New York City at the turn of the 20th century. Sigmund Freud, Carl Jung, are just some of the characters involved the mystery solving. |
| Shannon |
| Blood Sins by Kay Hooper |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is a typical Kay Hooper book in that it is good in a typical way. I always look forward to the newest Bishop Special Crimes Unit book and this book is living up to my expectations. |
| Sandy |
| Still Alice by Lisa Genova |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Would have given this one a ten if possible!!! I have been telling everyone I know to get this book. Even if you are not interested in early onset Alzheimer's you should read it. I wasn't aware that people could start with it as early as 50 or sometimes even younger and that it was hereditary. Please get this book! |
| Debby Creager (cleo@hbeark.com) |
| Strange Highways by Dean Koontz |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is a collection of his short stories. It has a wide variety of different topics and will hold your interest for much more than one story. |
| Coral Harrison (charris@itsyournet2.com) |
| The Spy Who Came for Christmas by David Morrell |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is my first book by Morrell. It is a good mystery. A spy comes to this house with a young boy and mother and the mystery unfolds. The novel keeps you in suspense the whole time. I will try to read another of his stories to see if he does as well with it. |
| Laura Ann Adams (Laura.Adams@ky.gov) |
| Twilight by Stephenie Meyer |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I finally got around to reading this much talked about series and it was very good. I figured it was more of a young adult book but was pleasantly surprised with how much I enjoyed it. The hype was well deserved. |
| Debby Creager (cleo@hbeark.com) |
| The Morning After by Suzanne Forster |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This book is better than most in this genre but it is still typical of its kind. Though it still has quite a bit of intrigue and it will keep you coming back to see who really done it. |
| Joy |
| A Rule Against Murder by Louise Penny |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is the 4th book in the Three Pines series and was just as delightful as the first three. |
| marion miller (lamamil@aol.com) |
| Call Me By Your Name by Andre Aciman |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This is a well written book about a young boy who has a crush on another young man a few years older. It was a little difficult to read at times but it was well written. |
| Laura Ann Adams (Laura.Adams@ky.gov) |
| Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Upon hearing the synopsis of this book, I didn't think that I would enjoy it but a close friend begged me to read it. I did and I absolutely loved it. The author takes a concept that I couldn't imagine ever seeming realistic and totally makes you feel as if you lived through the experience yourself. I never knew what was coming and loved every minute of it. I couldn't put it down wanting to know how it ended and hope there is a sequel to it coming soon. |
| marion miller (lamamil@aol.com) |
| The Secret River by Kate Grenville |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This was a most unusual book about Australia. It was very different as it describes the lives of the men that were convicted felons in the 1800's and the lives they made for themselves and their families. |
| MJB |
| The Associate by John Grisham |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This novel is a great fast paced read about a young lawyer who is blackmailed into stealing important documents from the large firm where he works. I was disappointed in the ending however. Maybe there could be a sequel. |
| Lana E. Mason |
| Life Studies by Susan Vreeland |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I started out giving it 4 stars, but as I keep thinking about the various short stories in this book I wonder if it isn't worth more since it got me to think way after I read the book. |
| Jo Ann (nmjaw@yahoo.com) |
| Plum Spooky by Janet Evanovich |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I love this book. What characters she has. Keeps me laughing and Carl the monkey is hysterical. Lulu is a kick! |
| Diane La Rue (laruediane2000@yahoo.com) |
| The Associate by John Grisham |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Fans of Grisham's earlier, fast-paced books, like THIE FIRM, will enjoy THE ASSOCIATE. Grisham hooks the reader right away with his story of Kyle McAvoy, a brilliant Yale Law School graduate extorted into working for a shady group of criminals. This book is all action, and a real page turner. It gives the reader a look into the hard life of an associate at a high powered law firm in New York City, a change of venue for Grisham from his usual Southern settings. It would certainly discourage anyone who thinks that a career in a big law firm is an easy way to make a lot of money with little effort. I felt that the ending was somewhat abrupt, but fans of Grisham will be pleased nonetheless with his latest effort. |
| Doro |
| The Ash Garden by Dennis Bock |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Fifty Years after the bombing of Hiroshima, Emiko, a six year old survivor, and Anton, a German physicist involved in the Manhattan Project, meet at a conference. This is a powerful story of two lives that are forever tarnished by this world-wide happening. |
| Lynn Tamms (tamms@athenet.net) |
| Winterdance by Gary Paulsen |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Gary Paulsen lived in northern Minnesota. He loved running his sled dogs and decided that in his forties, he could enter the Iditarod Race. This is the story of his preparation and experiences of the race. Parts of it are so funny that I laughed till I cried. His descriptions are so real that you will feel the cold. He's such a wonderful writer. I believe he also writes books for children and young people. |
| Curt Jarrell |
| Bone Song by John Meaney |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is a hybrid future gothic/noir thriller with a whiff of horror tale about a future society founded on the power of death. A detective is sent to protect a beautiful opera singer from a secret cult who want to kill her and steal her bones for their own pleasure. It is filled with twists and surprises. And hang on during the last 4 chapters as the pace quickens and the shocking ending changes the game for everyone involved. This novel is vivid and highly imaginative entertainment. |
| Marsha |
| Lethal Legacy by Linda Fairstein |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
The star in this novel is the New York Library. The rare book collection, the trustees of this institution, the rare maps and art work are also vividly described. We are all beneficiaries of the lending library system but hardly ever give a thought to the persons behind the scenes that started and continue to manage these institutions. Much is to be enjoyed here besides a ripping good mystery. Linda Fairstein has fine-tuned her major characters and added some sinister ones to round out the story. |
| Linda Bedell |
| Sing Them Home by Stephanie Kallos |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
It would be horrible to lose your mother to a tornado and never have any closure as to having a body to bury. How this tragic event affects her children is voyeuristic as the author takes you into their world and how they function. |
| Carol |
| A Pearl in the Storm by Tori Murden McClure |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
One of the best books I've read in some time. Intelligently and beautifully written memoir of overachiever McClure who decides to row (yes, row) across the Atlantic Ocean by herself. I was amazed at her courage, her insight, and her vulnerability. Not your average memoir. |
| Shirley |
| Mentor: The Kid & The CEO by Tom Pace with Walter Jenkins |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
It is an easy quick reading book about overcoming challenges and achieving significance. This was a very uplifting story. |
| Angela Satalino |
| Three Cups of Tea by Greg Mortensen and David Oliver Relin |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Amazing how one person can make such a difference in so many people's lives. It is such an engaging and wonderful story. |
| Madeline |
| Big Fat Manifesto by Susan Vaught |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This YA novel is fast-paced and sassy, smart and relevant not only to teens but to anyone who has ever had issues with weight, whether theirs or a loved one's. |
| Judy (juttz@aol.com) |
| The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I was intrigued with the title of this book. I started to read it and found I couldn't put it down. The whole book is written as letters to other characters and by the end you were hoping for a happy ending. I would recommend this book to everybody... |
| Susan |
| Runner by Thomas Perry |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I have really enjoyed this series over the years. This one got a little grim when Jane wiped out the 7 bad guys permanently, but sometimes that's the only thing you can do. |
| Mary |
| The Ice House by Minette Walters |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Excellent mystery about an unidentifiable man who shows up dead in the ice house which is on the property that is home to 3 women who are outcasts from the local community. The owner of the house's husband had disappeared many years before, and there was speculation then that she had killed her husband. This book has a well written plot with interesting characters. |
| Mary |
| The Silver Swan by Benjamin Black |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This novel is a mystery about a coroner who receives a request from an old friend whose wife was found dead of an apparent suicide not to perform the autopsy because he can't stand the idea of someone cutting her up. It appears the apparent suicide attempt might not be just that. |
| Robin in NC |
| A Small Town Christmas by Debbie Macomber |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
As usual, Debbie Macomber never fails to provide an excellent read! |
| Diane La Rue (laruediane2000@yahoo.com) |
| The Housekeeper and the Professor by Yoko Ogawa |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is a magical, tender story of a math professor who, due to an injury, has only eighty minutes of memory before he begins again. A young housekeeper and her ten-year-old son come into his life and the story of how they become a family is beautiful. The writing is delicate and lovely, and if you liked THE SECRET LIFE OF BEES, you will like this as well. This book won many awards in Japan and was the basis for a successful movie, The Professor's Beloved Equation. |
| Genie |
| No Rest for the Witches by MaryJanice Davidson, Cheyenne McCray, Christine Wa |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This book is comprised of four stories written by four different writers. All feature various otherworld creatures. Three of the stories I liked, one I didn't like at all. "The Majicka" by MaryJanice Davidson --- Ireland lives in an old farmhouse with several supernatural creatures; a vampire named Ezra, a werewolf named Owen who had been booted out of his pack, a very tall fairy named Lent and a possessed car named Judith. She decides to protect these unusual housemates but doesn't understand why until Micah arrives on her door step. He tries to explain to Ireland about her destiny and how she is a Majicka. Otherworld characters are drawn to the Majicka because they are supposed to protect them. Her protection abilities are stretched to the max when a dryad named Willow appears. "Voodoo Moon" by Lori Handeland is the story of FBI agent, Dana Duran, who is in Devil's Fork to investigate several unexplained deaths suspected to be murders. When the investigation seems to indicate Voodoo, skeptical Dana has to redirect her thinking. Complications begin when one of her prime suspects is a man she feels extremely attracted to. "Breath of Magic" by Cheyenne McCray is the one story I didn't find interesting. I assume that one needs to be familiar with the series in order to grasp what's going on in this short story. It seems Sydney has to use her powers to save the world. "Any Witch Way She Can" by Christine Warren was a fun read. When Randy tries her hand at a love spell to bring Mr. Right into her life, she makes a few ingredient substitutions to the mix. The spell causes her to experience more than she bargained for. Not only does she immediately come face-to-face with the man of her dreams, she winds up in her grandmother's house in the middle of otherworldly political unrest. |
| Terri |
| Next by Michael Crichton |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This book made it easy to believe that a genetically altered world is happening now within my lifetime. I read through this book so fast wanting to know what was going to happen next. Is this our future? |
| Dorothy |
| Promises of Change by Joan Medlicott |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
If you haven't read Joan Medlicott's books about three mature ladies who decide to live together in Covington, start now and with the first one. They are all great. |
| Jean M |
| Too Close To Home by Linwood Barclay |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
An entire family is murdered. The neighbor's son knows more about it than he should but not enough to help himself or his own family. |
| Diane La Rue (laruediane2000@yahoo.com) |
| Buffalo Gal by Laura Pedersen |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Anyone who grew up in the 1960's in the Northeast will roar with laughter at Laura Pedersen's memoir BUFFALO GAL. Born in cold, snowy Buffalo, New York, Pedersen's memories of dressing in layers, shoveling for hours and seeing moms climbing through 'the way-back window of the station wagon' to get into a car with iced-over doors struck a chord with me, as I grew up near Syracuse, NY, Buffalo's annual rival for the snowiest city in America. Her recollections of her youth and teen years were familiar, and her observances dead-on funny. As the only child of parents who at times seemed to leave Laura to care for herself at a young age, she strikes a poignant tone as well. I particularly enjoyed her descriptions of her grandparents, her grandmother an immigrant who became a whiz at the stock market and appeared to pass this talent onto her granddaughter. Although at times she becomes repetitive in describing the popular culture touchstones of the day, she reminds me of David Sedaris and Sarah Vowell in tone. I definitely will put her memoir of her time as the youngest stockbroker on the American Stock Exchange, PLAY MONEY, on my reading list. |
| Cindy in CA |
| The Middle Place by Kelly Corrigan |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is the memoir of Kelly, a young wife and mother who is diagnosed with breast cancer. At the same time, Kelly's father, her hero, is diagnosed with bladder cancer. Kelly is able to describe how she copes with these serious life events using humor and her strong will to survive. |
| Deanna Stillings |
| The School of Essential Ingredients by Erica Bauermeister |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is a book that seems to be going nowhere and then you realize you have been captivated for at least 100 pages. You really get involved with the people here and wish them all well. It is a nice read for a snowy afternoon. And don't blame me if you get hungry and have the urge to cook at least one of the recipes. |
| Emily Bickell |
| Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is a very interesting and readable non-fiction book about success. It has lots of real life examples and fascinating stories (really) looking at how successful people got that way. |
| Kathy Mcdaniel |
| Shotgun Alley by Andrew Klavan |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
SHOTGUN ALLEY is a biker bar, Cobra is a murderous biker enamored of the daughter of hellraiser Honey Graham, a rich politician. Bishop is a trouble-finder who loves to fight. He's been hired to find Honey and bring her home . They come together in a brutal tale of hunt and be hunted. Great fights and interesting plot twists make this an exciting, immersive read. |
| Rosalie Sambuco (crimekitty763@yahoo.com) |
| The Welsh Girl by Peter Ho Davies |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
It is the day after D-Day and the German POW's are being moved into the internment camp in Wales. Esther, the Welsh girl, meets Karsten, German POW. This is their story. I am still reading this book and finding it fascinating. |
| Lorna |
| Bones by Jonathan Kellerman |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This book was okay. I read it because I love Jonathan Kellerman and his Alex Delaware series but I was disappointed. It's always enjoyable to keep up with Alex, Robin and Milos but this one was a little boring. Don't judge this author by this book. |
| Leslie |
| How Starbucks Saved My Life by Michael Gates Gill |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A Son of Privilege Learns to Live Like Everyone Else is the subtitle. That is what we read about as the author recounts his downward spiral and the optimism with which he embraced his new life and learned that a prestigious position in a back-stabbing corporation is not the way to really understand what is going on in the real world. |
| Linda M. Johnson (tcheer4life@yahoo.com) |
| The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I am completely enthralled with this book whose name I couldn't remember prior to reading it, but will never ever forgot now that I have. The story, told through letters, of a group on the British Island of Guernsey during World War II who spontaneously formed a book club to protect themselves from the Nazis occupying their Island. This is a delightful story. |
| Sue, Saratoga |
| The Senator's Wife by Sue Miller |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
The character Delia who is the Senator's wife is an intriguing person. I felt much stronger about her than the other female character Meri, who's her next-door neighbor. I kept wondering what I would have done if I'd had Delia's life. |
| F Tessa Bartels |
| The Good Friday Murder by Lee Harris |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
I give it 3.5 stars. This is a good cozy mystery series, starring ex-nun Christine Bennett. It is tightly written with good plot. I enjoy the love interest. I'll keep reading. |
| Marisa P. |
| Hester Among The Ruins by Binnie Kirshenbaum |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
She's a young Jewish American, he's an older German with a Nazi family past. They fall in love. She moves to Munich. Can their love survive their differences? Can she handle living in Germany --- the country her parents fled from? One of the best books I've ever read. This novel is so intelligent and demonstrates great writing style. |
| F Tessa Bartels |
| The Yom Kippur Murder by Lee Harris |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
I like the heroine, Chris Bennett. I like her love interest, Detective Sgt. Jack Brooks. I'll keep reading this series. |
| Margie Bunting |
| Cat Sitter on a Hot Tin Roof by Blaize Clement |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is Clement's fourth book about pet sitter Dixie Hemingway, and not her best, but it's still a cut above most of the other "cat" mysteries out there. No cats solving mysteries, but a terrific protagonist who has a difficult past and an uncertain present. I recommend starting with the first, EVEN CAT SITTERS GET THE BLUES. |
| Bonnie Capuano |
| The Pagan Stone by Nora Roberts |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is book 3 of the trilogy Sign of Seven which is about demons and the good and the bad. It is very interesting and easy to read. A little sci-fi but fun nonetheless. |
| Ilene Harris |
| Kept by D.J. Taylor |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This novel takes place in 1863 and the writing style is that of Charles Dickens. It is a history of Victorian times and a real page turner. |
| mary ann |
| Blue Eyed Devil by Lisa Kleypas |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
This is a fun look at wealth in Texas and family dynasties. The main character is Haven and a self-made wealthy man named Hardy who comes from the wrong side of the tracks. The family has had altercations with him, but he more than proves himself and wins their heart. A good read with subplots of abusive marriages and troubled childhood. |
| Margay Leah Justice |
| Janeology by Karen Harrington |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
This is a complex, unique, and thought-provoking look behind the motives of a mother who kills a child. The premise of the book is the question: Was she genetically predisposed to commit the crime? |
| Tim Zinnecker |
| A Prisoner of Birth by Jeffrey Archer |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Gifted storyteller Jeffrey Archer uses Alexander Dumas's classic tale of revenge, THE COUNT OF MONTE CRISTO, as the template for this well-crafted yarn. |
| Darbys_Closet |
| Kiss by Ted Dekker and Erin Healy |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Just about ready to wrap this book up...great read!!! Lots of action and mystery! |
| mary ann |
| Amy and Isabelle by Elizabeth Strout |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This novel is about a single mother raising a daughter during the 70's . The mother finds out Amy, her 16 year old, has been having an affair with her high school math teacher. Isabelle's life has been lonely and she has tried to shelter her daughter, but she sees her own past getting caught up in her daughter's. It's a story of love and teenage years and how secrets really are never any good and could have prevented a lot of pain. It is very well written. |
| Ivy |
| The Likeness by Tara French |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
THE LIKENESS is a very long and intensely engaging story about a group of young college students living together in a section of Ireland. The 'likeness' comes into play when one of them is found dead and discovered to be identical in appearance to one of the police officers on the case. The switch and bait is smooth and well plotted right up to the end. |
| Robin B |
| Olive Kitteridge by Elizabeth Strout |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
I may give this book five stars by the time I finish it but it's hard to say at this point. This is as series of inter-connected short stories that center around a fairly hard-headed and irascible woman. Everyone who has read it has said it's excellent. |
| Robin B |
| Unaccustomed Earth by Jhumpha Lahiri |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
UNACCOSTUMED EARTH is comprised of long short stories with the theme of immigrants from India coming to terms with life in America, especially the children born in the US who reject Indian culture in favor of American ways. It has lovely writing and it is amazing that the author kept me entranced with the minutiae of their everyday lives. |
| Chris |
| The Comforts of a Muddy Saturday by Alexander McCall Smith |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
This is another installment in the Isabelle Dalhousie series. If you are used to The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency series, it is quite different in prose and feel. And yet, it is a treat to read. You can't go wrong with this author. |
| Debbie |
| Half Broken Things by Morag Joss |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
A psychological thriller a la' those of Ruth Rendell, the story kind of ambles along as you join up with Jean, Michael, and Sophie, three relatively kind-hearted but mostly amoral people. There are a few sections that are just slow, but it was interesting enough to keep reading and wanting to find out what would happen, and I thought the ending was an unexpected twist. Pretty good! |
| Lynn Marler |
| Beat the Reaper by Josh Bazell |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
|
Not for the faint-hearted, but a darkly humorous, action packed thriller about Dr. Peter Brown, an intern at Manhattan's worst hospital who, dealing with patients, mobsters, and the threat of malpractice all in one eight-hour shift, has to beat the reaper. |
| Genie |
| A Nameless Witch by A. Lee Martinez |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Cursed by a sorcerer before she was born, a young woman is rescued by an old witch, Ghastly Edna. Ghastly Edna had been lead by magic to rescue this girl being held captive in the cellar of her family's home. She was told the girl had talent for magic and must be trained in the witchery arts. As it turned out, the magic was right and the young girl turned out to be an exceptional witch. When Ghastly Edna was murdered, the nameless witch set out on a quest to find and stop an insane sorcerer from destroying the world. Accompanied by a troll, Gwurm, and enchanted broom, Penelope, and a demonic duck-familiar, Newt, and a White Knight the nameless witch begins the quest that may well turn out be her last. |
| Eileen |
| The Clothes on Their Backs by Linda Grant |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
Vivien Kovacs, the heroine of the story, is overprotected by her parents. She is naive and bookish. As she finishes her university work she finds a job with her uncle who is involved in criminal behavior. She doesn't give him her real name but her fake name helps her get insights into the family she never had before. |
| Debbie |
| The Serpent's Tale by Ariana Franklin |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
The sequel to MISTRESS OF THE ART OF DEATH, this book has royal intrigue, mysterious murders, wonderful detail and the author's witty writing. I really recommend this series, and a new one is coming out soon! |
| Diane Dubay (monysmom@comcast.net) |
| The Girl Who Played with Fire by Stieg Larsson |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
|
I didn't think it was possible to beat the first book, THE GIRL WITH THE DRAGON TATOO but if anything this was even better --- even grittier and more suspenseful. Some of the most intelligent mystery/thriller books around! |
| Sharon |
| An Almost Life by Kevin Mednick and Judith Shepard |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
|
Do you ever wonder what a lawyer really thinks about? Well this "fictional" account is about a lawyer with a big case and how he handles it. The case actually occurred which makes the book even more interesting. It is good to read a book that does not portray a lawyer as totally evil or a superhero. |
| Chris |
| The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
| This is a story that grabs you and won't let go. I find myself thinking about the characters during the course of my day. I am about halfway through this book, and very glad I bought it. |
