This contest period's winners were Bob P., Lori E. and Melissa B., who each received a copy of CAMINO WINDS by John Grisham and IF IT BLEEDS by Stephen King.
Donna
The Pages of Her LIfe by James L. Rubart
Your life is falling apart around you. A life-changing opportunity is offered. You cling to this life-preserver even though you know it isn't helping. A second chance is placed before you and you take on the challenge. You learn that you must live an authentic life, no matter the outcome.
Nancy
The Catcher in the Rye by J. D. Salinger
We read this for my book club, and ended up Zooming our meeting. Surprisingly, half of the eight of us had not read this coming-of-age classic, and two didn't recall it. It was interesting to discuss the book in the context of Covid-19, with the main character feeling isolated and like he couldn't trust anyone. The themes are as relevant today as they were in the 1950s when this was written. We agreed that although it was banned in many schools, it probably wouldn't be, today. This would be a great book for a book club discussion, with a major question being do you think Holden is on the spectrum? We have never seen this conclusion in any analysis, but it's the one my book club came to.
Tracy
The Moonshiner’s Daughter by Donna Everhart
Generations of moonshiners and reading rivalries, a young girl’s witness to a nightmarish scene, and a family legacy that she wants no part of... but she does want the truth of what happened that awful day. This book touches on many subjects of family secrets, how the daughter deals with what she saw as a young girl with food, and family ties. The author does a superb job of developing the characters for the time period and location...specifically the mountains of North Carolina. This book will stay with me for a long time after.
Karen
In Five Years by Rebecca Serle
What a wonderful surprise this book was. Once you start it, you can’t put it down. I will recommend this book to all my friends.
Mary
American Dirt by Jeanine Cummins
I thought this book was a great read. I didn’t see what all the fuss was about. Very engaging!
Shirley
The Request by David Bell
Suspenseful, twisting, turning and wow, got me type of novel. It was one of those books that I did not see the ending coming which I truly enjoy. This was my first David Bell novel and I truly enjoyed reading this book. He made the characters come alive in my mind which is what I look for in a good book.
Susan
When Time Stopped by Ariana Neumann
This is nonfiction set during WWII about the author’s family. I found the book to be very interesting as Neumann made her relatives come alive. It was very personal and at times I had to put the book down - it was too much to handle. I would highly recommend this book to readers who appreciate nonfiction about WWII.
Dorothy
Things You Save in a Fire by Katherine Center
I enjoyed reading this book. It is very interesting and a page-turner. While its a great read, it has a wonderful message. I recommend it!
Linda
In the Bleak Midwinter by Julia Spencer-Fleming
This first book in the series pulled me right in and convinced me to stick with this author. I love the small town in the Adirondack setting and the main characters are well portrayed.
Tessa
A Sudden Light by Garth Stein
This is a ghost story, an historical novel, a coming-of-age story, and a tale of dysfunctional families and long-held secrets that must come out. I found it very atmospheric and liked the way Stein handled the paranormal elements.
Sally-Jo
The Women in the Castle by Jessica Shattuck
Interesting read of how each woman survived the war atrocities by keeping secrets (even from each other). They we all wounded souls who learned to depend on each other because they had to. What a sad time in history.
Sherrie
Everything Beautiful In Its Time by Jenna Bush Hager
This is a lovely story of family, love, loss, new family along with letters written by Jenna to those she loved and loves. It's a perfect and calming story to read during these times and close to Easter. I cried, I laughed and I was happy - many emotions and very heartfelt.
Peggy
Moon Water by Pam Webber
I was totally engrossed by this wonderful coming-of-age story set in 1969 in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. This beautifully-written book gives the reader a love story and a history lesson wrapped up in Native American lore and the beauty and powerful fury of nature. There are so many wonderful characters in this book I can't decide who I loved more.
Sheree
The 7-1/2 Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle by Stuart Turton
It was hard to get into because he kept coming back as all these other characters and that it was hard to follow. I might also be because of the Covid-19. I have found myself watching much more trash TV and I never watch TV, I exclusively read!
Jeanne
Old Lovegood Girls by Gail Godwin
OLD LOVEGOOD GIRLS by Gail Godwin is a wonderful novel centered around Feron Hood and Meredith Jellicoe from totally different backgrounds who meet and become roommates at Lovegood College. Meredith came from a prosperous family while Feron led a difficult, troubled life. Without giving away any spoilers, the author brilliantly created the characters, especially Feron and Merry. It is a story of a lifelong friendship between two college roommates, though distance, tragedies and life separated them for decades, but whose bond and friendship could never be broken. I received an advanced reader copy of this book and the opinions are solely my own. For me personally, it was an intense, powerful, gripping story.
Jeanne
The Line Between by Tosca Lee
THE LINE BETWEEN by Tosca Lee has all the elements of a really good thriller that is full of psychological drama, suspense, twists and turns, and at times, terrifying and shocking, that will have readers on the edge of their seat. Without giving away any spoilers, the author’s construction and description of the characters was outstanding.
Laurie
Women of Sunlight by Frances Mayes
WOMEN OF SUNLIGHT is another Frances Mayes delightful journey along the Tuscan countryside. Friendship, loss, hope, adventure, architecture, art, food and beyond are plentiful in this gorgeous novel - Brava!
Jenifer
The Vanished Birds by Simon Jimenez
I'm not a huge sci-fi reader, but the blurb about this book intrigued me. Great character and plot development, although part three of the book was a bit hard to get through (that's why I gave this 4 stars instead of 5). Beautifully-written story about how you can find your family in people who are not related to you. A truly original tale and I look forward to reading more from Simon Jimenez.
Jenifer
Hollywood Park by Mikel Jollett
I received an ARC through a Goodreads giveaway by Celadon Books. I added this book to my "Want to Read" list because I was intrigued to learn more about Synanon and the whole cult culture. I didn't know anything about Mikel Jollett or his music, but remember hearing about Synanon while growing up. This book brought me to tears -- the honesty and heartbreaking story kept me awake for two nights because I just had to read it all as soon as possible. I loved how the voice of Mikel changed as he grew up, and how we got to meet his family (the mentally damaged mother and then his loving father and extended family). A definite must-read.
Nadine
Letters From Peaceful Lane by Janet Dailey
Books by Janet Daily can be counted on to take the reader out of their everyday life. She gives her characters time to develop their story and weaves in a back story or two, or three in this case, that keeps the reader interested and turning pages. This story is set in Branson, Missouri. A place that is familiar enough to most readers that they can easily picture the homes and theaters featured here. I'm not sure how many mobsters are in Branson, but we had to have a bad guy, so why not a mobster? Drama, good drama, kept this reader engrossed right up to the end. While romance books are not my favorite genre, Janet Daily's romances are far from happily ever after.
Gerry
American Dirt by Jeanine Cummins
AMERICAN DIRT is extremely compelling. The controversy over Cummins' "appropriating" a story that should have been told by someone more directly involved in the migrant stories from Central America and Mexico almost persuaded me to pass this one by, but I'm glad now I didn't. I found the characters in the novel completely believable, and both the individuals portrayed and their stories certainly resonated with me. I liked that Cummins focused primarily on the migrants and their struggles, rather than on the cartels and other villains of the story, and also that she included characters from different ethnic groups and socio-economic levels. AMERICAN DIRT is well-written, completely engaging, and very enlightening.
Debra
The Secrets We Kept by Lara Prescott
Intriguing historical fiction of Doctor Zhivago’s publication and the CIA’s involvement.
Gerry
Where the Forest Meets the Stars by Glendy Vanderah
This was a sweet story from a new author who shows promise. Ursa is a little girl who claims to be an alien from a far off galaxy. She meets Jo, a grad student/researcher, and begs to be allowed to stay with her, claiming that she can return to her planet only after discovering five miracles. Despite serious misgivings, Jo allows her to stay, and the two begin to form a warm relationship. Other characters who play important parts in the story include Jo's socially anxious neighbor, Gabe, and his family, Jo's longtime friend and roommate, Tabby, and George, the owner of the woodland cottage Jo is renting for the summer. Their backstories are inserted somewhat awkwardly, but the characters themselves are believable and sympathetic.
Gerry
Long Bright River by Liz Moore
4-1/2 stars for a gripping mystery set in present day Philadelphia. Mickey and Casey are sisters, raised by their reluctant grandmother after their mother's death from an overdose. Their paths diverged sharply in their late teens. Mickey graduated from high school and hoped to attend college; when that proved impossible, she eventually joined the police force, patrolling in Kensington, an impoverished and drug-plagued neighborhood in the northern part of the city. Casey is often seen in the same neighborhood, soliciting on the streets to earn the cash she needs to feed her addiction. The sisters have been estranged for years, but when Casey disappears while a murderer is stalking young women in the area, Mickey sets out to find her.
Gerry
XO by Jeffery Deaver
I once enjoyed Deaver's mysteries, but hadn't read anything by him in years. Needing a book for the "X" category in two challenges, I found this one and decided it was worth a try. Have to say, it was only okay. With far too many red herrings and convoluted layers of intrigue, it was hard to say clearly at the end just who was guilty of what. The main character, Kathryn Dance, is not as interesting as Lincoln Rhyme (who makes a cameo appearance in this book, along with Amelia Sachs).
Gerry
The Defense Rests: Lessons Learned Through Illness and Grief by Kathryn Cosper
Kandy Cosper's story of her husband's illness and death is just beautifully written. While I don't share her religious faith, I greatly appreciate her perceptive observations and suggestions to both caregivers and those who wish to support them. I'm glad I purchased this book for my Kindle, as I expect to turn to it again and again in the future.
Gerry
We Are Here to Stay: Voices of Undocumented Young Adults by Susan Kuklin
WE ARE HERE TO STAY is a compilation of interviews with undocumented young adults living in America. All came to the U.S. as children.They fled hardships and danger, or left relatively comfortable lives because their parents wanted something better for them.They came to the U.S. from Colombia, Mexico, Ghana, Independent Samoa, and South Korea. Some crossed mountains and desert under horrific circumstances to enter the U.S. from Mexico; others simply drove across the border with legitimate work or tourist visas, then never left. All are currently working and/or attending school; all are contributing to our society. Very different from the accusations of criminality spouted by some politicians! This was a very worthwhile read.
Gerry
Lee Miller: A Woman's War by Hilary Roberts
I requested this book via inter-library loan as a follow-up to reading Whitney Scharer's excellent biographical fiction account of the life of Lee Miller, THE AGE OF LIGHT. LEE MILLER: A WOMAN'S WAR included text and photographs that illuminated many unknown or ignored facets of life in Europe before, during, and after WWII. Most of us are familiar with photos showing male soldiers, but who knew, for example, that Britain instituted *compulsory* military service for women aged 19 to 31 (excluding married women and those caring for children under 14) in 1941? Miller's photographs during and after the war focused on women, in their daily lives, in war work, as prisoners, as refugees. This was a fascinating book to read and view!
Gerry
The Rock Blaster by Henning Mankell
3-1/2 stars. This is Mankell's very first published novel, and is only now available in English translation. The writing is excellent, and the main character, Oscar, truly comes to life. The organization of the book was initially a bit puzzling, as it moved back and forth in time a bit abruptly, but as I grew accustomed to that, I found it didn't matter, and in fact added to my understanding of Oscar, looking back as he was on often vague memories from his past. In the end, I was sad for him, ending his life alone, far from family and largely without friends. This very poignant, character-driven novel was enhanced by updated commentary by the author in 1997, and by the publisher in 2020.
Gerry
The Girl With the Louding Voice by Abi Daré
Utterly heartbreaking portrayal of a young girl coming of age in present day Nigeria. At fourteen, Adunni's father sells her to an older man, as his third and youngest wife. Badly treated by her husband and his senior wife, she find comfort in her friendship with Kadija, another wife who's only about six years older than she. But when Kadija comes to grief, Adunni fears she will be blamed, and runs away, only to be sold again, this time into slavery with a wealthy family in the capital. Adunni's spirit and determination enable her to survive horrific circumstances and to persist in her dream of helping others, bringing the book to a satisfying conclusion.
Mary Ann
This Is Not How It Ends by Rochelle B. Weinstein
Great book.
Renee
The House Guest by Mark Edwards
A perfect summer. A perfect stranger. A perfect nightmare. When British twenty-somethings Ruth and Adam are offered the chance to spend the summer housesitting in New York, they can’t say no. Young, in love and on the cusp of professional success, they feel as if luck is finally on their side. What seems like a lucky break for Ruth and Adam is actually a tale full of lies, betrayals, murder, and a twisted leader of a shadowy group who may have very specific plans for Ruth. It was a fast-paced read that kept me guessing and even when I thought everything was sorted out, Mark Edwards added one final killer twist.
Lynn
The Splendid and the Vile by Erik Larson
This is an excellent book about Churchill's first year (5/10/40 - 5/10/41) as Prime Minister. I really liked the short time frame, new WWII details, and a better understanding of his interactions with immediate family and friends.
Rosa
Valentine by Elizabeth Wetmore
This is an incredible debut novel that is written almost like a compilation of short stories about several female characters in late 1970s Odessa, Texas. The story revolves around the rape of 14-year-old Gloria Ramirez and the aftermath of this brutal crime, how it affects Mary Rose, at whose doorstep Gloria appears immediately after the attack; Mary Rose's neighbor Corrine, a recent widow grieving the death of her beloved Potter; Suzanne, a young mother determined to better her life; young Debra Ann, who appears to have been abandoned by her mother, Ginny. Elizabeth Wetmore's writing is beautiful and poetic, achingly so. I savored all of her words and was sad when I finished the book as I wanted more. This one is unforgettable.
Janice
American Dirt by Jeanine Cummins
This book was very good, I just wanted it to go on and on. It gave me a whole new insight to immigrants making their was across our southern border. Also, how life as we know it can change on a dime.
Mary
Doctor Sleep by Stephen King
In this sequel to THE SHINING, King explores what happened to Danny Torrence after the catastrophic events at the Overlook hotel when he was a child. I loved THE SHINING, and if you ask me, the sequel was even better! A new set of villains, a young girl in need of help, and Danny's own inner demons to slay -- the plot is rich and the characters and their interplay are fascinating.
Carol
In Five Years by Rebecca Serle
Fast read. The main character has a dream that places her five years in the future. The events she witnesses during the dream, start to happen....five years after waking up. Story about friendship, grief, and fighting for not health but happiness.
Michelle
A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman
How could you not love this book? All the feels! Perfect book to read now in this pandemic.
Dorothy
The Fitzgeralds and the Kennedys by Doris Kwarns Goodwin
This was an excellent read. The Fitzgeralds are the parents of Rose Kennedy who was married to Joe Kennedy. Her father was a politician in the North End part of Boston. However, the book is more about the Kennedy family. It tells you how Joe Kennedy made his fortune. He was very influential with everyone who was important. He used his money wisely to get what he wanted. I never realized all the bad things that happened to them, and if you following the news bad things are still happening. Most of his family had an early and accidental death. It was a good read. You will enjoy it.
Geri
The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek by Kim Michele Richardson
It was so interesting to read about the women of the Kentucky Pack Horse Program and what it was like to deliver books to people who lived in the hills. I was unaware of this and also of the blue-skinned people who lived there.
Julia
A Long Petal of the Sea by Isabel Allende
Wonderful saga about a Spanish doctor during the Spanish Civil War. The novel follows his life in Spain to his immigration to Chile and all of the trials and tribulations he encounters in trying to build a life there.
Nancy
Shakespeare for Squirrels by Christopher Moore
This is a loosely based on A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM and it is fun. It has fairies, kings, wood nymphs. It also has Pocket, the court jester. It is rather rowdy, which makes it more fun. It is an enjoyable read.
Barbara
Westering Women by Sandra Dallas
The new novel by Sandra Dallas is about a group of women on a wagon train with two preachers, going to the gold fields in California to find husbands. The story deals with the hardships of the journey and what these women were running away from.
Elizabeth
I Owe You One by Sophie Kinsella
Not having read Sophie Kinsella before, I was happy to receive I OWE YOU WON in a contest sponsored by Dial Press, a division of Penguin Random House. Thank you for this book. This was a quick, mostly enjoyable, and at times, humorous read about being true to oneself, having confidence, family loyalty, friendship, & romantic relationships. Thin on plot with rather cliched characters, this seems a "coming-of-age" story for the frustrating protagonist, Fixie, who must "fix" things when they go awry, but then withers in insecurity & self doubt when confronted by a domineering brother, supposedly inept sister, & her boyfriend. Little depth of plot, shallow characters & predictable ending. To be fair, "I owe her one" more book. Any suggestions?
Summer
I'll See You in Paris by Michelle Gable
Page-turner full of twists, intriguing and unusual characters. Thoroughly enjoyed the author's talented blending of history with fiction.
Dana
Snowball by Gregory Bastianelli
It’s Christmas Eve and the worst blizzard in forty years is howling in fury. Eight different vehicles become stranded behind an abandoned snow plow on a remote stretch of highway. Several of the people shelter together in an older couples RV for comfort and warmth. While the storm rages outside, the strangers swap stories of their worst winter. As the stories are told, there seems to be a common thread. Is it coincidence or have they been chosen to be stranded together? The past comes back to haunt each of them, and it all started with a snowball. This is a gem of a story full of horror, fear and dread that kept me on the edge of my seat.
Dana
The Sundown Motel by Simone St. James
1982. Viv Delaney stops in Fell, New York and takes a job as night clerk at the Sundown Motel. She has dreams of making it in New York City, but needs to save money to get there. Hardly anyone stays at the motel, so it’s pretty quiet at night. Strange things start to happen and Viv quickly becomes obsessed with finding out what is going on. 2017. Carly Kirk is determined to discover what happened to her Aunt Viv, who disappeared 35 years ago while working at the Sundown Motel. Carly takes the night clerk job at the motel to try and find clues to her aunt's disappearance. This story unfolds between the two time lines and is a wonderfully told blend of mystery, thriller and paranormal.
Linda
Heiress Gone Wild by Laura Lee Guhrke
When Jonathan Deverill was disowned by his father, he went to America to make his fortune. He partnered with Billy McGann and both made a fortune in a silver mine. Billy died and Jonathan was named guardian of his daughter. Thinking that she was a child, he was stunned when the beauty in front of him told him she was Marjorie McGann. He tells her he will bring her to England but not now. She is determined and buys her own passage. He tries to be a stern guardian but finally gives up and admits his attraction to her. She feels the same but thinks he will be like her father and leave her at home while he gallivants across the globe. She will not be left behind and takes matters into her own hands.
Linda
All the Beautiful Lies by Peter Swanson
A week from his college graduation, Harry Ackerson gets a call that his father is dead. He goes to see his stepmother and she tells him that Bill slipped on the cliff walk and fell to his death. He walked this path every day and knew every inch of it. Something didn’t add up. At the funeral service, he sees a woman he had noticed walking by the house. He meets Grace and learns that she and his father were having an affair. Then someone kills her. Grace’s sister Caitlin comes to identify the body and she is kidnapped. If not the stepmother, then who is the murderer and why?
Linda
Always Watching by Chevy Stevens
Dr. Nadine Lavoie spent many of her childhood years at a commune where Aaron Quinn was the charismatic leader as well as a child molester. Now a psychiatrist, Nadine is treating a former member of the commune and she is experiencing flashbacks to her time spent there. She is claustrophobic and remembers something about a barn or a shed. She finds that her daughter Lisa has gone there and Quinn knows that she is Nadine’s daughter. He also knows that Nadine has gone to the police about him and has been asking questions. Would he do something to Lisa to get back at Nadine?
Linda
The Walking by Bentley Little
Miles Huerdeen is close to his father and cares for him after his stroke. He was shocked to return home and find his father’s room barricaded. Entering the room, he sees his father walking around and around. Walking around after his stroke is amazing enough but Miles can see that his father is dead. This is the start of a bizarre nightmare as Miles finds others whose loved ones have started walking after death. He learns that all of the dead men had worked on the Wolf Canyon Dam. A submerged town was under the waters as were the residents who were not evacuated before the waters came. He also learns that the submerged town was made up of witches. Are the bizarre happenings the result of a curse?
Linda
One More River to Cross by Jane Kirkpatrick
This is a fictionalized account of the Stephens-Murphy-Townsend party and their wagon train trip across the Sierra Nevada Mountains in 1844. They traveled a couple of years before the ill-fated Donner party. All of their travelers made it to California, although they broke apart into four separate groups. Snow was over 15 feet deep and deer and elk had moved to lower elevations so food was scarce once their oxen were killed. It’s amazing to hear of the hardships they went through but all survived and lived to prosper in their new homes in California.
Linda
Instant Gratification by Jill Shalvis
This is a 6-star book and is one of Jill Shalvis’ best! Dr. Emma Sinclair came to Wishful, California to take over her father’s medical practice until he was able to return after suffering a minor heart attack. Emma was a workaholic who was in charge of an ER in New York. Working long hours offset her loneliness and enabled her to close herself off to any sort of relationship. She met Stone Wilder in the clinic after a fall down a rock face. Both felt a zing of awareness. Stone worked with his family at Wilder Adventures leading tourists on outdoor activities. They fell in love and Emma fought her feelings all the way but finally realized that with Stone, she found herself and the man she had been searching for.
Dorothy
On Call in the Artic by Thomas J. Sims
The physician author recounts his life in Nome Alaska in the early 1970s. He was the only physician in Nome and the many small villages in the outlying area requiring a plane ride to get there. Easy read. I wanted to read more about his experience there with his wife and two children.
Carol
The Suspect by Fiona Barton
Couldn't put this book down. Story told from different points of view. Great character development. Twist at the end. Great for a book club. Highly recommend.
Jean
Walking the Perfect Square by Reed Farrel Coleman
I learned of this author because he is now continuing a series originated by the late Robert B. Parker. I am now living in an assisted living facility. I had read the books I had when I moved in here. When the libraries closed because of the pandemic, I needed to find a way to get books. I read a lot of books so needed an inexpensive source. I found an online used book seller and using my credit card, I ordered several books from a series by Coleman. I have as of this date read three of them. Moe Prager is our hero in this series. Coleman has a winner in this character. Moe is well-drawn with warmth and some really good humorous lines from his characters. I love these characters and these books. I shall read more of them.
Jean
Redemption Street by Reed Farrel Coleman
Moe Prager is our hero in this series. Coleman has a winner in this character. Moe is well-drawn with warmth and some really good humorous lines from his characters. I love these characters and these books. I shall read more of them.
FRAN
The Guardians by John Grisham
Enjoyed the book. FYI: I was privileged to meet the man upon whom this novel was based, James McCloskey of Princeton, NJ. I hosted a charity luncheon at which he was the featured speaker!
Ilene
Lamb in Love by Carrie Brown
A truly heartwarming love story of two lonely middle-age people falling in love. This all happens in a quiet English village of Hursley during the first moon landing. Vida Stephen is a 40-year-old nanny for a twenty-year-old mentally handicapped son of a rich American widower, and Norris Lamb is a 55-year-old fussy stamp collecting postmaster church organist. I loved all the characters and each of their stories in this simple village back then.
Betty Jo
My Dark Vanessa by Kate Elizabeth Russell
I listened to the audio of this novel and maybe doing so during this Covid19 Pandemic was a bit too much. It is a dark read since the protagonist, Vanessa is the product of child molestation while attending boarding school in Maine. It is something I could not stop because as the reader I wanted to know what was going to be the outcome not only of the teenager but also the Harvard educated teacher/monster.
Dianne
The Red Lotus by Chris Bohjalian
Great read for our stay at home period. Rats with super powers, Agent Orange, a dead boyfriend make for an intriguing read.
John
The Loop by Ben Oliver
This is the heart-warming story of a government facility trying to help young people become better people.
Trezeline
The Mountains Sing by Nguyen Phan Que Mai
A beautifully-written book, very interesting and informative.
Elizabeth
Camino Winds by John Grisham
I'm glad John Grisham decided to write a sequel to CAMINO ISLAND. I am enjoying this one just as much!
Ann Marie
What Lies Between Us by John Marrs
I loved this book and I listed it because of the high rating although I've read many books this year. In thriller category, I think it's amongst one of the better books I've read!
Ann Marie
The Split by Sharon Bolton
I enjoyed this book but I'm no longer handing out extra stars unless I really LOVED the book. This book was fine, just did not blow me away.
Ann Marie
Can You See Her? by S.E. Lynes
Very good in the midst of some not so great thrillers.
Susan
My Dark Vanessa by Kate Elizabeth Russell
I loved this book. However, it is very dark and intense. The story may not be for everyone. I thought the characters were compelling and haunting. There were times that I had to step away from the book. The writing is brilliant, and I think this book will be listed as one of the best of 2020.
Pat
The Pioneers by David McCullough
I admit that I vaguely recall learning about Americans going off to settle in the Northwest territory just after the American revolution. This book by McCullough does a remarkable job of describing the early settlers courage and determination. The research of the archival material is so impressive and then so well presented that you are immediately drawn into the narrative.
Francisca
Grace Takes Off by Julie Hyzy
2.5 stars. Book Four in the Manor House Mystery series has Grace and her boss and benefactor, Bennett Marshfield, traveling to Italy to visit one of Bennett’s long-term friends. Grace is getting on my nerves. She has the worst taste in men and, despite her “experience” solving crimes, never seems to pick out the culprit early enough to avoid more danger. Oh well, cozy mysteries are still my reading snack food of choice.
Gil
Machines Like Me by Ian McEwan
Adam is a machine, a robot who passes as a real human. There are 24 such machines, 12 Adams and 12 Eves. Charlie inherited money and bought one of the Adams for an exorbitant amount. The amazing thing about Adam is that his mind has been designed to contain the amount of information equivalent in Google. He knows everything, and helps Charlie amass a fortune on the stock market. Charlie has the task of programming Adam's personality and determine what kind of person he turns out to be. Adam has feelings and can think for himself. He is attracted to Amanda, Charlie's girlfriend, and Charlie is jealous. Interesting book, and I came away thinking that an Adam could be a possibility one day.
Mike
The Plot Against America by Philip Roth
I wanted to read the book before watching the HBO limited series. Overall, I liked it. Very intelligent. Clever. Creative. With a few exceptions, this reads like a Greek tragedy...meaning the narrator tells you about things that happened rather than reading the events themselves. So it is very dense and reads like a textbook. I felt like I read for a long time while turning very few pages. That is not a complaint - I really liked it! My one criticism: The end was weak. The final chapter was anticlimactic. It practically ends in mid sentence. Roth should have taken the newsreel bits from the previous chapter and made that an epilogue. That would have been a stronger ending.
Dorothy
Sudden Death by David Rosenfelt
This is the fourth book in Rosenfelt’s Andy Carpenter series. Andy is a talented defense lawyer who is content not to work too hard, especially since he inherited a fortune he doesn’t have to either. He loves to watch sports, hang out with his golden retriever Tara and his girlfriend Laurie. Somehow he finds himself defending a young pro football player accused of murder. There may be mob connections and drugs involved. He wisecracks his way through the case trying to get to the truth. A good read and very entertaining.
Melissa
Little Secrets by Jennifer Hillier
This is the best thriller that I have read so far this year. I absolutely love when I just cannot wait to get back to a book! This is a great thriller from beginning to end with no slow down and creative twists. I highly recommend this book to everybody!
Joy
Where the Light Enters by Sarah Donati
A novel about two female doctors in 1880s New York City. Anna Savard is married to a NYC Detective Sergeant, Jack Mezzanotte and gets involved in his work.
Gil
The Holdout by Graham Moore
Maya Seale was the lone holdout in a murder case but was able to persuade the other eleven jurors to her point of view. The case had so much notoriety that a docuseries was planned for the 10th anniversary to include a reunion of the jurors. Jury deliberations had gone on for a long time, there were many arguments, and by the time the verdict was reached there were a lot of hurt feelings. It appears that these feelings were not forgotten, even ten years later. One of the jurors was killed at the reunion. Maya was the prime suspect because the body was found in her room. Pretty difficult for her to get out of this. A very good read.
Nancy
Stolen by Richard Bell
This is a meticulously researched story of five boys kidnapped from Philadelphia and forced into slavery in the South before the Civil War, and how some of them found their way home. I hadn't realized how prevalent this kidnapping was until I read and saw Solomon Nothrup's story in TWELVE YEARS A SLAVE. This story fascinated me, but I found the writing dry, and the pages and pages of footnotes made it feel almost like a textbook.
Jan
Pretty Things by Janelle Brown
I received a copy of this book from a Goodreads drawing. Wow - this is a great book, good mystery, a lot of character development (as much as possible when all are running scams) - we get the story from each of the three (two women and a man), perhaps their real selves, as much as they know themselves. This book has too much mental fuzz, characters wondering about themselves and their place in the world but I urge you to stay with it. The ending really blows the whole thing up. I thought some of them got their just due, others escaped for the moment. Two of the scammers decide to play a million dollar scam on an "influencer," someone who has a lot of posts on social media, trying to influence the followers.
Ivy
He Said / She Said by Erin Kelly
A convoluted miscarriage of justice? It's hard to tell. But the intrigue with Kit, Laura and Beth, which goes back and forth from 2000 to 2015, is more than an eclipse.
Diane
A Good Man by Ani Katz
I was looking forward to meeting a new author. Unfortunately, the writing was less than ideal and the whole plot was poorly executed.
Emily
Shattered Justice by Susan Furlong
Brynn Callahan is at a wedding bachelorette’s party in a bar, together with her distant cousin, Maureen (Mo) Black. There are booze and sexy cowboy dancers to entertain and Mo has just ridden off with one cowboy, with a G-string and a horseshoe stud in his earlobe, on his stick horse. The next day, a pair of severed ears is found dangling from a monkey bar in a playground, with a message “Hear no evil” spray-painted on the concrete pad and a horseshoe stud is pierced on one of the lobes. Then, came another message “Speak no evil” is discovered with a piece of human tongue. Now, that is what kept me on the edge of my seat and turning page after page!
Emily
Last Wish by Matt D. Thomas
Linh Davies is an emergency physician, seeing people suffer from various injuries and even dead bodies isn’t unusual. What is unusual about Dr. Davies is that she is gifted and has the ability to hear voices of her former patients who die when she is touching them. The voices of the dead souls stay with Linh until she fulfills their last wishes. Then they leave her and move on.
However, when fourteen-year-old Elizabeth Bauer, who dies in a car accident, gets trapped inside Linh, she really has a grave headache! Elizabeth’s last wish is that her father has to die, and she is very adamant to the point that she would take over Linh’s body so that she could kill him herself! This is so spooky and had me hooked from page one!
Emily
Gwendy's Button Box by Stephen King and Richard Chizmar
GWENDY'S BUTTON BOX is a light mystery with a tinge of supernatural co-written by Stephen King and Richard Chizmar. The story starts with the meeting of Gwendy, a 12-year-old girl and a strange man in black jeans, black coat and a black hat, who has chosen her to safe-keep a mysterious box with 8 buttons on it. It was August 1974. Since the possession of that box, Gwendy’s life and everything, everyone around her has became better. It seems that way. Nonetheless, Gwendy has encountered nightmares now and then since. She starts to think that the box has power over her, and it is controlling her life. It is suspenseful and spooky, yet I wanted more of that! This is Stephen King - The Master of Horror!
Sharon
Rumpole and the Penge Bungalow Murders by John Mortimer
This novel about the barrister Rumpole is fun and interesting. It depicts the character's beginning career as barrister of criminal trials and also his personal life. He is very witty and provides many comical moments for the courtroom and the reader.
Dawn
Of Fire and Lions by Mesu Andrews
Mesu Andrews is the best at writing historical Christian fiction. She has taken the wife of Daniel and their story from the beginning when she escaped when Babylon was taken. She became a high priestess in Nebuchadnezzer's palace. When she is reunited with Daniel, she is not the girl he know before. Very compelling story.
Jan
Black Man in a White Coat by Damon Tweedy
This is a well-written autobiography detailing the experiences of one man, a black man, as a medical student and physician. Tweedy gives many personal experiences about his maturity as a person, such as acceptance of sexuality in ways that have traditionally not been accepted in his culture. The reader sees his growth as a person in his acceptance of black unmarried pregnant teens. Tweedy does not sugarcoat anything. He expresses his hurt when his professor in med school mistakes him for the maintenance man. There are really no new stories here - any of us who have been stereotyped in a negative way can tell similar stories. What Tweedy does is show us his growth and maturity and his acceptance of others. We can all learn from this.
Kathy
In Five Years by Rebecca Serle
This heartwarming love story brought tears to my eyes. The author leads you in one direction only to design enthralling love story which is passionate and moving.
Kathy
The Secret Diary of Hendrix Groen, 83-1/4 Years Old by Hendrix Groen
Hendrik Groen currently resides in assisted living, waiting to die, but not without emptying his bank account first. The “Old But Not Dead Club” and its members lead to some very humorous and touching stories. An inspiring story of how to live your life to the fullest with close friends no matter what your age!
Kathy
The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt
This is the most depressing, no-hope book I have ever read. I almost didn’t finish it, however, I kept waiting for something uplifting. Nope! I feel sorry for people who must live like this boy.
Linda
Her Last Flight by Beatriz Williams
Beatriz Williams is so good at having her chapters alternate between two different time periods - no one does it better! In this book, we meet Sam Mallory and Irene Foster in 1928 - Sam is something of a daredevil pilot, and Irene is fascinated by flight. They end up as pilot/navigator. Irene goes on to become a famous aviatrix, breaking records. She goes missing in 1937 during a race around the world, and no trace is found. In 1947 in Hawaii, a young photojournalist who wants to write a book about Sam Mallory, has discovered that Irene Lindquist is really the famous Irene Foster. This book is so well written that I felt as though I really knew the characters, and flawed as they were. My favorite B.Williams book so far.
Katrina
No Exit by Taylor Adams
Very good read and an excellent thriller. Could easily be made into a movie. Would highly recommend.
Elizabeth
The Michigan Murders by Edward Keyes
During 1967 to 1969, a string of horrific murders took place in Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti, Michigan. All the victims were girls in their teens and 20s. And all the murders had other similarities as well. A serial killer was loose in the area, and THE MICHIGAN MURDERS is the story of his apprehension. This story is true with the exception of many of the names. This was Edward Keyes‘ effort in 1976 to protect many of the people presented in this book. Nowadays, though, we have the Internet. It’s easy to look things up.
Kathy
The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry by Rachel Joyce
A touching story of a man, Harold Fry, who sets off one day to mail a letter and decides to deliver it in person convinced his trek will save her life. Walking across the country, totally unprepared, he experiences the kindness of others and reflects on his life.
Linda
Hill Women by Cassie Chambers
This book follows three generations of women from Owlsley County, Kentucky in Appalachia from never finishing high school to Berea College, and then the author graduates from Yale and gets a law degree from Harvard. I can appreciate all of the hardships and work which went into these accomplishments. The descriptions of the life in this area are hard to take, but the sense of family and their pride is heartwarming.
Thomas
The Other Mrs. by Mary Kubica
Excellent book.
Jan
Living Unafraid by Adam Hamilton
I won this wonderful book through a Goodreads drawing. Adam Hamilton was an unknown author to me. I discovered that he has written dozens of books. I loved this one. The writing is straightforward, simple, personal and poignant. By using well-known Bible stories, his writing evokes new awareness for an old person like me. The major point throughout the book is God demonstrates mercy and grace to us in all situations. He urges us always to have total trust in God and understand that good can come from bad or unusual situations. The book urges calmness in any storm. Best of all, Hamilton gives personal stories of everyday people who have come through troubles with faith in God. This is a Christian book. A classic for me.
Thomas
Criss Cross by James Patterson
Excellent book to read.
Jud
The Gold of the Gods by Erich Von Daniken
Interesting book discussing various archaeological sites around the world and whether or not they support theory that life on Earth started elsewhere.
Jud
The Sea-Wolf by Jack London
Old-school adventure novel that finds an American gentleman being rescued by a sealing ship after his own ship goes down at sea.
Jud
Final Girls by Riley Sager
Psychological thriller in which one so-called 'Final Girl' believes she has moved passed that traumatic time in her life, until a stranger shows up at her door.
Jud
Proven Guilty by Jim Butcher
Chicago's only wizard with a yellow-page listing gets drawn in to a battle with spirits that are attacking a horror fan convention.
Christine
Turn Coat by Jim Butcher
This is the 11th novel in The Dresden Files series. This story deals with Harry having to defend someone he doesn't really like as a matter of ethics. I found this book to be a bit more serious and heavier than the previous installments. It lacked the humor and wit of most of the books in this series (and almost totally ignored Bob!) and I admit to skimming over some parts that just seemed to be there to fill up the pages. Once the story got started, however, it was interesting. We meet a (hopefully) new character, we lose an older one, and another favorite character seems to have been changed for the worst. This was not a bad story, just a little bloated in places.
Francisca
Little Beach Street Bakery by Jenny Colgan
This is a lovely chick-lit romance novel. Things don’t do smoothly for our heroine, but love will win in the end. It was a fast and enjoyable read full of colorful characters. First in a series set in the tidal coastal island off Cornwall coast.
Roe
The Safe Place by Anna Downes
Just finished this awesome book. I was lucky enough to receive an ARC. Warning - be prepared to stay up all night - impossible to put down. The story is captivating and several times I stopped and wondered what the heck was going on. Very satisfying ending. Give yourself a treat. On sale in July - pre-order it now.
Sandy
This Is How It Always Is by Laurie Frankel
This is a very special novel and will help you to understand people who are different. I loved every bit of it and hope Laurie Frankel has written other books that are just as good.
Jan
Hill Women by Cassie Chambers
This is an autobiography of the author which has an emphasis on the Appalachian women who influenced her through college at Yale and law school at Harvard. She grew up in the mountains and Berea, Kentucky where her mother managed to go to college. Her mother was the first in the family to get a college education - she influenced Chambers to take risks when her mountain relatives were staying back in the mountains and unwilling to change or even experience new places or new lives. Sadly, her mother was killed just as she finished this book because the book really is a tribute to her mother, her aunt, and her grandmother - all women who influenced her in many ways. She has now returned to the mountains to help people. A great read.
Lynn
The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett
I told myself I was going to take my time reading this huge book. Couldn't do it! So engrossing I read it in three days!
Jean
The Shooting at Chateau Rock by Martin Walker
The next best thing to a vacation in France. Walker explores the food and culture while looking into the death of a local elderly farmer who may have been targeted in an insurance scam. This is a relaxing read populated by characters you will love.
Debi
The Guest List by Lucy Foley
Quick-moving crime thriller which takes you to a remote island wedding. It's not who did it, it's more like who didn't do it. Pack mentality takes over the guests during the pre-wedding get-together and reception, itself. The story weaves together what is currently happening in one chapter and how it was influenced by past actions in another from multi-perspectives. Snuggle down for a weekend ride because you're going to want to know just what happens when the past is confronted with the now...
AND THEN THE LIGHTS GO out.
Louise
Her Last Flight by Beatriz Williams
Well-written drama and suspense. I would be lulled into thinking I knew where it was going and then be surprised.
Elizabeth
The Mother-in-Law by Sally Hepworth
Very good.
Sharon
A Murder in Music City by Michael Bishop
A great crime book written by a sales executive!
Nancy
Tatiana by Martin Cruz Smith
I've read most of this author's books, and enjoyed them. This one, however, was among my least favorite. They all center around a Moscow detective, Arkady. Unlike American detectives, he is stymied by the system, and doesn't have the freedom or wherewithal that we're used to seeing with American detectives. I almost put this book down midway, but I'm glad I kept going. The murder he's investigating turns out to be a different crime altogether. Lesson learned: I don't want to live in Russia, and I especially don't want to own a bike there.
Carol
A Good Neighborhood by Therese Anne Fowler
So well written weaving several complex issues into her storyline.
Suzanne
Accidental Lawyer by Kim Hamilton
I wanted something light with laughs. Hopefully this is the first of a series. Great story about a young criminal lawyer, better known as an ambulance chaser. Lots of laughs and a good mystery.
Barbara
We Were the Lucky Ones by Georgia Hunter
I really like this book that tells the story of a Jewish family's life during the Holocaust. Their strength is a tribute to human endurance. The fact that they survived and were brought together afterwards is amazing. I wad especially touched by Addy's devotion to his mother and his never ending search for his family, all the letters he wrote, never knowing if they reached anyone. This is a story of hope, luck and an enormous amount of love.
Cynthia
Crossing to Safety by Wallace Stegner
This is such a beautifully-written book, I could hardly put it down. The story is really a character study of two couples who become fast friends at a young age, and remain so throughout their lives. It prompts self-reflection about expectations, values, and loyalty, among other important topics. I plan to suggest it as a book club selection when we are able to meet again!
Phyllis
Wicked by Gregory Maguire
Based on THE WIZARD OF OZ and tells the background of the Wicked Witch of the West. Very descriptive of characters and imagery setting of the land of Oz.
Sheree
Chinese Whispers by Peter May
Did not like this book at all. It was very gruesome and I didn't like the characters. I didn't have anything else to read since the library is closed and this took forever to finish. I would not recommend it.
Janet
Zero Day by David Baldacci
First in the John Puller series. Loved the characters and how they interacted with each other. Lots of action along with quick witty comments that kept the story flowing. Can't wait to read the next book in the series.
Bob
The Girl in the Spider's Web by David Lagercrantz
Very good book. I enjoyed reading it.
Joanne
The Unlikely Spy by Daniel Silva
This is Silva’s first book, and though I’d read all of the Gabriel Allon series, I’d never read this one. It was very long, but filled with interesting twists and turns, especially at the very end. Highly recommend for those into the old spy craft-type novels.
Jennifer
Whispering Rock by Robin Carr
This is the third book in the Virgin River series.
Mary Lou
Dear Edward by Ann Napolitano
This book grabs your heart and doesn't let go. Loss, grief and love all in one book.
Pam
House of Spies by Daniel Silva
This one has lots of action and many characters, but the author weaves it all together perfectly in a gripping tale of cooperation between international spy organizations with the common goal of neutralizing a terrorist. Rather than just a tale of bombings and terror, there's also the personal stories of the various characters and it makes for a suspenseful, emotion-packed read.
Adam
A Red Death by Walter Mosley
This was my second Easy Rawlins novel, after somehow letter the series pass me by for years. Mosley's amazing, and I'm now trying to catchup. This one again finds Easy dealing with the usual hardboiled stuff -- he has at least three lovers and about ten gallons of booze in the book -- but his '50s LA is a a very different world than the all-white version of Chandler and his ilk. We get racist IRS agents, communist witch-hints, and more set against a world where even another African-American police officer will let his colleagues whale on Easy to get a confession out of him. Grim but also often funny, and with a level of moral complexity that makes for a fantastic hero.
Janie
The Book of Lost Friends by Lisa Wingate
I’ve read 16 books since our quarantine began in California and this was the best! As in BEFORE WE WERE YOURS, Ms. Wingate gives us a well-researched, well-written story about a time in our history that was “swept under the rug”. If you only read one book this year, this should be it.
Kathleen
The Clockmaker’s Daughter by Kate Morton
The story was a good one and Ms. Morton did a great job of bringing all the characters together, though divided by time, in the end. However, the book was just too long. She introduced new characters when the story should have been winding down and many of her descriptions of clothes, jewelry, furnishings and the like were too long and too flowery.
wendy
Thirteen by Steve Cavanagh
Quite an ingenious plot, many twists and turns. This book had likeable characters and had me reading for hours to see what happened next! The villain really goes to great lengths to accomplish his goals, but the events still are believable.
Kathy
The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt
I just finished this very long novel! But hated to see it end...this book has everything - it is at times funny, poignant, irritating, downright maddening, yet wonderfully written. The characters are so REAL and the plot so exciting! LOVED it!!
April
The Dirty South by John Connolly
I have not read any of John Connolly's books before so Charlie Parker was a new character to me. I don't like to give away spoilers in my reviews. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The characters - even the surly ones - were rich and full. I could easily imagine the different settings. The crimes were believable and very hard to figure out. I had an inkling towards the very ending but I think a book should give you an inkling of whodunit and not always be a slap in the face reveal. I also think method of death doesn't always have to be explained in every detail - sometimes the method of death is just the method of death - especially with torture. I even loved the characters I hated - the Cades.
April
Queenie Malone's Paradise Hotel by Ruth Hogan
This is the first Ruth Hogan book I've read. I did like the story for the first 90 percent. I found the characters to be complete and easy to imagine. I thought it was a good story but was confused by the last 10 percent. I don't want to give away spoilers. I reread the last part and still have a question or two. I think it could have ended on a cleaner note.
Daphne
Envious by Lisa Jackson
It had the sprawl of Michner, the heart of Steele and a touch of heart. I loved the fact that three women had to overcome suspicion and gossip to form a strong family bond. It was my first Lisa Jackson novel; let’s hope it’s not my last.
Daphne
Daddy’s Girls by Danielle Steel
I love a good Steel story, and this one does not disappoint. Three sisters all vying for the attention of their overbearing father, a man who was left to raise three small girls the best he knew how. Each grows to forge her own path, only one remains in his shadow by his side running a large ranch in California. Death brings the sisters to confront not just their past but a present that forces serious changes in the lives they have come to love.
Michelle
Shanghai Girls by Lisa See
A good read overall. It was at times a pretty heavy, dark book though with a lot of tragedy. For some reason, I wasn't expecting the level of brutality it had. I absolutely loved See's THE TEA GIRL OF HUMMINGBIRD LANE which had its share of tragic elements but nowhere close to the level of brutality. In this story though, it's more more of a historical novel, and I know the graphic scenes were a true representation of history so it was not uncalled for. The story spans many years and did feel drawn out at times for me. As much as I was looking forward to the book wrapping up, I was not expecting the abrupt ending, which is a major cliffhanger, and apparently continues into a second book. Overall, I would recommend the book; I did enjoy it.
Lois
Nobody's Fool by Richard Russo
Fabulous characters interacting and making one smile. Sully and Miss Beryl were my favorites.
Ruthie
The Memory of Us by Camille DiMaio
Historical romance with interesting characters. Well written.
sandra
Twisted: Volume Two by J. B. Forsyth
Interesting read. Various stories, one, about a man, who made sure he was in people's photos. By being in them, he could watch the people. Another one, a man and his wife, purchased a magic hat for their son. Got more than they bargained for. Other good, different stories, too.
sandra
Looking For Lainey (Carissa Jones #2) by Kristen Middelton
Great read, this is second in the series. I also read the first one. Young woman, with psychic abilities, helps to locate missing kids.
sandra
Mommy's Got a Tramp Stamp: The truth about surviving motherhood and finding yourself by Cassie Pigg
Common sense and humor. This is a great read. Any expecting mom or new mom should read this. Advice, humor and common sense. Thanks for writing, to help other women.
sandra
The Kidney Donor (Dave Slater Mystery Novels, #8) by P. F. Ford
Excellent read! Two buddies who were police men decided to go in another direction. They opened up a private investigation firm. Homeless men were being killed. The sleeves were cut off their shirts also. Why? Who is doing the killing? Surprise ending.
Linda
The Things We Cannot Say by Kelly Rimmer
I loved this book! It is the story of Alina, who lives through WWII in Poland and her granddaughter, Alice, who is going through a stressful time with her marriage and autistic son in present day America. Their stories come together when Alice goes to Poland to uncover the secrets of her grandmother’s past.
sandra
Baking is Murder (Bee's Bakehouse Mysteries, #1) by Kathy Cranston
Quick read. Lady, after her divorce and losing her job, moves to a small town. Her aunt lives there. She decides to help her aunt in the bake shop. Then, the lady meets a dog breeder and offers to walk the dogs. A murder happens and the lady helps to solve the crime.
sandra
Betrayal In Blue: The Shocking Memoir of the Scandal That Rocked the NYPD by Burl Barer, Frank C. Girardot Jr. and Ken Eurell
Wow. To protect and serve themselves is what this book is about. One corrupt cop, in turn, corrupted his partners. They could have said no, but wanted the money, drugs and excitement. Very sad.
sandra
Cup: The Continuation by Robert Wills and Rachael Kasper
This is part two of the story. I read the first one and was pleased there was at the beginning of that book, a brief review of CUP. This picks up the story. Cup/Ellen is married now, and expecting a baby. Unfortunately, it was not to be at this time. Thank goodness her parents live in a house right by them. Ellen, though she cannot hear or speak, has her own language to communicate with her loved ones. She befriended a homeless man, and he became like a member of the family as do others around them. Ellen gets pregnant again, and this baby brings joy to all. Though this family has some hard times, they stick together through it all. Very enjoyable read.
Susan
Dear Edward by Ann Napolitano
Twelve year old Eddie gets on a plane with his family in New York City to relocate to Los Angles but over Denver the plane crashes and Eddie is the only survivor. He has to go live with his aunt and uncle. The story unfolds through the years on how he coped with this.
Sean
Cruel and Unusual by Patricia Cornwell
Yeah, I'm not sure Patricia Cornwell is my jam. This is the second book of hers that I've been underwhelmed by. My biggest issue here is that the main character is so unlikable and boring. Not to mention her niece is awful. The mystery is dumb and the tech speak doesn't hold up at all. Overall, a bizarre novel that I wouldn't recommend.
J
Criss Cross by James Patterson
I couldn’t stop reading. I finished this book in one day and two hours the following day. I just didn’t want to put it down.
Pat
The Book of Lost Friends by Lisa Wingate
I love her books‼️ I learn so much about history from her, too. Her books are incredible - please read her.
Pat
The Boy from the Woods by Harlan Coben
His books are all awesome...have read everything he’s written. I don’t know where he comes up with his ideas...his imagination is uncanny. Book is intriguing...can’t put it down!
Carol
Chosen Ones by Veronica Roth
Apocalyptic, but easy to read. Two worlds colliding with a few Chosen Ones able to right wrongs. An interesting twist when it turns out the Dark One is able to go from world to world. Did not expect that! Fun and easy read. Thank you for another good book to enjoy.
Kimberley
American Dirt by Jeanine Cummins
A heartwrenching novel following a young mom and her son a son as they traverse Mexico and its horrors trying to immigrate to the North. It is terrifying and eye-opening .
Liz
Just Watch Me by Jeff Lindsay
Riley Wolfe is a master thief. He attempts, and usually succeeds, in stealing objects that no one would ever attempt. He has no problem eliminating anyone who gets in his way. His next big job is to abscond with the Crown Jewels of Iran that are to be on display in a museum in the U.S.
Interesting enough story, with a little humor thrown in.
Debbie
What Momma Left Behind by Cindy K. Sproles
During the current pandemic in the United States, the hardship of the Tennessee mountains during the 1870s reminds readers that we still have a better life. Cindy K. Sproles conveys a sense of the everyday hardship of the influenza epidemic and the unshaking belief in God. Worri Dressar loses her mother, her home, and security during the outbreak of influenza in the mountains. She inherits four homeless orphans and two troublesome brothers. At seventeen years old, Worri must care for this motley crew of survivors. Cindy K. Sproles narrates the story from the eyes of Worri, who questions this dilemma. Worri’s words are simple and uneducated, but strong in the wisdom of survival and in God’s plan.
Audrey
What Rose Forgot by Nevada Barr
This may be the most I've enjoyed a book in a long time, and I read a lot! Rose is in her early 60s. At first, she's in a secure Alzheimer's unit in a nursing home. She is in a fog, but manages to hold herself together enough to fake taking her pills. The longer she goes without the drugs, the more lucid she becomes. She realizes that she has to escape from the home to save herself.
The plot was well done, but my favorite part was the characters. Rose may be a "senior", and a bit eccentric, but she's a strong, intelligent woman. As a woman of a certain age myself, I really enjoy reading about characters who don't need taken care of, who can still run their own lives and think for themselves.
Susan
Think of a Number by John Verdon
The retired homicide investigator, Dave Gurney, reluctantly agrees to investigate unusual poems received by a former friend he hasn't seen in years. Throughout the investigation, his friend is murdered and Dave is driven to find out who the killer is. Going down this path leads him to more murders that are linked by a common thread - alcoholics. The story really picks up speed towards the end when it remains a mystery who the serial killer truly is. An intriguing murder mystery!
Julie
Everything I Never Told You by Celeste Ng
Pulls you in from the first chapter. Riveting story about interracial marriage, emotional isolation and how things that seem so right can go wrong. Daughter goes missing and is found dead. Each member of the family has a theory while telling their own stories of their family and their interaction with each other. The dad is passive, the mother is angry and the son seeks revenge. The key is why they all feel the way they do and how this may play an important role in what happened to the missing daughter. Good story about interracial marriage in the early 70s and how it shaped the lives of those that lived it. Particularly good story about social consequence.
Ilene
The Fallen Architect by Charles Belfoure
In 1900, at the opening of the new Britannia Empire Theatre, during a comedian’s routine, a portion of the balcony collapsed, killing fourteen and maiming many more. The blame was put on Douglas Layton, the architect and he was sent to serve a five year sentence. When coming out he was disgraced and penniless, and started drinking. His wife divorced him taking his young son from him. After trying to pull himself together, a friend tells him a new theatre in London is looking for a set painter. Since he has artistic talent he tries it, still having his charm and a new identity. Now on his own and with the help of new friends, he investigated to see if there was a reason that someone wanted to kill.
Gretchen
Paris Diversion by Chris Pavone
Fast-paced, interesting theme about the rise and fall of a stock as well as kidnapping and of course, murder.
Nancy
The Splendid and the Vile by Erik Larson
The book is so well written: grammatically correct, punctuation correctly used, easy to read footnotes, strong vocabulary. Everything a reader wants in a well-documented work of nonfiction. As a reader and former educator I want to read well written nonfiction that is informative and educates. When reading this book I felt I was right there with Churchill, his family and all the participants in this story. I will recommend this book to colleagues and friends who want to know about WWII, Roosevelt and W. Churchill leadership. The story held my attention from page one to the very last page, and included reading the footnotes and directory of names and places. Just a fascinating story.
Summer
The High Tide Club by Mary Kay Andrews
I always enjoy this author. Characters are interesting, some even eccentric. This one has intriguing mystery. It's one to pack in your beach bag.
Barbara
The Au Pair by Emma Rous
Very suspenseful filled with twists and turns. Surprises galore! Great ending.
Julia
The Wife Between Us by Greer Hendricks and Sarah Pekkanen
This book kept me guessing till the end. I wasn’t sure if the main character was unhinged herself or her husband was really manipulating her. Enjoyed how how it ended.
Julia
A Long Petal of the Sea by Isabel Allende
I enjoyed reading this novel because it gave me insight into a piece of history about the Spanish Civil War that I never knew. Spaniards fleeing the war on a vessel called The Winnepeg and sailing to Chili to make a new life. Allende is a great storyteller and I found this book a compelling read.
Amy
Big Summer by Jennifer Weiner
Great Summer read. I highly recommend it.
Tessa
The House Next Door by Anne Rivers Siddons
This work of Southern Gothic/horror fiction is a little slow to start but once it gets going it's riveting! I stayed up way too late a couple of nights "waiting for that other shoe to drop." It left me on edge and vaguely anxious; spooked by noises in the night (or in the daytime). This would be a perfect Halloween read!
Kate
Master Class by Christina Dalcher
Absolutely loved this one! It’s got all the VOX vibes, but a totally different game. And what a game it is! Where VOX focused mostly on genre - this one, it’s all about the intelligence.
Imagine your future is determined by your IQ. If your test scores are high, your future is paved in gold. Score too low…get sent away. And well, your path is definitely not going be as shiny. In MASTER CLASS one woman will do the unthinkable to get her daughter back. I am a huge Dalcher fan. She hooks you right in and settles you down into dystopian worlds that are so insanely weird and terrifying…but they also feel like they could truly happen. She just makes it feel SO REAL.
Janet
Return to Dyatlov Pass by J.H. Moncrieff
Well-written fiction story about the mystery of Dyatlov Pass in the Ural Mountains. This is a fictional account of a true story of the mystery of what happened to nine young people who disappeared from their camping site. Enjoyable until the implausible ending.
Janet
The Watch on the Fencepost by Kay DiBianca
Easy-going mystery of what happened to the main character's parents. Kate never thought it was anything but a car accident until she meets a half-sister she never knew about and everything changes. Some romance with the mystery.
Janet
Westering Women by Sandra Dallas
I found this to be a rather depressing story of a group of women traveling along the Oregon Trail to meet husbands. Lots of tragedy.
Pat
The Emissary by Marcia Meara
I have read both I and II of this novella and can’t wait for III (last of trilogy). I love ALL of Marcia’s books (she has two series of books). I met her in January in FL (she lives North of Orlando) and you won’t meet a nicer and more genuine person. She has ability in her books to grab you from the first page.
Janet
Two Like Me and You by Chad Alan Gibbs
Joyful tale of time in life of two teenagers and a well-storied older fellow.
Lori
Miss Benson's Beetle by Rachel Joyce
I'm delighted that I got the opportunity to read an advance copy of Miss Benson's Beetle. It was so refreshing to read such a unique book. It has a quirky storyline with wonderful characters, humor, mysteries, and it all works to be a wonderful read. It was exactly what I needed: very entertaining, yet with a lot of substance. The locale and circumstances are unconventional, but the relationships in the book could be related to universally. I highly recommend this book and think it would be a great choice for reading groups. Although this book is quite different, I'm sure the author's fans of THE UNLIKELY PILGRIMAGE OF HAROLD FRY will love this one, too.
Leslie
The Most Fun We Ever Had by Claire Lombardo
Loved this book!
Elizabeth
Have You Seen Me? by Kate White
Ally went to work, but not to the place she currently works. Ally ended up at the place she had worked five years ago, and then she fainted and is rushed to the hospital. Those two things were not the worst part. Ms. White always brings her readers a story that will keep you tense, totally absorbed, and in this case thinking about your memory and well-being. Are you doing all you can for your well being and your life? This book was given to me by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Dorothy
Tranquility Falls by Davis Bunn
Love all the books that David Bunn writes and this is no exception.
Loralee
The Island of Sea Women by Lisa See
This historical fiction novel by Lisa Sea was educational and well researched. It sent me down the rabbit hole of Google searching for more information. I love that! Highly recommended.
Jan
Hi Five by Joe Ide
I received this book from a Goodreads drawing. I love this series of books - this is the fourth book in the series. You have to read the book to find out why it has five in the title. Isaiah Quintabe is a very smart young detective, with very determined moral principles. He gets trapped in a mess with a gang boss whose daughter is about to be charged with murder. IQ calls in all his old debts but cannot get info. Turns out the murder was done by outside people. It is a great mystery with a lot of quirks and side stories. I have down-rated this book because of the reliance on mental illness in a very negative way. Yes, we have a lot of mental illness in this world but I prefer to see it treated, not used or abused.
Kay
The Book of Lost Friends by Lisa Wingate
This is a wonderful book which tells, in parallel timelines, the stories of Hannie in 1875 and Benny in 1987. Hannie is a freed slave traveling from Louisiana to Texas with two daughters hoping to find their father or his will and settle the inheritance of Goswood Grove plantation. Hannie hopes to find her mother and family who were sold to other slave owners. Benny is a first-year teacher in the small town of Augustine, Louisiana where Goswood Grove is located, who tries to inspire her students to research their own histories. This is a well-researched historical fiction about the bravery and trials of both of these young women as they discover "Lost Friends" and families. This is a dramatic story with a surprise ending.
Carol
Dear Mrs. Bird by A. J. Pearce
WWII story of a young woman working part-time at a failing women’s magazine. She also volunteers at the local fire department to take calls and there are many during the Blitz. Her older boss will not answer the help letters that trickle in from readers...so she does. And then there are consequences. Good read.
Myrna
Ruby & Roland by Faith Sullivan
I have read the other books she has written and feel this book is not as well written as some of her others. I used to take classes she taught at the St. Paul Campus of the University of Minnesota.
Sukhwinder
Tiny Pretty Things by Sona Charaipotra and Dhonielle Clayton
I really enjoyed this book. Yes the book was dramatic, but yes it was also very fun. I was really hooked and I loved the characters Bette and June. Gigi, on the other hand, I hated. I'm sorry but just like all the other girls I wanted her gone and didn't care how. Gigi is just so perfect she is an amazing dancer with an amazing family, who gets into an amazing school and an amazing guy starts dating her. Oh wait she also has a heart condition so we need to feel sorry for her. I just really want her gone but reading the synopsis of the second book (which I starting soon,) I don't think she's really gone just yet.
Ruth
Lost Roses by Martha Hall Kelly
Very good! Love this author.
Elizabeth
The Secrets of Love Story Bridge by Phaedra Patrick
Mitchell went from his job as an engineer to the job of removing padlocks placed by lovers on bridge railings and padlocks that were starting to weigh down the bridges. One day as Mitchell was removing the padlocks, he saw a woman falling over the edge of the railing. He jumped in after her and rescued her. Ms. Patrick has written another heartwarming book with characters you will fall in love with and a storyline that will keep you turning the pages.
Dorothy
American Dirt by Jeanine Cummins
I have really enjoyed and learning what migrants go through to try crossing the border. Also how difficult and the violence in Acapulco. Very interesting.
Joan
Harry’s Trees by Jon Cohen
While completely unbelievable in many ways, this story is also very believable. Cohen’s handling of grief from the perspective of two adults and a child was lovely. The fairy tale ending was satisfying without being too sweet.
Mrs
Lilli de Jong by Janet Benton
Historical fiction. The book was well written, but it was heartbreaking reading about the unimaginable struggle of unwed mothers in Philadelphia in 1883.
Richard N B
Around the World in 80 Days by Jules Verne
One of the books in Verne’s series of “Extraordinary Voyages” begins when Phileas Fogg accepts a wager at his gentleman’s club. I’ve seen movie adaptations, but the book is so much better.
Mary
American Dirt by Jeanine Cummins
This book is about a Mexican woman who becomes a migrant to the United States when her whole family is massacred by a drug lord. It is hard to put down because the plot is so intense and dramatic.
Becky
Sunset Beach by Mary Kay Andrews
A master of the “chick lit” genre, Andrews has written a sexy, witty, engrossing mystery. Drue, recovering from an injury, is working for her father’s law firm and hating every minute until she is berated by a woman who thinks the firm cheated her out of money. Drue and two (or maybe three) swains begin their own investigation and incur wrath and danger. Andrews' characters speak and act like real people. Her situations are the usual (boy meets girl, a situation intervenes, boy gets girl, or girl gets boy!), but Andrews finds a way to make you like the characters, believe the situation and root for the boy and girl to find happiness. Altogether a likable story, and worth your time.
