Marsha
Miracle Cure by Harlan Coben
One of basketball's most famous stars is diagnosed with AIDS and along with his beautiful wife, a TV journalist, are both enmeshed with the people in a clinic that profess to have found a cure for the devastating disease. A serial killer seems to be loose and AIDS patients are being eliminated one by one. Admittedly not his best book, the author will have you turning pages to see how it ends.
Dian Boysen
One Breath Away by Heather Gudenkauf
As with her other books, she held you in suspense. It was a timely book considering how many unfortunately incidents there are with people and guns. Good characters. I really liked this.
Allison Gardner
The Empress of Weehawken by Irene Dische
Great story about German immigrants.
Jennifer Lehman
The Brutal Telling by Louise Penny
I love her murder mystery books and this one is as good as ever. They're so hard to put down and I love the characters and the setting of a small Quebec village.
Mary Rodriguez
Make Your Own Luck by Joanne Lewis
A moving mystery about a young attorney who refuses to believe that a thirteen-year-old killed her father.
Bonnie Tollefson
Amber Morn by Brandilyn Collins
This is book four in the Kanner Lake series and is her best so far. Hard to put down!
Peggy Benzin
Where'd You Go, Bernadette by Maria Semple
Hilarious and moving - you won't want to put it down until the last page is read.
Donna Shaw
The Kingmaker's Daughter by Philippa Gregory
I loved The Other Boleyn Girl by Philippa several years ago and then read many of her other books after reading this book. I believe that Kingmaker's Daughter is one of her better books. I'm amazed and enlightened by the efforts of families to be part of "court" and then become targets for who ever wants to replace them. It's seems to be a constant battle of survival.
Joan Diamond
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
This story is unique and somewhat perplexing. I liked the twists and turns in the story line. Just when you thought you knew who did what and why -- boom, another bit of information is revealed and you have to re-evalutate. When I finished the book I was somewhat dumbfounded; do some people really live out their lives in such a calculated way? Cerebral and creative, Gone Girl will have people thinking and talking. A great book for discussion.
Janice Baly
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
This book was well-written and very cleverly plotted. However, I thought the first section dragged and I found the ending unconvincing.
Judy Ross
The Next Best Thing by Jennifer Weiner
I am almost finished reading this book and the author has given readers an excellent way to cope and defeat tragedy with bravery and determination. Good reading.
Nanette McCall
A Shadow of Night by Deborah E. Harkness
Deborah Harkness does not disappoint in the second installation of the All Souls Trilogy. Following Diana and Matthew back to the 16th Century is just wonderful. I am anxiously awaiting the third book but sad that it will end.
Anne Marie Koschnick
The Green Remains by M. K. Graff
The second in the Nora Tierney series, I liked it even better than the first - The Blue Virgin. Based in the Lake District of England with an American protagonist, it is a complex murder mystery that keeps you guessing. Just as I thought I had figured it out, there was another twist. It was intelligent and, while it was informative about the British police procedure and the Lake Region, it wasn't a travelogue or preachy. I would highly recommend it.
Nancy Gallagher
Affairs of Steak by Julie Hyzy
Good cozy mystery about an executive chef in the white house. Great series.
Janet Nydegger
The Fine Color of Rust by P.A. O'Reilly
Funny, well-written: A great book to read on the weekend when you want to relax. It is a quick read. Loretta is a character most women can identify with.
Barbara McCorkle
Haunted Ground by Erin Hart
This is a debut novel set in Ireland.It gives a good sense of place while spinning a good mystery combining past and present. There is a severed head, a missing wife and child, and 2 amateur detectives who are by profession an archaeologist and pathologist who begin a romance.
Elaine Beierbach
A Wanted Man by Lee Child
I love his books. I just regret that Tom Cruise is going to pretend to be Jack Reacher!
Amanda Mullins
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
Full of twists and turns, a page turner and nail biter if I've ever read one!
Helen Duncan
Empire of the Summer Moon by S. C. Gwynne
A fascinating look at a place and people that didn't get covered in any of my history classes. Easy to read and very worth the time.
Beth Zimmerman
The Light Between Oceans by M. L. Stedman
A poignant story about decisions and their shattering results. The main setting is on a remote island in Australia, population 2, the lighthouse keeper and his wife. A decision was made that affected both of them, as well as many on the mainland. I loved the details about the lighthouse, and could totally imagine being there. I was very sad when this book ended...highly recommend!
Nancy Carpenter
The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry by Rachel Joyce
A moving story of a married man who takes an impulsive and unlikely walk to personally deliver a letter rather than mail it. Harold's arduous journey through the English townships becomes a poignant walk down memory lane. Both Harold and his wife Maureen at home do a lot of soul searching and reflection of their past and their now troubled marriage. Both of them are forever changed by Harold's trek. Great read!
Jackie Ranaldo
He See's You When Your Sleeping by Mary Higgins Clark and Carol Higgins Clark
Was in the mood for something light and easy and this title hit the spot. A sweet story with a hint of scandal.
Jean Lesslie
Bloody Mary by J. A. Konrath
Bloody Mary, the second novel in the funny, frightening series of Lieutenant Jacqueline "Jack" Daniels is good from beginning to end. I love this series and plan to read the rest of it.
Linda Hitchcock
Live by Night by Dennis Lehane
Best selling author Dennis Lehane’s soon to be published Live by Night is a darkly noir, richly textured novel about Joe Coughlin, the third and youngest son of a prominent Boston Police Deputy Superintendent who chooses a life of crime fraught with risks and enticing rewards.
Marie-Louise Molloy
Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
Intriguing from beginning to end!
Jean L
Devorcing Jack by Colin Bateman
This is book 1 of 8 in the Dan Starkey series.
An adulterous fling with a anonymous woman who is soon found murdered plunges Belfast journalist Dan Starkey into the district's violent IRA politics. There are more deaths and Dan is the prime suspect.
I liked this book for its twists and turns.
Sherry Fritzsche
I Couldn't Love You More by Jillian Medoff
A great poolside summer read. What would you do for love. And for your family? What if you were faced with a hard decision - how do you decide and live with the consequences afterwards? Loved this story about family and relationships.
Jean L
Them Bones by Carolyn Haines
This is the first of a series set in the Mississippi Delta. Sarah Booth Delaney is not your usual
southern belle. Her knack for uncovering the truth is about to make her the hottest detective in Zinnia. Unwed, unemployed, and over thirty, she's flat broke and about to lose the family plantation. She is also haunted by the ghost of her great-great-grandmother's nanny, who never misses an opportunity to remind her of her sorry state.
This book has some twists that I didn't see coming. I liked it and plan to read more of this series.
Paul Dimino
Black Widow by Randy Wayne White
This is the second Doc Ford book I have read and I plan to read more. The action was fast paced and the story moved along. Doc Ford goes looking for whoever is blackmailing his goddaughter and II thoroughly enjoyed it.
Marguerite Beal
11/22/63 by Stephen King
Love it.
Jean L
Off the Grid by P. J. Tracy
This is part of the Monkeewrench series. Monkeewrench is a four-member group of computer nerds who work with Minneapolis Homicide detectives. Grace McBride has worked through her phobias but the death of one of her friends may undo what she has gained.
Bonney Parker
Lifeboat by Charlotte Rogan
Not a long book but the story was so captivating that I felt like I was on the boat with those passengers with barely a hope for survival.
Kathleen Boucher
Lethal by Sandra Brown
Sandra Brown gets better and better with her mystery novels...this one is a real cliffhanger; I had no clue to "whodunnit" up to the very end. This is a story of a young widow with a 4-year-old daughter, caught up in a maze of circumstances which includes the FBI and her deceased husband's hidden message. I couldn't put it down!
Matt Rowe
The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight by Jennifer E. Smith
A quick but pretty completely satisfying YA novel. Seventeen-year-old Hadley misses her scheduled flight to London for her father's wedding to a woman she's never met—and while waiting for the next flight, she meets Oliver, a boy who's been going to school in the US, also returning to London. They get to know each other on the flight, but then lose each other at the airport and have to make it through their unpleasant days alone. Mostly.
With that frame story, we get a lot of opportunity to understand Hadley's perspective on love, marriage, family, travel, work, etc. etc.—and watch it change, even when she doesn't want it to. An organic, realistic tale of 24 (very significant) hours in the life of one (normal) teenager.
Julie Siemek
Sidney Sheldon's Angel of the Dark by Sidney Sheldon and Tilly Bagshawe
This is an awesome book that you keep you guessing until the end as all of the story lines come together. I love Sidney Sheldon's books and Ms Bagshawe was able to finish his story in fine fashion.
Linda Johnson
Message in a Bottle by Nicholas Sparks
Teresa, a columnist and single mom, finds a message in a bottle while walking at Cape Cod that changes her life. She uses her investigative skills to find the author of the note. A mostly predictable, but entertaining, love story.
Darcy Pawlowski
Shine Shine Shine by Lydia Netzer
Sunny's astronaut husband floats alone in outer space, while his unborn child floats in Sunny's womb back on earth. Together with their autistic son and her perfect suburban neighbors, she navigates her earthbound existence. This is a unique, almost allegorical story, full of amazing metaphors.
Patricia E. Reid
The Absent One by Jussi Adler-Olsen
Carl Moerk introduced in The Keeper of Lost Causes is back with another very interesting cold case. Assad, his assistant at Department Q, is one of my favorite characters. Carl's staff has been increased and the new woman in the department is a very strong and interesting character. The mystery is finally solved but getting to the bottom of the mystery reveals a lot of evil that has taken place in the past continuing to the present day.
Rhonda Lomazow
The Next Best Thing by Jennifer Weiner
Great Hollywood novel from writer rather then actors perspective.
Rosemary Sobczak
Criminal by Karin Slaughter
A real page-turner. Keep the lights on!
mary sue skelton
A Guide to the Birds of East Africa by Nicholas Drayson
A wonderful read; this is about east Africa and actually some content about the birds. More importantly, it has a real plot with heavy character interest. Great writing and the author managed to make one care a lot about the main character. As a bonus, it is quite witty and turns out to be a memorable book.
Tanya B.
A Fistful of Collars by Spencer Quinn
This is number 5 in the Chet and Bernie Mystery series by this author. Bernie is the PI and Chert is his sidekick. Good duo to solve crimes.
Pattie Berryhill
Buried on Avenue B by Peter de Jonge
Great story!
Pattie Berryhill
Ransom River by Meg Gardiner
I thoroughly enjoyed this story.
Julie
The House of Mondavi by Julia Flynn Siler
I had to read this book having just gotten back from Napa and a tour of the Mondavi Winery. What a great book! It reads like a soap opera, only its all real. Greed, ambition, family in-fighting, sexual scandal, it has it all. A truly tragic story of a wine dynasty. I highly recommend this.
Joan Coussoule
10th Anniversary by James Paterson and Maxine Paetro
You laugh, you are sad and it always keeps you so interested. I can't wait for the next in this series.
Suzanne Gonneville
The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
What can I say? This book is as all others have said. Simply great!
Suzanne Gonneville
Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins
Again, what can I say? Only what the popularity of the Hunger Games series has shown to all readers—this third book is a wonderful story.
Ann Hengst
In the Blood by Steve Robinson
As a person who has been doing genealogy for over 40 yrs this book struck my attention.
I enjoy the way he describes how he searches for information on the family. The parts of the books where he describes the trip over where great, just wish he would have went on about them a little more. I found things in this book that I did know know before. As for anyone interested in family history this is a good book for them to read. You never know what you might find when you search your family roots. Enjoy the trip.
Suzanne Gonneville
Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins
Is it necessary to give more praise than what has been shown for this series? This third book completes the Hunger Games series with a bang. Great ending.
Charlotte Zimmerman
The Death Cure by James Dashner
This is the Final Book in the Maze Runner Trilogy. The book is really a good one if you like something out of the ordinary. It really reminds me a little of Robert Ludlum's The Bourne Series, with a little of Christine Feehan's The Ghost Walker series. Well worth reading!
Betty Chrastka
Course of Honour by Lindsey Davis
A great love story -- the unlikely love affair of the Emperor Vespasian with a slave. The book follows them from their first meeting when Vespasian was just a soldier (although a noble) and follows their struggles to survive under the reigns of several insane emperors. The book wonderfully conveys what living as a slave is like and how damaging it is to the psyche. The story of unlikely love is beautifully done with great character development and sense of period.
Stephanie Wooten
The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
A game of magic between two opponents who do not know each other, they only know they have an opponent. Watch as the circus comes to life as the sun goes down, the dreams and ideals of two people develop into a more imaginative way to one up each other. How will the game end, who will survive for it is a fight to the death, discovered late in the book. A beautifully written story, characters are very well developed and the descriptions are out of this world.
Doris C Losey
The Map of Lost Memories by Kim Fay
Passed over for the promised curator position at a famed Seattle museum, Irene Blum travels to Cambodia to search for the lost scrolls of the Khymer empire. To locate the scrolls Blum enlists the aid of several memorable characters who have their own agenda regarding the scrolls. Atmospheric, well-developed characters, and an unusual plot make this an exciting historical adventure novel.
Sharon Elliott-Fox
At Home in Mitford by Jan Karon
A gentle, delightful read-- and quite true to a pastor's life (I can say that as a retired pastor though not Episcopalian). The little town of Mitford has plenty of characters-- sane and not so sane, mostly good, although there are one or possible two whom I would like to take on.
Robert E. Runyon
Last to Die by Tess Gerritsen
I love the series and can hardly put the book down. My wife has company and I want to just find a quiet place where I can sit and read. I must finish this book today. Having read the whole Razzoli and Isles Series I know the characters so well that I can picture the book almost as a movie in my minds eye.
Marilyn Clement
The Ragnarök Conspiracy by Erec Stebbins
I am currently reading an uncorrected advance Reading copy of Erec Stebbins first novel, The Ragnarök Conspiracy. I am approaching the mid-point of the book and I am very excited by this new thriller. I was never drawn to international intrigue and the global conflicts which I generally pass over when looking for my next read, however, this book has drawn me into it's complex web. As I am not finished, I hesitate rating the book so early, but I am fascinated with the plot and characters. This should be a great first novel for Erec Stebbins.
Bill Hamilton
Fireproof by Alex Kava
Maggie O'Dell, intrepid heroine of the series, somehow escapes numerous near death incidents in this latest O'Dell entry. The book tells us far more about Maggie's inner fears that have piled up as Maggie doggedly chases down serial killers who invariably capture her at some point and subject her to all sorts of terrible life-threatening situations. A fire bug is at the center of this story that leads to several deaths--and maybe a second killer as well. It's an enjoyable read.
Judith Strickland
Tigers in Red Weather by Liza Klaussmann
It's been a while since I have been so engrossed in a book, and as if I am in every scene watching and waiting for what comes next. Liza Klaussmann has so much detail in describing each character; their thoughts, their dialogue and surroundings that I am quite breathless. To tell the truth, I haven't even finished the book yet. I am convinced it will not disappoint.
Brenda Rupp
Be Still My Soul by Joanne Bischof
What a wonderful romance between to unlikely people. They start out with a shotgun wedding at the behest of the drunken father of the bride. They leave his home as they aren't welcome their to travel to a city for work, in the Appalachians, a five day trek without money or much food to speak of. They are two who by no means wanted to end up married to each other. She a very strong christian. He a ladies man who plays in a band and makes furniture by hand. He has to grow up very quickly will he turn into a good husband? This is a very good not to be put down book. I finished it in one day! Very inspirational and such a feel good story! A first by this author who has a contract to write three of the Appalachians romances!
Billie Burham
Every Last One by Anna Quindlen
Excellent writing about difficult circumstances in a family life - children, parents, and coping
mechanisms. The first time I had read this author and would look for others, such as Good Dog, Stay, Rise and Shine.
shelly itkin
Trickster's Point by William Kent Krueger
When Jubal Little is found with an arrow in his chest it is wondered why Cork his best friend of many years does not call for help on a cell phone, try to take it out but just stays with him for almost three hours listening to him talk until he dies.
Naturally Cork is suspected as the one who claims his friends life but now we will learn the truth about both friends while Cork proves his innocence.
It was interesting but not as fast paced as I would of liked.
Lynn Demsky
Zoned for Murder by Evelyn David
The beginning probably quarter of the book could of just been skipped. I did enjoy how she had an email friend that she had met through a young widow group and shared a lot of useless stuff with. Once the story got going I really enjoyed it, was surprised by the ending which always makes me happy! Good entertaining fun for a light summer day!
Lynn Demsky
Memories Can Be Murder by Connie Shelton
Quick, fast read. The characters were fun, love how she goes off and gets herself into so much trouble – her boyfriend helps her a lot --- entertaining read! And, will read more!
Peggy Kincaid
Survivor by Gregg Hurwitz
I love Gregg's books. Here you have a man who gets the life he wants and then loses it only to find that there really are things you will do to survive just a bit longer. This is a thriller but it is also a very family oriented book and I felt it really built on the value of family and the strength involved in pulling together. It will keep you on the edge of your seat, turning the pages wondering what Nate is going to do next. It really is a very powerful story about love and readers won't forget Nate Overbay any time soon.
Robin McKay
The Cat Sitter's Pajamas by Blaize Clement
For those who love animals and mysteries, this book is for you. The characters are great [both human and animal, the setting is beautiful and the mystery is absorbing. The ending was a complete surprise.
Sherrie Lidderdale
The Dog Stars by Peter Heller
Dystopic fiction is usually not my thing. Too depressing and dark. But the description of this book intrigued me and so I decided to read it. I wasn't a bit disappointed. Although the subject matter, the loss of 95% of the population through virus and blood disease, is grim, the author wrote a really nice story of survival and the need to move beyond what is safe. The writing style was a little off-putting at first but I was able to get into the rhythm of the writing by about the 3rd or 4th chapter. I was sorry to see this book end, and I hope there is a sequel...and that Hig gets a new dog.
Jud Hanson
Carte Blanche by Jeffery Deaver
Deaver's reinvention of Ian Fleming's iconic British spy is better than ever in this book.
Lynn Hough
Barefoot Season by Susan Mallery
I had issues with the two main characters which made it hard to love this book. I enjoyed reading it, just didn't love it.
Gloria Walshver
Low Pressure by Sandra Brown
Sandra Brown's books intrigue me with her mysterious storyline plots.
Mary Bryant
The Queen's Vow by C.W. Gortner
Novel written about Isabella of Castile. Well written and full of intrigue.
Lynn Demsky
Old Haunts by E.J. Copperman
I’m enjoying this story and did like how the ghost’s skills have enhanced so that more can happen in upcoming books in this series! This one was more complicated than the other two; I had a hard time keeping up with all the characters. But, it was still a great, fast summer read!
Pat Pascale
Tumbleweeds by Leila Meacham
I eagerly awaited this book as I adored ROSES. The three orphans met and bonded early in their childhood and we become really immersed in their life. I particularly fell in love with John and when he decided to become a Jesuit Priest I hoped he will fail to achieve that goal as I longed for a happy ending to this story. Alas, it was not to be. That ruined it for me and did not get a five star rating. but Ms. Meacham spins a really good story and I look forward to her next book with impatience. However, I hope for a happy ending!
Amy Baldwin
When Crickets Cry by Charles Martin
This is one of the best books I've read in a long, long time and I read constantly! The style of writing, the content, the 'mystery' of certain situations keep you so glued to this story, I stayed up many a night!! In regards to those that deal with heart disease and/or heart recipients, my uncle went through such an ordeal, this book put into perspective just what heart recipient patients experience in so many areas.
A MUST READ. It's wonderful! This is one book I wished the author would have never stopped!!
Debbie M
A Sunless Sea by Anne Perry
I thoroughly enjoy reading Anne Perry, especially the Monk series. I am always saddened when the book is finished and I must read a book not as interesting. This book centers on the opium trade and the awful consequences of opium addiction and usage. In this story, the English Parliament is contemplating the requirement of labeling on all opium, but the sellers do not want that to happen. The case starts with the brutal murder of a middle-ages woman. Oliver Rathbone sets out to defend the accused killer, but the outcome is bleak. Also Rathbone struggles with his feelings for his estranged wife and his feeling for Hester Monk. As always, Perry writes a descriptive and informative novel.
Debbie M
The Devil in the Junior League by Linda Francis Lee
Of course, Texans are larger than life in their stories and in general. This story centers on the perfect "Southern" lady with impeccable manners, lifestyle, and clothes. Then a carpetbagger, in the form of a misguided mistress of a wayward husband threatens all Frede holds dear. The story starts slowly and does not gather steam until the final chapters. Frede lists may be cute to some, but become boring and trite as the book progresses. And of course, the book is being adapted into a movie with Jennifer Garner producing and maybe starring in the movie.
Linda Frashure
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
A page turner for sure. This book makes War of the Roses look tame! Loved it.
Bonnie Gluhanich
Rules of Civility by Amor Towles
Well-written novel that captures the feel of the era, 1930s New York
Lesley Fry
The Orphan Master's Son by Adam Johnson
I've only read the first 38 pages of this book but I was hooked right from the start. I love books about foreign countries and their people, but this is only the second work of fiction I've found about North Koreans, and it is a doozy! I started it in bed last night and that was a big mistake. To quote from the jacket flap, "part breathless thriller, part story of innocence lost, part story of romantic love...". I'd write more but I want to get back to reading this book!
Debbie Smith
The Innocents by David Baldacci
I always enjoy his books. An assassin for the government is now the one being played. Great plot and fast moving. Not easy to figure out the plot.
Caitlyn McCampbell
Rapture by Lauren Kate
This wondrous finale to the Fallen series by Lauren Kate wraps up all the loose ends in the series. Of course there were some rough parts, but the book itself was an amazing adventure. This book was fun, magical, and adventurous. Lauren Kate brought fiction and reality together in one amazing tale of angels and a girl and boy with a love almost too powerful. Not everyone will find this book as incredible as I did, but those who are in to fantasy and dreaming will absolutely love this series. The characters are mysterious and funny. The story line is amazing and well-thought. While the ending was sad and final, the adventure was well worth the wait. I would recommend this book to teens and young adults.
Karen Terry
All I Did Was Shoot My Man by Walter Mosley
I really enjoyed reading the 3rd installment about Leonid McGill. Leonid is helping a client, he helped put to jail. I like this character and his family a lot. A very good read.
Susan DeVos
Defending Jacob by William Landay
Riveting story of what happens to a family when the teenage son is accused of murder and his father is an assistant DA. Very compelling read! Certainly makes you think of the many issues that are presented during the course of the novel. Good choice for a book club!
Lorena Keech
Ferris' Bluff by Fred Limberg
From the first page, the book grabbed me. It reminded me a lot of some of Lee Child's early Jack Reacher books. A good man, put in a bad situation, which he could have walked away from, but didn't. Fully developed characters, both the good and the bad guys...and I certainly found myself rooting for the good guys.
Martha Brown
Off the Grid by P. J. Tracy
This thriller begins with Grace McBride's taking a break from the Monkeewrench software business and Minneapolis, on a boat with an FBI agent. All seems peaceful, serene, and Grace is feeling an absence of her usual anxiety when a night attack on board ends the calm and begins a saga that involves cross-country violence and ends on a Minnesota Indian reservation where the Native Americans provide the right kind of aid. Gripping and interesting as the Tracy books usually are!
Lori
The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry by Rachel Joyce
This was a truly unique book. I thought it was beautifully written and there were some mysteries in the book that made me want to hurry to learn about them. The book had a slow pace, but that didn't detract from the book.
Renee Booker
Mama Ruby by Mary Monroe
About a times when a young girl have to do with life in the 1940 when have to deal with 6 older sister where she saw the good life they was living but she was the younger and wanted to get away from her preacher parent and live her life.
fran
Secret Daughter by Shilpi Somaya Gowda
I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this book! The author tells the parallel lives of two families, one in Mumbai and one in America which revolved around an international adoption. I did not know much about Mumbai prior to reading this novel and was fascinated by the two sides of Mumbai, the lives of the rich and the lives of the poor. Vastly different yet fascinating all the same. I enjoyed the characters, the story line and the surprise ending. Beautifully written! Kudos to Shilpi Somaya Gowda!
Tessa B
The Best Pet of All by David LaRochelle
A child who REALLY wants something, will find an inventive way around any argument a parent presents against whatever it is the child wants. “On Monday I asked my mother if I could have a dog.” Thus begins one boy’s quest to get his dream pet. But his mother refuses again and again.
The story will delight any child, or those of us who have been children. Oh, I remember the countless circular arguments and the feeling of triumph when I finally wore my parents down! The illustrations are wonderful, with a nostalgic 1950-60s color palette and design (the brilliance of which is lost on children).
Tessa B
Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro
The students at Hailsham are special. Kept isolated from the outside, nurtured, educated and encouraged to find ways to express their creativity and maintain excellent health, they are nevertheless kept in the dark about critical aspects. Little by little, they piece together the clues to discover their intended purpose in life. Ishiguro creates a dystopian society that seems idyllic at first; he introduces the reader to the horrible reality a little at a time, so that you are seduced by the “normalcy” of these students’ lives. But what happens once they leave Hailsham and go out to find their destinies, is what really sets this book apart. I’ll be thinking about this one for a long time.
Kim Brosan
Destiny of the Republic: A Tale of Madness, Medicine and the Murder of a President by Candice Millard
This story of the assassination attempt on James Garfield reads like a novel while imparting lots of historical information. I found the side story of Alexander Graham Bell's quest to create a device to find the bullet lodged in Garfield's body just as interesting as the stories of Garfield and his assassin, Guiteau and the stories of crony-ism among the politicians. It's a quick but engaging read!
Sheryl Ashley
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
Best book I've read all year. Keeps you guessing to the very end.
Karen Grubb
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
Loved the format of the book using diary entries and experiencing each characters perspectives alternating chapters. A relational thriller you won't be able to put down.
Kathy Vallee
Blind Fear by Lynn Abercrombie
After retirement Hank Gooch is brought back to save his old partner Mechelle who was kidnapped placed in a room and her eyes glued shut. They have 13 hours to to solve a murder if they do not Mechelle dies.
Sally Bergstedt
The Front Porch Prophet by Richard L. Atkins
A pleasant surprise from a book that I received free (or perhaps at .99) when I first bought my nook. The writer is very humorous in a somewhat sarcastic and facetious way. The novel centers on a mountaintop town in northern Georgia and the people that inhabit it.
Bonnie Gluhanich
The Light Between Oceans by M. L. Stedman
One of the best novels I've read in a while. It would make a great book for discussion of right and wrong and morality in general. Very readable, but lots to think about at the same time.
Kristen Fain
An Echo in the Bone by Diana Gabaldon
The Outlander series continues to keep me enthralled through the 7th book. Echo in Bone was fast paced, exciting and deepened my understanding of the characters. After what I though was a slow 6th book I was so excited to get lost in Echo in Bone. Madly waiting to see where the storylines go in next book, My Own Heart's Blood, due in 2013.
Linda A Shell
Defending Jacob by William Landay
This book has been a great read for our Moore Girlfriends Book Club. It really goes to the heart of being a parent and totally believing in your child no matter what. This book takes that trust and loyalty to another level and makes you realize that life can change in a nanosecond and everything you thought you knew as the truth is in question.
Tanya B.
The Sisters Montclair by Cathy Holton
I won this book from Librarything. This is one of the best books I have read this year. I knew after only a few pages that I was really going to enjoy it. The character development is great. The two main characters have secrets from the past that affect their every day lives. Stella a college student finds great comfort in Alice a woman in her nineties who she cares for two days a week. I won't soon forget this book and I highly recommend it to everyone.
Judy O.
Unsaid by Neil Abramson
If you have ever loved or been loved by an animal, this book is for you. There can be an extraordinary link between people and their pets, and this book explores that link. It is a tender, heartbreaking, and life affirming story.
Melanie S.
The Middlesteins by Jami Attenberg
I received this book as an ARC on my Kindle; I believe it comes out in October. I enjoyed the story, the interaction between the characters. The writer was able to weave the story from many different points of view. The writing was very stream of consciousness, and jumped through many different time periods, back and forth, through different characters telling of the story, and was done masterfully by the author. It could have been a mess and confusing, but somehow it all worked and flowed. Being of Jewish descent, I related to many of the cultural references. Overall, I would recommend this story, which deals with our obsession with food to both extremes, abandonment, and love.
Michael McAdam
Micro by Michael Crichton and Richard Preston
I am a die hard Crichton fan so had high hopes for this book. Even though the premise is a little on the hokey/unbelievable side, it is still turning into a page turner! I am enjoying this book immensely and I am tearing through it rather quickly. Good stuff! This author will be missed!
Debbie M
Thyme of Death by Susan Wittig Albert
This mystery series is set in a small suburb in Texas, and the townspeople know one another. But knowing your neighbors does not stop murder, especially when money is involved. The story begins with the death of a woman dying with cancer. But as the story progresses, the suicide develops into murder. But the crazed killer cannot stop at one murder, and before the book is finished more murders litter the herb garden. The story is interesting with the talk of herbs and spices, but the characters are a little flat. I especially liked the ponderings of the mother/daughter relationship, which redeemed the book.
Brady
Full Service by Scotty Bowers and Lionel Friedberg
This non-fiction book is the finest I have ever read on the subject of sex. It is so enlightening on the varieties of sex and the importance of us being a sexual animal as all of nature is. It is most entertaining but of greater importance is the quality of understanding of life by the author. If I could have read this book 30 years ago I know I would have done many things differently.
Sean P.
Winter Prey by John Sandford
John Sandford does such a great job of making horrifying antagonists and believable protagonists without ruining the mystery of the book. Here he crafts a mystery In a small town that Lucas Davenport is well suited to help. Of course there’s a love interest and it goes predictably up to a point. The book took a ton of twists and characters reacted to events as one would think real people might in these extraordinary circumstances. Overall, a heart stopping book! I loved it!
Dottie Mallerich
Low Pressure by Sandra Brown
Thank you for this opportunity. I have been reading since I was per-kindergarten and have never lost the love of it.
JoAnn Carroll
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
Just finished this suspenseful murder mystery "Gone Girl" byu Gillian Flynn whereby the author creates characters that you hate and others that you can cheer on. I love the twists and turns throughout the story line and was anxious to keep turning those pages to find out the ending. It was a quick read and very enjoyable.
tracey swaine
The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield
This was a great book! The writing was excellent and the story kept my attention until the very end. It was a book where I had to keep thinking and wondering who the author was talking about. And there was a twist at the end that I hadn't thought about! We read this for our Sept. book club discussion and everyone loved the book and we had a great discussion.
Sean P.
Honeymoon by James Patterson and Howard Roughan
I’m a big James Patterson fan but at times his collaborative works have fallen flat with me. Here however its anything but. Readers are given a few different storylines and persona's to follow along with knowing they will intercept. There is some mystery, drama, romance (maybe), sex, violence, and it all meshed together well. Patterson makes the killer an interesting character that you actually start to like if you can look past the pesky murder thing. Overall, this was a really fun read. I was pleasantly surprised.
Suzanne Gonneville
Between Sisters by Kristen Hannah
A couple of romances, a 4-year weekly therapy, bitterness, lots of conversations, a lonely sister, a member of a group of friends sister and another Happy Ending novel by Hannah. All so very predictive. But for those who like a fluffy book, this one can’t be beat.
Suzanne Gonneville
Overseas by Beatriz Williams
I enjoyed this book. It is an unusual time-travel story fluctuating between WWI and present day. We never learned how they vacillated between yesterday and today.There were plenty of twists and turns, yet the characters seemed stiff and not rounded out. There was romance, but even that came across as not realistic—way, way too many “darlings” being uttered. All in all, Overseas kept my interest—it is only fiction, after all.
Suzanne Gonneville
True Sisters by Sandra Dallas
Converts to the Mormon faith leave England and Scotland to settle in Salt Lake City, Utah. They begin their trek in Iowa using hand carts rather than wagons. We learn of the hardship, sadness and losses endured on their trip west from four women who are singled out to tell the story. Not being a Mormon, I couldn’t take offense at the authenticity of the faith of which Sandra Dallas wrote, as have many reviewers. So the history, about this time was interesting for me. I had no idea hand carts were used by those who moved west. I thought settlers used wagons and trains! Where have I been? I loved the book.
Sharon Herbert
Bleed for Me by Michael Robotham
Sienna and Charlie, Joe O'Loughlin's daughter, are best friends. An ordinary night turns out to be anything but ordinary when Sienna shows up at Charlie's house covered in blood but takes off running, scared before anyone can speak to her. When she is found she is traumatized, won't even speak and then it is confirmed that she is covered in her father's blood. One thing leads to another and she is charged with her dad's murder. Joe wants to help Sienna. What he's put through in his attempts to prove her innocence is maddening. This story was not at all predictable.
Irene Unger
Shepherd Avenue by Charles Carillo
Coming of age story of an 11-year old boy whose mother dies and whose father has to go away by himself for a while, leaving the boy in the care of his old-fashioned Italian grandparents who he barely knows. Beautiful heart-rending story of growing up in Brooklyn, with characters who are alive and realistic. I loved it!
Maureen H
In The Shadow of the Banyan by Vaddey Ratner
WOW, what a beautifully written book. The story told through the point of view of little girl Raami was wonderful. The Cambodia genocide was horrific. This story is uplifting and so well written that I will not forget this moving book. Thank you bookreporter for your recommendation!
Lorna
Love You More by Lisa Gardner
State trooper Tessa Leoni has shot and killed her husband and her daughter is missing. Was it self defense or murder? Is her daughter alive or dead? DD Warren and Bobby Dodge homicide detectives begin their search for the daughter and investigate what happened the Tessa's husband. I haven't read Lisa Gardner in a while, and I realize what I have been missing. What a great suspense writer! I could not put this book down.
Bonnie Gluhanich
Laura Lamont's Life in Pictures by Emma Straub
Definitely chick lit, but if you're looking for light escapism about Hollywood's golden years then this is the novel for you. However, I'm not sure what all the buzz is about.
Bonnie Belenchia
The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
Magical! A book filled with magic and fantasy taking the reader back in time to a circus of dream like quality. I adored my travels in this novel from a reader that does not do fantasy but enjoys a great mystery.
Lois Belliveau
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
I have a love-hate relationship with this book. It was intriguing and a quick, fun read. But the characters drove me nuts. I couldn't sympathize with either of the main characters and I didn't like the ending --- although I can't figure out what a good ending would be!
Lois Belliveau
The Scottish Prisoner by Diana Gabaldon
My problems with this book were mostly my own fault --- I had not read any of the Outlander series, so it was difficult to follow some of the relationships. I also knew nothing about the Jacobite period in history. That said, the story was interesting and the characters were strong. I just wish that more of the storylines were resolved at the end.
Lynn Demsky
The Hayloft by Alan L. Cook
This was really an enjoyable read, a bit of romance, a mystery about an old family heirloom that almost wipes out the whole family! Brings back some happy times for those of us from the ‘50’s! Well plotted, well written GREAT READ!!!!
LINDA BASS
Legends Of Marithia Book 2 by Peter Koevari
The battles continues as Kassina is brought back to life with Shindar's help, Vartan is stuck in the darkness of Kassina's evil spell and hears Talonsphere calling. Humans, Elves, and dragons unite to take Greenhaven back, while new characters are introduced, some to aid and some to fight against with the evil sorceress vowing to avenge her defeat! Peter Kovevari did it again with book two to keep me in suspense and on the edge of my seat while he slowly reeled me in, like a caught fish where I find myself at another cliffhanger!!
Linda Johnson
Then Again by Diane Keaton and Anna Quindlen
This is mostly a remembrance by Diane Keaton of her mother who died a few years before this book was written after a bout with Alzheimer's. Keaton's mom had years worth of journals, a tradition that Keaton carries on. This book is a merging of her mother's journaling with Diane's about a same situation sprinkled with a hefty dose of recollection. A different take from the usual memoir, but I think Diane Keaton is a different take.
Lynn W
The Land of Mango Sunsets by Dorothea Benton Frank
The story of how Miriam Elizabeth Swanson becomes Mellie is one of my all-time favorites. From New York society to lowcountry (Sullivans Island, SC), Miriam finally gets her head straight with the help of Liz, her new tenant; Kevin, her tenant and best friend; and Harry, her African Gray parrot.
Angie Cox
11/22/63 by Stephen King
Stephen King is not an author I typically read, but this has to be the best book I have read in a long time. It takes you back to the assassination of President Kennedy. The possibility of changing past events is thought provoking. I highly recommend this book to everyone.
Lynn Demsky
Honeymoon for Three by Alan L. Cook
This was an interesting, entertaining read --- kind of a laid back thriller. How Penny and Gary will ever sleep peacefully again, I have no idea! Good read!
B. Klaassen
After the Fog by Kathleen Shoop
I am so glad that I took the time to read this book. There were parts of this book that had rougher language then I preferred, but those parts did not stop me from reading the book. The story pulled me in from the beginning and held me until the end. I enjoyed the true-to-life writing style of this author.
Francisca E B
The Phantom of the Opera by Gaston Leroux
Is there anyone left on the planet who doesn’t know this storyline? The passion of the story, as well as the horror, mystery and danger, have kept it a favorite for over a century. It has been adapted to film several times, and of course made into the hit musical, but the novel does much more to explain The Phantom’s underlying psychology and twisted motivations. I enjoyed the story, but it’s not really to my taste, and I found it hard to believe the characters.
Lori Bednaz
The Shadow Society by Marie Rutkoski
This was a fantastic read! It's a young adult novel that appeals to adults as well. A teenage foster child finds out that she is from a parallel world. Movie rights have already been sold. Being published 10/16/12. I am preordering multiple copies for our Library!
Tessa B
The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznik
Wow …a gloriously illustrated book in words and pictures. The drawings are fascinating and complete the story. The reader needs to take time to study each one. It's a children's book that will be greatly appreciated by adults.
LINDA BASS
A Tangled Affair by Fiona Brand
Two years ago, Lucas Atraeus had a mad secret affair with Carla Ambrosi. Their families were rivals in the business world until Ambrosi Pearls hit financial troubles. Lucas had vowed after his wife's death in a car accident that he wouldn't ever trust his heart and he knew Carla he wasn't what Carla was looking for...
carol Neill
The Light Between Oceans by ML Stedman
WOW! What a story ride! This book makes the reader feel all kinds of emotions.
michele c'melo
Defending Jacob by William Landay
This is the best book I have read in a really long time!
Wendy Catalano
Beautiful Disaster by Jamie McGuire
What a truly amazing story! It gripped my heartstrings from the start to the very end! Jamie McGuire tells the story of Abby, the good girl, and Travis, the bad boy, and their intense roller-coaster ride romance that had me totally captivated. The chemistry, passion and unconditional love they had for each other had me addicted to this novel and I couldn't put it down. I enjoyed each and every character and look forward to reading about them again. Would I read this book again? Absolutely!
Marsha
The Black Echo by Michael Connelly
This is Connelly's first Harry Bosch novel. It won the Edgar Award for the best first novel and deservedly so. It is a fast-paced thriller that becomes personal as he recalls his hellish Vietnam tour as a tunnel rat. How does one chose between justice and vengeance? The twists and turns of the story will keep you entranced.
Lynn Demsky
Hotline to Murder by Alan L. Cook
I was probably a third of the way through the book when I realized I had read it before. I enjoyed it this time as much as last time; it's a wonderful mystery without all the gore and blood! Good way to slowly move on into thrillers! The book is well written, well plotted, quick to read, enjoyable and entertaining!
Elaine Campbell
The Shoemaker's Wife by Adriana Trigiani
While all Trigiani books are enjoyable (and this novel is no exception), it seems like the author wanted to write a great epic novel and really didn't. The characters are likable and the story line keeps your interest, but the"skipping" from one major event to another leaves the reader looking for more. It might have helped if Trigiani added more details and wrote a longer book.
Sara
Close Your Eyes by Amanda Ward
I really enjoyed this book. I felt sucked into the emotional ups and downs of the characters dealing with the anxiety and uncertainty of the murder of their mother and the innocence of their father. I really wish this book would have been longer. I was not ready for it to end.
Lynn Demsky
Bingo Barge Murder by Jessie Chandler
What a wonderful, entertaining, enjoyable read! I fell in love with Shay and all her friends, the story was well plotted, well written and Dawg just seemed like an overgrown Scooby-Doo to me!
Kristi Herbrand
The Reunion by Dan Walsh
Christian fiction that entertained without preaching --- a box of Kleenex is a must for the last 1/3 of the book especially!
Nancy Mitchell
The Chaperone by Laura Moriarty
I loved the book. Very interesting period of time, and a period I knew very little about. Also, this book was not predictable in any way. The surprises just keep coming!
Jayne
The Invisible Bridge by Julie Orringer
A love story set amidst the atrocities of World War II --- story of three brothers in Austria and their family struggle for survival. Beautifully written and excellent character development. An account of man's inhumanity to man --- and how love can help the human spirit. Fabulous book!
Priscilla Escajeda
The Knitting Circle by Ann Hood
After the loss of her only child, Mary Baxter reluctantly joins a knitting circle. Through this circle Mary is able to tell her own story of grief and go on with her life.
Jae
The Inn at Rose Harbor by Debbie Macomber
A pretty good weekend read. At least Macomber keeps more than one plot going.
gina tarburton
Everything She Thought She Wanted by Elizabeth Buchan
Having grown up in England in the 1950's I could see the life of my mother in that of Barbara Beeching and see my own life in that of Siena Grant.
Sherrie
The Shoemaker's Wife by Adriana Trigiani
I don't recommend many books, but I would highly recommend this one and I will reread it as well. Loved it all!!
Donna Shaw
Low Pressure by Sandra Brown
An excellent mystery writer.
Marie Ledin
Handle With Care by Jodi Picoult
Wow! Very intense reading. Reading this makes you appreciate good health, family, friends, and to cherish what you do have ---and if things aren't the best, to find the good in what you have.
Donna Shaw
A Wanted Man by Lee Child
Child's writing is always full of suspense and keeps you turning the page.
Pat Askins
A Land More Kind Than Home by Wiley Cash
Great first novel! I like reading about North Carolina's customs and people.
CHRISTEN BEZOSKI
Happens Every Day: An All-Too-True Story by Isabel Gillies
A shocking, interesting read.
Joy Briggs
The Absent One by Jussi Adler-Olsen
Great read - grabbed me right from the beginning!
Penney Kolb
The Gate To Women's Country by Sheri S. Tepper
This book, published in 1988, speaks to one of the political battles of the current election cycle: that of the treatment and rights of women. Whereas THE HANDMAIDEN'S TALE gives one possible outcome, this book offers a totally different one. A society has developed in which women live inside gated towns and take care of the administration as well as the farming, fishing, raising of children to age 5 (if male), etc, and the men are warriors and live in community outside the walls. Their job is protection. The reasons and expected outcomes make for a fascinating read! Sheri Tepper is one of my favorite authors and can always be counted on to novel solutions/unexpected twists to problems that are often quite current.
Lynn Marler
Trust Your Eyes by Linwood Barclay
Very good thriller with interesting characters, great plot twists & turns.
Elaine McIntosh
The Weird Sisters by Eleanor Brown
This was a delightful read about three sisters reuniting at their childhood home for various reasons. Their father, a professor of Shakespeare, speaks almost exclusively in verse. This is what gives the story a unique voice.
Genie
Play Dead by Davis Rosenfelt
After Andy Carpenter successfully appeals a golden retriever's death sentence in court, he discovers the dog is a key witness to a murder. He is hired to attempt to free the man he is convinced is innocent of this crime and the dog is to play an important part in the courtroom. First question is how to get the jury to take canine testimony seriously. The main problem is investigating the circumstances surrounding this five year old murder in order to find more reliable evidence. As the investigation proceeds, more evidence points, not to just one suspect but to a complex cover up and the individuals involved are appear to be more dangerous than anyone imagined.
Genie
The Widow's Revenge by James D. Doss
Local widow Loyola Montoya calls Ute tribal investigator Charlie Moon to complain about a group of men harassing her. The men have killed her nanny goat, threatened her and prowled around on her property. Since she's been known to tell tall tales, Charlie decided to wait until the next morning to check out her story. He arrives on the scene to discover Loyola has taken matters into her own hands and as a consequences, paid with her life. Although it's too late to save her, Charlie goes on an all out search to track down those who were responsible. What he discovers is much worse than anything her bargained for.
Reva Wamsley
A Twisted Faith by Gregg Olsen
An early morning fire kills Dawn, the wife of a youth minister while he is hunting. The death is found to be accidental but no smoke is found in her lungs. Afterwards, Nick, her husband and the minister, starts looking for comfort in the other women. He tells them it is what God wants and they believe him. One of the other ministers becomes suspicious, but no one else grants these suspicions merit. Eventually, one of the women find the courage to come forward. When everyone starts putting the pieces together, they finally realize how this man has deceived them. One of the women finally comes forward to tell that Nick admitted to her that he set the fire that killed his wife. This novel is a true story about the scandal that changed a church
Marion Peterman
The Shoemaker's Wife by Adriana Trigiani
I loved this book! Trigiani never fails to impress me with her talents. Her previous books about this family were also very good. This one focuses on the early immigrant experience, and what ambition and hardships it took to really make it here. She weaves in the love angles in her books so effortlessly. I'm looking forward to more about this Italian family.
Ellen Whitney
Monkey Mind: A Memoir of Anxiety by Daniel Smith
A comedic look at the world's most common mental disorder, anxiety. While you're rolling on the floor laughing, you will be wondering where he's hidden his camera in your mind!! Well written, touching on many truths that will remind you that you are not alone.
Mary Rodriguez
Cooking the Books by Kerry Greenwood
A good book that balances humor, crime and a puzzle. It also includes some good recipes!
Michele Martin
The Chaperone by Laura Moriarty
I was expecting a story about the adventures of a chaperone and how she finds herself through her adventures in a big city with her young charge. I wasn't that enthused about it when a friend of mine told me to read the book, but I'm glad I listened to her. The chaperone is searching for herself in another way and it is her journey that draws you in and gets you to root for her all the way through. The fact that her charge is Louise Brooks, an eventual silent film actress adds an interesting dimension as well as conflict. THE CHAPERONE is a smooth enjoyable read as it goes back and forth between the chaperone's early life and the time-frame of the story.
Anne Marie Koschnick
The Green Remains by M. K. Graff
The second book in the Nora Tierney series. It's a British Procedural with a cozy twist, and an American protagonist, set in the Lake District of England. While there are many twists and turns in the story, none of them are just thrown in to send you off in another direction but rather offer new insights into the mystery. The first one in the series, THE BLUE VIRGIN, was good and introduced the characters, but this one is more complex and I highly recommend it.
Arthur Harriman
Red Harvest by Dashiell Hammett
A tersely told, gripping tale of murders, corruption, and downright excessive villany in the town of Personville (cynically and insightfully known by many as "Poisonville") as narrated by a hard-drinking and relentless detective whose name is never revealed.
Wanda Thomas
Beneath a Marble Sky by John Shors
After reading a novel about the Eiffel Tower, I am headed to see it in person. My husband is now a little worried because I just finished BENEATH A MARBLE SKY which is a love story about the building of the Taj Mahal, but it is so much more than a love story. It's about family struggles, sibling rivalry and hope set in the 17th century. A story not to be missed! (And maybe I will get to see the Taj Mahal some day.)
Marie-Louise Molloy
Murder by Mocha by Cleo Coyle
Coffee, chocolate, and murder, how can you go wrong?
Wendy Hampton
The Reversal by Michael Connelly
Connelly does it again with his action-packed court room stories. Mickey Haller, stellar defense attorney, jumps the aisle and becomes the lead prosecutor for a convicted felon whose conviction has been overturned by the courts. It is a race against time for Haller with his "relative" Harry Bosch, LAPD detective, to find the evidence before the killings start again.
Fran O
After by Amy Efaw
Wow! Amy Efaw's book was gripping! Once I started it, I could not put it down. Efaw manages to create a sympathetic, likable character despite the heinous act she committed! Very Jodi Picoult-esque.
Kathleen Boucher
The Charm School by Nelson DeMille
Another wonderful, exciting, fast-paced novel from DeMille. THE CHARM SCHOOL is set in Russia, and the reader is drawn into the Soviet state, and KGB conspiracy. A gripping plot, with a lot of description of Russia and its people...very hard to put down.
Ann Hengst
The Ninth Day by Jamie Freveletti
This book is very interesting with excitement on every page. Keeps you wanting to read until you get to the end of the book. A biochemist gets caught up on the Mexican border with a drug cartel, and that's all I will say --- so read the book!
Debbie Bennett
The Wanted Man by Lee Child
I love Lee Child's books and they have not become stale and lifeless like those of so many writers in this genre. All I can say to Lee Child is, "write faster, please!"
Dianne Dow
A Wanted Man by Lee Child
I've read all of Mr. Child's books, and I think this is the best Jack Reacher novel I have read. I loved to see this character in the movies!
Laura McDonald
Red Cell by Mark Henshaw
Really well drawn and likable characters from a man who has lived what the book is about! A special unit consisting of a brilliant man and an agent, who was betrayed by a superior, track down conspirators in a plot involving China. Very fresh and believable and I can't wait for the next story involving these two.
Joanne McIntyre
The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry by Rachel Joyce
A sad, but also uplifting story of a man who begins a journey, on foot, that he feels will keep a friend alive. He has not seen this woman in years, but when he finds that she is in hospice with cancer, he strikes out believing that she will stay alive until he reaches the end of this 600 mile trip. Amazing that I can see in this fictional character and his spouse, traits that exist in my own life, for good or for ill!
Betty Chrastka
Trickster's Point by William Kent Krueger
This is the ninth in a series, but you don't have to read the earlier ones to make sense of this one. If you like an involving mystery with a little native American twist, this is for you.
Jeanette Mateer
Broken Harbor by Tana French
I'm more than half way through it and I am as enchanted with this book as with all of her others. When a family of four is found dead with one barely surviving, the Dublin police are faced with a mostly uninhabited housing development and lots of mystery.
Patricia Douglas
The Gods of Gotham by Lyndsay Faye
A must read for all historical fiction lovers. The setting is NYC in the 1850s when the first police department is being formed. Murders are the central focus and the character solving these murders is much like an American Sherlock Holmes. Historical quotes frequent the chapters and there is a lot of information about the antagonism between the religious factions of the time. A great story.
Patricia Douglas
The Next Best Thing by Jennifer Weiner
A slow moving romance about a woman being raised by her grandmother due to the death of her parents in a car accident. Due to physical scars remaining from the accident, this woman has many things to overcome so she can become successful. This was not my favorite book by Weiner, but it allows the reader to think about things in their own life that they might need to overcome to be successful.
Elle Stracar
First Darling of the Morning by Thrity Umrigar
I'm really enjoying this book. It's a nonfiction account of the author's childhood, and it is very interesting. I'm learning about the Parsi culture, and having read several of Umrigar's other books I get to see some of the character formations from her personal life.
Rachelle Strachar
White Oleander by Janet Fitch
Excellent writing!! Following a young girl through an unconventional life and foster care. Astrid's need for structure and love and her mother's need to manipulate are fascinating. I am thoroughly enjoying this book.
Julie Drajkowski
Zoo by James Patterson
James Patterson never disappoints!
Coral Harrison
Judgment Call by J. A. Jance
This is a Joanna Brady mystery and in my opinion, this is one of the best.
Karen Ryan
The Hard Way by Lee Child
Another great Jack Reacher Novel! I'm slowly making my way through them all. This one has Jack in New York City and once again, he steps unwittingly into deadly trouble. I love the way he travels with just a toothbrush, and buys new clothes every week.
Liz DiBona
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
It is so good that I hated to see it end! This was the first book I had read by this author, but it won't be the last.
Amy Counts
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
Absolutely loved this page turner! A mystery with a great twist told in a modern voice.
Kaylynn S
The Day I Ate Whatever I Wanted by Elizabeth Berg
2.5. One of my favorite authors offers a short-story collection about women of a certain age liberating themselves from habits and expectations of their younger selves. This book is a shot out to all the women who overcome fear to better their lives, and an inspiration for those who are looking to do so.
Ruth Dupchen
Wicked Business by Janet Evanowich
This author makes me laugh out loud when I am reading her books. I have read all of her Stephanie Plum Series, Her Between The Numbers Series, and now the books with Diesel. They are very light books and I can read one every other day because the are quick reads. I am anxiously waiting for her 19th book in the Plum series to come out this Fall.
MsAnnie
Broken Harbor by Tana French
Another top notch book from Ms.French. Frank Kennedy is the protagonist this time and his back story colors his latest investigation. Twisty plot --- no one is what they seem, and you leave this book feeling somehow sad for all the parties involved.
Marilyn Clement
Pocket Kings by Ted Heller
This book is about a paunchy and perhaps over-the-hill novelist who gets hooked on online gambling, and what happens to him and his happy marriage as a result of his addiction. The book opens with our unhappy novelist checked in at the cold Purgatory Inn planning to meet one of the unhappy women he has met online. I have only completed book about 1/4 of the book and am fascinated at the possibilities. Will his soul-mate and wife, leave him when she finds out her husband has started ditching work and is doing nothing but gambling on the internet? I am looking forward to how this story develops.
Judy Sheriff
Trickster's Point by William Kent Krueger
The newest and best the series, and has such great characters!
Coral Harrison
Jana Bibi's Excellent Fortunes by Betsy Woodman
Jana is of Scottish descent, but was born in India. After losing both her daughters and her husband to smallpox, she has only her son Jack, who was sent to Scotland to avoid epidemic. She finds out she has inherited a her grandfather's house in a faraway Indian hill station. Jack wants her to come to Scotland but instead she takes her parrot, Mr. Ganguly and her loyal housekeeper to her grandfather's home. In the process of settling into her new home, she comes across an interesting cast of characters and some adventure along the way. I found the book very interesting,
Marsha
Trunk Music by Michael Connelly
This Bosch novel follows the characters in The Black Echo. Bosch is investigating a murder of a man suspected of money laundering for the mob in Las Vegas. In Vegas, Bosch encounters his old love, Eleanor Wish, former FBI agent and felon now out of prison. No one seems to be what we expect in this novel. There is plenty of action, twists and turns. Overall, a really good read.
Karen Catignani
Last to Die by Tess Gerritsen
The best Rizzoli and Isles novel to date! Gerritsen brings back characters from previous books. It is hard to put down!
Sandra Beatty
The Sandcastle Girls by Chris Bohjalian
Extremely interesting book on the genocide in Armenia in 1915 in the city of Aleppo, the same city that is now in all the news about Syria...wonderfully written.
Gil
A Conspiracy of Paper by David Liss
An enjoyable read about the beginning of the stock market in England in 1719. The story deals with a murder investigation and forged securities. It exemplifies the corruption that was caused by society moving away from tangible money to paper securities.
Raylene Wauda
Still Alice by Lisa Genova
Alice is in the prime of her life when she is diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer's disease. She must learn how to make the most of the time she has left before her memory is completely gone. This book is special to me because my father, who could fix or make just about anything, developed Alzheimer's so I can relate to the pain of Alice and her family.
Judy O.
Tending Roses by Lisa Wingate
Katie and Ben Bowman go back Kate's grandmother Rose's Missouri farm for Christmas. Rose is almost 90 and wants desperately to see her fractured family all together again before she dies. This is a beautiful story about that Christmas get-together.
Sandy McCullough
Dead in the Water by Stuart Woods
In DEAD IN THE WATER, Stone Barringtonhas barely arrived in St. Marks, a lovely Caribbean island nation, on a sailing vacation when something very strange happens: a beautiful young woman sails into the harbor, entirely alone on a large yacht. Before long she is under the intense scrutiny of local authorities in the very considerable person of Sir Winston Sutherland, the minister of Justice. The problem is, though she arrived alone, she had departed the other side of the Atlantic in the company of her husband, a well-known writer, who is no longer in present. Evidence is what fascinates Stone, and Stone is all that stands between the apparently innocent Allison Manning and the patently evil intent of Sir Winston Sutherland.
Sharon Lumb
Elegy for Eddie by Jacqueline Winspear
This is the most recent of the Maisie Dobbs books. While it has been so much fun reading the book series since the beginning, this is a book that also stands on its own. The premise of a female detective/psychology in the 30s may sound a tad silly, but rest assured that this book is a serious look at an age which witnessed the rise of Hitler and England's reaction to his potential danger. It also deals with the issue of people who do wrong for the right reasons and the efforts of a woman to determine the death of a individual from her childhood. As always the book is interesting and compelling. I look forward to the next in the series and hope that I do not have to wait too long!
Lynn Hough
Destiny of the Republic by Candice Millard
This was a great non-fiction! It was a nice read because it is written as more of a story rather than a bunch of facts. I highly recommend it.
Kellie
Without Fail by Lee Child
I like the Jack Reacher character; he is mysterious, dangerous, and sexy all at the same time. However,I struggled with the plot in this book. It wasn’t paced fast enough for me, and the relationships developed in this book lack passion and therefore credibility with me. I'm disappointed, and thinking hard on whether or not I want to continue this series.
Carol R. Clark
The Buddha in the Attic by Julie Otsuka
Different style book with a very significant message to American women. Written about mail-order brides from Japan who came here in the early 1900's. A time when " Caucasians could not marry Mongolians." A terrific book to read following HOTEL ON THE CORNER OF BITTER AND SWEET.
Irene Unger
Heartwood by Belva Plain
Continuation of the author's first book,EVERGREEN, this novel tells the story of the next generation of the Friedman family, immigrants who came from Europe to begin life in America. There are many secrets in the family, one of which could tear them all apart. Very well written, and the last book written by Belva Plain, who died in 2010. Highly recommend!
Tessa B
Good Bones and Simple Murders by Margaret Atwood
Interesting collection of essays on topics ranging from fairy tales to feminism to vampires to death.
Dani Berke
The Taker by Alma Katsu
This book flips between past and present you lose yourself in the story. It is the story about the devil and the people he claims as his own. The book has a touch of the paranormal, but not too much for readers who do not like to read paranormal fiction.
Judith Chipley
Delusion in Death by J.D. Robb
I think this is one of the best of the "in Death" series by Robb (Nora Roberts' alter ego). The book has a corker of a premise and makes you want to think twice before going into any restaurant or cafe at lunch time or happy hour. Robb never fails to grab us by the first page. I read the entire book in one sitting. Originally, the futurist theme of the "in Death" novels turned me off, but I had purchased NAKED IN DEATH the first book in the series and when I read it I was instantly hooked.
pam h
South of Broad by Pat Conroy
Engaging and well written
Judith Santoianni
Defending Jacob by William Landay
My reading group really liked this book. It is about Andy, a district attorney, and his son Jacob, who has been accused of murdering a classmate. We are all mothers, so we spent the bulk of our time discussing what we would do in Andy's position. We also tried to get into Andy's head --- did he really believe Jacob was innocent, or was he trying to 'get off the hook' on questions he had relating to his parenting? This also sparked discussion on current hot button issues such as bullying.
Karen
When She Woke by Hillary Jordan
The main character was sympathetic and heroic. This book offers a futuristic look at a penal code theory. It is a good book for a book club because it presents many issues for discussion.
Richard B
The Time Machine by H.G. Wells
Classic science fiction from one of the fathers of the genre. What I find most fascinating is the decline of intelligence that Wells imagines. The Time Traveler supposes that as men developed industry and societal structure, they came to a point where there was no need to struggle to achieve all their needs. As necessity is the mother of invention, they slowly lost their inventiveness and curiosity. I am reminded of a statement from Ray Bradbury where he laments the influence of mass media on today’s society; in effect, he feels that we are choosing to abandon curiosity and intelligence in favor of mindless entertainment. A society that does not read is no better off than a society that cannot read.
Tanya B.
Blackberry Winter by Sarah Jio
I can't tell you how much I enjoyed reading this book. The author did a great job with character development. The book's main focus is on Daniel Ray, a young boy who goes missing in 1933. After finding about Daniel's story in 2010, Claire Aldridge is fixated on finding out what happened to him. She never suspects the truth leads to her own back door. I highly recommend reading this book.
Bill Hamilton
All I Did Was Shoot My Man by Walter Mosley
Walter Mosley is hands down one of the best contemporary mystery writers. His books are elegantly written, his main character, Leonid McGill, is a flawed, conflicted and complex human being. In this fourth entry in the series, McGill’s mission is to help Zella Grisham who has been convicted of a robbery he is sure she did not commit. The mystery deepens and the story twists and turns with outstanding writing on every page.
Marsha
Die A Stranger by Steve Hamilton
Alex McKnight, former Detroit cop and now a resident of Upper Michigan, has a best friend --- Vinnie LeBlanc --- who is in trouble. Alex is willing to do anything for Vinnie including putting his own life on the line. When the crime war creeps into their area, Alex has to fight against a mob boss from Chicago in order to save Vinnie's life. Riveting!
marion miller
The Submission by Amy Waldman
This is a great book for generating discussion. THE SUBMISSION is about the 9/11 monument and the architects who enter a contest for the best rendering of a memorial to the victims. The book goes into the lives of all those on the committee to pick the winner as well as the residents of NYC. It touches so many discussable issues and has a surprise ending.
Linda H
The Fallen Angel by Daniel Silva
This is the latest book about the retired Israeli spy Gabriel Allon, and true to Silva's fashion the story is never dull as Allon is once again battling Israel’s enemies. This time he goes against Hezbollah as the terrorists attempt to destroy Israel.
Linda Harrison
Capitol Murder by Phillip Margolin
This book has an unbelievable plot that will catch you off guard. A great read!
Linda Harrison
The Witness by Nora Roberts
Another great book from Nora Roberts. The story line was believable with a little romance blended in for some spiciness.
Linda Harrison
The Devil Amongst the Lawyers by Sharyn McCrumb
This is the story of a murder trial carried out in the mountains of southwestern Virginia. The book is vaguely based on fact, but with fiction added in. Overall, a good story.
Linda Harrison
No One Left to Tell by Karen Rose
This book deserves more than 5 stars as Karen Rose really knows how to tell a great story. This one involves corruption in the prosecutor’s office as well as the police department. As PI Paige Holden works with state attorney Grayson Smith to solve a case where an innocent man was set up for murder. However, this case may put their own lives in jeopardy. Who can they trust?
Linda Harrison
Guilty Wives by James Patterson and David Ellis
A very good book that I thoroughly enjoyed. I honestly don’t think you can go wrong reading a James Patterson book. They are always good. When four wives decide to go for a fun weekend in Monte Carlo, things quickly get out of hand.
Linda Harrison
Happy Hour by Michele Scott
This is the story of four friends who meet once a week for wine and friendship. Each has problems and every one pitches in to support each other through it all. A good heartwarming story.
Donna K
The Baker's Daughter by Sarah McCoy
I'm only half way through the book, but I'm loving every page. It not only has a great story line, but it's also full of meaning. You can learn something from this book.
Michael McAdam
Micro by Michael Crichton & Richard Preston
Aside from the whole plot being a little corny and a bit unoriginal, I really liked this book. The action is enjoyable. It is a little short on character development, but nonetheless it is a fun ride. A literary version of a "popcorn movie."
Debbie M
The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry by Rachel Joyce
This book presents life's many wonderful and sad journeys. Harold Fry undertakes to walk across England to save Queenie Hennessy, a women he hasn't seen in decades, from cancer. Because Harold is a man over sixty who has retired from work, he is able to think back on his life and constantly writes to his wife, Maureen, despite the fact that they had been growing apart lately. As I myself approach the downhill journey of life, I find this book insightful and inspiring to make the most of life no matter how old you are.
Wendy Catalano
The Survivor by Gregg Hurwitz
This is the second book I've read by Gregg Hurwitz and he is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors. After reading and loving YOU'RE NEXT he does not disappoint with THE SURVIVOR. The roller-coaster ride begins on the first page and doesn't end until the very last page. Gregg Hurwitz gives us a serious story involving intrigue such as robbery and attempted suicide and then adds humor in just the right places to make this an amazing read!
Carol Schulze
Sister by Rosamund Lupton
Very well written. The story line had many surprises and kept me reading way past my bedtime.
Marie Ledin
Harvesting the Heart by Jodi Picoult
Another great book by Jodi Picoult about life's trials and gifts, faith, how each person deals with their own difficulties in their own way and the outcomes of their choices.
Kitty Szaro
Playing Dead by Julia Heaberlin
This is a book full of action and plot twists. Some of the elements are slightly unbelievable, but on the whole the book is so intriguing that you really do not care. The characters are interesting, some you like, some you hate and some you are not sure about but you just have to know more about. You always want to know what is going to happen next because there is always more action to come, and getting to the truth is really what has you hooked from the beginning. All in all a well written book, that was hard to put down. A fun read.
Catherine Szaro
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
This book reels you in slowly with intrigue and a strange and rather twisted plot. However, I find that I really did not like the two main characters. At first, I found that I did not care what happened to them, but I slowly came to the point where I had to find out what really happened and what was really going on. During the second half of the book it became very hard to put down as more and more was revealed and the sick truth of all that was occurring, little by little is exposed. While this book took some time for me to get into, it did finish with a bang and I would recommend it.
Frances Drukten
The Kitchen House by Kathleen Grissom
I thought I had figured out the ending to this book, but the author managed to surprise me at the end. I also appreciated learning about the lives of indentured servants on plantations in the South around the time of the Civil War. The characters were believable, and this book would be an engaging book club selection.
B. Klaassen
The Broken Blue Line by Connie Dial
This is the second book I have read by this author, and I really enjoyed it. The good cop vs. bad cop dynamic really holds the reader's attention. The characters were well developed and the plot kept me on the edge of my seat the whole way through. I was not able to guess the ending.
Julie
The Barbarian Nurseries by Hector Tobar
A wonderful look at the the real southern California lifestyle of the wealthy who made their fortunes in the Silicon Valley. It is also an eye opening story about the people who enter this world of privilege to attend to the desires of the wealthy, from tending their gardens to taking care of their children.
Kathy Vallee
Liver Let Die (A Clueless Cook Mystery) by Liz Lipperman
This book is the first in a new series. It's a great read and impossible to put down. Jordan works as a culinary reporter at the local newspaper; a job which gets her in all kinds of trouble when she picks up the wrong story.
Nikki Youngren
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
This book was great and I enjoyed every twist & turn in the plot. You can bet that I will be ordering Ms. Flynn's 2 other novels as soon as possible. This book is highly recommended!
Vanessa
Dream Lake by Lisa Kleypas
Return to the idyllic setting of Friday Harbor in DREAM LAKE by Lisa Kleypas. Opposites attract and lovers reunite in this magical tale filled with complex characters, rich descriptions, and enchanting details. A classic romance that is highly recommended!
Rosemary DeMarois
I, Michael Bennett by James Patterson & Michael Ledwidge
Ordinarily I really enjoy reading James Patterson's books, and this one was no different until I got to the end. It left the reader "up in the air," and seemed unfinished.
Lisa Tomasino
Winter Garden by Kristin Hannah
I loved the story! It was so interesting, and it kept me guessing until the last page. A must read for any book fan!
Lisa Tomasino
Heart of the Matter by Emily Giffin
I couldn't put this book down!! I had this book read & passed on to another reader in like 3 days! This was an awesome read.
Lynn Demsky
The Black Stiletto by Raymond Benson
What a delightful, entertaining, "can't put down book" to read! I'm probably against everything the Black Stiletto did but when you knew her reasoning I just became so very proud of her! A well plotted GREAT READ!!!
Linda Blanco
A Beautiful Mystery by Louise Penny
Great story and mystery with the wonderful Inspector Armand Gamache. Leaves you wanting more!
Jud Hanson
Emperor's Tomb by Steve Berry
A good read , but I did not enjoy it as much as his other books.
Lynn Hough
A Wanted Man by Lee Child
As always, Lee Child has written an excellent, suspenseful, page-turner novel covering about two days in the life and times of Jack Reacher. I enjoyed it so much and it was hard to put down. I guess that’s why I finished it in about 36 hours. I definitely recommend it to anyone who likes action packed novels, and you don’t have to have read any of the prior Jack Reacher based novels to enjoy this one.
Reva Wamsley
A Heartbeat Away by Harry Kraus
I didn't realize when I started this book that it's Christian fiction. However, that did not take away from it at all. I could hardly stop reading. The main character is Tori, a surgeon who operates on cancer patients. She has contracted an infection in her heart and the book starts with her getting a heart transplant. As soon as she gets her new heart she starts having dreams of a woman who was murdered. She thinks these dreams may be connected to the donor, so she starts trying to find out her who donor was, but this information is confidential so she starts investigating on her own.
Marsha
Guilty Wives by James Patterson & David Ellis
You will have to suspend a great deal of belief to enjoy this book. It starts out exciting, becomes horrifying and then just plain unbelievable. However, it might give you an interesting read if you life romantic adventure. The locale of Monte Carlo is quite exciting.
Lorns
These Things Hidden by Heather Gudenkauf
Loved this story about two sisters carrying a secret for the past five years and how it has affected them. One has served time in jail and is just released. The other has been living with her "secret" the entire time. Each chapter reveals a little bit more which gives the reader more clues as to what really happened five years ago. Many lives are touched by what happened one night. I love how this writer has each chapter told by a different character. A must read!
BeckyH
The Midwife of Hope River by Patricia Harmon
I usually don’t like books that jump from the present to the past and back again, however, Patricia Harman does it so well in THE MIDWIFE OF HOPE RIVER that I must change my mind. Incorporating births from her own experience as a midwife and seamlessly blending in a framework of history from upper class Chicago at the turn of the century, through union organizing in the coal fields and factories of the northeast and the Great Depression in Appalachia just before WWII, Harmon tells a moving and riveting tale of birth and death. Her well-developed characters and realistic situations carry the reader into harrowing tales of medical practice in an isolated community with sporadic running water or electricity and less money.
Judy O.
The Limpopo Academy of Private Detection by Alexander McCall Smith
This is the latest in the series about Precious Ramotswe of Botswana and her associate detective Grace Makutsi. These books are such fun. A book called THE PRINCIPLES OF PRIVATE DETECTION has been Ramotswe's "bible" since she opened her ladies detection agency, and in this book she meets the author, Clovis Anderson. She also manages to solve a couple mysteries along the way.
Marie Ledin
Rearview Mirror: A Memoir by Alana Stewart
Captivating! Wasn't sure I would want to finish this book, but once I read the first paragraph I couldn't put it down. Great memoir. She goes from a troublesome home life at a young age with the determination and faith to make her life a better one, to the glitz and glamor of fame, to finding the strength to overcome the past. I would recommend this read to everyone --- very inspirational in many ways. I won this book from Bookreporter.com Fall Preview Contest --- thank you.
Shirley Dameron
The Treasure Box by Penelope J. Stokes
This book was so hard to put down!
Bonnie Gluhanich
Joy for Beginners by Erica Bauermeister
Definitely chick lit, but a good read if you're looking for light escapism.
Diane Castiglione
Entwined - Highland Secrets #3 by Elizabeth Marshall
The only thing I can say is, "Wow!!" Elizabeth Marshall has out-done herself in this one. The story has such a wonderful flow to it. Elizabeth brings you in to story and holds you there.You feel you are part of the story and the characters are so real. I had a hard time putting this book down. If you want a book with romance, action, time travel, mystery and a little bit of magic thrown in here it is! Just when you thought you knew what was happening in comes another twist to the story. I highly recommend the whole series.
Wendy Catalano
Almost A Scandal by Elizabeth Essex
Book One, of the Reckless Brides series, is a historical romance and if you love adventures at sea this is the book for you. In order to fulfill her brother's duty, Sally Kent poses as a boy to carry on her family's tradition of joining the British navy to serve their country. Taking Richard's place aboard the ship "Audacious", she then must serve under the watchful eye of Lieutenant David Colyear, a long time friend of the Kent family. Once Sally realizes her identity is no longer a secret to Col, their romance quickly blooms. However, she must complete her commitment aboard the ship during a battle at sea. This novel contains romance, adventure and action and I look forward to the next book in the series.
Wendy Catalano
Low Pressure by Sandra Brown
Eighteen years ago, Bellamy Lyston's 16 year old sister, Susan, was murdered at their family's Memorial Day barbecue. Minutes later a tornado tore through the grounds destroying all of the evidence needed to solve the crime. However, an arrest was made, the accused was found guilty and sent to prison. Eighteen years later, with too many unanswered questions, Bellamy writes a novel based on Susan's murder. Written as fiction and using a pen name, a seedy reporter quickly discovers that the novel is based on a real crime and exposes Bellamy's true identity and her family's secrets. When Bellamy starts receiving threats, it is clear that old wounds have been opened and Susan's murderer might not been the person convicted.
shelly itkin
The Drop by Michael Connelly
When detective Harry Bosch is called to investigate the possibility of a suicide, he is confronted with the question of whether the death was due to suicide or murder. In addition, Harry is also asked to try and solve a mystery that goes back more then twenty years with DNA evidence that points a finger at a man who was only eight years old at the time! We go back and forth on the two cases, and once you start you will not be able to put the book down. As usual things are not always as they seem.
