This contest period's winners were Emily C., Mary B. and Nancy H., who each received a copy of THE LAW OF INNOCENCE: A Lincoln Lawyer Novel by Michael Connelly and PIECE OF MY HEART by Mary Higgins Clark and Alafair Burke.
Kathy
Stuck in Manistique by Dennis Cuesta
The setting of this story is the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, where I grew up, so that alone intrigued me. But I was pleasantly surprised to be swept up in this novel! A young man inherits his aunt's estate in the small town of Manistique, MI and the author does a good job of sweeping the reader into the characters he meets when he goes to "visit" his inheritance. The characters come to life, and the story is both humorous and heartfelt. I liked it a lot!
Karen
The Words Between Us by Erin Bartels
It wasn’t a bad read. It keeps you interested. I really didn’t care for the end. It was too neat and tidy.
Sherri
Joy in the Morning by Betty Smith
A lovely picture of the excitement and fears of newlywed life.
Janice
Modern Comfort Food by Ina Garten
This book is Ina's best. The picture are glossy and beautiful, the recipes easy to follow and I have already prepared four entrees and four vegetable sides and next is a dessert. I highly recommend this to all of Ina's fans.
Pat
Last Bus to Wisdom by Ivan Doig
Set in 1951, the journey a young boy must make on Greyhound bus to travel to a relative when his grandmother must have a surgery. He makes some remarkable conversations with folks along the way. Great reminder of the way things were...
Elizabeth
A Time for Mercy by John Grisham
Loved it.
Jeanne
Vendetta in Death by J. D. Robb
VENDETTA IN DEATH by J. D. Robb is a real psychological thriller in the detective homicide detective series Eve Dallas. This storyline grabbed me from page one and is a nail-biting, suspenseful read. Without giving away any spoilers, the author did a great job in describing every little detail. I rated it a four because I would have preferred to learn who the killer was at the very end. That being said, I can understand the author’s reasoning for this because it turns into a cat and mouse game between Detective Dallas to catch the killer before another victim surfaces.
Jeanne
Summer of ‘69 by Elin Hilderbrand
SUMMER OF ‘69 by Elin Hilderbrand’s first historical fiction and in my opinion, she did a great job. Without giving away any spoilers, this is the story of four siblings and their parents that takes place during the tumultuous times during the summer of 1969. The author did a great job creating these characters who were likable and relatable. It’s a quick, easy to read summer beach story that encompasses growing up in uncertain, changing times.
Phoebe
An American Marriage by Tayari Jones
This book was chosen as one of the 2019 St. Catherine University Conversation with Books reads and was recently chosen as the monthly read for my neighborhood book club, now finishing up our 19th year together. I'm reminded while re-reading it about historical injustices which continue to this day and some of the parallels to JUST MERCY by Bryan Stevenson, which our club read last year.
Laura
Little Darlings by Melanie Golding
A mother of twins faces a possible abduction in the hospital. Everyone thinks she is crazy, including her husband. A second possible abduction creates a sense in the mother that her babies are now changlings. This book was very entertaining and honestly I couldn’t put it down, but I did feel like I have read this story before. It was creepy and a good Halloween read.
Sally-Jo
The Evening and the Morning by Ken Follett
I've been a fan of Ken Follett for years. He's a wonderful storyteller. I love the various characters and it's good to read a story with a happy ending.
Donna
Until I Find You by Rae Frey
Rebecca is blind, a widow and has a three-month-old son named Jackson. She's moved into her childhood home and is bonding with a group of new mothers. She is doing her best to cope with her loses. One day while visiting with her new friends at the park she has a fainting spell. When she is settled, she claims that the baby in her son's stroller is not Jackson. No one believes her, but she knows her child and won't give up on finding him until he's found.
Donna
To Tell You the Truth by Gilly Macmillan
Lucy is nine years old, living in England, is bullied and prefers her imaginary friend named Eliza. She is sneaking out of her home when her three-year-old brother becomes aware of this and wants to go along for the adventure. She arrives home at 1:37 in the morning and he isn't with her. She doesn't know where he is. As an adult, Lucy becomes a bestselling author of books where the main character is a detective named Eliza. Eliza is still very much a part of Lucy's life. Lucy's husband, Dan, is a want-to-be author and ends up taking care of everything else since Lucy is so successful.
Linda
The Answer Is...Reflections on my Life by Alex Trebek
Our book club chose this book for November; it's a lovely read, with Alex Trebek's recollections of his life. We really enjoyed each chapter and reading about his life.
Nina
Monogamy by Sue Miller
The husband of a couple dies unexpectedly. After being married for 30 years, lies, secrets, and affairs are revealed. Doubt, trust, and betrayal are explored by most of the characters involved.
Donna
Little Deadly Secrets by Pamela Crane
For 20 years, ever since college, Lily, Robin and Mackenzie have been the very best of friends. They have promised to support each other for all of their lives. They are unlikely friends as Lily is Italian, a rebel and a leader. Robin is organized, a planner and a smart, good girl. Mackenzie is a southern belle and a victim. They live in the same town and tell each other everything...except their secrets. In one week, their bond begins to disintegrate due to the secrets being revealed involving betrayal, abuse, rape, infidelity, addiction and murder. This is a well-crafted story and the reader becomes attached to each one of the women.
MH
The Wife Between Us by Greer Hendricks and Sarah Pekkanen
The twists and turns in the book were unusual and unexpected. A real page-turner.
Tessa
Virgil Wander by Leif Enger
I enjoy character-driven novels and this one perfectly fits the bill. I love Enger’s way with words, the way he paints the landscape and draws his characters who so perfectly fit the scenario he gives us. There is a spirituality, or mysticism about Enger’s storytelling that captures my attention as well. Enger’s town is small, but the people in it are larger than life. There are moments of humor and tenderness, and some evil and tragedy as well. However, the overall feeling is one of hope and resilience and of looking forward to the future, whatever it may bring.
Donna
The Emmalee Affairs by Michael Lindley
The EmmaLee is a beautiful ship that has a history. The wealthy owners of this ship spend their summers at the resort town of Charlevoix, Michigan. The locals need the business and welcome the visitors. In spite of the class difference, love can occur as well as tragedy. The EmmaLee returns to Charlevoix seventy years later after bring restored to her original glory. Another love story takes place involving the daughter of the original owners of the ship. This novel beautifully describes Charlevoix, luxury life on a ship, fly fishing and renewal.
Tessa
O Pioneers! by Willa Cather
Cather’s first novel follows one family over decades as they settle the great plains of Nebraska. The heroine is Alexandra Bergson, who takes charge of the family farm after her father dies and ensures the family’s prosperity despite setbacks. This is a strong woman! Her love of the land is evident, but she is no romantic. The story encompasses tragedy as well as triumph.
Nadine
Bitter Pill by Fern Michaels
For the Sisterhood, every mission matters. But there's a special satisfaction that comes with helping a friend in need, like Myra Rutledge's childhood friend Charlotte. After she receives a worrying letter, Myra quickly arranges for Charlotte to visit, hoping to restore her peace of mind. She learns that Charlotte has spent tens of thousands of dollars on "natural herbal remedies" as part of an innovative program to boost longevity. But far from improving her health, the medications seem to be destroying it. Myra becomes suspicious of the trio of doctors in charge of the program.
Michelle
We All Fall Down: Living With Addiction by Nic Sheff
Mostly a continuation of TWEAK, this further tells the story of Nic Sheff’s journey with addiction. Still fascinating and sad but educational, especially in the raw honestly that Sheff brings. I wish him well and hope his words help other families. I’d like to check out his novels, too, as his writing was not bad at all.
Jodi
Cloudsplitter by Russell Banks
Beautifully-written and well-researched novel about abolitionist John Brown as told by his son Owen who survived Harpers Ferry. Although it’s 700+ pages long, the fascinating characters and view of the abolitionist movement in the U.S. at a turbulent time in our nation’s history made this a great read.
Mary
Glory Road by Lauren K. Denton
I enjoyed this book because it was set in Alabama and showed deep Southern roots. I usually read historical books so this was a break for me.
Dianne
The Killings at Kingfish Hall by Sophie Hannah
Well written, new Hercule Poirot mystery.
Sheila
Musical Chairs by Amy Poeppel
This is a story of relationships - mainly Bridget and Will, friends for decades, two NYC musicians. Bridget is looking forward to spending the summer at her family home in CT with her boyfriend but unfortunately he breaks up with her. Instead. a summer of changes unfolds for Bridget, for her grown children, and for Will. This is a fantastically enjoyable and warm book that I thoroughly enjoyed.
Sheree
With the Fire on High by Elizabeth Acecedo
A wonderful book. It is an inspiring book that lets one know if you put your mind to it, you can do anything and overcome anything. It also had cooking in it - which I loved. I wish I was born with the talent to cook anything!
Janet
Louisiana Long Shot by Jana Deleon
Debbie Macomber had posted on Facebook to try out this author. I did and I loved her writing style. It's a great mystery with interesting characters that are entertaining. This one is the first in a series and I am definitely looking forward to reading more of them.
Betty
The Extraordinary Life of Sam Hell by Robert Dugoni
One of the most memorable books I have read this year! Something beautiful we needed this year.
Robin
Steadfast Love by Lauren Chandler
Great Bible study.
Jo
One Year of Ugly by Caroline Mackenzie
Slow reading and not one of my favorites.
Donna
The Forgetting Flower by Karen Hugg
Renia, a young Polish girl, has a twin sister. Renia has always wanted to live in Paris and own a flower shop. She leaves Poland with a unique plant that requires very special care. This is a one-of-a-kind plant that will cause you to forget things if you inhale its perfume. Inhaling too much can cause death. Her best friend in Paris, Alain, dies and Renia is concerned that the plant may have been the cause, not knowing if his death is an accident or suicide. Gradually and not by choice, her past reaches her and she's forced to sell flowers to criminals or suffer severe consequences. This story is about family and what you will do to protect them. I have a new appreciation of plants and was surprised that I recognized many of those.
John
Origin by J.A. Konrath
Human beings learn to make peace with a strange new life form who wishes only to help them.
Jan
The Sweeney Sisters by Lian Dolan
I received this book from a Goodreads drawing in return for an honest review. The three Sweeney sisters have gathered at their father's home after learning that he has died in his bed. He was a famous writer and loved by many. His dear friend is an attorney and is there to help them through some of the legal stuff and to give them information about the will. At the wake/party, a beautiful young woman is there but no sister seems to know her; they do know Grey, a man they all knew when they were young. He jilted the oldest Sweeney. There had been no contact for 15 years and suddenly he is there at the wake. The characters are well developed and they are the stars of this book. The book is down-rated because of the drama at the end.
Chelsie
Final Girls by Riley Sager
Very well-written first novel. THE FINAL GIRLS is about three girls who are each the lone survivor of a horrific murder event that happened to them. They somehow were the ones to survive these brutal attacks - was there a reason why? One girl has blocked it all from her memory and police, a decade later, still thinks she knows more than she claims she remembers. One final girl commits suicide and the other mysteriously shows up on Quincey's doorstep after years of being off the radar. Why now has Sam came back, and was Lisa's suicide really a suicide? Can Sam help Quincy remember what happened that night, and is someone out to finish the job the others did not? Very good, twisted thriller.
Rosa
Hieroglyphics by Jill McCorkle
I finished this book with a heavy, satisfied sigh, having relished Jill McCorkle's beautiful prose. There are two main plot lines here. Frank and Lil are an old married couple who have recently moved to North Carolina to be closer to their daughter Becca. Shelley is a single mother working as a court reporter and trying her best to raise her young son Harvey alone. Frank is desperate to see the house where he grew up, where Shelley and Harvey now reside. The characters' stories are deeply interwoven, and the reader is left to figure it all out all the way to the end. McCorkle does an extraordinary job of keeping you engaged, especially through the beginning chapters when it's not yet clear how everything is connected.
Emily
Beauty in the Broken Places by Allison Pataki
At the age of thirty, David Levy, Allison’s husband, had a rare life-threatening stroke. Her beautifully-written memoir is an account of love, faith, and resilience during those dark days. As she demonstrates, there is beauty in the broken places.
Debbie
A Time for Mercy by John Grisham
One of the best he has written. Kept me up three nights running because I just had to see what would happen next.
Carol
Squeeze Me by Carl Hiassen
The author's usual craziness but not one of his best. If you are a Trump fan you will not enjoy this book as he is the brunt of most of the "poking fun at."
Carol
Cuyahoga by Pete Beatty
This was like reading a Paul Bunyon knock-off.
Tessa
A Rule Against Murder by Louise Penny
3.5 stars. Book Four in the Chief Inspector Armand Gamache mystery series, set in and around Three Pines, Quebec. This time he’s pressed into service when a murder occurs at an isolated resort where he and his wife are celebrating their wedding anniversary. I love Gamache and the deliberate way he goes about investigating cases.
Francisca
Winter Solstice by Rosamunde Pilcher
Five very different people, ranging in age from teen-aged to mid-sixties, converge on a Scottish cottage just before Christmas. The novel changes perspective with each chapter so the reader gets to know the characters slowly, learning what is important to each as they go about their lives. It’s a charmingly told story, and I grew to love these characters. This reminded me of Maeve Binchy’s books. This is the first book by Pilcher that I’ve read; it won’t be the last.
shelly
Finding You Again by Debbie Macomber
Ms. Macomber put two short stories in this book. "White Lace and Promises" and "Jury of her Peers." Maggie and Glenn were best friends when they were children. They each moved on with their lives but are reunited at their friend's wedding. Are they each feeling the same sparks for each other? Love is definitely in the air and they seem to have caught it. On a quick and impulsive decision they decide to go to Las Vegas and get married leaving the wedding early. Will they be able to keep the romance alive? A book about rediscovering what they had as children and seeing if they are now older and continue to feel the same way about each other.
Y Rene
How to Walk Away by Katherine Center
Great book! Really gives you some things to ponder. Never once did my interest lag as there was something always right around the corner. A really good book to come home to in the afternoons.
Rene
What You Wish For by Katherine Center
Good book but I was not impressed at all by the audio version because of the voice. It made the story seen childish and silly more times than not. I think had I read the book myself, I would have come away with a different feeling towards the book. Read it, do not listen to it.
Vesna
Ties That Tether by Jane Igharo
Quick and easy read about a Nigerian woman, Azere, living in Canada and her struggle to balance her roots and her current feelings as a Canadian immigrant. Story about her struggles with her deathbed promise to her father to marry a Nigerian and to always stick to her foundation of where she and her family come from. A tale of struggle to do what her heart pulls her to do, the mother daughter relationship that Azere is clinging on to out of duty, and the new man in her life who is nothing like what she promised her dying father. A fast read; you can connect with the characters easily. Enjoyed it very much.
FRAN
The Last Trial by Scott Turow
As well written as all of Turow's prior novels. Intricate and informative re: drug trials and legal ramifications of putting new cancer drugs on the market.
Nancy
The California Girls by Susan Mallory
I enjoyed reading this book. It is about three sisters who have their lives fall apart at the same time. Finola has a TV talk show. Just before one show, her husband shows and says he is leaving her for a young pop star who happens to be the guest on her program that day. Fennie cannot seem to find love at all. Her latest boy friend breaks up with her. Her best friend finds out she cannot have children, so Fennie agrees to have one for her. Ali is in the middle of making wedding plans when the brother of her husband-to-be comes to tell her Glen has decided to call off the wedding. Ali, of course, is heartbroken and she has all the wedding plans to cancel. Glen's brother helps her with all this.
shelly
Fairytale Christmas with the Millionaire by Jennifer Faye
This delightful story definitely reminds me of Cinderella. Alina Martin lives in a rent-controlled building along with her stepmother and her two stepsisters. Shortly, after her father passes away she lives on her own in the building. Graham Toliver is now becoming the CEO since his dad passed away rather suddenly. The Stirling must be torn down. Although Alina does not have any real family (forget her stepmother and two stepsisters) she has the love and friendship of the tenants in the building. They are worried as to where are they going to find an apartment in Manhattan that they can afford. Alina meets with Graham and tries to persuade him to not tear down the building saying where are all these people going to find a place to live.
Elizabeth
Our Little Cruelties by Liz Nugent
What a family. Not a favorite - didn't like any of the characters.
Becky
The Exiles by Christina Baker Kline
Evangeline, a young governess, is arrested on a false charge and “transported” to Australia. Her lover does not rescue her and she bears his child on the ship. In the 1840s, Britain sent thousands of “undesirables” to exile in Australia. Kline’s book tells the story of jailing and transport from the viewpoint of an educated young woman fallen on hard times and her child. Even after transport, the exiles were still jailed and then “rented out” during the day in what amounted to slave labor until their sentences were served. The hardships of jail life and transport are set forth in detail. A parallel story is the true experience of Mathinah, a young Aboriginal woman taken from her ancestral home.
Becky
A Bridge Across the Ocean by Susan Miessner
I don’t usually like “ghost” stories, but this one was intriguing. Give it a chance. After WWII many American GIs married the women they came to know and love while overseas. This book tells the story of three of them.
Becky
No Judgements by Meg Cabot
When a hurricane hits the small beach town in Florida Bree has escaped to in order to reassess her life, she finds that many left their animals behind. Bree decides to help as many of these bereft animals as she can when the bridge to the island is washed out. Owners who expected to be gone just a day or two left behind many animals now trapped in empty homes. Bree and several friends, including a heart throb, work to save the animals while Bree’s former boyfriend and her mother attempt to convince her to flee back to the big city and her former fiance’s money and power. A light romantic comedy that is well written and has believable characters.
Becky
Savannah Breeze by Mary Kay Andrews
BeBe, a formerly rich Southern belle, is reduced to remodeling her family’s rundown motel after a con man takes her money and most of her worldly goods. Her friends come to her aid when she determines to con the con man and get her money back – and remodel the motel into a magical get-away at the same time. A fun read by a master of the genre. You will enjoy this ramp through the motel business.
Marsha
Hello Summer by Mary Kay Andrews
I was expecting a beach story, but this turned into a suspenseful tale. Newspaper owner Grayson is joined by out of work reporter and sister Conley. Their small town is rocked by a U.S. congressman's murder and they are working over time and finding unexpected clues from long ago events.
Katrina
Invisible Girl by Lisa Jewell
Lisa Jewell is one of my favorite authors and I always typically rate her books with a 4 or 5 stars. This book captured my interests from the first chapter and kept me hooked until the last page. I finished this book in two days. There was many twists and turns throughout the book and a final twist at the end. I absolutely loved this novel.
Cindee
Dreaming Death by Heather Graham
A new edition in the series Krewe of Hunters. I enjoyed the suspense and loved the paranormal elements.
Elizabeth
The Transatlantic Book Club by Felicity Hayes-McCoy
Readers who enjoy family connections over generations, nostalgic scenes, and joining in on a book club should enjoy THE TRANSATLANTIC BOOK CLUB.
Trez
The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett
Very interesting and also confusing.
Marsha
Shamed by Linda Castillo
A Kate Burkholder mystery. Police chief Kate is trying to solve the case of a murdered Amish grandmother and a kidnapped seven-year-old grandchild. More murders and clues from long ago events make a very suspenseful tale. Not a good bedtime story!
ELIZABETH
A Trace of Deceit by Karen Odden
Oh, what people do for a work of art. They steal, they connive, and they even commit murder. There is plenty of tension and good sleuthing along with a bit of romance.
Tessa
Finders Keepers by Stephen King
Book Two in the Bill Hodges trilogy, featuring the former detective, now a PI, and his team of misfits and amateurs. King is a master crafter of the suspense genre. He keeps the reader turning pages while offering complex characters and motivations.
Thomas
Shakeup by Stuart Woods
Very good read.
Linda
Imaginary Friend by Stephen Chbosky
Christopher and his mom escaped an abusive partner and moved to a small town in Pennsylvania. Christopher disappears one night and when he comes home seven days later strange things begin to occur. The book is way too long, 750 pages, and too many characters only appear infrequently.
Beth
The Half Wives by Stacia Pelletier
THE HALF WIVES is the excellent story of a former Lutheran minister, Henry, his wife Marilyn, his lover Lucy, and his eight-year-old daughter by Lucy, Blue. The entire book is a day in their lives, the anniversary of the birth and death of Henry’s and Marilyn’s child. The predicament they are in is obvious and is seen, chapter by chapter, through the eyes of one of these characters or the other. That is what makes this book great. Stacia Pelletier presents all the various viewpoints and makes you understand and care about each character, even as they seem to be working against each other.
Linda
The Color of Air by Gail Tsukiyama
Heartwarming story of a Japanese-American community in Hilo, Hawaii. Promises made to Japanese immigrants to work in the sugar cane fields did not disclose how backbreaking the work was, but the people came together and long-lasting friendships were made. Daniel Abe left the island for school and became a doctor in Chicago until a misdiagnosis made him quit and return to his friends on the island. As the ferry pulled into the harbor, he could see the smoke from Mauna Loa. His uncle Koji was among his friends at the dock to welcome him home. Daniel did not realize how much he missed the islands and now he's home. I received the book from Bookreporter.com and thoroughly enjoyed the book.
Linda
Fight for Me by Corinne Michaels
Declan Arrowood and Sydney Hastings have been together since children. No one was more surprised and hurt than Sydney when Declan said he did not want to marry her and he was leaving town. He thought it would be best not to get her involved in the mess created by his father when he killed two people in an automobile accident and left the scene. His sons all left town, vowing never to return. The next time Sydney saw Declan was at his father’s funeral. Now he is back to stay on the farm for six months to comply with his father’s will and Sydney has no idea how she will get through it when she is still madly in love with him. She tells him to fight for her and the love they still have for each other.
Linda
In a Holidaze by Christina Lauren
Maelyn Jones goes with her family to spend Christmas at a family get-together in Utah. Strange things occurred to her that sent her back in time to repeat parts of the holiday. She had wanted to know what would make her happy with her life and fate had sent her back to find it. She had had a crush on Andrew Hollis ever since she was thirteen, but how did Andrew feel about her? She's about to find out. I was never a fan of the movie Groundhog Day but liked the romance between Maelyn and Andrew. They did move pretty fast, but she had been wanting him for quite a while and he was not one to turn her down.
Linda
Say Yes to the Duke by Eloisa James
When Devin Elstan, the Duke of Wynter, meets Viola Astley at a ball, he knows he has met his future duchess. He just has to convince her of that. Viola thinks she is in love with the handsome vicar but he is already betrothed. The more she is around Devin, she realizes that her supposed love for the vicar was just a school-girl crush. Devin is the man for her.
Linda
The Order by Daniel Silva
Gabriel Allon receives a call from his friend Archbishop Luigi Donati, private secretary to Pope Paul VII. The pope is dead and suspicious circumstances surround his death mainly having to do with Cardinal Albanese who found him and the missing Swiss Guard who was supposedly on duty at the time. Gabriel learns about a far-right side of the church called the Order of St. Helena. This group has plans to put their “man” into the position of Pope. That would be the wrong direction for the church and must not be allowed. Now the cardinals have to elect a new pope and Luigi hopes it will no be Albanese. Thanks to Bookreporter.com for the book as I am a big fan of Daniel Silva and Gabriel Allon.
Martha
Caste by Isabel Wilkerson
How appropriate to be reading Caste during the election. Looking at our American culture through the eyes of a writer who understands our caste system helps me understand the division among us so much better. I would hope this book wins the National Book Award for nonfiction. Wilkerson writes with a depth of understanding in most readable prose. I didn't think she could write a better book than her THE WARMTH OF OTHER SUNS, which covers the Great Migration of African Americans from the South to the North, East, and West. I was wrong. Every American needs to read this book.
Myrna
Wunderland by Jennifer Cody Epstein
A powerful look at Nazi Germany's effect on friendship, when best young girlfriends find themselves on opposite sides of Hitler's anti-Semitic crusade.
Pat
The Wonder Boy of Whistlestop by Fannie Flagg
What a treat to revisit some of the beloved characters from The Whistlestop Cafe! This goes back from present to past so we can discover what happened to those folks who charmed us with their small town concern for one another. Just what I needed to affirm the goodness of folks in difficult times.
Melissa
The Paris Secret by Natasha Lester
I love historical fiction. This was written from a new perspective that I had not heard before. Love the tie-ins from past to now.
Donna
The Last Correspondent by Soraya M. Lane
This historical fiction novel is based on some true experiences of several female war correspondents (photographers and writers) during WWII. Women were not given the same privilege as men. They were not to be on the front lines. They were strong and determined. The restrictions did not stop them from finding ways to show the people back home what war is really like. This was an eye-opening account of the dedication, the fearlessness and strength of these women.
Vesna
Once More for Christmas by Sarah Morgan
Delightful Christmas story about family and the secrets we keep that we think will protect our loved ones, but in truth do the opposite. Follow these sisters and their mother as they take a trip to the Scottish Highlands where they come together after not speaking with each other for five years. A tale of love, forgiveness, understanding and the price of family secrets.
Angela
The Lions of Fifth Avenue by Fiona Davis
This book was amazing. It started out with a mother of two in 1913 wanting to go to Columbia School of Journalism. While her husband is a novelist and the Superintendent of the New York Public Library where rare books keep coming up missing. In the other timeline of 1993 Sadie is trying to become curator of the New York Public Library. Rare books are coming up missing and she doesn't know how it's connected to her family until her mother leaves a clue after she passes away. Its a great mystery right up until the end.
Emily
The Night Swim by Megan Goldin
Rachel Krall became the hottest true crime podcast host after setting free an innocent man. Now, she is heading to a small town of Neapolis to cover a rape case trial for her new season. She starts to receive some mysterious letters begging her to seek justice for Jenny Stills, who was disturbingly drowned twenty-five years ago, and then gets herself tangled in the complexity of some heinous conspiracy. I was authentically absorbed in its consistent suspense right from the beginning till the end.
Emily
Little Deadly Secrets by Pamela Crane
Robin, Lily and McKenzie have forged their friendships at college, and have made a lifelong pact since. Nonetheless, each of them has her own skeleton in the closet; and one night of the trio’s reunion has got them into an irrevocable trouble. Layers upon layers of complicated problems have pulled these three women into a dark odyssey of entwined web of secrets and lies, which would threaten to shatter their companionships entirely. I enjoyed tremendously this thriller, and highly recommend it to fans of psychological thrillers.
Emily
The Only Good Indians by Stephen Graham Jones
Be careful what you sow because you reap what you sow. Ten years ago, four young American Indians went hunting and had killed some elks, illegally, and they had no idea what would be the consequences of their actions. Fast forward to present day, the 10th anniversary of the said killing, one of these Indians keeps encountering some unexplainable hideous incidents until…I was on the edge of my seat reading this creepy and suspenseful horror thriller.
Janet
The Chalice and the Blade by Jennifer Lynn
The author seemed to effortlessly use her faith and knowledge to portray the main character, Bree MacLeod, in her own light. I didn't need to read the first two books in this series to know that this woman is experiencing life altering pain and somehow needs to go between St. Louis and the Otherworld to find how to live with her choices.
Pat
Ashes by Sharon Gloger Friedman
I absolutely loved this book. By page 50 I had tears In my eyes. The author told this story so well, you felt as if you knew the characters personally. The facts and details in the story were very accurate. It was very hard to put this book down and I read it in two days. The ending has me sobbing for the families in the book and in the families that had actually lived through the events depicted in the book. I would highly recommend this book for people who like historical fiction.
Elizabeth
The Silence by Kendra Elliott
First book I read by her. Will definitely read more.
Laurie
On Ocean Boulevard by Mary Alice Monroe
Fast-paced multi-generational (3) saga of the Rutledge family set in Charleston, South Carolina. A pleasant read that dealt with relationships, Illness, environmental science experts plus interesting information about nesting turtles.
Lynn
Chances Are... by Richard Russo
I had forgotten how much I like his books until I recently watched the film adaptation of EMPIRE FALLS. I went looking for his latest book and this is it. The character development and internal lives of his characters are just great. Good dialogue, too!
Jeanne
Home at Last by Judith Keim
HOME AT LAST by Judith Keim is part of the amazing Chandler Hill series and was a wonderful reading experience. I love this author’s books and this one was exceptional. Without giving away any spoilers, the characters were likable, charming and realistic, and the storyline was heartwarming and so enjoyable and easy to read. Judy Keim is one of my favorite authors because her books captivate readers from page one and you simply can’t wait to see what happens next. Rating it a five is inadequate because it definitely deserves a ten.
Jeanne
The Spitfire Girls by Soraya M. Lane
THE SPITFIRE GIRLS by Soraya M. Lane is a brilliantly-written story about three strong, courageous women who were determined to carve out a place for themselves by volunteering despite all the odds and people against them to do their part in World War II by flying planes. It is a heartwarming story full of tears, loss, bravery, pride and joy. Without giving away any spoilers, the author did an excellent job in creating these realistic, likable, admirable characters and it is historical fiction at its best.
Ann Marie
Transcendent Kingdom by Yaa Gyasi
Absolutely terrific book and very important to the world as we've come to know it today.
MH
The Extraordinary Life of Sam Hell by Robert Dugoni
Ordinarily I don’t like books that jump back and forth in time, but this one changed time at just the right moment, keeping my interest in the later part of the story while I waited on the more exciting action in the earlier part of Sam’s life. The story of a boy born with albino eyes and the unwavering faith of his mother that he could overcome the challenges caused by his condition.
Linda
My Sister's Grave by Robert Dugoni
Great debut novel. I look forward to reading more books by this author. Good plot twists.
Linda
The Girl With Seven Names by Hyeonseo Lee
This is a memoir of her escape from North Korea. I learned so much about life in North Korea that wasn't taught in our history books. I am awed by her courage and saddened by all the hardships she faced throughout her life.
Linda
Breaking Creed by Alex Kava
This is the first novel in the Ryder Creed series. I just discovered this author and really like her characters and the introduction of service dogs in her story. I will continue to read the other books in this series.
Margie
Tea by the Sea by Donna Hemans
Well written, holds your interest, interesting characters.
Sherri
Before She Was Helen by Caroline B. Cooney
Fun and intriguing. The best part is that I won it in a Bookreporter.com contest! Thanks!
Rhonda
Call of the Raven by Wilbur Smith
Well-written prequel to the Ballantyne series.
Sean
The Last Day by Andrew Hunter Murray
I really enjoyed this debut novel by Andrew Hunter Murray. The book is set in a horrible future where the Earth stops rotating killing millions. The event isn't the crux of the story, it's the plight of the strong female protagonist, Hopper. She's a believable character that isn't defined by her looks (not sure I even know what she looks like) or how she can assist a man. The book could just be the first in a series as this world is ripe for storytelling from multiple angles. I really enjoyed it.
Betty Jo
The Book of Lost Names by Kristin Harmel
WWII Holocaust story which never gets old and is always interesting. This novel is set in France and involves underground work saving Jewish children from the Nazi army. Quick read and satisfying ending making for a perfect pandemic book.
Sheree
Sometimes I Lie by Alice Feeney
A great book! I would highly recommend it!
Sandra
The Queen’s Secret by Karen Harper
I love books that bring actual people to life in a fictional setting. This book about Britain’s wartime queen, Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother, is a fascinating look at a very intriguing woman.
Wendy
Shakeup by Stuart Woods
This book is a continuation of Woods's books starring Stone Barrington. I have read all his books. They are an easy, entertaining mystery but I must say that I am getting tired of every woman he meets jumping in bed with him. I think Woods should add some reality to his stories.
Rosemary
Anxious People by Fredrik Backman
Using his zany sense of humor, Fredrik Backman addresses very serious subjects in his usual humorous way. The story entails suicide, bank robbery, hostage taking and discrimination in bank lending and will have you laughing your head off at least half the time. He also addresses sexual prejudice and the problems of aging in today's society that will get you thinking serious thoughts while chuckling at the story as he presents it. A more than fitting follow-up to his A MAN CALLED OVE. Same serious subjects treated with tact and humor. Something to take your mind off Covid-19, at least for a while!
Suzanne
Haunted by James Patterson and James O. Born
This is a Michael Bennett detective book. A fast read but I would not call it a thriller. Michael Bennett has ten children which makes for a different life from most. He has an Irish girlfriend who lives with him and takes care of the family. Add a grandfather that is a priest living next door and we have an uncommon family life besides being a homicide detective and solving murders. I could put down this book but would like to know what the future holds for the characters. The ending made you want to know more.
Dianne
The New Girl by Danial Silva
Another exciting Gabrial Allon adventure. These stories never get old.
Terry
Sherlock Holmes and the Beast of the Stapletons by James Lovegrove
A follow up to classic THE HOUND OF THE BASKERVILLES, Sherlock doesn’t miss a step in this timeless story. Picked up five years after the monstrous hound is killed, Sherlock and Watson are summoned to Stapleton to help Sir Henry who recently lost his wife to an evil bloodsucking vampire. Could it be that Jack Stapleton wasn’t killed by the hound? This story is delightfully slow-paced and steady, well written and for fans of a Sherlock, a must-read.
Sherrie
The Wife Upstairs by Rachel Hawkins
I loved this wild story, THE WIFE UPSTAIRS, and I couldn't put it down. It's the story of a down-on-her-luck young dog walker in a ritzy neighborhood. This girl, Jane, meets a handsome man, Eddie, in the neighborhood who recently lost his wife. One thing leads to another, and very quickly, they are engaged and planning a wedding. Things begin to change, people become suspicious and the story take a run off from there. Great ending with a twist. Great book to start your new year!
Melinda
Grand by Sara Schaefer
Hilariously funny. Great adventure!
Anita
Once Upon a River by Diane Setterfield
I had difficulty getting through this book. It just seemed to drag. It's about a young girl, found in the river and thought to be dead. However, surprise, she is alive. No one knows who she belongs to and she is not speaking. She appears to be about four years old. One couple is sure she is their missing granddaughter, another thinks she is their daughter who was kidnapped two years before, and a third middle-aged woman thinks she is her sister. Though I must say it was very well written, and I enjoyed the mystery part of the book, I did not like the fairy tale, fantasy parts very much.
Katherine
Robinson Crusoe by Daniel Defoe
A great read for these uncertain times. We loved seeing how someone could be isolated for a very long time and still maintain sanity!
Debra
The Library Book by Susan Orlean
This book is filled with mystery, history and very creative literary connections. So many topics to discuss, a great book club read.
Nadine
Have You Seen Luis Velez? by Catherine Ryan Hyde
Raymond doesn’t have any friends, so no one really understands what a kind young man he is. At least, not until his neighbor Millie Gutermann asks him a very strange question: Do you know Luis Velez? Going between his divorced parents’ homes, Raymond has never felt wanted. Raymond has a big heart, which so far he has opened to a stray cat hiding in the basement of an abandoned building. When he realizes that Millie, a blind 92-year-old woman, has lost the man who used to check in on her, making sure she got to the bank and grocery store, he takes over. Raymond also decides to track down Luis.
Betty
Camino Winds by John Grisham
I felt the first half of the book repeated itself. It just was not that interesting to me. The nursing home topic was interesting and deserved more coverage than Grisham spent on it.
Sandy
You Betrayed Me by Lisa Jackson
Didn't get much done in the house or in the yard till I finished this one!! Couldn't put it down. Had to find out what happened to Megan! The ending was excellent. I recommend this one highly to all who love thrillers.
Margo
And the Answer Is... by Alex Trebek
I loved this book, very interesting read , true Canadian, always tells it like it is. Amazing man, great book.
Betty
The Absolutist by John Boyne
Very dense, beautifully written set after World War I in England.
shelly
The Friends We Keep by Susan Mallery
All of us need friends to whom we can talk to and discuss our problems. In this book, we are introduced to three different women: Gabby Schaefer who is counting the days till she can return to work after spending the last five years home with her twin daughters, Nicole Lord who is trying to deal with the divorce of her husband and being both mom and dad to her young son, and Hayley Batchelor wants nothing more than to become pregnant and have a child of her own. Each woman will face challenges that are not expected. Is it worth risking your life to have a baby? Can Gabby and her husband agree that she has the right to choose what she wants to do?
Margaret
Anxious People by Fredrik Backman
It's been a long time since I've given a book 5 stars but I enjoyed this enough to do just that! Fredrik Backman is one of my favorite authors and I am convinced that he possesses a special insight into the human condition. Novel is beautifully written and uplifting while it deals with serious subjects like suicide, mental health, guilt, parenting, regrets, and marriage. Mr. Backman interjects laugh-out-loud humor constantly throughout the novel. The protagonist is a bumbling bank robber who tries to rob a cashless bank, then inadvertently takes eight hostages at an apartment open-house. The hostages have a host of problems of their own, but eventually find they have a lot in common.
Julie
One by One by Ruth Ware
Good.
Jan
Where I Come From by Rick Bragg
I love Bragg's writing. We were both born in hill country - about 60 miles apart. I never met him but some of my relatives knew him and his family. I recognize the people he writes about; some of them are probably my relatives. I recognize the songs, the food, the hunting, the trouble-making of others. The few relatives I have who still live around there would not read his work. But the important part is that he writes truth. He writes about the folks in the Deep South and those of us who have left but still have fond memories. Both Bragg and I have wonderful memories of growing up, not realizing we were poor. If you want to know what "deep" South is, read this book.
Jan
Trader of Secrets by Steve Martini
I received this book from a Goodreads drawing in exchange for an honest review. Either I have changed or Martini has changed. I suspect it is me. Martini is still a great writer and so easy to zoom through. This is the first Martini mystery I have read in several years. It was just too much. Too many people, too much description, too many places, too many clues, too many red herrings. It is a rip-roaring mystery but we get too many clues (like the beginning when Sarah is targeted). Some parts are just not that mysterious (like when the kid grabs the bag and races off on his motorcycle). I think I like less action these days and more true complexity - not so much waking up in a different country every day. A great, quick book.
Cris
Roadwork by Stephen King writing as Richard Bachman
This is one of the older books Stephen King published under his nom de plume, Richard Bachman. It is not a horror story. It is the story of a desperate man who will go to any extreme in order to save his home from being demolished to make way for a new highway extension. When he realizes he can't stop the roadwork, he goes off the deep end.
Mary Ann
Sea Wife by Amity Gaige
This book was recommended by one of my favorite authors, Elin Hilderbrand.
Lindy
Never Have I Ever by Joshilyn Jackson
Page-turner. Interesting storyline with intriguing characters you had to love or hate.
Darla
Piece of My Heart by Mary Higgins Clark and Alafair Burke
Mary Higgins Clark, you finished well. Your decision to collaborate with Alafair Burke on the "Under Suspicion" series" has given us one more book as part of your legacy. Since I read WHERE ARE YOUR CHILDREN I have been a faithful MHC fan. It is so sad to be reading her last work. With all her hallmark touches in place, it seems like she is not really gone. We have an extensive cast of characters, the short staccato chapters, the classic red herrings, and the satisfying finish. Well done, Mary Higgins Clark. Thank you for leaving us behind so many titles that we can read to revisit your genius.
Richard N B
Get Shorty by Elmore Leonard
This was just plain fun. I’d never seen the movie (starring John Travolta as Chili and Gene Hackman as Harry), so had no real idea what to expect, other than a wild ride. And Leonard definitely delivers that.
Tessa
Angels at the Table by Debbie Macomber
This is a typical schmaltzy Christmas romance with more than a little humor thrown in. Some of the situations are downright ridiculous, and the angels, for all their good intentions, seem mostly inept. But it’s a fun read and everything turns out okay in the end.
Jan
Shuggie Bain by Douglas Stuart
I understand that so many people love this book. It is poverty porn, pure and simple. The entire book plays on the poverty of almost everyone in the book. There is poverty of money, home, love, food, inspiration, schooling - all things. And no sense that any character understands that actions have consequences. This is a depressing book; many books are, but this one drowns in depression, anger, disgust with self and others, manipulation, theft, abandonment (especially of children) and alcoholism. It is a debut novel. There is nothing upbeat or encouraging about this book, no depth of character, no inspiration - just poverty of all kinds. I really did not gain anything valuable from reading this book.
Jan
The Nightworkers by Brian Selfon
This is a debut novel from someone who has spent his life working in criminal justice, so we can believe that he knows what he is writing about. This novel had depth, kindness, love, concern - lots of good stuff among the three main characters, a man who provides a home for a nephew and a niece, who would would be homeless except for him. As the nephew explains early in the book, his Uncle Shecky is in the money business - "adjustable-interest loans, interest-only home loans, mortgages, LLCs, PACs, and profitable non-profits." Uncle Shecky is a kind man, caring for the relatives, and making a lot of money. He is also very smart and is teaching the nephew his business. A beautiful book about the bottom-feeders in our society.
Helen
The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett
Wonderful saga of two sisters who at age sixteen leave their home and create new lives. One passes as white, one as black. The choices they make and relationships they form create a riveting story, especially during our current times.
ELIZABETH
The Star-Crossed Sisters of Tuscany by Lori Nelson Spielman
LOVED, LOVED, LOVED this book. THE STAR-CROSSED SISTERS OF TUSCANY is a delightful, pick-you-up and a book that will keep the characters in mind even after you turn the last page.
It is about family and living your life to the fullest and loving like there’s no tomorrow. And...if you like secrets, there is a huge family one that gets uncovered.
Liz
Moon Water by Pam Webber
It’s the summer of 1969 in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, and sixteen-year-old Nettie and her best friend Win are about to embark on an adventurous summer. Nibi, Win’s grandmother, is a Monacan Indian with special powers. Nibi tells the girls they must each build a very specific dream catcher, it will take many weeks and must be done exactly. The girls do as they are told and face many challenges in between. The parts of the story concerning local folklore and traditions was interesting. However, I found it a bit unbelievable that in 1969 these girls were allowed to go alone, traipsing through the woods and up the mountains for days at a time.
Rose
The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett
I know this isn’t a popular opinion, but I struggled through this book. While it was well written, I felt it dragged on for me. It is the story of two sisters, Desiree and Stella, twins who are very light-skinned blacks. Desiree and Stella run away from their small town of Maynard, LA to New Orleans. From there, Desiree moved to DC and married Sam, a very dark black man, had a daughter, Jude (also very dark). Desiree leaves Sam as he is abusive and returns to her hometown. Stella moved to Boston and then CA, having married her boss, a white man, who doesn’t know that Stella is black. They have a daughter, Kennedy (light skinned blonde with violet eyes). Stella lives her life in fear that someone will discover her secret and expose her.
Rose
Blacktop Wasteland by S. A. Cosby
Wow, this is a gritty, raw novel about a black man, Beauregard/Bug, who is trying to be a good husband and father. He has 2 sons with his wife Kia, and a daughter from a previous relationship. Beauregard owns a garage, but it has fallen on hard times because another auto shop has moved into the area and has taken a lot of business from Beauregard. With his mother in a nursing home with mounting bills, and the garage business suffering, Beauregard has a lot of debt. Beauregard’s father abandoned his family when Beauregard was a young boy. But, Beauregard still looks up to his father as a hero although he wasn’t one. Beauregard hangs on to his father’s Duster as a tribute to his dad, using it to hustle people by drag racing them. Read this!!
Carol
The Undoing Project by Michael Lewis
Good history of the study of human psychology. Takes a little while to get interesting.
mary
Mornings in Jenin by Susan Abulhawa
This is the story of Amal living her life through the years of the destructive Palenstinian-Israeli conflict, starting in 1948. The story is slow-moving at times, but always moving in spirit. The struggles these people must endure is almost beyond our belief. The writing style is beautiful, emanating the true spirit of people and moving meaningfully through the times. Well worth the read. Give it time.
ELIZABETH
The Night of the Fire by Kjell Eriksson
Who started the fire that killed three people? Someone knows but isn’t telling. Then there is another fire. THE NIGHT OF THE FIRE was a different read and a bit slow for me because of the setting and the names of the characters, but it was interesting. I may have been a bit lost since it was the first one I read in the series, but I did like most of the characters, and the writing is well done. Thank you to St. Martin’s for giving me a chance to get to know these characters.
Tessa
French Pressed by Cleo Coyle
This is Book Six in the Coffeehouse Mystery series, and I’m really enjoying them. I do think that Clare’s insistence on investigating on her own is a bit over-the-top, but it wouldn’t be a cozy mystery without an intrusive amateur sleuth. This episode really delves into foodie culture which had me salivating in places. Not a fan of the cliff-hanger ending, but that’s a pet peeve of mine. Still, I found it deliciously entertaining – a perfect “escape” read.
Mona
Little Bandaged Days by Kyra Wilder
Erika is a fish out of water, an isolated fish. The good news is her husband, M, got a coveted promotion. The bad news is Erika, along with her children E and baby B, have to pack up and leave their family, friends, and life for Geneva. Moving is hard enough, but to a place where both the language and the culture is foreign. But, she is proud of M and will support him (even when he's practically NEVER around). They will make it through this transition. Or will they...?
Mona
The Lakehouse by Joe Clifford
A body of a young woman has washed ashore. Right next door to Greg's lake house. The investigation that follows is messy, implicating and exposing many Covenant residents, including the chief's own daughter. Nobody, including myself, could have imagined who the culprit was.
Divided into four parts, representing the change of seasons and told from alternating perspectives, this was an absorbing thriller that kept me guessing.
Amy
Miss Benson's Beetle by Rachel Joyce
Great story of secrets, longings, and friendships.
