This contest period's winners were Elly L., Myrna P. and Rose M., who each received a copy of BULLY MARKET by Jamie Fiore Higgins and FOX CREEK by William Kent Krueger.
Richard N B
Five Days in London: May 1940 by John Lukacs
Historian John Lukacs has written over twenty books, several dealing with World War II. In this book he focuses specifically on Winston Churchill and the five days from May 24 to May 28, 1940. We obviously know the outcome already, but Lukacs manages to convey the sense of urgency and tension and uncertainty of this moment in history. This is a slim volume, but very dense.
Sean
The Treatment by Mo Hayder
I really enjoyed the first book in this series and this one was even better. Author, Mo Hayder delivers an amazingly sad and disturbing novel about pain and suffering. There were so many characters affected by so many different levels of depravity. You feel sorry for so many characters but utter disgust for others. You want to like the protagonist but he's extremely flawed. The book was dark and tormented, and I couldn't stop reading and thinking about what was going to happen next. Overall, a disturbing masterpiece.
Peg
A Trick of Light by Louise Penny
Life goes on in Three Pines, but this time the murder of an art critic keeps Inspector Gamache occupied.
Sheila
The Paris Bookseller by Kerri Maher
Moved a bit slowly.
Pat
The Island of the Sea Women by Lisa See
Wonderful story of the women who are divers living on the island of Jeju off the coast of Korea. They are breadwinners in the family while the men stay home with the children. A compelling read which also chronicles the friendship of two women from their baby divers days to their estrangement as adults.
Nancy
The Second Life of Mirielle West by Amanda Skenendore
Before reading this book, all I knew about leprosy was that there was a colony in Hawaii and Ben Hur's mother and sister suffered from it. Turns out there was a real, second leper colony outside New Orleans. It is the focus for this book, when a Hollywood socialite contracts leprosy in the 1920s and is sent there. It's a story about life, love, friendships with unexpected people in unexpected places and having faith. It's not overly graphic, although it does depict the disease in realistic terms. I like books that I can both enjoy and learn from and this book, by an author I'd never heard of, qualifies.
JEAN
The Change by Kirsten Miller
Very compelling story of three women with special powers who solve mysteries of missing young girls. It is a very female empowering story, but goes a little beyond the pale with planned murders.
Cyndi
‘Tis by Frank McCourt
Periodically my book group chooses an older book that we feel will generate a lively discussion. 'TIS did not disappoint! It was a difficult book to work through, due to his repetitive narrative and sometimes crude, offensive descriptions. Our resulting discussion was indeed lively! We walked away agreeing that the book had been challenging, but worth reading.
Alice
The Magnolia Palace by Fiona Davis
Wonderful, wonderful! The two time frames were easy to follow...loved the beautiful mansion that played such a huge part in the story.
PJ
Quicksand (Champions, Book 3) by Janet Dailey
Brock and Tess have been butting heads for years, but now they are brought together by their love of bucking bulls and rodeos. Brock forces a partnership with Tess' family to keep their ranch out of foreclosure which most certainly doesn't help the situation between the two strong-minded individuals. Now Brock's past has caught up with him, anonymous mail starts showing up, a prize bull is murdered and other very disquieting things start happening. Who is it that is causing the trouble? The novel chronicles Tess' family and their daily struggles with personal issues and the ranch that is beloved by them all. I really enjoyed the book with all the twists and turns and a very surprising ending. I highly recommend it.
Rebecca
The Lost Girls of Paris by Pam Jenoff
Interesting story about young women being recruited to work undercover in France during WWII. I liked the prospective of three different women and learned a lot about this period in our history.
Bob
The Devil May Care by David Housewright
Thriller...keeps you on the edge...
Betty
Down Cemetery Road by Mick Herron
I've read all of the Slow Horses series, so now I am starting the Oxford series. Much murder and mayhem. Great dialogue.
Nadine
Oh, William! by Elizabeth Strout
Newly widowed Lucy Barton, a successful writer now in her sixties, has retained an amicable relationship with her first husband - the father of her two daughters. This complex relationship stands at the heart of the novel - a story of regret, reflection and the revelation of some surprising family secrets. This is a short novel and a quick read that will, nonetheless, give you plenty to think about when you have finished it.
Linda
The Maze by Nelson DeMille
As always, a "great and entertaining" read!!
Linda
The Lost Apothecary by Sarah Penner
In 1791 London, Nella, an apothecary, secretly dispenses poisons for women who need justice for male wrongs. Intriguing and I learned a new word - "mudlarking" by which present day Caroline discovers this dark history.
Ivy
The Tobacco Wives by Adele Myers
The era of a time when it was chic and cool for women to smoke is not lost on the residents of the community in North Carolina. Yet when Maddie discovers the harmful effects a new brand called MOMents for new mothers to ease anxiety and such, much is at stake by exposing the ills of smoking. Myers does an authentic job at revealing the historical presence and power of the tobacco industry.
Muriel
A Light Beyond the Trenches by Alan Hlad
Alan Hlad’s well researched WWI book shows events happening to German soldiers and citizens from their perspective and how the war affected them mentally and physically. There was much chemical warfare taking place with not only deaths but horrible injuries including blindness. Dr. Stalling, a real person, saw a need to train German shepherds as guide dogs to increase the morale and productivity of those blinded. Thus comes the fictional story of Anna, a nurse who becomes a trainer when a Jewish German officer needs a trainer and a place to board. There is joy and heartache in the bond formed between Anna, Max, and injured dog Nia. There is deep remorse with Bruno, who deploys chemical weapons. Compassion can be felt for all.
Jill
Local Gone Missing by Fiona Barton
She writes a very incredible story. So many different pieces that all come together in the end. Something was happening and I just couldn’t put it down till I figured it out or finished the book.
Sheree
Wrong Place, Wrong Time by Gillan McAllister
Excellent book. A page-turner, one I didn't want to put down and one I recommended to friends. It made me think that we should all live in the present and pay attention to what is really going on. Loved everything about this book!
Leah
Acts of Violet by Margarita Montimore
I loved this story of family, loss and magic. Ms. Montimore uses podcasts, emails, letters and articles to tell this unique story. Definitely a must-read.
Myrna
Count the Ways by Joyce Maynard
Reading this book is like living the life of a marriage. The characters are realistically depicted; no one is perfect. No heroes, no villains, if we're fair in our evaluations. Kids are born, they're loved, and yet they can't be protected from the vicissitudes of life. I loved the way the author began the story at the end, took us all the way back to the times before there even was a marriage, then takes us on the long ride of the marriage.
Elizabeth
Ghosts of Harvard by Francesca Serritella
I mostly listened to this book. It follows Cadie, a Harvard freshman whose brother committed suicide while at Harvard the year before she started. She goes despite the objections of her mother who blames the school for her son’s death. Cadie goes to Harvard anyway to try to make sense of her brother’s death, hoping to find answers by seeking out his friends. As she starts to explore her brother’s time there, she starts hearing voices and wonders if she is descending into madness too. The book did a good job of weaving a mystery while keeping Cadie and the reader guessing as to whether she was losing her mind. I liked the historical aspects of the ghosts but found them rather unbelievable and didn’t feel they were ever properly explained.
Kathy
The Fearless Moral Inventory of Elsie Finch by Lynn Byk
I loved this journey - Lynn Byk manages to explore the darker side of human foibles - while at the same time weaving in a bright thread of hope. It's like watching a skillful hand do alterations to a beautiful dress: the dress is beautiful but filled with complex patterns and stubborn knots; the unrelenting restoration is the story. The result is a family of hearts altered and reworked. And still the family bears fruit in desert places.
Adrien
Groupies by Sarah Priscus
GROUPIES is about Faun Novak who, after leaving Vassar College, heads to California to live with her best friend from high school, Josie. Josie has made a life for herself as one of the groupies for a band named Holiday Sun. The novel unfolds as this duo makes bad decision after bad decision under the guise of living a rock star lifestyle during the "golden era of fearless girls". So, how bad will things get? Will these two survive this lifestyle? Will they completely lose who they are or will they find themselves along the way?
Adrien
Briefly, A Delicious Life by Nell Stevens
I loved this beautifully-written book.
Adrien
Into the Riverlands by Nghi Vo
INTO THE RIVERLANDS is the third story in The Singing Hills series about the Cleric, Chih, and their travels. Although just over one hundred pages, this story is dense. Good dense. There are stories upon stories in this fabulous book.
Maria
The Henna Artist by Alka Joshi
Extremely interesting book. It takes place in India in the 1950s and it covers a variety of topics as the main character is trying to recover from an abusive marriage and tries to pursue her dream of an independent life.
Barbara
Did Ye Hear Mammy Died? by Seamas O’Reilly
Lovely, touching and deeply humorous, this memoir about dealing with grief and growing up one of eleven siblings is a real treat.
Francisca
A Tale For the Time Being by Ruth Ozeki
This is Ozeki’s most widely-read work (if the Goodreads ratings are any indication). It was nominated for both the Booker Prize and the National Book Critics Circle Award, and it won the Los Angeles Times Book Prize. I don’t think I’ve ever read anything quite like this. Yes, I’ve read other books with multiple narrators and with multiple time lines. But there is an ethereal quality to Ozeki’s novel that I can’t remember ever encountering. I felt transported and immersed in these characters’ lives, even though I didn’t always want to be there. Nao’s story is particularly distressing with the bullying she endures, her family’s disastrous financial situation and her father’s deep depression.
Debbie
The Scholar by Dervla McTiernan
What a curvy trip to catch a murderer! And what is the motive for brutally killing two young women? Dervla McTiernan captures the doubt and suspicion of the characters from Cormac Reilly to his second-in-command. Cormac even begins to doubt his girlfriend, Emma Sweeny. The story centers on finding what has happened. All clues point to Darcy lab, as the two women both worked for John Darcy. The case centers on intelligence, money, and courage. The first lady to be killed was intentionally hit by a car and so disfigured that identity is difficult. Cormac chases the clues, but his love of Emma blinds him to the truth. Dervla McTiernan writes an interesting mystery set in Ireland with all the quirky characters and psychological insight.
Gerry
Daughters of Smoke and Fire by Ava Homa
4-1/2 stars for this compelling (and at times horrifying) tale of a family of Kurds in Iraq and Iran. The struggles of this stateless people, whose homeland (Kurdistan) was separated by colonial powers into four different newly-created nations (Turkey, Iraq, Iran, and Syria) following the defeat of the Ottoman Empire in 1918-1920, are clearly outlined in this novel, which follows the coming-of-age of Leila, a young Kurdish/Iranian girl, and her brother Chia in the late twentieth century. While all in this group suffered from prejudice and social restrictions, conditions for women in the Islamic state of Iran at this time were particularly harsh. Although fictional, this novel is inspired by the writings and life of Farzad Kamangar.
Gerry
The Maid by Nita Prose
I considered abandoning this one early on, but decided to continue and see how it played out. While I didn't dislike it, I really didn't enjoy it either. The odd-person-on-the-spectrum trope is wearing more than a little thin from overuse, and in this iteration, especially, I found the use of Molly's disability as a plot device particularly annoying, and actually disrespectful to those who share her difficulties. I hoped that the "twist" at the end (referred to in other reviews I'd read) might redeem the novel, but it failed to do so, coming completely out of nowhere, and seeming to me completely inconsistent with the character of Molly that had been created up to that point. Not one I can recommend.
Gerry
Too Bright to See by Kyle Lukoff
An eleven-year-old is haunted by a ghost after his uncle’s death, leading to self-discovery. Juvenile fiction, well-written and engaging.
Gerry
My Name is Leon by Kit de Waal
Loved this story, despite the heartbreaking circumstances it included. Told from the perspective of a 9-10 year old boy, this was good reminder of the difficulties inherent in the foster care and adoption systems, especially for children of color, and of the racism still faced all too often by both children and adults of color. The audiobook narrator, Lenny Henry, was excellent.
Gerry
Lucy by the Sea by Elizabeth Strout
Set in 2020-21, LUCY BY THE SEA is a pandemic story, and an American story, but most of all, a family story. As the COVID pandemic begins to spread, Lucy's ex-husband, William, contacts her to ask her to go with him to Maine, where he has rented a cottage to escape NYC, and reluctantly she agrees. He also encourages their two daughters to leave the city, with mixed success. The novel began very slowly for me, but I'm glad I persisted, because it developed into a wonderful study of relationships among family members and friends, showcasing Strout's incredible ability to develop her characters' personalities and interweave their stories. This novel reads like a memoir of a flawed but amazingly perceptive woman. Highly recommended.
Gerry
Out of the Easy by Ruta Sepetys
Ruta Sepetys never fails to entertain as well as inform, in this case about life in "the Quarter" of New Orleans in the early 1950s. A novel filled with engaging characters, OUT OF THE EASY is a heartwarming tale of one young woman, the daughter of a prostitute and an unknown father, who wants desperately to build a better life for herself. With the support of numerous friends, she is close to achieving her goal when everything falls apart as a result of her own mother's treachery. Josie is a character you can't help but admire, and one I continued to cheer on right to the end.
Gerry
Take My Hand by Dolen Perkins-Valdez
TAKE MY HAND is based loosely on a real court case in 1973 (Relf v. Weinberger) involving two young girls who were involuntarily sterilized in a federally-funded family planning clinic. The novel flows well in its development of the story about the girls, their family, and the treatment they received at the hands of the government and the court case that resulted. But the author's attempt to tie the 1970s era events to nurse Civil Townsend's life in the twenty-first century is often jarring and confusing, and Civil's own personality and life events are underdeveloped. Still, I do recommend the book to readers who enjoy historical fiction, and commend the author for bringing to light a painful part of our past that is too often ignored.
Gerry
Eve in Hollywood by Amor Towles
I doubt that I'll ever give a five-star rating to a collection of short stories; this genre invariably leaves me feeling a bit dissatisfied and wishing for more. This collection, which is a sequel of sorts to RULES OF CIVILITY, is no exception. While the stories are beautifully written, and provide interesting and engaging glimpses into Eve's life after she fled NY for LA, I can't help but wish that Towles had developed them into a full novel about this fascinating -- but still largely unknown to me -- character.
Gerry
Rules of Civility by Amor Towles
Romance is not a genre that usually appeals to me, and this book seems to me to qualify as a romance novel. But the writing is so exquisite, it carried an otherwise less-than-thrilling story and held my interest throughout. While I didn't love most of the characters, I could empathize with their circumstances and the choices they had to make, and Towles' descriptions of the city, the time period, and the lives of his characters consistently rang true. I do think this novel could make a wonderful movie that would appeal to the same audience as Downton Abbey and other period dramas.
Gerry
Two Nights in Lisbon by Chris Pavone
This was a riveting mystery set in present day Lisbon. A women who traveled from New York to Lisbon to accompany her husband on a business trip awakens in their hotel room to find him missing, with no note or other indication of where he'd gone. After a short time with no word from him, she begins to panic and tries to enlist the aid of the local police and the American Embassy to find him, but is largely rebuffed as an hysterical woman. Pavone spooled out this compelling tale with just enough background information about both the main characters to keep me guessing what was happening until almost the very end. And a very satisfying end it was!
Gerry
Gentlemen of the Road by Michael Chabon
Chabon originally titled this short novel JEWS WITH SWORDS, but apparently had trouble getting anyone to take that title seriously. But that’s what it’s about: two adventurers, both Jews, though hailing from far distant empires in Francia and Africa, who travel across the Caucasus Mountains in the year 950 CE, “living as they please and surviving however they can” until they are drawn into service as dragoons and defenders to a prince of the Khazar Empire. It’s an engaging journey with some basis in history, and I enjoyed it thoroughly.
Gerry
Steve & Me by Terri Irwin
This book taught me a good bit about the wildlife of Australia, as well as about the life and work of Steve Irwin.
Gerry
The Dinner by Herman Koch
3-1/2 stars for a very well-written short novel about two couples (brothers and their wives), the couples’ teenaged sons, and their reactions and decisions when they discover the boys’ seriously bad behavior. Though the characters in this novel were completely despicable, there was a quality of directness in the writing that kept me fully engaged, even eager to see how the story played out.
Gerry
Still Life by Val McDermid
STILL LIFE is an excellent police procedural set in Scotland involving art theft, fraud, false identities, and murder. No need to summarize the plot here as the publisher's blurb does that quite well. This is the second book I've read in the Karen Pirie series, and I've enjoyed both. McDermid's novels are tightly plotted, with interesting characters, and a nice balance between character development and advancing the story.
Gerry
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
LESSONS IN CHEMISTRY is a completely engaging tour through the world of the 1960s from a woman's perspective. Even though I came of age in that era, I'd largely forgotten just how backward a time it was; it's hard to imagine that some people still call for a return to those "good old days"! Woman had virtually no rights, regardless of their financial status, and were relegated to an inferior position to that of men in every aspect of life -- except housekeeping, childcare, and cooking, where of course woman were the experts, though even there their contributions were taken for granted and not really valued. Garmus created interesting and realistic characters to populate her story, and wrote it with crisp dialog and a humorous flair.
Gerry
The Cartographers by Peng Shepherd
THE CARTOGRAPHERS was headed for a four-star rating but became just a bit too fantastical near the end, causing me to drop it to 3-1/2 stars. I did enjoy it, but found myself more than a little confused by events leading to its conclusion. The author got the idea for this novel from a real incident involving a false location inserted into a map made by a small company seeking to prove that Rand-McNally was stealing their data rather than doing their own independent surveys to create their maps. In this novel, a similarly faked location becomes the locus of a series of events both tragic and bizarre. Interesting characters and settings kept me entertained to the end.
Gerry
The Murder Rule by Dervla McTiernan
I thoroughly enjoyed this suspenseful novel about a third-year law student finagling a spot on the Innocence Project and onto the team handling their most pressing case, all in order to disrupt their work and seek revenge for an old crime. Very well-plotted with engaging characters, some to love and some to hate. I’ll happily read more from this author.
Gerry
Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson
I loved every word of this novel, and found it all the more amazing because it is the author's first. Wilkerson managed to craft an intricately plotted family story with well-developed and interesting characters, and at the same time to weave in themes of race and class, voluntary and involuntary migration, cultural appropriation, family secrets and traditions, and so much more, without ever becoming pedantic or losing the thread of her story. I won't even begin to try to summarize the plot here; the publisher's blurb does a more than adequate job of that. I look forward to re-reading this book in the fall/winter when it's up for discussion with my book club.
Gerry
The Latecomer by Jean Hanff Korelitz
4.5 stars! If you're looking for a fast-paced, plot-driven novel, look elsewhere. But if you enjoy a rich character study with an interesting spin on current-day socio-political issues, grab THE LATECOMER and start reading. This is the story of a family of three siblings growing up in the latter decades of the twentieth century, triplets born in the early days of in-vitro fertilization. Despite the strenuous efforts of their mother to create a family with strong bonds of affection, the siblings actually grow up counting the days until they can go their separate ways. Not until a fourth sibling, born almost two decades later in the aftermath of 9/11, is approaching her own adulthood will they find reasons to reconnect.
Anne Marie
The Seagull by Ann Cleeves
I LOVE Vera, but I hate how they always say how fat and unattractive she is. To me - she is beautiful. Of course, I might be influenced by the wonderful performance of Brenda Blethyn. Still, the stories are complex and how I do love a good mystery!
Janet
Little Secrets by Jennifer Hillier
Secrets have a way of always coming out. And not always in a good way.
Meggan
The Homewreckers by Mary Kay Andrews
The feisty characters Harriet and Cass are anything but "girly", and I would love for them to tackle my home improvement projects. The plot was a bit predictable but with enough twists to keep me interested and entertained.
Kim
The Safe Place by Anna Downes
From the beginning this suspense story has the reader second guessing. The main character, Emily may have found her perfect job with a lovely family at a French estate. However, nothing is as it appears. The story begins slowly but soon it is a page-turner. It’s a great length with lots of mystery and build-up. Do not read while alone!
Linda
The Truth About Unspeakable Things by Emily A. Myers
Emma Marshall ended her engagement to Beaux Thomas after catching him cheating but he didn’t take it well and beat, raped, and choked her. He tells her “Now we’re done” but several months later he’s back and furious that she aborted their baby. In retaliation, he kills her neighbor who has been like a father to her. When Emma finds out about a notorious sex club that Beaux is a member of, she decides to write about it but he is sent to shut her up. He shoots Julian Cole but he is knocked out with a baseball bat held by Julian’s brother. Emma thinks that the article will take down these men but they are too powerful and she and Julian are on the run. After a year running, they are back in New Orleans, but is it safe?
Linda
Bound by the Unspeakable by Emily A. Myers
Emma Marshall and Julian Cole are back in New Orleans after being on the run from the Brotherhood who ran the Gents Club and was also behind human trafficking. They haven’t forgotten Emma and how she tried to bring them down. Now she has someone who is also on her side. Alister Amato lost his sister to the Brotherhood as they kidnapped and sold her. Emma works with Alister to figure out a plan to take down the group. Before they could carry it out, the Brotherhood got Julian and his brother Mason. Now Emma is fighting mad. If anything happens to Julian, her life would be over.
Linda
Hidden by Laura Griffin
Bailey Rhoads, investigative reporter, and Jacob Merritt, lead investigator with Austin PD, team up to catch a killer. She is smart and puts her life in danger in following leads. He is stunned at what she uncovers.
Linda
The Neighbors by Nancy Bush
Mackenzie Laughlin is hired to find out the identity of the porch pirate at a neighbor’s house. Jesse James Taft is concerned when one of his CI’s is found hanged and he knows it’s no suicide. He thinks that former bad cop Keith Silva had something to do with it. Silva was fired when he killed his partner and said it was an accident, and now he is having an affair with the cop’s wealthy widow. Taft knows he’s guilty but has to prove it. Too many characters and too much going on in this book to rate more than 3 stars.
Linda
The Retreat by Sarah Pearse
Detective Elin Warner and her partner Steed are sent to Cary Island when a body is found at a resort. At first it appears that the young woman fell off a balcony when she tried to reach over to retrieve a scarf. But did she fall or was she pushed? Elin talks to family members who were unaware she was coming to the island. Shortly thereafter another member of their party is found murdered in the water. He had on scuba gear but the air cylinder had been shut off and it looked like the hood had been held, possibly holding the young man underwater. Elin and Steed are unable to get any help from the mainland so they are on their own and up against an unknown killer.
Linda
The Father's Son by Peter McPhie
Andrew Locke was only seven when he saw his father led away by a man wearing a hood over his face. Andrew never forgot looking into the man’s evil eyes. Now grown, he is an agent with the FBI who is called to Philadelphia by his father’s old friend Wesley Lawrence, SAC of the FBI’s Philadelphia office. Lawrence wants Andrew to help locate a man known as The Watcher who was responsible for his father’s disappearance and presumed death. Lawrence knows more about this man than he tells Andrew. Andrew is determined to find the man with the evil eyes and kill him with no remorse, the same way he took Andrew’s father. Thanks to Goodreads for a free copy of this great book.
Ann Marie
The Pallbearer's Club by Paul Tremblay
I just didn't understand this. I even went so far as to go on Goodreads to ask Paul Trembley what this book was about and he said it was part memoir and part...to tell you the truth I forget. Well I'm just being honest - you can't like every book.
Beth
Little Nothings by Julie Mayhew
4.5 stars. In the crowded field of psychological suspense with female narrators, this one really stands out. I was hooked from the beginning and carried along as the toxicity of these friendships becomes more and more insidious. Unlike many other offerings in this genre, the ending proved to be utterly satisfying and believable, with no gimmicks to spoil it. Highly recommend.
Tessa
Evans Above by Rhys Bowen
Book # 1 in the Constable Evans mystery series. I can’t really call it a cozy because our lead character is a policeman, after all, and NOT an amateur sleuth, but it has many of the hallmarks of cozies. I enjoyed the book, though it was a bit slow-moving.
Donna
A Greater Journey: Americans in Paris by David McCullough
Historical novel, excellent read.
Bob
The Bitterroots by C. J. Box
Wow, what a book. Hard to put it down.
Rose
The Night Ship by Jess Kidd
Thank you to Book Club Favorites at Simon & Schuster for the free copy for review. THE NIGHT SHIP is a historical fiction novel based on the ship Batavia which was traveling to the Dutch East Indies in 1629. Mayken, an orphan girl, explores the ship, traveling below decks to mingle with the other passengers. She hears stories and fables about a monster, and makes some new friends. However, she can't imagine the evil the ship holds, and the losses she will experience.
In 1989, an orphaned boy, Gil, is sent to live with his grandfather on a small island off the coast of Western Australia. The islanders tell Gil the story of Batavia and the ghosts of the ship. Gil needs to decide if the ghosts are real. I did not know about the Batavia.
Rose
The Other Side of Night by Adam Hamdy
Thank you to Book Club Favorites at Simon & Schuster for the free copy for review. This is a mind-bending thriller. Harri finds a note in a book that leads her to investigate the suspicious disappearance of a man. Although she has been released from the police force, she asks her former partner to help her investigate. The investigation zeroes in on a man Harri once dated, Ben Elmys, and his involvement with the Asha family, physicists David and Beth. David disappeared without a trace shortly after his wife Beth died of cancer, and their son, Elliot became Ben's ward. Once Ben became Elliot's guardian, he told Harri that they needed to break up, and she was devastated. Strange happenings, and bizarre conclusion!
Rose
Flying Solo by Linda Holmes
Laurie's great aunt Dot has died at 93. Laurie returns to her hometown in Maine to clean out the house. In doing so, she uncovers many treasures of Dot's, including a carved duck with a note attached. Laurie is curious about the duck, and an an unscrupulous antiques dealer attempts to purchase the duck from Laurie after telling her it is worthless. Laurie is hesitant, and she involves her friends to help her find out the mystery of the duck and expose the dealer in the process.
Also, Laurie reunites with her first love, Nick, but makes it clear that she likes being on her own. Will Nick and Laurie be able to give each other their space? A cute romance novel with another great narration by Julia Whelan.
Rose
The Finalists by David Bell
Six students are gathered to compete for the Hyde scholarship which provides tuition and other financial benefits to the winner. The students are locked in the Hyde House, per tradition, with VP of school, Troy Gaines, and the trustee and member of the donor family, Nicholas Hyde. Each student has been selected due to financial need and academic talent. When strange things begin to occur during the proceedings, everyone starts to suspect the other candidates, until the explosive ending reveals all. The concept of the method and procedure associated with choosing the scholarship winner was bizarre and I didn't really care about any of the characters. I did like all the red herrings and suspicion, but it wasn't enough.
Rose
With Prejudice by Robin Peguero
There is a trial of a young man accused of sexual assault and murder of a young woman. It also provides insight into the lives of the jurors and the lawyers. You get to follow the jury selection, the evidence, and the deliberations. I listened to this book, and I think it may have been easier to follow as a print or eBook.
Rose
A Lady's Guide to Fortune Hunting by Sophie Irwin
Kitty Talbot is responsible for securing the future for herself and her four sisters. Since there is no one in her town able to marry her and provide for their future financially, paying off her family debts, Kitty sets off to London to seek a proposal. However, the secrets of her parents' courtship precede her and polite society doesn't want to accept her and her sisters. Kitty sets her sights on some wealthy patrons, but is thwarted by Lord Radcliffe who recognizes her intent. This is a cute romance for those enjoy tales of royal society.
Rose
The Unsinkable Greta James by Jennifer E. Smith
Greta is a musician. After her mom dies suddenly, she has a problem performing. Greta's brother calls her and asks her to accompany their father on an Alaskan cruise that her parents and some of their friends had planned to celebrate Greta's parents 40th anniversary. While on the trip, Greta and her father have to confront the issues in their relationship. Greta also meets a man, an author, Ben Wilder, on the trip and starts a relationship. This is about a woman coming to terms with her grief, and learning how to move forward.
Rose
A Map for the Missing by Belinda Huijuan Tang
Debut novel about a man who returns to China to search for his father who mysteriously disappeared. Although he had a contentious relationship with his father, he felt he needed to help his mother in the search to find his father, so he travels from his home in the US to China. While on his trip he recalls various years of his life. As part of his search, he seeks out a childhood friend to enlist her help. This is a sad tale of a son and his relationship to his father and others, along with missed opportunities.
Rose
1979 by Val McDermid
1979 is a new series featuring reporter Allie Burns. At The Clarion, Allie isn't taken seriously because she is a woman, only getting puff pieces to write or edit. When she becomes friends with another reporter, Danny Sullivan, they team to break two stories, one involving money laundering and the second to crack a terrorist plot. Meanwhile, Rona, another reporter, takes Allie under her wing, advising Allie on how to build up contacts and how to dress more fashionably. I enjoyed this series debut, although the Scottish dialect had me puzzling over some parts. I look forward to more Allie Burns novels.
Ann Marie
What Happened to the Bennetts by Lisa Scottoline
Funny thing, my group and I get to pick a book every 2 weeks. I picked WHAT HAPPENED TO THE BENNETTS and it's a great book club read!
Debbie
Sad Cypress by Agatha Christie
A return to Agatha Christie, that is always a delight. The title of the book emerges from Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night. Two deaths enter into Hercule Poirot’s investigating. A rich, elderly lady dies and no thought of murder enters the picture. But a second death which involves a young woman and foul play creeps into the picture. The young niece of Mrs. Welman, Elinor Carlisle, falls under the suspicion of murder. And frankly, Elinor appears to gain from the two deaths. Elinor narrates the first and last part of the novel, while Poirot plods through his narrative to Dr. Lord. The presentation of the story provides intrigue and vivid characters. From the first page, Elinor became my favorite character.
Sherri
Anansi Boys by Neil Gaiman
Fantastic novel full of fantasy and otherworldliness.
Rosa
The Ruin by Dervla McTiernan
Set in Galway, Ireland, this novel has two plotlines. Aisling Conroy's boyfriend Jack is found dead one day, apparently having committed suicide. Jack's sister Maude thinks otherwise; she thinks Jack was murdered. Meanwhile Detective Cormac Reilly is assigned to a cold case, to investigate the death of Maude's and Jack's mother, which happened twenty years earlier. This police procedural reminded me of Tana French and Susie Steiner, whose novels I truly enjoy. This one is par with their work. I went along for the ride, through the twists and turns that Detective Reilly endures as he also navigates the politics at the police station. This was unputdownable and fantastic.
Rose
Mr. & Mrs. American Pie by Juliet McDaniel
Maxine Simmons is trying to climb the ladder of high society in Palm Springs. However, she didn't count on her husband's affair and request for a divorce. When she is banned from Palm Springs to AZ, she finds new friends, and ultimately a family, in a local bartender and a young boy and his baby sister. The antics of Maxine and this group of unlikely friends is at times laugh out loud funny, and other times, sweet and endearing. I rooted for Maxine as she came up with a plan to reclaim her status, although she went about it in sneaky and underhanded ways. She is an unlikely heroine, but such a wonderful one!
Rose
A Duke for Diana by Sabrina Jeffries
In 1811, Diana and her sisters are trying to outrun the scandal of their mother leaving their father and running off with her lover, and have begun Elegant Occasions, an events company. When Duke Geoffrey Brookhouse of Grenwood hires them to find a suitable man for his shy sister, Rosy, he puts conditions on their payment plan. What he doesn't bargain for is his desire for Diana. This is a historical romance novel with racy scenes of Diana and Geoffrey. Their initial disdain for one another is quickly shed, along with their clothing! I couldn't quite believe the "secret" that Geoffrey was keeping and loath to admit to anyone. It didn't seem like that big of a deal, especially since he had evidence to help his account of the situation.
Bonnie
Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevon
Unexpectedly GREAT book!!! My book group chose this book and I was not enthusiastic about it. I thought it was all (only) about gaming. No, no, no,- it’s about love, relationships, grief. I will be thinking about this book for a long, long time.
Rose
A Conservation Notebook by Paul Spencer Sochaczewski
This book is extremely important and very timely. Paul worked for the WWF and writes knowledgeably about the issues facing our planet. I enjoyed all the pictures and the cartoons. I enjoyed the personal anecdotes about the things he saw, the animals he encountered, the people in the various countries and their stories. I especially enjoyed the story of the Girl Scout who took a stand. This book brought home that each of us can make a difference. We need to start somewhere - eat less beef, less ice cream, be conscious of our choices, use less water and electricity, understand the impact that your choices have on the world. Animals are losing their habitat due to the commercialism of food products and corporate greed.
Rose
Don't Just Fly: SOAR by Kelly Markey
This is a self-help book to help you in your journey for a good and fulfilling life. It is very spiritual in nature, quoting Scriptures and referencing God and prayer on many occasions. The first part of the book details the authors journey including all her troubles she experienced in marriage, in friendship, in situations which caused her to leave her country. The second part of the book focuses on helping you to transform your life. It provides charts, questions, reflections, and places for introspection. Reading the author's journey made me recognize more clearly how each person's life is very different. She suffered abuse by her first husband, prejudice and racism in her country, criminal encounters, and terrible loss of her friends.
Lucy
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
Best book I've read in years! If you love books about strong women (before their time), I highly recommend this one! There's even a dose of humor as the author tells the story, and a priceless dog.
Claire
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J. K. Rowling
I think this book gets a bad reputation in the fandom, but it has honestly become one of my favorites. I love the drama between the good and evil, and how everything just really boils down to people being people in the end. The evil can love (the Malfoys) and the good can lie and manipulate (Dumbledore). I also love the undertones of fairytale references with the three brothers, the snake pretending to be Ms. Bagshot, and the lore of the Grey Lady. It really helps keep even the most mundane of camping trip feeling magical at all times.
Rose
Immoral Origins: A Suspense Thriller (The Desire Card, Book 1) by Lee Matthew Goldberg
This is a gritty thriller set in NYC in the late 1970s/early 1980s. It is about Jake Barnum, petty thief, who lives with his parents and his younger brother, Emile, who has cerebral palsy. Knowing that his parents are drowning in medical bills for Emile, Jake wants to help. While at a Halloween party, dressed as Robin Hood, he meets a woman disguised as Marilyn Monroe. He becomes involved with Marilyn, and a criminal group called the Cards. The result is violence, drugs, and murder. This is the debut of a new series, and it is raw and graphic. You feel the desperation of Jake and his despair. His love for his brother is refreshing, but the situation feels impossible.
And, oh my gosh - that ending! WOW.
Laura
The Next Ship Home by Heather Webb
The relationship of the different nationalities, the Germans, Italians, Russians, etc. hasn't changed. Interesting to learn about Ellis Island at the turn of the century. The continuing demeaning of woman continues. Has anything changed? Loved the relationship between friends. I do think some of the story could have been skipped. It was longer than it needed to be.
Rose
Breathless by Amy McCulloch
Cecily Wong is a journalist who has been promised an exclusive interview with renowned mountain climber Charles McVeigh. However, there is one condition: Charles won't do the interview until Cecily has summited the Manaslu, the 8th highest peak in the world. Cecilly is anxious due to a previous incident on a mountain. However, she can't ignore the opportunity. The story is terrifying as Cecily begins hearing and seeing things while on the mountain. When a climber dies mysteriously, the terror ratchets up. As the stakes and the climb gets higher, Cecily starts wondering who to trust. The writing was very descriptive allowing you to imagine the bleakness and the danger of the mountain, the necessity to depend on your team, and terror!
Donna
Switchboard Soldiers by Jennifer Chiaverini
The historical book focuses on three women who serve as telephone operators during World War 1. The story follows the call for operators by General Pershing and through their training. The journey to Europe and their various work stations are detailed along with the flu epidemic that is sweeping the world in 1918. The operators need to be able to speak French, and several of the women selected have backgrounds in French or Belgium. The book will strike a chord with history buffs, and many readers will be surprised that an essential crew of soldiers went virtually unrecognized after the war. The book was enjoyable but tended to be long with too much attention to small details.
Rose
19 Yellow Moon Road by Fern Michaels
This case reminded me of the Jeffrey Epstein/Ghislaine Maxwell case where vulnerable women were trafficked. This is a book late in the Sisterhood series, and perhaps if I had read the previous books I would have enjoyed it more. I wasn't a fan of the narration, so that could also have caused me to rate this only 3 stars. In this book, Maggie Spritzer receives a strange message from her friend, Gabby Richardson. When she can't reach Gabby, Maggie grows concerned. Gabby had been feeling sad, and became involved in The Haven, a cult-like commune. However, they won't allow her to leave, and she becomes distrustful, reaching out to Gabby for help. Maggie brings her concern to the Sisterhood, with vast resources, and tracks the criminals.
Karen
The Silenced Women by Frederick Weisel
This is about a young woman who is found murdered on a bench in the park. Detective Eddie Mahler and his VCI teams, which includes Eden Somers, a former FBI analyst, are assigned to the case. They are hampered by the police department and the public to solve this case quickly because a similar cases occur two years before and the case was not solved and the blame was put on Eddie's back. The story will have you on the edge of your seat. I loved this book by a first- time author.
Rose
The Second Life of Mirielle West by Amanda Skenandore
In 1926, Mirielle West is the wife of a famous actor and living in California, but is suffering from the death of her son. When she starts noticing blisters on her skin, she is referred to a hospital in Louisiana. The hospital is a place for those with leprosy. Mirielle is angry and doesn't want to accept the diagnosis. However, Mirielle is given work in the infirmary along the nuns. The patients and staff work together to make the colony a hopeful place, having celebrations and social events. Mirielle desperately missing her two daughters and husband and longs to be home with them. However, lepers are not to be in with the rest of society. As Mirielle begins to make friends and care about the others in the colony, her perspective changes.
Rose
The Wife Before by Shanora Williams
3.5 rounded up to 4 stars. Samira is broke, and her roommate asks her to move out since her boyfriend is moving in. Luckily, Samira has just met and started dating handsome pro golfer Roland Graham. Roland is smitten with Samira, but her brother, Kell, tells her to avoid Roland as he is suspected of killing his first wife, Melanie. Samira doesn't believe it, she wants to trust Roland, but then she finds Melanie's journals, and realizes how twisted things were. This thriller kept me interested up until about 85% into the book, and then things took a turn that I felt was rushed. Otherwise, a good thriller that kept you wondering. However, I did guess the twist about the sisters and what that meant. Pretty obvious to me!
Kathy
Clark and Division by Naomi Hirahara
Good book but I don't know that I was really emotionally invested in the story. I found the story about abortion, perhaps because it is so timely, to be more interesting than the experience of Japanese who were relocated to Chicago.
Rose
The Bodyguard by Katherine Center
Hannah works as a bodyguard, and she is given an assignment to guard Jack Stapleton, a Hollywood actor. Because his mom is ill, and he doesn't want to concern his mother, he tells Hannah that she must pretend to be his girlfriend. Hannah doesn't want to do it, but has to in order to protect Jack. The dialog is quick and snappy, and at times I laughed out loud. Naturally, the two of them are at odds with each other, but that won't do for a romance! I really enjoyed this smart, funny, and emotional rom-com. I will be looking for more from Katherine Center! I enjoyed the audio narration - the reader was great, lots of inflection and emotion in her voice!
Elly
If The Creek Don’t Rise by Leah Weiss
Written in Appalachian dialect, the characters face a tough life. The main character, Sadie Blue, is affected by the many characters Leah Weiss has developed so beautifully. Highly recommend!
Barbara-Ann
The Stranger Inside by Lisa Unger
Several mysteries in one.
Marilyn
I Heard You Paint Houses by Charles Brandt
Fascinating read about Jimmy Hoffa’s cohorts’ life and his disappearance.
Teresa
The Hotel Nantucket by Elin Hilderbrand
Definitely a good choice as a beach read, this is another fun book by this author, set on her hometown island. I always enjoy meeting her new characters, sometimes reconnecting with previous ones, and wondering how she finds time to write if Nantucket is as wonderful as she portrays it! This time she has an eclectic mix of characters ranging from the endearing to the nefarious to the spectral. Very enjoyable.
Darlene
Rose Royal by Nicolas Mathieu
Very good!
Teresa
The Good Left Undone by Adriana Trigiani
Three stars for writing a family saga that brings a region of a Italy alive. The plot is interesting - a woman whose father is lost in WWII, whose stepfather is persona non grata through no fault of his own, and a personality I found very off-putting. I’m not sure why everyone loved Mateda, as she came across to me as an old pain. I was horrified by the attitude of the culture toward illegitimate children - was it THAT awful? What terrible people! The Catholic Church doesn’t come off so well either. The mother-to-be’s reaction to her husband’s loss could have been developed more, and I felt like she skipped over a lot about WWII Italy and the rise of fascism. I enjoyed Lisa Scottoline’s ETERNAL more because she really presented it well.
Dona
The House in the Cerulean Sea by T. J. Klune
An interesting book about the magical children and their teacher who live on an island. They have been ostracized from the people in the mainland town. A gnome, a wyvern, a sprite and a child of the devil and others must show Linus, an orphanage caseworker, that they are being treated well on the island and report back to the Dept. He learns to love them all, especially the teacher. Fantasy, the characters grow on you!!
Cyndi
The Nanny Diaries by Emma McLaughlin and Nicola Kraus
This was an entertaining book, but frustrating at times. The main character let people take advantage of her way too many times! At times I was exhausted by her overthinking of situations and difficulty making decisions.
Ann Marie
The Latecomer by Jean Hanff Korelitz
I liked the story of each character, but the last 80% did it for me!
Peri
His & Hers by Alice Feeney
This thriller had lots of intrigue. The twists and turns of this who-done-it kept my interest and kept me guessing. I felt some areas of the book could have been a little less verbose.
Dianne
The Maid by Nita Prose
Molly, a hotel maid, is charged with murdering a guest of the hotel. Her friends help her prove her innocence. The author does an outstanding job with the tone of the narration. Molly, who has special needs, narrates the story.
Muriel
The Edge of Summer by Viola Shipman
The best part about Wade Rouse’s books (aka Shipman) is Wade himself. He seems like the kindest, most positive person one could ever hope to know. He puts himself totally into his books with lots of observations about life and good lessons to think about. From my perspective "showing” by the actions of the characters instead of so much introspection and “telling” might make for a stronger story. The first 100 pages of this book seemed tedious to me until the main character reached Michigan and started interacting and conversing with more people. Wade and I both love Michigan, and one learns a lot about the Saugatuck area. The reader also learns some interesting things about buttons. Wade’s books are uplifting, which I appreciate.
Melinda
Beautiful World, Where Are You by Sally Rooney
Two college-age women and their boyfriends finding their way in the world. Really good read. I really enjoyed this book!!
Kay
West With Giraffes by Lynda Rutledge
It was a trip of a lifetime and a lifeline for young 18-year-old Woody Nickel. At age 105 he is determined to write it down to tell his story to the daughter of "Red" whom he met on this long-ago trek. Woody escapes his dust bowl home in the 30s to join up with his only relative, Cuz, on the East coast but everything is shattered when an historic hurricane occurs. Woody is fascinated by two giraffes who have landed in America to be taken across country to the San Diego Zoo. This is his story!
Maryanne
The Hawley Book of the Dead by Chrysler Szarlan
Intrigue, mystery and supernatural along with great character development. A fun read.
Cindy
Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt
A warm story of an older woman and her "friend" the octopus as fate is about to bring her something her heart hopes for.
Alina
The Lindbergh Nanny by Mariah Fredericks
A fresh perspective on the 1932 ill-fated kidnapping of Anne and Charles Lindbergh's toddler. The main protagonist is Betty Gow, the baby's nanny. The book appears to be well researched and characters are effectively presented. The book kept my interest throughout.
Linda
Rhapsody by Mitchell James Kaplan
This historical novel is about Katherine Swift, a gifted musician, who is dazzled upon hearing "Rhapsody in Blue." She meets the composer, George Gershwin, and a 10-year love affair follows. I thought these two central characters were self-absorbed - not very likable. But Kaplan's writing brings to life the Jazz Age in New York City. And lately Gershwin's tunes are my "ear worms."
Sheree
The Blame Game by Sanddi Jones
I thought it kept my attention, but I found it unbelievable how involved she kept getting into the lives of her patients! It kept me turning the pages to see what was going to happen next.
Sherri
A Feeling of Home by Susan Anne Mason
Predictable, clean novel. Interesting premise and #3 in Redemption's Light Series. Did make me want to read the other two. I like the tension build-up in problem solving and the persistence of the characters. 1940's Toronto setting with several class crossovers. Would like to read others in the series, though this was easy enough to understand as a stand-alone.
Cindee
Finlay Donovan is Killing it by Elle Cosimano
If you feel like a mystery with a bit of lighthearted laughter thrown in, this is the perfect book. I enjoyed the two main characters and their bumbling antics.
Cindee
Billy Summers by Stephen King
I loved this story that is actually several stories within a story. King doesn't disappoint with his suspense twists and turns. I rooted for Billy to have a normal life with friends throughout the whole book.
Charlotte
The Lincoln Highway by Amor Towles
Wonderful book but I did not care for the ending. I didn't think Emmett would do that.
Suzanne
Sparring Partners by John Grisham
John Grisham is my favorite author and I would give this 5 stars except this is novella and I would like a whole book of each of these three stories. Of course the writing is superior. You will like all three stories but maybe wish they were longer.
Sharon
State of Terror by Hillary Rodham Clinton and Louise Penny
Unfortunately, this sounded almost like a report on the current state of the country and it did truly did bring about a state of terror for me. Well written, characters believable, situations all too believable! Could hardly put it down so it was a two-day read!
Barbara
The Only Woman in the Room by Marie Benedict
I was not aware of the real story of Heady Lamar. She was so much more than just a pretty faced movie star! I bristled at the thought of the sexist male attitude toward her efforts to help end the war. Each time I pick up my cell phone I think of her amazing contributions to science.
Tessa
The Wedding Girl by Madeleine Wickham
Milly is engaged to Simon, the son of the immensely wealthy Harry Pinnacle. But Milly has a huge secret that is likely to derail all her mother’s plans for the “wedding of the century.” I didn’t like either Milly or Simon, but I still found the book entertaining. It was a quick, fast, chick-lit romantic escape.
Francisca
West Side Rising by Char Miller
Subtitle: How San Antonio's 1921 Flood Devastated a City and Sparked a Latino Environmental Justice Movement. I grew up in San Antonio’s West Side and witnessed many a flood in our neighborhood. This book explores not only the results of the city’s founding in a flood plain, but the political decisions – motivated by class and racial prejudice – that ensured that the areas poorest citizens would continue to suffer for centuries despite contributing tax dollars to help the wealthy stay dry. And how, a group of those West Side residents, fueled by yet another flood, marshaled their collective political power to achieve major changes.
Kay
Anne of Green Gables by L. M. Montgomery
We decided to do some light reading this summer. Delightful!
Rose
Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin
Sam sees Sadie in a crowded subway station in Boston, after years apart. Sadie and Sam first met when they were very young, as pre-teens. Sadie's sister is in the hospital for treatment, and Sam is there due to a car crash and the subsequent injuries. They bond over video games, but when it comes to light that Sadie was logging service hours while visiting Sam, he feels a betrayal of her friendship. However, when they meet again, Sadie asks Sam to review a game she has created. In doing so, Sam and Sadie are brought back together. Their collaboration along with Sam's roommate and guidance from Sadie's teacher/married lover, jolts them into stardom. They become extremely successful, but with success comes tragedy.
Cheryl
The Four Winds by Kristin Hannah
A very excellent book. Really enjoyed this book a lot.
Sherri
Anansi Boys by Neil Gaiman
Gaiman weaves a world of gods, murderers, ghosts, and spiders and makes it all come together. Outstanding!
Janet
The Cornwalls Vanish by James Patterson and Brendan DuBois
I can see this book becoming an action thriller movie.
PJ
Gangsters vs. Nazis: How Jewish Mobsters Battled Nazis in WW2 Era America by Michael Benson
What an amazing time in history when the Jewish mobsters went after the Nazis in the 1930s! This is a very well-researched and well-written history of the Jewish mobsters standing up for those that couldn't stand up for themselves. The innocents on the streets minding their own business being attacked for no other reason than they were Jewish. The book reads like a novel with real people that fought anti-Semitism and the German American Bund groups. One of the best parts of the book is that the author Michael Benson researched what happened to all the heroes after the war. I highly recommend this book to anyone with any interest in WWII.
Rose
Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt
I absolutely loved this book! It is a story of love and compassion and searching for your heart and your home. Tova is the cleaning lady at the Sowell Bay Aquarium. She loves to clean and keep things tidy. After her husband, Will, died, she needed a distraction. She also continues to mourn her 18-year-old son, Erik, who died suddenly and mysteriously over 30 years earlier in a boating accident. Tova doesn't believe Erik would have killed himself, but she doesn't have any explanation for his death. Marcellus is a Giant Pacific Octopus who speaks to the reader. He explains that he has been living in captivity at the aquarium, and he becomes friendly with Tova after she shows him kindness. Marcellus is a true friend.
Tessa
Legacy by Nora Roberts
A mother-daughter team that produces fitness and yoga videos, with sidelines of clothing, shoes, etc. are threatened by a sicko who writes death threats in the form of “love poems.” There’s a slow-burning romance with a good guy to distract everyone from the psycho out there. The thriller part happens fast and furious in the last fifty pages, but the 350 pages before that are a slog.
Marilyn
Sweet Greeks by Ann Flesor Beck
An amazing chronological account of Gus Flesnor's arrival in the USA and his perseverance to improve his life and open a business that still stands on Main St. in a small Illinois community. This book describes an "emigre" experience with chain immigration, networking, resistance, entrepreneurship by which a family became candy makers one shop at a time. The author has done extensive research and is a third-generation Greek confectioner, who with her sister, co-owns and operates Fresnor's Candy Kitchen in Tuscola, IL, a small town that is re-inventing itself.
John
'Tis the Season Murder by Leslie Meier
This is the heartwarming story of Christmastime at Tinker’s Cove. Everyone takes part in the town’s production of "A Christmas Carol" and spreads good cheer!
Rose
Gangsters vs. Nazis: How Jewish Mobsters Battled Nazis in WW2 Era America by Michael Benson
This is an exploration of the uptick in sympathy in America towards Hitler and his nationalist movement against Jews. It shows how propaganda and half-truths/lies can drive hatred and spur movements. So many were involved, including many famous names. It is frightening to see that this same trend is moving forward due to the lies and hatred whipped up at this time. Such a sad thing that people don't learn history and follow madmen.
Sean
Ritual by Mo Hayder
This has been my least favorite of the Jack Caffery series so far. First off, after leaving on a somewhat cliffhanger last book, we jump ahead four years. An odd choice to me. Then this novel was a little too coincidental. Too many things lined up too easily to be believed. I also thought Hayder's imagery in the final conflict was hard to follow/picture. The book still contained Caffery and his self-destructive self. I enjoyed the new character of Flea but her back story was a bit much. Overall, a decent crime book with too many puzzle pieces being corner pieces.
Julie
Let It Snow by Maureen Johnson, John Green and Lauren Myracle
Three short stories told from three different points of view that take place on Christmas Eve in a Gracetown (a small Midwestern town). The first story, "The Jubilee Express" by Maureen Johnson is about a girl named Jubilee who gets stuck on a train on her way to Florida. The second story, "A Cheertastic Christmas Miracle" by John Green is about three friends, Tobin, Duke and JP, who receive a phone call on Christmas Eve from Keun. Keen works at Waffle House and convinces them to come as soon as possible because cheerleaders are stranded at the Waffle House. The third story, "The Patron Saint of Pigs" by Lauren Myracle is about Jeb and Addie.
Julie
The Quiche of Death by M. C. Beaton
This is the first book in the Agatha Raisin mystery series. Agatha retires from being a very successful PR specialist and decides to buy a cottage in the quiet village of Carsley. Unfortunately, she enters a quiche baking contest and the judge if the contest, Mr. Cummings-Browne, ends up dead after eating a slice of her quiche. Agatha decides to clear her name by solving the murder. Normally, I am not that fond of mysteries (after getting burned out from years of reading Agatha Christie's, Lillian Braun, Sandra Brown, etc.) but I have to admit I found the story enjoyable to read. I am looking forward to reading more books in this series.
Julie
The Love Season by Elin Hilderbrand
Definitely not one of her best novels. The story takes place over a course of one weekend on the island of Nantucket. Marguerite has become a hermit after the death of her best friend fourteen years ago. We learn through flashbacks that Marguerite had a relationship with Porter whom she meets while vacationing in Paris. Candace is Porter's younger sister who quickly becomes Marguerite's best friend. Candace ends up marrying Daniel and they have a beautiful daughter, Renata. Unfortunately, Porter ends up cheating on Marguerite and later on marries another woman. Now the big mystery surrounding Candace's death and Marguerite's reason for becoming a hermit is weak at best.
Julie
The Kingdoms of Savannah by George Dawes Green
I received a free advanced reading copy from the publisher in exchange for a review of this novel.
After reading it I could see this book being adapted into a movie. Stoney is the local archeologist who goes missing, and her friend Luke ends up dead in an abandoned apartment building that has been set afire. Morgana owns a detective agency and has been hired to represent Archibald Guzman (i.e. Goose) who has been charged with torching his own apartment for the insurance money. Morgana and her children (Ransom and Willou) and her granddaughter, Jaq, all pitch in to help solve the mystery. I absolutely loved the mystery as well as the historical references, especially after reading the historical notes at the end of the book.
Rose
The Spanish Daughter by Lorena Hughes
Part historical fiction, part murder mystery, THE SPANISH DAUGHTER is a tale of a family in turmoil after the patriarch of the family, and head of a cacao plantation in Ecuador, dies. Puri, the eldest daughter, travels from Spain with her husband Cristobal, to meet thesecond family of her father. These siblings are a surprise to Puri. On the ship, Puri is attacked, and when her husband tries to defend her, tragedy strikes. Now, Puri has to determine who wanted her dead. As she meets the family, she discovers that they each have secrets. Additionally, the foreman of the plantation, Martin, tempts her and she struggles with her feelings. Puri does what she needs to do to save both herself and her family. Easy read. Interesting history.
Laura
A Million Things by Emily Spurr
I guess knowing the ending at the beginning was okay. It was a difficult read as it's from the perspective of a ten year old. Are people so stupid to believe a ten year old that her mom is not there as she was "at a retreat"? Difficult to read and unbelievable story.
Robin
Where the Sky Begins by Rhys Bowen
I fell in love with the characters in this story. Rhys Bowen filled the pages of this book with hope, love, and the chance for new beginnings. The story is beautifully told. The reader can’t help but fall in love with Josie, as she takes charge of her life, and becomes a shining beacon of hope to all those around her.
Elizabeth
Peace Like a River by Leif Enger
Leif Enger’s writing is, in a word, delightful. A simple story of a boy and his younger sister and father searching for his outlaw brother becomes so much more in Enger's hands.
Linda
The Scot Who Loved Me by Gina Conkle
Lovers before the rebellion, Will MacDonald and Anne Fletcher MacDonald Neville find themselves together again. Anne is searching for the gold that belongs to Scotland and stolen by England. She learns it is hidden in the house of the Countess of Denton, a woman who had taken in Will for a short time. Will had meant to go to the colonies to join his father but he gets involved in Anne’s plot. Since they have found each other again, he vows to never let her go.
Linda
A Scot Is Not Enough by Gina Conkle
After Will MacDonald and Anne Neville escape to Scotland, it is up to Cecelia MacDonald to find the ancient dagger that had been stolen from the chieftan and restore it to him. She meets barrister Alexander Sloane who has been tasked to find the dirt on Cecelia. Alexander falls in love with Cecelia and the only dirt he finds and reports to Fielding is the dirt she gets on her while working in the community garden. The Countess of Denton is after the women in the league and focuses on Cecelia. Not only did Anne steal the gold that was destined for Scotland but she also took incriminating evidence that could find the Countess guilty of treason.
Linda
Caledonia by Sherry V. Ostroff
Anna Isaac met Alain MacArthur when he came to talk with her father about investing in a new colony to be set up by Scottish investors. Her father noticed her infatuation with the handsome Scotsman but told Anna she was a Jewess and would never be accepted by the MacArthur family. He had her betrothed to his business partner, an older French man. She went to Alain for help and he told her she would never have to marry against her will. He saved her and married her. She keeps a journal which is found and read by one of her descendants and the book goes back and forth between 1696 and 2005. Caledonia is the name of a planned Scottish colony in Central America that never came to be. Thanks Goodreads for a great book!
Linda
Never Look Back by Mary Burton
FBI agent Jerrod Ramsey arrives in Nashville to assist in the investigation of a serial rapist/killer when DNA analysis found in a van comes to his attention. The DNA is linked to ten murders across the country. He partners with Melina Shepard, agent with Tennessee Bureau of Investigations. She posed as a prostitute when the man tried to grab her into his van and saw how it was outfitted with restraints. As they look for the man, another murder occurs. This time, the woman is strangled in her home and her left ring finger has been cut off. They now have two murderers to find.
Linda
James Patterson by James Patterson: The Stories of My Life by James Patterson
Anecdotes remembered by Patterson about various stages of his life from a childhood in Newburgh, NY to an advertising career in New York City. He started writing short stories and then novels that turned into best sellers and movies. He lost his first love Jane Blanchard at 39. He dated and married Sue Solie. He talks about his “ideas” file and his use of cowriters. As Patterson says, “I have a lot of stories to tell and need help in telling them”. One drawback I read was where he called himself “the best selling writer in the world” – egotistical!!
Linda
Escape by James Patterson and David Ellis
Detective Billy Harney goes to arrest a notorious gang leader and his moneyman when he sees a suspect he has been looking for. He was after the man for abducting a young girl when the man ran out of a house and blew it up. The girl survived but Billy's partner Carla Griffin did not. That made it personable and Billy is not about to let the man go. As is most of Patterson's books, there is more than one story that all come together at the end. Billy investigates the murder of a woman who was killed by Russians sent by her husband. He is an investor who was cheating his clients and his wife found out about it and was going to blow the whistle. The man is arrested and put in the same detention center as the gang leader and his money man.
Rose
The Secret Life of Albert Entwistle by Matt Cain
Albert Entwistle is almost 65 and is now being forced into retirement from the postal service. Once he hears the news, Albert decides that he needs to take stock of his life and right some wrongs. Years ago, Albert had loved a boy named George, but it was a forbidden love. In the 70s, gay men were condemned and ridiculed. Now, although he is scared, Albert takes the first step towards coming out to his co-workers. He reaches out to some of the people on his route, and together they take charge of their relationships and make steps to decide to go for love. This is a good story of facing your truths. It is a shame how people in the 70s treated people for their sexuality. In the 2020s we are getting better at recognizing love is love.
Julie
Broken by Jenny Lawson
Hilarious! I absolutely loved all her stories including the laugh-out-loud to the serious heartbreaking ones. Here are some of my favorites: Losing her shoes while wearing them (yes, I can relate). The reasons for not coming to your party (so true). Editing is hell (funny). Business ideas to pitch on Shark Tank (too funny).
Rose
The End of Getting Lost by Robin Kirman
This novel is billed as suspenseful, and I didn't get a suspenseful feeling at all. Yes, there were secrets and deception, and each member of the couple was being deceptive, but I didn't get a feeling of suspense. Gina and Duncan are both artistic. Gina, a dancer, has been raised in wealth. Duncan is a musician, and his financial situation isn't as positive. Gina's father and Duncan's mother both caution their children to not get involved. However, Gina and Duncan are in love and decide to marry. Then, when Gina falls and hits her head, losing her memory, Duncan decides to create a story about their love. But, Gina is also creating a story.
Bonnie
The Sentence by Louise Erdrich
This is the first fiction I’ve read that incorporates the covid pandemic as well as the killing of George Floyd. I am thankful that the author shows respect for the two topics. I appreciate that the main characters are native Americans.
Rose
The Wedding Dress Sewing Circle by Jennifer Ryan
In 1942, war was raging in England and the rations were in force. Engaged women were unable to find white fabric to use for their wedding dress. So, Grace, engaged to be married, finds her mother's wedding dress in the attic, she takes it to the village sewing circle. Cressida, a designer from London, who has returned to the village due to the bombing in London, determines that they can remake the dress to hide some of the damage from age. This is not only a historical story about the hardships of the lives of people during the war, but also a love story, and a story of friendship and community. Wedding dress shortages were common and people donating their dresses and having them remade and used by community members was necessary.
Rose
Real Easy by Marie Rutkoski
This is a quick read. It is a thriller set in the world of strip clubs. Samantha/Ruby loves her boyfriend's daughter, Rosie, and wishes that Rosie was her own. When a new stripper gets in trouble at the club, Samantha offers to drives her home. On their way, the car gets rammed from behind, and Lady Jade is killed, while Samantha is taken prisoner. The cops get involved, but they have too many leads and possible suspects. Holly, one of the detectives, is dealing with a loss of her own, and she is flawed. But, she gains the help of another stripper, Georgia, to assist in the case. Georgia keeps her eyes open and provides info to Holly. Frightening look at the world of psychologically damaged people and what it leads them to do.
Claire
Og-Grim-Dog by Jamie Edmundson
I picked this book up because I was looking for a quick, light read and thought I could get a few bonus points. For such a short book I was amazed at how quickly it became my favorite read of the summer! As funny as the characters were, they still had heart and really captured the found family feeling of a Dungeons and Dragons game as it follows your standard campaign party with the addition of a three headed ogre as the narrator. I even found myself getting sucked into the mystery of the plot, collecting clues to see if I could put it together faster than Grim. I can't say enough about how well executed this unique concept was and how many laughs it brought me. I can't wait to pick up the next couple in the series.
shelly
The Best Is Yet to Come by Debbie Macomber
Hope Godwin needs a change after the death of her twin brother, which she still finds hard to accept. She gets a position as a teacher and guidance counselor in Oceanside, Washington, at a high school. She is trying to keep busy as distractions are what she needs. Even though school keeps her busy, she has time to think, and her landlord/neighbor suggests she volunteer for a few hours at an animal shelter. While volunteering, she meets Shadow, a rescue dog everyone seems to have given up on, but Hope believes he is worth saving. Unfortunately, Cade Lincoln, Jr., had also suffered injuries when he was a marine that was not outwardly noticeable.
Instead of going to jail for things he has done, Cade has to volunteer and go to counseling.
Rose
Overkill by Sandra Brown
Zach Bridger is a former NFL star and is divorced from Rebecca Pratt. She is a loose cannon, addicted to partying hard. When Rebecca is deprived of oxygen during a party, and lays in a hospital, Zach is responsible for carrying out her wishes. Her parents are fighting him. Now, 4 years later, the man responsible for her condition has been released from jail. Kate, the prosecutor, comes to Zach to ask if he is going to make the decision to remove Rebecca from life support so that she can prosecute Eban for murder. Naturally, as in any Sandra Brown book, there is sexual tension between the two main characters and a lot of danger, and good vs. evil.
I listened to it, and the narrator was male, highlighting the voice of Zach. Formulaic Brown.
Lynn
Marlow Murder Club by Robert Thorogood
Not as good as I had hoped.
Gerry
Any Other Family by Eleanor Brown
4-1/2 stars for a fascinating (and realistic, I think) look at a family formed by the open adoption of four siblings by three different sets of parents, each living in their own home but also coming together for weekly dinners, holidays, and other occasions. Interesting characters, realistic issues, and very real dialog (both internal and voiced) made for a completely engaging read.
Gerry
Cast Into Doubt by Patricia MacDonald
This was a very well-plotted mystery that kept me intrigued right to the end. Shelby gifted her daughter and son-in-law a cruise along with an offer to care for their son while they vacationed. But a call from son-in-law Rob telling her Chelsea had disappeared, apparently falling overboard, throws Shelby’s life into turmoil, and she’s determined to find out just what happened to her daughter and why. With numerous possible (and plausible) suspects, the mystery was sustained until the satisfying conclusion.
Gerry
The Many Daughters of Afong Moy by Jamie Ford
This is a tough book to review. A mix of historical fiction, science fiction, and pure imagination, it was confusing at times as it moved back and forth in time, but once I decided to suspend disbelief and just go with the flow, it proved to be a fascinating thought experiment. There were many sad examples of oppression and abuse suffered by each of the female characters, but also redemption in the final events of the story. The novel’s central concept of inherited trauma is an interesting one to explore. Very different from THE HOTEL ON THE CORNER OF BITTER AND SWEET by the same author, but just as worthwhile.
Gerry
Meet Me at the Museum by Anne Youngson
3-1/2 stars for this epistolary novel inspired by the Tollund Man, a bog body unearthed in a raised peat bog in Denmark in 1950. Composed of letters between an Englishwoman who had long planned to visit the museum where the Tollund Man’s remains are displayed, and the curator of that museum, it's a sweet and gentle story with engaging characters. Tina Hopgood is a 60-something woman who has grown disenchanted with her life. Anders Larsen is a widower of similar age who feels no hope for his future since his wife’s passing. They begin to bond over their fascination with the Tollund Man, and their correspondence gradually deepens in both introspection and intimacy, until an unexpected event forces them to consider their values and dreams.
Gerry
Daughters of Smoke and Fire by Ava Homa
4-1/2 stars for this compelling (and at times horrifying) tale of a family of Kurds in Iraq and Iran. The struggles of this stateless people, whose homeland (Kurdistan) was separated by colonial powers into four different newly-created nations (Turkey, Iraq, Iran, and Syria) following the defeat of the Ottoman Empire in 1918-1920, are clearly outlined in this novel, which follows the coming-of-age of Leila, a young Kurdish/Iranian girl, and her brother Chia in the late twentieth century. While all in this group suffered from prejudice and social restrictions, conditions for women in the Islamic state of Iran at this time were particularly harsh. Fiction inspired by actual events made for a compelling read.
Kimberley
See Something by Carol J. Perry
A true crime spree and murder mystery lead the reader on a great read. Our main character, Lee, and a fun cast of characters are determined to solve this Salem mystery. The gentleman cat, O’Ryan, is also a great helper. The mystery novel includes some delicious recipes the reader may want to try. It’s a fun, fast read and I enjoyed the ol’ pocket book styled publication.
Kimberley
L. A. Weather: A novel by Maria Amparo Escandon
For one year, this novel follows a Jewish/Mexican American family residing in California. The family’s shenanigans, drama, health, marriages and survival are unknowingly affected by the weather. Upon reflection, it is breathtaking the personal events that do occur in one calendar year and greatly change our path; this novel takes the reader on their own journey. It is a great length and the reader is hopeful for the family’s year to follow.
Beth
Mercury Pictures Presents by Anthony Marra
Anthony Marra‘s A CONSTELLATION OF VITAL PHENOMENA was so wonderful that I read his second book, THE TSAR OF LOVE AND TECHNO, without bothering to first read its reviews. So I was disappointed; it did not measure up to CONSTELLATION. Still, when his most recent book, MERCURY PICTURES PRESENTS, came out, I bought it. And, again, it doesn’t measure up to CONSTELLATION. “Fool me twice, shame on me." If you want to read MERCURY PICTURES PRESENTS because you loved CONSTELLATION, be warned that you will be disappointed.
Rose
Treason by Stuart Woods
Holly Barker, Secretary of State, and Stone's lover, is trying to decide whether or not to announce her campaign for president. Before she can do so, she has to determine if there is a mole in the department. Her deputy secretary, Maclean McIntosh, has informed her that an intercept had the same language he used in a speech delivered for the agency. Stone, who is a special advisor to Lance Cabot, CIA director, is invited to attend a party in which a Russian oligarch is attending. He continues to cross paths with the Russian, as well as others. Suspecting they may be spies, Stone must do his best to avoid tipping the CIA's hand too early, but also to save the country from secrets being given to the Russians. Formulaic Woods.
Tessa
The Book of Magic by Alice Hoffman
3.5 stars. I came late to the Hoffman fan club. I’m not terribly interested in reading about witches and magic, and I had seen the movie of PRACTICAL MAGIC, which I thought was terrible. But I finally read the first in the series last year and I was pleasantly surprised by how much I liked it. So here I am again. What I really like about the books is the relationships between the generations of women. Hoffman moves back and forth between various characters. She does this quite well, keeping the story flowing and the reader turning pages.
Francisca
Her Royal Spyness by Rhys Bowen
Book #1 in the “Her Royal Spyness” mystery series introduces us to Lady Victoria Georgina Charlotte Eugenie, daughter to the Duke of Glen Garry and Rannoch, and thirty-fourth in line to the throne, and commonly known as Georgie. There’s little actual spying involved, rather it’s a typical cozy mystery in which Georgie tries to clear her name, and her brother’s, after a body is found in her bathtub! There’s a host of upper-class friends/family to round out the cast, and, best of all, her maternal grandfather, a retired cop. A fun, fast, read.
Mary Anne
Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner
I read this book because I have been following the success of the author's band, Japanese Breakfast. Being a songwriter must transfer to other forms of writing, as her writing style is natural and engrossing. This book covers her life before the most recent events (nominated for two Grammys!), and of course is mostly about losing her mother. She has had a very interesting life so far, and I enjoyed learning about it.
Rose
Hit List by Stuart Woods
In the most recent installment, Stone is handed a list of names, and his name is on the list. He finds out that it is a hit list, but he doesn't know why he is on the list. As people start dying, Stone and Dino become more concerned, and try to outrun the assassin, but he seems to be one step ahead of them. They continue to play cat and mouse, traveling to various places.
Again, a lot of gratuitous sex with multiple women, extreme wealth, shopping and purchasing everything, while eating extravagantly. And, Holly Barker is finalizing the last days of her campaign for president. I have just about given up on these books, but with Woods' death this year, I plan to finish the series.
Richard N B
Lightning Men by Thomas Mullen
3.5 stars. Book Two in the Darktown series continues the story of a newly integrated Atlanta police force in the 1950s. There’s a lot going on here from the basic police procedural involving the crimes the officers are trying to solve, to the racism on the force, to the ugly and dangerous tactics of the Klan, to some personal marital issues, to political corruption. It certainly captured my attention. Mullen crafts a tight thriller, with complex characters, and a couple of stunning scenes.
Rose
Shakeup by Stuart Woods
Formulaic Stone Barrington book. In this volume, Holly Barker is inaugurated as president. While attending the inauguration, a woman is murdered in Stone’s hotel suite. Suspicion lands on the husband of the murderer, as well as the head of the DC police department. As usual, the book has Stone as a sex god, having sex with at least four women in this one. Honestly, that is getting so old.
Rose
Double Jeopardy by Stuart Woods
Stone finds out that his wayward cousins, Enos and Ebon Stone, convicted of killing their parents years earlier have been paroled by the governor of Maine. They wish to take control of the family home, so Stone arranges to have it purchased before they can. He then places a couple in the home to obscure that Stone is the owner. However, the twins purchase the house across the street and then continue to wreak havoc on the town. This book introduces an interesting new character, a young law student named Carly, who is whip smart. There is a bit of lawlessness going on in this book, on Stone's part. That is somewhat unusual.
Sherri
Heroes for My Son by Brad Meltzer
Inspiring, concise look at people, famous and not, that the author selected as people with life lessons to be "heroes" for his son (and next 2 children). I liked the presentation and the way to add your own "heroes" to the list for yourself and/or your children and to share with others. Many of the selections included details that the individuals are not known for but are inspiring and the non-famous ones show that even our seemingly small actions (often unintentional) can be influential - making us all heroes (my thoughts not the author's).
Laura
The Maid by Nita Prose
Good story. Great characters. I enjoyed learning about all of them. I especially liked Molly. I enjoyed reading her thoughts on things and how she always wanted to do good. The first half of the book was a bit slow; however, the ending was spectacular. I would recommend it with the a word to not stop. It's worth all the plot development at the beginning to get to the end.
Rose
Class Act by Stuart Woods
Stone gets involved with a woman who is the girlfriend of a Mafia goon. Additionally, one of Stone's former client has requested Stone's help. There is a lot of gore in this one. Also, Stone is once again involved in something illegal - in order to preserve his own life. However, this is certainly a new direction in the last book or so - for Stone to break the law. This one was a bit interesting.
Rose
Foul Play by Stuart Woods
Stone rescues a man who is being beaten and kicked. The man becomes a client, a very wealthy client. As Stone later learns, Russians purchased the man's company, but not the patents, an oversight. From there, Stone becomes involved in a dangerous corporate takeover.
During the corporate dealings, Stone becomes even more fabulously wealthy, which is just insane. The conversations between Dino and Stone are becoming more and more silly. Series almost at an end!
Rose
Criminal Mischief by Stuart Woods
In this installment of the long-running series, Stone becomes involved with people who have fallen prey to a man running a Ponzi scheme. The chase for this man takes them to a sultanate and a lot of deals. Again, crazy wealth and insatiable sex appetites. Can't wait until the series is finished.
Rose
A Safe House by Stuart Woods
Stone is asked by Lance Cabot, CIA Director, to provides safe house for Jenna Jacoby, ex-wife of Senator Warren Slade. Slade wants Jenna dead, and will stop at nothing to accomplish this.
Quick read.
Elise
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
I found this to be a unique story about women fighting for rights in the 1950s and 60s. This dashes romantic notions about housewives in that era and shows the true struggles that so many women faced in different aspects of their daily lives. It felt like an inspirational book instead of a heavy read and I really enjoyed it!
Elise
True Biz by Sara Novic
Four stars for audiences including special education teachers, SLPs and book clubs; 3.5 stars as a general escape read. This novel was extremely educational about the deaf community and so many of the nuances that the hearing world never considers. This book opened my eyes and has stayed with me.
Rose
The Last Goodnight by Kat Martin
This is a "romantic thriller" about a female private investigator set to investigate the murder of a ranch owner's wife 8 years earlier. Kade's wife's car was recently found, so the murder is fresh on the mind of Kade. He hires Ellie to find his wife's killer. I think it would have been much better if the author didn't have Kade and Ellie lusting for each other every single time they saw the other one. No one is that hot for another person that they can't think of anything else while in the presence of the other person. It was just ridiculous. I would like to read a book where the man is attracted to the woman for her personality, her intelligence, her career--- instead of her perky breasts and sexy rear. Skip it.
Kay
The Lies I Tell by Julie Clark
This plot kept me captivated with the switching back and forth between the two women characters: the con artist and the hunter. But, all was not as perceived at the onset with a surprise but very satisfying ending!
Kay
The Edge of Summer by Viola Shipman
Sutton Douglas grew up with a loving mother who kept her past a secret. When her mother dies, she is emotionally devastated by her loss, driven to follow the threads of her story to Michigan to slowly unravel the mystery. In the community of Douglas Sutton finds a sense of belonging, the love of a good man and family.
Richard N B
Pied Piper by Nevil Shute
An elderly British man, John Howard, goes on holiday to France in April 1940, and must cut his visit short when Germany begins the invasion. He agrees to take two British children back to England with him, expecting a two-day journey, but… This is a road trip and a suspense thriller with an undercurrent of family relationships and love. On the way he will encounter other refugee children, and of course, he takes them with him as well. Mr. Howard is a marvelous character. Courage does not always involve fighting the enemy. Mr. Howard and Nicole display the kind of quiet courage that comes from a deep conviction that what they are doing is correct, and a strong faith that, somehow, they will prevail.
Sandra K.
The Perfect Assassin: A Doc Savage Thriller by James Patterson and Brian Setts
An excellent book to start off a new James Patterson series. Thank you to Grand Central Publishing for the opportunity to read this book prior to publication.
Linda
The Book Woman’s Daughter by Kim Michele Richardson
Honey Lovett is the daughter of Cussy Lovett, who for years was the pack horse librarian delivering books to the people who lived back in the hollows of the Appalachian mountains of Kentucky. Her mother was jailed for the blue color of her skin. Honey applies for the job and takes over her mother’s old route. Some of the people fear the blue color of her skin that is caused by a medical condition and harbor old fears and superstitions, but most appreciate the delivery of reading material. Honey wanted her emancipation to prevent her from being sent to the infamous reform school and the judge granted her request. I had never heard of the blue people in Kentucky until reading this book, but found it to be true.
Linda
Dark Roads by Chevy Stevens
Hailey McBride goes to live with her aunt when her father is killed, but Lana’s husband is a controlling policeman who refuses to let Hailey have her freedom. He tells her he wants her to be safe as so many women have been killed along the Cold Creek Highway. She finds nude photos of women on his computer and knows he has cameras hidden. She has to get away and fakes her death. Most think she is the latest victim of the killer but Vaughn has his suspicions. When Hailey finds the body of her friend Amber, she remembers Vaughn saying he saw them at the lake and wonders if he is the Cold Creek Killer.
Linda
22 Seconds by James Patterson and Maxine Paetro
The San Francisco Police Department hears a rumor about a truckload of weapons and drugs coming into the U.S. from Mexico to be delivered to buyers at designated locations. A task force between SFPD and the FBI is set up but ATF wants in and ATF Chief Fred Braun is angry when left out. Detective Lindsay Boxer and Lieutenant Jackson Brady are set up by her informant and a gun battle takes place where the CI and his associates are killed. Lindsay is threatened and stalked by Anthony Ruffo and his pals. He is in jail for assaulting Cindy Thomas, a friend of Lindsay. If what Alejandro Vega tells Joe Molinari is true, Ruffo will be spending the rest of his life in prison instead of a law office.
Linda
Hard Landing by Edie James
Kelli Spencer has been harassed by a stalker who thinks she is the one meant for him. When her dad drives her car and wrecks, the mechanic finds the brake lines cut. It sounds like something her stalker would do but he’s in jail. Then she learns he was bailed out. Bob Spencer is determined to keep his daughter safe and brings in Jack Reese as her bodyguard. Jack is part of a team of former SEAL’s who are now private security operatives. She thinks she is safe but the bad guy is still out there. Thanks to Goodreads for a copy of this book.
Linda
The Kindred Spirits Supper Club by Amy E. Reichert
The main character of Sabrina Monroe ruined the book for me. She was tormented in high school by a bully and now works for this person but rather than stand up for herself, she looks down at her feet and takes it. You want to shake her and say "Wake up!" Women in her family have the ability to see and talk to ghosts who are left in our world until something they need to do is completed. Sabrina sees Molly, a ghost who wants to know what happened to the man she loved who disappeared one day and never returned. Ray Jasper meets and falls for Sabrina and sees her talking to someone but no one is there. Whatever is going on, he's okay with it because he has fallen in love with Sabrina. He's too nice and she's too flaky!
Rose
The Choice by Alex Lake
Matt is returning home one day with his three children in the car. He stops off at the store, and due to the new virus, he doesn't want to expose them, so he leaves them in the back seat. He grabs a few items, checking to see if the kids are behaving through the store window. As he checks out, he looks again, and the car is gone! Then he receives texts telling him that the children have been kidnapped. He runs home to his wife, Annabelle, and tells her. The story then goes back and forth, bringing up details of past relationships and things in their lives that may have caused someone to take their children. Then the ransom demand is made, and Annabelle and Matt need to make a choice. This is an interesting and enjoyable thriller.
