This contest period's winners were Elizabeth B., Elizabeth P. and Vicky B., who each received a copy of THE SHOP ON ROYAL STREET by Karen White and WHAT HAPPENED TO THE BENNETTS by Lisa Scottoline.
Robin
Tangled Up in You by Barbara Freethy
TANGLED UP IN YOU is about a homecoming wrapped up in a mystery and tied together with a romance…a perfect Whisper Lake tale. Returning to Whisper Lake is like going home. I enjoy catching up with the people who live there and the group of friends that are always there for one another. Each and every story in the Whisper Lake series tugs on my heartstrings. The story of Adam and Molly is no different. Two people who couldn’t be more different, find that together they make a beautiful whole.
Nancy
In Love by Amy Bloom
An amazing, heartbreaking memoir about Amy Bloom and her husband, Brian’s, journey with early onset Alzheimer’s.
Kay
Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
Sad but riveting. Liked it more the second time around!
Barbara
Groundskeeping by Lee Cole
This smart well-written novel explores the effects of nature vs. nurture on who and what we become. It's beautifully written in a quiet, thoughtful way.
Barbara
One Night on the Island by Josie Silver
Yes, it's a romance, but this book is so new and refreshing, you can almost breathe the clean island air, feel the cold, sandy wind. All of the characters are fun and believable. I'm a fan of Josie Silver and this is her best book so far. Find a cozy chair, pour your glass of wine, wrap yourself in an afghan, stream Springsteen, and fall in love with ONE NIGHT ON THE ISLAND.
Sandra
The Overnight Guest by Heather Gudenkauf
Several of my books in 2022 seem to have snowstorms as a theme. This “chilling thriller” was a great read.
Julie
The Arrangement by Kiersten Modglin
A thriller of epic proportions wrapped up in a tiny package. A tale of family, deception, and marriage that makes us question just how far we go for those we love.
Melinda
Greenwich Park by Katherine Faulkner
Quite a thrilling story.
Debra
The Attic on Queen Street by Karen White
Welcome to Charleston, where the tea is sweet and secrets are aplenty. There are mysteries and crimes to solve, ghosts to contend with and relationships to tend, repair and nurture.
Characters were quirky, flawed and they seemed so real. The dialogue between the characters was filled with snark and humor, making this book so much fun to read. Ghosts tried to make their presence and need to communicate known by leaving behind little trinkets from the past. I was fascinated to learn about Frozen Charlotte dolls and charm strings which were made from old buttons. I enjoyed my time spent in Charleston and will definitely miss the memorable characters.
Debra
Anticipation by Melodie Winawer
Find a copy of this well written book and a cozy chair. Get ready to enjoy an unforgettable trip to Mystras, Greece, where you will meet memorable characters who come to life on the pages of this book. You will learn about a debilitating disease that has been passed down through many generations and you will experience the brutality of conquests and wars. You will learn some Greek history and maybe even get to sit in on a philosophy lecture. You will also enjoy a sweet romance and you will fall in love with Mystras. This was historical fiction at its best! So very well done and so very much enjoyed!
Rose
Things We Do in the Dark by Jennifer Hillier
Paris Peralta arrives home from a trip to find her husband, comedian Jimmy, dead in the bathroom. His assistant, Zoe, comes in, sees Paris with a razor, and calls 911, accusing Paris of murder. Elsie, Jimmy's oldest friend is a lawyer, and counsels Paris on her defense.
Meanwhile, Paris receives a blackmail letter from Ruby Reyes, the Ice Queen, a convicted murderer. Ruby killed her lover, a banker. Her daughter, Joey (Joelle) was sent to live with relatives. Drew Malcolm, a journalist and podcaster, wants to do a podcast on Ruby, since she is up for parole. Drew was friends with Joey, until they had an argument the night she died. But, when he sees the news, he is shocked and begins to question things he believed to be true. Great end!
Dorothy
The Haunting of Brynn Wilder by Wendy Webb
I thought it was an excellent read even though “haunting“ type stories aren’t my favorite. There were certainly many twists and turns and it kept me guessing what would happen next!
Muriel
Sold on a Monday by Kristina McMorris
The 1930s was a difficult time with people doing things a person today would find surprising. In this book, a young reporter saw two children playing by a house bearing a sign, “Children for Sale.” Ellis snaps a pictures which is accidentally destroyed. When he goes back to take a second picture he finds the home abandoned but takes a picture of the sign and two different children. He writes an article and includes the picture in an effort to impress his boss at the newspaper and receive a promotion. This starts a chain of events Ellis later regrets. Much of the book centers on Ellis’s efforts to find the two children in the second picture, as their mother did end up selling them in an effort to give them a better life.
ARLENE
Woman on Fire by Lisa Barr
I was gripped in suspense and tears! Such an incredible. haunting, and memorable story.
ARLENE
Beautiful Little Fools by Jillian Cantor
A rich and intimate retelling of the classic THE GREAT GATSBY from the perspective of the women in the story: Daisy Buchanan, Jordan Baker, Catherine McCoy, and Myrtle McCoy. The alternating points of view were revealing toward the suspenseful intersection and aftermath of the women's lives.
Jill
Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson
I was taken in right from the start of this story. A brilliant debut about sibling ties and hidden family secrets. The story is multilayered, as is in the making of the traditional “black cake”, with traveling from different countries and touching on love, heartbreak, lies, pain and loss, racial issues and migration. I will be looking forward to more from this author. Also, Hulu has picked this up for a series and I can’t wait to watch.
Colleen
Greenwich Park by Katherine Faulkner
Helen’s idyllic life - handsome architect husband, gorgeous Victorian house and cherished baby on the way (after years of trying). Things begins to change after the first day she attends her first prenatal class where she meets Rachel, an unpredictable single mother-to-to be. Rachel smokes, drinks and professes not to be very maternal. This book had me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end trying to figure what Rachel was all about as she slowly wormed her way into Helen’s life, home, family and friends' lives! The characters become very suspicious of each other so that you don’t know who to trust and where this ride will take you. This thriller ends in a building peak of suspense! You won’t be disappointed, let me tell you!!
Michelle
Bookishness: Loving Books in a Digital Age by Jessica Pressman
"Hard copies, digital print, audiobooks, or all three?" It's a provocative question to lob into a conversation with book lovers. I found Jessica Pressman's BOOKISHNESS: LOVING BOOKS IN A DIGITAL AGE a delightful and absorbing read. However, it's important to note that this is not a pop culture book but rather one of literary and theoretical criticism.
Michelle
Radical Radiance: 12 Weeks of Self-Love Rituals to Manifest Abundance, Beauty, and Joy by Angela Jia Kim
“People, even more than things, have to be restored, renewed, revived, reclaimed and
redeemed …” – Audrey Hepburn. Initially, I was drawn to RADICAL RADIANCE by its fresh, bright, feminine cover. I wasn’t sure what to expect when I opened the book, but with care and joie de vivre, experience and research, Angela Jia Kim shares how to live a life filled with radiance, magic, and happiness. You want her to be your best friend – her energy is that contagious – and her book is a breath of fresh air, positive and uplifting. “To love oneself is the beginning of a lifelong romance.” – Oscar Wilde
Michelle
A History of Wild Places by Shea Ernshaw
What happened to Maggie St. James? Are you intrigued by the idea of a missing author and a long-forgotten reclusive commune buried deep in a dark, cold forest? If you enjoy eerie fairy tales, psychological thrillers, cult psychology and multiple points of view, A HISTORY OF WILD PLACES is for you. Shea Ernshaw's lyrical prose immerses readers into a story fraught with secrets and the power of "groupthink". I loved the unsettling setting, the suspense, the plot twists and Ernshaw's cadenced, powerful writing. A HISTORY OF WILD PLACES is an enticing, spine-chilling must-read.
Michelle
Do You Follow? by J. C. Bidonde
At the core of DO YOU FOLLOW? is Alexa and Beth Martin’s relationship as twins and their traumatic history as girls – traumatic enough to send them to the Weinstein Center, a psychiatric institution. Alexa is released early and, determined to create a life for herself, finds a job and an apartment in New York City. Their father doesn’t want her to have anything to do with Beth once she is released from the facility. The points of view belong to Alexa, Beth and Dr. Greer, the psychiatrist. As readers we know things are being withheld from us, we just don't know what they are. The big revelation late in the novel came as a surprise to me. So make notes of any clues and flashbacks. Bionde has written a fast-paced page-turner.
Michelle
Heiresses: The Lives of the Million Dollar Babies by Laura Thompson
Laura Thompson, who has written biographies of Agatha Christie and the Mitford sisters, is no stranger to writing intelligent and enthralling narratives from sources such as historical records, newspaper articles and personal correspondence. Her latest book, HEIRESSES: THE LIVES OF THE MILLION DOLLAR BABIES is filled with glamour, glitz, drama, and scandal. It also contains more misery, heartbreak and darkness than one would expect. I found HEIRESSES witty, entertaining, insightful and rather haunting.
Provin
False Witness by Karin Slaughter
Thrilling and suspenseful read with many twist and turns. This book is easily one of my new favorites. Karin Slaughter has done it again with FALSE WITNESS!! When you first pick up this book you will notice your getting your money’s worth in words. But this long book turns into a short read with its fast-paced plot. Harley and Calliope are amazing characters. Even though their lives have taken dramatically different paths, the bond they share is unbreakable. As is Slaughter's style, the readers are sure to feel a closeness to the well-described realistic characters. This is the first book I have read that is set during the Covid pandemic, which also made it real for me.
Susan
The Light of the World by Elizabeth Alexander
What a gorgeous memoir!!!!
Susan
The Magnolia Palace by Fiona Davis
Interesting read about the Frick museum and artist models.
Jane
The Frederick Sisters Are Living Their Dream by Jeannie Zusy
Sisters are wonderful to have but sometimes the youngest one, who's in her 50s, has to care for the older ones and not the other way. A beautiful happy book about Bets (the oldest who's in CA) who's hardly in the picture, Ginny, the "special needs" who's 61 and Maggie, the youngest who moves Ginny from her independent life in MD (she's very independent) and she even drove at one time, to upstate New York after what Ginny called her "septic" attack (septis). Ginny is no dummy and some of what she says rings true, but she is stubborn and wants sugar even though her diabetes can kill her. Her antics with her phone, Amazon orders, her eating habits are funny but yet not so much. Maggie gives her all to Ginny despite her busy life.
Jackie
One Step Too Far by Lisa Gardner
A thriller that seemed a little drawn out at times. I almost gave up, but glad I didn’t because the ending was totally unexpected.
Pat
Save Me the Plums by Ruth Reichl
Learned so much about the world of publishing and food from a food writer who lived it from restaurant food critic to editor at Gourmet.
Teresa
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Evelyn does indeed have seven husbands Hollywood-style. They are all means to an end: her rising star in Hollywood or desire to remain on top. She enlists Monique to write a tell-all, memoir, much to this writer’s surprise. She has a lot to tell. I couldn’t identify with Evelyn, nor could I feel particularly sympathetic to her. It felt like she got what she deserved. I did enjoy watching a Monique grow in self confidence and strength as Evelyn’s story continued.
Lori
The Paris Apartment by Lucy Foley
I didn’t care for this one. I only kept reading to "solve" the mystery.
Francisca
Send For Me by Lauren Fox
This is an historical fiction work set both in 1930s Germany and in contemporary Wisconsin, that tells the one family’s story. There were parts of the novel I really liked, when I was completely engaged and caught up in the story. But there were other parts that just fell flat for me. I think this is my fault; I am just so over the dual timeline in historical fiction.
Judie
The Pioneers by David McCollough
The story of the migration into Ohio, then called the Northwest territory and the challenges facing the pioneers, especially the original land holders, the Native Americans.
Jeanne
The Magnificent Lives of Marjorie Post by Allison Pataki
THE MAGNIFICENT LIVES OF MARJORIE POST by Allison Pataki is a well-written, exquisite, intriguing novel about Ms. Post, the daughter and heir of C.W. Post, founder of the Post Cereal Company. It is truly historical fiction at its best. The author did an excellent job in researching the exciting life of Marjorie Merriweather Post. I was intrigued and captivated by the glamour, excitement, romances and marriages of this remarkable woman who accomplished so much in her lifetime. It was heartwarming to read that even though Ms. Post was considered the wealthiest woman in America during that period and even though she had everything money could buy and lived a very lavish lifestyle, she still experienced heartbreak and wanted to be loved.
Jeanne
Drop Acid by David Perlmutter, MD
DROP ACID: The Surprising New Science of Uric Acid - The Key to Losing Weight, Controlling Blood Sugar, and Achieving Extraordinary Health by David Perlmutter, MD is a very important health issue. In my opinion, Dr. Perlmutter zoomed in on facts about uric acid that few people know about, including nutritional and life changes that can make a huge difference in someone’s health. It is explained in easy to understand terms. I especially liked the section on healthy recipes.
Rosa
Pieces of Her by Karin Slaughter
I read this in anticipation of the upcoming Netflix series based on this book. Another great book by Karin Slaughter. Suspenseful with many twists and turns in the plot, while the story is told in alternating sections set in the past and present. It took me a bit to get engaged but then I was all-in, reading into the night. Unputdownable.
Laurie
The Winter Guest by Pam Jenoff
Perfect novel to read during Woman’s Book Month filled with female friendships and courageous sister dedication! I enjoyed re-reading this outstanding fictional history set in Nazi-occupied Poland which is especially relevant as we speak. Brava talented author, Pam Jenoff!
Robyn
Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid
This is the third book I've read by Taylor Jenkins Reid and I love her books. I love the depth of the main characters; it made me laugh and cry.
Diane
Peach Blossom Spring by Melissa Fu
I couldn’t put down this immersive story about Meilin and her journey with her young son Renshu to escape the Japanese bombardment of China just before WWII. It resonated with me at this time as the Ukranian people are fleeing Russia’s invasion. This is such a beautifully-written book with characters you truly care for.
Nina
The President's Daughter by Bill Clinton and James Patterson
This storyline became somewhat predictable and routine for me. At well over 500 pages, it became quite lengthy.
Becky
Fifty Words for Rain by Asha Lemmie
At times, Nori’s life is tragic. A surprise ending!
Becky
The Book Woman’s Daughter by Kim Michele Richardson
4.5 stars. Vivid picture of Appalachia, Kentucky landscapes/lifestyles. I love the whole idea of the Packhorse Library Program!
Marilyn
Echo by Pam Munoz Ryan
Good discussion on how people who are different have been and are treated in the U.S.A.
LINDA
Cherry Pie by Sotia Lazu
I loved Book 3, but I missed Book 1 and 2! Cherry had a chance to be human again, but it would mean no longer seeing Constantine again and it hurt her big time. As she had been a model, she tried to get back in the game, but no one wanted a thirty-year-old model. She agreed to go into partnership with her best friend, and she saw the underbelly of men that she had not seen when she was a vampire. And she finally knew what to do with her human life. I loved that Constantine let Cherry go as he wanted her to be happy; she'd chosen Alex over him and he'd stayed out of her life for the most part unless it was an emergency. Book 3 was so hot, I almost needed ice as both men rocked her world!
LINDA
Vanilla for Villains by C. R. Fulton
Wow, I was intrigued with the first paragraph and I was not disappointed!! Beck had agreed to spend a month with her grandmother who lived in Montana. She was a city girl and she hoped to learn who her dad was. By the time she got to the ranch, she walked into a crime scene and her grandmother was dead. I loved the idea that Beck used essential oils to treat everything, now I'm researching oils for myself! I loved that Beck's grandmother had taken in Eli from his abusive father and now he came back to take care of her, but he had failed as the so-called "bear" had killed her. From SEAL training, he knew that he could defeat anything.
Diane
True Betrayals by Nora Roberts
She is one of the authors I read frequently. This book is typical of most of her books.
Sheree
Anatomy: A Love Story by Dana Schwartz
A really entertaining book. I would have liked a better ending but I can see why she ended it as she did. Loved the strong female character.
Joan
Still Life by Sarah Winman
While a hard read, this book is about found family set in beautiful Florence, Italy. Diverse, charming characters are bound together by their love of Florence and each others’ differences.
Rosemary
The Overnight Guest by Heather Gudenkauf
Wylie Lark, a true crime author, is hold up in an isolated farmhouse trying to finish her latest book when a vicious winter storm hits. While trying to deal with her own tragic past, the storm grows worse, and she finds a small child lying in the snow near her door. This brings back horrible memories as she tries to help the child, find out how the child got there, why the child won't talk to her and what threat looms over them both. An excellent read, but don't try it on a dark, snowy night!
Rachel
The Pessimists by Bethany Ball
Well-written study of three families in Connecticut and their relationship with a private school. Everyone wants the best for their children, but what is the best? How far are you willing to go?
Linda
The Downstairs Neighbor by Helen Cooper
Every character has a big secret, and they all collide and are revealed. Very well written, with short chapters so it's easy to keep reading instead of getting back to the housework!
Linda
Not Dark Yet by Peter Robinson
I liked this better than a few Peter Robinson/DCI Banks books I've read recently. It moved right along and I couldn't see where the plot was headed, which bothers me in mysteries. It also wrapped some plot elements from the past few novels in a satisfying way.
Sherry
The Forest of Vanishing Stars by Kristin Harmel
I loved this book. These endearing characters brought me along a journey of survival in the forest during WWII. This was a great story capturing the plight of Jews who escaped the Nazis with an homage to the brave resistance that worked to undermine the regime.
Vicki
The Night Shift by Alex Finlay
I didn't like it as much as EVERY LAST FEAR. Or I liked it but I wasn't on the edge of my seat with my mind all over the place trying to anticipate what was next. I think I gave EVERY LAST FEAR 4 stars, and it stayed on my mind for awhile after finishing it. I will keep reading Alex Finlay and hope I like the next one better.
Bridget
The Paris Apartment by Lucy Foley
Third book I've read by this author. After reading all of the glowing reviews, I was excited to get to it. Sadly, I was disappointed. Yes, there were twists and turns to keep me reading more, but there wasn’t a single character I could like, even a little. The ending seemed too contrived. Surprising, sure, but just too good to be true.
Susan
The Women of Copper Country by Mary Doria Russell
Tells of the copper strike of 1913 in Calumet, Michigan.
Donna
Dark Horse by Gregg Hurwitz
The Orphan X books are stellar. I am such a fan of Evan Smoak and hope a series for TV is being made from these books. In this one, X is working to find the beloved daughter of the head of a major drug cartel who has been kidnapped by another cartel. What makes these books stand out is that X is trying to become a good person in spite of the work he does. The characterization is really good and I look forward to the next one in the series.
Linda
Nomadland by Jessica Bruder
Very interesting book. I did not know about these people before this book came out. My husband and I do a lot of camping during the summer and I was really surprised at what the various types of campers are used. I think we may have seen some of them on our various travels. I think they are all very brave.
Kay
Find Me by Alafair Burke
Just finished FIND ME by Alafair Burke in two days and couldn't put it down. Throughout the story there was always the question of whether Hope really had amnesia or not, which was inter-woven with the plot. Follow clues to the last page to determine your take on this mystery! Well-written and crafted plot.
Linda
Beautiful Little Fools by Jillian Cantor
Based on one of my favorite classics, THE GREAT GATSBY by F. Scott Fitzgerald, Cantor explores the plot from the women characters' perspectives. Who actually murdered Jay???
Betty Jo
Wish You Were Here by Jodi Picoult
My first fiction dealing with the effects of the Covid19 virus. The author weaves memory into the dynamics of being on a vent in a comma and memory loss from dementia. A really good book.
Ann Marie
Crossroads by Jonathan Franzen
This book was so great. I loved Jonathan Franzens characters and this book was just so great. I would recommend this book so highly. I loved it.
Ann Marie
Sundial by Catriona Ward
I loved THE LAST HOUSE ON NEEDLESS STREET by Catriona Ward so much, I had to read SUNDIAL as the first few chapters were in the back of NEEDLESS STREET and I was pulled in. I love her books so much and I'm dying to read LITTLE EVE which I hope is coming to the U.S. soon. LITTLE EVE is slated as a horror and I cannot wait. I think she is definitely my new favorite author.
Ellyn
Band of Sisters by Lauren Willig
Loved to find out this was an actual group of college women who lent their help during WWI in
France. Characters based on real people and is a combination of fiction and fact.
shelly
Run Rose Run by Dolly Parton and James Patterson
Annie Lee won't stop till she gets to Nashville and will do whatever it takes to get there. All of us have secrets but none are as terrible as Annie Lee's. When she arrives in Nashville and goes into the Cat's Paw she wants to sing. She said she does not care about money and has been writing and singing songs for years and all she needs is a chance. Once she performs, Ethan Blake, who is also a performer at the saloon is blown away by her voice and beauty. He calls Ruthanna Ryder, the country music grandest retired queen who also happens to own the place and begs her to come and listen. Finally, she agrees and together they decide to take her under their wing and help her. Her talents are wonderful.
Becky
The Power Couple by Alex Berenson
A FBI agent’s daughter is kidnapped. Lots of twists in this story. An unexpected ending!
Becky
Freefall by Jessica Barry
There are many plot twists, right up to the ending. Where has Allison been all these years? Allison has many secrets! Two determined women are both in danger.
Becky
One Italian Summer by Rebecca Serle
This book is about bonding, love, grieving, and learning your parents aren’t always perfect. Very scenic picture of her adventures.
Janet
The Magnolia Palace by Fiona Davis
Fiona Davis never disappoints us! This book was loosely based on the real life artist model, Audrey Munson, and set in 1919 in New York City’s Frick Museum. The second storyline takes place in 1966 and involves a model, Veronica, who gets an important photo shoot at the Frick Museum. How Davis ties these two stories together will keep you reading from the beginning to the end without stopping!
Elizabeth
Vampires in the Lemon Grove by Karen Russell
I bought this book after receiving a recommendation from the Biblioracle - a columnist for the Chicago Tribune who recommends a book to you based on the last 5 books you read. I told him I wanted to read more short stories. I usually just read the Best American Short Story collections each year. It was a different experience to read a collection from one author. Karen Russell is very talented. Her stories were varied but had a common dark vibe. The Biblioracle described them as funny. I only found one of the stories funny but they were all smart and creative.
Dianne
The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie
A young Indian boy leaves reservation school to attend the school in town. A coming-of-age story encompassing issues like poverty, racism, alcoholism, death and sexuality. Arnold/Junior finds a way to fit into the "white" world at Reardon and the Indian world on the reservation.
Ivy
Ace of Spades by Faridah Abike-Iyimide
The only words I can find to describe this incredible story (that's one) is brilliant and mind-blowing.
Karen
Yellow Wife by Sadeqa Johnson
Loved it. A page-turner. Pheby gets entangled at two different plantations. She falls in love with Essex at the first one but her mistress does not like her. At this second plantation, she is matched with the jailer/master who is brutal to his slaves but generally treats Pheby as his mistress. Essex escapes from the first plantation and is later recaptured and taken to be punished at Pheby's new plantation.
Gerry
Wish You Were Here by Jodi Picoult
I can't give this novel more than three stars. In the end I liked it, but for a while I hated it. The first almost-two-thirds of the novel dragged for me, and when I reached the end of part one (60% into the book) I literally wanted to throw the book across the room. It felt like a cheap trick and I felt cheated. Part two was better - more engaging and interesting to me. I can respect the enormous amount of research that the author put into the project, and do think it stands up well as a record of the Covid experiences of many people, especially New Yorkers, and that made it a worthwhile read.
Gerry
Ellie and the Harpmaker by Hazel Prior
3-1/2 stars for this sweet story of a man and woman who meet and bond unexpectedly over their mutual love of harps and music. I do enjoy quirky, offbeat characters, and this novel had more than one.
Gerry
The Widows of Malabar Hill by Sujata Massey
3-1/2 stars. I found the cultural details about the Parsi community in Bengal to be very interesting, but the plot of this novel seemed to need some tightening. Three women, secluded in purdah, are left widowed when their husband dies, and suddenly their solicitor receives a letter from the three requesting that their inheritance be turned over to a family charity. Perveen Mistry, the first female solicitor in India, takes on the task of determining whether the women have made this choice freely, and that task becomes increasingly complicated when yet another death occurs in the household.
Michelle
Sometimes I Lie by Alice Feeney
Great page-turner that puts your brain on alert from page one trying to figure out what is going on. Very clever and suspenseful. Alice Feeney is a master plot twister!
Gerry
Violeta by Isabel Allende
4-1/2 stars. In an interview, Isabel Allende said that this novel is based on the life of her mother, who died in 2018 at age 98. Violeta, the narrator and main character of the novel, was born in 1920 during the Spanish Flu pandemic, and died in 2020, during the coronavirus pandemic. In between, she lived through a time of extraordinary changes. Always engaging and very well written, with a large cast of interesting characters, VIOLETA is more than the story of an individual; it's the story of a century told through one individual's experiences.
Gerry
Clap When You Land by Elizabeth Acevedo
Inspired by true events, CLAP WHEN YOU LAND is the story of two families who share a father: he has a wife and daughter in the Dominican Republic, and a wife and daughter in New York City. The girls learn of each other's existence when their father is killed in a plane crash on his way from one family to the other, a trip he has taken annually throughout the girls' lives. Narrated by the author, this novel in free verse is touching and inspiring in its portrayal of families dealing with grief, secrets, and their own fears.
Gerry
My Last Continent by Midge Raymond
4-1/2 stars for an outstanding debut novel. Set primarily in Antarctica, MY LAST CONTINENT is a love story about the fraught relationship between Deb and Keller, two naturalists working on a penguin research project, and also between each of them and the continent itself. It's also a beautiful exploration of the environment and inhabitants of that desolate region, and of the impacts, both positive and negative, of tourism and human intervention in the area.
Gerry
Survival in Auschwitz by Primo Levi
I read this memoir at the recommendation of a favorite local author, Lisa Scottoline, in her Facebook post commemorating International Holocaust Remembrance Day. Though not at all an easy read, it is one that will stay with me. This was a challenging read, both because of the heaviness of the content and also because so many words and phrases were written in languages other than English, without translation. I found myself pausing frequently as I read, both to look up the meanings of so many unfamiliar words, and to give my mind and heart a brief respite from the unrelenting horror of the experiences Levi described. Levi's focus in this memoir is on analyzing what the experience in the concentration camps taught him about human nature.
Gerry
The School for Good Mothers by Jessamine Chan
This was a rather horrifying portrayal of a mother punished by the state for a serious lapse in judgement. Frida is a single mother, having been deserted by her unfaithful husband when their daughter was only three months old. Her efforts to reconcile were stymied by his refusal to give up his mistress. After a challenging few days with little sleep because of her baby's crying, Frida left the baby alone in the house, intending to pick up a file at her office and return home quickly. But she stayed away longer than planned, and returned home to find that a neighbor had called Child Protective Services, and her baby had been removed from the home. The rest of the novel details her efforts to learn to be a "good mother" and regain custody.
Gerry
Anthem by Noah Hawley
There were moments when I loved this novel, and other moments when I considered abandoning it. It's a bit all over the place, a very ambitious and generally successful overview of the current state of our country and our world. There were so many characters, quite a few with multiple names and identities, and it was challenging to keep track of who each one was and what role they played in the story. Seemingly unrelated threads took those characters on adventures across the country, and what a country they found! Hawley vividly portrays twenty-first century America with its culture wars and alternative realities, then carries those wars to the extreme, until a ragtag group of youngsters battles to stop the plundering of Earth's resources.
Gerry
The Last Thing He Told Me by Laura Dave
Owen Michaels doesn't come home as expected from work, leaving his wife of only 18 months with only a brief note delivered by a neighbor girl: "Protect her." Hannah understands the note to refer to Owen's 16-year old daughter, with whom her relationship remains tenuous at best. She is left to navigate an uncertain future while trying to figure out why her husband has disappeared. This compelling combination of mystery and family drama captivated me from the start and held my interest throughout. While a few details felt more than a little improbable, especially near the end of the book, overall it was a satisfying read.
Gerry
The Four Winds by Kristin Hannah
My expectations were not high when I started this book, but Hannah gradually drew me in until her characters began to seem more real and I wanted to see what would happen to them. The early chapters about Elsa's family and her "rebellion" seemed simplistic and improbable, and I was not especially disappointed when her "rescuer" left the story altogether. Once she and her family were on their own, the story became more compelling and the characters more engaging. The ending was a bit pat and in some ways too much "happily ever after". Hannah's writing style is simple and uncomplicated, making this novel accessible to more readers, perhaps, than THE GRAPES OF WRATH or other more complex novels about this period, making it a worthwhile read.
Marilyn
The Shop on Royal Street by Karen White
This book is a winner and definitely a must-read.
Joanne
The Break Up Book Club by Wendy Wax
Really enjoyed reading about this group of women and their book club fun (though there is one guy in the club). A great wrap-up ending, too.
Christina
The Wish by Nicholas Sparks
I didn't know this book was going to deal with cancer. I have mixed feelings about it, so far as I know the main character is going to die a painful death from cancer. I will finish it but not one of my favorites.
Suzanne
The Husband's Secret by Liane Moriarty
The book deals with three women Cecilia, Rachael and Tess and how their lives are connected by the secret and decisions they make. This is my first book by Liane Moriarty, but I will look for her other books.
Joanne
The House of Morgan by Ron Chernow
After reading THE PERSONAL LIBRARIAN, I became interested in reading THE HOUSE OF MORGAN, a long book, but Chernow is great at these historical tomes!
Linda
Heaven’s Keep by William Kent Krueger
Cork O’Connor’s wife, Jo, is traveling with a group of tribal chiefs when their plane goes down. Cork and his son Stephen head to Wyoming to join the search team. The terrain where the plane is thought to have gone down is rocky and is now covered with deep snow, but nothing is found and the search is soon called off. Six months later, the wife of the pilot contacts Cork. The man piloting the plane was not her husband and the investigator she hired is missing. Cork was battling a developer named Hugh Palmer about ruining the area close to Sam’s Place. When he hears about the missing men, he puts his own plane at Cork’s use and goes along to help search for Jo or her remains.
Linda
Someone to Cherish by Mary Balogh
Lydia Tavernor is the widow of the Reverend Isaiah Travernor, a man more concerned about his sermons than he was about his wife and their marriage was not a happy one. Growing up the single female in the household, her father and brothers stifled her in the name of protecting her. She is free and loves her independence. Harry Westcott walks her home one night and they talk when she suddenly asks him if he’s lonely and wouldn’t he like someone to be comfortable with? He is seen kissing her on her forehead and gossip starts. He asks her to marry him but she declines even though she is madly in love with him. If she marries, it will be on her terms and not to satisfy the gossips.
Linda
You May Kiss the Bride by Lisa Berne
Livia Stuart was sent to live with her aunt and uncle after her parent’s deaths and was never welcomed. Wearing hand-me-down clothes, she is invited to a ball hosted by the parents of Cecily Orr, a fair-weather friend of Livia. She hopes that Gabriel Penhallow will pop the question. Gabriel sees Livia leave the ballroom with Cecily’s brother and follows to get them to come back inside. Instead he ends up kissing Livia and is found by Cecily and Livia’s uncle who demands that Gabriel marry her. He agrees and his indomitable grandmother is faced with making her into a lady. Cecily is furious and wanted Gabriel and his money while Livia just wants the man who knows how to kiss.
Linda
The Perfect Murder by Kat Martin
Reese Garrett, CEO of Garrett Resources, has been considering the purchase of an offshore drilling platform but accidents keep occurring. When Reese is injured in a helicopter accident on the way to the platform, it is no accident but sabotage. Their main competitor is a company owned by Arthur Haines and Troy Graves. Reese’s personal assistant McKenzie Haines was married to Arthur’s son Lee. Arthur has a gambling problem and is in debt to a casino owner for several million. Lee is killed to get Arthur’s attention. Then Arthur’s grandson Griff is kidnapped. Since Griff is McKenzie's son and Reese is in love with McKenzie, Reese gets involved.
Michelle
A Magic Steeped in Poison by Judy I. Lin
Great book! Story about a young girl and what she does to try to save her sister's life. Lots of twists and turns. An insight into Chinese herbal medicine and all the different uses. Beautifully written, very descriptive, you felt like you were actually there!
Linda
One Step Too Far by Lisa Gardner
Tim O’Day goes camping with his four groomsmen and disappears. His father guilt trips the guys to return every year and look for evidence of Tim. Former district ranger Nemeth is hired to head up the team. But he has his own agenda and Martin O'Day will not find Tim's remains. Frankie Elkin is also along this time. She has committed her life to finding missing persons, and most of the time she finds remains. She is determined to find Tim's remains. A battle ensues between good and evil.
Bliss
The Lincoln Highway by Amor Towles
Love the author's writing style. He developed the characters well. I grew tired of some of the storylines and was ready to move on. Amor ended the book well, leaving it open for a sequel.
Bliss
The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh
Awesome character development. The storyline was real and raw. Vanessa put incredible research into flowers. I learned so much!!!
Bliss
Wish You Were Here by Jodi Picoult
This book was SO well written with a neck jerk in the middle. I could not put it down!!! It was real, raw, frustrating at times, and emotionally riveting. I still think about it often and choose it for our book club so I could talk about it with others!!
Lois
I Am the Messenger by Markus Zusak
Ed becomes a messenger in an unusual way. But then he continues helping and harming people. The question remains - Who is now the messenger?
Rose
The Castle School (for Troubled Girls) by Alyssa Sheinmel
Moira is grieving her best friend's death. When Nathan died, she didn't want to go on without him. She cut school, visited his grave site, ignored her own family. Her parents got so desperate, they sent her to a school in Maine, hoping that this would help. The school is run by Dr. Prince, and only has 12 students, all girls. Moira is sure that Dr. Prince is running some sort of experiment on the girls who all have some reason for being there: cutting, anorexia, running away, stealing. addiction, etc. Throughout the course of her stay, Moira experiences things she didn't expect, making friends with the other girls, caring for other people. She initially sees this as cheating on Nathan. Moira's sessions with Dr. Prince offer insights.
ARLENE
The Power of the Dog by Thomas Savage
I enjoyed the storytelling. The book had a strong sense of place, complicated characters, and psychological tension. I think it will make my movie-watching experience of its film adaptation (available on Netflix) more searing and poignant.
Rose
The Sixth Wedding by Elin Hilderbrand
Cooper Blessing proposes to Stacey Patterson, but when she says no because he has already been married and divorced 5 times, he decides to have a bachelor party on Nantucket anyway. Friends gather once again on Labor Day weekend, just like they did 30 years ago. Jake, now divorced from Ursula, returns, but misses Mallory. Fray and Leland return and rekindle their relationship. Link, Mal’s soon, and Bess, Jake’s daughter start a relationship. This was a short novella revisiting the friends from 28 SUMMERS. I enjoyed reading about the locations in Baltimore!
Samantha
The Employees by Olga Ravn
Told from the format of Memos and HR/Admin Check-ins, Ravn tells the story of 22nd Century workforce that's going about their projected businesses up in space, away from Earth, assuming something horrible has happened the the livability of the planet we all know and love. Employees are made of half Humans and half Humanoids. Their task is to collect "Objects" from a planet called New Discovery and I'm assuming the premise here was to analyze these objects and get a better understanding on if this new planet is habitual for humans to survive and flourish on.
Seems like a perfect system, right? Wrong, because in every system and workplace, things break and go wrong eventually.
Mary Lynn
Passing by Nella Larsen
Read for a "Classics" book club. Fantastic read! Great to watch the Netflix film after finishing.
Becky
The Turn of the Key by Ruth Ware
I'd probably give this a 4-1/2 stars, but that wasn't an option. This book had me engrossed until the very last page. There were twists and turns, things I suspected would happen but also many I didn't see coming.
Bliss
Rock Paper Scissors by Alice Feeney
Awesome character development with a fabulous twist that made me go back and read some chapters again to see what I missed. I did not like the ending but could not stop thinking about the book for weeks after I finished.
Bliss
A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman
Hilarious, sad, heart-warming, endearing. This book immediately drew me in. I quickly became interested in Ove and his unique personality. I laughed aloud and cried as his life story unfolded. Great read!!!
Bliss
Apples Never Fall by Liane Moriarty
Really struggled with this book. I wanted SO much to enjoy it, just could not! I lost interest in the storyline and the characters. The ending was disappointing. Not one of Liane Moriarty's best books.
Helene
The Match by Harlan Coben
I couldn’t put this book down. I read it in a day and a half. Harlan Coben is such a good writer and he really knows how to keep the plot moving and the suspense high.
Betty
The Lying Club by Annie Ward
Complex, suspenseful, so many lies, so much manipulation, thrilling twists - I loved it. There is something juicy about eavesdropping into the lives of the privileged wealthy and observing their fall. Great characters, even if they are mostly unlikeable. They seemed real, and I loved their juicy secrets and lies.
Jane
Death Valley Hideout by Dana Mentink
Dana's books just get better and better. Suspense builds as life challenges surface over and over. Danger as Tony and Willow try to keep two kids safe many times. Faith as God is trusted to provide safety. Tony asks Willow to watch the kids for day. She knows it is his birthday so wants to surprise him. She isn't prepared for what they encounter upon arrival. Willow's family all walk in to help protect since Willow refuses to walk away. Danger mounts. God protects them all over many situations. I challenge you to read this book and then all Dana's books. None will disappoint you.
Donna
The Club by Ellery Lloyd
This is a murder mystery set on the England coast. A company that has multiple private settings with luxurious suites for celebrities is launching their newest site, Island Home, with a weekend celebration with a limited guest list. The company, Home, is well known for complete privacy for their guests with cell phones not permitted on their properties. An invite to the opening is a sought after opportunity. The background on Home and the tensions among the staff regarding the opening are on display. Several deaths occur with many guests and staff questioning whether the A list invite was a good idea. The story is told from alternating view points. The extravagance and excess were too much for me to recommend the book.
Rose
The Noise by James Patterson and J. D. Barker
I wasn't expecting a science fiction thriller. When Tennant and her sister, Sophia, are hunting in the Oregon woods, a phenomenon comes through - an unbearably loud noise, and they are forced into their underground shelter by their father. From then on, Sophia has changed. She is speaking in a sinister voice, and seems to know things she shouldn't. They are thousands of people affected, and everyone, including the POTUS is involved in the crisis. This is a bizarre story, and also frightening.
Claire
Angels of the Pacific by Elise Hooper
A touching war-time story that looked at WWII from a different perspective than the one I am used to. It kept me engaged from start to finish as Tess, an army nurse stationed in the Philippines, and Flor, a local who gets involved in the underground effort, find new and creative ways to thwart their enemies and hold on to hope in the most dire of situations. For me, the most interesting part was the clear amount of research the author poured into this amazing project that felt less like it was teaching me about history and Pacific culture and more like it was including me in them!
Beth
Falling by T. J. Newman
If you can suspend disbelief here and there, you'll really enjoy FALLING. I did, and so did everyone else in my book group. FALLING is a fast read because you won't want to put it down.
Margaret
The Lincoln Highway by Amor Towles
The setting is in Nebraska first, then New York City, in the mid-1950s. Emmett and Billy are brothers & I loved their relationship. They plan to drive to San Francisco to find their mother but get side tracked & end up in NYC. So much is going on during their adventure due to all the unnecessary side stories. And everything went wrong for them no matter what they did or where they were. The book was way too long for me at nearly 600 pages. However, I stuck with it because I liked the main characters enough to want to know how things worked out for them. I could have done without many of the characters - there were just too many of them. Each chapter had a different character's point-of-view. There is a lot of unnecessary shifting around.
Anita
A Bend in the Stars by Rachel Barenbaum
An interesting book that takes place in Russia at the beginning of WWI in 1914. A young Jewish woman becomes a doctor which at the time was highly unusual. In addition her brother is a brilliant man trying to proof Einstein's theory of relativity. Very interesting book, but difficult to read at times because of the horror that was going on and the way the Jewish people were treated.
Tessa
L. A. Weather by María Amparo Escandón
3.5 stars rounded up. This is a funny, engaging, endearing novel that looks at a year in the life of one affluent Mexican-American family. It starts with a near tragedy and the characters (and reader) hardly have time to recover from that event when yet another crisis looms, and before long everyone in the family is spinning and bouncing from issue to issue, like balls in an out-of-balance pinball machine. The winds, drought and fires add more tension to the family’s internal strife, and ultimately help them focus on the things they CAN change, rather that what they have no control over. They still make bad decisions, and there is no happily ever after ending, but I was completely invested in these characters by the end, and I want more!
John
The Mixtape by Brittainy Cherry
This is a heartwarming story about how great it is to work as a bartender and make new friends!
Kimberley
The Truth Hurts by Rebecca Reid
A beautiful, young nanny crosses paths with a handsome, rich gentleman and they quickly marry. Once they return to London, life for the newlyweds begins to unravel. Her secretive past collides with his mysterious actions. It is fast-paced and an exciting thriller. The novel is a great length and the character development keeps the reader guessing.
Rose
The School for Good Mothers by Jessamine Chan
This novel is heartbreaking. Frida adores her daughter, Harriet, but in a moment of weakness she leaves her child alone for a few hours. Child Protective Services is called to evaluate Frida's fitness to be a mother. Frida is sent to a school to teach bad mothers how to be good mothers. The lengths at which these women are tested in frightening and demeaning. The standards they are held to are unreal and made me angry. Frida tries so hard, but nothing seems to go right.
This book was very difficult to read. Of course, we want children to be in safe, loving homes. But this novel depicts protective services in such a way that I wonder how much the system works against the parents.
Linda
A Little Hope by Ethan Joella
In this book we learn about the problems, concerns, upsets, heartaches and losses of a group of people living in Connecticut. Ethan Joella describes these characters with nice details, and easy to read prose, and I felt close to many of them. Everything is not wrapped up with a bow, which made the book believable and relatable. Life is hard at times and Joella's attention to the bad days is strong here, but he also highlights good days and meaningful relationships too. This is a good book, and I am glad I read it.
Rene
The Match by Harlan Coben
Good follow up to A BOY IN THE WOODS. A delve into Wild's ancestry. Even got me thinking about and using online software to check into my own ancestors. A little disappointed that the plot was not as involved or as exciting as his other books have been.
Helen
The Magnolia Palace by Fiona Davis
Fantastic read. Historical fiction centering on the Frick Mansion and its treasures! Highly recommend for book club.
Margaret
Finding Jesus in Everyday Moments: 100-Day Devotional Journal for Women by Ann Cetas
Anne Cetas is an author for Our Daily Bread. She uses her vast experience and Biblical knowledge to write this new book with a focus on the Bible. She writes a short story each day to correspond to that day's reading. There are questions to ponder on whether or not you are living your life to honor our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. There is a place to journal your answers. Each day's devotion ends with one of the following: a Bible verse, a prayer, words from a Christian song, words of inspiration, or more questions. I felt like each day was a mini Bible study. The title says it's for women but I feel it would be appreciated by men also.
Michelle
Hook, Line, and Sinker by Tessa Bailey
Great rom com! Such a sweet story! Loved the characters. Really shows how sometimes people become what they are labeled, and how hard it can be to change that.
Sherri
The Drums of August by Diana Gabaldon
Another fun romp in the Outlander series.
Lana
The Judge’s List by John Grisham
I probably would not have read this book on my own, but did so as my book club selected it as its March 2022 read at the suggestion of a member. Overall, it kept me engaged. The storyline moved along at a good pace and the characters were adequately developed. It was adequate and that was it; nothing exceptional. I found the writing to be pretty elementary, but the author is popular so obviously many readers enjoy his writing. If my book club wants to read more of his books I'm fine with it, but I probably won't be reading them otherwise.
Robin
Unboxing Raymond by Len Boswell
When a treasure box, not filled with gold or silver, but, filled with memories, arrives, author Len Boswell takes the readers on a discovery of just who his father is, one item at a time. The story is prefaced with the note that he and his father had a contentious relationship. His father was often a difficult and cruel man, but the items in the box, are both poignant and charming.
I can’t imagine that this story was easy to write. A trip down memory lane can be emotional. But when the trip is accompanied by sad, often hostile memories, I’m convinced it is unbearably hard. There must have been times when the author wanted to shelve this project. My heart goes out to Len, as he brings his father back to life, one memory at a time.
Robin
The Bright Side Running CLub by Josie Lloyd
The strength of sisterhood and the commitment of a running group help Keira face her cancer diagnosis and overcome her struggles. Poignant, touching, brave, and bold are words that describe both this book and the author. I am humbled by the strength and courage these women displayed as they faced their future head-on. Thank you for touching my heart and blessing my soul with this simple yet beautiful story.
Gail
The Winemaker's Wife by Kristin Hamel
Another WWII novel about the French resistance in the area of Reims, France, a champagne growing region. This story is very timely now with what is going on in the Ukraine and brings an awareness to how people stand up to an invading force to the established borders. Some of the characters are a bit shallow, however, the story moves forward with a few surprising twists at the end.
Rose
The Best of Me by David Sedaris
David Sedaris has put together a series of essays that he has enjoyed and gone back to over the years. I laughed out loud at some of these and had my heartstrings tugged at others. I enjoyed the author's reading of his essays, I feel that having him read them was authentic. Sedaris explores family and traditions, and is a keen observer of other people. The interview at the end of the audiobook is also enjoyable.
Richard N B
The Power of One by Bryce Courtenay
A challenge to travel the world brought this one to my attention, and am I ever glad it did! I’m not the writer Courtenay is, so can’t really do justice to the plot of this coming-of-age story. But the writing grabbed me from page one and I was sorry to see it end. I was cheering for Peekay throughout. And while I’m no fan of boxing, I even enjoyed the lessons on strategy and technique
Rose
Smile: The Story of a Face by Sarah Ruhl
After Sarah Ruhl delivers her twins, a nurse notices that her eyelid is drooping. She has Bell's Palsy. This leaves her with a crooked smile. She details how some of the medical professionals misdiagnose her, and others give her hope. After a long ten years, she has stopped searching for a cure, but a friend helps her find someone who actually does assist her in getting her nerves to react. This is a moving story of someone whose life changed, but she learns that your smile doesn't necessarily portray what is in your heart. Uplifting memoir.
Trez
The Covenant by James A. Michener
Very in-depth story about the historical founding of South Africa.
Rose
Apples Never Fall by Liane Moriarty
Joy and Stan Delaney are parents to four grown children: Amy, Logan, Troy, and Brooke. The Delaneys are all tennis stars, and Joy and Stan ran a tennis school. One of their pupils made it big. He is now going to write a memoir. One night, a woman named Savannah, appears at their home, claiming to have been hit by her boyfriend. Stan and Joy take her in, and Joy and Savannah become close. Then things happen and Joy and Savannah both disappear. Stan is suspected of murder when Joy is reported missing by her children. As the story unfolds, there is more to Savannah's story. This is a story of a long marriage, regret, revenge, competition. The ending is a bit of a surprise. I thought this was one of Moriarty's better novels.
Lauraa
Finlay Donovan is Killing It by Elle Cosimano
Pretty unbelievable story. However, the reading was easy. I loved and hated characters (#1 in my book). Overall a fun read.
Kay
The Violin Conspiracy by Brendan Slocomb
This is indeed a mystery, one without a dead body! The tale of a stolen Stradivarius violin. Its origins and struggles for ownership have the feel of a tornado with the telling of the story. Well written, keeping me glued to the book on to the discovery of how and who had stolen Ray's beloved grandfather's violin.
LISA
Flight Risk by Joy Castro
Unexpected twists in this novel that focuses on overcoming a difficult childhood.
Simonne
The Postmistress by Sarah Blake
WWII from the viewpoint of three different women: Frankie Bard, journalist who reports from Europe and end up dissolutioned and burnt out, Iris James, the postmaster of a Cape Cod town and Emma Fitch, the new wife of the doctor of the same town. The doctor feels compelled to travel to England on a mission to help, but really to ease his conscience. Both Frankie and Iris come into possession of letters to Emma that they did not deliver in order to protect her, but really, if they had delivered the letters, nothing at all would be changed.
Simonne
Into the Darkness by Barbara Michaels
Good mystery/romance novel, but why the characters think and say some things is the real mystery. The protagonist, Meg, inherits a jewelry store in a small town from her grandfather, whom she adored, but he sounds like he was a nut. And how this jewelry store made the family so wealthy is another mystery. Oh well, just go with it I guess.
Simonne
All the Devils are Here by Louise Penny
Another great installment in the Chief Inspector Gamache series. This one takes place in Paris.
Fabulous writing and characters.
Rose
The Cage by Bonnie Kistler
This is a well-crafted legal thriller. When Shay Lambert and Lucy Carter-Jones both get on an elevator at their firm, CDMI (fashion conglomerate Claudine de Martineau International), only one gets off alive. Was it suicide or murder? Why would Lucy, HR manager, kill herself? What is happening at CDMI? Shay Lambert is accused of murdering Lucy, but she swears she is innocent. When Shay goes to work for an adversary of Barrett, CDMI lead counsel, she is hired because she knows something. But Shay refuses to tell, due to the NDA she signed. Will she hold to this, or will she cave? I felt the tension of this novel the whole time I was reading it, never knowing who was the cat or the mouse in this game of manipulation.
Donna
Tying the Knot - Book 2, Wedding Crasher Series by Erin Scoggins
Funny and witty. Wonderful characters. A small town with a group of women who support each other and get into a little mischief. Thoroughly enjoyable.
Donna
Purrfect Murder - The Mysteries of Max by Nic Saint
If you love cats and the idea of a young lady who can communicate with them, you will enjoy these sweet, funny, adorable cats and how they help solve mysteries. Love it!
Beverly
The Tobacco Wives by Adele Myers
Insightful!
Carol
Hollywood Spy by Susan Elia MacNeal
Number 10 in the Maggie Hope series. Not sure what it is, but these books keep drawing the reader in. The core of friends surrounding the British-born, American-raised Maggie Hope expand. She is a math major in WWII, stuck in London during the Battle of Britain, falling in love with her home country. She keeps finding hidden plots and codes. Her friends know this and when there is a suspicious death in America surrounding her former fiancé, Maggie is off to the rescue. Just a fun read about LA in war time. Can’t wait for the next Maggie Hope novel.
Mary
A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini
A beautiful book! Immerses you in the setting. The plight of the people is very real.
Mary
The Judge's List by John Grisham
Another Grisham novel that doesn't disappoint!
Mary
Lightening Strike by William Kent O'Connor
An enjoyable coming-of-age story.
Teresa
A Pattern of Lies by Charles Todd
Another instance of Bess Crawford getting involved in someone else’s troubles brings the WWI British Army nurse to a small town near Canterbury. A gunpowder factory explosion and fire have killed some 100 men, and someone appears to be framing the owner for the deaths. Bess, with the help of the intrepid Sergeant Major Simon and the force of nature Sergeant Lassiter, tries to determine what really happened before a man is hanged.
Mary
Yearbook by Seth Rogen
A comedians collection of essays. Too much talk of being high for my taste. Lots of cursing.
Darlene
The Ghost Bride by Yangsze Choo
I didn't care for it.
Michelle
Sometimes I Lie by Alice Feeney
Great, page-turner that puts your brain on alert from page one trying to figure out what is going on. Very clever and suspenseful. Alice Feeney is a master plot twister!
Michelle
Born a Crime: Stories From A South African Childhood by Trevor Noah
I had no idea who Trevor Noah as a public figure was when I started this audiobook. I was only intrigued by the description of the book, to learn about his experience growing up in South Africa, so I was even more pulled in once I Googled him and learned about his life as an entertainer. It's a pretty straight forward read, simply told but I think I enjoyed it more because I listened to it on audio and he narrated it. His accent and pronunciations of the different languages definitely helped me enjoy it more. Overall, his experiences were interesting to learn about and gave a lot of insight into what it was like to not quite being Black and not quite being White, trying to discover where he fit in and even his place in the larger world.
Jackie
The Girls In the Stilt House by Kelly Mustian
Good first book. Very different storyline. I enjoyed it very much.
Jayme
The Maid by Nita Prose
This is another book where the hype outshined the actual book. I did enjoy the book overall and the main character who I believe is not neurotypical though the author just calls her quirky. My problem with the book is that it seemed like it couldn’t decide if it was a screwball comedy or a social statement. There were several instances in the book that were cringe-worthy and stereotypical. Read this book at the beach this summer or poolside where you don’t have to put a lot of thought into it and I think you will enjoy it more.
Jackie
Seven Perfect Things by Catherine Ryan Hyde
Very sweet story. I have enjoyed other books by this author as well. I love her style - easy, low key pleasant read - especially in times like now, these types of books are so relaxing.
Jayme
Sunshine Warm Sober: Unexpected Sober Joy That Lasts by Catherine Gray
SUNSHINE WARM SOBER is a reflective follow-up to Gray's book THE UNEXPECTED JOY OF BEING SOBER. It contained current research, data and great stories which were very helpful in supporting people who were ready to make the switch to an alcohol-free life. In SUNSHINE WARM SOBER she compares the drinking Catherine to the sober Catherine in her stories and sprinkles in new information from leading doctors in the fields of neuroscience and recovery. This is really an important book to read if you are years into your recovery. For me I had started to forget the reasons I decided to stop drinking and this book helped me to remember where my life was, why I decided to quit drinking, and how wonderful my life is today. Thanks, Catherine.
Amy
The Good Son by Jacquelyn Mitchard
This one had some 4-star points and some 2-star points for me. The plot really appealed to me and it is very well written. However, entire sections seemed to drag on unnecessarily leaving me so happy to finally reach the end.
Laurie
The Foundling by Ann Leary
An interesting thought-provoking fictional history, set in 1920s Pennsylvania, that addresses a woman’s asylum. Based on a true story from the author’s family background, female clubs will find many discussion issues including friendship, racism, sexism and xenophobia.
Linda
The School for Good Mothers by Jessamine Chan
I had no idea what this was about when I began. Its a little HANDMAID'S TALE-ish. Which means I really liked it. A little upsetting at times - a lot of times - but excellent. The main character is flawed, certainly made a mistake when she leaves her 18-month-old home alone. It’s hard to know how to feel at times. Worth the read!
Susan
The Tender Bar by J. R. Moehringer
The writing is exquisite.
MH
The Lost Apothecary by Sarah Penner
Two timelines follow a modern-day woman who finds a vial from an old apothecary shop that dispensed poisons to women who needed to kill someone. The apothecary’s story is the second account. Both storylines were interesting.
Nadine
The Echo Maker by Richard Powers
It is a powerful book and not a fast read.
Deborah
The Violin Conspiracy by Brendan Slocumb
I loved this book. It is heart-wrenching and uplifting at the same time. The story of Ray, a young person of color, who wants nothing more than to play his Pop Pop's violin (which turns out to be a very special violin) that his grandma Nora (the only one who believes in him) for the world. Through all the ups-and-downs -- horrible encounters with police, people's prejudice, those who tell him that "people like him" can't play the violin and even his family's greed and disrespect for and anger at him -- Ray reaches the heights of the music world, always remembering his grandma Nora's advice to always be respectful.
Lisa
Oil and Marble: A Novel of Leonardo and Michelangelo by Stephanie Storey
A fascinating story about the relationship of Leonardo and Michelangelo when their lives intersected in Florence. Besides the age separation, they had different lifestyles and approaches to art. Although historical fiction, the author has done extensive research and provides descriptions of numerous works of art. I am looking forward to reading her second book, RAPHAEL.
Sherrie
Things We Do in the Dark by Jennifer Hillier
THINGS WE DO IN THE DARK is a suspenseful, wild, ever-changing and a story that keeps you thinking and turning pages as fast as you can, for the the next surprise. Great story!
Sandra
The Last House on the Street by Diane Chamberlain
Timely story about bigotry and the racial divide.
Mary Anne
The Love of My Life by Rosie Walsh
This is one of my all-time favorite books. The author reveals the secrets slowly, keeping you guessing (wrong) up to the end. The characters are well developed and relatable. The story is heartbreaking and hopeful. I didn't want it to end, and I can't wait for her next one.
Anne Marie
The Boys by Ron and Clint Howard
An interesting story about two brothers who are well known to millions of people as Opie of the Andy Griffin Show and Mark of Gentle Ben. It's a journey of how they grew up before our eyes and how their parents managed to keep them grounded (at least one of them, but you have to read it to know which one!)
Sheree
The Way of Integrity: Finding the Path to your True Self by Martha Beck
I just couldn't get into this book. I did not come out of it feeling I had learned anything.
Janet
Diablo Mesa by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child
Another book of Corrie and Nora adventures. This one is a mystery about which lots of people question - what happened in Area 51? Exciting adventure. Good characters and good plot.
Janet
The Gold Digger by Liz Tolsma
A fictionalized account of a true serial killer's life. Good, fast-paced novel.
Tracy
The Lost Daughter by Elena Ferrante
Read this after a friend said the book and Netflix movie are very different (have yet to watch the movie.) Nothing happens in the novel except the theft of a doll. Clearly, the protagonist has issues but we never really learn what they are. Highly disappointing.
Patricia
Run Rose Run by James Paterson and Dolly Parton
What a great book to read! I was surprised! Love of Country Western. Some secrets, too.
Janet
Grave Reservations by Cherie Priest
The novel is a bit farfetched. I didn't find the characters likable. The travel agency angle was clever.
Sally-Jo
The Book of Otto and Liam by Paul Griner
An eye-opener of how people twist reality into lies and how a tragedy can bring out the worst in some people, and about the power of love to heal a broken heart.
Muriel
Sooley by John Grisham
I would have chosen a different ending for this story, but it was not mine to tell. The story mostly centered around the excitement and joy of a young Sudanese man nicknamed Sooley who had a chance to leave the violence in his country to play basketball for a small college in the U.S. Grisham created a character the reader could easily love and admire. He had a strong work effort and a desire to succeed. The other part of this story centered upon the family Samuel Sooleymon left behind in war torn Sudan where horrible atrocities were taking place. It makes one appreciate what we have and rekindles a desire to reach out and help those who have experienced so much pain and suffering. This book and its characters affected me deeply.
Janet
Carnegie's Maid by Marie Benedict
Loved this book!
Linda
The Pursuit of Love by Nancy Mitford
A satirical, fun read based on Mitford's own eccentric family and aristocratic English country life in the 1920-1930s.
Donna
The World Played Chess by Robert Dugoni
This is actually the second time I've read this book because our book club is discussing it this month. I absolutely love this book. Dugoni's characters are so richly drawn about three boys becoming men at the age of 18 at different times in history. His depiction of the Vietnam war is spot-on and I could feel the fear and taste the dirt. The modern-day teenage boy has problems which other generations did not encounter. This is one of my all-time favorite books!
Elizabeth
The Cold Millions by Jess Walter
I won this book in a Bookreporter giveaway! It was our book club pick. Everyone enjoyed it very much. I love learning something new and I learned about the early labor movement and about the difficulties of trying to establish labor unions. The setting, Spokane, Washington, was also new to me.
Rosemary
In This Grave Hour by Jacqueline Winspear
A Maisie Dobbs adventure begins as England declares war on Germany on September3, 1939. Shortly after the declaration Maisie is hired by a member of the Belgian Embassy staff to investigate the murder of a former Belgian national who has been living in England since being evacuated from Belgian as a child. When another murder occurs with another former evacuee, Maisie must work harder and faster to prevent more murder. Jacqueline Winspear works her usual mastery of mystery writing to once again pull the reader into the story with her usual twists and turns!
Beth
Carolina Moonset by Matt Goldman
I just read the really good CAROLINA MOONSET by Matt Goldman, a new-to-me author who previously wrote four books I now get to read. And, if author blurbs mean something to you, I'm joined in my praise by William Kent Krueger. Joey, a 45-year-old divorced father from Chicago, is visiting his parents in South Carolina. His father is suffering from dementia and his mother needs a break. While there, Joey meets Leela, the daughter of his parents' next-door neighbors. Together they discover secrets about unsolved murders.
Elizabeth
Our Biggest Experiment: An Epic History of the Climate Crisis by Alice Bell
A well-researched and readable history of climate change from the early-on warnings up to present day and future concerns. Early eighteenth century warnings of the causes of climate change by little known scientists and experimenters were ignored either as supposition or as insignificant at the time - something that the future will bear by which time we will supposedly know how to prevent or minimize the impact of climate change. The author recognizes that climate change has also been attributed to natural causes - volcanic eruptions, for example, but she states, "The warming we're talking about isn't just the sorts of climate fluctuations that would be happening whether humans lived on this planet or not..."
Elizabeth
Payment Deferred by C. S. Forester
This is an appropriate title for C.S. Forester's dark, sad, psychological crime novel involving the lack of money and crippling debt, a ruthless, abominable act, then an abundance of money that brings no lasting happiness. The story is not a typical mystery concerned with the pursuit of a murderer, but shows the psychological impact of a crime on the perpetrator. Bank clerk William Marble is deeply in debt and desperately fears the loss of his position at the bank. He blames his wife's spending as the cause of their debts, but he also knows he has his own extravagances. A murder is committed and fears of being discovered create mental breakdown and family distress. An unexpected turn of events justifies the title of the book.
Elizabeth
Buzz Books 2022: Spring/Summer by Publisher's Lunch
This was a collection of book excerpts of books coming out this spring and summer. There were a few I’d like to read that I added to my want to read list. One that stands out is THE SECRET LIFE OF ALBERT WHISTLE, which sounds like it’s in the vein of a Fredrick Baum book
Edie
One Italian Summer by Rebecca Serle
Love this book. Easy to read! We never really know our parents and what they were like
when they were young. Lots of emotion in this book to relate to.
Cathy
One Italian Summer by Rebecca Serle
Now I'm so ready for a vacation, an Italian one! The story is captivating with a bit of time travel (or fantasy). You will definitely enjoy this trip.
Gerriann
The Paris Library by Janet Skeslien Charles
I like how the author mixed her childhood background and her job at the Paris Library into this very interesting and enjoyable novel with the story of the library during the war years.
Elizabeth
The Tobacco Wives by Adele Myers
You have to try the new cigarette for women…MOMints. Especially made for women and safe for pregnant women. Can you imagine that type of advertisement today? Have you read this book yet? You need to. For women’s fiction fans and historical fiction fans.
Elizabeth
A Stranger Here Below by Charles Fergus
Set in rustic 1835 Pennsylvania, this is an atmospheric story about Deputy Gideon Stoltz, of Pennsylvania Dutch heritage and an outsider in the mostly Scotch-Irish town of Adamant. With hauntings from childhood of finding his mother's dead body, Gideon discovers the body of his mentor, Judge Biddle, an apparent suicide. Reading the judge's diary and after a dead body of a brutally killed man is discovered, Gideon is determined to investigate. The judge's diary tells of a past hanging, that is later found unjustified, but remains relevant to people in Adamant, whose name also describes Gideon. A realistic view of a 19th century mining town with cruelty, prejudices, disease and greed - but also the beauty of truth, nature, and family ties.
Terri
Carnegie’s Maid by Marie Benedit
I thoroughly enjoyed this book - it reminded me a lot of Downton Abbey. It is an historical fiction novel. We had gone to Pittsburgh about three years ago, and I wish I had taken more time to visit any Carnegie site. I highly recommend this great story that kept me wishing for more.
Connie
The Overnight Guest by Heather Gudenkauf
This book had lots of twists and turns which I liked. Well written. I would recommend it even though the ending seemed a bit easy. It still was worth 5 stars.
Tricha
Those Who Are Saved by Alexis Landau
Vera and Max are Jewish and are forced to leave France during WWII. They escaped and leave their daughter Lucie behind. Their relationship becomes strained because of this. Can they survive?
Rose
The Club by Ellery Lloyd
The Club is an exclusive resort run by Ned Groom. His brother, Adam Groom, owns a small stake in the company, which they call HOME. They are planning to open a new resort and anyone who is anyone is invited to attend via an exclusive invitation. The staff includes Annie, Nikki, and Jess. When the high profile guests are summoned to a dinner by Ned, they are told of a proposal - which is more of an ultimatum. When bodies start turning up, the party of the year has turned into the murder of the decade! This is a tale of excess, secrets, blackmail, and revenge. I thought the story was slow to start, but then picked up. Once you understood what the guests and the staff were hiding, the story became much more interesting. No one is likeable!
Jayme
Scenic Science of the National Parks: An Explorer's Guide to Wildlife, Geology, and Botany by Emily Hoff and Maygen Keller
I'm a National Park geek and love reading books centered around the parks. Most books are tour guides through the parks with advice on where to stay, when to go, etc. - this is not that book. This book gives you a little overview on the park, but really focuses on the interesting and oddball science specific to that park. The writing is very readable (the authors have a great sense of humor) and the illustrations are beautiful. I will definitely have this book in the car when we head to Shenandoah in April.
Marguerite
The Personal Librarian by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray
I also purchased AN ILLUMINATED LIFE: BELLE DA COSTA GREEN'S GREENE's JOURNEY FROM PREJUDICE TO PRIVILEGE. I liked seeing the photos. I do this all the time with books based on real characters. It helps with the fiction book which can be confusing.
Thomas
Abandoned in Death by J. D. Robb
A really great read. All the Death series books are good.
Dawn
Go Tell the Bees That I am Gone by Diana Gabaldon
I am an evangelist for all things Outlander and Diana Gabaldon!
Marilyn
The Confession by John Grisham
Can you believe we are reading this great story now, so many years after publication? We are and everyone has loved it from page one! We were fascinated with the callousness of the officers as well as the court. Talk about blind eyes! Such grief for the family. And the description of solitary confinement was crushing.
Vicky
High Five by Janet Evanovich
Was looking for another book series after finishing most of Janes Patterson’s books and I found it here. Am loving the Stephanie Plum novels and all her adventures. If you like a good mystery and laughs this is the series to read.
Vicky
Hot Six by Janet Evanovich
Another great Stephanie Plum novel. I read before I go to bed and sometimes I get giggling with some of her adventures and try not to wake my husband. Can’t wait to see what happens in SEVEN UP.
Linda
The Bourbon Kings by J. R. Ward
The Bradford Bourbon Company (BBC) has been the leading producer of Kentucky bourbon for generations. William Baldwine married the last Bradford and is now head of the company. He has been having an affair with his son Lane's soon-to-be ex-wife. The eldest son Edward was rescued after being kidnapped (some say his father set it up) and wants nothing to do with BBC. Max is another son who has disappeared. Virginia (Gin) is the sole daughter who is promiscuous but only loves one man who doesn't love her, or so she thinks. That leaves Tulane (Lane) who has no job but lives off his trust money. Now with everything awry at BBC, it is up to Lane to lead the family.
Linda
The Angel's Share by J. R. Ward
Lane Baldwine is now acting head of Bradford Bourbon Company and has talked his friend Jeff Stern into being the CEO. Jeff is reviewing documents and finds that approximately $173 million is missing and taken by William Baldwine and put into his account WWB Holdings. Lane learns about his investment in a defunct diamond mine. It will take a lot of hard work and cutbacks to become solvent again but Lane does not want to lose the company. Lizzie King finds a severed finger buried in a flower garden. The finger is found to be William Baldwine’s as identified by the signet ring he is wearing. His death is now being treated as a homicide. There are many who would want to kill him but Edward is the chief suspect.
Linda
Devil’s Cut by J. R. Ward
Lane Baldwine is running Bradford Bourbon Company with help from his friend Jeff Stern, now CEO. Jeff has been meeting with various banks regarding loans taken by William Baldwine and secured by BBC. They are trying to keep the company afloat. Their master distiller shows them a new yeast he has formulated that will be a record-breaker and it could be sold to a competitor for a huge amount but Lane wants to hold off. He watches Gin’s daughter Amelia play a game on her cell and notices it was a product of one of the companies William invested in. He learns that the company has just been purchased for over $1 billion and Baldwin owns 49%. BBC is saved.
Linda
Never Too Late by Robyn Carr
After catching her husband Roger in their bed with another woman, Clare Wilson has had it. No more second chances! Then she is in a horrendous car crash and ends in the hospital for several weeks. The handsome policeman who was at the accident comes to visit and they are soon seeing each other. But Sam Jankowski is more serious than Clare is and she ends it. She renews her high school friendship with Pete Rayburn, coach at the local high school. She was engaged to Pete’s older brother who was killed in the Air Force. Pete always had a crush on Clare and tells her this time she’s not getting away.
Linda
A Stranger's Game by Colleen Coble
Torie Bergstrom comes to Jekyll Island incognito to find out what happened to her friend Lisbeth Nelson. Official cause of death was drowning after her body was found on the beach but Lisbeth was deathly afraid of the ocean. Torie knows she was murdered. Joe Abbott works part-time in hotel security and listens to her. But something more sinister is being planned for the big event on the island when representatives from the Federal Reserve along with several politicians meet for a conference. Diving apparatus is found on the beach. Several explosions have occurred offshore and Joe wonders if the explosions also have to do with the conference or with the new submarine that is making its way south to Kings Bay
Linda
Three Weeks with Lady X by Eloisa James
Thorn Dautry, bastard son of the Duke of Villiers, is courting Lady Laetitia Rainsford and has inviting her family to his country estate. The only problem is that it needs to be refurbished and he only has three weeks. Upon his stepmother’s advice, he hires Lady Xenobia India St. Clair to redo the house. He is soon attracted to her and kisses her. She returns his kisses that soon turn into something more. He has to keep reminding himself he is to marry Laetitia. When his friend Vander Brody, future Duke of Pindar, becomes interested in India, Thorn is jealous and realizes no one will marry her but him.
Linda
The Hating Games by Sally Thorne
Lucy Hutton and Joshua Templeman sit across from each other and try to outdo each other. Each works for a co-CEO of a publishing company. Complaints have been made to HR by each of them, so much so that when they stalk to the breakroom for coffee, coworkers are ready for trouble. He organizes a paintball tournament as a team building project and his protection over Lucy is duly noted by others. Lucy complains to her boss about Josh, but her boss just smiles as she knows there is attraction between them but they don’t realize it. Cute story!!
Linda
Steal by James Patterson and Howard Roughan
There was so much double-dealing going on in this book, it was very confusing. The main gist involved a Monet painting stolen from the von Oehson family by the Nazis. During the war, it ended up in Hungary. Somehow Mathias von Oehson got it back and hid it in his home. His son owed gambling debts and gave the painting to the man he owed. It ended up with mob boss Frank Brunetti. He refused to send it back to Mathias. The Hungary embassy got involved and agreed to buy it from Brunetti. The real painting was swapped for a fake. When the embassy wired the money to Brunetti, Mathias hacked into the bank and took another $5 billion. Hungary wanted it back and sent an assassin to take out Brunetti and von Oehson. Then the CIA got involved.
Deby
Beach Read by Emily Henry
Great book to read on my recent vacation! Highly recommend!
sherry
The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides
I loved this book. The ending was such a surprise!
Julia
A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles
This is the story of a Russian count who fell in disfavor with the Russian regime during the 1920s and is sentenced to spend his life inside a luxury hotel in Moscow. The life he creates and the loves and friendships he makes over the course of decades makes for quite a captivating read. I can see why it was a bestseller for such a long time.
Christine
Billy Summers by Stephen King
Billy Summers is a hitman-for-hire who is embarking on one last job before he retires. This was an excellent book. I really enjoyed it as it is not a horror story, and while there is some violence, it isn't gratuitous. It is mainly about people. Bad people, and good people, and those who are a little of both, because, really, aren't we all a little of both? It makes you think, if a good person does a bad thing to a bad person, does that make them a bad person?
Marsha
Never Say Never by Lisa Wingate
It's one of those books where you love every character and wish you could sit and have a chat with them. Donetta and her two friends, also in their seventies, head for the Texas coast to board a cruise ship. They'd never left their small hometown before and don't realize they are driving into a fierce hurricane. Cruise ship director, Kai, is headed inland in her old VW bus and ends up rescuing the three ladies and several others on her way. Interesting how the storm changes everyone's life and brings several happy endings.
Rose
Murder Under Her Skin by Stephen Spotswood
Another enjoyable Pentecost and Parker mystery. In this novel, Lillian and Will have just solved a case of arson, when they receive notice that Will's circus friend, Ruby, has been killed in VA. They head south to solve the case. They find Will's old friend, Val, knife-thrower, has been accused of the murder. As they investigate, they dig more deeply into Ruby's life in the town. They look into the other circus members and the townspeople to uncover a motive. They find out information, drugs, financial secrets, and other shady dealings. I absolutely love the wisecracking Will Parker and her employer, Lillian Pentecost. Looking forward to Book 3!
Katrina
The Golden Couple by Greer Hendricks and Sarah Pekkanen
Typically, I love their novels and I pre-ordered this one thinking it would be just as great. Unfortunately, I felt that this one was more of a drama than a thriller. I was disappointed. No great twists and turns as in their other novels.
Michelle
The Caretakers by Amanda Bestor-Siegal
Great book! Very insightful about the lives of au pairs and their relationships with their host families. Followed the lives of several different au pairs and how they were tied together. It started out a bit sad, but I like the ending! Would recommend!
Debbie
The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett
THE VANISHING HALF by Brit Bennett presents two different viewpoints concerning the thoughts of light skinned African Americans. These light skinned blacks often pass as Caucasian and must live that fib the rest of their life. This is a story of light skinned twins who flee a small town in Louisiana and begin a new life in New Orleans. Brit Bennett does a wonderful job with the dialogue, setting, and characters. Desiree returns home to Mallard, Louisiana with a child “black as tar.” Stella escapes to California as the pampered wife of a rich, white American. Luckily, Stella’s daughter has white skin and golden hair. Jude, Desiree’s daughter, begins a search for her aunt. The story dwells on secrets and the choices we make.
Debbie
The Sweet Life by Suzanne Woods Fisher
Suzanne Woods Fisher writes often of the Amish life, which this book does not explore. I had anticipated a fluff book, but as I progressed, the story encased me in memories of my own life. The book shows the love/hate relationship between mother and daughter. Ms. Fisher does a fabulous job with her list of characters, thought-provoking discussions questions, and the lovely ice cream quotations at the beginning of each chapter. The directions for the making of ice cream amazed me. I just thought all you needed was eggs, sugar, and milk; but so much else must be done. Ms. Fisher stresses that life is not easy, but we must never give up, we must find a different solution. I enjoyed the rapport between Dawn Dixon and her mother.
Debbie
Strong Poison by Dorothy L. Sayers
STRONG POISON by Dorothy L. Sayers shows a well-written mystery story. Ms. Sayers explicitly displays the steps in catching the killer. The dialogue leaves nothing implied, every action presents itself. Sometimes I feel that the detail boggles down the flow of the story. We learn about all types of poisons and how they are used. We learn of typewriters and solicitors. Lord Peter Wimsey must have a huge purse for all the people he helps. Lord Peter reminds one of Hercule Poirot, but Lord Peter has a multitude of friends to aid in his investigations, as Poirot works alone.
Debbie
The Midnight Library by Matt Haig
THE MIDNIGHT LIBRARY begins on a sad note, as Nora Seed contemplates her death. Each chapter brings Nora closer to death, but before that conclusive event, Nora visits a library where her school librarian guides her in exploring Nora’s life decisions. Nora’s librarian, Mrs. Elm, shows Nora all her choices, a little like Clarence, the angel, in “It’s a Wonderful Life” shows George Bailey what would happen without George. THE MIDNIGHT LIBRARY made me realize that every life brims with choices, and suicide should not be one of the decisions. The travel to the many life choices became tedious; that should have been reduced. Not a favorite book, but interesting ideas presented.
Rose
Time After Time by Hannah Mary McKinnon
Hayley and Rick have two children, and like in many marriages, are busy with their children and their lives and don't take time out for themselves. So, Hayley goes to visit her friend, Ellen, and talk. Hayley wonders what her life would have been like if she hadn't married Rick. The next day, Hayley wakes in bed with her old boyfriend, Chris. Shocked, she realizes that they are married! This begins a journey of Hayley revisiting all her old relationships, and other decisions that would have changed had she chosen a different path. Which relationship and family are Hayley's true destination? If you could go back and change your relationship decisions, would you? Debut novel. Having read her thriller novels, I see her growth.
Debra Hicks
The Vanishing Type: A Secret Book and Scone Society Novel by Ellery Adams
This was my first cozy mystery. I thought it was very well written. The characters kept my attention. The plot flowed with mystery throughout. It was what I call a modestly written book without foul language or rated R scenes. I want to read more Ellery Adams books as well as cozy mystery books.
Debra Hicks
The Fields by Erin Young
Seriously one of the best thrillers I have ever read! First book by Erin Young for me, hopefully there will be more. Right from the beginning the reader is captivated by the pscological suspence of events. The plot thickens. Just as you think you know who the bad guys are, you find out you're wrong by the twists and turns! In the end the reader is surprised by the reason and methods used. Awesome book. Definitely a 5-star book for me.
Debra Hicks
Willing to Die by Lisa Jackson
A great pscological thriller! Suspense starts out right away. The reader can get lost in details of the characters' lives. However, if you stick with it the plot thickens. I really like the way Lisa Jackson keeps the reader captivated in this book. Filled with psychological suspense and thrills.
Becky
Band of Sisters by Lauren Willig
Powerfully written and exhaustively researched, this lightly fictionalized account of the Smith College Relief Unit that assisted French villages decimated by Germany during WWI is an exciting tale of daring do. The Smith Unit, made up of recent graduates of Smith College, were young women mostly brought up to be wealthy, pampered society darlings. They were inspired by a visionary speech and formed a unit that soon found them living in filthy, bombed out buildings and working in dangerous, front line areas of France. Willig used the Smith College archives to find the families (and occasionally the women themselves) of the Unit. She had access to letters and diaries written by the women.
Francisca
Tooth and Claw by Jo Walton
What a fun romp of a story! It’s a typical regency (or Victorian) romance, but all the characters are dragons. I was captured from the first page and enthralled and entertained throughout.
amanda
Flying Angels by Danielle Steel
Great book, loved it.
shelly
The Beginning by Beverly Lewis
Susie Mast's life has not been an easy one. She lost her father and her brother who was close in age in a terrible accident. She is now twenty-two years old and between taking care of her mother, who is not well, and her adopted sister Britta her days are pretty full. She had been friends with Obie Yoder since they were younger and she was hoping he would want to court her.
Obie is offered a chance to learn a trade from his uncle and that will mean leaving Hickory Hollow. He seems to enjoy his life in Sugar Valley. Britta her adopted sister is very curious to know more about her parents and wants answers but Susie does not know. With her mama now living with her brother and his family in Missouri, things are becoming difficult.
Kimiko
Dark Horse by Gregg Hurwitz
Another great Orphan X. This time he is called to assist a grieving father whose daughter has been kidnapped. Will Evan help this man? Especially because he is a drug cartel leader in Texas whose daughter has been kidnapped by a rival drug cartel leader.
Anne
The Time in Between by Maria Duenas
Captivating and unforgettable historical which is extraordinary and emotional.
Maureen
The Book of Cold Cases by Simone St. James
Another chilling tale by Simone St. James. Dual time lines take the reader from The Lady Killer Murders to present day where a blogger is trying to solve the old murders. Beth is still the main suspect but seems unlikely that as a teen she killed three men. Shea is a blogger that works as a medical assistant by day and sees Beth come into her medical office. Beth agrees to talk with her about the murders at her mansion. The mansion is the perfect creepy setting with its own ghost. A perfect twisty, chilling book.
Dianne
The ABC Murders by Agatha Christie
Another classic Hercule Poirot mystery.
Patricia
Run Rose Run by James Paterson and Dolly Parton
Great story of a young woman trying to make it singing country music. But so much more than that!
jane
The Indigo Girl by Natasha Boyd
Story about a 16-year-old girl who manages her family’s plantations in South Carolina while her colonel father goes to fight a war in Antigua. During this time, she perfects growing and producing indigo to save the plantations from bankruptcy. Based on true story of Eliza Lucas Pinkney.
S
I Must Betray You by Ruta Sepetys
Ruta Sepetys' compelling young adult novel tells the story of Cristian Florescu, a seventeen-year-old in 1989 Romania under Nicolae Ceaușescu. As in Nazi Germany, citizens were recruited to spy on their families, friends, and neighbors leaving him unable to trust anybody. After befriending the son of his mother's American employer, Cristian finds himself forced to spy on the family just as the Iron Curtain began to fall and the citizens of Romania begin challenging the government.
Rose
The Last Confessions of Sylvia P. by Lee Kravetz
I haven't read Sylvia Plath's works, but I know she wrote THE BELL JAR and killed herself. This novel imagines a story of a jealous contemporary of Plath, known as Boston Rhodes. Ms. Rhodes pretends to be Sylvia's friend so she can gain insight into Sylvia's writings. They compete with each other in a workshop and in getting published. Boston can't tolerate Sylvia's success. Sylvia's psychiatrist, Dr. Ruth Barnhouse, attempts different treatments with Sylvia to help her return to writing. Estee, curator of rare works at small auction house, is brought three notebooks which are a handwritten manuscript of THE BELL JAR. She sets up an auction for the notebooks, which were stolen. Who stole them and why? Interesting mystery.
Rose
The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman
What do you get when you put several elderly people together in a community and throw in a murder or two? The Thursday Murder Club! This is a very complex story detailing the personalities of these elderly friends, their clever sleuthing, the police they inform, and the crimes committed by unlikely culprits. The group aims to solve a murder of a man who was involved with the building of their retirement home. Then another death, and the club gets involved with the police investigation. There are a lot of characters in this book, so you may want to have a pen and paper handy to keep track of everyone. The story wraps up nicely, with the stories intertwining. I think this would make a nice beginning to a series. Second time reading this!
Barbara
Wish You Were Here by Jodi Picoult
Timely dealing with Covid issues. Delightful descriptions of travel and life in the Galapagos. Loved the twists and turns and the reminders to live in the moment.
Carol
The Seamstress of New Orleans by Diane C. McPhail
Story took off in the first few pages. Was interesting cover to cover.
Jeanne
The Tobacco Wives by Adele Myers
This is a story about the tobacco culture of North Carolina in the early 1940s. The main character is a 15-year-old who learns a horrible truth about the effects of smoking and what she does with that knowledge. The story is both plot-driven and character-driven. I loved how the author wraps up the story in an epilogue that tells the outcome of the story 30-40 years later.
Nina
The Good Daughter by Karin Slaughter
This novel is filled with lots of twists and turns. It kept me very involved. It revolves around a crime that nearly destroys a family.
Eileen
The Paris Apartment by Lucy Foley
I liked the storyline of this novel. However, I didn't like the way the novel was structured. Since each character's chapters were in first person point of view, I found myself getting confused at the beginnings of each chapter. I will say that each chapter was clearly titled with the character's name, but when I finished a chapter in Jess's voice and then started the next chapter and it was in Nick's voice, the transition from Jess's "I" to Nick's "I" was not smooth, for me. The plot was good and keeps the reader guessing, but I prefer a novel where I don't have difficulty transitioning from chapter to chapter.
Claudia
The Maid by Nita Prose
Liked that the narrator was the maid and the surprise at the end.
Margaret
The Last House on the Street by Diane Chamberlain
You will read about prejudice, racism, the Civil Rights Movement and the KKK. There are two storylines with two points of view, one in 1965 with Ellie and one in 2010 with Kayla. We soon know they will become intertwined because of a decades-long, unsolved murder. Even though the two women are a generation apart they are united by tragedy. This novel is educational, informative, intense and emotional. Author does a great job of keeping the story interesting while switching timelines nearly every other chapter. Author's note tells of her research for this novel and that much of it is true.
Nettie
The Second Mrs. Astor by Shana Abe
Madeline Force and John Jacob Astor fall in love. The novel details their courtship and takes us on a wonderful trip to Egypt where they honeymoon. Then comes the tragedy of the Titanic. The chapters alternate between their love story and letters written by Madeline to their baby son. Was Madeline really in love or just determined? Would she be accepted into High Society because of her youth and social standing? These are questions that will be answered as you read the very good book. I enjoyed it and would recommend it to friends.
Helen
The Paris Apartment by Lucy Foley
A clever thriller that you will not be able to put down! A wonderful setting in the streets of Paris. Lucy Foley never disappoints!
Deborah
The Lincoln Highway by Amor Towles
Just can’t really care about a road trip novel with teenage boys in the late 1950s.
Susan
The Judge's List by John Grisham
Lacy is asked by a stranger to help prosecute a sitting judge she is convinced committed murder.
A cat and mouse trail leaves the reader to the mind of the judge with an ending that didn't really resonate with me.
Judy
The Winter Guest by Pam Jenoff
This story takes place in Poland during WWII. Twin girls are the support of their two sisters and a brother. Their father is dead and their mother is in the hospital. The one girl, Helena, goes to see her mother every week and on one of the trips finds a man hurt in the forest. She helps him get to a deserted chapel that is in pretty poor condition. No roof, open to the weather. She helps set his broken leg and gets wood for a little stove that is there. He is an American paratrooper and the plane had crashed. Helena takes care of him until he is better, but does not tell her twin or her other siblings. The German soldiers are rounding up Jews and Helena has just found out that her mother died and she was a Jew also, a secret.
Jo Ann
Run Rose Run by James Patterson and Dolly Parton
Great storyline. Suspense is great.
Kim
Stalking Jack the Ripper by Kerri Maniscalco
The details behind the elusive Jack the Ripper are gruesome. Eluding capture and terrorizing London’s dark, foggy streets, the murderer’s story has provided many authors with a great backdrop for their own thrillers. The author references historical points of reference that helped to embellish this haunting story. It’s a great length and narrated by the fearless heroine, Audrey Rose. The story keeps the reader guessing.
Rose
The Next Ship Home by Heather Webb
In 1902, much of the immigration to the U.S. was handled via Ellis Island. Ship after ship came from Europe, with many of the immigrants leaving to find work and a better life in America. Sadly, many arrived sick after the arduous trip. In this novel, Francesca and her sister, Marie, escape an abusive father in Sicily and come to America. However, they have no relatives here, and no male to vouch for them. Luckily, Francesca met a kind man, Marshall Lancaster, on the ship. They arrive at Ellis Island, meet Alma who has been hired to help with immigration. Due to her fluency with languages, she helps many immigrants navigate the process. She is kind to Francesca and Maria, and befriends Francesca. Good story about immigration in 1902.
Tessa
What We Keep by Elizabeth Berg
Do we ever really know our parents? Would we still love them if we did? Could we forgive them their mistakes? Berg writes family relationships so very well. All the ways in which we rely on and trust one another, show our love and loyalty, and hurt or betray one another. There are always two (or more) sides to any story, and it takes a mature person to wait to pass judgment until all parts are known. My heart broke for all the family members, and my loyalties shifted as I learned more.
Donna
The Last of the Moon Girls by Barbara Davis
Lizzy Moon is the 9th generation of women with special gifts known as the Moon Girls. Her grandmother dies and leaves her the Moon Girl Farm. She is a successful in her job in NYC and travels to the farm to put it up for sale and to clear her grandmother’s name as she had been accused of the murder of two girls 8 years ago. Lizzy is not welcome and is terrorized by the locals since she is a Moon Girl. This novel is about tradition, legacy, family, regrets, murder, magic, forgiveness and love.
Donna
Memory Wall by Anthony Doerr
This is an interesting, touching and unique novel composed of 5 short stories and a novella. Three of the stories stand out for me: "Tall Man in the Yard", "Village 113" and "Afterworld". One statement that I’ll long remember is, “Without memory we are nothing”.
Donna
Pretty Ugly Lies by Pamela Crane
Orleander Way is an upscale neighborhood where the husbands, wives, children and their lives all appear to be perfect until you go behind their closed doors. This is the story of four women who don’t really know each other well. Each woman is feeling as though she is unappreciated by her self-absorbed husband, ungrateful children, constant demands and responsibilities. They each have secrets, are nearly broken and spiraling towards their breaking point. The choices range from telling their secrets and hoping for forgiveness to the extreme of doing something drastic. This story of motherhood, family and depression is thought-provoking.
Donna
The Magnolia Palace by Fiona Davis
This novel takes place in two time periods that are about 50 years apart. The Magnolia Palace is the home of the Frick family in NYC in the early 1900s. Helen Frick is one of the main characters in this novel. Lillian was once a famous and sought after model for artwork who’s career is fading. She becomes the personal secretary for Helen. Lillian disappears when she is suspected to have murdered Helen’s father and stolen a treasured cameo. Fifty years later, the palace becomes a museum as it is filled with masterpieces. Veronica, a model that is accidentally locked in the museum during a photo shoot, is discovered by Helen who is still living in the museum and old history is resolved. Fiona is a marvelous writer of historical fiction.
Donna
No One Can Hear Your Scream by A. B. Whelan
Jennifer, a divorced mother of three, is a popular influencer on social media. She has a boyfriend that plans a family trip in a remote area in the mountains where there is no running water or phone/cell service. An obsessed, sociopathic fan turns this vacation into a nightmare that you won’t forget. This novel has sections that cause you to turn the pages while your heart is racing.
Donna
Hannah’s Diary by Rebecca Forster
Hannah is found near death in the Nevada desert with a backpack containing her diary. The diary contains very limited clues to who she is and where she is from. This book is an in-between novella of books 1 and 2 of a 7 book series. It is a cliff-hanger and I definitely want to read more.
Donna
The Other Family by Wendy Corsi Staub
Nora and her family have temporarily moved from California to Brooklyn, NY, due of her husband's job. She found a brownstone that she claims is perfect. While talking to neighbors, the family learns that the apartment has been unoccupied for 25 years because a family of three had been murdered in their beds. Strange things begin to happen and Nora seems to know more than she is letting on. This is a unique domestic psychological drama that keeps you involved.
Donna
After the Romanovs: Russian Exiles in Paris from the Belle Époque through the Revolution and War by Helen Rappaport
My knowledge of this time period was limited to the movies I had seen. The author did extensive research and the information was overwhelming. The elite society and artists loved visiting Paris prior to the Revolution. When the Romanovs became targets of the Bolshevik Revolution, about 50,000 Russians mostly fled to Paris with only the clothes on their back. They were not skilled laborers and had trouble finding work to support themselves. They chose not to assimilate as they planned to return to Russian when it was safe. This book tells some of their stories.
Donna
The Number of Man by J. T. Ellison
Michael was used to being the new kid when attending different schools and was very shy. Caitlyn was the bully at his current school. Twenty years later, Caitlyn is an up-and-coming small town news broadcaster when she and Michael connect and become romantically involved. A stalker has been following Caitlyn for some time and she is determined to end the stalking.
Carol
The Man Who Died Twice (Thursday Murder Club #2 ) by Richard Osman
Fantastic second in series, Thursday Murder Club. More character development, kept the killer a secret for the entire book.
Michelle
Laughing through the Ugly Cry and Finding Unstoppable Joy by Dawn Barton
Great book! Dawn shared her experiences and all the different painful things that have happened in her life, and how she was able to find joy amidst the pain. Funny, relatable, easy read!
Marilyn
Mrs. Everthing by Jennifer Weiner
Sisters are making their way in life as many things in America change. Are we the ones who change, or is it all that surrounds us? This book is set in the Detroit area.
