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March 29, 2019 - April 12, 2019

This contest period's winners were Candace B., Jane S. and Jean V., who each received a copy of SOMEONE KNOWS by Lisa Scottoline and SAVE ME THE PLUMS: My Gourmet Memoir by Ruth Reichl.

 

Elizabeth
The Child Finder by Rene Denfeld

4
In Rene Denfeld’s THE CHILD FINDER, Naomi is known for her ability to find children, sometimes dead but more often alive. She, herself, escaped something when she was a child, something she forgets, and was subsequently raised in a foster home, with her foster brother, Jerome. That is one of the mysteries: what does Naomi forget? The main mystery of THE CHILD FINDER, though, involves Madison, who was lost in the woods when she was 5-years-old. It is now three years later. Chapters alternate: mostly Denfeld concentrates on Naomi’s search for Madison and the present state of Madison. But two other stories are also going on: Naomi’s finding a missing baby whose mother is in jail for her murder and Naomi’s relationship with Jerome.

Gladys
Snow Angel Cove by RaeAnne Thayne

5
Double disasters introduce this totally delicious Christmas story! Delightful five-year-old! Dedicated mother! Determinedly ambitious hero! Heart-warming dialog! RaeAnne doesn't miss a beat in bringing you a delectable December love story!

Thomas
Jar of Hearts by Jennifer Hillier

2
A very good book to read.

Thomas
The Curse of the Misty Wayfair by Jaime Jo Wright

4
Very good book to read. I really enjoyed it.

Nancy
Fogbound by Joseph T. Klempner

4
I had not heard of this author before and was pleasantly surprised by how good this book was. It grabbed my attention from the beginning, kind of slowed down a bit in the middle, but I could hardly wait to see how it would end. I will definitely read some of his other books and will recommend FOGBOUND to my book club.

Debbie
Connections in Death by J. D. Robb

4
I love this series. It's set in the future in New York. Eve Dallas is a lieutenant at NYPD. I didn't give this my normal 5-star rating as I felt the person who committed the crime was exposed too soon. I enjoy the futuristic life displayed in these books and the romance between Dallas and Roarke. I have read every book in this series and will continue to do so.

Karen
Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens

5
I wanted to cancel my date to finish book. Kya is an inspiration to keep pushing on no matter what.

Nancy
Mrs. Everything by Jennifer Weiner

3
One of my favorite authors but definitely not one of my favorite of her books!

Sandra
PI on a Hot Tin Roof (Talba Wallkace #4) by Julie Smith

5
Great read! First one by this author, but not the last. Interesting locale, quirky characters and a plot with twists and turns.

Sandra
Suicide Forest by Jeremy Bates

5
Fictional account of an actual place where people commit suicide. Spooky.

dianne
A Good Enough Mother by Bev Thomas

3
The beginning of the book started out interesting, and I thought I was really going to like it a lot. It turned out to be a story that (in my humble opinion) would have been better suited as a short story or novella. The main character is a psychotherapist, who has many years of experience. However, there has been a problem in her own life that is causing her a lot of pain, and has to do with one of her adult children.This impacts negatively on her work, especially when she gets a new client, who resembles her son. I was disappointed in how the story ended.

Karen
The Woman Inside by E. G. Scott

5
This book was amazing. It kept me guessing. What a roller-coaster ride. It’s a one of a kind book. So many twists and turns. I’m going to recommend it to my book club. I could not put it down, but then I didn’t want to read it too fast. I didn’t want it to end.

Laurie
The Library of Lost and Found by Phaedra Patrick

5
I love novels set in libraries with strong characters! THE LIBRARY OF LOST AND FOUND by Phaedra Patrick is another beautiful, memorable family saga that I can fully recommend.

Julie
Laurentian Divide by Sarah Stonich

5
Stonich is a hidden away treasure. She writes so beautifully and is a master at creating characters you won’t soon forget. This is a loose sequel to her previous VACATIONLAND, which I feel should have won a major book award, but you can read LAURENTIAN DIVIDE as a stand-alone; it’s just richer if you read VACATIONLAND first.

Jeanne
One Thousand White Wonen by Jim Fergus

4
Very interesting story about the Cheyenne Indians and gives a glimpse into their culture.

Elizabeth
Educated by Tara Westover

4
Very interesting. A little long.

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

4
A look at the 1920s world of art and art collecting in Paris and Philadelphia, pivoting around Henri Matisse and Gertrude Stein's salon. When love leads Paulien Mertens astray and her family essentially disowns her, the wealthy young woman must fend for herself. Art is her salvation: she uses her knowledge of art to secure a job helping a wealthy collector amass a collection to create a museum. All the while, Paulien, now going by Vivienne, seeks to avoid anyone who knew her in her former life, including in particular her former fiancee, aka a con man who swindled her family and many friends out of their fortunes. Love, unrequited and reciprocated, will complicate matters. Determination wins in the end.

Jayme
The Enchanted April by Elizabeth Von Arnim

5
I have found myself lately reading books published in the early 20th century and I think this book finally helped me to realize why. There isn't anything provocative, gritty, or flagrantly nasty in this story that I have found lately in many contemporary fiction novels that I have recently read. Von Arnim has written an "enchanting" story about the development of friendships, the many stages of love, and the awakening of one’s true self. Set in a beautiful castle on the coast of Italy, our four ladies will do what we all secretly wish to - reacquaint ourselves with joy. Lovely.

Jayme
True Grit by Charles Portis

4
I needed to read a western for a challenge that I am in and several challenge mates had read it and liked it, so why not. This was a great read. I adored the character of Mattie Ross. She was full of spit and vinegar and I found it interesting that she was searching for someone with true grit to help her find the guy who killed her dad, but she really was the one with the "true grit." My only problem was that I kept seeing John Wayne as Rooster Cogburn, so I really couldn't create my own character. Not a serious problem, but it did deflect from the story. Highly recommend.

Simonne
Forty Autumns by Nina Willner

3
Fascinating first person account of an East German family after WWII including one defector, the rise, and ultimate fall of the Berlin Wall. Loaded with photographs, this is a story of one family’s faith and perseverance.

Richard N B
The Incredible Journey by Sheila Burnford

4
Three beloved family pets – a young Labrador, an aged bull terrier, and a Siamese cat – head home across 300 miles of wooded and mostly uninhabited territory in Ontario, Canada. I read it long ago with my children. Now I’m sharing the book with my grandson. It’s a wonderful tale of adventure, friendship, loyalty, teamwork, and kindness.

Annmarie
A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith

5
A timeless coming-of-age story set in New York. If you haven't read it - read it now. If you have read it - read it again !

Kim
Annie Freeman’s Fabulous Traveling Funeral by Kris Radish

3
Our book group was somewhat divided regarding how much we liked the book. Everyone loved the story and the characters. Some of us felt the characters could have been more developed. The constant overflow of emotion was a bit much for some of us. It is a good beach read.

Sharon
Small Mercies by Eddie Joyce

3
A post-911 family saga. An interesting look at the life of first responders before, during and after 9/11.

Muriel
The Tubman Command by Elizabeth Cobbs

5
I was familiar with Harriet Tubman’s connection with and dedication to helping slaves on the Underground Railroad but not aware of her help to the Union soldiers as a spy. I love historical fiction that really makes a person come alive such as this book did. Through Harriet’s interactions with other characters in the book and her words of frustrations and doubts at times she comes across not only as a very heroic lady but a very human one. Elizabeth Cobbs writes her book in a way that lends authenticity to what she is saying even though a reader knows parts have been fictionalized. I like the way she started each chapter with an epigram that was drawn from original documents. The book was intriguing and hard to put down.

Marilyn
The Clockmaker’s Daughter by Kate Morton

3
Have always enjoyed this author’s work and how she tells a house’s story along with the people who lived there. Didn’t care for the unreliable ghost who narrated parts of the story. Characters like Leonard seemed to have little purpose in the narrative. Like a ghost, the story flits around.

Debra
Angle of Repose by Wallace Stegner

5
Excellently composed Pulitzer Prize winner.

Jeanna
The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides

5
I highly recommend this book! This book is absolutely captivating, suspenseful, and intriguing. I devoured it quickly! This book is the very definition of a page-turner. This was a fully absorbing thriller that I literally could not put down or stop thinking about. Psychological suspense is my favorite genre and books like this one are exactly the reason why! I read a lot of psychological thrillers/suspense novels. I have a tendency to suspect every single character that appears in a thriller. I am often not as surprised as others are when authors throw in twists and turns, or when the perpetrator is finally revealed. I did not see the end coming in this book which was awesome! Can't wait to read more from him!

Jill
Trail of Broken Wings by Sejal Badani

4
I really enjoyed this book about an Indian family that moves to America. The father falls into a coma and the three daughters and mother struggle with hopes and fears of his survival. Buried secrets of the family rise and the mother and her daughters each have to come to terms with the burden of shame that these secrets have unveiled. I’ve enjoyed other books by this author as well.

Dianna
The Martin Chronicles by John Fried

3
A coming-of-age story told by Martin Kelso from 6th grade through high school, growing up in the 1980s Manhattan. A seemingly typical teenage timeline, but life throws Martin a few curveballs along the way. We all make choices in life, some good and some just wrong, and then “suffer” the consequences of those choices. But Martin somehow comes out in the end not broken, only a little bent. I did enjoy the story as it brought me back to my teenage years. 3.5 stars.

Mary
Cold Sassy Tree by Olive Ann Burns

3
Interesting reading but I didn't care for the colloquial language.

Emily
The Trial of Lizzie Borden by Cara Robertson

4
A true story of the Borden trial. Thoroughly researched and well written by a woman who has a JD from Stanford Law School I was particularly taken aback by the way in which the views of the female gender colored the trial. For example, "Menstruation, according to medical experts, made women vulnerable to criminal impulses".

Melanie
See You in the Piazza by Frances Mayes

4
Well-written, travel narrative ode to some less well known areas of Italy and their foods. Makes me want to take a year and wander the country...if only I could!

Emily
Fly Girls by Keith O'Brien

4
Keith O'Brien, a former reporter for the Boston Globe, presents a thoroughly-researched account of five of the daring American who defied the odds to fly and race airplanes during the 1920s and 1930s. As a retired American history teacher, I thoroughly enjoyed this historical gem.

Susan
Educated by Tara Westover

5
Loved this book. It's hard to believe it's a true story and people live this kind of life. Your heartstrings are really touched by the heroine.

Sheila
Educated by Tara Westover

5
Powerful but disturbing. A must-read.

Sheila
The Flight Attendant by Chris Bohjalian

3
Although a fun read, it was not up to what I expect from this author, in character development and story detail.

Betty
The Woman in Cabin 10 by Ruth Ware

3
This book started off at a terrific pace and then gradually slowed down to a crawl. It, sadly, did not live up to its hype -- for me, at any rate.

Kathy
The American Agent by Jacqueline Winspear

4
Not as compelling as many of hers. I had to work a bit to keep reading. Then ending is satisfying but not a dazzler.

Sheila
My Sister, the Serial Killer by Oyinkan Braithwaite

5
It's a thriller that leaves you thinking about the characters long after you have finished.

pat
Becoming by Michelle Obama

5
An amazing memoir which chronicles her life growing up in Chicago with wonderful parents and brother. She shares her journey to college and law school and early law career. Meeting Barach Obama does change her life as she reconsiders her life as a lawyer. We go through their professional choices that lead to politics. Life in the White House is chronicled and gives an inside look into their 8 years. Wow, it was a wonderful reading experience and educational!

Melanie
The Overstory by Richard Powers

5
Beautifully written, almost like poetry. It was occasionally hard to follow, as it switches back and forth among characters, but the writing was so good it pulled me along.

Tracey
Educated by Tara Westover

5
A compelling, heart-wrenching memoir. Tara's story reminded me of THE GLASS CASTLE by Jeannette Walls. It is well written and ultimately uplifting.

Alice
I’ll Be Your Blue Sky by Marisa de los Santos

5
Great book club book. Lots to explore.

Karen
Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng

5
I loved the characters in this book. Bittersweet ending.

Louise
Educated by Tara Westover

5
This memoir is very compelling as it highlights so many subjects: education, mental illness, physical and emotional abuse, and politics. It also shows an education is not just books, but life experiences: the good, bad and the ugly. Tara grew up in a large family dominated by religion, by her father's survivalist beliefs that the government was evil, and was not allowed to attend school. Tara learns by working with her family, observation and self determination to have an education.

Rosemary
Disappeared by Jerry Radford

5
The lights go off just before the introduction of the Chickahominy College basketball team enters for the championship game. When the lights come back on the star of the team is missing. He's not in the locker room, the field house or even on campus. Security tapes of the area don't spot him and outside shots don't help due to the massive snow storm blanketing the area. Where did he go, where is he, what happened and why? An interesting mystery from a local Virginia writer who has begun to make a name for himself.

Joan
The Last Thing You Surrender by Leonard Pitts, Jr.

5
Set in 1941 - 45, the story is pertinent in today’s world as well. It is gut-wrenching as well as heartbreaking but tells its story so beautifully. Considering the racial tensions of that time period, the ending was as hopeful as it could be. This is my fifth Pitt’s book and one of his very best (just inching out FREEMAN). But like FREEMAN, these two books serve as a history or civics lesson that so many of us never learned in school. They are brutally honest and each one is a gem unto itself. I haven’t stayed up all night to finish a book in eons!

Joan
Y is for Yesterday by Sue Grafton

5
The title Y IS FOR YESTERDAY is strange because it seems just like yesterday that I read her first book A IS FOR ALIBI. Yet, 25 books later Kinsey Milhone is the same witty, smart detective I first met in the first book. Sadly, knowing this was the last book I realized how much I will miss both Kinsey and Sue Grafton. It’s not easy to keep a series interesting, entertaining and fun to read. Ms. Grafton had a true gift and I thank her for sharing it with all of us.

Joan
Waking Up White by Debby Irving

5
Wow! What an eye-opener. I was familiar with the term White Privilege, but never truly saw it for what it was till our book club read this book. We are mostly retired educators and, like Ms. Irving, thought we were enlightened. How wrong we were. For me, this book is the start of a more enlightened way of interacting.

Sandy
The Night Sister by Jennifer McMahon

4
Very weird book! The Tower Motel was once a thriving attraction of rural Vermont. Today it lies in disrepair, alive only in the memory of the three women - Amy, Piper, and Piper's kid sister, Margot - who played there as children. The loved exploring the abandoned rooms until the day their innocent games uncovered something dark and twisted that ruined their friendship forever. Now Amy stands accused of committing a horrific crime and the only hint as to her motives is a hasty message that forces Piper and Margot to revisit the motel's past and the fate of two sisters who lived there in its heyday. Sylvie Slater had dreams of running off to Hollywood. Each believed the other to be something truly monstrous. You have to read this one.

Patricia
When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi

5
Deeply moving true story of a neurologist that gets cancer. Sad, but for some reason comforting, too. Paul Kalanithi wrote his own story. This book makes you stop and think about your own mortality.

Becky
Desolation Mountain by William Kent Krueger

5
I have not read any of Krueger’s Cork O’Conner mysteries, but I am a huge fan of ORDINARY GRACE. DESOLATION MOUNTAIN did not disappoint. The characters were refined and true to character as the book progressed. The area of Minnesota was so clearly utilized it was almost a character. The plight of the Ojibway Indians and their reservation was clear even though really not a pivotal part of the plot. The mystery leaked out slowly, just enough to keep my interest and the menacing terror growing. Although there were many deaths, this was not a gruesome book. There is minimal foul language. The plot and all its permutations were neatly concluded in a satisfying way. A very good mystery.

Elizabeth
Girl Waits With Gun by Amy Stewart

4
I liked the book. These sisters were gutsy! The writing had a whimsical note that was different and refreshing. I would love to learn more about the actual historical figures.

Maribel
Beartown by Fredrik Backman

4
BEARTOWN is a well-written novel with beautiful characters and very specific details of the place that allows us to feel connected to the events of the matter. The title is very consistent with the novel because it develops in a small town with that name. The plot is strong but contained and detailed in a natural and human way. Tells the story of the small town, its citizens and what unites and separates them as a community. The sport is their strong union but it is also their only dependence and their only hope. People either related to the sport or not, and the one who is not is not an important figure in the game.The plot becomes sensitive when the daughter of the leader of the team is raped by one of the members of the team.

Patricia
Finding Dorothy by Elizabeth Letts

4
If you enjoyed "The Wizard of Oz", this story is about the author and how he came to write this. It tells about his family and wife, and how his wife came to make sure the story was protected after his death. It tells about Judy Garland and her role.

Jud
Never Go Back by Lee Child

5
One of the best of the Reacher series.

Donna
Lake Success by Gary Shteyngart

3
A multi-millionaire hedge fund broker leaves his wife and newly diagnosed autistic son to seek out his old college girlfriend. He takes a long bus trip and arrives at his destination with no money or self respect.

Betty
We Hope for Better Things by Erin Bartels

5
A beautiful story of three generations of remarkable women and the men they love. Using the settings of the Michigan Underground Railroad during the Civil War and the violent Detroit riots of the 1960s, two interracial couples embrace love in spite of society’s racism.

Lori
The Library Book by Susan Orlean

5
The Central Library in California caught on fire. The book is so wonderful telling about the first women to head a library to finding who set the fire. I loved learning the way libraries were run back in the 30-60s. If you love books and the library you must read this.

Louise
Missing Pieces by Susan Clayton-Goldner

5
One of the best books I’ve read in awhile! A beautifully-told story based on the author’s own relationship with her estranged father. You won’t want to put it down.

Claire
Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens

4
We read this in my book club last month and everyone loved it! It is truly amazing how a young girl could live like that and become so knowledgeable with help from a friend. The ending was a shock but very understandable.

Helen
Becoming by Michelle Obama

4
A fascinating memoir of America's First Lady!

Thomas
Wild Card by Stuart Woods

5
Excellent book. Really enjoyed reading it.

Charlene
Muse of Nightmares by Laini Taylor

5
We start off with some new characters, Kora and Nova, who grow on you rather quickly (or is that just Taylor's writing?) and eventually play very important roles down the line. And throughout the entirety of the book, we are constantly reliving the past, how the characters are feeling, the decisions that were made as a result of personal catastrophe, about questions and mysteries that haven't been uncovered from the past, about values and morals, about moving forward and living. And Taylor adds humor in the sparse bits here and there, making sure no character gets left behind and shows that despite their previous actions, people can and do change. Thyon is a great example and a cute one at that.

Mary
Beautiful Exiles by Meg Waite Clayton

4
The subject of this novel is the relationship between Ernest Hemingway and his third wife, Martha Gellhorn. She has a strong career as a writer and war reporter when she marries Hemingway who is at least twenty years older. The story is told from Gellhorn’s point of view and portrays her struggles with sexism in her career and Hemingway’s expectations that she will be a traditional wife.

Melissa
Southernmost by Silas House

5
Great book - simple read but story with depth. Good for book clubs.

Nancy
Pretending to Dance by Diane Chamberlain

5
Great story!! I love the diverse characters and all around discrimination! I actually went to school near there!!

Jean
Mountolive by Lawrence Durrell

1
I wanted to read this book after watching "The Durrells in Corfu" on PBS. Lawrence helped support his family by writing novels which were, when published, well reviewed. His writing style did not appeal to me. The book is dense and wordy, packed with multi-syllabic adjectives and overly detailed descriptions of people and places. The characters all suffer from serious flaws. Friendships are abandoned regularly. The plot proceeds slowly and the ending is incomplete as this is the third book in a series of four. Much plot remains unresolved. This is despite the cover blurb saying the book could be read without knowledge of the earlier two. French words are inserted often without any translation making the meaning hard to discern.

Donna
When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi

5
This book was selected by the hostess of my book club or I never would have read it. I was emotionally wrung out after reading the author's account of his experience after his diagnosis of lung cancer. I learned so much about what the patient endures that was unknown to me and have a greater awareness and understanding of this horrific disease and how it affects all involved.

Gladys
The Single Dad's Proposal by Karin Blaine

4
Child life specialist Summer leaves Boston for a nearby island because of a unhappy romantic experience. Taking a job caring for handicapped children on the island she becomes enamored by a doctor who is the father of one of her patients. The doctor is single but interested only in his child, not finding romance. Getting his attention, let along winning his interest, proves a difficult problem.

Amanda
The Girl He Used To Know by Tracey Garvis Graves

5
A great book!

Rebecca
Bad Blood by John Carreyrou

5
This book is proof that often the truth is even crazier than fiction! Carreyrou compiles all the information he gathered and reported on Theranos and Elizabeth Holmes in this shocking, thought-provoking story about technology, ethics, and greed.

Ilene
Courtney's War by Wilbur Smith

5
The novel begins in Paris before the start of WWII. Saffron Courtney and Gerhard von Meerbach are lovers, but there is a problem. Gerhard is called back to Germany, where he is a fighter pilot, to fight a war he doesn’t believe in for a Fuhrer he despises. Saffron becomes a driver for the allies, works her way up as Britain’s Special Operations Executive (SOE), and is preparing to slip into Belgium in 1942 to identify the SOE agent who has betrayed us. Meanwhile Gerhard becomes a Luftwaffe pilot and endures the misery of the Battle of Stalingrad. We see how each has endured so much hardship and how they deal with it. Great character studies. What a wonderful thriller. Thank you Simon & Schuster for the chance to read it.

Gladys
Nurse to Forever Mom by Susan Carlisle

4
Now a single dad, the founder of an island clinic is determined to protect his daughters from a repeat of the heartaches they suffered because of his earlier divorce. Temporary nurse Stacey seeks to wear down his wall of child protection and encourage him to live again. Can she succeed?

Barb
In the Time of the Butterflies by Julia Alvarez

4
Book was well written and researched! It gives thought to what you would do in their situation!

Donna
The Plum Tree by Ellen Marie Wiseman

5
If you loved Kristin Hannah's THE NIGHTINGALE and Martha Hall Kelly's LILAC GIRLS you will love Ellen Marie Wiseman's THE PLUM TREE! It is a love story set during a very painful part of history during WWII and the Holocaust. Wiseman's mother was from Germany and she visited her grandparents there many times growing up, so she was able to paint a vivid image of what surviving the war must have been like for average German citizens.

Dianne
Still Life by Louise Penny

5
This book introduces Inspector Gamache, his associates and the village of Three Pines. Readers are drawn into the story from the beginning.

Lois
Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate

5
Horrifying, what was done to children. Based on true accounts we see children stolen and then sold or kept in disgusting conditions. This novel is based on such events and how a group of siblings found each other again. A must-read.

Gail
Every Day by David Levithan

4
Great book. Confusing at first but grabbed me and I wanted to continue reading. Perfect for middle schoolers, too.

Tessa
The Ruins by Scott Smith

3
I read Smith’s earlier suspense/thriller, A SIMPLE PLAN, which was a great novel full of psychological nuance, family drama and several twists and turns. I didn’t see the same level of writing with this book. On the plus side, the action moves fairly quickly, though it does start off slowly. On the other hand, this group of young “adults” is almost uniformly unlikable.

Trezeline
Long Road to Mercy by David Baldacci

4
Exciting story. It tells about something that could possibly happen today in our country. Mystery, suspense, and a little romance.

Margie
An Anonymous Girl by Greer Hendricks and Sarah Pekkanen

3
AN ANONYMOUS GIRL is another in the psycho-thriller category along with so many of the other "Girl" books - GONE GIRL, THE GIRL ON THE TRAIN, for example. It was a page-turner while in the midst of it but unfortunately rather forgettable now that I am done. A good read but not much more.

Pamela
Stay With Me by Ayobami Adebayo

4
I like the main character's determination and resilience in the face of her conflict. She tries to protect her status as the first and only wife of her husband whose parents want a grandson so badly they are trying to introduce another wife into the marriage bed. This book was a quick read and held my interest the whole way through. I liked reading about the cultural differences in this African billage.

Kay
The Mountain Between Us by Charles Martin

4
On the surface, THE MOUNTAIN BETWEEN US appears to be nothing more than another survival story, but surprise. This is an emotionally laden journey - a story meaningful enough to leave a lasting impression on this reader. A plane crash, a trip to reach freedom, a dog, a deer...all sorts of twists and turns. It left me thinking - it is a great story of bravery and secrets but survival and redemption and forgiveness and includes a dog! A better than what I first thought read. It is going to be a movie and I think the main actors will do a great job portraying Ben and Ashley.

Donna
One Last Lie by Rob Kaufman

4
Early in this book, I thought Angela was mentally ill and the more I read I realized she was a conniving, evil woman who didn't have a limit to what she would do if it would benefit her end game. She was without a sense of guilt. This book was fast and easy to read because you can't put it down.

Karen
Don't Let Go by Harlan Coben

5
Detective Napoleon (Nap) Dumas is obsessed with the death of his twin brother, Leo. Leo and his girl friend, Diana, were run over by a train and killed. It was ruled an accident. Nap has doubts about this conclusion. Why were two teenagers on the railroad tracks? Were they drunk, high on drugs or were their bodies placed on the tracks to cover another crime. Even after 15 years his doubts haunt him. Leo and some fellow students were members of the Conspiracy Club, and one day police from Pennsylvania appear at his door to tell him another member of the club, Sgt Rex Canton, has been murdered. Nap's missing girlfriend, Maura Wells, is also spotted. Another club member, Hank, is found dead, and the mystery unfolds.

Carol
Save Me the Plums by Ruth Reichl

5
I honestly thought I was interested in SAVE ME THE PLUMS for my husband, who is our cook and a foodie. But I started to read it and couldn’t put it down! Finished it in less than two days. Great writing, interesting stories and a fascinating look at the publishing industry. I now need to go back and find Reichl’s earlier books because I have been missing out.

Jan
Becoming by Michelle Obama

5
This is a love letter from Michelle Obama to all the folks who supported her and her husband, to those who worked for the Obamas, to her family, especially to her husband and daughters. It is beautifully written, with examples all the way. This woman who grew up on the south side of Chicago, challenged herself to make it to fantastic colleges - just like her brother, then worked for a high profile law firm where she met the true love of her life. She explains a lot of the personal turmoil when she was campaigning for her husband. The overwhelming love and protection for her children is so beautiful. If only all parents cared this much. Even if you do not like the Obamas, this is a story of personal development and family love.

Ilene
Endless Night by Agatha Christie

5
Michael Rodgers, the narrator, starts telling his story when he first sees the sale bill on a pub about a sale for “Gypsy’s Acre”, the most valuable property in his village that he was always so enamored with. Although being penniless he decided to check it out and finds it’s not in his reach. Walking along he first meets Ellie and while they are talking he starts telling her about the most beautiful house at Gypsy’s Acre. Along the way they meet an old woman who tells them there is a curse on the house. As time goes on they fall in love. He finds out there is a sold sign, and he is so disappointed. Now there are so many surprises. You will never guess the ending.

Shelly
Silent Night by Danielle Steel

5
Paige Watts is definitely a true stage mom. When she realized she did not possess the skills, beauty or knowledge that her daughter Emma did, she decided to throw her entire life into focusing on Emma's career. Besides being on a hit TV show for two years, she has voice lessons, hip hop dance, ballet, tap and other things to occupy most of her time when she is not filming on set or being schooled on set. Her days are full and hectic with little time for friends (aside from the people she works with) or fun activities. Paige's mom was a famous movie star who won all kinds of awards and was pretty much told what to do, where to go, what roles to take and how to dress by her husband who helped create the women she was.

Richard N B
Listening Woman by Tony Hillerman

3
Book Three in the Joe Leaphorn mystery series begins with Listening Woman trying to perform a cleansing/healing ritual for Hosteen Tso, an old man who refuses to divulge all he knows. I like Leaphorn; he’s smart, determined, physically and mentally strong, quick to respond to a threat but also deliberate and cautious. It took me quite a while to get into this one, but once Leaphorn was caught up in the chase, I was fully engaged.

Deby
The Tattooist of Auschwitz by Heather Morris

4
Another great story of survival during one of the darkest times of our recent history.

Dorothy
The Reckoning by John Grisham

5
This is one of the best books I have ever read. It was a long book but I stayed up long past my bed time to finish it. A lot of the fighting during WWII could have been left out but it was interesting. It has a real surprise ending. Read it and enjoy.

Jud
Treason by Rick Campbell

4
If you enjoy edge-of-your-seat military thriller authors such as Larry Bond and Tom Clancy, then you need to take time to read TREASON (Trident Deception #5) by Rick Campbell. The plot revolves around a Russian government who was recently humiliated by the U. S. In an attempt get revenge, part of the leadership launches a coup and deploys a weapon which renders America’s misses impotent. The only way for America to stop Russia from reclaiming part of the former Soviet Union is to rescue their deposed president and create a countermeasure to once again allow the use of missiles. I give this book 4/5 stars.

Jane
Fifty Things That Aren’t My Fault by Cathy Guisewite

5
I have been a big Cathy fan since she started writing her comic strip 34 years ago (can it be that long?) and saved many of her strips that I totally related to. They are all yellowed now. I was so disheartened when she decided to stop writing it. She's had many comic strips books over the years but this is her first book of essays and the only one I've read. I learned so much about her, her writing, her family, her adopted daughter, and her parents getting older. I alternately laughed and cried through the whole book, especially when she realized her parents were elderly and how they were set in their own ways no matter how much she tried to "update them." That made me laugh even more. Thank you, Cathy, for writing this wonderful book.

Tessa
The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart

4
Book One in a children’s middle-grade series. I can certainly see the appeal for middle-grade readers. There are issues common to all children (and adults) here – what makes us afraid, bullying, learning to get along, and tolerance for other people’s differences. It’s a fun adventure story of friendship and courage.

Liz
Where the River Ends by Charles Martin

3
Doss grew up poor in a trailer park in Georgia. Abigail Grace grew up amid wealth and prestige, the daughter of a powerful senator. Needless to say, when they marry the senator is not happy. Several years into the marriage Abbie develops a very aggressive form of cancer. Treatment no longer helps. Her dying wish is to take a canoe ride down the St. Mary's River. Doss has promised this to her. Along the way they are met with many obstacles, including the senator who believes Doss has kidnapped her. The story was entertaining, but moved a bit slow. Fewer tragedies along the river would have helped the storyline.

Ilene
Professor Chandra Follows His Bliss by Rajeev Balasubramanyam

5
It starts with Professor Chandra, a professor emeritus in economics at a college in Oxford. He is waiting to see if he won the Nobel Prize. Well he didn’t, one failure after another. Newly divorced, reaching 70, his three kids are aloof - could it be he is controlling and a workaholic? He finally gets some good advice from of all people his ex-wife’s new husband. Can he turn his life around? Thank you Random House for the chance to read this.

Sandra
Trafficked! by Thomas A. Burns, Jr

5
Some graphic sex, be forewarned. I enjoyed this. Natalie cries a little bit too much for me. She needs to be strong. She was looking for her missing wife. With help from Danny and others got into all kinds of trouble.

Sandra
Elude: Part One by Derek Barton

5
Fast read. This story grabs your attention from the beginning. Young guy, just out of juvie, is accused of being a serial killer. Lots happens.

Janet
Sutton by J. R. Moehringer

4
I was fascinated by the life of Willie Sutton. Book was based on a real person and Moehringer’s ideas of what Sutton’s life was like. Great writing!

Susan
Pachinko by Min Jee Lee

4
This was a really good multi-generational story. I also learned about the struggles of Korea and Japan.

laurie
The Huntress by Kate Quinn

5
Thriller, creative, fictional history at its best! The story brought back memories of the Metropolitan Opera's RUSALKA performed by Renee Fleming.

Joanne
If Beale Street Could Talk by James Baldwin

3
This was a book club choice. I read it, found it interesting, but nothing special. However, the book club discussion was really good. There were eight of us and a variety of thoughts on the ending of the book, along with discussions about racism, family ties, innocence and love.

Jayme
Orhan’s Inheritance by Aline Ohanesian

4
This story centers on the Armenian genocide in Turkey during WWI and how it impacts several families throughout multi generations. I will be the first to admit that I ignorantly knew very little about the topic as I began the book, but I soon found myself Googling and researching more about the subject. Which is what a good historical fiction book should do - leave you wanting to know the whole truth.

Jayme
The Water is Wide by Pat Conroy

4
Written in 1969 at the height of the Civil Rights Movement, this memoir recalls Conroy's brief teaching career in the Sea Islands of South Carolina. Conroy, an upper middle-class white male, will spend a year teaching eighteen Gullah children whose lives are immersed in poverty. This book details the racism and stereotypes that he found dealing with the administration and the community. Many scenes in the book are cringe-worthy and should make you feel uncomfortable. This book is worth reading, especially fifty years later in today's racially charged climate.

Maryanne
Educated by Tara Westover

5
Great read! A poignant memoir of a dysfunctional family.

Vesna
Run Away by Harlan Coben

5
Highly recommend this book! My first time reading this author and he did not disappoint! Fast-paced and full of twists. A story about the lengths a father and mother will go to to save their child.

Robin
CeeGee's Gift by Joy H. Selak

5
CeeGee is a young girl who has a special talent, one that she has tried to "turn off". It isn't until she confides to her older neighbor, Mr. Tisdale, that together they are able to turn CeeGee's ability into something that will help other people. This story is like a garden still in bud, with each flower representing someone whose life CeeGee will touch is some wonderful way. By the end of the story, the garden is in full bloom. I will remember this story, and more importantly, I will remember that one person, even a child, can change the world.

Robin
The Darkness by Nina Croft

4
Darius Cole and Gina shared a story long ago. They also share a daughter, Raven, whom Gina saves her from death by using Earth Magic. Now, in order to keep the earth in balance, Gina must die. Her sister has sent the Hellhounds after her to bring her back to face her punishment. [To say more would be to give away the whole story, and I don't want to do that.] I enjoyed the story and for me, since I didn't read the first book in the series, I was able to quickly figure out what was going on. My only criticism is that I would have liked the story to be turned into a full story.

Debbie
The Last Ballad by Wiley Cash

3
THE LAST BALLAD by Wiley Cash displayed a world that I had never noticed. The story centers in the rural area of Gaston County, North Carolina around the mills and the people working in the mills. Ella May Wiggins works six days a week for a total of 72 hours at a job where she walks 2 miles to reach and only receives $9.00 for the whole week. With this pittance, she must support her growing family while living in a shack with three children in the black side of town. Wiley Cash pounds out a novel of hardship and misery, but Ella May stands as a beacon of determination in hopes of changing conditions for the mill workers as labor unions attempt to enter the picture. Wiley Cash portrays the characters and setting with great dimension.

Debbie
Lady in the Lake by Laura Lippman

3
I had stopped reading Laura Lippman, so I enjoyed the foray into LADY IN THE LAKE. This novel reminded me of the writing style of James Patterson with the short chapters that propel the reader to start the next chapter, and before you stop reading you have completed half of the novel. The story also hints at William Faulkner and his stream of consciousness writing in THE SOUND AND THE FURY. The setting displays Baltimore in the 1960s, 1966 to be exact. Two young women are murdered: one a Jewish girl and the other a black woman, and Lippman shows the difference in the handling of each death by the Baltimore police department and the local newspapers. I totally enjoyed how Lippman exposes the feelings of different characters.

Sharon
The Death Chamber by Sarah Rayne

5
Very different story moving between centuries, focusing on a prison. Highly recommend.

Karen
A White Wind Blew by James Markert

4
I knew nothing about hospitals that treat TB or the TB epidemic in Kentucky in the early 1900s. The book is fiction, but has great insight into treatment and the importance of music and relationships that aid in patient's recovery. Some of the events were a bit far-fetched, but overall a good book about a subject I knew little about.

Phyllis
The Other Einstein by Marie Benedict

4
You do not have to be a physiotherapist to read this book, but it helps! The author tells the life story of Milleva Maric who met and married Albert Einstein in Zurich, Switzerland and her struggle after losing their first child and consequent moves to find a job, and having two more children. An enlightening story for women today who must give up their own dreams for the good of the family! I read it for my book club and now look forward to the discussion!

Anne
The Time In Between by Maria Duenas

5
Compelling historical which is memorable and unforgettable. Fascinating era and realistic portrayal of characters and their lives.

Pearl
The Secrets of Flight by Maggie Leffler

5
Captivating and beautiful novel which was emotional and extraordinary. The story was meaningful and extremely well written.

Gretchen
The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides

5
Wife shoots husband of seven years in the face and then never speaks again! Quite an opening. She is in a psychiatric unit and a criminal psychotherapist decided to work with her to see if he can get her to talk and find out just what happened the day she killed her husband. Loaded with twists and turns with a very surprising ending.

Sandy
Beartown by Fredrik Backman

4
Would have given it 5 stars, but it took awhile to get interesting. If you are a hockey fan you will love it from the beginning.

Patricia
Women Rowing North by Mary Pipher

5
Wonderful and reflective narrative which shares experiences of women of a certain age who face new horizons as their children become adults, their parents are aged and in need of care, and they themselves have new choices to face.

Susan
The River by Peter Heller

4
Light book, good adventure, fast read.

Susan
A Place for Us by Fatima Farheen Mirza

4
I enjoyed this book but it jumped around a little too much for me. The storyline about the families was fascinating though. It reminded me of THE KITE RUNNER.

Sheree
The Proposal by Jasmine Guillory

3
It was a fast read and was your typical romance novel. I put this on hold at the library and it took forever to get so I thought it must be a fabulous book. I was disappointed. I typically don't read romance so that could be one reason I didn't like it. We would all love to find a man like Carlos but you have to face reality and know that is never going to happen!

Jo Anne
Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens

5
Beautifully written, abundant with lyrical, descriptive prose, a haunting story about resiliency, survival, alienation and loneliness. So descriptive, one cannot help but to be transported to a different time, place and life in the muddy marsh of the Outer Banks of NC. I loved the mix of mystery, romance, folksy Southern dialect and a main character who perseveres although all the odds are stacked against her. This is a book I would read again and again. One of the most beautiful books I have read in a very, very long time.

Becky
Maud's Line by Margaret Verble

5
This tale of Cherokee families living in Oklahoma after enduring and surviving the Trail of Tears is filled with fully realized characters, Indian traits, hardscrabble lives on dirt farms, snakes galore, family and mean neighbors. Richly told, Verble has created a world complete. Maud is a captivating heroine. Her family is filled with abundant well-developed characters. The plot, while simple, is richly detailed. An absorbing and thought-provoking novel, especially for a first novel.

Elizabeth
The Delphi Effect by Rysa Walker

3
I like time travel books and so was predisposed to this one. It’s a nice attempt for a first novel, but I found the chrono jumps to be confusing and the author never really explains what Kate did to fix the time line.

Sally-Jo
Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi

4
I like how the author traced each character's story to the family tree.

Jan
The Sandman by Lars Kepler

5
WOW! This is the best Kepler book so far, featuring our favorite detective, Joona Linna, who seems to have a second sense about crimes. He is almost always right about the criminal and where the victims can be found. Jurek, a terrible criminal, is caught red-handed by the grave-site where he buried a woman alive. Jurek goes to a psychiatric facility and will never be released. In fact, he is so evil and manipulative that he gets the guards and the medical staff to do things for him. Joona was the one who found him digging up the live woman so Jurek hates Joona and determines that he will punish him forever. The complexities of this murder mystery are amazing. This is another one of those books where you must keep turning the pages.

Jan
The Secret Wisdom of the Earth by Christopher Scotton

5
This is a realistic novel about a young boy in the western part of Kentucky and his coming of age. His younger brother has just died and the mother can not get over it. So the boy and his mother return to her father's home in Kentucky. This is more realistic than HILLBILLY ELEGY plus giving us insight into the family relationships and friendships the young boy formed. The writing is beautiful, so descriptive of the mountains and valleys. Along with the maturing of the young boy, we learn about the greed and insensitivity of the mine owners. Of course, this is common knowledge but the young boy is learning this and the hostility of others, based on sexual orientation, social class, land ownership. It is a wonderful read.

Helen
The Informant by Kurt Eichenwald

5
Amazing story about the real case about price-fixing at Archer Daniels Midland Company. Surprisingly easy-to-read book in spite of the complications of the narrative. Reads like a thriller. Higly recommended.

Nancy
The Perfect Couple by Elin Hilderbrand

4
As with Elin Hilderbrand's other books, this was very good. It starts with a wealthy family on Nantucket getting ready for their son's wedding. It will be the event of the year on Nantucket. The night before the wedding, however, things change when the maid of honor is murdered. This now becomes a police investigation. A number of surprising things come out about the members of the wedding party.

Rosa
Beautiful Bad by Annie Ward

5
There has been a lot of publicity about this book and it is well-deserved. It is a well-written, intelligent story about two young women, Maddie and Joanna, best friends and finding their way in Eastern Europe in the early 2000s, when the former Soviet countries were unsettled. There they meet Ian, a young Brit who works in security. The story is told back and forth in time, leading the reader to what happens during a tragic night in the present. It is truly a thriller, and I couldn't wait for the big reveal! This is an impressive debut novel and I look forward to more from Annie Ward. This book should be made into a film.

Donna
The Gown by Jennifer Robson

4
Very enjoyable book about the design and making of Queen Elizabeth's wedding gown and train. Well-researched material presented with a fictional story.

Mindy
Tigerland by Wil Haygood

4
I grew up in the city where this book takes place, but I was too young at the time to know about the story. This book gave an excellent picture of race relations during the 60s and how it affected two groups of young high school athletes who managed to accomplish something that no high school teams from one school had ever done before - win the state basketball and baseball championships in the same year.

Lisa
Educated by Tara Westover

4
Fascinating and disturbing story of determination and grit. Gives hope to anyone that you can defeat the odds and come out the other side.

Charlene
Spark by John Twelve Hawks

4
Although I have it rated at 3.5 Stars, I felt that it was a good enough book to earn 4. At first, I was seemingly annoyed at Jacob's character, but that lessened as I got into the groove of personal narration and plot progression. The author introduces past concepts as easily as he moved forward with the story, so I enjoyed that. I also liked how the author, in this world of man and the machine, has several different ideas he explores when new characters are introduced. Emily, Slater, Miss Holquist all had interests perspectives on humanity and its technological progression.

Francisca
Mrs. Jeffries on the Trail by Emily Brightwell

3
Book Six in the Victorian Mystery series has the team investigating the murder of a flower seller. It’s a fun cozy mystery series that I’ll keep reading.

Helen
The Woman in the window by A. J. Finn

4
Great thriller!

Rick
Death Unmasked by Rick Sulik

4
Imagine, a Houston homicide detective investigates his, and his wife's murder...in his next lifetime. DEATH UNMASKED is a suspenseful, mystery police thriller spanning lifetimes, using reincarnation, karma, psychic ability, remote viewing, and out-of-body experience to outwit an evil incarnated entity stalking women in Houston, Texas.

Pam
Judas by Amos Oz

4
Although there is not a lot of action in the book, there is a lot of food for thought. A young man whose life is unsettled takes a job as a companion for an elderly gentleman. His interactions with him and another housemate help him mature.

Shirley
The Clockmaker's Daughter by Kate Morton

4
This was a terrific book but there were too many characters to get the heart of the book via audio. I wish that I had a hard copy to reread some passages or go back to clarify some events. The story was engaging as told from different perspectives and different times of the characters' lives.

Cindy
Sing, Unburied, Sing by Jesmyn Ward

4
Ms. Ward writes with poetic clarity of racism in our country today. Her book is heartbreakingly accurate.

Elizabeth
Lost Girls by Robert Kolker

3
Don’t expect too much. LOST GIRLS has received so many great reviews, even a New York Times notable book award for 2013; I expected to be mesmerized. Don’t make the same mistake. Then you’ll more readily see what outstanding reporting Robert Kolker does with this book. Not only does Kolker investigate the mysterious deaths of five young prostitutes on Long Island, but he also looks at their lives, how they grew up, who loved them, how they chose their “profession.” He provides so many details you might come to understand them. I almost did. My biggest problems with LOST GIRLS were a) too many names and b) too many details. I just couldn’t keep track of all of them.

Deb
The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides

4
This book had quite the dark, evil twist to it! Now having read this book I don't think I would ever be trustful enough to see a psychotherapist, even if I needed to!!

Sean
Out of the Madhouse by Christopher Golden and Nancy Holder

2
I love Buffy and this was my first foray into one of the canonical novels. It might be my last. Golden and Holder did a good job of having the characters sound like themselves, but this book had so many things going on it was hard to know what mattered. Add to that, you know the danger isn't real because you know these characters will all survive. I think the authors had far too many ideas here. This could have been three different books. Also, the characters stressing about graduation in the middle of an apocalypse level fight seems trite. Overall, nothing that makes me want to read the rest of the already overlong trilogy.

Jean
The Library Book by Susan Orlean

5
I loved this book about the Los Angeles library fire. It was a tribute to libraries, books, and those of us who love them.

Dara
Black and Blue by David Rosenfelt

5
Like all of his books it was fantastic - it locks you in from the beginning and I didn't want it to end - great book.

Gina
The Mirage Factory by Gary Krist

5
Such a great read! This book was filled with history and dates but was so entertaining I could not wait to see what would happen next. The book focuses on three people and the industries they represent in the settlement and development of Los Angeles. D.W. Griffiths, William Mulholland, and Aimee Semple McPherson. There was so much history and detail that I was engrossed in their stories. Most surprising is that I drive by many of these sites when in Los Angeles and have plans to go and see many more since reading this book. I felt very edified and entertained when I read the last page.

Jan
The Fire Next Time by James Baldwin

4
This book is fifty-seven years old and still valid today. The state of race relations in the U.S. are awful and the organized religion folks are still being fooled. This was a bold statement for Baldwin to make back them and he suffered for it. He finally left the country and went to France. A book well worth rereading today.

Christine
The Blinds by Adam Sternbergh

4
I chose this book because the description made it sound a little like Wayward Pines. Well, it was not, but that's okay because it was a good book! It held my interest throughout and never got boring. There is a bit on gun violence, but nothing graphic or gory. It's an exciting action story, with a little bit of mystery and suspense. I enjoyed this book.

Tessa
Sutton by J. R. Moehringer

3
Moehringer tries to bring infamous bank robber Willie Sutton to life in this work of historical fiction. The technique he used to frame the story doesn’t quite work for me. There were scenes that were completely engaging and interesting, and others that just fell flat. I really wanted to like it, but my final reaction is a wishy-washy "meh."

Rob
Past Tense by Lee Child

5
Reacher is back once again in Lee Child's PAST TENSE and some of his past is finally explained, or is it? Sometimes things are not as they have appeared for a lifetime. Then finding the truth becomes a mission, and no one is better at that than Ex MP Reacher. This time about his family and its past. This is Lee Child at his best. Don't miss it!

Jane
First Date by Melody Carlson

4
A group of girls at a Christian school start a Secret Club to try to get dates to the dance. Devon thinks it odd the boys aren't interested in dating. I liked the way they had a group dinner for the group before the dance to save guys money. I also liked idea of group dates, especially as it allows them to get to know each other and not be alone with a guy they don't know. I read the book before giving to my granddaughter.

Jane
Act of Valor by Dana Mentink

5
This book will keep you turning the pages. Violet sees something as an airport employee that puts her life in danger. She texts Zach, a K9 officer for help. They are friends. Both end up in jeopardy. Zach down in spirit because his brother another K9 officer had been killed. He hadn't been able to find the killer. All Dana's books hold you from beginning to end.

Barbara
Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens

3
The most appealing facet of WHERE THE CRAWDADS SING is its lyrical imagery. I really felt as if I were moving through the foliage, smelling the fragrances, hearing the silence or cacophony of the setting. However, that fine writing was overwhelmed by the unrealistic facets of the plot. I had a difficult time suspending my disbelief that a lone and lonely child could achieve so much. There were just too many "but what abouts?" For example, no illness? Ever? Her "wild" beauty but no personal grooming? Especially, her achievement in self-education and then publishing and fame, with so little exposure to the outside world? And no hurricanes? Also, the dialogue left me flat. I read for its beauty but not for its predictable plot.

Karen
The Parade by Dave Eggers

5
Two men arrive anonymously in a country recovering from war. Their company has been contracted to build a road to the capitol city. The two men nicknamed Four and Ten have two weeks to finish the job. Four will drive RS-80, the paving machine, and Ten is to drive ahead and see that there are no obstructions. Four does his job well, but Ten barely does his job at all. He hangs out with the local people including the young ladies, eats with them and shares some of the supplies the company has provided. Four wants to report Ten, but then Ten becomes deathly ill and Four must take help from the locals. The locals look forward to going to the capitol for the parade, trade and medical treatment. The parade is a big surprise.

Lois
The Woman in Cabin 10 by Ruth Ware

4
A real thriller. I didn't dare read the book at night as I wouldn't sleep. Loved it. Couldn't put it down except for time to go to sleep.

Julie
Spinning Silver by Naomi Novik

5
Excellent fantasy novel that develops interesting characters and a complex plot.

Debi
A Prayer for Owen Meany by John Irving

4
A little lengthy but a very good story with very interesting twists. I recommend you read all the way to the end.

Debi
The All-Girl Filling Station's Last Reunion by Fanny Flagg

5
Loved this. One of her best. Great story lines, good twists. Left me feeling satisfied, like having a good meal.

Gladys
Bridal Favors by Connie Brockway

4
This is almost two stories in one. While the female is working terribly hard to arrange a fabulous wedding party site for a very wealthy couple and is receiving crates of items via the mail to decorate for the party, she is totally unaware that her male friend is a spy and is expecting a particular crate via the same manner. Spies, suspense, a mystery that is eventually solved by a totally unexpected character, this is a most unusual love story.

sherry
The Weight of Ink by Rachel Kadish

4
Long book, but worth reading. It did hold my interest to continue to read the book as I was intrigued and had my own thoughts.

Sherrie
The Life We Bury by Allen Eskens

4
THE LIFE WE BURY by Allen Eskens is a fast-paced story of a college student, Joe, who starts out to finish an assignment writing a biography. He finds Carl, a convict in a nursing home. Carl is a war hero with many medals of honor. As Joe listens to Carl’s story he realizes he must find out what has happened. Joe races against time to find answers to clear Carl’s name. I enjoyed this story and the connection between Joe and Carl was written so well. I fully recommend!

Candace
The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah

4
Great book for discussion. My group talked about how we would have handled the difficult times in France during WWII.

Claudia
Hillbilly Elegy by J. D. Vance

4
This is a memoir about the author who grew up in southeastern Ohio. His family was from eastern Kentucky. The term hillbilly was a word used as a description of a lifestyle and not just a location. J. D. tells of his youth in Middletown, Ohio with a mother that is anything but a mother and the positive influence of grandparents. His struggles shape his determination to be successful. I found this book interesting since I grew up in the same area of Ohio and knew nothing of the social and economical structures.

Donna
An Anonymous Girl by Greer Hendricks and Sarah Pekkanen

4
I thoroughly enjoyed AN ANONYMOUS GIRL which kept me guessing. Way better than the authors' first book, THE WIFE BETWEEN US. I am very budget-minded and only buy a hard back book here and there due to the higher cost. This purchase I didn't regret waiting until in paperback form. The plot line and main character had me invested from the start.

Helen
Blood Oath by Linda Fairstein

5
Fairstein never disappoints. Love this series - DA Alexandra Cooper and her significant other NYPD Mike Chapman are back. I always learn great background information about a New York landmark that I want to visit. Love playing Final Jeopardy along with the characters.

Lindy
The Sinners and the Sea by Rebecca Kanner

5
Uncharted territory, barbaric at times. I couldn't put it down!

MARILYN
Major Pettigrew's Last Stand by Helen Simonson

5
This was a reread for me because my book club finally selected it! Hooray. We really loved the development of friendships, the changes in character attitudes, and even agreed that the Major's son needed a major attitude adjustment. We were glad that even he grew in maturity over time.

Barbara
The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides

5
THE SILENT PATIENT is a thrilling, gut-wrenching, twist and turn novel that will keep you involved from the very first page. I found myself drawn into the characters' lives and wondered what I would do in similar situations. This book will take you on a wild ride through human lives, loves and emotions. Not to be missed.

S
The Clockmaker's Daughter by Kate Morton

4
Book club read for March/April. Good historical fiction mystery.

Richard N B
Blind Descent by Nevada Barr

3
Book Six in the mystery series starring U.S. Park Ranger Anna Pigeon takes Anna to New Mexico’s Carlsbad Caverns. Much of the action in this book takes place in the confined spaces underground, and Barr spends a lot of time setting up the mystery and going into excruciating detail on the difficulties of exploring such a cave. This is a totally satisfying mystery in a series with a strong female lead.

Francisca
There, There by Tommy Orange

4
In his debut novel, Tommy Orange explores the world of today’s Urban Indian through the stories of 12 characters who are planning to attend the Big Oakland Powwow. Their lives are interwoven by coincidence, thin threads of DNA, circumstance and/or proximity. They are in turn angry, desolate, hopeful, joyous, loving, confused, determined, generous and mean. Orange’s voice is unique and powerful. And I look forward to reading more from him in the future.

Donna
Finding Dorothy by Elizabeth Letts

4
An excellent account of the writer and the producing of the movie, The Wizard of Oz. I have seen the movie several times in my life. It was never a favorite of mine, but now I feel that I should view it again through new eyes. I have a much greater appreciation for the story after reading this fine book.