This contest period's winners were Betty R., Beverly P. and Gina W., who each received a copy of Boar Island: An Anna Pigeon Novel by Nevada Barr and THE FIREMAN by Joe Hill.
Marsha
The Travelers by Chris Pavone
THE TRAVELERS are a bit of a mystery even unto most of the employees as they appear to be an arm of a black ops CIA group. The premise and execution of the novel were good, but it was written in a very confusing manner. Difficult to keep track of what was happening, but then maybe that was what he was trying to get across.
Diane
Slade House by David Mitchell
Eerie!
Elizabeth
I Let You Go by Clare Mackintosh
I LET YOU GO takes off like a speeding train and doesn't stop with the suspense until the last page. I LET YOU GO is a thriller with many twists and some unpleasant surprises and revelations. It addresses domestic abuse and its disastrous effects.
Gerriann
The Cherokee Rose by Tiya Miles
One of the best historical fiction books I have read. I will add it to my top 100 list. The story of three women in present day researching a slave plantation owned by a Cherokee Native American. I learned so much from this story and the author's historical research. Could not put it down till I came to the end. Now I want to learn more about this important part of our history.
Elizabeth
Britt-Marie Was Here by Fredrik Backman
BRITT-MARIE WAS HERE is a heartwarming, funny, enjoyable read. I was delighted with this book from the first three-word sentence of the book, and the delight continued until the last page.
Elizabeth
The Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper by Phaedra Patrick
THE CURIOUS CHARMS OF ARTHUR PEPPER is an adorable, enchanting, uplifting read. Be prepared to fall in love with Arthur Pepper. THE CURIOUS CHARMS OF ARTHUR PEPPER has a very clever, enjoyable storyline that gives you a nice cozy feeling. It felt like a big hug that you didn't want to end. Give yourself a marvelous treat, and don't miss reading THE CURIOUS CHARMS OF ARTHUR PEPPER.
Julie Braun
The Civil Wars of Julia Ward Howe by Elaine Showalter
I learned about the issues re: women of that time period through the experiences of Julia Howe. Also heard about other famous authors of the times.
Harriet
The Geography of Genius by Eric Weiner
Very readable look at creative genius, what it is, what makes it occur and the historical locations where it has appeared in clusters.
Diane
Stork Mountain by Miroslav Penkov
A search for a missing grandfather in the Balkans.
Kay
Whistling in the Dark by Lesley Kagen
Interesting to try to figure out who the guilty party might be...
Michelle
Akhenaten: Dweller in Truth by Naguib Mahfouz
This is the story of the ancient Egyptian pharaoh, Akhenaten, related to a young man by each person who was close to, or who served, the pharaoh. I couldn't help but be reminded of the current state of American politics. Everyone tells a different story. Every single person had a differing opinion on Akhenaten. So, who do you believe? The one consistent thread among all was that he had a strange appearance and that his faith in the One God was unwavering. I would really like to read other books by Mahfouz, as I'm thinking this probably isn't his best. It was interesting enough, but the many points of view relating the story made character development difficult.
Michelle
Children of the Dark by Jonathan Janz
The prose is smart and engaging. The real winner though...the characters. These are characters we really care about. Even the supporting characters are written so we care what happens to them as well. Throw in some pretty scary monsters and quite an interesting plot twist and we have one hell of a horror novel here. Hell, even non-horror fans can get something from this book. Because it's not just about the horrors of what might be lurking in the dark. It's about growing up and learning the hard lesson that the world is not always a very nice place, whether it may be because of cruel, ignorant people or sadistic murderers.
Gladys
When She's Bad by Leanne Banks
Leanne Banks is great at developing characters; they seem so real. In this book she has three love stories going on at the same time and each romance is so distinctively different. Quite a story.
Michelle
The Jane and Bertha in Me by Rita Maria Martinez
The poems in these pages speak to me of a love for JANE EYRE, and also for Bertha, and a wish for their liberation and happiness. I loved the references to Jean Rhys' WIDE SARGASSO SEA (a book I also loved), and Charlotte Perkins Gilman. These references speak to the practice in the past of diagnosing women as hysterical and confining them as treatment. An explanation of the fate of Bertha in JANE EYRE, and its "prequel" WIDE SARGASSO SEA.
I also liked the incorporation of modern themes. Anyone who loves Charlotte Bronte's Jane Eyre, and poetry, should really read this volume. Truthfully, you should read this even if you're not a fan of the former or latter. It's that good.
Michelle
Woman in White by Kristin Dearborn
The author has brought together the perfect pairing of horror and science fiction. We're treated to a mysterious woman in white...seemingly a ghost by the traditional standard. Turns out she is much more. It makes for a spooky story indeed. The character development in this short novella is extraordinary. Each character had such depth, I could actually visualize them in my mind. Usually in a novella, or even a short story, it's over so quickly, there isn't time to feel anything for the characters. That's not true in this excellent little novel. Frankly, I couldn't put it down. Dearborn has grabbed my attention with this one.
SHELIA
The Art of Perspective by Christopher Castellani
I won this book or else I might not have ever read it. I'm no aspiring writer and not even a very wide literary reader! So it was with quiet enjoyment that I was even able to follow along and get some great thought-provoking stimulation. A short book, only around 100 pages size 4x5 give or take, but packed with lots of depth, analysis, and ideas for those who /are/ looking to tell a story and trying to figure out just WHO is going to tell it! Very nice! Definitely heightened my awareness.
Dorothy Gordon
A God in Ruins by Kate Atkinson
A fascinating companion to LIFE AFTER LIFE. While the first book was more of a magical realism story, this book is a more straightforward story of many of the same characters, particularly Teddy, the youngest brother of Ursula who was the center of LIFE AFTER LIFE. It moves outward to his past and future as he lives through WWII and beyond. An excellent read.
Rita
The Space Between Sisters: A Butternut Lake Novel by Mary McNear
I loved this book so much I bought the trilogy of Butterlake novels. It's easy and fun reading, and the characters are folks you would love to have as your friends! Thank you Bookreporter.com for having the contest so I got a copy of this book! I think I read it in three days and it totally took my mind off my chemo therapy and for awhile made me feel as if I were cancer-free! This is a fun book with a great setting on a beautiful lake and I highly recommend it. Thank you, Mary McNear!
Susan
Orphan Train by Christina Baker Kline
A wonderful read about an actual historical event. Thousands of orphans were transported to the Midwest to be adopted or fostered. This novel toggles between the early 1900s and today, telling the stories of two women, one in her 90s, a product of the movement to find homes for orphans, and a modern, troubled teen. I would highly recommend the book.
susan
Wake by Amanda Hocking
From the cover to the last page, I was intrigued by this YA unique story. I read it in 8 hours non stop. It was a pleasure. Must-read!
Suzanne
The Sound of Gravel by Ruth Wariner
The book starts off rather slowly, so it took a while to get into it. It is not as well written or as interesting as THE GLASS CASTLE by Jeannette Walls.
Patricia
Prime Suspect by Lynda La Plante
I couldn't put the book down. I did not see the TV series but I plan to see if I can get it on Netflix. I am getting ready to start Prime Suspect No.2 as soon as I finish the book. I am reading for my book club.
Bonnie
Are We Smart Enought to Know How Smart Animals Are? by Frans de Waal
Animals are smart! This non-fiction is an eye-opener on that very premise. Fascinating stories that prove it. You'll look at all animals in a new light after reading this.
Patricia
The Skeleton Garden by Marty Wingate
The fourth in the Potting Shed series, this is a cozy mystery and a really great read.
Dorothy
'Til Death Do Us Part by Amanda Quick
A great Victorian historical novel read for summer. I liked the twists and turns of the romance and mystery. Good character development of Calista and Trent.
Marsha
Private Down Under by James Patterson and Michael White
The Private series is just getting better. The investigative service has just opened a branch in Sidney and immediately they are swamped with three high profile crimes.
Linda
What We Find by Robyn Carr
Two people are at the crossroads of their life and both find themselves at Sullivan’s Crossing. Maggie Sullivan is a burned-out neurosurgeon. Her father owns the campground and general store where Maggie has been staying and she finds peace here. But she has years of experience as a surgeon as well as years of schooling -- is this what she really wants? California (Cal) Jones is an attorney who lost his beloved wife and is grieving his loss. She wanted him to move on with his life, but he is content with staying at the campground and helping out. Did he want to go back into the big-city rat race as a well-known attorney?
Linda
Big Easy Temptation by Shayla Black and Lexi Blake
This is the third book in the Perfect Gentlemen series and centers around Dax Spencer, Navy Captain, and Holland Kirk, special agent with NCIS. The two had been in love with each other for years but never acted on it until Dax arrives in New Orleans to investigate his father’s murder. His father was a Navy admiral and would probably have been named to the Joint Chiefs of Staff. After he was supposedly found with an underage prostitute, he shot and killed himself. Dax doesn’t believe this about his father and starts investigating with Holland’s help. Witnesses are disappearing and the Russian Bratva has threatened Holland. Who is behind this and why?
Linda
The Dog Who Saved Me by Susan Wilson
Cooper Harrison grew up in a dysfunctional home and left for a career in law enforcement in Boston. His partner was his K-9, Argos. During a takedown procedure, Cooper hesitated in pulling the trigger and Argos went to the man. The man detonated a bomb killing himself and Argos and injuring Cooper. Cooper vowed he would never be a K-9 officer again. Rescuing a feral yellow lab made him change his mind. I love the heartwarming books written by Susan Wilson about amazing dogs.
Linda
Judge & Jury by James Patterson and Andrew Gross
Nick Pellisante has worked with the FBI’s Organized Crime Unit and tried to apprehend Dominic Cavello, the mafia boss. After Cavello kills two of Nick’s agents, he is apprehended but he smiles at Nick and tells him the trial will never happen. Hired killers end the first trial and Cavello escapes before the second trial can commence. Nick is determined to bring Cavello to justice and will do whatever it takes, legally or illegally.
Linda
Kill Me If You Can by James Patterson and Marshall Karp
Matthew Bannon is a former Marine who is now attending art school in New York. He has met and is romantically involved with Katherine Sanborne, one of his professors. Everything is going fine until he comes across a bag filled with diamonds. Taking the bag, he makes a run for it, but the owners of the bag want it back and they will do everything to get it back, including killing those who get in their way. A great book full of surprising twists that you don’t see coming!
Linda
Missing Pieces by Heather Gudenkauf
A suspenseful book that keeps you guessing as to the identity of the killer. Jack Quinlan has been away from his hometown for 20 years and is only returning to see his aunt in the hospital. As soon as he sees her, he questions whether all of her injuries could have been caused by a fall. Then she dies and the sheriff starts asking questions. Jack isn’t the only one who is questioning her injuries. But the sheriff has other news. It seems that his aunt was poisoned and every member of the family is suspect.
Linda
Welcome Back by Lin Stepp
After ten years living in Atlanta, Lydia Cunningham has decided to return to her home in Maggie Valley, North Carolina and to her husband and daughter. Lydia and her three sons left to avoid the verbal abuse heaped on them by her mother-in-law. Now that she’s passed away, Lydia hopes to renew her relationship with her daughter and husband and wants him to renew his relationship with his sons. Another heartwarming story of the people living in the Smoky Mountains area.
Linda
Nantucket by Nan Rossiter
A great love story about a boy growing up on the island of Nantucket who meets a wealthy girl whose family has come to the island for vacation. Her family was against the match and took her back to New York. He never married but remained in love with her until they came face to face after twenty years. The love was still there on both sides.
Trez
Glory Over Everything by Kathleen Grissom
Very good and sad read. Very informative.
Linda
Good Earl Gone Bad by Manda Collins
Lady Hermione Upperton learns that her father has wagered her hand in marriage in a card game and lost. Now she has to marry Jasper Fawley, the Earl of Mainwaring, in order to honor the debt. Although she and Jasper are friends, his patronizing ways aggravate her. She does not see that he does this because he is attracted to her.
Linda
Confessions: The Private School Murders by James Patterson and MaxinePaetro
Tandy Angel is a teen but assists NYPD Detectives Caputo and Hayes in solving crimes. There have been several murders of affluent teens living near Tandy’s home. Her brother Matthew has been charged with stabbing his pregnant girlfriend to death. He tells Tandy he was drunk and doesn’t remember but surely he didn’t commit murder. If this wasn’t enough, someone is letting poisonous reptiles and spiders loose in their building.
Linda
Confessions: The Murder of an Angel by James Patterson and MaxinePaetro
This is the last book in the series and has Tandy returning from the rehab facility where she met with Dr. Robosson. She insists that someone is trying to kill her and believes it is her uncle Peter Angel, who has taken control of the family pharmaceutical company. She wants to close the company due to the experiments done on her and her brothers by their evil uncle. She tries to figure out who is helping Peter in his plot to kill her and finally knows who it is.
Carol
Shelter by Jung Yun
Kyung Cho and wife Gillian are house rich but cash poor. As the realtor advises them that the sale of their home may not bail them out, she is distracted by something in the Cho’s backyard. All three can’t believe their eyes. A naked woman is running towards them. Kyung is shocked when he realizes it’s his mother, bruised, dirty and begging for help This story of a dysfunctional family is fascinating and haunting at the same time. SHELTER is a story immersed in secrets kept, guilt, duty, and abuse. It explores how all of these define Kyung and his family and explores the concept of home. SHELTER is an outstanding, intricately woven debut. It begs reflection and discussion.
troy
Summer of Night by Dan Simmons
Wonderful writing about small town horror and the local kids investigating it.
Jud
Robert Ludlum's The Geneva Strategy by Jamie Freveletti
Jon Smith and the Covert-One return in this 11th entry of Robert Ludlum’s Covert-One series. Smith and his team battle bad guys who want a drug used to erase select memories in a person. Smith is drawn into action after a military unit strangely commits suicide one by one by walking off a cliff. If you love action, don’t miss this book.
Linda
The Muralist by B. A. Shapiro
This author has been on my radar for a long time, but I didn't read her until she was booked for Booktopia. This is the second of two books that will make up her Art-trilogy. Shapiro combines fiction with history to tell a story of art, World War II refugees, and WPA. I have a few quibbles about small incidents, but the story caught my imagination. The story bounces between a young artists in 2015 who discovers small squares of work that may have been done by her aunt who disappeared in 1940. Serendipitously, there are counterparts in WW II that parallel some of today's news, namely refugees looking for a safe haven and an authority who voices a xenophobic caution of allowing foreigners onto our shores.
Linda
The Readers of Broken Wheel Recommend by Katarina Bivald
My rating of this book would probably be closer to 3.5 stars. The story concerns Sara, who arrives from Sweden to meet her bibliophile pen pal, Amy, in Broken Wheel, Iowa to discover Amy died. The town adopts her and watches out for her, not allowing her to pay for anything and helping her open a bookstore to share Amy's books. That is only the simple explanation. I also enjoy books about books and felt, going in, that what the population of Broken Wheel would recommend is more book titles. I was wrong. An amusing read, somewhat predictable, but still a decent read.
Michael
Thrive: An environmentally conscious lifestyle guide to better health and true wealth by Kamea Chayne
This book does an excellent job of providing realistic, small, and gradual lifestyle changes that have the potential to drastically change your daily life while allowing you to make a positive impact on the world. The day after I began reading, I noticed an increase in my mindfulness. I now catch myself when I find myself being negative about trivial things and use the lessons from this book to change my mentality and focus on the present and the things that are truly important in my life. I also found myself drawn to the multidimensional nature of the book. It was amazing how different psychology, environmental science, and nutrition science concepts were incorporated to send a strong and impactful message.
Ellyn
Promise Lodge by Charlotte Hubbard
My favorite genres are suspense and mystery, but I occasionally enjoy a good, simple Amish-themed read. I enjoyed this author as much or more than Jeannette Oke.
Richard N B
Atticus by Ron Hansen
In many ways this story echoes The Parable of the Prodigal Son from the Bible. While there is certainly a mystery at its core, the novel is more about the father-son relationship: the father’s fierce and unfaltering love for his son, the son’s need to atone for past mistakes and despair at feeling unable to make amends, and the failure of both of them to openly communicate and understand one another. The plot has several twists and turns that kept me intrigued and turning pages, but the star of the novel, to me, was the writing and the exploration of these characters and their motivations.
Lynn W
The Sound of Gravel by Ruth Wariner
Wariner reveals her childhood courage to protect her siblings from abusive and negligent parents.
Janet
Queen of Babble by Meg Cabot
I really enjoyed this book. It had just the right amount of humor and romance.
Phyllis
The Guest Room by Chris Bohjalian
Highly recommended, especially if you are a Chris Bohjalian fan as I am. He tackles the awful topic of human trafficking with understanding and facts that keeps you reading up to the last page. I think I have read all his works and this rates on top. Excellent characterization and plot design told between two points of view.
Susan
The Little Old Lady Who Broke All the Rules by Catharina Ingelman-Sunberg
Very funny book about five elderly people who escape their retirement home to go on a adventure.
It would make a great movie.
Burma
Behind Closed Doors by B. A. Paris
OMG, this book was amazing. This is the best book that I have read this year. This story grabs you and does not let up. I did not want it to end. Very highly recommend!
Patti
A Week in Winter by Maeve Binchy
Charming story taking place in a small town on the west coast of Ireland, with many interesting characters.
Nancy J
A Brilliant Death by Robin Yocum
A solid mystery. Yocum is a favorite and didn't disappoint with this new Ohio-based read.
Sheree
How to Be a Good Wife by Emma Chapman
Very suspenseful. It had you wondering if what she was remembering was true or false.
LINDA
Growing and Kissing by Helena Newbury
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review. I loved Louise and Sean story although I was weepy at the end! Louise Willowby hated LA - she was a small city girl that loved the changing seasons. It may have been better if not for the freak accident that killed her parents and left her the sole custody of her fourteen-year-old sister. Parenting was hard since she had no experience and was just twenty-two, buy Kaley had no one, so she dropped out of college just short of a degree in botany and got a cheap apartment in a gang-infested area where Kaley could go to a better school. When Kaley was diagnosed with leukemia, Louise's world fell apart. They barely had money to pay the rent and eat from her part time job.
LINDA
Code of Conduct by Brad Thor
I won this book and agreed to give it an honest review. Now I'm a new fan of Brad Thor! Hidden inside of the most powerful organizations lurks a secret so astounding that it's unbelievable, and suddenly Scot Harvath's world would change drastically! Four seconds of a video captured halfway around the world and sent anonymously to Washington sets a horror loose that makes the Black Plague look like the measles! Someone has a devious plan to eliminate over a billion people, including high ranking personnel in every country with a virus so deadly that it even reaches to the White House! Is anyone safe and how could the virus be stopped, even if the had time to come up with an antidote?
Debbie
Danger of Love by Maryam Tabibzadeh
Maryam Tabibzadeh's novel jumps into a story about the love of a British missionary doctor and a young, married Persian woman. Tabibzadeh lyrically describes Persian/Iranian history while presenting her story of Iranian changes during the 1930s until the outbreak of WWII. Poetry enhances the beauty and richness of the Persian culture, but among this beauty of language and setting, an ugliness dwells. The women must adhere to a strict code of ethics imposed by society and possess little or no freedom. A married man may follow his lustful ways, but a woman must accept her life as a chattel always owned by father, husband, or son. The story ends too quickly before the characters grow and develop.
Phoebe
Miles to Go Before I Sleep by Jackie Nink Pflug with Peter J. Kizilos
Resilience despite adversity, terror turned to talk toward healing, and the power of the human spirit to survive and thrive when challenged beyond what one may feel one cannot are embodied in this book about one woman's real-life experience with evil.
Marsha
Night Work by Steve Hamilton
Hamilton writes a terrific series featuring Alex McKnight, but this is a stand-alone book and a bit on the darker side. However, it is a nail-biter so treat yourself.
Louise
Gone Again by James Grippando
New plot, twisting clues and misdirections.
Bonnie
The Long Walk: The True Story of a Trek to Freedom by Slavomir Rawicz
For fans of GHOST SOLDIERS and UNBROKEN. This is the story of a group of political prisoner's escape from a Russian prison camp in Siberia during World War II and their ultimate walk to freedom. They walked for months through Siberia, Mongolia, the Gobi desert and eventually to India. Amazing story and great for your sons and daughters to read about real heroism, fortitude and humanity.
Susan
My Name Is Lucy Barton by Elizabeth Strout
I thought MY NAME IS LUCY BARTON was just okay. I really wasn't interested in the characters. This is the first Elizabeth Strout book I have finished.
LINDA
Something Old (Brides of Cedar Bend Book 1) by Lena Hart
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review and I loved Mya and Guy's story! Two years ago Mya Daniels had barely buried her dad when the man she'd always loved took her to the county courthouse and secretly married her. That night she had second thoughts about what she'd done and she left in the middle of the night to fly to her mom in London. Now she was older and knew exactly what she wanted and that was her husband. Arriving back in town she was pulled over for speeding and she asked the officer to call Guy as she knew he would fix this like he had in the past. Now, she sat handcuffed and in a cell. Was this Guy's way of telling her he no longer cared?
Jan
The Apartment by Danielle Steel
I enjoyed this book because it showed loyalty between the characters in many situations.
Jan
Robert B. Parker's Slow Burn by Ace Atkins
This novel was good because it was loaded with questions that were finally answered. The action was continual and didn't lag.
Jan
Memory Man by David Baldacci
This was a book about a character already in a previous book. I particularly like the pros and cons of having the perfect memory. Sometimes it is an asset and sometimes a liability. The two ploys play well against each other.
Sharon
Amethyst by Lauren Royal
One of the books in the Chase Family Saga. It is a story of a woman that makes beautiful jewelry and falls for an Earl, whereas she is a humble merchant daughter. Circumstances bring them together, and even though the struggle to come together is quite evident the instant attraction is hard to overcome. Enjoyed this author so much I am reading several of her other books.
KATHY
The 15th Affair by James Patterson and Maxine Paetro
What can I say. I love books by Patterson/Paetro. They are a fast read, with interesting characters and exciting situations. Very entertaining. Would you trust your spouse if he were missing and working with an old flame?
Debbie
Aunty Lee's Chilled Revenge by Ovidia Yu
A new series set in Singapore about a widow and amateur detective and restaurant owner. Ovidia Yu does a fabulous job weaving phrases of her native tongue into the story. Generous and kind Aunty Lee allows the sister of a murdered woman, Allison, to stay at her home while the police search for the killer. Ovidia Yu interjects delicious food and relationships into her story. The language seems simple, but I felt that Yu does this to give the reader a sense of listening to an Asian speaking English. Aunty Lee, the main character, appears to be simple-minded, especially allowing her guest such freedom. But under her simplicity lurks a cunning mind which discovers the deception. I enjoyed the book.
LINDA
A SEAL's Salvation by Tawny Weber
I was gifted this print in exchange for an honest review and loved Genna and Brody's story. Genna Reilly is the daughter of the sheriff. Her life has been dictated and set in tone from the "right friends to the right job", but she puts her foot down and takes the dare of her three friends to kiss Brody Lane, the bad boy from the wrong side of the tracks. At seventeen she tries to seduce him, but Brody knows that her dad is mean and her brother is meaner and she's off limits. Besides, she's jail bait. But Genna is hard to resist.
Kimiko
Night Pleasures by Sherrilyn Kenyon
The first in a series. Good book and I will read the rest of the series, but I felt the main character should have been more interesting rather than just a sort of nobody until the end of the book.
LINDA
Exodus by Jen Minkman
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review and I truly enjoyed Ms. Minkman's retelling of EXODUS in a different way; this story lifted my spirits. World War III began when Africa and the Middle East went to war. Then China got into the act as millions died and the wealthy and those that were prominent were given the choice seats on the last rocket headed to Mars. Sarah Bernstein was at her parent's cabin, waiting for her aunt Rachel to arrive so that they could board the ship together. She still had her laminated ticket in the back pocket of her shorts, but but her aunt never came and after days Sarah was afraid she wouldn't come. Then she saw a figure heading toward her.
Wendy
Everyone Brave is Forgiven by Chris Cleave
A big thumbs up for Chris Cleave's latest book! The plot revolves around a segment of World War II history, the sending of England's children from the city to the countryside to protect the children from Axis bombing. However, children who were handicapped and not white had to remain in London. With that as a backdrop, an enlightening and, at the same time, grim picture emerges. Cleave's characters are brilliantly drawn and the story pulls you in so intensely that the reader feels a vested interest in their outcome. The book is beautifully written and can't be put down.
Fran
Talon by Julie Kagawa
An interesting young adult novel, featuring a mix of teenage summer experiences with dragons. It was pretty interesting and a typical teen book. Not sure if I'm going to read the next in this series yet.
Linda
Is This Tomorrow? by Caroline Leavitt
I read this book in two sittings. Set in the 1950s and 1960s, the author did her homework and sprinkled her manuscript with small details that jolted me back to those times. (What gal didn't wear a circle pin?) What starts as what could be considered as a typical broken home story (dad leaves mom and son, then disappears from son's life) develops into a mystery of what happened to the son's best friend. We are guided through the son's lonely life, his tormenting by classmates, his mother's dates, and his discovery of himself.
Michele
Imbeciles: The Supreme Court, American Eugenics, and the Sterilization of Carrie Buck by Adam Cohen
Very interesting book about the infuriating trial of Buck vs. Bell and the sterilization of Carrie Buck (and her sister, which paved the way for the government to sterilize thousands of other "undesirable" people in the U.S.). It really brings to focus how we need to be aware of what the government is doing, even now.
Jane
Seaside Secrets by Dana Mentink
So many secrets in a town no one wants to come to light, willing to kill to keep them hidden. Angela, a Navy chaplain, and Dan, a surgeon, have returned from Afghanistan. They are not expecting so much danger stateside. Angela struggles with PTSD from when her assistant gave his life to save hers. We all can relate with trying to reconnect with God. I won't spoil things but to tell you that you need to read this book.
Dorothy Flood
The Apartment by Danielle Steel
This was not up to her usual standards. I was very disappointed.
Francisca E B
A Reliable Wife by Robert Goolrick
Talk about your gothic mystery! Betrayal, an abandoned mansion, a long-lost son, and the isolation of a Wisconsin winter are just the beginning. The characters employ duplicity, obfuscation, coercion, prevarication, and downright lies. I was completely caught up in the story and surprised by more than one twist.
Lynn W
Montana 1948 by Larry Watson
A "tale of love and courage, of power abused, and of the terrible choice between family loyalty and justice."
Laurice
It's You by Jane Porter
Loved it!
LINDA
Ascension by Caris Roane
I won this print in Ms Roane's contest and loved Kerrick and Alison's story! Kerrick is a twelve centuries old, a vampire warrior, and he fought the hunger of one woman for two hundred years. He is a Guardian of Ascension and has sworn to protect Alison from the death vamp armies that crave her blood and her power. He fights the temptation to open his heart and veins to Alison as it's forbidden.
Alison Wells is no ordinary human, but was born with supernatural powers and can never make love to a man without placing him in grave danger. Her visions have shown her a man with wings and she's attracted to the image
Debra
Shattered World by Kate L. Mary
Book 3 of a series. I didn't think it could get better than the first one...but it did. The characters keep evolving and I enjoyed the new characters. Just great. Already started Book 3.
Debbie
The Shadow of Death by James Runcie
I have enjoyed the Grantchester Mysteries on PBS, and the actual novel expounds on the series. The first book contains short stories on the different adventures that Canon Sidney Chambers encounters in his quest of serving God. My biggest beef with James Runcie becomes the omission of a table of contents at the beginning of the book. The stories introduce Sidney's meeting with each of the supporting characters such as Leonard, Amanda, Dickens, Mrs. Maguire, and Geordie. Each character plays a role in the life of Sidney in his quest of serving God and helping people to find God's love and understanding. The emphasis of each story gently reminds the reader of the good and bad emotions that push an individual into crime and murder.
Patricia
Descent by Tim Johnston
I loved this book so much! Talk about a page-turner. There were moments where, while I was reading, I had to force myself not to look further down the page because the suspense was killing me! But what's so great about this book is that even the parts that aren't suspenseful are still great. A heartwrenching picture of what the family goes through when a loved one goes missing.
Joni
Circling the Sun by Paula McLain
Just as in THE PARIS WIFE, McLain wove a wonderful historical fiction story in CIRCLING THE SUN. I had previously read Beryl Markham's memoir WEST WITH THE NIGHT, and wanted more about this fascinating woman. McLain provide that and then some. It was one of my favorite books this past spring. Her writing style is wonderful and she breathes life into every page. Highly recommend this book!!
Bonnie
The Forgotten Man: A New History of the Great Depression by Amity Shlaes
Non-fiction, this book really upped by knowledge of the depression, Hoover and FDR's presidencies, and so much more about this era. Be aware thought that it's more about politics and government than it is about "the forgotten man". Very readable and enlightening. Highly recommend.
Jan Zahrly
The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt
Okay, I know this book won many awards. It got a lot of publicity. But it is just a book. An orphan spends time with a wealthy friend's family after his mother dies. Who knows where his father is? Kid was in the same accident that killed his mother. In shock, he comforts a man who is dying who gives him a ring and the name of a company. Also, in shock, he picks up a very famous oil painting and keeps it. After a lot of words, the kid finds the company, gives the ring back, goes to live with an antique restoration guy, gets in trouble, drugs, kid stays in trouble, drugs, tries to do right but still dogged by bad friends, bad choices, drugs. Thank goodness, in the end, they all live happily ever after...or something like that.
Debbie
Follow the Dotted Line by Nancy Hersage
Nancy Hersage writes a hilarious mystery series with Andrea Bravos (Andy) as the 57-year-old mother and grandmother as an unlikely detective. The story begins with Andy's son, Mitch Kornachy, receiving a package via snail mail from his father's current wife, Tilda. Why does Mitch have a different surname than his mother? Another story lurks within this laughable novel. Along the path, we meet Andy's other 3 children and her crazy nephew, Harley Davidson, from Nebraska. Two odd friends join the supporting cast, Ted, her golfing partner, and Lorna, her CPA friend. The quirky characters present an interesting story and softly hint of everyday concerns for all ages. The story moves quickly and deliciously to the conclusion. This is a series.
Lynn W
The Gentle Art of Murder (Dorothy Martin #16) by Jeanne M. Dams
Love this cozy English mystery series and this time the murder was not a murder, but the "murderer" went to jail anyway!
Dorothy Flood
As Time Goes By by Mary Higgins Clark
An excellent read. I couldn't put it down. A loving wife is on trial for killing her husband who had Alzheimer's and an adopted woman is looking for her birth mother.
Thomas Barrington
Love Sick by Autumn J. Bright
I enjoyed this book very much. It is a good read.
Thomas
Killer Within by S. E. Green
This was a very good book. I would recommend this book to anyone.
Thomas
The Shell Game by Janet Evanavich and Lee Goldberg
The book was a very good read.
Thomas
15th Affair by James Patterson and Maxine Paetro
As usual, this book was another good read. His books are always enjoyable to read.
Deborah Smith
Where the Light Gets In by Kimberly Williams-Paisley
The author is the wife of country singer Brad Paisley. This is about dealing with a diagnosis of PPA, a severe type of neurological disorder with similarities to Alzheimer's. It was interesting to hear about the family dynamics of learning about and dealing with this disease. I think it's important to be aware and anyone can learn from reading this story.
Georgia
The Space Between: A Memoir of Mother-Daughter Love at the End of Life by Virginia A. Simpson
THE SPACE BETWEEN is a stunningly honest book about a mother and daughter at the end of life. Although an expert in the field of death, dying, and bereavement, Dr. Virginia Simpson was unprepared for the challenges inherent in caregiving when a life-threatening illness necessitated her mother live with her. Simpson offers readers a glimpse into the real world of caregiving and offers information that will be useful to anyone who has been or will be a caretaker. The book is a testament to the power of love to heal even the most contentious relationship. A must-read. Moving, insightful and uplifting.
LINDA
A Twist of Wraith ( The Mysteries of Bell and Whitehouse Book 4) by Nic Saint
I was given this ARC in return for an honest review, and I can say Nic Saint kept me laughing! The two friends are deep into a case to help not one ghost but four ghosts, plus a cute dog find closure, and this time it'll take the entire watch committee plus Felicity's boyfriend Rick to help! Reece, Alice's movie star boyfriend, is in LA filming a movie and when she said she saw a ghost in the funeral home. He calls a pet whisperer and a psychiatrist on her as he does not believe in ghosts. Add to the mix the two thugs who get in the pet-snatching business and steal his dog, but Spot is so adorable he steals the show!
Linda
Star Island by Carl Hiaasen
Usually I love Carl Hiaasen, but this one didn't catch me. I definitely understand his choice to lambaste popular culture and people who are famous for being famous, but I felt the writing wasn't up to his (my) usual standards. It was also cruder than I have come to expect from Hiaasen. That's a shame. This is a Skink novel, whom I usually look forward to revisiting.
Paul Renick
Choked Up by Janey Mack
In her debut novel, Janey Mack introduces us to Maisie McGrane, once a police cadet, now a meter maid with attitude. Mack uses the effective technique of allowing us into McGrane's thought world, later revealing the dialogue. This technique reveals amazing insight to McGrane and her relationships with other characters. Mack says a lot without being tedious; she chooses seemingly esoteric descriptors but they provide a delightful perspective. I won't reveal the plot of either book because Mack's storytelling and the book's twisty plot deserve a cold read. CHOKED UP is a much grittier and darker journey for McGrane, without sacrificing Mack's patented cheekiness. Make sure to read these in a comfy chair -- you won't put them down!
Kay
Whistling in the Dark by Leslie Kagen
A thriller that keeps you reading!
Laurice
Clockwise by Elle Strauss and Lee Strauss
Very cute!
Laurice
The Blue Bath by Mary Waters-Sayer
Really good! The end gutted me...
Diane
Finders Keepers by Stephen King
Not his best work, but great for a fan like me!
Jud
A Pale Horse by Charles Todd
Excellent book in this outstanding series.
Alice
Chocolat by Joanne Harris
Worth reading if you like fairy tales and reading a part of a trilogy.
Veronica
Lilac Girls by Martha Hall Kelly
I loved this novel. One of the best ones I've read. The characters were determined, independent women.
Veronica
The Translation of Love by Lynne Kutsukake
Beautiful story of the effects of war, the love of family and friends.
Margaret
The Path to Misery by Victoria Logue
A great fantasy, literary novel.
Ray
Don't You Cry by Mary Kubica
One of the worst books I've read in a long while. What makes it stand out, in a bad way, is all the hype this received. Following Kubica's first two novels, each of which were decent thrillers, she follows up with this snoozer of a novel. Not sure what she was going for. There is little to no suspense or likeable characters. The prose is stilted and distracting and the 'twist', which comes far too late to save this drippy novel, is ho-hum at best. A must to avoid if you are looking for a solid psychological thriller.
Bobbie
The Girl Who Wrote in Silk by Kelli Estes
Dramatic story about the Chinese driven from Seattle in the 1800s and then of finding an embroidered sleeve in the present day. Good read.
Mary
Lilac Girls by Martha Hall Kelly
An insightful journey into the minds, hearts and lives of three girls who experience war from three separate life experiences.
Beverlee
My Name is Lucy Barton by Elizabeth Strout
I felt it had a slow start and as I was listening to it on Audible it took me a while to warm up to the narrator. I did love the reveal of the story as it was told - mother and daughter relationships are always a genre I enjoy.
Kay
The Sweetest Hallelujah by Elaine Hussey
This was light, enjoyable reading, but nothing special with characters that weren't fully developed.
Pam
Salt to the Sea by Ruta Sepetys
A memorable historical fiction book about a WWII tragedy that many of us know nothing about. Told from the perspectives of four characters who are trying to escape the onslaught of Russian troops in Poland as Germany falls to the Allies. The history of the time/place is woven seamlessly into the story as each character experiences the horrors of war as well as the unexpected kindness of strangers in their quests to find safety and 'home'.
Nancy
Memory Man by David Baldacci
This is about a man, who after an accident, cannot forget anything. He aids in solving a crime. I enjoyed this book very much. It was up to Baldacci's standards.
Trezeline
Wilde Lake by Laura Lippman
Very interesting. As a resident of Columbia for many years, I was able to relate to much of the story. Many surprises and twists and turns. Very good storyline and character development.
Nissa
I Let You Go by Clare Mackintosh
One of the best psychological thriller books of this year. Very unpredictable and has lots of twist and turns. The book starts off a little slow but then it will pick up and you won't want to put the book down. Highly recommend this book.
Jeffrey
On Writing by Stephen King
I just read this for the second time and liked it even better than the first. One of the best books on writing ever, mainly because it's about how HE came to the profession. Oh, he does get into the basics of language, grammar, etc., but the most fascinating content is his personal experiences with the craft. Inspiring in every way. Highly recommended.
Dawn
Innocents and Others by Dana Spiotta
The writing was beautiful for a photographer and film lover like me to enjoy. I was fooled into thinking I might have stepped into a memoir of sorts because the characters were so real to me. The main characters had grown up together as young girl misfits and were devoted to each other, yet their personalities were extremely opposites. They both had a tremendous love for film, but that is where any commonalities ended. One rich and selfish, beautiful, intelligent, introverted and lacked the common knowledge to relate socially. Her best friend was an extrovert, social, party girl, people-pleaser, watched every dime she spent and was not the prettiest girl in the room but was witty.
Michelle
Blood Sacrifices by Brian Moreland
First of all, the book as a whole. One of the best collections I've read to date...seriously! As I was reading THE GIRL FROM THE BLOOD COVEN, the short prequel to THE WITCHING HOUSE, I was thinking, "This is really something." I was seriously creeped out. That's a good thing. What can I say about THE WITCHING HOUSE that can even describe its brilliance? It almost had me as scared as I was when I read my favorite horror novel of all time, HELL HOUSE by Richard Matheson. The legends surrounding the Blevins House, the urban explorers, the house itself--the perfect set-up for what is, in my eyes, a classic horror tale. This tale does not rely on horror cliches to get the scares. It is genuine, bare bones horror that reaches out and grabs you.
Aric
Seventh Son by Orson Scott Card
We just finished reading this book for our book discussion group. Everyone loved the book and wants to read the other books in the series.
Laurice
All You Could Ask For by Mike Greenberg
3.75 stars. Excellent writing style. Loved how the storylines of the three main characters intertwined by the end.
Lynn W
The Improbability of Love by Hannah Rothschild
Fine art, exquisite food, intricate plots -- why did I not like this book more than three stars? Too many characters? Too much detail? Too decadent? My favorite chapter was the last, a five page epilogue. At least the loose ends were tied up.
Magi Evans
Murder on the Quai by Cara Black
First time I've read a book in this series. Now I want to read the rest.
Lynn
Astonish Me by Maggie Shipstead
Engaging and fast moving tale set in the world of professional ballet, a venue about which I knew nothing. Shipstead informs and guides the reader inside and then tells a wonderful tale about love, true love, and sacrifice. The best book I've read so far this year.
Summer
The Lemon Orchard by Luanne Rice
Set in a beautiful and captivating vicinity of Malibu, CA. Touching, intriguing, couldn't put it down.
Sybil
The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry by Rachel Joyce
I like this book very much and am now reading THE LOVE SONG OF MISS QUEENIE HENNESSY, which goes further in this story.
Kathie
Glass Sword by Victoria Aveyard
This is the sequel to THE RED QUEEN (which I loved). This sets the reader up for the next book, which I can't wait for! This is a YA series. Can't wait to see what happens to Mare in the next book.
Kathie
Where'd You Go, Bernadette? by Maria Semple
I really liked this book. A quick read. I found myself saying I'll read just one more page, then sleep and when I looked up 50 had gone by. Would make a great vacation or beach read, for those who don't want a typical beach read. Enjoy it!
Lori
Missing, Presumed by Susie Steiner
I was intrigued by the premise of MISSING, PRESUMED, and I was happy to have the opportunity to read an advance copy of the book. It did not disappoint. I couldn't put the book down. I liked learning about the case from various points of view and found the characters very believable. It was interesting to see the repercussions of the case on everyone involved. Although I guessed early on who the “bad guy” was, there was no way to have ever figured out what happened. I'm not sure whether or not I like that. Nothing happened predictably, and I appreciated that. I would be happy to read another book if it became part of a series, and I recommend the book to mystery, police and psychological thriller readers.
Ellen
The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
I feel this is Kristin Hannah's best book, and I have enjoyed many of her other books. The characters were so real. You really cared about them. The contrast between the two sisters showed how courage is the same but is expressed in different ways. I have read many books about WWII, but this is my favorite one.
kate donnelly
Greater Journey by David McCullough
I needed to use my brain a little, too many mysteries.
kate
The Girl Who Saved the King of Sweden by Jonas Jonasson and Rachel Willson-Broyles
I loved it. It was quirky, easy to read and intriguing.
Patti
The Girl From the Train by Irma Joubert
Rich history of WWII. Survival, love and loss.
Janet
Go Set a Watchman by Harper Lee
So beautifully written that I could "feel" the area, the confusion, the frustration and the struggles of this character determined to find reason in right from wrong! It was so hard to not read cover to cover in one sitting.
Tessa B C
A Passsage to India by E. M. Forster
This classic explores class differences and the clash of cultures. Every character seems to have a preconceived notion of how “the others” should behave (or have always acted), and each reacts based on these preconceived notions. Even the “good” characters fall victim to their own prejudices, frequently without realizing it. Friendships are broken, and even when a character realizes his/her mistake there seems no way to undo the damage.
CK
Mademoiselle Chanel by C. W. Gortner
I want to rush out and buy Chanel 5, and put on a black dress and pearls. I knew nothing about Coco except she designed my favorite style of jacket. I really enjoyed learning about her rise from poverty to the most influential couturier of the 20th century.
Loretta
The Winter Girl by Matt Marinovich
The book jacket said winter in the Hamptons, married couple investigate empty house next door, love, loneliness and desperation. I thought of Chris Knopf and Daniel Judson, two authors I enjoy very much. The book jacket should have said perversion, incest, torture and murder. It was awful.
Beverly
Truth or Die by James Patterson and Howard Roughan
Every book of James Patterson wants you to keep on reading and not put it down, which is the case with this book.
LINDA
Mojitos with Merry Men by Marianne Mancusi
I received this ARC in return for an honest review and this story is hilarious! Chrissie Hayward, a NYC fashion photographer, was never one for fairy-tales but when a mysterious gypsy tells that she's a gentle soul who'd tame an outlaw's thirst for revenge she doesn't believe the old woman. Then her crazy coworker has disappeared and she calls Chrissie's cell and says she's stuck in the future and seeks help from the gypsy! Back to the old lady she is told she must go the 12th century and get a drop of blood from the Holy Grail King Richard has, but the king is no where in sight and hasn't been heard from since he went to war. Now what is she supposed to do? Robin of Locksely has been duped by the woman he loves.
Jud
A Bitter Truth by Charles Todd
This is the first Bess Crawford book I've read and I will be going back to read the prior books. If you enjoy a mystery with depth but not a lot of graphic violence, pick this one up.
Marsha
In Dark Places by Peter Robinson
Robinson writes a terrific series about Inspector Banks and his co-workers in a well-plotted mystery surrounding a stolen tractor and blood found in an abandon building. How they put these mysteries together with their clever teammates makes for a gripping read.
Janice
Recipes for Love and Murder by Sally Andrew
Set in South Africa, this novel features the wonderful character, Tannie Maria, a widow who makes her living writing a combination advice/cooking column for a local publication. After corresponding with a woman who is asking for advice about her abusive husband, Tannie Maria's own memories of an abusive husband and her relief at his death are stirred, and make her especially concerned for this woman. When the same woman appears to have been murdered, Tannie Maria can't help getting involved in the investigation. With the food she cooks, the landscape surrounding her village of Ladismith, and the characters, the language is very descriptive. I will look forward to the next installment in this series.
Wendy
The Keeper of Lost Causes by Jussi Adler-Olsen
Highly recommended for fans of Stieg Larsson and Henning Mankell or any of the other Scandinavian noir writers. This is the first book in the Department Q Series. Department Q is Denmark's answer to what to do with unsolved cases. Carl Morck is just back at work after being shot by a gunman who killed one of his partners and made a quadriplegic of the other. He finds it hard to work with anyone else so he is put in charge of Department Q. He is grudgingly given an assistant, Assad, and the two of them work on finding out what happened five years ago to a female politician who disappeared from a ferry. The reader knows that the woman is still alive and being held in captivity. And so the tension builds.
LINDA
Cowboy Justice 12-Pack by Sabrina York, Susan Stoker, Elle James, Becky McGraw and others
I was given this one book of the Cowboy Justice 12-Pack of multiple authors by Sabrina York and loved Claire and Charlie's story! Claire Silver had turned down Dustin's numerous proposals, even tried to live in the big city, but she was a country girl at heart. Besides, there was no spark between her and Dustin and at twenty she thought she had plenty of time to find the man of her dreams. Now, with her twenty-fifth birthday close she still had yet to find him. When she headed back home to Snake Gully her friend warned her that she was speeding. Before she could take her foot away there appeared flashing red and blue lights in her rear view mirror.As the new sheriff, Charlie Dunham pulled over his first speeder. He had served in Iraq.
Betty
Turn On The Light So I Can Hear by Teri Kanefield
The best thing about this book was the title. Sorry.
Jan Zahrly
Alligator Candy by David Kushner
This review is not objective. David Kushner wrote this memoir about his older brother who died when Kushner was 4 years old. I was 22 when my younger sister died so this book was very poignant and meaningful for me. All of us who have a sibling die too early carry it with us forever. Many years after his brother's death, Kushner, a noted author, decided to investigate his brother's death and found so many things that he did not know or realize at the time of the death. This book will be meaningful to anyone who has lost a dear person too soon. If you are lucky enough to never experience this, I don't know if the book will be valuable to you. I wish I had this book 40 years ago.
LINDA
Bombshell by Catherine Coulter
I won this print and agreed to give it an honest review. This is my first time reviewing Ms. Coulter and I hope to review many more! FBI Agent Griffin Hammersmith was recruited by Dillon Savich to join his unit in Washington as he saw something special in him. Griffin had plans to visit his sister who is a student at Stanislaus School of Music in Maestro, Virginia, but before he can get there he gets a call that Delsey had been attacked and is in the hospital. Delsey has always been a trouble magnet and she was the butt of the family joke that she couldn't stay out of trouble even if she did the right thing. Once at the hospital, after he saw that she was asleep he decided to get some answers as to who attacked her...
Laurice
The Railwayman's Wife by Ashley Hay
I loved it!
Gina
A Mother's Reckoning: Living in the Aftermath of Tragedy by Sue Klebold
This book is the soul-searching account of the mother of Dylan Klebold, one of the two Columbine High murderers. I did not think I would be interested but I could not put it down. Sue works through the stages of grief in this gripping narrative. She goes from denial to bargaining to uneasy acceptance. I found her insights into people and teens thought-provoking.
Gina
Kick Kennedy:The Charmed Life and Tragic Death of the Favorite Kennedy Daughter by Barbara Leaming
This biography of the most charming and most doomed of the Kennedy girls is a page-turner. The author spoke to many contemporaries of Kick who recalled the events of her stay in England.
Her love life is analyzed. The strain on her relationship with Rose Kennedy is detailed. I recommend this one.
Debbie
The Girl from the Paradise Ballroom by Alison Love
World War II stories run the gamut of tragic and bittersweet. THE GIRL FROM THE PARADISE BALLROOM explores both emotions as the reader witnesses the years 1937 to 1947 for Olivia and Antonio. Alison Love presents a world in turmoil as Hitler and Mussolini march through Europe in a quest to control the world. In London, Olivia, a fabulous tango dancer, struggles to survive in her job as a ballroom hostess, while Antonio battles poverty in providing for his family. Olivia meets and marries a wealthy writer and begins a privileged existence, and Antonio sings his way into a better life. Then the war escalates and England decides to round up those nasty Italians and transport them to Australia or Canada. Alison Love creates a remarkable story.
Sandy
We Are Not Ourselves by Matthew Thomas
I absolutely loved this book!! Didn't care for it in the beginning, but I stuck with it and I am glad I did. Born in 1941 in Woodside, Queen, Eileen Tumilty is raised playing caretaker to her drinking Irish parents and dreaming of a better life away from her turbulent upbringing. When Eileen marries Ed Leary, a handsome and serious scientist unlike any man she ever grew up with, she believes he'll deliver her to the cosmopolitan existence she desires. But she quickly discovers Ed doesn't aspire to the same stakes in the American dream.
Mary Lou
The Sixth Station by Linda Stasi
This book was okay. Not really my kind of book, and it didn’t make a lot of sense along the way. It was a vehicle to showcase the main character, and granted, that main character was terrific. I just couldn’t see the point in some of the things that had to happen, like the climb up the mountain to the castle, to do...what? Get shot at? What was in the castle that they were looking for to solve the main riddle of the book? It felt contrived. The plot was pretty hard to follow. The writing was good enough and the main character interesting enough that I stayed with it to the end. But I don’t think I’ll read a sequel if one comes out. And the way it was left there will probably be a sequel.
Kelli
Annabel Lee by Mike Nappa
I loved this book! Interesting characters you care about, crisp, witty dialogue. I was actually thinking about the characters even while I was not reading the book. Highly recommend.
Pam Straight
The Loney by Andrew Michael Hurley
While parts of this book were extremely suspenseful, I did not really enjoy it. The ending was very anticlimactic to me.
Bonnie
In Wilderness by Diane Thomas
Almost 5 stars. Beautiful writing, luminous setting, well-crafted characters and a unique story make this an outstanding read.
Dayle
Stones Into Schools by Greg Mortenson
One gets into his journey to a secluded northeast corner of Afghanistan where he builds several schools. It is a good read. Also would suggest reading his insightful book, THREE CUPS OF TEA.
Rosemary
The Widow by Fiona Barton
After her husband is killed by falling under a bus, Jean is besieged by TV and newspaper reporters. Her husband had been accused of abduction a 2-1/2 year old girl and everyone wants to know the truth. Did he do it? Where is she? Does Jean even know the truth? An intense story with plot twists and turns that will keep you reading until those questions are answered!
Barbara
Brain on Fire by Susannah Cahalan
The title turned me off. I didn't want to read this book. I was very resistant until a quarter of a way through this book -- then I was hooked.
Marilyn
Brooklyn by Colm Toibin
A well-written coming-of-age novel about an Irish girl immigrating to the U.S.A.
Sharon
All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr
This was a wonderful story and very original. The short chapters alternating between the two main characters made it very engaging and quick to read although it was over 500 pages.
LINDA
Fighter Daddy by Marci Fawn
I was given this ARC in exchange for an honest review, and Raina and Lee stole my heart! Raina Feston made a big mistake trusting her boyfriend with him loaning her money, and she never read the fine print on the contract. How was she supposed to know he was a mob boss? Ricky was stalking her and didn't want to let his property go. He said it wasn't over between them. Then her boss hired a guy she had a crush on in high school. She remembered he never showed up to take her to the prom, so why did he still make her knees weak? Lee Mason was kicked out of the Marines for saving the lives of school kids in Iraq. Then he fought in the underground MMA. He never took anything from anyone, including his opponents.
Sharon
The Cellist of Sarajevo by Steven Galloway
Hard to rate this book as it is a sad, sad story and I did not want to keep reading. However, it is well written, using the device of three narrators (although the book jacket says four, one does not speak, nor do we hear his thoughts) who tell of the siege of Sarajevo and how the people of that city live and die. Having been in Pigeon Square, the scene of the man "fishing" for pigeons to feed his family was especially poignant.
Lynn W
The Storied Life of A. J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin
A grieving widower finds a two-year-old girl in his bookstore with a note "bequeathing" Maya to him. A. J. Googles all he needs to know to rear his newly-found daughter and embarks on a marvelous new life. I really liked this book, especially the fully-realized characters.
Mary Lou
All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr
I finished ALL THE LIGHT WE CANNOT SEE by Doerr. As I said to the my girlfriends on Facebook, the first 400 or so pages were a complete slog. Depressing and stark. Gorgeously written though. Short chapters going back and forth among a few key characters. The descriptions of the towns, the sea, the war, the living conditions were so vibrant and tangible. The character development was intense, yet subtle at the same time. I tried this one on Audible a while back and could not get through it, it was so dark and depressing. I was able to finish the hard copy, but only by reading a little each day, which goes against the way I normally read a good book.
Bev
In Wilderness by Diane Thomas
Winter 1966 in an isolated wilderness in Georgia's Appalachian Mountains. Danny, 20, is a PTSD veteran traumatized by experiences in Vietnam and life experiences thereafter, existing in the wilderness in a near feral state. I found at times I almost couldn't handle the intense, vivid, prose and the vehement emotions. But, I couldn't put it down. heartbreaking, haunting, hypnotic.
Mistie
Moloka'i by Alan Brennert
Heartwarming and heartbreaking at the same time. This was a beautiful introduction to a part of America's history with which I was unfamiliar.
LINDA
The Omega Team: Tough Target by Jordan Dane
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review, and I love the Omega Team's story! Someone is singling out members of the team and they suspect it had to do with death of Cuban drug lord Borrego. It must be his daughter who sought revenge and she had sneaked into the country illegally with her twin body guards. Camila Borrego was as deadly and vicious as father and had a long memory and sought revenge to save face. Rafael Madero is a part of the team and never thought he'd find love again after his wife and daughter were slaughtered, but fate smiled on him and put Jacqi in his life. Sam Rafferty is a former Navy SEAL and was part of the Omega Team. He got the text to go ground as someone was taking the members out.
Judy O.
Clawback by J. A. Jance
Ali Reynolds finds herself deep inside a double-murder case that is related to a Ponzi scheme. Lots of use of modern technology helped catch the perpetrators. I enjoyed this book.
Noelle
Beckon by Tom Pawlik
This intriguing premise poses the question - what would you do for immortality? Clever dialogue, a compelling setting and three dimensional characters, some lovable, some diabolical, give this novel depth and spirit. Old mysteries and contemporary questions collide when three separate people are drawn against their will to the town of Beckon, Wyoming which boasts: You are not here by accident. An imaginative page-turner!
LINDA
Know Your Beholder by Adam Rapp
I won this book and agreed to give it an honest review. At times the book was boring until Francis Falbo of Pollard, Illinois finally came down from his attic retreat. He is still recovering from his mother's death, his ex-wife's desertion, and the break up of his rock band. He hasn't showered and still wore the ratty robe plus the slippers his ex had given him for a present for nine days and believes they are his "uniform of default". His dad remarried and left him his childhood home that he turned into apartments and rented out. He is in his mid-thirties and became entangled in the lives of his renters, who are eccentric. Disastrous and hilarious, especially two of the tenants!
Jan Zahrly
Alligator Candy by David Kushner
A loving memoir about his older brother who was abducted and killed 40 years ago.
LINDA
The Book of Stone by Jonathan Papernick
I won this book and agreed to give it an honest review. Matthew Stone is headed for disaster as his father, a judge distant in his life now, but the judge's death leaves him reeling when he sobers up to realize that he was all alone except for his only friend. He struggled to find out he inherited a dark legacy from a gangster grandfather and a disgraced father. He turns to the judge's books for comfort, but it only leads him to a group of religious extremists, and the FBI asks for assistance to stop the group's plot.
Marsha
The Last Mile by David Baldacci
Not quite up to his usual exciting novels but well-plotted. Rather convoluted and not easy to follow. Halfway through the novel you lose interest in the outcome.
Brady
Lab Girl by Hope Jahren
This non-fiction book is, really, a memoir or autobiography as they used to be called about a lady who loves trees and plants and has spent her adult life studying them. She is a bona fide scientist on tenure and just loves her job. The material is certainly not "dry" and filled with interesting stuff about trees and plants, but even more so about her life. Her "starving years" while getting established were something else, and the details are interesting. It sounded to me like she was a hippie-type person smoking weed in her younger years and as she wizened her life became much more stable and meaningful. After she got married, her life blossomed. After she had a child, her life exploded.
Mary Lou
The Friends We Keep by Susan Mallery
Oh, I loved this book. It just drew me in and was such a happy, warm experience. A real break from reality - the characters were well drawn, the plot was interesting, it was just a wonderful read. Highly recommended if a vacation from crazy life is what the doctor ordered.
Debbie
Murder at Lambswool Farm by Sally Goldenbaum
Sally Goldenbaum writes a delightful book about good food, friendship, love, and a caring community. The weather and climate of this seaside town enhance the story, as well as the joy of knitting and wonderful food draw the women together to cement the story. I love that Sally Goldenbaum inserts a roster of the book's characters and wish that more authors would follow this practice. The Endicotts (Ben and Nell) seem too good to be real people. What couple would feed and entertain neighbors every Friday? And isn't Birdie a character? She must be nearing 90 and is still as spry as a young girl. I enjoyed the chance to meet this lovely cast of characters and to bask in the sunlight of this magical town that encounters mayhem.
Lonnie
The Storyteller by Jodi Picoult
Good read but very depressing. Had to read a little, then go do something uplifting so as not to fall into a depression over the book! It is a story we all need to remember though.
Francisca E B
The Kitchen House by Kathleen Grissom
This is a solid debut work of historical fiction. A young Irish orphan is indentured to pay her parents’ debt, living and working alongside the slaves in the kitchen house of a Virginia plantation. I can certainly see why this has become so popular with book clubs. It has an interesting basic storyline, some tension-filled scenes, and complex relationships between characters. However, it’s not the most well-written book. Still, it held my attention and was a fairly quick read.
Nadine
The Sympathizer by Viet Thanh Nguyen
It's a Pulitzer Prize winner, so that's what enticed me to read this book and I am so glad I did. The writing is superb with well-constructed long paragraphs, which were a joy to read, but more importantly, it makes you think. Because it is written as a confession, you go directly into introspective thought and you feel the shock of the identity of one person (not spoiling it!) as I squeaked aloud at that point. Someday I want to reread this novel as there is depth and information I did not appreciate from the first third of the work that becomes important in the last third.
SUSAN
The Marriage of Opposites by Alice Hoffman
Historical fiction set in the 1800s on the island of St. Thomas about the family of the artist Pissarro.
Patricia
The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins
Really got involved in this book. All of the characters are flawed in some way, which makes it so interesting. I liken this book to GONE GIRL but with a better ending, in my opinion.
Fran
In My Sister's Country by Lise Haines
A short, quick read about a dysfunctional family. It was interesting, but in many ways sad to see sisters who had a relationship like theirs.
Gretchen
Fool Me Once by Harlan Coben
Excellent. A book that you can't put down!!!!
Gretchen
The Nest by Cynthia D'Aprix Sweeney
A sure sign that it wasn't getting to me was that it took much longer than usual for me to finish it.
Phyllis
'Til Death Do Us Part by Amanda Quick
Her books are like warm sun shining through a window - they are always an enjoyable light read with a little suspense, humor and romance. 'TIL DEATH DO US PART did not disappoint me.
Phyllis
Jane Steele by Lyndsay Faye
Jane Steele is a survivor in Victorian days; she's funny, adaptable, caring...and a murderess. Lyndsay Faye has created a novel full of intriguing characters, lots of twists, a little humor, dark plots and romance. It all comes together making for some very enjoyable reading.
Phyllis
China Rich Girlfriend by Kevin Kwan
Like CRAZY RICH ASIANS, this sequel is a fun look into the lives of China's uber rich with lots of excessive shopping and manipulative ways to outdo each other and/or save face. It makes for a very fun summer read.
Phyllis
Uprooted by Naomi Novik
Wonderfully created world of fantasy with a strong heroine, sorcerers, kingdoms and then there is 'The Wood'. The imagery and character development is great; the story moves fast with humor, suspense, horror and a touch of romance.
Debra
Kurinji Flowers by Clare Flynn
A great read with powerful characters. Ginny, the main character was abused and humiliated as a young girl. She leaves her home and marries a man who takes her to live in India. India was under British rule and prejudices abounded. She finds herself falling in love with Indian gentleman...I won't spoil the rest. The description of the landscapes and people are so riveting. I laughed, cried, and fell in love.This was a free book -- I'm amazed!
Jan
The Defender by Adrienne Giordano
I had not read a Harlequin Romance book in 40 or 50 years, and was dismayed when this showed up in my mailbox. But then I checked, and sure enough, I had entered the drawing from Goodreads. It was better than I expected. The story was reasonable, but I had to put it aside every third page or so. Too much panting, secret desiring of the body under the clothes, too much lust. When I got to the end, I realized why I don't read this stuff. The author makes the lead character, a highly respected defense attorney, a silly, simpering fool. She wears spike heels so she can't run in the grass and follows her own lead to solve the problem (ignoring that she's putting her family, client and herself at risk). Why do authors write such degrading stuff?
Robin Mckay
Conflicting Webs by Darlene Quinn
CONFLICTING WEBS is filled with all manner of family drama, tragedy and long-held anger, but through it all is the thread of forgiveness and acceptance, love and strength. It is a very poignant book as it brings to light the damage a family can do to itself and the healing grace of love.
Audrey
The Likeness by Tana French
This is a new author for me. I read her first book, IN THE WOODS, but I must say I liked this one even more It's a great book with wonderful, colorful characters. I am ordering the next in the series because I enjoyed it so much.
