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December 2, 2022 - December 16, 2022

 

This contest period's winners were Jayme G., Linda F. and Susan C., who each received a copy of DANGEROUS BUSINESS by Jane Smiley and THE PASSENGER and STELLA MARIS by Cormac McCarthy.

 

Rose
The Patron Saint of Second Chances by Christine Simon

3
I listened to this book, and that may have been the problem. The heavily accented narrator made this difficult. The story is of a small village in Italy with about 200 residents. The water pipes in the village are in need of repair, but it will be extremely costly. So a vacuum salesman who is the "mayor" of the town tries to come up with a plan to raise the funds. By claiming that a movie star will be filming a movie there, he begins to cast the townspeople in various roles. As word gets out, tourists come to the town. What could have been a cute story was disjointed and odd. I just didn't get it.

Tessa
A Cowboy For Christmas by Lori Wilde

3
2.5** Okay, it’s an Avon Romance and I was expecting something predictable and heartwarming, not great literature. This had a lovely premise: a struggling, young widow with a toddler, meets her late husband’s estranged brother and the sparks fly. But there’s a very weak subplot involving Lissy’s mother-in-law; this tortured character just tortured me every time she appeared on the page, and the book lost a ½ star as a result. That’s not to say that I won’t get back on the horse and try another of Wilde’s cowboy romances in the future.

Sandy
Beneath Her Skin by Gregg Olsen

3
Wasn't really impressed with this book. The ending was good but most of the book was boring.

Susan
Signal Fires by Dani Shapiro

5
I enjoyed getting to know the characters and how they interacted with each other. Dani Shapiro does a great job of developing the characters and the plot. This is the second book I’ve read by Shapiro. I enjoyed both books.

Andrew
Stranger Sins by Michaelbrent Collings

5
Legion is back ! and in this installment, we get to know a whole new side of our beloved teacher. We all know how badass Legion is, he's an unstoppable force that will bring his lessons to those who need them most - and this book was filled with those in need of a lesson or three. The evolution of Legion in this story is where the change comes as he fights to save his new found friend. This was an action-packed story that was heartwarming, triumphant, haunting, horrific and uncomfortable all at the same time, and with MbC's intense writing style it all comes together to create an unforgettable, twisted thriller!

Andrew
Dark Matter by Blake Crouch

5
Insane, intense, incredible!

Clare
Marrying the Ketchups by Jenifer Close

5
A pitch-perfect comic novel about three cousins who all derive from a family dynasty of restauranteurs in Chicago, named Sullivan. Both the restaurant and the three adult cousins are stuck in a rut - nothing has changed for them in so long, patterns of behavior and character have become ingrained, with diminishing returns and successes. Loss and changes of circumstances force all three cousins back into the family fold -- and back working at Sullivan's restaurant. Will the three work through their anxieties and ruts to embrace change, personal growth and finally become successful at adulting, each in their own idiosyncratic way? Close writes the perfect sentence, crafting classic comic zinger after zinger.

MaryAnn
Horse by Geraldine Brooks

3
Not as engaging as her other books like PEOPLE OF THE BOOK or MARCH. Her writing style is awesome and the way she weaves characters together is excellent. It could be I have a lot on my mind… maybe a reread is in order.

Jane
Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson

4
Incredible book, interesting plot, loved the characters. I have no words to describe this book. It was such fast reading for an almost 400 page book that I didn't even realize it. That is all I can say. I'm sort of speechless. This book will stay in my mind for a long time.

Rose
Eight Hundred Grapes by Laura Dave

4
When Georgia looks out the window of the bridal salon and sees her fiancé Ben walking with his ex-girlfriend and a small child, she decides to flee Los Angeles and return to her family vineyard in Northern CA. There she finds some shocking things about her family - her parents are taking a break, her twin brothers are having issues over the same woman, and the vineyard is being sold to a family that Georgia believes will destroy what her family built. As her life is falling apart, Georgia needs to make some decisions and in doing so learns about love and being there for each other. Quick read, enjoyable.

Michelle
The Boys: A Memoir of Hollywood and Family by Ron Howard and Clint Howard

4
Ultimately a poignant love story to and about (at least in origin) their parents. Their childhood journey was compelling, and they both take the reader back in time to a different era, making you feel like you were there with them. The path of Ron Howard from his childhood star days as Opie on "The Andy Griffith Show" to Richie Cunningham on "Happy Days" and many others was interesting as expected. I loved seeing him evolve into the esteemed director he is, learning about his passion, perseverance, and hard work, and the life lessons he picked up along the way.

Beth
The Lincoln Highway by Amor Towles

5
THE LINCOLN HIGHWAY is the story of a detour from a plan to travel the Lincoln Highway west from Nebraska to California. Of the three books by Amor Towles that I’ve read, RULES OF CIVILITY, A GENTLEMEN IN MOSCOW, and now THE LINCOLN HIGHWAY, this one is by far his best. After Emmett’s stint in jail and his father‘s death, he and his little brother Billy decide to move to California. But after two of Emmett's old bunkmates, Duchess and Wooley, show up, Emmett and Billy have to first take them to New York, in the opposite direction. And this is their story, an adventure told by each one of them, plus some chapters, told by Emmett's and Billy’s friend, Sally.

Jayne
West With Giraffes by Lynda Rutledge

5
Our book club loved this book. The travel back in history to time of the depression was perfect. The details about the actual events made the book very engaging. The newspaper clips added to the novel. The characters were well developed and believable. You couldn't help but root for the giraffes! Learning that the zookeeper was a woman was fascinating. This book was voted one of our top books of the year 2022.

Jeffrey
L'Assommoir by Emile Zola

5
A story of desperately poor people written with grace and compassion yet unstinting in its depiction of brutality and sordidness. Zola’s powers of description and storytelling are unparalleled. Reading this has instilled in me the irresistible urge to reread NANA, of which this book is the sequel. This is the sort of experience we all look for in a novel and all too seldom get.

Joan
Booth by Karen Joy Fowler

3
A study of the Booth family…yes, John Wilkes…that Booth family. Each family member is given their due time in this book.

Connie
A Tap on the Window by Linwood Barclay

5
Reads a bit slow at first, but it reveals how a simple act of kindness cam end up to be a big error in judgement.

Sue
The Dictionary of Lost Words by Pip Williams

4
The book introduced to me a new way that women were suppressed at the turn of the twentieth century. The idea that words relating to women were rejected by the makers of the Oxford Dictionary was novel. It also pulled in the fight for the right to vote for women. It was a very satisfying read.

Susan
The Christmas Spirit by Debbie Macomber

4
My feel good author.

Jayme
The Bodyguard by Katherine Center

5
What a great contemporary romance. It was fast-paced, the characters were likeable, the banter was smart and funny, and the plot worked. Perfect beach read.

Jayme
Sunflower Sisters by Martha Hall Kelly

4
A very well-researched book about the Woolsey family of New York and their role during the Civil War. The fiction in the story was well placed and did add to the story. Make sure to read the author's notes to add a richness to your reading.

Alice
Neither Wolf Nor Dog by Kent Nerburn

3
I was not really interested in the book but I read it for our book club selection in January.

Rosa
Wrong Place Wrong Time by Gillian McAllister

5
I was excited to read this book when I learned that it had been chosen as a Reese's Book Club pick. The plot is an interesting premise of time travel, a concept that I have found to be tired - as in "what happens when you can travel to the past and change one thing?" But this story is so compelling and mind-boggling. The reader has to pay attention (maybe take notes!) and may even consider reading it twice to see what was missed. Note to self. I'm already imagining it as a film and wonder how a clever filmmaker might create it. It's a good choice for book club because it will definitely provoke a lively discussion.

Amy
The Diamond Eye by Kate Quinn

4
This is based on a true person - historical fiction.

Sharon
A Song of Comfortable Chairs by Alexander McCall Smith

5
As always M'ma Ramotswe and M'ma Matkutsi solve more of the mysteries of life in this funny and uplifting book.

Katie
Looking for Jane by Heather Marshall

5
Deeply moving novel that everyone should read. A deep dive into women's reproductive rights and the maternity homes in Canada and the United States in the 1960s.

Katie
The Violin Conspiracy by Brendan Slocum

5
This musical thriller will keep you on the edge of your seat trying to determine who has stolen the violin and what will happen with the family drama and the violin competition! This book also addresses racism not only in the classical music industry but in the world in general, drawn from the author's personal experiences. Wonderful debut novel!

Kristen
Back to the Garden by Laurie R. King

4
Pretty good mystery, not in the author's series, but a standalone. I liked the main detective character, but especially enjoyed the flashbacks to the past.

Ella
Other Birds by Sarah Addison Allen

5
Story of strangers meeting and becoming like family. The Dellawisp birds are everywhere, ghosts that haven’t been let go. Such an enchanting story!

Elizabeth
The Mother-in-Law by Sally Hepworth

3
Something of a mystery but also a family drama. I found the mother- in-law and her daughter unappealing characters.

Donna
Count the Ways by Joyce Maynard

4
Beautifully-written story about Eleanor and Cam who fall in love, marry, have children and then divorce. Love, anger, compassion and forgiveness all play a part in their lives. Loved the book.

Sherry
My Lovely Wife by Samantha Downing

4
I couldn’t put it down.

Rose
Small Things Like These by Claire Keegan

4
Bill Furlong delivers coal for his town. He is the father of 5 daughters. He was raised by a single mother and never knew his father's identity. This has concerned him for years. It is Christmas 1985 and he delivers coal to the local convent. Once there, he sees the laundry and the plight of all the young women who are sent to work there. His concern for the poor and girls in town are not shared by his wife. At the convent, he sees a young girl covered in soot. She tells him a secret. He then makes a very important decision. Very short story with a powerful impact.

Maireen
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid

5
Very interesting story of one of Hollywood's greatest stars.

Michelle
Billion Dollar Whale by Tom Wright and Bradley Hope

4
Compelling read that I couldn't put aside easily.

Rose
The Fortunes of Jaded Women by Carolyn Huynh

4
Vietnamese American women are cursed by a witch after their ancestor left her husband for another man. This witch says that the women of the family will never be happy and never have sons. The story then follows a family through very messy relationships, when the women never seem to find the right partner. They have estranged relationships with their mother and their siblings, all due to this curse by a psychic witch. This novel is a look into how Vietnamese people feel in the U.S., and how their traditions and culture may affect the choices they make, and how others view them. There were some funny moments throughout as they try to work on being a family again.

Jeanne
Going Rogue by Janet Evanovich

4
GOING ROGUE by Janet Evanovich is No. 29 in the Stephanie Plum series. I have to admit I was on the edge of my seat wondering whether Stephanie, Grandma and Lulu would rescue Connie from the clutches of two dangerous kidnappers. It was entertaining, laugh-out-loud funny and witty. I have to admit though that I’m a bit tired of the Stephanie, Morelli and Ranger triangle.

Francisca
Cooking With My Sisters by Adriana Trigiani and Mary Yolanda Trigiani

3
Trigiani is well known for her fiction, frequently drawing from her family history to draw her characters and launch her plots. This book, co-written with her sister Mary Yolanda Trigiani, is a combination of memoir and cookbook, in which she relates many family stories and provides the recipes that bring back those memories. A delicious treat.

Minna
Fake by Erica Katz

3
Fast-paced fiction set in the art world.

Shelley
Pieces of Me by Kate McLaughlin

5
PIECES OF ME is fiction that reads like a memoir about an 18-year-old girl before, during, and after her Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) diagnosis. While each persons experience would be unique, this book is a fantastic primer on a variety of possibilities as well how to help. Dylan has multiple personalities that live inside her to help her survive traumatic events that happened when she was younger. We get to meet and understand the role that some of these characters play to help her. Dylan's friends and family are exceptionally supportive and the reader can only hope that this is realistic. The author includes lists for further research including books, movies, and YouTube channels. I enjoyed reading this eye-opening book.

Debbie
N or M? by Agatha Christie

3
What an unusual title for a book, N OR M?, by Agatha Christie. This is a Tommy and Tuppence book. I am not a fan of this series, but this book fares better than some of the other books in this series. Tommy still seems to be less intelligent than Tuppence. Tommy and Tuppence work undercover to help catch German spies in the spring of 1940. Hitler and his Nazis attempt to learn the secrets of the British government and military. The husband and wife team advance to a local hotel in Sans Souci. I enjoy the sense of secrecy and the dangers for Tommy and Tuppence. Probably, the first time I figured the German spies identity. Too many blatant clues. But an enjoyable look at pre-WWII England.

Dorothy
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus

5
Garmus has written an outstanding story about women being undervalued and underestimated. I was mesmerized by the entire story!

Marcia
The Measure by Nikki Erlick

5
Really different and thought-provoking. Good for book club discussions.

Marcia
It Ends with Us by Colleen Hoover

5
Very true emotions. Great characters. Good handling of a tough subject.

Susan
The Usual Santas by Soho Crime Short Story Anthology

4
All very interesting stories: some scary, some snarky (Mick Herron), some just plain fun (Helen Thursten), centered on Christmas.

Tessa
Anxious People by Fredrik Backman

4
It starts with a really bad idea born of desperation, follows a group of strangers at an apartment viewing who are now hostages, and the two police officers (father and son), who are trying to find the truth. It’s a bit chaotic, much as the real-life scenario would be, and the reader is kept guessing as to what really happened for most of the book. The ending is totally unrealistic, but nonetheless satisfying, as befits a fable.

Linda
Wish You Were Here by Jodi Picoult

4
The novel has "triggers"- it brought back painful memories of the Covid pandemic at its worst. The themes are about adapting to circumstances in order to survive and changing one's priorities about what's important after a life-changing event.

Shelly
Second Chance with the Bridesmaid by Jennifer Faye

5
Can people change? Adara works on Ludas Island and really loves her job. She is organized, neat and efficient. When she met Krystof, on Valentines Day they started dating casually but during the past few months they are seeing more of each. On an impulse, with some time off due her she decides to fly to Paris and surprise Krystof for the weekend. She does not expect to see someone at his door whom he is hugging and invites into his room. Upset and frustrated as she knew Krystof would thinking nothing of jetting off to another country for a high stakes card game but this was different? Was he seeing someone else? Mad at herself for attempting to surprise him she decides it is best to return home and the next time he visits the island.

Leslie
Gilded Mountain by Kate Manning

5
Top-notch historical fiction!

Allie
We Deserve Monuments by Jas Hammonds

5
A new YA contemporary favorite. It's a story about trauma, racism, coming out, the power of friendship, and healing familial bonds before it's too late. I loved it.

Allie
The Poison Season by Mara Rutherford

5
An engrossing YA fantasy with an incredible atmosphere, well-developed characters, and great writing. Well-paced story as well. Really enjoyed this.

Linda
Always in December by Emily Stone

5
I am reading holiday books. Always in December is located in the UK, primarily. Starting right at the holiday with Josie looking at a solo holiday. A yearly trek to the mail box turns changes the entire holiday and more. I found myself wanting to read this any chance I had as the story drew me in. Light, holiday centered story pulls you in with twists, family and romance.

Francisca
Cathedral of the Sea by Ildefonso Falcones

4
Spanish journalists/reviewers have called Falcones “Spain’s new Dan Brown” or proclaimed “A new Ken Follett is born!” I can certainly see why those comparisons are made. This is an epic historical novel focusing on one character’s connection to the church, and more importantly to the Virgin Mary. It’s an engaging story that kept me turning pages – all 611 of them!

Paula
The Book of Lost Names by Kristin Harmel

3
I read this for my book club. The average rating for the group was 8/10. I didn't enjoy it as much as others. I felt it was easy to see how the ending was going to be, easy to predict. I know an author has a certain amount of pages they need to be within in many cases, and this book felt like she ran out of pages at that end as everything was tied neatly into a bow in the last 20 pages or so. The author explained in detail how Eva and her mother escaped Paris, but you have no idea how Eva returned from the Swiss border. This is where everything was rushed to close.

JaLynn
Scarred by Emily McIntire

4
4.5 stars. Absolutely loved this book. It's the second on in the Never After Series that I have read. The characters were great and it was so fast paced.

Kimberly
Liberation Day by George Saunders

4
This was different from what I was expecting. I was sucked in and couldn't stop reading. The stories were odd but very imaginative. It is always nice to read something new and unique.

Debbie
Peril in Paris by Rhys Bowen

2
I am a big fan of the mystery series, but sometimes the adventure falls short. Maybe the antics of Lady Georgiana Rannoch fall on deaf ears. In this selection, Georgie and her husband Darcy head to Paris. March 1936 looms as Hitler attempts to rule the country. Darcy, as usual, must secretly hunt the villains. A pregnant Georgie rooms with her good friend Belinda as Darcy darts in an out of Paris. Belinda, training under Chanel, gives Georgie a good time, but danger looms. Many of the outstanding tourist attractions draw Georgie to visit and explore. So much eating and drinking, even for Georgie. So much mention of Wallis Simpson and her involvement with Edward VIII.

Debbie
A Christmas Deliverance by Anne Perry

3
Anne Perry writes exciting mysteries centering on Christmas. This novella features Dr. Crowe, Scuff, and Monk. Dr. Crowe runs a medical service for the poor, and Scuff helps and follows instructions in an attempt to learn doctoring. Enter Eliza Hollester, the daughter of a prominent and rich man. Eliza’s carriage falls victim to a terrible accident and Eliza severely hurts herself. Dr. Crowe mends the tattered leg and falls deeply in love with Eliza. Eliza has been promised in marriage to the son of another wealthy man. Crowe witnesses Paul Dolan hitting Eliza and sets out to find why Eliza will marry such a louse. The result shows two prominent men cheating to remain in wealth and power.

Shelly
The Christmas Village by Annie Rains

4
Returning to your childhood home can be a reminder of the past. In this case Lucy Hannigan has returned to Somerset Lake where her mother left her a large home in the oldest and nicest part of town called the village in South Carolina. Aside from the fact that she will be her first Christmas alone in the house, she is finding all kinds of bills that her mother had left her. Lucy is a midwife but does not have a lot in savings and she wants to pay off all her mothers debts. The problem is when one is paid off she finds another one and the bills are pilling up. Will she have to sell this house as the upkeep and mounting bills are more then she thinks she can handle? She has friends who are there to help support her and give her confidence.

Andrew
The Last Ranger: Ranger of the Titan Wilds, Book One by J.D.L. Rosell

5
A new favorite series of mine! This was a heck of an opening to what is going to be an exciting series. I can read J.D.L's writing all day long, I was never a big fan of the fantasy genre, but the first time I read one of Josiah's books, which I think was THE THRONE OF ICE AND ASH (totally blew me away!), there was no looking back. Since then, I have picked up one of his stories at every opportunity! His writing style and world building is of another world, a world I easily and happily get lost in. This story is the culmination (stealing the author's words) of his growing skills, and it shows. This book was EPIC in every way, and the next installment cannot get here fast enough!

Rose
Moment in Time by Suzanne Redfearn

4
3.5 rounded up to 4. It has been 8 years since Chloe and Mo's lives were changed forever by an accident. (Book - In An Instant). Now, Chloe is a vet, struggling to make ends meet. Mo is heading a media company, and in love with Kyle. Their friend Hazel is available to go with Mo to celebrate her story and interview with Jake Tapper. However, when Mo takes a call and returns to the bar, she finds that Hazel is gone. Later, they find Hazel, drugged and raped by Allen, and Mo is furious when she finds out this is the latest in a pattern. Hazel refuses to testify and disappears. Mo and Chloe set off to find Hazel and keep her from danger. But Mo's outrage threatens to catch up with her when Allen is found beaten. Mo is the suspect. Now what?

Rose
Hush Little Baby by Suzanne Redfearn

4
Jillian is a successful architect with a handsome husband and two beautiful kids. But, she is hiding the fact that her husband, Gordon-a cop, is abusive. When he threatens her, she decides to leave him. But, how? When he does the unimaginable, she knows that she has to take the children and run. She finds herself in WA state, but Gordon is on her trail. When something happens to one of the children, she knows that he will now find her. However, she doesn't know the things he will do to keep her from her children. How can she fight back? How can she be sure that Gordon will never hurt them again. The author does a great job of depicting the terror of a battered woman and mother. Heartbreaking story.

Heather
The Marriage Portrait by Maggie O'Farrell

5
Loved the mystery behind the illness in this descriptive historical fiction. The art element enhances the narrative with the story behind the marriage portraits. One of my favorites for 2022!

Pat
The Elephant Whisperer by Lawrence Anthony and Graham Spence

5
This nonfiction description of the author who owns a preserve in South Africa and his relationship with seven elephants he adopts to save them from a death sentence. So heartwarming and educational! Elephants are so intelligent and loving!

Cynthia
Our Wives Under the Sea by Julia Armfield

4
Ethereal story of an undersea explorer.

Sherrie
The Lindbergh Nanny by Mariah Fredericks

4
Such a heartbreaking and terribly sad story of the infamous kidnapping of Charles Lindbergh and his wife's son, Charlie. This fiction version takes us in the back room, the servants and the nanny and all they know or know and don't share. I flew through it to get some closure toward the end. So devastating for this family and those who loved them.

Niki
All Good People Here by Ashley Flowers

4
Storyline kept me reading. Margo was an interesting character. Is the ending setting the stage for a sequel?

Linda
Fairy Tale by Stephen King

5
He is a master storyteller! The characters are so richly drawn that I can picture them all. This is a not-to-be-missed Stephen King story!

MH
The Shadow of the Lynx by Victoria Holt

4
Despite having guessed two things ahead of the “reveal” in this Gothic novel, I liked the unexpected ending. I also loved the description of Australia and how novels transport us to places and times where we’ve never been. When Nora’s father dies and leaves her under the guardianship of his friend Lynx, Nora’s life changes drastically. A trip to Australia, a very different life there, then a return to England —ll feature in the book.

Lori
The Four Winds by Kristin Hannah

4
Fascinating read about the Dust Bowl and the Great Migration, neither of which I previously knew much about. Some parts of the story were a little trite or formulaic, but overall well researched and a good read.

Sharon
Oh, William! by Elizabeth Strout

5
I read this book twice and each time felt I saw more in the book. Not only was it about relationships and secrets, each character was unique and led the reader to think about the author’s motivation in using them. It makes me want to read the next in the series to find out what happens to Lucy and William.

Sharon
Storm Rising by Sara Driscoll

5
An FBI K-9 mystery which takes place in North Carolina kept up a high level of suspense. The characters and the dogs are interesting and fun. There is intrigue and romance along with canine tenderness and descriptions of nature and disasters. I enjoyed this new author team and learning about the complexities of dog training.

Lois
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus

4
LESSONS IN CHEMISTRY is an interesting look at an intelligent, scientific woman experiencing workplace discrimination in a 1960s California research institute. The story is well written and will appeal to those of us who who have lived in that world, even tangentially. The characters are realistic and well-developed. Elizabeth Zott, a leading edge research chemist, is the only woman on her team. She finds her soulmate in Calvin, another team member and a Nobel Prize nominee. Life deals her some difficult obstacles which she meets with steadfast determination. And, there is an added bonus for dog lovers: Six-thirty, her beloved canine friend plays a leading role.

Stephanie
Trespasses by Louise Kennedy

5
The beautiful tale of Cushla, a young Catholic schoolteacher’s affair with a much older and married Protestant barrister. A moving story set against the backdrop of Belfast during the Troubles, Cushla cares for her alcoholic mother, assists her brother at the family pub and, perhaps the most poignant thread of a complex novel, champions a young student whose family is torn apart by sectarian violence. Not to be missed.

Stephanie
The Lemon by S. E. Boyd

4
A fun romp which opens with the death of a beloved Anthony Bourdain figure and the efforts of his friends, fixers, and handlers to preserve his legacy. Replete with a cast of characters that include strivers, sycophants, hired guns and public relations wizards. Set in our foodie and celebrity obsessed culture, this is a perfect light read.

Simonne
The Man Who Died Twice by Richard Osman

5
Assisted living residents again rise to the occasion! I love this series because it verifies that just because your body maybe failing, you still are a viable, thinking person.

Simonne
Devotion by Adam Makos

3
Nonfiction re: aircraft fighter pilots in the Korean War. Too many trivial details for my taste, but an exciting read.

Simonne
The Paris Apartment by Lucy Foley

3
Suspenseful with lots of red herrings. The conclusion is a bit far-fetched, but a quick read that keeps you guessing for sure.

Myrna
The Winners by Fredrik Backman

5
I fell in love with Backman's residents of Beartown and Hed in the first of the three-part series, and having finished the second (US AGAINST YOU) and third (THE WINNERS) books, I was not disappointed. His writing is such that I felt I was witnessing the events as a resident of the towns. I only wish there would be a fourth book - maybe a look at sweet, young Ana, ten years from now? Please, Fredrik, are you listening?

Tracy
Mrs. Dalloway by Virginia Woolf

3
I found this classic easier in audiobook format as it flows with a stream of consciousness-type writing. I found the storyline of the war veteran the most interesting due to the difference in how his illness was handled in 1926. The writing is beautiful but not much happens nor are characters explored in depth.

Linda
Finding Christmas by Karen Schaler

3
If this "rom-com" story reminds you of a Hallmark Christmas movie; it's because the author's books have actually been turned into movies. The plot is the same old predictable Hallmark plot, which I enjoyed, nevertheless!

Beth
Why We Sleep: Unlocking the Power of Sleep and Dreams by Matthew Walker

2
I picked up this book to see if it could help me with my chronic insomnia. I didn’t get much in the way of help there, but I did learn how important sleep is to your health - which made me more anxious about my insomnia! The book is very dry - the author supports his conclusions with lots of studies but that became pretty boring to read.

Beth
Horse by Geraldine Brooks

5
An excellent read with multiple storylines that intersect and parallel each other. As a reader you will learn and enjoy this historical novel revolving around the South, the Civiil War, horse breeding and racing, plantation life and current issues.

Sherri
Still Me by Jojo Moyes

4
The third in a trilogy, this book follows the quirky Louisa Clark as she heads for NYC. Unlucky in love and employment, she manages to land on her feet spreading charm and love as she goes. A charming read.

Jean
The Confessions of Max Tivoli by Andrew Sean Greer

4
This book uses a device of having the main character age in reverse. Max interacts with several of the same people at different points in his life without them recognizing him, although he well remembers them. He is essentially a sad person because he knows his fate from an early age (at which time he looks old) and can do nothing to change it. The writing is top quality and the story, despite its sadness, is engaging.

Jeanne
The Prisoner by B. A. Paris

5
THE PRISONER by B.A. Paris was an intense thriller that grabbed hold of me right from the start. It was both captivating and mesmerizing. I especially liked the short paragraphs and thought the author did a great job in creating and crafting the characters who fit so perfectly with the plot. The story switches back and forth from past to present, but it was easy to follow. I was on the edge of my seat and kept trying to figure out how it was going to end. The ending both shocked and surprised me!

Sean
The ABC Murders by Agatha Christie

4
Another Agatha Christie mystery that had me guessing. She does an amazing job making you try to pay attention to every detail to try and figure out the culprit. Here, it's a slight change from other Christie novels I've read, as you're led to believe you know the murderer. Hard to explain without spoiling. The ending was quite satisfying and made perfect sense. Overall, another delightful mystery.

Virginia
Wish You Were Here by Jodi Picoult

5
A departure for Ms. Picoult only in the general storyline, I found WISH YOU WERE HERE mesmerizing and riveting. I remember so well when the world shut down as Covid burst upon us. I already felt untethered as our home burned to the ground in late December 2017 and we had 1 suitcase and 2 changes of underwear plus our 2 senior dogs. Our nomadic life and the untetheredness expanded to include everyone in early 2020. We are all connected and Ms. Picoult reinforced this beautifully. I loved this book and have read it 3 times (so far).

Joan
The Silver Star by Jeannette Walls

4
Walls is always a memorable author.

Rhonda
The Lindbergh Nanny by Mariah Fredericks

5
A well thought out, researched, plausible story to what happened to baby Charlie Lindbergh.

Susan
Four Treasures of the Sky by Jenny Tinghui Zhang

5
This book will rip your heart out and still you ask for more. The writing is breathtaking and the characters will not disappoint. When the book ended, I felt like I couldn't even breathe. If you are looking for a good book for book club, this is a great one. FOUR TREASURES OF THE SKY is a 5- star read!

Clare
The Wanderers by Meg Howrey

5
Howrey's beautifully-written speculative novel, set in a near future in the U.S., sees three cosmonauts preparing for the 1st ever expedition to Mars. Alternating chapters are narrated by the crew members and a family member of each: daughter, wife or son while we follow the cosmonauts' preparations for their trip. How do the family members cope with the separation and how does the voyage of their mother/husband/father impact their own lives? What is it like to be known to the world only as 'daughter/wife/son' of the famous Mars cosmonaut? On the 17th month on their flight to Mars the crew doubt their reality: Is this a simulated trip or are they really landed on Mars? What's the nature of love if a parent/husband chooses Mars over family?

Teresa
Wishin’ and Hopin’ by Wally Lamb

1
A sweet, funny story that brings back childhood memories of the 1960s when I attended public school, but most of my friends went to Notre Dame de Lourdes in Swarthmore, PA. Reminiscent of The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, 5th grader Felix Funicello (distant cousin of the famous Mouseketeer Annette) retells the story of his fifth grade year at St. Aloysius Gonzaga Parochial School. As the school gears up for their Christmas pageant, hilarity ensues among the 5th graders and their teacher, Madame Frechette. It’s a lighthearted book that’s fun to read and perfect for a Christmastime.

Robin
When Women Were Dragons by Kelly Barnhill

4
This book was mentioned at my book club’s outing in October and I listened to the audiobook this month. I didn’t want it to end, I really loved the alternate history she suggests in this novel. It was a great change of pace for me while still being though-provoking.

Tessa
All I Want For Christmas Is a Cowboy by Jessica Clare

3
A young woman with a stressful job decides to go to her family’s cabin in Wyoming over Christmas for some alone time. But she misses the turn in a blizzard, crashes her car and is rescued by a handsome cowboy. It's a predictable, fast holiday cowboy romance. And I did so like looking at the cover!

Beth
Invisible Girl by Lisa Jewell

4
INVISIBLE GIRL is another winner by Lisa Jewell. This one, though, is a little less so than the others. Owen is in his 30s, lives with his aunt, and appears to most people to be a "creepy” guy. As a result, he ends up in jail for a crime he didn’t commit. Saffyre is a teenager who has gone missing. It seems that the last anyone saw her was Valentine’s Day night. Owen becomes a suspect in this case. Roan is a child psychologist. I won’t say much more about him so you can anticipate the rest. Except that he was Saffyre's psychologist for years. Joshua is Roan’s son. He and Saffyre eventually  become friends. While his part in the story at first seems minor, he ends up being my favorite character.

Sally
The Maid by Nita Prose

5
I loved loved, loved this book. It is written from a fascinating angle.

Navkomal
I'm Thinking of Ending Things by Iain Reid

5
This book was equal parts heartbreaking and scary. Full of philosophical musings and haunting imagery, I'M THINKING OF ENDING THINGS kept me on the edge of my seat. The ending was shocking!

Navkomal
All Quiet on the Western Front by Erich Maria Remarque

5
A beautifully-written and tragic anti-war classic. The book chronicles the struggles faced by young boys in WWI. Remarque writes haunting descriptions of the war and how it affects the young men. This book's message is still important today!

Navkomal
Verity by Colleen Hoover

3
This was a quick read thanks to Hoover's writing style. It kept me hooked and the ending was shocking! The romance sub-plot, however, was not as compelling.

Navkomal
We Have Always Lived in the Castle by Shirley Jackson

4
Jackson is a master at creating an unsettling atmosphere through her writing; WE HAVE ALWAYS LIVED IN THE CASTLE is no exception. I greatly enjoyed the themes of nature and decay in this story and I think it would make for the perfect fall read! The dialogue in this story, as well as in all her other novels, is written in a compelling and natural voice, and I was surprised to find myself laughing at certain parts considering the plot of the book.

Navkomal
Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo

3
Although I had hoped to like this more than I did, SIX OF CROWS was still an enjoyable read. It was written well, however, I think I'm just not the biggest fan of young-adult fantasy books. Also, I am already forgetting certain parts of the plot, which is never a good sign.

Navkomal
Crooked Kingdom by Leigh Bardugo

3
This is the second book in the SIX OF CROWS duology, and my feelings towards Crooked Kingdom are similar to the ones I have towards the first installment. Again, the book was written well, but I was not as attached to the characters as I would have hoped to be. The plot was still interesting and it kept me wanting to read more.

Navkomal
Normal People by Sally Rooney

4
NORMAL PEOPLE follows two students, Connell and Marianne, and the evolution of their relationship as they navigate through young adulthood. Rooney's prose is simple yet effective and explores important themes like class and mental illness. I thought this was a strong second book by Rooney!

Navkomal
The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

3
Morgenstern's atmospheric prose transported me into a magical circus, however, the overall plot was lacking. The writing and setting of the novel were beautiful, but since the plot did not hook my attention, I found this book to be time-consuming to get through.

Navkomal
The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood

5
THE LOVE HYPOTHESIS was a fun and light-hearted romance. I read it in one sitting and I was engrossed in the book the whole time! It was funny and cute, and the the writing was great!

Vicky
The Perfect Assassin by James Patterson

5
Wow, another great read by James Patterson. I wasn't sure how I'd like this book by the storyline preview, but right from the start it drew me in and finished in under 24 hours! Imagine a secret school in Russia that the students are kidnapped as infants and raised to do whatever is required of them by their employers. Hard to say much more about the story without giving too much away. So worth the read!!!!

Kay
The Night She Disappeared by Lisa Jewell

4
The story starts out slowly while building up to the ultimate crescendo of unraveling what has occurred. Told from several points of view of those who live in the small academic town: the mother of the missing girl and the newly arrived partner of the school dean.

Kay
Horse by Geraldine Brooks

5
Fabulous book! I learned so much about horses and the slaves who became expert at raising and training them, both viewed as property by their owner. Interesting story based on true history.

Kay
Tracy Flick Can't Win by Tom Perrotta

4
It looked like everything was against Tracy being selected as Principal of the local high school, even though she had taken the helm when her boss fell ill and she had essentially been doing the job all along. As a woman she felt the sting of bias in the community of men. All this until the award presentation to the athlete named a hero!

Kay
Other Birds by Sarah Addison Allen

5
I really enjoyed this coming-of-age story where Zooey returns to Mallow Island off the coast of South Carolina to reside in her dead mother's condo, Dellawisp, Zoey searches and forms friendships and family of her own making. The "magic" of Dellawisp brings her much hope for the future.

Kay
The Counterfeiters by Andre Gide

3
I know this classic written by a Nobel Prize winner is considered one of the best of literature, but I found it hard going and the ending was not satisfying.

Kay
Talk to the Snail by Stephen Clarke

4
As a Francophile I enjoy reading about American experiences adapting to the French culture. He did not disappoint. Very well-told anecdotes and how to navigate in this foreign culture.

Kay
What She Found by Robert Dugoni

5
Excellent mystery taking place in Seattle. I always enjoy locations where I know the names and places referred to. Multi-layered plot navigated by Tracy to solve a 25-year-old mystery. I will look forward to more in this series.

Liz
Such a Pretty Girl by T. Greenwood

5
Mothers and daughters have a complicated relationship at times. Fiona, a single mother with aspirations of becoming a star, becomes jealous when Ryan, her daughter, is discovered by a modeling agency when she is only 10 years old. However, when she comes to terms with the fact that Ryan is the rising star, she becomes her manager. The story is told in the past and the present and we see that what Ryan remembers from her childhood is not necessarily what Fiona remembers.

Richard N B
The Lincoln Highway by Amor Towles

5
It begins when Emmett and his younger brother Billy decide to set out for California and a new start in life, but their plan gets derailed when two friends show up and suggest a “side trip” to New York. The result is an odyssey worthy of Homer, but rather than ten years, this odyssey takes only ten days. Great characters! And I like the ambiguous ending, which leaves the reader to imagine what will happen next, and hungry for more details of future adventures.

Rose
No Ordinary Life by Suzanne Redfearn

3
Faye Martin is a mother of three kids, her husband left her for another woman, and she is struggling to make ends meet while dealing with her son's speech issues. When looking for a job, her 4-year-old, Molly, dances in the street with a man, and someone films it - and it goes viral. She is then picked up by a talent agent, and cast in a very popular TV show. Faye enjoys the limelight, but soon realizes that child star fame is a detriment to her family. I didn't like what Faye did to control the situation; it was sneaky and dishonest. I don't believe it was the only way. This is the third book of Redfearn's that I have read in the last few days. Since I read them together, I noticed that she repeats a lot of the same things in her books.

Dorothy
When Women Were Dragons by Kelly Barnhill

5
Surprisingly, I loved WHEN WOMEN WERE DRAGONS because fantasy or speculative fiction is not my usual go-to for reading. The story is terrific and hits home about women's issues.

Kelley
Maid by Stephanie Land

4
Seemed to drag at times, but the author's work ethic and love for her child were amazing.

Debbie
City on Fire by Don Winslow

1
CITY ON FIRE by Don Winslow did not interest me. The opening chapters of the book read like Genesis of the Bible. The book and narrative never reached the upper level of readability. So many individuals gave the book glowing reviews, but I never found that plateau.

Debbie
The Red Lotus by Chris Bohjalian

2
Chris Bohjalian constantly follows the darker side of humanity that this reader finds distressing. I had read THE FLIGHT ATTENDANT and now look at the airline employees in a different light. This somber novel deals with rats, their ability to adapt, and the spreading of plagues, exactly what a person needs to read in the wake of the global pandemic with Covid. The small chapter fillers in between the regular chapters covered the evolution of rats. An interesting discussion, but one of terror. The story ends with very little hope for humanity in the wake of greed, hunger, and power.

Shelly
We'll Always Have Christmas by Jenny Hale

5
Noelle Parker always enjoyed Christmas and seeing her friends and family and hanging out in her family's cozy bakery. Unfortunately, after being laid off from work and having to move back home with her parents, she and Lucas her son are not anticipating a very Merry Christmas. Money is tight, her grandmother died last year and she just found out that with the rent increase on bakery they will probably have to close after the holidays. What more could go wrong... Knowing she must find a job, her sister tells her that Alexander Harrington's grandfather needs a full-time caregiver for him and it not only pays very well but provides an apartment for her and Lucas to live.

Allie
Lavender House by Lev AC Rosen

5
A fantastic book that wasn't what I was expecting. This isn't a thriller, more of a cozy, historical mystery, centered around queer folks during the 1950s. It has a slower pace, but I loved it.

Kim
Somebody Like Santa by Janet Dailey

4
Even though this is a romance novel, the story is far from light and easy. Taking place in Texas, the reader meets the handsome single dad and a lovely single school social counselor. In small town Texas everyone knows each other well, however not enough to help one of its own until it’s almost too late. The character development is key here and a touch of Christmas makes it timely.

Allie
Frizzy by Claribel A. Ortega & Rose Bousamra

5
One of the most heartfelt and important graphic novels for young readers I've read! The message is one of accepting yourself as you are, and the story and art compliment each other wonderfully.

Amy
Triple Cross by James Patterson

5
Great book. It is a thriller.

Rose
Secluded Cabin Sleeps Six by Lisa Unger

4
3.5 rounded up to 4. I enjoyed this thriller novel about a brother and sister, their spouses, and a best friend and her boyfriend who all go on a getaway weekend. What they don't know is that someone is stalking them and is planning to harm them. Hannah and Bruce are parents to Gigi and seem happy, but lately Bruce is secretive. Mako/Mickey, Hannah's brother, and his wife, Liza, are trying for a child, but Mako, a braggart, isn't always faithful. Finally, Cricket and Joshua, are coming too, but Cricket still fawns over Mako. Meanwhile, there's a story of Henry who has a shady past, and his wife, Piper. DNA links this story, and someone who has tracked the DNA of the family is planning to harm the six, but why? Lots of secrets.

Rose
The Stationery Shop by Marjan Kamali

5
In a stationery shop in Tehran, Roya and Bahman meet and fall in love. Their meeting and love story was facilitated by Mr. Fakhri, the shop owner. They plan to marry, but Bahman's mother doesn't approve. It is 1953, and there is a coup attempt of the Prime Minister. Bahman is politically active. When Bahman doesn't arrive at the square to meet Roya to marry her, she is concerned. 60 years later, when Roya and Bahman meet again in 2013, she asks him why he never came. This is the story of love lost, a turbulent time, desperate people, and those trying to make things right. It is heartbreakingly beautiful. I highly recommend this novel. Love should always be celebrated.

Sue
The Maze by Nelson DeMille

4
This title was a little more predictable than other DeMille stories, but was still a fun read!

Allie
A Scatter of Light by Malinda Lo

5
This is a fantastic, queer YA coming-of-age story set in the same universe as LAST NIGHT AT THE TELEGRAPH CLUB. It has incredible writing and characters. I loved it.

Allie
The Complete Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi

5
I'd only heard great things about this book, and it mostly lived up to my expectations. Incredible graphic memoir. The art is charming, the writing is engaging, and while I enjoyed the first part much more than the second, I'd definitely recommend it.

Allie
Me by Elton John

5
One of my favorite memoirs I've read. I both read and listened to this on audiobook, and would definitely recommend the audio, but Elton is an entertaining writer all on his own. Loved it.

Allie
The Sunbearer Trials by Aiden Thomas

5
The exciting start to a YA fantasy duology by the amazing Aiden Thomas, with wonderfully developed characters, great writing, and an exciting plot. I can't wait to continue reading with the sequel!

Allie
Coven by Kit Seaton and Jennifer Dugan

4
A really good, enjoyable YA graphic novel about a queer witch who's forced to return to her coven in a modern day setting. The art was good, but I found the story a little lacking. Would love a sequel.

Allie
The Godmothers by Monica McInerney

4
A very heartfelt book about grief that was a pleasure to read. It has a few too many plotty details I didn't care about, which slowed my reading, but it has good writing and characters.

Allie
Elsewhere by Alexis Schaitkin

4
An incredibly immersive read with atmospheric storytelling and descriptive writing. I enjoyed this book so much for those elements, but never felt much of a connection to the main character.

Tessa
The Big Door Prize by M. O. Walsh

4
My face-to-face book club chose this book for discussion; I knew nothing going into it and expected a charming, quirky character-driven ensemble of small-town Southern America. I got some of that, certainly, but so much more. There are some pretty heavy issues here, including unrealized dreams, peer pressure, drug abuse, and grief. There are scenes that are introspective and give the reader some insight into what these characters are thinking. Other scenes are lighthearted and break the tension. And there are very dramatic scenes that made me afraid to look, and more afraid to look away.

Rose
The Lobotomist's Wife by Samantha Greene Woodruff

3
In the early 1930s, Ruth Emeraldine is working at NY Hospital for the Insane after her father made a large endowment. Ruth has devoted her life to helping the patients, after her brother, Harry succumbed to his mental illness. When she meets Dr. Robert Apter, she is intrigued, and she believes that he shares her philosophy to help the mentally ill via new procedures. Apter "perfects" the lobotomy. He performs hundreds of them. Meanwhile, Margaret, suffering from postpartum depression seeks his help. But Ruth becomes suspect of the success of lobotomies. Is she too late to save Margaret, her marriage, the hospital? This is the story of a person's drive to succeed at any cost, contrasted with the compassion of another.

Michelle
A Desolation Called Peace by Arkady Martine

3
A diverting space thriller with just a bit too much social commentary, unfortunately.

Allie
The Cherry Robbers by Sarai Walker

5
This is a new favorite book! It's thrilling and gorgeously written --- gothic, queer, spooky and tragic. I loved it.

Allie
Kings of B'More by R. Eric Thomas

5
This is a one-of-a-kind story about a one-of-a-kind friendship. I loved the characters, and this is the kind of book I tabbed a lot because the writing was so good. One of my new favorite YA contemporaries.

Allie
I'm Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy

5
I listened to this on audio, which definitely added to the experience. It's an important memoir about parental abuse that I'm glad has gotten so much attention.

Allie
They Called Us Enemy by George Takei

5
I love graphic memoirs, and this one about George Takei's experiences as a child in the WWII internment camps was fantastic. I think the art could've been better, but it's definitely not bad.

Allie
Our Missing Hearts by Celese Ng

3
I've read Celeste Ng's previous novels and loved them, so I was excited for this one. It's not a bad book, and it hooked me early on, but it didn't live up to my expectations. It just felt like not a whole lot happened in the story, and I wasn't really impacted by the ending.

Allie
Woman Without Shame: Poems by Sandra Cisneros

3
Interesting, at times entertaining, poems, and I enjoyed listening to them on audio (read by the author). Nothing was quite memorable, though.

Allie
The Family Remains by Lisa Jewell

5
THE FAMILY UPSTAIRS is one of my favorite thrillers, and the sequel lived up to my expectations! I loved it. Lisa Jewell's writing is super addictive.

Allie
Siren Queen by Nghi Vo

5
Nghi Vo is an incredible, vivid writer, and I loved this book. It drew me into the setting effortlessly, and despite having a slower start, I finished reading it in two sittings.

Allie
Olga Dies Dreaming by Xochitl Gonzalez

5
I loved this book more than I thought I would. It did an awesome job with characterization and dialogue, especially with Olga. I also really fell for the romance.

Allie
The Change by Kirsten Miller

4
I enjoyed this while I was reading it, but I don't remember much about it now. The writing was good and the characters were interesting, and it had a satisfying ending.

Francisca
Stay Where You Are Then Leave by John Boyne

4
The Great War (WWI) began on Alfie Summerfield’s fifth birthday, with the result that few people attended his party. That was okay. More cake for Alfie! This is a book suitable for middle-school children, but deals with some serious issues, including poverty among the families of fighting men, conscientious objectors and “shell shock” (now called PTSD). Alfie is a marvelous character. He’s curious, intelligent, a hard worker, resourceful and tenacious.