This contest period's winners were Connie E., Dona M. and Lynn B., who each received a copy of THE FAMILY REMAINS by Lisa Jewell and PROPERTIES OF THIRST by Marianne Wiggins.
Amy
Evidence of the Affair by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Taylor Jenkins Reid is a writing master. This short story of hers is no exception. I really liked how it was written in letter form, and the audiobook made it ever better!
Elizabeth
The Magic of Lemon Drop Pie by Rachel Linden
LOVED, LOVED, LOVED this sweet read. THE MAGIC OF LEMON DROP PIE is a sweet, heartwarming, uplifting read with a character you will fall in love with. A truly enjoyable read that gives some great advice but also a few heartaches.
Wendy
The Storied Life of A. J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin
My entire book club agreed - we loved this book! It’s a love story about all things literary - books, writers, readers, bookstores and clubs. We loved all of the characters, enjoyed following their stories as each of them evolved. A full, rich story if a storied life.
Anna
Eternal by Lisa Scottoline
I love historical fiction, especially when I learn so many new things. This is the first WWII story that I read that takes place in Rome and focuses on the rise of Mussolini and Fascism in Italy and the invasion by the Nazis. I loved how the story was told through the experiences of the three main characters and their families. It was also a story about the coming-of-age by the three young people and their love for each other. The relationships with their families was not always easy and without turmoil but they showed respect and love even when they disagreed. The author's love for Italy and its culture is evident. I would recommend ETERNAL to anyone who loves historical fiction and/or anyone who loves Italy and its culture, food, etc.
Saundra
GodPretty in the Tobacco Field by Kim Michele Richardson
This is the story of a teenage girl, living on a tobacco farm in Kentucky. When her parents died, she came to live with her grumpy uncle. He is very strict, and she works the fields daily. She falls in love but it can never happen. Lots of secrets in this book. It wasn't my favorite Kim Michele Richardson book, but it was good.
Clare
Arcadia by Lauren Groff
ARCADIA narrates the story of the beginnings of a utopic community in NY state in 1970s and its eventual and predictable demise from the perspective of a young boy born as the community is established and who has never lived nor known any other world. How will this boy, now a teenager, adapt to the outside world and what will happen to he and the other kids born into the commune? The effects of the commune are long-lasting and divided along the line of whether the child was loved and claimed by his/her parents during the commune's hey days or whether the parents left the child to belong to all at the commune, all and no-one. Loss and sadness underwrite each episode as it is happening. How much human connection is ever possible?
Mary Ann
The Bodyguard by Katherine Center
This is the perfect chic lit beach read.
Susan
The It Girl by Ruth Ware
Interesting writing method - kept your attention throughout.
Cheryl
Violeta by Isabel Allende
Violeta tells her life story spanning from 1920 to 2020. She explains her many loves and the political climate in Chile that affects her life. I'm not a fan of South American history but I love Isabel Allende and her characters.
Dona
The Nature of Fragile Things by Susan Meissner
A wonderful historical novel set during the time of the San Francisco earthquake 1905-1906 and how a man was able to use multiple identities to take advantage of women and his own child to steal their fortunes. One woman fights back to keep his child.
Cynthia
The Hotel Nantucket by Elin Hilderbrand
I was sad when this one was over!! From ruins to fabulous the hotel makes a spectacular come back thanks to an unknown investor, the ghost and the mystery critic that might visit and rate them. The characters are fun and all have a back story that holds your interest. I could envision the characters so well!
Connie
Big Lies in a Small Town by Diane Chamberlain
Really enjoyed the struggle that Anna had in the late 30s creating a huge mural in the post office to represent the small town that she was assigned. Lots of personalities around. Then all goes awry. We also follow the struggles on Morgan in present time who has been given the chance to get out of prison for something she did not do to "fix" the mural that Anna never finished, but she is not trained in restoration and has a deadline to deal with.
MH
Broken Harbor by Tara French
When I discovered this book in a used book store and realized I hadn’t read it, I started it immediately. Though very graphic in parts and full of Irish slang, the book was full of twists and turns, as her books usually are. The main detective, who has a dysfunctional family, works with a rookie to solve the murder of a family living in a house with holes in the walls and a huge trap in the attic.
Nancy
Horse by Geraldine Brooks
Well written and just a terrific story. It’s so interesting to learn about horse racing in the Civil War era and the impact of racism around the sport. Geraldine Brooks has hit another home run!
Jayme
The Book of Cold Cases by Simone St. James
This was a solid 3-star read for me. There was enough spooky stuff, interesting characters engaging, and a cold case murder to keep me reading. I did figure it out mid-way, but thought it would end differently. I enjoy St. James's writing and this book did not disappoint.
Jayme
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
I really enjoyed this book. It is so much more than the MPG listings of romance or chic-lit though. In fact, I wouldn't even label it as such and think that the cover design and "laugh-out-loud funny" blurb is misleading and frankly wrong. There are some heavy topics in this book: rape, suicide, and sexism. Set in the 1950s and 1960s this book looks at the treatment of women specifically a brilliant female chemist in a male-dominated field. This is an intense feminist manifesto layered with quirky characters, a love story, and a dog that understands 987 English words. The author is able to pull it off by making the story a little over-the-top and then zinging the reader with little nuggets of wisdom. Worth the read.
Francisca
Ask Again, Yes by Mary Beth Keane
This is the kind of character-driven literary fiction that I absolutely love. Keane focuses this decades-long story on two families living in a suburb of New York City. There is so much going on here. Family expectations. Alcoholism. Denial. Mental Illness. Betrayal. Forgiveness. Love. By the end of the novel I felt that I really knew these people. I cheered for them. Was dismayed by them. Worried about them. Forgave them.
Rosa
These Impossible Things by Salma El-Wardany
When I learned that this book had been chosen to be a Read With Jenna Book Club Pick, I knew that it would be thought-provoking and interesting. I was not disappointed. This is about three young Muslim women who are finding their way through life after university. There are so many pressures - from faith, family, and work, and those they inflict on themselves. It's daunting but they have one another to lean on, until they having a falling-out that leaves a divide among them. The plot lines are compelling and at times the description of these women's thoughts and feelings is vulgar and unsettling. But this is modern life. Highly recommend.
Marilyn
The Forest of Vanishing Stars by Kristin Harmel
Truly a story of survival and bravery on the part of a young girl taken from her family and raised in the forest. Her desire to help others, especially the Jewish settlements, depicted what a heroine she became to those in need. Our book club had previously read THE BOOK OF LOST NAMES and so enjoyed the writing of Ms. Harmel. Hope she continues on this path - we loved this book and it was great for group discussion!
Alyson
By Her Own Design by Piper Huguley
A dress designer to the high society overcomes a fiery disaster and has church ladies and family make dresses for a wedding quickly. It is an engaging read.
Lana
What Happened to the Bennetts by Lisa Scottoline
I was so into this book at the first chapter! It was a thrilling, heart pumping book. I could not put it down!
Janice
Fellowship Point by Alice Elliot Dark
A beautifully-written story. I neglected chores to read it, but isn't that always the way with a great book!
Sharon
Switchboard Soldiers by Jennifer Chaiverini
Great book that tells the story of the much-overlooked, but absolutely essential women who "manned" the switchboards in Europe from Paris to the front-lines with General Pershing and helped to win WWI. New herstory for me and SO well written!
Susan
The Many Daughters of Afong Moy by Jamie Ford
The multiple characters and shifting timeline frustrated me as the characters were engaging and I wanted to stay with each of them longer. The epigenesis theory caused the time shifts, which was well developed, but the novel as a whole was unnecessarily fragmented.
Cynthia
Chasing Fireflies by Charles Martin
This story will touch your heart in so many ways as it draws you into a compelling story filled with intrigue, humor, wisdom, and compassion. Martin is an amazing storyteller who weaves an engaging tale with beautiful language and richly-developed characters.
Laurie
Mercury Pictures Presents by Anthony Marra
I am a dedicated fan of historical fiction, traditionally from the World War II era, so MERCURY PICTURES PRESENTS is a different opportunity to discover a new place and time. I laughed, sighed, and cried with main character, Maria Lagana, as she reinvented herself to survive. Talented author, Anthony Marra “transported me” from Mussolini’s Italy to 1949s Los Angeles in an outstanding novel. Bravo!
Lynn
Murder in the Park by Jeanne M. Dams
Good start for a new series set in the Midwest.
Rochelle
The It Girl by Ruth Ware
I’ve read all of Ruth Ware’s books and have enjoyed them. This, however, I believe is her best. Good character development as well as good twists.
Kathy
Rules of Civility by Amor Towles
This is his first book and I enjoyed it, although nothing can compare to A GENTLEMAN IN MOSCOW as that is one of my all time favorite books.
April
The Time in Between by Maria Duenas
Captivating and memorable historical which touches your heart.
Pamela
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
Loved the characters and the dog Six Thirty, interesting storyline and a sort of surprise ending.
Linda
Summer on the Island by Brenda Novak
I was impatient with some of the characters' flaws until I understood that the author wanted her readers to explore moral dilemmas and not be so judgmental. A quintessential beach read.
Donna
The Last to Vanish by Megan Miranda
Abby is the manager of the inn in Cutter's Pass, a mountain town full of tourists. Several of their guests have vanished in the past several years and when a man comes to investigate why his brother died months ago, Abby gets involved. Enjoyable read.
Jean
Skin Tight by Carl Hiaasen
Full of quirky characters, lots of murders happening in creative ways, a little romance, fishing, drinking, and boating, you'll know you've taken a trip to Florida with Carl Hiassen when you read SKIN TIGHT. The story, while complex, moves right along. No one wins completely, but many lose it all. There is some humor, as he pokes fun at many institutions, although I never laughed out loud. If sex scenes and foul language offend you, read elsewhere.
Nancy
Waltz in Swing Time by Jill Caugherty
A stunning debut novel! I was impressed how the author delivered a flawless tale between the Great Depression era to 2006. I was completely captivated; anxious to read what transpired next. The feelings of sadness blurred the pages from my tears. But, hopefulness cleared the pages as the story unfolded. I loved that the story was based partly from the author's grandmother's letters and stories. I am so awed in her research. I was touched by this vivid and moving story.
Sherri
Anansi Boys by Neil Gaiman
Fabulous!
Susan
The Ones We Choose by Julie Clark
Paige is a scientist studying what your DNA tells about you. She conceived her son through a sperm donor and now her 8-year-old son Miles is starting to ask her who his father is. As you get deeper and deeper in the book you find that is not the only problems Paige has. This debut novel is a page-turner in my opinion.
Beth
All the Dirty Secrets by Aggie Blum Thompson
ALL THE DIRTY SECRETS is a convoluted mystery, meaning it's more than just a mystery; it's mystery upon mystery upon mystery, and that's the best kind of mystery. So I appreciated it. But it wasn't for me. Too much of it is about teenagers. It would have been for me back when I was in high school. It would have been a four-star book then. Although this is one novel, it is made up of more than one story/mystery. Mainly, there are three, two taking place during beach week in 1994, one during present-day beach week. All three are about teenagers who drowned or are assumed to have drowned. There's also another mystery of a man who was a track coach in 1994 at the teenagers' private school and is now the head of the school.
Sean
The Last Green Valley by Mark T. Sullivan
This should be labeled Christian fiction. I just couldn't deal with sanctimonious praying about a couple's survival while millions of Jews were being exterminated. Sorry, not for me.
Marilyn
Wish You Were Here by Jodi Picoult
A description of a woman of today, career, impending marriage, vacation plans ready, but Covid hits and everything changes. She finds herself in an unimaginable predicament which is life changing. Jodi's comments, titled Author's Notes, is equally compelling as she describers her own personal experience during the pandemic.
Maryanne
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
A fun book to read. Loved the character development.
Kimberley
Love Lettering by Kate Clayborn
This lovely novel was gift from the author, initially the reader is drawn into the world of hand-lettering, crafting, scrapbooking and specialized planner design. Then we connect with Meg and Reid and the love story begins. Reid is a mathematician and Meg is the artist. Their journey takes an unexpected turn as it winds through New York City neighborhoods and Wall Street. We meet a lovely cast of characters. It’s a great length and the reader hopes there is a second book to follow this amazing story.
Debra A.
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
Best book I have read all year by far!! Don’t let the title scare you.
Katrina
Falling by T. J. Newman
Not my kind of thriller but good writing nonetheless. I would recommend this book to people who like this type of thriller since I am more into psychological thrillers. The back cover made it seem like it would be more gory than what it actually was. The description of the book and reviews were misleading.
Becky
The Paris Showroom by Juliet Blackwell
Betrayal, survival, hope, triumph. A satellite work camp within a Paris department store. WWII historical fiction.
Elizabeth
Find Me by Alafair Burke
Lots of twists.
Liz
Fencing With the King by Diana Abu-Jaber
This book contained too many political references and characters for my taste. I would have liked to have had a glossary of terms to make the story easier to understand. I feel the author would have done better with fewer subplots. There was the fencing competition with the king, the fate of Gabriel’s Hamdam’s sword, Gabriel’s long lost brother, Gabriel’s daughter Amani getting lost in the desert and eventually starting a new life, and Gabriel’s relationship with his brother Hafez. For my taste, less is better.
Lonnie
The Final Cut by Catherine Coulter and J. T. Ellison
First title in the series, A Brit in the FBI. I loved it. Great characters and a plot with lots of surprises.
Jill
The Little Teashop on Main by Jodi Thomas
I enjoyed this story of three friends, Shannon, Zoe and Emily, from age 5 to adulthood and the people who surround them in a small town. Each of the girls has challenges -- Shannon's mother left her when she was little, Zoe struggles to find her life's path after college, and Emily deals with the challenge of mental illness. It's schmaltzy and a somewhat light read about how their friendships survive and flourish over time. As someone who's experienced depression, I felt that the author's treatment of Emily's struggles was somewhat superficial. But the girls and two of their parents find love and cope with a devastating situation, which was also treated superficially and felt rushed near the end of the book.
Michelle
The Storyteller by John Grohl
Another unbelievable memoir! I could not get enough and flew through the audio in just days! I didn't know that much about Dave Grohl but now feel like I know him like a familiar, comfortable coat. A storyteller he is for sure, along with one of the greatest musicians of our time. Hearing his own voice tell his story, from his childhood picking up the drum sticks, all the way through his experience with the band Scream, through his harrowing short years with Nirvana, to the Foo Fighters and his journey through fatherhood, was mesmerizing. He has a special soul that comes through in his stories. I adore him, as dorky as that sounds, and am now a Foo Fighter Fighters fan for life!
Jeanne
Jackie & Me by Louis Bayard
JACKIE & ME by Louis Bayard is a well written, enchanting that was the heartwarming and heartbreaking story of Jackie Kennedy Onassis and his long-standing friendship with her. The author is a master of storytelling and this book is no exception as he reflects on Jackie over the years starting when she begins her job at Vogue and continues his journey with his friendship with her as she begins her relationship with a young Jack Kennedy. The story begins many years later when he see Jackie rounding a street corner in New York and takes him back in time. It was like I was transported to the magical, exciting days of Camelot and it was delightful and intriguing to read.
Helen
The Hotel Nantucket by Elin Hilderbrand
A delightful summer book from the queen of beach reads. A list of intriguing characters including a ghost!
Ann Marie
The Latecomer by Jean Hanff Korelitz
We enjoyed this book. What family dysfunction!
Dianne
A Woman of Intelligence by Karin Tanabe
From her job as a translator at the nascent United Nations to the mother of two small children, Katharina finds herself lost. Enter the FBI with an offer of employment. A past lover is involved with the Communist Party. She needs to get close to him to expose his connections. Is this the solution to the malaise she is feeling? Will it ruin or save her marriage?
Becky
The Blame Game by Sandie Jones
Dark past, abandonment, indispensable. She is a psychotherapist specializing in domestic abuse cases. She feels her job is “more than a j job”. He feels she tends to cross the line.
Julie
When All Is Said by Anne Griffin
This is a very touching book about a old man reflecting on his life and the people in it; and how things were not often as they seemed at the time.
Becky
The Second Husband by Kate White
Murder, lies, brooding. Emma is remarried 18 months after her first husband is murdered. Now police are reopening the cold case.
Claire
Riwenne and the Mechanical Beasts by Kristen S. Walker
This was a colorful romp of an adventure from beginning to end. I felt distracted from the serious tone it was going for. In a world powered by the magical gifts of various gods, suddenly mechanical creatures start appearing, drawing powers from consuming the life force of the empire's citizens instead. It stars a diverse cast of characters (a young priestess with a heart of gold, an exorcist who thinks she knows it all, a temple guard who just wants to be a baker, and a shy engineer with a love for pop music) teaming up to uncover and destroy the plot behind the mechanical monsters.
Sonia
Honestly, We Meant Well by Grant Ginder
I thoroughly enjoyed this book about a family on vacation in Greece. Just don't pay attention to the cover copy and blurbs.
Debbie
The Many Daughters of Afong Moy by Jamie Ford
Well written. Excellent characters build.
Barbara
Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt
A heartwarming "quest" story. A young man searches for his father, and answers. A senior woman, still seeking answers about the disappearance of her son, copes with her grief. And, with a unique twist, a giant Pacific octopus makes wry observations about the quirks of humans, both their actions and their manner of speech. All three storylines eventually come together for a satisfying and uplifting conclusion. Requires a smidgen of that ol' suspension of disbelief. Terrific read of a debut novel!
Kim
Good Company by Cynthia D’Aprix Sweeney
This novel shared the ups and downs of long friendships and marriage. The reader meets Flora the voice over actress, Julian the cheating husband, Ruby the daughter, Margot the beautiful starlit and her doctor husband. This circle has its world upturned by lies and cheating, testing the lifelong friendships. The story is predictable and light.
Rose
The Lioness by Chris Bohjalian
Katie Bristow, newlywed, gathers family and friends to accompany her on her safari honeymoon. While on safari, the group is ambushed. The group is kidnapped, but why? As the characters tell their stories, their pasts are revealed. Do we need to atone for the sins of our fathers? What is a life worth? Chris Bohjalian weaves a frightening and gory tale of world politics, always a great story.
Rose
Shadow Hill by Thomas Kies
Geneva Chase is now freelancing for Lodestar Analytics. She has been tasked to investigate the deaths of Morris and Julia Cutter, retired CEO of Continental Petroleum and Gas and his wife. The police said it was a murder/suicide but Eric Cutter, son of the couple, disagrees. As Genie investigates, CP&G execs encourage/threaten her to finish the investigation quickly. The reason - a climate control hearing in DC that could harm their business. As Genie finds, the wealthy oil industry will do everything to protect its interest. Always fun reads, with a nod to escalating climate crisis. Looking forward to Book 5!
Rose
Murder at Melrose Court by Karen Baugh Menuhin
This is a mystery set at an estate, Melrose Court, in 1920. When a deadman is found in May on Heathcliff Lennox's front porch with no ID, Lennox wonders why he was there. Later, at the Christmas celebration at his uncle's home, Melrose Court, Lennox is introduced to the uncle's fiancée, Sophia, thought to be Russian royalty, and her niece Natasha, who escaped during the revolution. When there is another murder, Lennox is accused. He sets out to discover the real murderer. Cute story with upper-crust characters reminiscent of old money, but struggling to stay afloat. Also somewhat stuffy, but funny.
Rose
The Lincoln Highway by Amor Towles
Emmett is released from Salina reform school. His precocious younger brother, Billy, is anxiously awaiting Emmett's return. With nothing to keep them in Nebraska, the brothers plan to head to California for a new start. Billy wants to drive the Lincoln Highway and search for their mother who left them years earlier. However, their plans are derailed when some friends from Salina escape and decide to accompany the brothers. Duchess wants to make amends and Woolly wants to get his trust fund. The four travel to NY and many adventure and experiences await. This is an interesting story and adventure. I loved the character of Billy! Towles' prose is lyrical.
Rose
A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith
I have finally decided to read this classic. Although I have seen the movie, I had not previously read the novel. Coming-of-age story in the 1910s, Francie Nolan and her family live in a tenement building in Brooklyn. Francie adores her father, but he is a drunk. Her mother works hard, but with two young children, they live very poorly. Francie loves school, especially English, but realities of life uproot her dreams. Katie, Francie's mom, and Katie's sisters try to keep the family afloat and to teach Francie about love, life, successes, and disappointments. Both heartbreaking and hopeful, I am glad I finally read the novel.
Rose
Spirit Run by Noe Alvarez
Young college man decides to leave college and find some answers to his ancestry on a 6,000 mile marathon across North America. He needs to face harsh conditions and personalities. Returning to Washington State, he decides what to do with his life. Part memoir, part coming-of-age in his 20s, this was a book about discovering our heritage and facing grim realities.
Rose
Ready or Not by Alex Lake
This was a super quick read. The story held my interest so well that I finished it in one setting.
Alice and Tom Sark have recently had a daughter, Jo, who doesn't sleep at night. This is causing sleepless nights for Tom, an engineer, and Alice, a journalist. Meanwhile, Alice gets the story of her career, about a serial killer, who she names The Crucifix Killer. The story also has flashbacks to when Alice graduated from Uni and traveled through Europe meeting new friends. Tom also recounts stories of he brother, Roland, a drug addict. As the killer continues their spree, Tom and Alice begin to argue. Alice believes Tom is rattled by Jo; Tom fears for Alice's safety. All comes to a head when they head to the lake to escape. A bit unreal.
Rose
The Golden Couple by Greer Hendricks and Sarah Pekkanen
Matthew and Marissa Bishop are the golden couple, until Marissa cheats on Matthew. They go to a therapist, Avery, to help them. However, strange things keep happening and Avery keeps tabs on them to discover what they are hiding. Matthew and Marissa's friendship began years ago when Matthew's family bought a summer house in a small Eastern Shore town where Marissa lived. Matthew, Marissa, Skip, Tina, and other locals would get together for bonfires on the beach. Then Tina died and everything changed. There is a lot of misdirection happening, along with unreliable characters hiding things. I think you will be surprised by this well-written thriller!
Rose
The Prisoner by B. A. Paris
Amelie Lamont has had a tough life. Her mother died in childbirth, along with Amelie's baby brother. Later, Amelie's Papa dies of cancer. Distraught, Amelie heads to London to try to find work and save money for college. She meets Carolyn, who offers Amelie a job and friendship. Carolyn's friends then introduce Amelie to wealthy Ned Hawthorne. She is then given an opportunity to earn money to attend college, and she offers a proposition of her own. When Ned and Amelie are kidnapped, Amelie believes it is payback for the death of a woman in his employ. But, there is much more to the abduction than she expected. Her captors don't speak to her, and keep her in the dark. The concept was interesting, but I felt it went on too long.
Rose
Finlay Donovan Jumps the Gun by Elle Cosimano
Book 3 in the series is just as madcap as books 1 and 2. Vero and Finlay are trying to discover who "EasyClean" is and they are given an ultimatum by Feliks, a Russian mob boss. Vero and Finlay continue to look for EasyClean while trying not to let Nick, the "hot cop" know what is happening. No cop is above suspicion. I love Finlay and all her escapades. They are more outlandish in each book, but always fun! Looking forward to the next adventure!
Carla
The People We Keep by Allison Larkin
Compelling plot, believable characters, coming-of-age novel that constantly makes the reader think " What would I do in her (the protagonist's) position?" In these days in which "White" is necessarily equated with "privilege", this novel shows that poverty and strife are not limited to people of color. Well-written, it rises above the pulp that passes for "chick lit" these days. Well worth reading.
Carla
My Sunshine Away by M. O. Walsh
Terrific coming-of-age novel set in the USA. The young narrator (and his older self who narrates some chapters) is touching, decent, and easy to identify with: he reminds us all of our formative years and the many things we saw, but did not fully comprehend. This is literary writing (strong sentences, adult vocabulary---not vulgar, just not lowest-common-denominator or cheesy), but easily accessed by all readers (not dense, highbrow, and over our heads). The reader sees so much more than the innocent protagonist, who tries to solve a mystery and understand the community in which he lives. Highly recommended!
Carla
The Long Weekend by Gilly Macmillan
Sorry, I know you are "always positive", but I have nothing good to say about this novel other than I liked the cover design. The plot is derivative: stolen from Agatha Christie's AND THEN THERE WERE NONE and from the great old B&W movie A LETTER TO THREE WIVES. The characters were selfish, self-centered, and completely unlikable: barely a handful of pages in, I was rooting for one of them in particular to be murdered. After a few more chapters, I was hoping for an apocalyptic disaster that would rid the world of all of them. The plot was slow and tedious. I finished the book, hoping it would get better. It did not.
Carla
Akin by Emma Donoghue
Disappointing; I had higher expectations of Ms. Donoghue, having enjoyed a number of her other books (SLAMMERKIN, RAMMERKIN, ROOM). WWII, the Holocaust, and coming-of-age stories are among my favorite genres, so I was primed to like this book. The premise is one we've seen many times before: single person "inherits" a child from a dead/distant relative---many movies and books have centered on that initial incident. And nothing wrong with using a similar starting point as other works. But I found it difficult (read: impossible) to believe that the scientist-protagonist with a PhD and years of lab training would jump to so many conclusions based on so little evidence, especially without keeping an open mind to other possibilities.
Sharon
The Many Daughters of Afong Moy by Jamie Ford
History, religion, philosophy, climate change, and epigenetics are all topics that are explored in this fictional account of the descendants of Afong Moy. I had never heard of epigenetics -- the study of how trauma affects ones descendants through genetic alterations or changes (and I probably have over simplified or even distorted the term by not truly understanding it). Ford tells the stories of Chinese women from 1836 to 2086 in this fictional exploration of trauma and its effects. Fascinating, mind-blowing.
Rose
The Turnout by Megan Abbott
This book was just creepy. It is about a ballet family and has a LOT of sexual activity (masturbation, incest, child abuse). It felt icky to read. There is also a bit of a mystery/thriller element to it when there is a death. I couldn't wait for this to be over.
Debra
The Wife Before by Shanora Williams
I really enjoyed reading THE WIFE BEFORE. The psychological thrills had me guessing until the very end. I was especially intrigued by how the character development hooked me from the beginning. I liked how there were many unexpected twists in this book. I believe this book would make an excellent movie! It definitely had me thinking, "Just one more chapter!" It was hard for me to put down. I found it to be an excellent thriller.
Rose
Everyone Knows Your Mother is a Witch by Rivka Galchen
I enjoyed this story of Frau Kepler who is accused of being a witch, and her son, Johannes Kepler, astronomer, who successfully defends her against these accusations. At times, charming and humorous. At other times, frightening that because certain things happened, people took those things to be a result of witchcraft, and wanted to persecute Frau Katharina Kepler, a widow with young children.
Sean
Behind the Red Door by Megan Collins
Megan Collins tells an anxiety-ridden tale about a woman who might have a connection to not one but two kidnappings. Her protagonist struggles with so much it's so easy to feel for her. Her life growing up is unusual to say the least. The story is heartbreaking and fraught with tension. There is a decent mystery and few red herrings that make the reader think a few different directions. The ending wasn't as impactful as I hoped but it was good. Overall, this was an intriguing book that I flew through as I wondered what was true or not.
Donna
The Greater Journey: Americans in Paris by David McCullough
Excellent read about Americans in Paris.
Rose
Fear No Evil by James Patterson
As always, Alex Cross books are a quick read. In this installment, Sampson and Cross head to the woods to track a cartel, and find two rival teams chasing them. I wasn't as invested in this one as I have been in previous stories.
Debbie
Horse by Geraldine Brooks
So many glowing comments on Geraldine Brooks HORSE. Yes, the fictional story of the racehorse Lexington presents an interesting topic, but Geraldine Brooks’ writing bordered on a haughty, prestigious language that missed the vernacular language of many of the characters. The down-to-earth language of the horse trainers and jockeys jumped too high. The discussion of horse training and breeding and care opened my eyes to a world of excessive work if done correctly. Many horse lovers do not know the story of Lexington due to this horse’s pre-Derby racing. An interesting but pompously written book.
Debbie
A Street Cat Named Bob by James Bowen
A fellow book club member lauded A STREET CAT NAMED BOB by James Bowen. Yes, this book details many traits and practices of cats, but I never encountered any tear-jerking chapters. According to James, Bob saved him from a return to drug addition and threw James into a better lifestyle. Maybe my callous heart did not see any redemption in this story. I have been owned by cats for over fifty years. My three feral cats give me a purpose for rising every day. They must be fed! I could not understand how Bob would leave the apartment and yet return after completing his “business”.
Kathy
Cloud Cuckoo Land by Anthony Doerr
This is an amazingly rich book with several interesting storylines and themes. It's the kind of book you want to read slowly because it touches on so many topics; I wanted to stop along the way and research references to mythology, history, science. It's the kind of book that deserves a second reading; I suspect the reader would discover many things that were missed in the first reading. It's truly an amazing book.
Bethany
The Extraordinary Life of Sam Hell by Robert Dugoni
This was such an enjoyable read. It's not a book I would have necessarily chosen but the reviews have been so positive. It's a book that has an interesting story and characters that one cares about.
Rose
Afterparties by Anthony Veasna So
This was not the book for me. It is a series of essays written from the perspective of a Cambodian American. It is a lot of sex and drugs and teen angst. I am sure this appeals to someone, but I am not in that camp.
Melissa
The New Neighbour by Miranda Rijks
This is one of my favorite authors who tells interesting and suspenseful stories, and this book was written the same way. There are lots of secrets to be discovered in this neighborhood. Throw in a surprise ending and you’ve got one great book!
Melissa
On a Quiet Street by Seraphina Nova Glass
Oh, how I do love a good neighborhood drama and this one has it all. There is a fatal hit and run, infidelity, domestic abuse and that’s just to name a few of their problems. Just sit back and enjoy the show!
Francisca
The Night Watchman by Louise Erdrich
Erdrich was inspired by the true story of her grandfather, who successfully fought against a U.S. senator intent on “eliminating” various Indian tribes to craft this novel, set in 1953, on the Turtle Mountain reservation in North Dakota. There are two main characters, Thomas Wazhashk and his niece Patrice Paranteau. Their parallel and interconnecting storylines highlight the life, struggles and triumphs of the Native Americans during this era. I loved these characters, Patrice, in particular, as well as the many supporting characters.
Beth
Northern Spy by Flynn Berry
Other reviews will tell you that NORTHERN SPY is about two sisters in Ireland who become involved with the IRA. While that is true, this book centers even more on one of those sisters, Tessa, and her baby, Finn; their relationship is emphasized. It is through Tessa's eyes that the reader sees the stress of life in Northern Ireland and her resulting concern for Finn's future. As a producer for the BBC, Tessa one day sees security footage of an IRA robbery. Her sister Marian is one of the robbers. Tessa goes from disbelief to anger to becoming involved herself, although reluctantly. She never approves of the IRA's tactics; they frighten her. But she does what she does for eventual peace.
Sandra K.
All the Queen’s Men by S. J. Bennett
I loved this book about intrigue in Buckingham Palace. This is the second book and I liked it more than the first.
Rose
Her Hidden Genius by Marie Benedict
Excellent historical fiction about Rosalind Franklin, a groundbreaking scientist whose work in discovering the double helix and pioneering DNA research was taken by Watson and Crick without credit to Franklin. Very readable and interesting to read about this amazing strong and brilliant woman.
Terry
Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
Languidly paced, this is a coming-of-age story of Kya, abandoned by her parents and siblings one by one at a young age. Alone in the marsh she learns to fend for herself. She lives the land, which replaces school and she learns all about the inhabitants-birds, plants, insects, etc, befriending many of them. As she reaches young adulthood she is accused of a crime and must face the scrutiny of townspeople already convinced she is guilty. You can’t help but feel Kya’s deep pain and sorrow throughout this beautiful story and will find yourself constantly hoping she finally finds happiness.
Paula
Somebody’s Daughter by Ashley C. Ford
The first 2/3rds of this book were grim and depressing. It picked up in the latter pages, but I didn’t enjoy it much. The author sounded like a disgruntled teenager with a nut house of a mother. I wouldn’t recommend.
Cynthia
A Dark and Stormy Tea by Laura Childs
After reading so many historical fiction, serious mysteries and biographies I was so ready for a new Laura Childs tea shop mystery. She is a fun and easy read and after so many books. I feel I know Theodosia. I so want a tea shop just like that near my house. Having lived in the Charleston area for 12 years added to my enjoyment.
Susan
The Doctor of Aleppo by Dan Mayland
The story places the reader right in the horrible destruction of Aleppo by Assad's army and spies. Interesting characters, good scene setting and well-paced plotting.
Susan
Honor by Thirty Umrigar
Although not new, I just finished this brilliant, devastating novel. Umrigar manages to take an extraordinarily difficult topics and turn it into a complex story of India's racial divide. Meehan is a victim of her own brother's hatred that is so powerful it allows them to burn her husband and nearly kill her, too. It’s told by an expat journalist who struggles with her own family’s secret and complicated by her love and hate for all that India is. It will stay with me for a long time.
Gayle
Brazen by Julia Haart
After watching her Netflix show it is interesting to read about her background and how she changed her life.
Carol
The Latecomer by Jean Hanff Korelitz
Well-written story about a very unusual dysfunctional family.
Carol
Counterfeit by Kirstin Chen
Enjoyable book about the counterfeit handbag business with lots of twists and turns.
Cora
The Turn of the Key by Ruth Ware
I really enjoyed this book. Kept me on edge until the last chapter. I do wish that the explanation at the end of the novel gave us more insight into what would happen to the characters in the book, but I figure that is left to the imaginations of the readers.
Alice
The Sweet Taste of Muscadines by Pamela Terry
The book was really good. My book club will be discussing it this week and I’m anxious to see how others liked it.
Cora
The Push by Ashley Audrain
While I feel that this book should not be marketed as a thriller, I enjoyed it much more than I anticipated. Having an unreliable narrator tell the story really makes you question what insight is reliable and what is not. I was impressed that this was Audrain’s debut novel.
Nicolette
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid
This was a book with a premise I wasn’t sold on before starting it, but a friend convinced me. The characters were strong and kept the pages turning, but I wish Evelyn had maybe only 5 husbands. The end got me right in the feels though, so all the husbands were worth it.
Lana
The Autobiography of Henry VIII by Margaret George
I loved this book. Big and meaty, it was definitely a novel that a historical fiction lover can sink her teeth into. Although 944 pages long, I never found myself wanting to give up or rushing to get through it. The writing style was perfect for the portrayal of this AD mid-second millennium king who has gone down in history as the most famous monarch in history. The author's impeccable research is evident in every sentence and allows her to flesh out secondary characters as well as her title character. I'm so glad I was in the mood for a giant book and that I picked this one about a giant in history to read.
Kimberley
Dear Evan Hansen: The Novel by Val Emmich, Steven Levenson, Benj Pasek and Justin Paul
Before seeing the stage production I read this amazing story. The authors have captured the challenging journey of those teenagers who struggle with feelings of being invisible and picked on through high school. There are strong messages not to suffer alone. Everyone should read and it’s perfect for book clubs.
Jeanne
Sugar and Salt by Susan Wiggs
SUGAR AND SALT by Susan Wiggs is a heartwarming, sometimes tense and heartbreaking story that takes you on a roller-coaster journey filled with drama, secrets, romance, and deals with many controversial issues including rape, domestic abuse, poverty, racial and social injustices along with the criminal justice system. Without writing a synopsis and giving away any spoilers, I felt the author created and crafted the characters who fit perfectly with the storyline, and she did an excellent job in the way she wrote and covered the controversial issues. Of course, I loved the way she included all the good food in the book.
Linda
The Many Daughters of Afong Moy by Jamie Ford
I enjoyed THE HOTEL ON THE CORNER OF BITTER AND SWEET and was excited to read Ford's latest novel. This one is challenging but worth the effort. It delves into a scientific term, epigenetics, which was hard for me to understand. The 7 generations of women struggling with the inherited trauma passed down from Afong Moy is a story of resilience and hope.
Donna
A Slow Fire Burning by Paula Hawkins
The characters in this novel are so well drawn. The book is about the murder of a man on a narrowboat in London and how it affects the lives of four women. This one would make a great movie with some good casting for the actors.
Joan
Born a Crime by Trevor Noah
Shocking revelations!
Kathleen
The Other Girlfriend by Alex Stone
THE OTHER GIRLFRIEND by Alex Stone is a compelling story of Lizzie Green and her love for Tom Murphy. They were lifelong friends and even went to college together. One night in the past, lots of alcohol was consumed and a tragic accident occurred. Tom left for 10 years only to show up unannounced on Lizzie's (now calls herself Beth) doorstep. He kind of moves in without her permission. Unfortunately, she can't say no to Tom as she still loves him. Beth still has a lot of guilt pertaining to the accident and she just doesn't want her heart broken again. As time goes on though, she comes to realize exactly who Tom really is.
Sheree
Counterfeit by Kirstin Chen
I don't know what all the hype was about this book. It just didn't grab me. It took over two months to get at the library and it was such a fast read I don't know why it took so long to get.
Sharon
Joan by Katherine J. Chen
Interesting take on the story of Joan of Arc.
Sharon
The Many Daughters of Afong Moy by Jamie Ford
Does trauma imprint itself on our genetic makeup? That is the question Ford explores in this multi-generational story set in the past and extending into the future. I had never heard of epigenetic trauma before, but it seems to be something to consider.
Donna
The Story Hour by Thrity Umrigar
Lakshmi left India and is living in America with a domineering husband who doesn’t love her. She attempts to commit suicide and is placed in a mental hospital where she meets Maggie who will be her psychologist. Lakshmi is desperate for a friend, and the relationship gets fuzzy as Maggie tries to help her and still maintain a professional position. Lakshmi discovers a secret that involves Maggie causing damage to their friendship. We all make choices and consequences come with the choices.
Donna
The Woman in the Woods by J. E. Rowney
Katie and Seb have been a couple for a number of years. They aren’t married and the relationship has become strained. Katie decides that they need to stay in a cabin in the woods for a last chance vacation to work things out or call it quits. Arriving at the cabin they learn that a woman and her child disappeared about 20 years ago. The woman was found dead and the child never found. The locals in the nearby town claimed there was a ghost in the woods. Seb discovered there wasn’t a ghost but something much more sinister. This mystery was quick and easy to book to read.
Donna
The House in the Cerulean Sea by T. J. Klune
This is a fantasy story I read for book club. I must say that this was an interesting and unique story that really sucked me in. Linus lives a wretched, dark and dreary life. He is employed as an agent for the Department In Charge of Magical Youths and lives to the letter of the Rules and Regulations of the department Manuel. He travels to the orphanages of the department to make sure they are following the rules. The magical children are unwanted because they are different and not accepted by society. A child can be a gnome, wyvern, shifter, etc., that can do magical things. Linus learns many lessons when visiting an orphanage that is the 4th level of magic and about to be closed.
Donna
Watch Out For Her by Samantha M. Bailey
Holly grew up in a privileged home, but there are strings attached. Her father and stepmother want her to go to medical school and continue to legacy of the family pharmaceutical business. When Holly tells them that she doesn’t want to join the company she is disowned. Sarah and Daniel need a babysitter for their 6-year-old son, Jacob, for the summer. Holly needs work and interviews for the job. She is hired on the spot as they make a great connection. Holly needs family and Sarah needs a good friend. Things begin to spin out of control as secrets and lies are discovered. There are so many suspicious characters. This is an excellent psychological drama that includes trust, paranoia, voyeurism and obsession.
Donna
Girl in Ice by Erica Ferencik
Val specializes in languages, specifically dead Nordic languages. Andy, Val’s brother, is a climate scientist and working at a research station in Greenland and reported to have committed suicide. A young girl that was frozen in ice was found by the scientists and was successfully thawed. No one can understand her, so Val is called upon to try to communicate with her. Val not only is interested in the thawed girl but she is questioning her brothers death and wants answers. This novel places the reader in the frozen Arctic and you face the adventure and dangers of the severe climate. The unique storyline is interesting and keeps you involved.
Donna
Woman on Fire by Lisa Barr
WOMAN ON FIRE is a famous and lost painting that was stolen by the Nazis during WWII. Ellis’s mother was the model for this painting and her dying wish is to see it again. Margaux’s grandfather once owned this painting and no one will stand in her way of obtaining this piece of art. The stories inside the story includes history, scandal, murder, greed, obsession, deceit, love and more. This novel is fast-paced and a terrific read.
Donna
The Midwife’s Revolt by Jodi Daynard
Lizzie, the midwife, is the main fictional character in this very well-researched novel taking place near Charleston between 1775-1778. She is a young girl that was married for a very short time when her husband went to help fight the war as a Patriot. Lizzie was left to tend the farm, as were most women, since their men joined in the war effort. These women suffered the fears of losing their husbands, their property and their lives though drought, illness and not knowing who could be trusted since there were sympathizers and traitors in their midst. Abigail Adams was her best friend and ally.
Donna
Unmasked: My Life Solving America’s Cold Cases by Paul Holes
Paul, a real life cold case investigator, puts his life's work, the good and the bad, between the covers of this novel. He is obsessed with solving the most notorious killer cases at the cost of his own emotions and personal life. Paul can read people and discovers that even he can have tunnel vision when working a case. As the years go by and science improves, he will research the data and evidence to solve cases. He is determined to bring justice for the families of those who lost loved ones.
Donna
In Search of a Prince by Toni Shiloh
Brielle is 25 years old and a teacher in NYC when she is told that she is princess of an island off the coast of Africa. Her grandfather is the king and is dying. Brielle is the next in line to become queen. She travels to meet her grandfather and to learn what is expected of her. The Royal Council must approve of her and she must be married before she can come into power. This is a huge decision for an unmarried woman who must find a husband in order to become the queen. Brielle is a woman of faith and is certain of her decisions, though there are others who do not want her to rule.
Nancy
In Freedom’s Light by Sharon Gloger Friedman
A stirring tale of inner strength. The author delivers a noteworthy tale in her novel, IN FREEDOM'S LIGHT. The story opened my eyes to what hardships a family can endure, but having immense strength to carry them through. I was completely immersed in this heart-wrenching story. Sharon Gloger Friedman is an excellent writer; her research is stellar. She has her readers traveling to 1785, during the Spanish Inquisition to the early 1800s in South Carolina. She also gives great imagery from skillfully worded settings to the moving Sabbath candle blessing. The story gave me a great deal of sadness, but instilled a sheer warmth of love between a family despite difficult setbacks. A must-read for all to understand a difficult time in history.
Helen
Portrait of an Unknown Woman by Daniel Silva
Silva’s Gabriel Allon is retired in this 25th outing. But as you would expect, he finds himself in the middle of danger involving the art world. Silva dazzles me with his knowledge of the business of art, forgeries, and the lives of the super rich who spend millions to own paintings. A shade lighter than some of Allons other adventures, I enjoyed this dive into the dark side of beauty on canvas.
Jolene
Meant to Be by Emily Giffin
Emily does it again!! This book is so absorbing! I could not put this one down! Every one needs to read this incredible novel.
Janet
Little Secrets by Jennifer Hillier
One of the scariest things that could happen to a parent. Hard to put down.
Rose
The Binding Room by Nadine Matheson
Anjelica Henley is on a new case where a pastor is found dead and a young man is left barely alive. As she tries to unravel this case, she finds that people are fanatical and are performing exorcisms. Anjelica is also conflicted about her role as a police investigator vs. being a wife and mother.
As always, Matheson's characters are complex, and this novel continued to make you wonder who was the actual killer, as there were so many possibilities! Looking forward to Book 3!
Alyssa
The Family Upstairs by Lisa Jewell
One of the best thrillers I've read; all of the character perspectives were engaging, the plot was exciting, and I love the moral grayness of one character in particular. So looking forward to reading the sequel.
sherry
Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson
Really did enjoy this book. Kept my interest throughout the entire book.
Liz
The Darkest Evening by Ann Cleeves
This is a Vera Stanhope novel. Vera is a detective. While driving home one night she comes across an abandoned car with a baby inside. She takes the child in the hopes of finding the mother. This leads her to Brockburn, the grand house where her father grew up. Inside there is a party going on, outside there is a body that no one is aware of. Once the body is discovered Vera begins her investigation of what happened. If you enjoy the PBS series "Vera", you will love this book.
Sherri
Anansi Boys by Neil Gaiman
Ghosts, murder, gods, and spiders. A wild ride!
Marilyn
The Night Watchman by Louise Erdrich
Another wonderful read by Erdrich, this one about her grandfather's efforts to fight against the government's push for Indian termination in 1953. This plan would have ignored the US-Native American treaties and resulted in dispossessing Native American lands. An Indian delegation makes it to Washington, DC to pleas their case. As a result, the Turtle Mountain reservation is not terminated.
Thomas
A Flicker in the Dark by Stacy Willingham
A very excellent book. Really enjoyed reading it.
Debbie
The Ruin by Dervla McTiernan
A knitting designer recommended the books of Dervla McTiernan, set in Ireland. I just finished the first of the Cormac Reilly series and I am very impressed with the writing that delves into the psyche of the characters. The description of the landscape and buildings left me with a longing to visit Ireland. But ever present religious differences expose the undercurrent of bitterness of each religious group. So many obscure rules force women to face a life of exile for telling a truth or living a lie in order to find employment and lodging. THE RUIN shows the utter helplessness of the social institutions trying to aid women and children.
Rose
Send Her Back and Other Stories by Munashe Kaseke
SEND HER BACK is a series of stories of Zimbabwean woman and their experiences as immigrants in America, as well as the differences between U.S. and Zimbabwean culture. I really enjoyed some of the stories, especially the ones that detailed the difficulties they faced, as they are being stopped by police, as they struggle to get immigrant status, as they are noticed due to their deep color. It was painful to read some of these stories and recognize the awful way immigrants are treated, or how bad the immigration system is. The former POTUS called countries in Africa "S*hole countries", and his bigotry was highlighted and written about in this book.
Claire
Lost Girl by Chanda Hahn
I picked up this book because I absolutely adore Peter Pan retellings, and it did not disappoint. It had great intrigue, genuine and funny interactions among the characters, and tons of fun Peter Pan Easter Eggs. It follows a group of children who escaped from a test facility (Neverland) and are now seeing Shadows where there shouldn't be any. Wendy, the title Lost Girl, and Peter, the leader of these lost children, have to figure out what the Shadows want before lots of people get hurt.
Kim
The Girl Who Was Taken by Charlie Donlea
The first chapter has the reader on track to follow the mystery until it unravels and the story spins out of control. We meet a true cast of crazies, victims and spoiled teens until Livia takes on the case. She is determined to heal the community and solve these crimes using her skills as a student of forensic science. It’s a page-turner!
Tessa
Magic Bites by Ilona Andrews
Paranormal fantasy is just not my thing, but this was really quite fun to read. I loved that the main character is a kick-ass woman who does not suffer fools (or vampires or shapeshifters or demons, etc) lightly. There were parts of the storyline that reminded me of Jim Butcher’s Dresden Files stories. The action is nonstop and there’s some interesting sexual/romantic tension. If I need another paranormal fantasy for a challenge prompt I just might turn to Andrews in the future.
Melissa
Stay Awake by Megan Goldin
Whenever Liv falls asleep she forgets EVERYTHING! Her job is gone, her best friend is gone and she may be a murderer? This story is told from Liz’s point of view and from the detectives point of view, and I really enjoyed going back and forth between the two. It doesn’t take a genius to figure out the whodunnit, but the story to get there was a lot of fun. Highly recommend.
Nancy
More Than You’ll Ever Know by Katie Gutierrez
I had heard great things about this book. Story was clever and characters were fully developed but some of the plot points were a bit far-fetched, in my opinion. The writing was very good and read more like literacy fiction than a mystery/thriller. All the Spanish dialogue slowed my reading down having to do Google translations.
Alyssa
An Elderly Lady Is Up to No Good by Helene Tursten
Not really a mystery book, as we follow the perpetrator, but it has one of the most interesting and unique protagonists I've ever come across. Maud is quite a terrible person, but so entertaining.
Thomas
22 Seconds by James Patterson and Maxine Paetro
Excellent read.
Alyson
The Witch's Tower (Twisted Ever After, Book One) by Tamara Grantham
A new take on Rapunzel's fairy tale is this story with witches, dragons, a princess and two princes. An action-filled fantasy where they were chased, and vines from a packet of magic seeds grew to reach the tower.
Laura
The Music of Bees by Eileen Garvin
Almost put it down. The last 100 pages is worth the entire read. I couldn't put it down and finished it. Also, loved learning more about bees.
Claire
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J. K. Rowling
This is such a great start to the series. It's lighthearted, it's fun, it's full of cool magic. It's hard for me to imagine a more magical start to a series.
Claire
Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets by J. K. Rowling
I really loved this one too. The foreshadowing for the rest of the series is great and the characters really feel like they're growing as the stakes are increased.
Claire
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban by J. K. Rowling
This one was great, but Draco had me so mad throughout the book. Poor Buckbeak did nothing wrong! And the introduction of the marauders was a wild ride in both a good and bad way.
Claire
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire by J. K. Rowling
This one has to be my favorite book in the whole series; it's just perfect to me. It's funny and dramatic, has an amazing cast of characters with the introduction of some of the best in the series: Rita Skeeter, Fleur, Krum, and Cedric. It is such a great combination of relatable teen drama and super cool magic! It's longer than the previous three, but does not feel it.
Claire
Harry Potter and the Order of the Pheonix by J. K. Rowling
This book is a nightmare to an ex teacher. Umbridge's observations gave me such bad secondhand anxiety. Not to mention how mad her form of discipline toward the students made me. Add all the awkward teen romance - it was just not a favorite for me.
Claire
Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince by J. K. Rowling
This was definitely better than the last, but I was a little disappointed to have misremembered it. I loved the parts with Voldemort's and Snape's pasts (who doesn't love some good backstory), but most of this book was Harry just creeping around and spying on people. I think it could have been shorter and I would have rated it higher.
Sherri
The Power of Regret by Daniel H. Pink
No regrets! is a poor life motto according to Pink. As far as self-help books go, this is one of the most thought-provoking yet practical ones I have read in awhile. I listened on audio, but need to get a hard copy to go back and refer to as I have already forgotten the steps to take to use regret to enhance your future decision making and life choices. It has an a plethora of scientific research well documented, but he adds in his own practical ways to use regret in a positive way. I laughed at the accurate description of me as a decision maker and had to stop to ponder the idea that "self-esteem" could lead to aggression. This would be an interesting book club read with the right group - he even mentions forming a regret group.
Claire
Blood of Vengeance by Angel Haze
It follows the story of a mage turned slave and gladiator as punishment for a terrible past crime as he fights for both survival and his freedom. The main villain is good, but I was obsessed with the secondary villain who had some serious Lady McBeth vibes - I finished reading the book for her.
Jean
Olive Kitteridge by Elizabeth Strout
This is high quality writing, a series of long short stories linked together by the presence of the title character. Regrettably, Olive is not particularly likable. I have a hard time enjoying books with unlikable characters. Others must have liked it more than I did as it won the Pulitzer Prize.
Kay
What Happened to the Bennetts by Lisa Scottoline
Her latest story kept me on the edge of my seat, pulling me through to the ending. Good plot, characters and an ending that kept my attention!
Kay
The Love of My Life by Rosie Walsh
Interesting plot as her story is unfolded. He thought he knew his wife but suddenly there were unexplained people and stories that didn't add up. Who is she? I liked the way the story reveals the answer.
Kay
Falling by T. J. Newman
The passengers on the way to New York City don't know that the pilot of the plane is threatened with his family at gun point and to be killed unless he crashes the plane where he is instructed to go. Against advice the captain, the pilot tells the crew about the danger so that they can prepare the passengers without letting them know what's happening. Very believable storyline.
Kay
After the Crash by Michel Bussi
Michel Bussi is the number 1 selling French author in France who deserves our attention for his well-crafted stories. This mystery kept me guessing all the way to end with question after question unanswered until the very last 25 pages.
Kay
Spider Woman's Daughter by Anne Hillerman
Tony Hillerman's very popular Chee and Leaphorn mystery series has been taken up by his daughter Anne Hillerman. It felt good to get back to two characters I enjoyed reading in his long-running series. A good read and mystery.
Margaret
American Dirt by Jeanine Cummins
Authors who reviewed this novel said "extraordinary", "riveting," & "a dazzling accomplishment." After Lydia and her son, Luca are forced to flee Acapulco, they head to the U.S. as migrants. She believes that it's the only place where they can be safe from a drug cartel that has ruined their lives. They encounter other migrants from Mexico and Central America also heading to the U.S. Each has a story to tell about their former lives. This novel is not for sensitive readers. Some scenes are hard to read. Novel does not have political undertones. There's terror but also joy, fear but also hope, and the entire novel is totally unpredictable.
Dorothy
The Many Daughters of Afong Moy by Jamie Ford
THE MANY DAUGHTERS OF AFONG MOY is an entertaining and thought-provoking novel. It explores the subject of epigenetic inheritance or how trauma can be passed on through generations.
Francisca
Have a Little Faith by Mitch Albom
3.5 stars. Albom explores what it means to live a life of faith by looking at two very different congregations and their preachers: Rabbi Albert Lewis and Pastor Henry Covington. These two men could not be more different and yet each exemplified what it means to life a life of faith. There were a couple of times when I bristled at the feeling of being emotionally manipulated, but in the end I found it moving and thought-provoking, comforting and challenging.
Patricia
The Best Is Yet to Come by Debbie Macomber
I’ve been an avid Debbie Macomber fan for many years because her books make a heart-warming impact on my soul. Her latest, THE BEST IS YET TO COME lived up to my expectations. I immediately related to the main character Hope Goodwin because, like her, I have lost my twin and understand the unique bond shared and the emotional scars over the loss of a twin. Hope decides to move to Oceanside, WA, a small town as a new beginning in life. Urged by her landlord, she volunteers at the local animal shelter where she meets with Cade Lincoln, a wounded veteran. They gradually learn to trust, hope, and love again. This is such a refreshing and inspirational story, and it left me wanting to read a sequel.
Beth
Every Last Fear by Alex Finlay
Alex Finlay's EVERY LAST FEAR is a mystery/thriller with lots of twists. I loved reading it, didn’t want to put it down, and certainly didn’t want it to end. The story is told from several different perspectives. Each contributes to the several mysteries going on. We begin with Matt, who's away at college when an FBI agent informs him that his parents and sister and brother have died in Mexico. Why were they in Mexico? Were their deaths an accident? Could this be a murder suicide, or could they have all been murdered? Either way, why? Who might be involved? Matt travels to Mexico to have his family's bodies released and sent back to the U.S. In Mexico he encounters trouble over and over.
Sandra K.
Friend of the Devil: An Inspector Banks Novel by Peter Robinson
Peter Robinson's 17th DCI Banks novel is yet another strong entry in this great series. Robinson once again shows tremendous skill, as he weaves two separate plots into one seamlessly entertaining police procedural story.
