This contest period's winners were Cecilia H., Hailey F. and Lindy Lou D., who each received a copy of THE DARK HORSE: An Orphan X Novel by Gregg Hurwitz and THE MAGNIFICENT LIVES OF MARJORIE POST by Allison Pataki by Megan Abbott.
Kay
Death in Cornwall by G. M. Malliet
This Cornish village is over-obviously set to mirror Doc Martin's Port Wynn location. The characters are agonizingly "overdone", the dialog is stilted and the plot contrived.
Rose
The Cat Who Saved Books by Sosuke Natsukawa
Reading this book today came at the right time, a time when books are being banned in the U.S. because some people object to them. This book highlights how important books are and what they do for us: help us grow, learn, explore. Most importantly, books help us to show empathy.
The book begins when Rintaro Natsuki inherits a secondhand bookshop from his grandfather. Since Rintaro is a high school student, he plans to close it and move in with an aunt. But, a talking cat appears in the shop and tells Rintaro that he needs help saving books, taking them on a journey to free the books from people who misunderstand their usefulness and true worth.
The journey takes them through several labyrinths. For all book lovers!
Samantha
A Very Nice Girl by Imogen Crimp
Written in the stylistic hue similar to that of Sally Rooney, Imogen Crimp paints a narrative of the ever-hopeless, yet bittersweet life experiences that come along with being in your mid twenties...especially in the digital age. Anna lives the Londoner life, barely making ends meet and spending hours in Conservatory where she's studying to be an Opera singer, trying to make her big break amongst the vast, interconnected panel of professionals who could deem the security of her future. As she meets Max, the late-30s money man, she becomes entranced by his ways and mesmerized with his presence, even though he's voiced it loud and clear that he's just looking for some fun instead of a relationship.
Liz
The Four Winds by Kristin Hannah
The 1930s in America was a very harsh time. Millions of people are out of work, there is a drought threatening the farm land and the dust storms in the Midwest are destroying everything. This story puts the reader right into the Great Depression. It is also about a mother’s love and what she is willing to endure for her children. It is a heartbreaking story about survival and the story is told brilliantly.
Vivian
The Christie Affair by Nina de Gramont
Where was Agatha Christie during the more than a week when she disappeared? This book tells this story through the eyes of the mistress of her husband, a very interesting take on the matter.
Debra
'Twas the Mystery Before Christmas by Kimberley O'Malley
Fabulous mystery. It is a must-read for all mystery lovers.
Loralee
The Things We Cannot Say by Kelly Rimmer
A great story and very discussion-worthy for our book group.
Joni
The Rose Code by Kate Quinn
Wonderfully researched and written (although a bit too long). I learned so much about the workings of Bletchley Park during WWII. A very enjoyable read.
Joni
The Lincoln Highway by Amor Towles
Another wonderful tale by a great storyteller. This one is about three 18 year olds and an 8 year old boy on a road trip from Nebraska to California by way of New York. If GPS was available in 1950s it would be telling them, "You missed your turn!" As usual he has supporting characters that are interesting enough for their own stories and add immeasurably to the main one. The book is a bit too long and the ending leaves many questions that need answers. But over all it is a charming story.
Jeanne
The Vineyard at Painted Moon by Susan Mallery
THE VINEYARD AT PAINTED MOON by Susan Mallery is an outstanding, heartwarming novel that deals with broken love, sadness, heartbreak, family drama and second chances. It is well written. The author did a great job in creating and crafting the characters. They were relatable and likable, except for Barbara. I loved, loved, loved this book and it is one of those books that you know you want to read again. I hated to see it end and think this has the makings of a good series.
Jeanne
The Librarian Always Rings Twice by Marty Wingate
THE LIBRARIAN ALWAYS RINGS TWICE by Marty Wingate is a First Edition Library Mystery. It is a well-written cozy mystery that contains all the elements of a good cozy mystery, including drama, suspense and intrigue. The author masterfully created the characters who fit so perfectly with the plot.
Jayme
The Rose Code by Kate Quinn
Just when I thought I was over WWII novels along comes Quinn's latest book and I am riveted. I had heard about the Enigma machine and the codebreakers who worked to break Germany's code, but I didn't know about the importance of Bletchley Park in England. Quinn has written a well-researched book and created three very real, richly developed and enduring characters to showcase the work of the codebreakers and their vital role in helping to end WWII. Highly recommend.
Teresa
The Boy from the Woods by Harlan Coben
Coben’s book about Wilde promises to deliver more books about this enigmatic, fascinating character. First, a high school girl goes missing, and then a boy. Are they together? Runaways? Kidnap victims? And what is their connection to the man Wilde, who was once not a missing boy, but a found one. I hope there are more Wilde stories because this one was fascinating.
Nancy
Intimacies by Katie Kitamura
Ever since I saw the movie "The Interpreter" with Nicole Kidman years ago, I've been fascinated by the world and lives of international translators (in fact, the movie is referenced in the book, although it goes unnamed), and I was looking forward to reading this book. It's the story of a New York-based interpreter who escapes her life in New York by moving to The Hague and accepting a job at the International Court there. It's a short book and should be an easy read, but the writing style ties multiple sentences and unrelated actions together so that I had to re-read many. It's an interesting story about politics and friendship and love, but I have mixed feelings about recommending it.
Suzanne
The Christie Affair by Nina de Gramont
Interestingly told through the eyes of the mistress.
Susan
The Book of M by Peng Shepherd
I wasn't prepared for a dystopian-turned-fantasy novel. While the plot was inventive the, characters did not draw me in. Clever idea, plodding storyline.
Judith
The Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead
Elwood is smart, planning on going places with his life and then he unexpectedly is picked up hitchhiking by someone wanted by the law. Ending up in the "Nickel Home for Boys", life is about to change drastically. The thoughts of what might have been done to these boys and what actually happened to Elwood makes this a compelling read.
Ashley
Fly with the Arrow by Sarah K. L. Wilson
Truly one of the best books I've read in years. The world building and pacing were so nobel and kept me intrigued from the first word.
Linda
This Tender Land by William Kent Krueger
Outstanding adventure book. This author's storytelling skills are amazing. This will be a great discussion book for a book club.
Joan
The Lincoln Highway by Amor Towles
I was so immersed in this book! The characters are so well drawn you fall in love with them! I would beg the author to write a sequel!
Alexandra
Wish You Were Here by Jodi Picoult
A chilling look into a hospital during the Covid pandemic and what it takes to come back from having been on a ventilator. Also a beautiful description of the Galápagos Islands and a couple of romantic characters. This book had it all; I really enjoyed it!
Michelle
Magic Hour by Kristin Hannah
This book was good, but I felt waaaay too long. Just kind of dragged out. I almost didn’t finish but really wanted to find out where the girl came from!
John
Thunderstruck by Erik Larson
This is a touching and heartwarming story about the importance of friendship, set in Edwardian London.
Karen
The Lincoln Highway by Amor Towles
I really liked it!
Lori
Reminders of Him by Colleen Hoover
All the emotions for this one! A story of love and forgiveness that will stay with me for quite a while.
Susan
An Elegant Woman by Martha McPhee
I love family stories but found this four generation story hard to follow. The change of names was confusing but the characters were strong women. It was a different type of storyline.
Sheree
The Lincoln Highway by Amor Towles
Loved it, loved it, loved it! It was so well written and I loved the characters and the plot. I loved everything about this book. It was so well written.
Sharon
The Witching Tree by Alice Blanchard
A fairly gruesome tale set in modern days of the killing of a local "witch"-- albeit, one who only practices white magic in a town known for its history of persecuting witches in the 1600s. Detective Natalie Lockhart is still recovering from working on an earlier sensational murder case, attempting to discern which man she really loves, and trying to decide on retirement. A lot on her plate as she seeks the murderer(s) of this beloved woman.
Edee
The Party Crasher by Sophie Kinsella
Effie still cannot believe her parents are divorced, and now her dad has a new, much younger, girlfriend (Krista) that Effie might have jokingly called a gold digger. To make matters worse, Effie has just found out that Greenoaks, their beloved family home, has been sold. Krista is throwing a big send off party for the house. After being left off the original guest list, Effie is definitely not going, but then remembers her childhood treasured Russian dolls are there and she cannot be without those. Effie decides to go full out "Mission Impossible" mode and stealthily enter the house during the party to retrieve her dolls, except it doesn't quite work out that way. What comes next is pages of hilarious blunders and a heartwarming end.
Tessa
The Cat Who Ate Danish Modern by Lilian Jackson Braun
Book Two in the “Cat Who” cozy mystery series, starring journalist James Qwilleran and his Siamese Koko. I like this series, set in an unnamed northern-midwest city. I like the way Qwill ferrets out information, and how he’s beginning to notice that his cat is quite astute. The plot is full of twists and turns, as well as a colorful assortment of characters, good and bad. Photographer Odd Bunsen is an able sidekick.
Lorraine
Anna Spiro: A Life in Pattern by Anna Spiro
Stunning, artistic, and inspiring coffee table book called a “monograph” of the interior design and decorating style and philosophy of a hot Australian designer known for her bold mismatching of colors, patterns, textures, old and new. Inspiring for other aspects in life, seeking beauty, joy, and happiness.
Debbie
Olga Dies Dreaming by Xochitl Gonzalez
I loved this book. The writing is excellent and the story is very interesting. I also learned a lot about Puerto Rican culture and the problems of assimilation. I was so interested in the title that I did a little research to find out what it meant -- very interesting.
Kathy
The Beekeeper of Aleppo by Christy Lefteri
Very well-written book, it was easy to read, although it covered the difficult topic of escaping horrors in your own country. Love, friendship and hope reverberate throughout the story. Great book club discussion, too.
Mary Lou
The Second Life of Nick Mason by Steve Hamilton
Good thriller with interesting premise. A convicted criminal serving 20 years-to-life in a prison is pardoned by officials at the hidden bidding of a powerful drug lord. His reward for this pardon is that he will be at the beck and call of this crime boss once he is on the outside of the prison gates. Exciting and action packed. Local author, too.
Dianna
The Spainish Daughter by Lorna Hughes
I liked this book. It was very interesting and showed what is was like to be a woman in the 1920s, having to portray a man to get what is rightfully hers.
Eileen
Under the Whispering Door by T. J. Klune
Another masterpiece from T. J. Klune. I'm in love with his writing and his stories. Although I am not gay, his stories transcend all sexual classifications and focus on humanity and human's relation to other humans. I think I cried for the entire second half of the book. Definitely a two-tissue box book. A must-read for anyone who has ever loved and lost.
Pam
The Book of Lost Names by Kristin Harmel
I love this book and plan to share it with my book discussion group meeting in February. The details and time period (Holocaust) are so fascinating, and the characters of Eva and Remy came alive. I was rooting for them until the last page.
Geraldine
West With Giraffes by Lynda Rutledge
Book takes place in 1938 telling the story of a 12-day road trip transporting two giraffes from New York to San Diego Zoo. Felt like you were on this journey with them. Great characterizations, especially of the giraffes. Favorite quote, "If ever I could claim to have seen the face of God,it was in the faces of those giraffes."
Catherine
The Lincoln Highway by Amor Towles
Savored each part of the journey/each chapter with Billy and Elliot and Duchess!
Linda
Angels of the Pacific by Elise Hooper
I received an advance copy of this work of historical fiction. Little has been written about the American Army and Navy nurses who served in the Philippines and were imprisoned for much of the duration of WWII in the Pacific. This is an important work that deserves to be widely read, honoring the service and valor of these 77 valiant women.
Nicolette
Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Saenz
A solid young adult book, great for helping people accept their circumstances and who they are. Inspiring lead characters and a great family feel.
Deborah
The People We Keep by Allie Larkin
Larkin writes such vivid, complex and compelling characters. A delight to read!
Rosa
Miss Graham's Cold War Cookbook by Celia Rees
Set in post-World War II Germany, this is the story of Edith Graham, a young Englishwoman who is recruited by the British Control Commission, whose goal is to find fleeing Nazis and prosecute war crimes. No one is who they seem, and Edith finds herself questioning the motives and loyalties of her friends and acquaintances. She conspires with a friend/fellow spy by sending secret messages through recipes and cooking tips in the mail. The book describes vividly how life iwas immediately after the war, how difficult it was to rebuild. This is an engrossing story, quite entertaining as well as disturbing, with an ending I did not expect.
MH
Mistress of the Ritz by Melanie Benjamin
I really enjoyed this book. A mixture of life of the rich and famous and WWII drama. I especially enjoyed the portrait of Coco Chanel. I had never heard some of the things about her, such as that she redecorated a suite at the Ritz to her own taste or that she had a German lover during the occupation of France.
Celticlady's Reviews Blog
The Fugitive Colors by Nancy Bilyeau
This book is the follow up to THE BLUE. It is a story of silk weavers, painters and spies. Genevieve Sturbridge is having a hard time keeping her business going as women did not have a lot of rights in the 1700s. Men control everything from arts and sciences to politics and law. It is a world of glamour, where beauty is prized above everything else in Georgian England. I enjoyed this book, as I do all of Nancy's stories. Fast-paced and thoroughly researched. A wonderful story!
Linda
Firefly Lane by Kristin Hannah
The story of two women's tumultuous but everlasting friendship was made into a Netflix series. I liked other books by Hannah better.
Jamelyn
All the Ugly and Wonderful Things by Bryn Greenwood
Oh my word! This book took my breath away after reading. It includes sadness, heartbreaks, depression, happiness and loyalty all rolled into one entertaining novel. It is a page-turner, unputdownable and easy to read; however, there are several chapters in the middle of the book that were simply difficult and disturbing. One should read this with open mind, but once you continue reading, you will grow to love these fictional characters at the end. I went online to read other reviews but wasn’t deterred by others! I highly recommend this book! A 5-star and can’t wait to read this author’s other books!
Betty Jo
My Monticello by Jocelyn Nicole Johnson
Good selction of short stories and one novella all set in Virginia and set among racial inequalities.
Linda
Don’t Look Now by Mary Burton
Jordan Poe, Homicide Detective in Austin, Texas, is investigating murders of young women who are found suffocated while wrapped up in plastic like a mummy. When a third girl is missing, the girl gets a phone and calls Jordan. She calls Texas Ranger Carter Spencer and he tells her to wait on him before she goes into the house. But Jordan can’t wait and goes in. She finds the girl and uses her knife to cut the plastic away from her face so she can breathe. The killer is behind Jordan and hits her over the head with a club. Carter gets there a few minutes later but the killer takes the girl and is gone. Jordan is rushed to the hospital with terrible head injuries. Carter is more determined than ever to get the killer.
Linda
Lost and Found Family by Jennifer Ryan
A heartwarming book about a young woman wanting a family of her own. Sarah Anderson has two sons by her late husband but longs for an extended family. When she meets attorney Luke Thompson, she feels a spark and wonders if he is the one. He does not wonder because he knew the first moment he met Sarah that she was the woman he had been searching for to make his life complete. Her boys complete the family picture and Luke has never been as happy until the day of their wedding when Sarah becomes his.
Linda
Rock Paper Scissors by Alice Feeney
Adam and Amelia Wright win a weekend to a remote location in the Scottish Highlands and the renovated church gives them an eerie feeling. Something is not right. Adam is a screenwriter and Amelia works at a dog rescue operation. She feels neglected and they came to revitalize and possibly save their marriage although both have taken steps to end it. There is an old cottage at the top of the lane leading to the church and a woman lives there who knows the truth of what’s going on in the old building. Is it revenge or just righting a wrong that was done to her?
Linda
False Witness by Karin Slaughter
Loved the Will Trent series but this one just did not do it. For a smart lawyer, Leigh Collier seems to do a lot of boo-hooing. Quit blaming herself for the misfortunes her sister endured while working as babysitter and being sexually abused by Buddy Waleski. If anyone is at fault, it was their mother and DCS who allowed the two girls to live in a home where they were physically and verbally abused. Leigh married a good guy but I didn't understand why they lived separately if they loved each other the way they said they did. I felt sorry for Callie who could not seem to quit the drug habit. It seems the vet she worked for (Dr. Jerry) truly had a soft spot in his heart for Callie, especially when he presided over her funeral.
Linda
The Girl and the Dragon’s Island by A. J. Rivers
Emma Griffin, FBI, is still focused on solving Greg’s death, but her supervisor Creagan is pulling her back and tells her he’s beginning to think she killed Greg. A witness to the shooting death of Greg tells what she saw but it doesn’t add up. Emma has the key that Grey was trying to get to her and remembers seeing one like it on Creagan’s key ring. He is connected to this somehow. Emma tells her husband Sam she has to go back to Windsor Island and find Darren (or Damian) Blackwell, better known as The Dragon. He escaped from prison and she believes he is there.
Linda
Duty Bound Desire: The Sheikh’s Forced Marriage by Jennifer Jansen
Princess Yasmin of Qaman is angry when her father tells her of her arranged marriage to Crown Prince Nabil of Zashar. Agreements were reached for Zashar to provide soldiers to Qaman to prevent the takeover from a neighboring country. Yasmin was attending medical school in England and was furious with her father but she recognized her duty. Nabil was handsome but he told her it was only a marriage of political necessity. Attraction between them? Check. Hot sex between them? Check. What does the future hold? She fell in love with him but he remained cold and her heart slowly breaks, but what is she to do? Thanks Goodreads for a fabulous book!
Linda
A Brush With Love by Mazey Eddings
Harper Horowitz is in dental school with hopes of becoming an oral surgeon. She pushes herself too hard and is in the top of her class, but she builds up walls so no one can get close to her. But that was before she fell down the steps and onto Daniel Craige. He is also in dental school and not doing well because he is fulfilling his parents’ wish, not his. Harper and Dan became friends and then lovers and she finds herself daydreaming of Dan and not keeping her mind on her studies. She lashes out at him when she misses an important exam and tells him to leave. He is angry, then hurt and it hurts her when she sees the pain on his face. Spoken words cannot be taken back, but how can she go on without him?
Linda
Head Over Hooves by Erin Nicholas
Drew Ryan brings his reindeer to Louisiana to take part in the Christmas festivities. He means to find him a wild Cajun woman to have a little fun with before he heads home to Iowa and the family farm. But then he meets Rory Robins, a cute woman dressed as an elf who volunteered to make Santa’s Village for the children. He likes what he sees and decides to help her. He falls for her but tells himself he hasn’t, that he’ll go back to Iowa and forget her. But love and lust win out. Thanks Goodreads for a cute book.
Linda
Nocturne by Syrie James
This was an excellent book! Great love story but sad. Nicole Whitcomb was on her way to the airport when a snowstorm hit and her car slid off the road and flipped over. Michael Tyler lived nearby and saw what happened. He got her out of the car and into his house where he bandaged her head wound. She woke and saw a handsome man leaning over her. Attraction flared and when he kissed her, she saw red flames in his eyes and fangs in his mouth. Surely she imagined it! While out walking in the snow, he saved her from mountain lions but is severely wounded and needs fresh blood to heal. She offers her wrist. She wants to stay with him but he tells her that her place is in the real world.
Rose
The Sacred Well Murders by Susan Rowland
I feel like this was Book 2 of a series as there were comments made about prior relationships that led to the friendship of the three main women in the book. However, I don't think it is. Mary Wandwalker is hired to accompany a wealthy teen to the summer program at Oxford on the ancient Celts, only to find out that there is a cult called Reborn Celts who perform rituals and believe they are to be gods and goddesses. Mary and her friends, Caroline and Anna, and Mary's helper, Sarah, are caught up in this web of fantasy and ghoulish sacrifices. When terrible things happen to the teen, a male companion and several members of the trio, the police become involved. There is some references to climate change and racism.
Jan
Landfall by Nevil Shute
Nevil Shute writes about war. This book was published in 1940, before the modern Air Force or Naval flying squads. The book focuses on an excellent young pilot. Because someone is sick, he is forced to fly (during WW2) without his usual first mate, who is another pair of eyes in the cockpit, but who also is the navigator, the man with the maps. The shifts are long and tiring doing the same thing - flying over a designated area, looking for anything amiss. He is always notified when British or allied ships are in the area. On the fateful day, he does not see the designated ship, but just as he is finishing his final turn, almost dark, really just dusk, he sees a submarine on the surface of the water. No British markings. He shoots it down.
Elizabeth
The Lobotomist's Wife by Samantha Greene Woodruff
This book was interesting, well researched, intense, and based on real people and events.
Maureen
Greenwich Park by Katherine Faulkner
Good suspense novel, kept me guessing until nearly the end of the book! The characters were well developed and the ending was unexpected, but just what you realized you wanted.
Maureen
The World Played Chess by Robert Dugoni
This is the kind of book that when you read the last sentence, you close your eyes and realize what a marvelous piece of work you have just finished. Mr. Dugoni imparts wisdom, humor and life lessons into this novel. The images of Vietnam and what what those young soldiers experienced will stay with you even after you have finished the book. If I could give this book 6 stars I would!
Susan
Playing Nice by J. P. Delaney
Very good read. Couldn't put it down.
Marilyn
A Reporter's Life by Walter Cronkite
Certainly an interesting read but moves slowly. His memoir focuses on his decades of reporting including the Kennedy assassination when he could scarcely speak because of his grief, the Civil Rights movement, D-Day, and his interactions with a number of presidents from FDR to Richard Nixon, both privately and publicly. It is a most informative treatise on this well-respected reporter,
Pam
The Man Who Died Twice by Richard Osman
Very enjoyable due to the characters, the tone, and the extremely clever writing. Loved this one.
Ann Marie
Sundial by Catriona Ward
I love this author; everyone must read her. She is brilliant!
Ann Marie
The Last House on Needless Street by Catriona Ward
What a great book, and I appreciate the authors dedication to finding out facts on the affliction in this book.
Beth
Black Rabbit Hall by Eve Chase
BLACK RABBIT HALL is two stories that, for the first half of the book, only seem to be related by photographs showing one story's main character, Lorna, as a child standing in front of Black Rabbit Hall, where everything takes place in the other story. So that's the mystery for the first half of the book: why was Lorna at Black Rabbit Hall when she was a child? Both stories bored me. They were wordy; that is, descriptions went on and on. "Okay," I thought, "I get it. Get on with it, please!”
Lana
Glory Over Everything by Kathleen Grissom
My book club read this book as it had just finished THE KITCHEN HOUSE and wanted to learn "the rest of the story". Overall, a good book, but I did get aggravated at the hero and his immaturity. Did show how brutal slavery truly was.
Debbie
Winter Garden by Kristin Hannah
WINTER GARDEN by Kristin Hannah evokes poignant memories of relationships with my mother and my sister. As a rule, we leave so much unsaid, but Anya, Meredith, and Nina work through years of silence to find one another. The story and imagery flow beautifully as a fairy tale transcends into a nonfiction saga. The story repeats too often and many of the pages could have been omitted. Yes, the horrors of Russia and its citizens during the German invasion reek of events that continue to happen as aggression replaces acceptance. The story shows all the problems of life in Russian but fails to mention the hardships of running an apple orchard. A surprise awaits Anya, Meredith, and Nina when they arrive in Alaska.
Debbie
Such A Fun Age by Kiley Reid
I do not like the use of profanity, especially so often. I realize that the language of the individual creates a more realistic novel, but I do not like this practice. This story features a rich White family and their Black babysitter for the older daughter. Alix Chamberlain has gained fame by writing and reviewing products. She knows how to work the system and receive perks and gifts with her writing. She dotes of her younger daughter, Catherine, but ignores the older daughter, Briar. Emira Tucker spends hours with Briar and loves this little girl. Emira and Briar enter an elite White supermarket late one night, and a security guard accuses Emira of kidnapping Briar.
Debbie
Why We Swim by Bonnie Tsui
Bonnie Tsui presents interesting stories about swimming and the benefits of swimming. What I fail to see in this book is the constant danger of swimming in outdoor bodies of water. Ms. Reid talks of swimming from the coast of San Francisco to Alcatraz Island and calmly skips over the dangerous water. She also talks of swimming in subzero water during the winter. Again, the dangers seem minor. The benefits of swimming outweigh the disadvantages. The joy and pleasure derived from swimming show how this exercise brings more advantage than running or cycling. The stories involve many popular swimmers in many countries. Swimming heals and provides excellent exercise and moments for meditation.
Jill
News of the World by Paulette Jiles
This is the story of the journey Captain Jefferson Kyle Kidd, a newspaper reader in Texas, and Johanna take from Wichita Falls to near San Antonio in 1866. Kidd agrees to return Johanna, a White girl whom the Kiowa Indians captured in a raid and now no longer want, to her relatives' home (her parents were killed in the raid) for a fee. Jiles makes you care about the Captain and Johanna's evolving relationship during their travels. She also lovingly depicts Texas, almost as another character in the book, and vividly tells of the remarkable adventures the two face as they travel. The book is well done and I will be thinking about both the Captain and Johanna for some time to come. I highly recommend this one!
Cherie
The 100 Years of Lenni and Margot by Marianne Cronin
Story of two people of different ages significantly who are facing end of life, yet who see joy together and develop a friendship. Sharing of life stories, yet so much more.
Ellyn
Driftless Treasure by Sue Berg
The second book by a local author who lives in Viroqua, Wisconsin in the Driftless Region. The books are mysteries with a local sheriff's detective at the center. I enjoy recognizing the towns and villages as well as local highlights mentioned from the mid-western city I live in -- La Crosse, Wisconsin.
Evelyn
The Liz Taylor Ring by Brenda Janowitz
Wonderful story.
sherri
Home to Harmony by Phillip Gulley
I was hoping to find something warm and cozy like the Mitford series by Jan Karon. This is in the same ballpark but not as good. An okay read.
Jackie
Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson
This is an extraordinary story of faith, hope, love, endurance and the renewal of life through changes like waves in the sea. It's impossible to read this book without learning about something new such as a scrumptious black cake which had a lot of meaning for the main character, Covey. After she dies, she leaves her two kids, Bryon and Bernie, with a black cake to be enjoyed when the time is right. Her attorney gives them a tape of the story of her life. It's a unique book filled with historical references with some complex issues such as racial prejudice, forced abortions and environmental concerns. I enjoyed every word. It was said, "Everything is connected to everything else, if you only go far enough back in time."
Rose
The Missionary by Rowena Kinread
Epic fictionalized story of the life of St. Patrick and his work to bring conversion to Christianity to Ireland. The story begins when Patricius is in love with Flavia and takes advantage of her (this is, by the author's own admission, her imagination). When Patricius is kidnapped and enslaved, he spends years away from his home. With the help of others, he escapes, and sets out on his spiritual journey where he converts thousands to Catholicism and also helps them read. The book also introduces another beloved Irish saint, St. Brigid. I didn't know about the slavery of St. Patrick. Interesting story.
Colleen
The Black Church: This Is Our Story, This Is Our Song by Henry Louis Gates, Jr.
I learned so much!
Rose
The Lazarus Men by Christian Warren Freed
Gerald LaPlant is working at a plant diligently toiling along in Earth’s rat race. He stumbles across a murder and is unknowingly thrust into an interplanetary chase for a secret treasure.
In the 23rd century, travel between planets is swift, and Gerald hopes to escape from the people chasing him by traveling from Earth to Mars. Along the way, he meets Charlotte, as well as some unsavory characters who are trying to capture him for the artifact he is carrying. This is a science fiction thriller, with some humor. It is the first in a series. Science fiction buffs would enjoy this quick adventure through space about good against evil.
Michelle
99 Percent Mine by Sally Thorne
Great rom com! Hysterical as usual! Great story about family, love, and how sometimes what we need has been right in front of us!
Francisca
Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz
This is a coming-of-age story featuring two Mexican-American teens trying to figure out their place in the world. I enjoyed this book and felt connected to these boys and their struggles. I’m way past that stage of life, but I remember the pain of not feeling like I fit in, the joy of finally having a good friend, the fumblings and push/pull of early romantic encounters. And I loved Ari and Dante, their reliance on one another and their growing relationship.
Elizabeth
The Next Ship Home by Heather Webb
THE NEXT SHIP HOME is an excellent inside look at Ellis Island, and with these wonderful characters makes it a read historical fiction fans won't want to miss. Thumbs up to Ms. Webb for this marvelous book. You won’t want to put it down.
Thomas
Fear No Evil by James Patterson
Excellent book.
Rose
Twice Shy by Sarah Hogle
I didn't really believe in the romance between them. It was too sticky sweet all of a sudden. The way they spoke to each other just seemed like things real people wouldn't ever actually say to each other. It read more like a YA romance with the love interests seeming more like teenagers than 30 year olds. Also the daydream sequences were kind of jarring and meant to be cheesy?
However, I didn't hate it, l generally liked the overall idea of it, the author's writing was good and I'm totally willing to try another book of hers.
Kay
Wish You Were Here by Jodi Picoult
I really thought the book took place in the Galapagos Islands with the descriptions and emotions felt by the main character. The second part of the book was such a surprise, to both the reader and to the story. I loved the suspenseful ending!
Laura
Wish You Were Here by Jodi Picoult
This was not Jodi? The story had little depth and lacked a interesting story. I understand it's a story of what may happens when you are highly medicated. I think it used Covid as a crutch. I've had three major surgeries and not once had any "dreams". I'll read anything by Jodi but I may be a bit more critical of the next one.
Michelle
The Maid by Nina Prose
Great book! Very insightful as to how people who are socially awkward or a bit slow mentally can be taken advantage of. Good twist I didn’t see coming at the end!
Rose
Seven Days in June by Tia Williams
I put this book on my list after I heard about it on a book review. Sadly, this book just didn’t do it for me. Eva is an author who writes erotica. Shane is also an author, now a teacher. They were madly in love for 7 days in high school and now 15 years later meet again, after trying to forget each other. Their ‘madly in love’ phase was alcohol and drug-fueled while both teens were in incredible pain. Not the best way to build a solid foundation. I did like Eva’s daughter’s character, but I wasn’t crazy about either Eva or Shane. I am sure this isn’t a popular opinion, but I just don’t understand the hype around this book. Yes, it drew attention to migraines and drug/alcohol abuse, but I don’t think it did a great job. Good ending.
Kay
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Such a satisfying read and it takes you back through the Hollywood years of fame and the contracts the stars were under to produce lots of movies, movies we still watch today and look back on fondly. There is a surprise ending which ends the story on an unanticipated note!
Diane
Miss Dior by Justine Picardie
An amazing account of Catherine Dior, her involvement with the French resistance during WII, friends, family, photos!
Lindy Lou
The Woman who Smashed Codes by Jason Fagone
Intriguing look into an amazing mind that was alluded. Elizabeth Friedman is forever in my mind as a shining example of female grit.
Jeanine
No Exit by Taylor Adams
This book is a gory thriller verging on horror, which is not my jam. Nor did I find it clever, which is key to a “good” thriller. Nonetheless, it’s compulsively readable if you suspend plausibility.
Rose
The Sister-in-Law by Pamela Crane
Twisty thriller about Harper who comes home one night to find her husband, Ben, dead of an apparent suicide. She calls her brother, Lane, for help. Six weeks later, Lane is married to Candace, a woman that seemed to enter his life quickly. Harper is suspicious of Candace. Although they butt heads, Candace wants to be sisters with Harper. Both Harper and Candace are hiding things from their past, and if these things are exposed, the lives they built will crumble.
I enjoyed the twisty plot, although I did figure out the big reveal before it was presented. I liked how the author kept surprising you with new twists.
Jamelyn
The Perfect Family by Robyn Harding
This novel is an unputdownable, fast-paced and easy-read. The book is psycho-thriller and suspense fiction. Every house has its secrets and it is up to the family members to iron-out the differences and discrepancies. After reading this book, I had the sudden urge to give my family a tight hug! A must-read!
Rose
Find Me by Alifair Burke
I simultaneously listened and read this book so that I could fully immerse myself into the writing of Alafair Burke. I always enjoy her books, and this was no exception. Hope and Lindsay are best friends, beginning with the time that Lindsay found Hope on the side of the road, thrown from her vehicle. that was 15 years ago, and Hope has never regained her memory of her life before the accident. Hope tells Lindsay that she needs to have some space, so she moves to the Hamptons for the summer, and goes missing. Lindsay is frantic, and pushes the local authorities to search for Hope. However, when the cops begin looking into Hope's disappearance, things don't seem to add up. When someone turns up dead, Hope becomes a suspect.
Tessa
Lady Clementine by Marie Benedict
3.5 stars. This work of historical fiction focuses on Lady Clementine Churchill, the woman beside (not behind) the man, Winston Churchill. Lady Clementine emerges from the pages as a strong woman, with the courage of her convictions and easily able to stand up to (and for) the man in her life, helping Winston Churchill achieve the successes for which he is so well known.
Rose
Lucky by Marissa Stapley
I enjoyed this tale about Lucky (Luciana) who is a grifter/con artist with a conscience -- although her conscience doesn't always win out! Lucky and her father, John, pull off many scams, usually targeting wealthy people that they think "can afford it". Later, she connects with Cary and pulls even larger scams. Lucky, when things are looking bad, discovers that she has a winning lottery ticket worth mega millions, but since she is wanted by the law, she can't cash it. Now, she has to find a way to cash the check, reconnect with people from her past, and come to terms with what she has done. I think the ending was a bit too pat, but still I enjoyed it. I also enjoyed the narration of the book. This is a very quick read.
Liz
Daughter of Moloka’i by Alan Brennert
Rachel’s story continues when she is forced to place her newborn daughter, Ruth, in an orphanage because she has leprosy. Ruth is eventually adopted by a loving Japanese family. She flourishes in her new home until her adoptive family moves the family to California to come to the aid of his brother. All is well until the war breaks out. The family is placed in a relocation camp. After many years, she is reconnected with her birth mother and Rachel is welcomed into the family, having been cured with sulfa drugs. This can be read as a stand-alone, good start and finish, but the author went into too much detail in the middle.
Kathie
One to Watch by Kate Stayman-London
The Bachelorette show in a book. If you enjoy reality shows, this book is for you. Plus-size blogger Bea is cast on the show "Main Squeeze" after bashing it in her blog. I enjoyed reading this.
Kathie
Illuminae by Amie Kaufman and Jay Kristoff
What a fantastic read! Such a different reading experience. The text was letters, emails, and reports. Sometimes you need to turn the book around to read the text. I flew through this, what a ride! Gets you immersed deeply from the start. Set mostly on a spaceship, you feel like you are there. Can't wait to pick up the second book in this trilogy. If you haven't read this yet, don't wait!
Kimberley
Hurricane Summer by Asha Bromfield
This read falls under Young Adult but the main character, Tilla, is faced with very real adult problems. The teen and her young sister leave their Toronto home they share with their mother to spend summer break with their father who lives in Jamaica. Promises of fun, reunions and a vacation are quickly dismissed when their father drops them in the "country" to be cared for by distant relatives. Conflict, hardship, secrets and a hurricane destroy the fun summer the sisters had planned. It is an interesting read and brings to light life in the real Jamaica.
Sharon
Ahab's Wife by Sena Jeter Naslund
I loved how the author used such beautiful phrases throughout the book.
Rose
The Ex-Husband by Karen Hamilton
This is the second con-man book I have read in two days! I didn't realize that before I read it, but what a coincidence! In this book, Sam and Charlotte meet while Charlotte is on a cruise for work. Sam works as a croupier in the casino on board. He woos Charlotte and wins her over. Later, they are married, and work all sorts of cons on people on the ship. Later, Charlotte wants out, especially after Sam left her to take the fall for something he took. The book opens with that, then provides you the back story of what Sam and Charlotte did. Now, Sam is trying to reach Charlotte, texting her but not replying. When Charlotte realizes she is being threatened, she decides to try to find Sam and determine who wants her dead.
Christine
The Hop by Diana Clarke
The story was okay. There were many characters and the story wasn't slow.
Teresa
The Maid by Nita Prose
I kept picturing Sandra Bullock in "All About Steve".
Jayme
The Woman They Could Not Silence: One Woman, Her Incredible Fight for Freedom, and the Men Who Tried to Make her Disappear by Kate Moore
From the author of THE RADIUM GIRLS comes another riveting, tragic yet inspiring story about Elizabeth Packard, a married woman who is put in an insane asylum in the late 1800s by her husband, and her efforts to free herself and fight for the rights of women and women "deemed" insane. Highly recommend.
Cindy
The Memoirs of Stockholm Sven by Nathaniel Ian Miller
What a great adventure during a bleak winter! My weather felt balmy compared to Sven’s! Welcome to a fabulous new author!
Nina
Born a Crime by Trevor Noah
Delightful stories about Noah's childhood in Africa during apartheid.
Susan
Crimes of Winter by Philippe Georget
One of the best father characters ever created in novels. Story is original, but the true masterpiece of this, and Georget's two other Inspector Gilles Sebag books, is the finely drawn personas. Setting is southern France, Perpignon, near the Catalan border with Spain. Beautiful descriptions. I wish there were more books in this series.
Cecilia
Free Love by Tessa Hadley
Would Phyllis really continue to live a blue collar life with a new baby? Why wouldn't Jean move in with Roger?
Hailey
The Wife Upstairs by Rachel Hawkins
It was such a thrilling ride and I gasped out loud a few different times.
Terri
Trouble The Water by Rebecca Dwight Bruff
I loved this book! It’s an historical fiction about Robert Smalls, born in Beaufort SC in 1839, an African American. The rich beauty of the Low Country is described along with the lows and highs of his life. Smalls might have been born a slave, but he made history and became a hero during the Civil War, and later a Congressman. This was Bruff’s first novel but I hope it won’t be the last.
Ann
The Betrayal of Anne Frank by Rosemary Sullivan
Essential reading for anyone whose heart was touched by Anne Frank's tragic story. This nonfiction work reads like a thriller.
Lisa
The Sound of Gravel by Ruth Wariner
Although difficult at times to read, this is a fascinating memoir of growing up in a polygamist Mormon family. If you read and liked EDUCATED you probably will want to read this as well.
Cynthia
Verity by Colleen Hoover
I personally found a lot of things a bit far-fetched. Too much emphasis on their lust. Just a lot of unrealistic occurrences, like letting a stranger move into your house when you have a child...
Cynthia
The House in the Cerulean Sea by T. J. Klune
I loved this book. Its subtle way of making huge points on the subjects that are disguised by the beautiful characters in this book are genius! Teaches us no matter how different or unique we are, is not to be feared but embraced and loved.
Doris
The Dictionary of Lost Words by Pip Williams
The characters are three-dimensional and timeless in this historical recounting of the inception of the Oxford English Dictionary. Being a wordsmith myself, I thoroughly enjoyed this book! Of most significance is the fact that the author brilliantly brought out the importance that all words should be considered, not just those agree upon by White men of a certain age and class. As cultures change, so does the usage and meaning of words. The correct usage of words is a powerful tool which comes to light in this amazing novel.
Sheree
The Kitchen Front by Jennifer Ryan
This historical fiction book was wonderful. I was amazed at what these women could make with the few ingredients they had and I loved the female friendship element as well!
Susan
Lightning Strike by William Kent Kruger
His books flow so smoothly. It is a prequel to his Cork O'Conner books which I haven't read yet but intend to. Aurora Minn is next to a Indian reservation and a Indian man is found dead at a sacred place called Lightning Strike, and Cork's white Irish father who is the sheriff must try to figure out who did it with little help from the Indians on the reservation of whom his wife is a member.
Kathryn
1984 by George Orwell
In re-reading this from 60 years ago, I am surprised at how much this mirrors our society, especially the last 5 years or so. As I read the Op/Ed pages and political cartoons, I could insert them as pages of the book many days. He wrote this in 1949...and here we are in 2022. Definitely worth the re-read.
Elizabeth
Notes on an Execution by Danya Kukafka
Although I differ with some blurbs I've read calling NOTES ON AN EXECUTION a thriller, I do agree that this book is excellent. And, although I think the couple lines of Danya Kukafka's anti-racist comments (inserted as a character's thoughts) contained in this book are unnecessary, NOTES ON AN EXECUTION is undeniably great in its thoughtfulness. It's a five-star read. The lives of not only a condemned man but, also, of the women crucial to his life are explored right from his beginning. While I disagree with Kukafka that people romanticize a serial killer and forget his victims, NOTES ON AN EXECUTION is the most thoughtful and maybe even the most interesting exploration of their lives and feelings that I've read.
Sarah
The Last House on the Street by Diane Chamberlain
A gripping story with authentically-written historical themes that have relevance today. The characters are brave enough to make a difference against attacks on humanity.
Donna
The Maid by Nita Prose
Really enjoyed this book about an autistic maid working in a posh hotel who discovers a dead body in a room. Because she looks at things so differently, she is eventually charged with his murder.
This book is humorous but at the same time delves in to how we treat the "invisible" people we encounter.
Linda
Ask Again, Yes by Mary Beth Keane
It's a meandering family drama with such well-developed characters that I had strong likes and dislikes of these flawed but in the end, loving and hopeful people.
Elizabeth
The Space Between Us by Thrity Umrigar
THE SPACE BETWEEN US by Thrity Umrigar (2006). Read 2/2/2022. Takes place in old Bombay (now Mumbai), India. Depicts the harsh differences between social classes of the educationally and economically well-off and of the impoverished, uneducated poor living in the slums. It is the story of upper middle class Sera Dubash and her maid Bhima, who though living under different circumstances, experience the same sense of loss in their marriages and families in this patriarchal society. Wonderful descriptive writing that transports the reader into the scenes of every day life in Bombay - especially the slums, the busyness of the city, and the redemptive awakening found in the sea.
Elizabeth
Secrets of Our House by Rea Frey
Desi has secrets…yes, more than one. Jules now has one, but she will reveal it. Well written, but too much like a soap opera.
Rose
Cul-de-sac by Joy Fielding
Joy Fielding writes juicy, gossipy novels. Life on the cul-de-sac is about to get interesting. The novel opens with a bang, literally. Gunshots ring out and surprise the residents of the cul-de-sac. But you don't know until the end of the novel who got shot. After the first few pages, the book goes back several weeks so you meet the residents. They are Nick and Dani, two doctors, and their sons. Maggie and Craig, separated, and their daughter and son. Julia and her grandson. Sean and Olivia and their kids. Aiden, suffering from PTSD, his wife, Heidi and his bossy mother, Lucy. All of these families have issues, ranging from domestic abuse, alcoholism, fear, and more. Plus, they each own at least one gun. This is a quick thriller.
Jan
Caste by Isabel Wilkerson
Wilkerson won the Pulitzer for an earlier book, so she is no slouch when it comes to writing or to documenting where she got her information. There are some 44 pages of notes on her sources. She points out clearly that the U.S. has a caste system, unlike any other country with a caste system. Ours is based solely on race, the color of one's skin. It has been in place for centuries and was set by the people in the Southern states who bought and sold Black people like cattle. Even though we went through a civil war in this country, little changed. For a few years after the war, Blacks accomplished some higher standing but the carpetbaggers and White people in the South quickly passed laws to hinder voting and education for Blacks. Wonderful.
Rose
An Impossible Promise by Jude Deveraux and Tara Sheets
I am a sucker for a Jude Deveraux novel. In this Providence Falls (NC) novel, second in a series, Cora and Liam are police officers in current time, but in the past - Ireland in 1844, Liam was a thief, and Cora the daughter of a squire, and their love was forbidden. Now, Liam is sent by the angels to push Cora to Finn, her soulmate, so that he can move past damnation. Along with the love story, there are murders and robberies, and crossovers between the characters and the timelines. As always, a guilty pleasure, with some humor thrown in. But this one, the ending...
Suzanne
I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou
First time reading. Raw and heartbreaking, but so beautifully poetic. The scenes of church and Sunday school are fascinating. Love of family and community is so wonderfully expressed.
Jane
In Freedom's Light by Sharon Gloger Friedman
I read her first book ASHES and thought that was my favorite. This is one as well. I love the diversity of her books and if she does write others (G-d willing), I'll be on the bandwagon. I admit that I don't read a lot of books set in the 1800s. The ways they lived, especially with slavery, was not an easy read but Sharon made it easy to enjoy this book despite this. I loved this family and all the generations even the staff that weren’t family was their family. I know I say this often in my reviews but I loved the epilogue. One more thing - the cover is so beautiful.
Carol
Mr. Churchill's Secretary by Susan Elia MacNeal
British-born American is in London at the start of WWI, experiences Battle of Britain. Mathematics major Maggie Hope can't get jobs she is qualified for -- it's the good old boys' system. Takes a job as a typist at No. 10 Downing St. Yankee in town with Yankee know how. Solving problems, finding more, uncovering secrets. First in a series. Fun read.
Linda
The School for Good Mothers by Jessamine Chan
A somewhat chilling and disturbing debut novel.
Barbara
The Fountains of Silence by Ruta Sepetys
Eye-opening story set during the Franco dictatorship of Spain that lasted until 1975. Almost 40 years of oppression and fear!
Donna
The American Agent by Jacqueline Winspear
I love this author's style of detailed story writing and am almost finished with the series. In every book it is fun to figure out who was the killer.
Dianne
Passing by Nella Larsen
Three light-skinned Negro women interact differently with the White world. One choosing to "pass" and marrying a White man who is a racist. The other two women take advantage of their fair skin when it is convenient to them, but remain a part of the Negro community in Harlem. The story is told by Irene who is married to a Negro man, but occasionally, will pass as a White woman to access benefits, like shelter in a storm, only available to White women. The story ends tragically. Classic from a Harlem Renaissance writer, this is an engrossing read.
Kay
Olga Dies Dreaming by Xochitl Gonzalez
Olga's family story really engaged me to keep reading her story and all the connections to Puerto Rico and Brooklyn. The knowledge I have of Puerto Rico was from the television news reports during the hurricane devastation of the island. The total disregard of the welfare of our fellow Americans makes more sense to me after reading this story. I loved the writing, the story and the ending!
Kristine
Eight Hundred Grapes by Laura Dave
I loved THE LAST THING HE TOLD ME so I thought I would try another by Laura Dave. This one doesn’t disappoint - not a mystery - but a great family drama in the middle of wine country! Georgia Ford, the main character, is smart, sharp-witted and has a great family that loves her. I really enjoyed being a fly on the wall as she dealt with some secrets - lots of relationship and family drama, but in a way that felt more true-to-life than contrived! Will happily read more from this author! Highly recommend!
Rose
Chance of a Lifetime by Jude Deveraux and Tara Sheets
In the first book of the Providence Falls trilogy, we are introduced to Liam and Cora. Liam and Cora feel in love in 1840s Ireland, but that wasn’t supposed to be Cora’s fate. She was destined to marry Finn, but when handsome Liam appeared, they feel in love. Now in present time, Liam is given a chance by the angels for redemption. He needs to push Cora towards Finn so Liam can be saved from damnation and Cora and Finn can have their destiny. Today, Cora and Liam are cops/partners and roommates. Cora needs to learn to trust Liam, and when he is a suspect in the murder of the husband of the woman he is having an affair with, can he trust Cora to save him?
Tessa
Lizzie & Dante by Mary Bly
This romance features a tragically ill heroine who is a Shakespeare scholar vacationing on the island of Elba, an understanding handsome Italian chef and his precocious 12-year-old daughter, plus a supporting cast of movie stars, gay friends, and no-nonsense acquaintances. There are some twists and turns, because the path to happiness is never a straight one, and I thought the author was trying a bit too hard to force the reader to tears, but I still enjoyed the book. And I LOVED all the food references.
Tina
Bright Precious Thing by Gail Caldwell
The trajectory of the women's rights movement as it relates to Gail’s life.
ANTOINETTE
The Boys by Ron Howard and Clint Howard
A excellent book. Easy to read! It tells of their lives as child actors and how much their parents insured them a normal life or as normal as possible! Very interesting!! I was sorry there wasn't more when I finished it!!!
Kay
The Children's Blizzard by Melanie Benjamin
A brutal fictional portrayal of the loss of life, of limbs from frostbite on January 12, 1888 when an unexpected blizzard which actually hit the Dakota Territories and upended the already difficult lives of immigrant homesteaders. Known as Children’s Blizzard, the majority of those who lost their lives were children as the blizzard hit just as school was about to end for day. Young teachers, not trained, a newspaper man trying to redeem himself. Finished it in one sitting.
Rose
All Girls by Emily Layden
I really was excited to read this book based on advance praise, but I found it SO boring. Having attended an all-girls high school, albeit not a boarding school, I was hoping for a nice juicy tale about female friendships amidst a scandal. But, what I got was a lengthy, dry, novel, with characters I didn't like. The story was convoluted and took forever to make the point. It could have been so much better, in my opinion. The novel begins with students coming to school for orientation. Along the way, signs warn of a scandal at the school, but the school hasn't dealt with the issue appropriately. The rest of the novel touches on this from time to time, but also on the lives of the female students and their relationships.
Kristen
The Lincoln Highway by Amor Towles
This was a meditative book about characters more than anything else, which I enjoyed even with the tragic times.
Elizabeth
Shadows of Pecan Hollow by Caroline Frost
You will be pulled in from the start. Did you ever read a book you didn’t want to put down or couldn’t wait to get back to? SHADOWS OF PECAN HOLLOW is that book.
Sean
Children of Men by P. D. James
With such an interesting premise, this book didn't live up to my expectations. It was good but the first half dragged on and then the second half went by too quickly. The ending was so compact. I also felt there were so many strange choices by the lead characters. Yes, it's a different world but I felt there was a lot overlooked. I would have liked to learn more about this world. James' prose is delightful but there were times the author elongated unimportant aspects of the book that could have been better served elsewhere. Overall, a good book with uneven pacing.
Rose
The Other Black Girl by Zakiya Dalila Harris
Wow, this was an interesting and well-written book. A little mystery, a little fantasy, and a whole lot of social commentary. The book switches between 1983 and 2018 and centers on Black women in publishing, a White-dominated field. Nella has worked for Wagner for a few years without getting promoted. One day, another Black woman, Hazel, comes to work as an assistant and is quickly getting noticed. Hazel tries to bring Nella along with her, to help her understand how to get ahead, but Nella is resistant. Meanwhile, there is another group, composed of Black women who did resist the drive to get ahead by abandoning their sense of self. Who will win?
An interesting take on what Black women experience in society and do to assimilate.
Margaret
The Paper Palace by Miranda Crowley Heller
I didn't know what to expect since this was my first novel by this author. I don't usually like to read reviews about novels I'm planning on reading because I don't want spoilers, but this novel is one where I should have read reviews. I doubt that I would have read this because there is constant reference to sexual abuse of children. This novel is fiction but we all know it happens in real life and how damaging it is in so many ways. To the author's credit, she did include the damage it causes as the novel proceeded. In addition to rape, there's adultery, incest, and child molestation, which are heavy subjects for me. Ms. Heller described nearly every scene, setting, surrounding, etc. in such unnecessary detail, it became like debris.
Jan
Raft of Stars by Andrew J. Graff
Two young boys in Wisconsin, become good friends during the summer. One lives with his grandfather, the other lives with an abusive father. Because of a situation that happened, they decide to run away - leaving a note for the grandfather stating that one has killed the abusive father. The rest of the story builds on the sheriff, the grandfather, the mother, a lonely clerk infatuated with the sheriff, and an inept deputy trying to find the boys in the large woods before a predator finds them first, perhaps killing them. Characters are well developed, doing a lot of thinking and talking, there is a lot of conflict between many of the characters. The sheriff lost a boot in the river and walks in the forest with only a sock on one foot.
Katie
All the Ugly and Wonderful Things by Bryn Greenwood
This book came out of left field! It was filled with taboo, thought-provoking concepts that really made me reconsider what love and safety look like. Not my usual read, but I did enjoy it!
Beth
The Mason House by T. Marie Bertinaeu
THE MASON HOUSE is T. Marie Bertineau's memoir, a compilation of memories. She grew up with her three sisters, a brother, and alcoholic parents in many different homes in many different school districts in a few different states. Their upbringing was unstable and obviously difficult. I was under the misconception that Bertineau grew up in Michigan's Upper Peninsula (UP) because that's where the Mason house was. It was her grandmother’s home, where she spent part of her childhood, in Mason, Michigan. But no, only the first third of THE MASON HOUSE takes place in the UP, although Bertineau does continue to have ties to this area. Maybe, then, THE MASON HOUSE really isn't the right title for this book.
Rose
Blind Tiger by Sandra Brown
In Foley, TX, Thatcher Hutton jumps off a train after being attacked by some others on the train. Bruised, he wanders down the road to find Laurel Plummer, a widow, who is living with her father-in-law, Irv, and baby daughter. He feels an immediate attraction, but she shoos him away. That same night, a woman goes missing and Thatcher is questioned because he is the new guy in town. The mayor accuses Thatcher, and the sheriff jails him. However, the sheriff doesn't think he did it and later asks Thatcher to be a deputy. Meanwhile, Laurel needs to earn some money to help Irv with expenses after they move to a nicer place. She discovers that Irv is into moonshine, and she becomes involved. Sexy, suspenseful novel. Audio also great.
Helen
The Sentence by Louise Eldrich
Riveting! A fascinating story by one of America’s greatest authors. Set in a haunted Minneapolis bookshop set before and during the Pandemic and the turbulent times of the killing of George Floyd. A great books to discuss.
Jamie
Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Fast-paced and characters are great.
Rose
The Replacement Wife by Darby Kane
I would give this 3.5 stars. This thriller by Darby Kane puts Elisa in the center of a struggle between her husband, Harris, and his brother, Josh. Elisa starts being concerned about Josh when his fiancee and Elisa's friend, Abby, disappears without a trace. This is after Josh's wife, Candace, died "in an accident". Elisa starts investigating Josh's life, as she is suspicious of his explanations. Then, Josh brings home a new girlfriend. Then, odd things start making Harris question Elisa's sanity. I enjoyed this book in some ways, but in other ways, I couldn't believe the situation. Some of it seemed a bit extraordinary. I didn't like that Harris sided with Josh vs. Elisa. I liked the final chapter, a good ending.
Elizabeth
Unmissing by Minka Kent
She was missing and presumed dead for ten years. How could she be back? UNMISSING has a sinister undertone with surprises you will love and not expect. Thriller fans will love this book and not want to put it down.
Francisca
A Cup of Light by Nicole Mones
2.5 stars. Lia Frank is an appraiser/art historian, specializing in fine Chinese porcelain who goes to Beijing to authenticate a collection of rare pieces and finds herself in the midst of a multi-national effort to remove priceless artifacts from China. I think Mones was trying to do too much in one book. The art intrigue is story enough, but then she added a romance. Also, I’m not sure why she chose to make Lia deaf, though I thought that she wrote poetically about the “silence” Lia retreats to when she removes her hearing aids to explore her memory. I certainly liked learning more about Chinese porcelains.
Rose
The Department of Rare Books and Special Collections by Eva Jurczyk
I desperately wanted to love this book since it was about a subject I love --- libraries and books. However, to me, but just okay. It reminded me of THE LIONS OF FIFTH AVENUE by Fiona Davis, since a rare book goes missing from the collection, but I feel the Davis book was more interesting and kept me wanting to read more. While this was a quick read, I wasn't invested in the characters. Liesl, the main character, was at the end of her career, in a lackluster marriage, and tasked with finding the missing book. She has to keep the donors of the library happy and giving. When the thief is revealed, I found it interesting, but at that point, with everything else that had happened, and how the library management handled it, I was disappointed.
Sandra
Wish You Were Here by Jodi Picoult
I will admit that I was almost ready to take a break from reading this book and then chapter seven arrived. I couldn't read fast enough after that. I will say that the author provided an excellent portrayal of the COVID-19 pandemic in this work and presented authentic medical situations that we all have heard about and some that will be very interesting to learn about. All in all, this book is worthy of reading.
