This contest period's winners were Amy C., Barbara B. and Samantha G., who each received a copy of DEAR EDWARD by Ann Napolitano and LADY CLEMENTINE by Marie Benedict.
Karen
Riding Shotgun by William W. Johnstone and J. A. Johnstone
This is a story about the wild west. Red Ryan had his faults, womanizing and running low on cash to pay his debts, but he was brave, adventurous and believed in educating himself by reading. His current occupation is riding shotgun for the Patterson & Son Stage and Express Company. He and Buttons Muldoon,stagecoach driver, have agreed to take Sarah Morgan, two other army wives and Lucian Carter, a bank clerk, to Fort Bliss, 400 hundred miles away, even though it is a rough ride, and the Apaches may attack. They meet several less than honorable folks on the journey, endure harsh weather, outwit the Apaches and finally reach Fort Bliss. Then they learn the lovely Sarah and her friend, Lucian Carter, aren't what they seemed to be.
Francisca
The Duchess of Bloomsbury Street by Helene Hanff
In a follow-up to her hugely popular 84 CHARING CROSS ROAD Helene Hanff takes us to London. Written as diary/journal entries on her first (and last) trip to the city she had dreamed of visiting. Definitely read 84 CCR first, but you’ll want to read this one as well…especially if you’re planning a trip to London.
Sherri
Befor We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate
Sad but compelling read based on true events surrounding the Memphis Tennessee Children's Home and their "kidnapping" of children from poor families to sell to wealthy families. Most knew nothing about the "behind the scenes" of their "adoptions." I really liked her writing style and obvious research. I think I picked up the book based on an online video of Lisa meeting with the actual "survivors" of the scam, and I think she has done a sequel which I plan to look up and read/add to my TBR.
Debbie
Almost Sisters by Joshilyn Jackson
ALMOST SISTERS brought moments of joy and compassion. Leia Birch Briggs returns home to Birchville, Alabama to care for her paternal grandmother, Emily Birch Briggs. Birchie has many illnesses that lead her to say unexpected things, see imaginary rabbits, and forget herself. Leia must balance her new pregnancy, her stepsister’s shaky marriage, the huge house in Birchville, the contents of a hidden chest in the attic, and her new graphic novel contract. Jackson presents a novel brimming with comic cells, Southern charm, and small town prejudices. Will a biracial baby find love and acceptance in this closed community? I felt the story heartwarming, but the conclusions too easily drawn, because life is not that simple.
Karen
A Bitter Feast by Deborah Crombie
Viv Holland is an innovative chef at a pub in the Cotswolds. In addition to preparing food for the pub, she is catering a fancy charity harvest luncheon for the Talbot family. Then a man she knows and argues with appears at the pub and becomes ill after eating his meal. He leaves the pub and one of the local women picks him up and heads to the hospital. She crashes into Duncan Kincaid's car. He was on his way to the Talbot's for the luncheon and a restful weekend. Instead he and Gemma James help with the investigation. The driver, Nell Green, died in the accident, but her passenger, Fergus O'Reilly had been poisoned. The detectives start digging into the past to figure out what happened and why.
Karen
A Better Man by Louise Penny
Armand Gamache returns to the Surete after he has recovered from his injuries from the battle with the drug runners. He has been demoted to head of the homicide dept. His coworkers are wary. He has been accused of mishandling the raid, and a doctored video showing him shooting young black men is getting lots of hits on social media. His first assignment deals with locating a missing woman. Her husband was a wife-beater and her father thinks his son-in-law killed her. Three Pines is dealing the threat of flooding. Sand bags are in place, but it may not be enough so Gamache has them dig trenches to redirect some of the water, which is when Viviene, the missing woman, is found. How and why she died is the question.
Barbara
Meg and Jo by Virginia Kantra
This book is a current retelling of Meg & Jo of LITTLE WOMEN. I wanted to like this book, but I was disappointed. Neither Jo or Meg took on the persona of the characters in LITTLE WOMEN. Also, they never called their mother Marmee. She was Momma. Also, Mr. March was very distant and not interested in his family.
Karen
To the Land of Long Lost Friends by Alexander McCall Smith
Mma Precious Ramotswe is at a wedding when she sees another guest who has supposedly passed away. The newspaper had printed incorrect information. Her old friend, Calviniah tells Precious that she is sad because her daughter has become very distant. She also tells her about another friend, Poppy, who has become infatuated with a minister and had given him her Mercedes and most of her hard-earned wealth. Precious would really like to help both of these women so thinks about how she help them. She and her associates talk to neighbors and others who may have information. Precious also consults with Mma Potokwane who runs an orphanage. They go to the Sunday meeting and confront him. Returns are done and Calvinah and Poppy are happy.
Saundra
The Girl in the Garden by Melanie Wallace
Wonderful characters! I couldn't put it down. Highly recommended.
Jeanne
Taking the Fifth by J. A. Jance
TAKING THE FIFTH by J.A. Jance is a no-nonsense, straight to the point novel in the J.P. Beaumont detective series. The story involves two murders and is full of suspense and twists and turns. The author does an excellent writing job in intertwining the characters’ personal lives with this murder mystery. This is the first time I’ve read a book written by Ms. Jance, but I was so caught up in the story that I now feel compelled to read the entire series. For me personally, I rated it a five.
Laurie
All This Could Be Yours by Jami Attenberg
Dysfunctional family saga at its best set in New Orleans. Secrets galore, lasting turmoil of a flawed marriage, severely affecting wife and children for several generations.
Helen
The Dutch House by Ann Patchett
A wonderful saga of a family and a house that is the center of the story. A must-read for all book clubs!
Julie
The Seven or Eight Deaths of Stella Fortuna by Juliet Grames
I loved following Stella and her family through her life and deaths!
Judy
A Minute to Midnight by David Baldacci
Attlee Pine, female FBI agent, and her assistant Carol Blum return to Andersonville, Georgia to see if they can solve the mystery of what happened the night that Attlee's sister Mercy disappeared. While interviewing the town people who know her family, Attlee finds herself in the middle of a murder mystery...a woman dressed in a bridal gown and veil found near the center of town. Two mysteries blend with each other and after additional murders, the killer is found as well as an astonishing fact about her life in this town.
Susan
Finding Forever: A 1970s Love Story by Anthony Sciarratta
This was a very romantic love story in NYC. A fun but very predictable story and too easy of a read for me. But I loved the time in which it takes place and the setting.
Elly
God, Dr. Buzzard, and the Bolito Man” by Cornelia Walker Bailey
Written by a true story storyteller, this collection of memories of life on Sapelo Island is poignant, funny and enlightening. It is a perfect read for Black History Month.
Laura
A Redbird Christmas by Fannie Flagg
Charming story of what it means to be family. Picked for both book clubs for Dec/Jan selections.
Nina
Fever by Mary Beth Keane
Mary Mallon has been identified as a healthy carrier of typhoid fever. Her struggles to become a cook and deal with her friends and lover while being incarcerated on a small island make for a compelling and interesting read. Mary shows bravery and determination in her quest to become independent.
Emily
The Splendid and the Vile by Erik Larson
Erik Larson's forthcoming book (Feb. 25, 2020) is a winner! It is the story of Churchill, family and defiance during the Blitz. In Larson's own words: "..it is a more intimate account that delves into how Churchill and his circle went about surviving on a daily basis". As always, Larson's research is impeccable. It truly is an exceptional book.
MH
This Tender Land by William Kent Krueger
Loved this book! About half-way through, I thought Huck Finn. A few pages later, I thought I was wrong and it was the Odyssey retold. When I got to the end of the book, I found both were right! I need to re-read to catch the nuances.
Francisca
The Arrangement by Sarah Dunn
Somehow, I had the impression that this was going to be a fun, farcical comedy of manners-type book. It isn’t. There are some scenes that are quite entertaining, but by and large this is a pretty serious look at modern marriage and the work of commitment – to your partner, to your child, to your values. I thought it was interesting that Dunn gave the couple the added responsibility/stress of an autistic child. My sympathies changed through the book as a result of how they interacted with their son and each other.
Alexandra
Circe by Madeline Miller
Since Greek mythology was a favorite of mine in high school, I was thrilled to read the story of Circe and various other gods and Demi-gods from a different perspective. The story of Circe and Odysseus was engrossing, romantic, and a peek into the life of mythical gods. The book was a book club selection and was not a popular choice. However, I loved it and would have to say that it was at the top of my list of favorites for 2019.
Linda
Olive, Again by Elizabeth Strout
This sequel to OLIVE KITTERIDGE is pure pleasure. As sharp-edged Olive ages, she (dare I say) becomes a little softer. The short stories have characters from the original novel that are somehow connected to Olive. What I love about Strout's writing is that I can relate to her very human storylines.
Betty
Virgil Wander by Leif Enger
Written in a casual, folksy style, this book would be for readers who miss A Prairie Home Companion and the stories about Lake Woebegone. A delightful and warmhearted book.
Maureen
Winter Storms by Elin Hilderbrand
Continuing saga of the Quinn family in Nantucket. This is 3 in a series of 4. I love Elin's writing and characters. I will be sad at the end of the last book in the series.
Rosa
Educated by Tara Westover
I read this book for book club, and there will certainly be a lot to discuss. This a memoir written by a young woman who was brought up by fundamentalist survivalists who did not believe that their children should go to school. Westover escaped her circumstances to eventually receive her doctorate degree from University of Cambridge, earning numerous awards and scholarships along the way. This is a story of mental illness, the strong pull of family ties, and courage. An amazing story.
Sharon
The Confession Club by Elizabeth Berg
Such a good chick-lit book filled with great "confessions" and life-affirming stories.
ILene
The Night Before by Wendy Walker
A good thriller that will keep you guessing all the way through. It starts with Laura Locher leaving to meet her date for the first time online dating. She is in a very nervous state because of her many bad relationships and the fact of her poor financial situation, having to live with her married sister Rosie Ferro. But what happened to her? She doesn’t return home that night. A lot happens and everyone seems to have dark secrets.
Pam
The One-in-a-Million Boy by Monica Wood
Powerful, emotional story about the aftermath of a young boy's untimely death and how his friends and family are forced to come to terms with it.
Pat
Dear Edward by Ann Napolitano
Very compelling story of Edward who is the lone survivor of an airplane crash while traveling with his family. We learn how he discovers to continue without them but keeps then in his thoughts daily.
Jayme
The Great Passage by Shion Miura
I must admit that as I began reading this book I thought that maybe I was missing something in the translation. I mean, this is a book about the writing of a dictionary - the boring old dictionary. However, as I read on and became enamored with the quirky, delightful people who worked in the Dictionary Editorial Department creating the newest dictionary, The Great Passage. I realized that this book is about the love and friendship that develops when people work with each other over a long period of time. Life is "the great passage", and if you're lucky you will find people who love the work that you also love and make each day of work worthwhile.
Gwen
Fire Is Your Water by Jim Minick
Set in the fifties in central PA Appalachians features two young people, one a faith healer struggling with her faith and one an agnostic find love under the watchful eye of a raven, who acts as a Greek chorus of one. Beautiful imagery and weaving of earth, fire, sky and water into a tapestry of questions to be answered by each individual reader.
Mary
The Yellow House by Sarah M. Broom
This is the best book for 2019. It is everything I hoped it would be.
Lois
The Forgotten Room by Karen White, Beatriz Williams, and Lauren Willig
Interesting story of three generations of women all tied together by an emerald necklace. Lots of romance and a little mystery.
Susan
The Deserter by Alex and Nelson DeMille
I’ve enjoyed DeMille for years. I love smarmy and his John Corey character was super at smarmy. Kyle Mercer appears in a video in which he beheads his captors. How does a decorated a Delta Force soldier end up like that? Scott Brodie and Maggie Taylor are Army warrant officers sent to arrest Mercer and bring him back to the States to account for his actions. Seems straightforward. Ha! It’s DeMille. First Brodie (the smarmy, reckless one) and Taylor (the tough but broken one) have to find him with very few clues. It’s a page-turner, though overly long. It’s a series so you tend to anticipate the outcome and the reasons Mercer went off the deep end. There’s a heart of darkness in us all, perhaps. Despite some drawbacks, it’s a fun read.
Lisa
Harry's Trees by Jon Cohen
A well-written, heart-warming story with delightful characters.
Michelle
The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides
Very clever. The writing is as basic as it gets, but the psychological twist at the end makes it easy to overlook and to appreciate the thriller for what it is.
Julia
American Treasures by Stephen Puleo
Excellent history lessons. Appropriate for today’s political climate.
Dorothy
Something in the Water by Catherine Steadman
A page-turner, good for book club.
Rachel
Royal Holiday by Jasmine Guillory
This is my first book by this author and I truly enjoyed it. Great characters, interesting setting, great plot, and a sweet ending for Vivian and Malcolm. I am so impressed, I will be reading the preceding books from this author this week.
Susan
Where'd You Go, Bernadette? by Maria Semple
This book was okay but hard to follow at times. Would like to see the movie now.
Linda
The Jetsetters by Amanda Eyre Ward
Thanks to the publisher, Ballantine Books, and Goodreads for my ARC of this novel. Three stars, or four stars. I honestly don’t know. Charlotte Perkins, a 72-year- old widow, wins a “Become a Jetsetter” contest. The prize is a Mediterranean cruise, and she decides to take her three adult children, who have been more or less estranged, in hopes of healing rifts and reuniting the family. All her children have problems in their lives. A whole lot of dysfunction. The story did hold my interest. Loved the descriptions of the cheesy ship, the Splendido Marveloso (what a great name!). Family drama. My fav characters were not any of the main players, but Gio and Paros - loved them both.
CYNTHIA
Before the Fall by Noah Hawley
Up-to-date conflicts - media, etc. Fabulous character development.
CYNTHIA
Lady Clementine by Marie Benedict
Romance, history lesson, personal insights.
CYNTHIA
Short Nights of the Shadow Catcher by Timothy Egan
Eye-opening history of Edward Curtis's unbelievably rigorous life's work - obsession to preserve true customs, cares, hardships of Native Americans. Also, a look at J.P. Morgan, his chief underwriter.
Trezeline
The Testaments by Margaret Atwood
An interesting story, but Atwood’s method of writing in different voices takes away from the book.
Trezeline
Cilka’s Journey by Heather Morris
Very interesting, very sad story.
Gretchen
A Bitter Feast by Deborah Crombie
A nice little English mystery with likeable characters.
Lynn
Winter Solstice by Rosamunde Pilcher
My all-time favorite Christmas story. It's the only book I've read more than twice...four, maybe five times now.
John
Reverie by Ryan La Sala
A touching, heartwarming story about magic in its many guises!
Milena
Forever My Duke by Olivia Drake
FOREVER MY DUKE is a delightful Regency romance. I found the plot very interesting, and I flew through the book in less than a day. I liked the dynamic between our two main heroes, Hadrian and Natalie. They come from different worlds and have very different views about the class system and aristocracy. Natalie is an American who despises the British class system and does not believe that some people are superior to others because of the accident of birth; Hadrian is a Duke, one of the highest-ranked aristocrats in the British land. They fight their attraction because of these differences. But they are united in their devotion to Natalie's orphaned ward, Leo, whom Natalie brought to England from America to reunite with his grandparents.
vera
The Lost Night by Andrea Bartz
Won a copy of this. Group of kids, most had been in college together, living a wild life filled with drugs, booze and things like that just don't mix well. Edie has been acting different lately, breaking up with several of the group. She is found dead with a gun shot to head. Note on computer, so looks like she did it herself. Ten years later some think it could of been murder. Search back through videos, email, police files. But sometimes looking back is the hardest part. Is there a killer still on the loose?
Kathy
Beyond a Reasonable Stout by Ellie Alexander
I loved BEYOND A REASONABLE STOUT! It had snow, a small town and good craft beer, all my favorites. Ellie Alexander paints a fun picture of a real life Bavarian Village in Leavenworth, Washington wrapped up in a murder mystery. Her wonderful main characters Sloan Krause and Garrett Strong are well developed and feel like old friends. By the end of the story you won’t want it to end. I also liked all the craft beer making tidbits woven through the story; they were fascinating. This was a great cozy mystery and I can hardly wait for the next book in this series! I think I’ll try some apple strudel and look up the Bee Sting Cake recipe while I wait...see you really do need to read this book! Yum!!
Richard N B
Second Honeymoon by James Patterson and Howard Roughan
2 stars. Book Two in the “Honeymoon” series featuring FBI agent John O’Hara. I’ll say this about Patterson (and his co-writers): He knows how to craft a thrilling plot that keeps the reader turning pages. On the other hand, the writing is simplistic, and the characters are straight out of central casting. The two serial killers didn’t really work for me. Seems the authors couldn’t come up with enough material for either of these storylines, so they combined them to give us a sufficiently long book.
Beth
The Quiet Little Woman: A Christmas Story by Louisa May Alcott
LITTLE WOMEN is my fav book of all time so when I saw this book at a used book sale, I snatched it up. Some little girls who published a little newspaper wrote to Alcott and she wrote these stories for the girls to include in their newspaper. They were discovered many years later. They are a bit saccharine and not up to Alcott’s usual standard but I like the backstory.
Carol
Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
This was a lovely book! Descriptions were great and characters were well developed and real.
Becky
Next Year in Havana by Chanel Cleeton
A two generation story of Cuban refugees centers on Elisa, 19, when her wealthy family is forced from Castro’s Cuba because of their support of Battista, and Marisol, Elisa’s granddaughter, who travels to Havana when the country reopens to tourists. Marisol carries her grandmother’s ashes with the directive to scatter the ashes in Elisa’s home country. Secrets abound as the story looks back to Elisa’s activities leading up to the family’s escape and in the present as Marisol befriends a politically active young Cuban. Strong characterizations and a healthy dose of history (not always favorable to America) make this a tale of revolution, passion for freedom, morality, friendship, politics and loyalty.
Becky
A Countess Below Stairs by Eva Ibbotson
If you are enamored with the Russian Revolution and the Tsar’s family or you are a fan of British TV you will like this sweet story of a Russian countess reduced to serving as a housemaid in England. Anna is almost too sweet and industrious to believe, but this tale written for middle and high schoolers has just enough heft to be an enjoyable romp. You will learn a bit about the Revolution and quite a lot about being an immigrant in a country that is not quite welcoming to the impoverished Russians flowing into England. You will also learn a bit about how wealthy and titled Brits ran their households and treated their servants and fellow gentry. Ibbotson produces well-written, engaging books.
Cindy
The Mother-in-Law by Sally Hepworth
A different perspective on the dreaded mother-in-law. An entertaining story with family secrets, lies, and unexpected revelations.
Rebecca
Call the Nurse by Mary J. MacLeod
Nice book. Nurse visiting isolated patients in the Hebrides Island. Reminded me of James Herriott with his animal patients.
Jan
Free, Melania by Kate Bennett
Bennett is a professional reporter who was assigned to cover Melania Trump for years and I, foolishly, expected objective reporting. Melania - poor lady, no one helped her on the convention speech, but she did not want help because she is so smart and can do it herself. No one checked it because she, like her husband, is strong and knows everything. She INADVERTENTLY used some words from another speech. And she felt awful about it afterward. [Reviewer note: never a word of apology - just she felt awful.] And all you foolish people who thought the message painted on the back of her jacket when she went to see refugee children in cages at the border was just meaningless jabber or directed at the press. No, it was an insult to Ivanka.
Jan
North of Dawn by Nuruddin Farah
A refugee couple from Somalia lived in Norway for decades. Their son becomes radicalized and goes to jihadism in Somalia, never having lived there. He marries a woman there and takes on the father role to her two children. Eventually he kills himself in a suicide attack, but only after he got his mother to promise to bring his wife and stepchildren to Norway if something happened to him. The story is fascinating - how do you love a woman and children (not your son's children) when you son has so shamed you, has turned against all your values. The couple take care of all the paperwork and bring the three to Norway, accepting responsibility for them. The whole thing goes sideways because of rigid religious belief. I read it for awareness.
Thomas
Warning by Anonymous
It was an excellent book. I really enjoyed reading it.
Cindee
What Rose Forgot by Nevada Barr
A great mystery that about a 68-year-old woman who finds herself in a memory care center and slowly regains her memory. Intriguing and humorous! This is not one of the Anna Pigeon national park ranger books.
Gina
The Deserter by Nelson DeMille and Alex DeMille
This book was a disappointment despite the rave review from Bookreporter.com. DeMille is one of my favorite authors and I dutifully read his new books. THE DESERTER was gruesome and boring.
The ending was not much of an ending. I was left wondering if DeMille and his son just got bored. Had they reached the required number of words for the book and didn't feel like writing one more word? Woof, woof (this book is a bit of a dog).
Bonnie
The Adventurer's Son by Roman Dial
Non-fiction/memoir about the author's search for his son who's lost in the Costa Rican wilderness.
Bonnie
The Giver of Stars by Jojo Moyes
Moyes always keeps me turning pages.
Bonnie
The Only Plane in the Sky by Garrett M. Graff
The best book I've read in many years. This is an oral history of 9/11. If you lived through it, it will break your heart again. If not, read it and learn. Buy it for your children and grandchildren.
Bonnie
Disney's Land by Richard Snow
Nonfiction about the development of Disneyland from the germ of an idea in Walt Disney's mind to fruition. Interesting, probably even more so to big Disney fans.
Bonnie
The Last Mrs. Parrish by Liv Constantine
Delicious novel that'll keep you guessing and turning the pages.
Thomas
In Pieces by Sally Field
Excellent book.
Becky
The Promise by Ann Weisgarber
If you are looking a book-long description of the devastating hurricane of 1900 and its aftermath, this not the book for you. While an accurate and terrifying description of the storm does appear, it is brief and secondary to the love story. If you looking for a description of life on a hardscrabble Texas farm along with a family story, this is for you. The book is well written and well researched. Catherine is clearly portrayed as is Oscar. Catherine is a pianist with a problem. The man she loves is married and now everyone knows and condemns her. In a desperate effort to get a new start Catherine chooses to marry Oscar, a man she hasn’t seen in years, and start a new life in Galveston, Texas in August of 1900.
Gladys
Reluctant Hometown Hero by Heatherly Bell
After serving as an army officer, Ryan Davis returns to his small hometown and against his actual desires agrees to run for the local sheriff. Considered a hero, he is easily elected. He doesn't consider himself a hero. Ryan is determined to help the people of his town any way he can. He volunteers to take on the many nuisance requests called into the sheriff's office and lets his deputies work on the more important requests. Ryan soon finds himself trying to help a local female citizen recover her beloved dog who was stolen. Life for Ryan becomes very involved and interesting.
Francisca
Picture Miss Seeton by Heron Carvic
3.5 stars. What a fun romp of a cozy mystery! Miss Seeton is a retired art teacher who has just inherited a cottage in the village of Plummergen, Kent. Whether she’s in London or Plummergen, she and her trusty umbrella do manage to wind up in the middle of all sorts of altercations. A bit slow to start, but once I got used to the style, I was hooked. Miss Seeton is a hoot, and I want to keep reading this series.
Ilene
The Playground by Jane Shemilt
THE PLAYGROUND starts when three different families meet for the first time for a tutoring circle conducted by Eve, an Earth mother, with 4 children and a blue-collar husband, but a well-stocked trust fund. Then there is Melissa a successful interior designer, 1 child, a cruel banker husband who is careful to never leave visible bruises. The last is Grace a young Zimbabwean immigrant, 2 children, living in a housing project where she has to be the breadwinner and only able to get low paying jobs, and whose husband is writing the same book forever. They all become the best of friends and spend many summers together with barbecues, garden parties and trips to a private island in Greece. Then two kids go missing, one of them is drowned.
Linda
When We Believed in Mermaids by Barbara O’Neal
Kit is shocked when she sees a news bulletin of the aftermath of a terrorist event and sees her sister Josie caught on camera - because Josie died 15 years previously. At the urging of their mother, Kit flies from California to New Zealand, to try to find her sister. We find out, bit by bit, about the sisters’ very dysfunctional childhood, and what prompted Josie to take the opportunity to reinvent herself as Mari when it presented itself. Ms. O’Neal does a great job with the character development, both of the sisters, and Mari’s husband, and Kit’s new love interest, Javier. A good read, parts of the story are staying with me - making it difficult to settle to a new book!
Linda
Big Sky Standoff by B. J. Daniels
Dillon Savage was serving time in prison for cattle rustling when he was released early to help catch a new group of rustlers. His early release was orchestrated by stock detective Jacklyn Wilde in the hopes that Dillon can help find the rustlers. All of the ranches have lost cattle except the large ranch owned by Shade Waters and Dillon and Jack think Waters is the rustler. Dillon finds dead calves in one of Waters’ stock trucks. Each had been shot in the head and their ear tags and brand removed. He saw the truck headed north, back toward his old ranch. Now they have to find proof.
Linda
Seduction on a Snowy Night by Mary Jo Putney, Madeline Hunter and Sabrina Jeffries
ONE WICKED NIGHT by Putney is about second-chance romance. It’s been seven years since Lady Diana Lawrence left Anthony Raines, now the Duke of Castleton. The attraction between them is still strong and Anthony will not lose her again. A CHRISTMAS ABDUCTION by Hunter is about the abduction of Adam Prescott, Baron Thornhill, by Caroline Dunham. She thinks he got her sister with child and she plans to force him to marry Amelia. But Caroline got the wrong man. A PERFECT MATCH by Jeffries is about a man falling in love with a woman over the letters she writes to her brother. When he meets Kitty Nickman, he realizes she is not the one who wrote the letters. Who is the woman he fell in love with?
Linda
Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
A beautifully-written book. Very descriptive and you can almost feel the sand and ocean breeze and hear the calls of the seagulls. Kya Clark was known as the Marsh Girl and was shunned by most of the townspeople as being dirty. She was abandoned and all alone in the shack that used to house her family. She was shy but Tate Walker befriended her and taught her how to read. She began to read scientific books to increase her natural knowledge and became a celebrated author. People were surprised by her knowledge but not Tate. He had always loved and admired her. Townsfolk knew she was an abandoned child but did nothing about her plight?? Yet they had the audacity to judge her on her appearance. A great book deserving of more than 5 stars.
Linda
Coming Home for Christmas by RaeAnne Thayne
After seven years of believing his wife to be dead, Luke Hamilton finds her in the seaside town of Cannon Beach, Oregon. He goes to Oregon and drives her back to Haven Point in order to clear his name of murder. He is angry with Elizabeth for abandoning him and their two children and doesn’t talk to her on the drive back. Although hurt and angry, Luke is still attracted to her. When Elizabeth tells her story to the District Attorney, Luke is disgusted with himself. He realizes he still loves her and wants her to stay so they can be a family again.
Linda
What Rose Forgot by Nevada Barr
When she learned her husband had been killed by a bear during a hiking trip with his friends, Rose Dennis lost it. Her stepson thought she had dementia and had her put in an assisted living facility. She was kept in a drugged state until she got the flu and went to the hospital. The drugs were flushed out of her system and she was aware of what was going on. Now back at the memory care unit, she hears a nurse say that Rose would probably not last the week and knows she has to escape. She needs to find out what had happened and who had drugged her to make her appear to have dementia.
Linda
The Christmas Dare by Lori Wilde
Kelsey James, one of the main characters, ruined the book for me. This twenty-seven year-old had the maturity of a two-year-old. She let her mother browbeat her into doing what she wanted and Kelsey was not allowed to think for herself. It was not until her friend Tasha took her back to Twilight, TX and her long-ago love Noah MacGregor that she finally realized there was a life out there for herself. She just had to stand up to her mother and quit letting her run her life. Noah had never forgotten the girl he fell in love with at seventeen and was determined not to let her go this time.
Jan
The Revisioners by Margaret Wilkerson Sexton
This lovely book, told from the views of two related women, both are black (one is a slave born in the middle of the 1800s, the other is her direct descendent born in the late 20th century) is a painful reminder of the terrible divide between the races due to slavery which is still alive and demonstrated today. The modern day woman is a single mother, protective of her son who is living and breathing in this racist world; she tries to teach him to "go along to get along," that is to be respectful and yet respect himself. Because things do not go well in her marriage and because of a downturn in the economy, she decides to live with her elderly grandmother as a paid helper. Except the grandmother is white. Many painful words.
Jan
My Lovely Wife by Samantha Downing
A lovely family, a husband and wife and their two children, a boy and a girl, seem to be the perfect family. Then the son sees his father going out at night - often wearing a suit. He decides his father is having an affair. Not so - father is out casing women for the couple. Ah - what is going on? I kept reading and learning about the perfect wife and found out that the couple do not want a sex partner. They want a woman for something else. The husband becomes suspicious at one point and puts a gadget on the wife's car to monitor where she is going. He learns nothing, feels guilty and removes it. This mystery is complex, has a few unrealistic events, but was compelling in the tangles, the miscues. A great read.
Tessa
Becoming by Michelle Obama
Michelle Obama’s memoir/autobiography takes her from her childhood through college, her first years as an attorney, meeting Barack and their time in the White House as President and First Lady. Through her words I felt that I really got to know this remarkable woman.
Elizabeth
Good Girls Lie by J. T. Ellison
GOOD GIRLS LIE is filled with drama, cruel girls, administrators that look the other way, lies, deceit, secrets, betrayal, surprises, and an ending and ending twist you won't see coming. You won’t want to put it down because it is filled with edge-of-your-seat tension, is chilling, and pretty creepy. This book was given to me by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Ilene
The Winters by Lisa Gabriele
THE WINTERS starts out with the narrator, a 23-year-old hard working woman, living on Grand Cayman in a dead-end job, where she is employed by the richest woman in the Caribbean, the owner of boat charters all over the island when she meets millionaire, New York State senator Max Winter, old enough to be her father. After a whirlwind romance, a month later he takes her to his modern estate Asherley. Max was widowed a year ago when his wife Rebekah died in a fiery car crash. She meets his 15-year-old daughter Dani, a real hell on wheels. No Mrs. Danvers, but a modern retelling of Rebecca. A great thriller with so many twists.
Bonnie
Torpedoed: The True Story of the World War II Sinking of "The Children's Ship" by Deborah Heiligman
I read this to see if I thought it would interest my 13-year-old grandson. It's suggested for ages 10 - 14. I'm 74 and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It's a great tale of survival and heroism for any age.
Betty
The God Game by Danny Tobey
This is definitely a book for gamers, and I am not one. I had difficulty with the video game references and software coding. But bottom line – the good writing quality was really good.
Fast-paced, suspenseful. I was kept guessing what would happen to each of the five friends, all misfits, who called who called themselves The Vindicators. At first the assigned tasks are innocent and the Goldz (the good points) quickly accumulate. But then the tasks become sinister, turning the friends against each other and threatening their loved ones.
Jan
A Cup of Comfort Devotional by James Bell and Stephen Clark
This is a book of daily devotionals written by many people. Most of them tell a brief story about spirituality, the love of God or others, actions that have blessed and taught them. It is really a Christian devotional because each day there is a Bible verse before the one page devotional. It is an uplifting book - all the stories give inspiration or a special meaning. The book is well worth reading and helps put the reader in a good, safe place before the day or before bed - depending upon when it is read. I have read other books like this but this is the only one that has a devotion or thoughtful message for each day. Well worth reading.
Jan
Grace Notes by Philip Yancey
I think that Philip Yancey is one of the most gifted Christian writers alive today. His insight is so far beyond mine and I always learn from his writings. This daily devotional is a collection of bits and pieces from his previous writings. I never finish anything by Yancey without learning something, even if it is only insight into myself. The readings are easy, Yancey is a modern man and often speaks of current events (except this book came out in 2009) and some of the events are not so current anymore. Nonetheless, I learned from every one. These daily readings were a blessing to me, and I encourage anyone who wants to know more about Christianity to read them. A wonderful book that has been on my shelf for years now.
Jan
The One Year Book of Psalms by William Peterson and Randy Peterson
This is a daily devotional using various Psalms as a base. Psalms or portions of psalms are printed, then the writers comment on the reading. There is Bible commentary (explaining various parts or words or meanings), often there is historical placement, and there are often stories of famous people to which the psalm has special meaning. The book was a good way to start my day; not only spiritual but also with new information. All in all, an excellent daily reading.
Ruth
The Girl They Left Behind by Roxanne Veletzos
My first time to read this author. Loved this novel about WWII in Poland.
Gil
The Guest Room by Chris Bohjalian
Richard Chapman, a wealthy investment banker, agreed to allow the use of his elegant home for his 'never-do-well' younger brother's bachelor party. What could go wrong, right? The entertainment was two strippers accompanied by their Russian bodyguards. Before the night was over, two people were dead, the men had sex with the strippers, and the house was trashed. Richard had to explain all of this to his wife Kristin, who doubted that he was an innocent bystander. The story takes an interesting twist and describes the plight of how the young girls were kidnapped into the sex slave traffic and how they were mistreated by the Russian mob. A wild story but worth the ride.
Karen
Blue Moon by Lee Child
Jack Reacher is riding the bus to the end of the line, when he notices a bank envelope slipping out of a sleeping elderly man's pocket. Reacher isn't the only one who has noticed. Another passenger is on the verge of snatching the envelope, but the man wakes up and secures the envelope. The elderly man gets off the bus at the next stop, and the other passenger follows him. Reacher believes he intends to rob the elderly man so he also gets off. He intervenes when the elderly man is attacked and injured. He walks him home and discovers he has big financial problems due to his daughter's illness and her lack of insurance. Reacher learns the city is rife with crime including bribes to cops. He sets out to right the wrongs.
Jan
Prayers for Healing by Maggie Oman (Editor)
About 20 years ago, I was very ill. A friend gave me this book and I read the meditations daily. Obviously, I recovered. I continue to read it through every 4 or 5 years. This is a spiritual book; if you believe only in hard science - don't bother. This is about prayers, poems, meditations - not all are directed specifically to healing. Many are about enjoying the world we have and noting our blessings. I have never had one bad thought about anything I have read in this book. It is a treasure and I often go back to the book to find the inspirations I want to pass on to others. I think everyone in the world would benefit from this book.
Tessa
Three Wishes by Liane Moriarty
3.5 stars. Moriarty excels at exploring relationships within an ensemble group of characters. Here she looks at the Kettle sisters, a set of adult triplets, their partners and their parents. As she did in BIG LITTLE LIES, Moriarty begins at the end and then backtracks to lead us up to that climactic event. It's a story of sibling rivalry, and love found/lost/and found again. A fast read and quite entertaining.
Ilene
The Dead Wife by Sue Fortin
THE DEAD WIFE starts when Steph Durham, a reporter for vacation "Staycation", has been tasked by her boss to spend the weekend in the Lake District at Conmere Resort Center, which has been revamped by the Sinclair family, and a chance to sample all the new facilities. In the meantime she gets an email from Sonia Lomas saying that she will be there this weekend, asking for help to investigate the death of her daughter, Elizabeth Sinclair, the wife of the middle son of the Sinclair dynasty who died two years ago. Her death was ruled an accident. Sonia thinks otherwise. What a great thriller, never guessed the ending. Thank you, Harper Collins Publishers, for the chance to read it.
Betty
Good Girls Lie by J. T. Ellison
You may never trust teenage girls again after reading this book. The Goode School is a very prestigious all-girls school. Its graduates are guaranteed entrance into only the best colleges. There is a strict honor code at Goode School but these are pampered, privileged girls with all their deceits, manipulations, and lies. Behind the closed gates of Goode School one encounters secret societies and scandals. Dean Ford Westhaven has run the school ever since her mother had to step aside in the aftermath of the murder of a student at the school. Is history now repeating itself?
Helen
The Last Romantics by Tara Conklin
Wonderful saga of a family, well written, great character development. This book explores the theme of love, its struggles, conflict and rewards. A great read for February.
Kathy
Nothing to See Here by Kevin Wilson
An unwitting foster mom steps up.
Linda
Stay by Catherine Ryan Hyde
This book covers a multitude of difficult topics including depression, drug abuse, and suicide - but what an uplifting book it is. Lucas Painter is 14 years old in 1969, and the book is told by him (with epilogue, also told by Lucas, 50 years later). He is thoughtful and caring, with a lot of weight on his young shoulders; his older brother Roy, is in Vietnam, he best friend Connor is depressed, and his parents are constantly fighting. Zoe Densmore, a recluse who has tragedy in her past, becomes a central figure after Lucas saves her from a suicide attempt; she in turn helps Connor, and eventually Roy, too. I loved the way Ms. Hyde brought these characters to life. I think they will stay with me for a long time.
Taylor
Bunny by Mona Awad
My favorite fiction pick of the year! I don’t want to give away any spoilers because I think the best part about this book is the surprises it offers. Awad draws inspiration from films like Heathers (1988) and The Craft (1996). Bunny is set at a New England University with a cast of witch-adjacent 20-somethings who hold weekly “writing salons” and talk like they’re in The Plastics from Mean Girls (2004). Maybe this book is just an amalgamation of all media I love, but the fantasy of it all had my jaw dropping. I turned right back to page 1 when I finished.
Nicole
American Royals by Katharine McGee
The premise of this story is that George Washington said yes to being King of America instead of no. Fast forward a couple hundred years and his descendants still sit on the throne. Beatrice is in line to be the first crowned queen of America. Due to this, her life is anything but normal. I enjoyed the premise of the book. The storyline was a bit predictable but I enjoyed it and will definitely read the sequel when it comes out in the fall of 2020.
Nicole
The Wives by Tarryn Fisher
I could not put this one down! In fact I stayed up WAY too late last night reading it! The main character is sharing her husband with two other women whom she knows very little about. That is until she decides to investigate. Doing so unravels all kinds of secrets and truths. This book was quite the page-turner. I'm still contemplating my feelings on the ending but I didn't hate it.
Lacy
Christmas in Silver Springs by Brenda Novak
I enjoy this author’s contemporary romance novels. This is the 6th book in the series, SILVER SPRINGS. The characters are always interesting and the storyline holds your attention. If you enjoy reading series books then this one will surely peak your interest.
Sharon
The Time In Between by Maria Duenas
Memorable and captivating historical. Beautifully written with wonderful character portrayal and a meaningful story.
Nancy
A Perilous Undertaking by Deanna Raybourn
The second in the Veronica Speedwell series, this is delightfully fun, and a little bit naughty!
Margaret
Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
This classic has always been one of my favorites. And after seeing the movie I felt compelled to read again. The format of the movie complimented the book and gave me the chance to re-visit each of the characters. I loved it even more.
Maryanne
Captive Queen by Alison Weir
Starts out too much like a steamy romance novel but then gets down to the real drama. Aside from the sex, the information was very very interesting and at times gripping.
Susan
The Dearly Beloved by Cara Wall
Religion a main theme but much more to this novel then that topic. I think it would make a great book group selection with lots to discuss. Very well written.
Kathie
The Myth of Equality by Ken Wytsma
Christian perspective on racism and equality and why evangelicals miss the mark. Through a historical perspective, the author explains the rise of white privilege, why the Bible is often misinterpreted to support white privilege and what people of conscience can do to overcome their unconscious implicit racial bias.
Jamie
All About Evie by Cathy Lamb
WOW...this is the first book I have read by Cathy Lamb. It will NOT be the last. I loved this book. The title character, Evie, is such a "quirky" gal. There is no way anyone could not love her. She loves with all she is and cares about everyone and everything around her. Magic, love, some sadness, mystery, tears, laughs...what's not to love about this book? I highly recommend it!!
Amy
The Giver of Stars by Jojo Moyes
Great start to a new year of reading. Couldn’t put it down.
Jeanne
A Murderous Tangle by Sally Goldenbaum
A MURDEROUS TANGLE by Sally Goldenbaum is part of the Seaside Knitters series. It’s a charming story of friends who have known each other practically forever. The storyline is a really good mystery that involves a fairly new character in town by the name of Tess Bean, who is a pretty fierce environmentalist. The author did a great job describing the characters and their sometimes quirky personalities. For those readers who love a good cozy mystery, you won’t be disappointed.
Lana
Firefly Lane by Kristin Hannah
Normally not a book I would pick up to read, I read this book because it was my book club’s selection. My book club had previously read THE GREAT ALONE and The NIGHTINGALE by Kristin Hannah. Both were written after FIREFLY LANE and I definitely found them to be much better written. FIREFLY LANE seemed forced and often didn’t just ring true, especially Tully’s character. I never liked her, even at the end. I also can’t decide if the author’s characterization of female friendship was accurate. I would have had difficulty remaining in a friendship with a diva. The author’s drawing attention to inflammatory breast cancer is to be applauded.
Jennifer
Never Have I Ever by Joshilyn Jackson
I enjoyed this book. It was a fun, suspenseful story that I couldn't put down.
Muriel
The Giver of Stars by Jojo Moyes
As a person who worked in a public library for almost 14 years, I was especially interested in reading about a group of Depression era female librarians who delivered books to rural areas in Kentucky. These ladies were tenacious, brave, loyal to each other, and in all ways admirable as they worked to spread literacy. Ms. Moyes has done a wonderful job of letting the story unfold in such a way that the reader feels a liking and kinship with these ladies. She made the story intriguing right from the start by introducing a conflict between one of the ladies and someone out to cause problems for her. Several love interests cause speculation also as details unfold. Jojo Moyes has given readers another well-written book.
Sherri
Strange Planet by Nathan W. Pyle
Aliens interpret our world in their language. Made me laugh out loud. Relatable. A gift to my son from a friend - he shared it with the whole family and we all enjoyed it! Think it might be based on an online comic website but I couldn't find out more information.
Laurie
The Paris Orphan by Natasha Lester
Well-researched World War II fictional history multi-generational family saga that transports the reader from New York City/Paris 1942 to France 2005.
Jennifer
Under the Greenwood Tree by Thomas Hardy
I enjoyed this, as I have all Hardy books. The characters and time period are so vividly brought to life without lots of superfluous words. Right away I was sucked in, as I expected. The wonderful thing about Hardy is that although the book is over a century old, the emotions and humor are still completely relatable. I suppose that's what makes it a classic.
Patricia
Dear Edward by Ann Napolitano
I received an ARC of this book and am delighted that it has received so much advance publicity.
You are immediately drawn into the story of young Eddie as his family starts their move from NYC to California. His life changes so dramatically that you find yourself completely wrapped up in his memories of his flight and then his slow recovery. Eddie, now Edward, discovers so much with the help of his dear friend Shay and his uncle and aunt.
Richard N B
The Good Thief's Guide to Amsterdam by Chris Ewan
Charlie Howard is a successful mystery author, writing a series that features a professional burglar, Faulks. As a sideline – and I guess you could call it research – he also occasionally accepts a commission to steal certain items. This was a highly entertaining mystery. I couldn’t help but think of Lawrence Block’s Bernie Rhodenbarr series, but the comparison is a good one. The pace is quick, the characters interesting, and the charms of Amsterdam (a city I have visited) evident.
Donna
A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles
Count Alexander Rostov is exiled to the Metropol Hotel, within sight of the Kremlin, in 1922 after the Bolshevik Revolution because he was an aristocrat. He was assigned an attic room and worked as a waiter in the restaurant of the hotel. He was always a gentleman and did the best he could with what he had available. His life and the lives of the people he met were enriched by the lessons taught and learned. I look forward to our book club discussion on this book.
Jayme
Body Love by Kelly LeVeque
There isn't a lot of new information in this book - a combination of South Beach, Whole 30, Paelo, and Keto. LeVeque does do a good job of explaining insulin resistance and the role of key hormones in our bodies. I usually end up donating books that are repetitive, but I did learn some interesting information on how snacking can be harmful and there are several delicious "looking" smoothie recipes so I'll keep it on my shelf for a bit.
Jayme
The Night Tiger by Yangsze Choo
I wish I could give this a 3.5 rating. I loved the elements of Chinese and Malaysian mythology, folklore and superstition which was mixed in with a little magical realism to create a very entertaining and spooky story. Where the story lost me was in the budding romantic relationship between Shin and Ji Lin. I didn't think it was necessary or needed to make this story provocative. It just gave it an "ick" factor and took up to much of the story. It just showcased how selfish Shin was - like his father.
Debbi
Red at the Bone by Jacqueline Woodson
Once again, we get to experience the gift of Jacqueline Woodson. RED AT THE BONE may be short, but it is as powerful as it gets. I will read anything that she writes.
Myrna
The Dutch House by Ann Patchett
I truly enjoyed this novel’s look into the intricacies of family, told in Patchett’s masterful prose.
Elizabeth
Back with the Tide: Memoirs of Ellen Douglas Bellamy by Ellen Douglas Bellamy
Toured the mansion this woman lived in in Wilmington, NC and my sister sent me the book. The woman is no writer. She repeats herself and often is incomprehensible. Only interesting if you toured the mansion. And it was disturbing how clueless or indifferent she was to slavery’s cruel inhumanity. She was 70 years old after the south lost the war.
Deb
The Only Woman in the Room by Marie Benedict
I enjoyed learning about the double secret of the Hollywood icon - that she was Jewish and that she was a scientist - during a period of history when it could have been double jeopardy. I admired her tenacity and cunning.
Rosa
Dominicana by Angie Cruz
This is a beautiful story about the immigrant experience in the mid-1960s. Ana Cancion is a young girl growing up in Dominican Republic, whose family believes that she is their best chance at getting to America. So at 15, she marries Juan Ruiz in an arranged marriage. Juan is twice her age but is able to take her to America, where the plan is for her to eventually sponsor her mother and siblings to join her. But the arrangement is not what was expected, and soon enough Ana wants to return home or leave the marriage at the least. The story is told from Ana's perspective and the prose is beautiful and heartbreaking. This is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand how lucky most Americans are.
vera
Sea Glass Winter by JoAnn Ross
When Claire's mom passed away, she left her and Matt, her15-year-old son. She moved from busy LA to Shelter Bay; Matt didn't like the move at all. It was a small town now, and he didn't want to play for a small town basketball team. Seemed like basketball is his main interest and he is used to getting his own way. Coach doesn't allow him to be on starting lineup, and he soon finds out it's a team sport and need to follow coach's rules. Lots of colorful characters in the story and Shelter Bay might not be so bad after all. Enjoyed the story very much.
Sheila
The Lighest Object in the Universe by Kimi Eisele
Surprisingly lovely and hopeful end-of-the-world story. Carson is at one end of the country and we travel with him to his love, Beatrix, at the other end of the country. Sad at times (it is the end of the world after all), but ultimately hopeful and just beautifully written.
Janice
The Age of LIght by Whitney Scharer
This book is a fictionalized account of the early life of photographer/artists Lee Miller and Man Ray. Most of the book focuses on their relationship, and their struggles to establish themselves as respected artists in the Paris art scene of the early 20th Century. There were also brief interspersed segments that told of Ms. Miller's experiences as a war journalist during WWII, and her later life in England, with her husband. I was not as interested in the romance, but really enjoyed the descriptions of taking and developing photographs, and the art world scene. Thanks, Bookreporter.com!
Donna
Ask Again, Yes by Mary Beth Keane
Keane is so great at bringing her characters to life. I just wanted to jump in the book and live there!
Janice
The Murder List by Hank Phillippi Ryan
In this story of a cold case that lingers on, and the battle between attorneys, defense and prosecutor, I kept switching sides about who was lying, who was really seeking justice, and who was just obsessed with winning. This author does a great job of keeping the mystery going and building the suspense. I was caught off-guard by the ending.
Liz
In the Bleak Midwinter by Julia Spencer-Fleming
Clare is the new priest in the town of Miller’s Kill, NY. She’s an ex-Army helicopter pilot and a very tough lady. Shortly after she arrives, a baby is left on the doorstep of the church. Clare is drawn into the mystery of who left the child and why. She stumbles across many secrets and murder. While trying to find out the answers she begins to fall for the married police chief.
Lucy
Searching for Sylvie Lee by Jean Kwok
I wanted to like this book based on all the reviews and the author interview by Carol. However, the characters never grabbed me, and I felt the story dragged. The ending redeemed itself a bit to warrant 3 stars.
Jan
Knife by Jo Nesbo
This is one of Nesbo's best. I am not giving anything away - the mystery is about who killed Harry's wife. Yes, Rakel has been murdered and, of course, Harry goes off the wagon, binging and not remembering anything. Except, perhaps Harry killed her. If you have read any other Nesbo mystery you know that this is possible. Hero Harry has done some awful things. A parallel concern is where is Svein Finne? Harry put this murderer in prison many years ago but now he has been released. He probably killed Rakel. Nesbo writes complex mysteries, complex relationships with people (often going back decades), and complex actions. If you like mysteries, I suggest you read some of the earlier Harry Hole books.
Lois
The Forgotten Room by Karen White, Beatriz Williams and Lauren Willig
Somewhat confusing at the beginning and it took awhile to fathom what the plot was. Once I had a better understanding, the storyline became more interesting.
Linda
The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath
I was leery about reading this novel based on Plath's real life events because I knew the subject matter, depression and thoughts of suicide, would be disturbing. I actually found it kept my interest and was very lyrically written, almost poetic. I'll enjoy discussing it with my book club.
Donna
The Family Upstairs by Lisa Jewell
Creepy.
Sean
Sycamore Row by John Grisham
Grisham takes readers back to Clanton and the life of Jake Brigance. I'm not sure I ever thought of A TIME TO KILL needing a sequel but this was handled very well. Late 80s Mississippi, race relations, legal escapades are all present and work extremely well. The vast majority of players are still around from the first novel. However, the book takes place three years later and the previous events were possibly mentioned too much. The ending of the book is dramatic and detailed but somewhat predictable. Overall, a very good read that relies too heavily on its predecessor.
Cynthia
The Ride of a Lifetime: Lessons Learned From 15 Years as CEO of the Walt Disney Company by Robert Iger
I consider this book a leadership seminar in book form. Iger discusses his principles of leadership and lessons to lead by. Iger admits to not being perfect and discusses some of his biggest mistakes. This is not a memoir, however - the stories are true. Iger states he tells the stories in hope that others can learn from them.
Becky
American Dirt by Jeanine Cummins
This is an important book. Anyone who thinks all illegal aliens are criminals should read this book. It is heartbreaking and uplifting at the same time. It will grab you at the first page and not let go until the last. Sabastian is a journalist who writes an expose of a drug boss. His family suffers because of it. His wife and 8-year-old son flee to el norte to escape the retaliation. This is the story of their journey to el norte from Acapulco. Along the way they meet kindness and terror, friends and enemies, hunger and thirst, murderers and robbers, and worse.
Read this book.
Elizabeth
The Girls With No Names by Serena Burdick
Effie and Luella lived a privileged life and had to conform to all the strict rules set upon women in the 1910s including being sent away. Luella, being the bolder of the two sisters, hinted one day that she knew a secret about her father, and this made her father furious. One morning Effie woke to realize her sister wasn't there. This book is one you won't want to put down. ENJOY!!
Elizabeth
House on Endless Waters by Emuna Elon
"Never go back to Amsterdam" were words Yoel’s mother drilled into him, but she would never tell why. The writing and storyline are absolutely mesmerizing and beautiful as well as heartbreaking.
HOUSE ON ENDLESS WATERS is a book that will stay with me because of its haunting beauty and its profound, thought-provoking storyline.
Noreen
One Minute Out by Mark Greaney
I won an ARC of this book from Berkley Publication on Facebook. If you don't like wild action scenes deduct a star. The "Gray Man" is pretty remarkable. The book covers the trafficking of young girls. Pretty bad, but it poses several "in the news now" incidents, which is even worse.
Victoria
This Tender Land by William Kent Krueger
Beautifully imagined characters, settings and story. Exceptional insight into the Depression era through the Midwest.
MAUREEN
Small Great Things by Jodi Picoult
The beginning was a bit too racial for me, but the court scenes were interesting.
Ruth
The Death of Mrs. Westaway by Ruth Ware
Loved this book.
Christine
Tripwire by Lee Child
This is the third installment of the Jack Reacher series. While the first book was somewhat awkwardly written, and the second was a little too long, in this book you can really notice a difference in terms of writing style and character development. Now, this series is basically "beach reads" for men, but as a woman it is refreshing to read. If you don't take this book (or any of the Reacher novels) too seriously you will enjoy it. The author himself admits he wrote a character that is indestructible; the fun is in reading how he manages to survive.
Francisca E B
Our Man In Havana by Graham Greene
A delightful send-up of espionage/spy thrillers, starring a hapless vacuum cleaner salesman whose daughter has expensive tastes. Wonderful supporting cast of shady characters, corrupt police officials, and clueless bureaucrats. A nice romantic twist and a not-to-be-believed ending. Great fun, though the British humor is a bit dry. I've never seen the movie, but kept picturing Sir Alec Guinness in the lead role.
Ilene
American Dirt by Jeanine Cummins
A really heartwrenching novel starts in Acapulco, Mexico when Lydia runs to her young son in the bathroom and hears shots ring out. They are at a cookout at her mother’s house. And now they are running for theirs lives away from the Mexican Cartel that has a hit on members of her family which started when Lydia’s husband Sebastian, a reporter, started writing an expose about Mexico’s cartels. It’s hard to know who to trust when on the run! So much happens when they meet more migrants fleeing violence just for a chance of a better life. It really gives us a true picture.
Kathy
Someone to Trust by Mary Balogh
The title says it all with SOMEONE TO TRUST. The sweet story of Lady Overfield (Elizabeth), a widow with few prospects but lots of family, and Lord Hodges (Colin), a dashing ton favorite with a highly dysfunctional family who is her brother-in-law. Their nine year age difference drives a slow but enjoyable plot centered on family, self-worth, trust, scandal and forgiveness. The main characters are well developed, their backgrounds and family are very different from the other Regency books I have read. They push the edge on acceptable norms for the times, Colin’s mother in particular! If you are into more plot-driven Regency Romance you will enjoy this book.
Anita
The Fallen Architect by Charles Belfoure
An architect in England in 1900 is sent to prison for 5 years. The balcony of one of his theaters has collapsed killing many and harming more. He feels he was not responsible and sets out to prove he didn't do anything to endanger the building. It was a very well-written, interesting book.
Helen
Old Filth by Jane Gardam
A very British story about a Raj, an orphan who became a successful barrister but was not much of a success at life because of his unfortunate upbringing.
Elizabeth
The Vanishing by Jayne Ann Krentz
A murder witnessed by Catalina and Olivia when they were teenagers has come to the surface after 15 years, and neither of the girls knows they are in danger. Both girls have psychic abilities and see auras. I am not really into the paranormal genre, but there was enough suspense and mystery to keep my attention and to keep me reading. Those readers who enjoy this genre will definitely be treated to an excellent book.
Jan
I Greet the Dawn by Paul Laurence Dunbar
I know little about poetry but I know that I loved these poems. Dunbar, the son of former slaves, was black and poor - his family encouraged his education; he loved writing poetry which was not the usual situation for a black man in the U.S. at that time. Dunbar was born in 1872 and died in 1906. He published some poems in his lifetime but died at 34. His poems are uplifting, positive (even when things are not going his way), often religious, and often about love. Some poems are written in dialect, many are fun to read. The poems rhyme; they have a rhythm/meter and are easy to read. I found that I read many of them aloud. Dunbar is regarded as a leader in the black poetry genre.
sherry
The Weight of Ink by Rachel Kadish
Was not very pleased about reading this book. Long and wordy.
sherry
Educated by Tara Westover
I found it hard to believe some of the story.
sherry
The Next Person You Meet in Heaven by Mitch Albom
Very similar to his other books.
Marilyn
Rules of Civility by Amor Towles
Interesting account of a star-crossed relationship in the melting pot of NYC.
Debbie
The Widows of Malabar Hill by Sujata Massey
Picture Bombay in the 1920s when women had many restrictions. Perveen Mistry begins the classwork of learning law, but the male students and the instructors thwart her ambitions and change the course of her life. Marriage and disappointment again force Perveen to alter her dreams. THE WIDOWS OF MALABAR HILL bounces back and forth between 1917 and 1920 with the reader given the history of Perveen and her family in Bombay, India. Sujata Massey presents a well-written story of the social mores of India. Perveen must help and assist three widows of a recently deceased businessman and discover the culprit of a murder. The biggest problem of the story is the usage of Indian terms.
Debbie
Bob Hope by Richard Zoglin
What an amazing entertainer! I actually saw Bob Hope perform in Charlotte, NC, many years ago when he was probably in his 80s. What a wonderful performance, much better than some legendary performers. Richard Zoglin relates the good and the bad of Bob Hope. Bob Hope started in vaudeville and went to radio, movies, and television. Bob Hope also entertained military from WWII until Vietnam. What man could maintain Bob Hope’s level of activity for so long and so well. Bob also presented the Oscars for many years and hosted many celebrity galas. I learned so many hidden facts concerning this icon - a womanizer and a Scrooge. I enjoyed the stories and the pictures and learning about the development of entertainment.
Debbie
Clown William and the Wind of Vengeance by Robin Elno
I enjoy westerns as much as the next person but feel that Craig Johnson does a better job than Robin Elno. This book left me feeling numb. Gunfights happen constantly and nothing seems resolved. Maybe I needed to read the other books in this series because I felt I was missing the reason for all the gunfights. Yes, the Wild West in alive and shooting in this novel, but what are the reasons. I am unsure of which team is the “good” team and which team is the “bad” team. We encounter Billy The Kid, who suffers a gunshot wound, but escapes the fight again another day. The main character, Clown William, suffers from Tourette’s Syndrome, which was not diagnosed until 1885.
Vera
Where the Light Enters by Sara Donati
Won a copy of this, but had to wait for reading time. Book is over 600 pages. Well worth the time to read. Two 19th Century female doctors and the detective gets in touch with them to help solve two murder cases. Enjoyed the book and would recommend to others. Just not a book that one can read in a couple of lunch breaks.
Glenda
This Tender Land by William Kent Krueger
Very well written and paced. Shows the importance of home and family, wherever and whomever that may be.
Samantha
The Giver of Stars by Jojo Moyes
I absolutely adored this book! It was an unique story that I hadn't heard of before so I really enjoyed learning about the "book women". While it made me infuriated at times for how women were (and are) treated, I still liked it a lot. I also enjoyed how the book switched to different perspectives within the women. I can't pick a favorite character because I liked them all. Surprisingly, this was my first Moyes book, but it won't be my last.
Elizabeth
All the Ways We Said Goodbye by Beatriz Williams, Lauren Willig, and Karen White
Three women, three different time periods, three different situations, but they all find the Ritz of Paris to be their comfort zone. The 3W's did it again!! ALL THE WAYS WE SAID GOODBYE is another marvelous, well-researched, difficult-to-put-down tale.
Gladys
Forget Me Not by Brenda Jackson
Ashley Ryan thinks an automobile accident had killed her husband. When friends send her to Catalina Cove to get her over her loss, she finds that her husband is alive but had only lost his memory in the accident and has taken on a new name. She seeks to recapture his love, but he fears what his life had been before the accident. Can love be recovered?
Donna
Defense Of An Other by Grace Mead
A bright, young attorney living in New Orleans takes his first step in exploring his sexuality. He and an acquaintance are attacked and he fights for his life, killing one of the attackers. This legal thriller will hold your attention throughout the trial and the sentence.
Elizabeth
The Wicked Sister by Karen Dionne
I predict that THE WICKED SISTER will be another winner for Karen Dionne. But remember: its title lets you know what you're in for.
The title refers to Diana. She was diagnosed as a psychopath when she was a little girl. But her parents loved her and chose to deal with it as best they could. They moved to an ideal place to do so, far from other people for Diana to hurt.
But through most of the book, I wanted to scream at them "No, no, no! You have another child, Rachel, to consider!"
In alternating chapters, this story of the family's past is told by the mother, Jenny, while the present is told by Rachel, now an adult in a mental institution who doesn't belong there.
Elizabeth
Big Lies in a Small Town by Diane Chamberlain
BIG LIES IN A SMALL TOWN has mystery, marvelously portrayed characters, and a storyline you don't want to end.
If you are an artist or are artistic, BIG LIES IN A SMALL TOWN will definitely appeal to you. I enjoyed learning about art techniques....especially what pouncing is.
Wow, Wow, Wow, and Fantastic is all I can say.
