This contest period's winners were Barbara W., Joan R. and Michelle M., who each received a copy of I HAVE SOME QUESTIONS FOR YOU by Rebecca Makkai and IT’S ONE OF US by J. T. Ellison.
Katrina
The Green Mile by Stephen King
A very good book. Brought tears to my eyes. Was not what I was expecting and not the typical book I would read, but I still highly recommend to those who are a fan of Stephen King!
Thomas
James Patterson by James Patterson: The Stories of My Life by James Patterson
Excellent read.
Thomas
Sparring Partners by John Grisham
Excellent read.
brenda
A Stranger in the House by Shari Lapena
Easy to read, keeps you guessing.
Fran
Now Is Not the Time to Panic by Kevin Wilson
This is my second Kevin Wilson book, and it did not disappoint. My favorite was NOTHING TO SEE HERE but I also enjoyed this one. A story of teenage angst, art, and its power to influence. I loved the characters, which is the “art” of Kevin Wilson’s writing. This one reads like a short story, although it’s 180 pages.
Karen
It Starts With Us by Colleen Hoover
So happy the story continued. Savored every page.
Ann Marie
Weyward by Emilia Hart
Loved this book about three women in three different time periods. Their stories were captivating. I loved Violet's spunk, and I loved learning that back in the past how people said "weird"!
Teresa
Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt
What a lovely story: A widow, a motherless man, and an octopus. What kind of creative writer does it take to put together a story with those three main characters? An amazing one. A sweet story that I just loved. I miss the characters already.
Jane
Targeted in the Desert by Dana Mentink
Due to publish March 26th. You won't want to miss out. Awesome book! Felicia has already been in danger and her car was bombed. Jude Duke the sheriff stayed by her side through her turmoil. Then he let age difference deter him. Felicia was adopted. She never knew her biological mom. All of a sudden a woman leaves a note on her door she needs to meet so Felicia can protect her sister (which she knew nothing about). Danger abounds all around. Gracie is 6 years old and recovering from a surgery. Need encouragement. Uplifting and an adventure you will enjoy. Pre-order now or you can get it March 26 when it releases.
Jane
When Jasmine Blooms by Tif Marcelo
Thank you to the author for this book. I enjoyed this one and it kept my interest between the present and in the past when she was in two worlds. After losing her daughter, Libby, two years ago, Celine's life has been topsy-turvy and guilt ridden. What would it be like if she took the other fork in the road? She soon finds out when all of a sudden she's back before she married Quinn, had kids and Libby was alive. She goes back to their house after moving out two years ago, and there is Libby (Elizabeth in her dream), alive renting their house. It was very interesting read. I've read similar books lately and it seems to be a new trend in writing.
Nancy
Someone Else’s Shoes by Jojo Moyes
It’s always a treat when a new Jojo Moyes novel is out! The plot initially seemed unlikely but she successfully brought together the unique characters of Nisha (spoiled rich woman abruptly dismissed from her marriage), Sam (facing real challenges at work and home), and Jasmine and Andrea (minor characters who are fighting the real battles of life).
Jayme
Running With Sherman by Christopher McDougall
Just a sweet story about a rescued donkey and the wacky world of burro racing.
Jayme
The Invisible Husband of Frick Island by Colleen Oakley
Though it was a little slow in parts, I really enjoyed this story about friendship, love, and lose. Frick Island is based on Smith Island, Virginia (which is right up the road from me) even the 12 layer cake is a shout out to Smith Island. I haven't been there yet, but I know where we will be heading there the next long weekend that comes around.
Cindy
Vacationland by Meg Mitchell Moore
Beach read. Somewhat formulaic plot, rich girl, poor girl, family secrets, life problems, all wrapped up with a happy ending. Set on the coast of Maine. Seems to go out of its way to specifically name every business in the town in which it is set - every restaurant, bar, takeout spot, park, library, road, store, and describe what the spot was well known to all the locals for.
Cynthia
Sisters by Danielle Steel
Nice read.
Alexandra
Maame by Jessica George
I loved this book. Maddie is a wonderful character I can relate to. Her story of personal growth and finding her place in the world made me want to cheer out loud. Yet there were times that were so beautifully poignant that I was crying. A really wonderful book!
Paula
Taste by Stanley Tucci
Lighthearted, easy read. Thoroughly enjoyable. This was a book club pick and we all participated in a lively discussion about food, family and traditions.
Amy
The Messy Lives of Book People by Phaedra Patrick
It was my turn to select a book for my group and I was in the mood for something light. This one fit the bill perfectly and received praise from everyone in our club. I thought the characters were interesting and there were a few plot twists that kept me guessing. Fans of A MAN CALLED OVE will probably enjoy this one.
Simonne
The Dig by John Preston
Novel based on actual events just prior to WWII, this tells of a find at Sutton Hoo land. The ancient Anglo-Saxon is slowly unearthed by a local soil expert and then competing museums get involved and overtake the project. We get an insight into the different players in the competition.
Simonne
A World of Curiosities by Louise Penny
Not my favorite in a series that I love very much. I love Armand Gamache and the characters of Three Pines, but I found this novel had too many mind games and too many far-fetched coincidences. So much of what occurs is highly improbable if not impossible.
Simonne
The Pig Did It by Joseph Caldwell
Forlorn Aaron McCloud, the protagonist of the story, is just a self-pitying jerk so it makes this book a little hard to like. It is a rollicking Irish tale, full of colorful characters, with one of the main ones being dead! Long on the Irish tales and speeches including a pretty funny Irish wake. Too bad it was so hard to like the main character.
Helen
The Leisure Seeker by Michael Zadoorian
I chose this book for my book club pick. Everyone loved it. So bittersweet. The ending lines were perfect: “This is not always what love means, but this is what it means for us today. It is not your place to say." Beautiful!
Melinda
The Winners by Fredrik Backman
It's a long book (approx 650 pages), but I love this author and his writing.
Beth
It Starts With Us by Colleen Hoover
This sequel to IT ENDS WITH US was a very engaging read that immediately captured my interest. Its content and plot and characters were well drawn by the author and it was insightful about a pervasive problem in our world. Highly recommended.
Beth
How the Word is Passed: A Reckoning With the History of Slavery Across America by Clint Smith
This was an eye-opening book. The author visits several sights across the U.S. and one in Senegal to examine the history of those places and how they are conventionally remembered. I learned things I was never taught in history classes in elementary or secondary school.
Elizabeth
The Angel’s Share by Ellen Crosby
Another interesting book in the series.
Denise
Our Missing Hearts by Celeste Ng
I really liked this book! The concept was not anything I had read in other books. The pure love between the mother and son was heartwarming and pure.
Rosa
A World of Curiosities by Louise Penny
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher. The Armand Gamache series is one of my favorite series of mysteries. This is the 18th installment. A WORLD OF CURIOSITIES is another name for an unusual painting called The Paston Treasure. I made sure to search for it online. Again, here is a complicated story that has plenty of twists and turns, keeping me totally engaged and not able to put it down. The usual characters living the the town of Three Pines are back, and so is Louise Penny's incredible storytelling talent. This was excellent.
Elly
Fresh Water for Flowers by Valerie Perrin
#1 best seller in France and Italy during Covid. Well-written novel about a cemetery keeper who tends graves, records services, gardens and sells flowers to mourners. The European cemeteries have photos and funerary plaques that make the deceased stories come alive. The cemetery keeper is the protagonist and the novel includes her story, relationships, a mystery and wonderfully-developed characters. One of my all time favorites!
Lisa
Every Summer After by Carley Fortune
Cute, romantic story set in a lakeside community in Canada. Sam and Percy meet as kids up at the lake, and this book follows them through the years.
Debi
Cold-Blooded Myrtle by Elizabeth C. Bunce
Book #3 in the Myrtle Hardcastle mystery series continues to deliver an engaging main character and fun hijinks. In this outing that picks up right where book two ended, finds Myrtle at the Christmastime holidays with the murder of the owner of the town’s mercantile. This time the reader gets to learn more about Myrtle’s deceased mother while following the clues. This is a wonderful middle grade mystery series that will appeal to anyone that enjoys the Enola Holmes books.
Kat
28 Summers by Elin Hilderbrand
It goes over 28 years. She has a weekend affair once a year like the movie. They loved each other but he married the girl who was with his twin sister when she died. The lady he was having a affair with had a son by someone else and he had a daughter with his wife. Then the lady he was having the affair with was going to die. Her son called the number she left him. Her lover came at the very end of the book and the son and daughter met each other and liked each other. It was a really good book but sad, too.
Bev
The Mystery of Mrs. Christie by Marie Benedict
Skillfully written, alternating voice interpretation of the eleven days when Agatha Christie went missing. Clues are sprinkled logically throughout the story, leading to a clever conclusion.
Laurel
Spare by Prince Harry
It's an honest commentary about life under a microscope, with paparazzi staking out your every move. Harry was only 13 when his mother died, and it's painfully apparent how much he misses her love. There's much to learn here about his military service, too.
Charlene
The Gown by Jennifer Robson
Wonderful story about the sewing of Queen Elizabeth’s wedding gown. It tells the story of seamstresses who were experts in making lace designs but would go unknown. It’s also a nice mix of history at the time brought forward in time with the curiosity of the seamstress's granddaughter. Well written.
Linda
The Mitford Affair by Marie Benedict
This historical fiction novel focuses on three of the Mitford sisters during the 1930s pre-WWII timeline. I knew of the Mitford family from Nancy Mitford's mostly autobiographical novel, THE PURSUIT OF LOVE. They are fascinating! Nancy is alarmed when her two sisters' fascist politics draw them into Hitler's inner circle. The author questions how personal are our politics and which is right - loyalty to family or country. She manages to be mostly nonjudgmental in her portrayal of these young women.
Melissa
Whispers and Lies by Joy Fielding
I read it very quickly so that shows how much I got into it, but was a little disappointed with a few things. It also annoyed me that the author was obviously Canadian so used some Canadian terms, which is fine, but the main character is American so you know she wouldn't use those terms.
Donna
Do No Harm by Robert Pobi
Carol mentioned in one of her newsletters that her husband was enjoying a book by Robert Pobi (CITY OF WINDOWS) so I thought my husband might like it, too. We both have really enjoyed the three books in this series about Lucas Page, an astophysicist who was badly injured many years ago while helping the FBI solve a crime. This last book, DO NO HARM, was my favorite. Very different premise and I hope Pobi gives Lucas enough body parts to keep him coming back.
Clare
The Great Circle by Maggie Shipstead
Gorgeous novel with epic canvas. The novels asks questions about what are the boundaries for a person's life, how far can we go, what is possible and where are the limits to our potential? While mainly focusing on a fictional biography of a 20 C female pilot, pushing back against gender boundaries of what women can and cannot do, Shipstead also considers the possibilities for her characters and the limitations imposed upon them by social and sexual restrictions and by world war. All characters dream of escape but escape will take different forms and for some, it will take them somewhere they never dreamed of going, geographically and emotionally.
Sheree
The House of Eve by Sadeqa Johnson
I love a good family saga and this was it. I loved all the characters and how the story all came together. I love this author and she continues to write excellent books! I would highly recommend it!
Chris
Our Woman in Moscow by Beatriz Williams
Very engaging story!
Michelle
The 100 Years of Lenni and Margot by Marianne Cronin
3.5 stars for me. The first half was a bit of a slog, but the second half I was pulled into Margot's story and felt compelled to finish to find out what happened. The end was beautifully done, very touching. The concept of the story - of a young terminally ill girl and an elderly terminal woman, coming together to tell and paint their stories equaling 100 years together - was clever and sweet. I think the execution of it was hard to pull off though. Perhaps it was because I listened to the audio version and it may have come through better in reading the actual book. The ending made the story worthwhile enough, though sad.
Sonia
Buried in a Good Book by Tamara Berry
Good cozy mystery with more mystery than cozy - just how I like them!
Jean
M is for Malice by Sue Grafton
This continues the misadventures of female PI Kinsey Millhone. One thing I realized reading this book is how much the detailed descriptions of everything and everyone distort the timeline. From time to time, Grafton points out how many days have passed since Kinsey started working on the case. Typically only three days have elapsed and the book is halfway finished.
Marcie
The Magnificent Lives of Marjorie Post by Allison Pataki
A wonderful story about the life of Marjorie Post, the heiress to the Post cereal fortune. It starts with her as a young girl and follows her life. It is very well done.
Karen
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
Elizabeth spills out funny, sarcastic, and dry humor almost all the way through the book. The ending gets serious. She faces discrimination from a lot of the men in her science world. She gets a chance to do a cooking show on TV and changes the studio's entire concept. Audiences love her. She meets her soulmate and then raises a daughter who is a prodigy and a dog who is her protector.
Michelle
Meredith, Alone by Claire Alexander
If you enjoyed ELINOR OLIPHANT IS COMPLETELY FINE, you will love this book by Claire Alexander. Meredith is such a wonderful character, and I loved seeing her develop confidence and get out in the world again. It is a great commentary on how easy it is for someone to create a full life within the four walls of their home, and how important it is to reach out and support each other.
Rose
The Marriage Portrait by Maggie O'Farrell
The story of Lucrezia de Medici who was married to a duke when she was only 15. She is a smart, outspoken young woman, but the duke only wants her so she can bear an heir. When she realizes that he has taken her to a remote place with the intention of killing her, she tries to imagine how she can escape. This is a beautifully-told story of a real woman and her childhood marriage. I was entranced reading the story. I enjoyed this story better than HAMNET, which had beautiful prose.
Mary Ann
Becoming by Michelle Obama
I read this in honor of Black History Month and really enjoyed it.
Donna
The Maidens by Alex Michaelides
Mariana is a group therapist and when she receives a call from her niece, Zoe, who was raised by Mariana and her deceased husband. She drops everything to help her. Zoe is away at college and there has been brutal murder of a female student. Zoe believes she knows who the murderer is and becomes more fearful when another student is murdered. Mariana begins to investigate and she agrees with Zoe though there isn’t any solid evidence to convict their suspect and Mariana intends to stop the killing. This novel is filled with Greek mythology and symbolism.
Donna
On Bur Oak Ridge by Jenny Knipfer
1919: Molly and Samuel are both carrying scars. She has external scars and they both carry internal scars. They meet and the attraction is instantaneous, but there are complications. Molly’s husband left her five years ago and she doesn’t know where he is or if he’s dead or alive. He reappears to claim her. Molly struggles with obligations and her limited options. This is a nice story even though the characters experience great heartache.
Donna
The Lemon Sisters by Jill Shalvis
Brooke and Mindy are referred to as the Lemon sisters by everyone they know. They grew up together and were very close. When they became adults their lives took different paths. Brooke was a risk taker and made a living photographing dangerous places. Mindy was married to a doctor and had three children and was at the breaking point of exhaustion when she appeared at Brooke’s door. Brooke had left her hometown seven years prior without an explanation to anyone and knew that she needed to go back and make amends. This novel is about family, life, secrets, relationships, forgiveness and love.
Donna
West With Giraffes by Lynda Rutledge
This touching and powerful story is told by Woody Nickel at the age of 105 years of age. His story begins 1n 1938 when he was 17 years old and on his own at the time of the Depression and the Dust Bowl. He had lost everyone and everything. Two giraffes had just arrived at a New York port having survived a hurricane during shipment from Africa. Woody met up with the man in charge of delivering these giraffes to the San Diego Zoo who needed a driver of the truck. Woody wasn’t familiar with driving a truck, but lied so he could follow a dream of living in California. This novel tells of his harrowing and coming-of-age adventure on the road.
Donna
Such a Pretty Girl by T. Greenwood
1976: Fiona desperately wants to be in the movies. She moves from Vermont to NYC with her daughter, Ryan, so she can go on auditions. She is not successful. Ryan is beautiful and looks older than her age of 10 years. She is noticed by an woman that encourages Fiona to pursue modeling and acting for Ryan. Ryan is very photographic and Fiona lives vicariously through Ryan’s success. 2019: A newspaper publishes an expose titled, Mother or Monster? The FBI is searching for Fiona because of her relationship with people who were pedophiles and sex-traffickers when she was promoting Ryan’s career. Ryan confronts her mother and is told that everything she did was to protect her. Was she a mother or a monster?
Donna
Body of Evidence by Rachel Grant
Mara is an archeologist in North Korea searching for bodies of missing military when she ventures into forbidden territory. She is standing in front of a firing squad when a man representing the US State Department appears and rescues her seconds before she is to be shot. Curt, is the prosecutor against her beloved uncle, a father figure and former Vice President, who is to be tried the following week for influence-peddling and coverup in selling arms. This trial is Curt’s biggest trial and will likely make him the next Attorney General. It is important that Mara testify against her uncle putting them at odds since she is refusing to testify. Someone makes multiple attempts to kill the two of them before the trial and no one can be trusted.
Donna
Deadly Secrets by OMJ Ryan
Marty Michaels has been a popular radio show host for 20 years who has exposed many celebrities and politicians. He has made many enemies throughout his career and someone has set him up as a murderer. He finds that he doesn’t trust anyone, not even his best friend. Someone wants Michael dead. This is a fast-paced, page-turning psychological mystery and thriller.
Donna
The Sacrifice by Kitty Thomas
Macy is a 30-year-old nerdy librarian who made a pact with a college classmate that they would marry each other if they weren’t married by the age of 30. As she plans her wedding, she is kidnapped by a man who claims that she belongs to him and is to be a sacrifice. Macy is obsessed with erotic fantasies and is drawn to this mysterious and dangerous stranger. This is a dark and twisted romantic novel.
Donna
Friends Like These by Kimberly McCreight
Ten years ago, six college friends witnessed a tragedy, didn’t report it and are bound by this secret. They will do anything to protect each other. They have gathered for a weekend intervention, disguised as a bachelor party, for one of the group who is an addict. Sunday morning, one of the friends is found dead in a car in the woods and another is missing. The investigator of the crime believes that the group isn’t telling her everything and is determined to get to the truth. This is a twisted story of friendship, obsessive love, secrets, lies and betrayal.
Donna
You Will Know Me by Megan Abbott
Devon is the best student at the gym and is a hopeful for the Olympics. She and her parents are committed to making this happen and their lives revolve around this goal. There is a tragic death of one of the workers at the gym that occurs just before the tryouts of an important competition. Devon knows she is different and doesn’t allow the rumors and jealously of others distract her. Her parents will do anything to help Devon achieve her dream. This novel gives you an inside view of the dedication, sacrifices and work that is involved by those who strive to be special.
Donna
The Family Game by Catherine Steadman
Harry (Harriet) is feeling so blessed. She’s writing a novel that’s sure to be a success and is in love with, Edward, a handsome and very wealthy man. She’s been carrying a secret from 20 years ago and believes its her secret alone. The winter holidays are near and it’s time for Harry to meet Edward’s family. The family is very unusual and have a tradition of playing games. These games are psychologically revealing and can be deadly. Someone knows Harry’s secret and trusts her with their own personal secrets. This novel was a twisted psychological thriller.
Donna
The Prisoner by B. A. Paris
Amelia’s father passes away and she is an orphan with no other family. She is a survivor and decides to move from Paris to London. She gets a job at prestigious magazine and is saving money to attend law school. Her billionaire boss, Nat, makes her an offer that would solve her money problems. She is to become his wife in a marriage of convenience for one month, then she would get a divorce. She accepts his offer and her nightmare begins. She becomes his prisoner and they both become prisoners when they are kidnapped. This is a fast read and a very twisted and complicated story.
Donna
The Renter by Emily Shiner
Vera is a senior citizen and wants to locate in Green Pines. Allison and Tate have decided to rent out their basement in order to accumulate some extra money so they can travel. Allison is more anxious and doesn’t want to check references for Vera. After Vera moves in, Tate begins to be suspicious of Vera and can’t find anything on the internet about her. This causes friction between Allison and Tate. Vera has been in hiding for 30 years because of something she did. She takes Allison’s side and the consequences are deadly.
Donna
The Favor by Nicci French
Liam was Jude’s first love when she was a teenager. He took responsibility for an automobile accident that wasn’t his fault. They hadn’t seen or contacted each other for 11 years. Liam finds Jude and asks for a favor which she can choose to accept or not. When he explains part of it to her, it sounds very suspicious to the reader, though Jude decides to follow through to help him. Liam is murdered the same time she is expecting to see him to learn what the favor entails. She is designated to be the executor of his estate and delves into his bizarre life to find answers. This is story that includes an unusual lifestyle and there are several suspects.
Donna
State of Lies by Siri Mitchell
Georgie’s husband, Sean, has been declared dead after being in a hit and run automobile accident. Sean had worked for various government agencies and Georgie is a physicist. She knows that there is an answer for everything and often things are not as they seem. She is suspicious about his death as things aren’t adding up and she begins to investigate. Georgie discovers that she cannot trust anyone, not even her parents. This is a mystery involving espionage, lies, spies and intrigue.
Donna
The Scandal by Nicola Marsh
Marisa, Claire and Elly are best friends living in the Hamptons. They meet for wine, cheese and to gossip calling themselves a Garden Club. They are an unlikely group of friends who each carry a longtime secret. Jodi, a young, pregnant girl, arrives in town seeking the father of her baby and is soon found murdered. Claire is a policewoman and takes on the case which gets complicated as progresses and her friends secrets begin to surface. This story includes friendships, drugs, rape, secrets, betrayals and murder.
Donna
Bridge of Sighs by Laura Morelli
Venice, 1610. A very short story and how the Black Plague is handled when it strikes a household.
Donna
Intuition by Marala Scott and Alyssa Curry
This was an interesting novel based on true events. I’ve always been aware of the feeling of intuition, but didn’t think much about it. This book informs the reader what intuition means, where it comes from, why you should listen to it and how it affects your life. Included in the story is an experience with a kidnapper who planned to murder the author and her daughter.
Donna
The Boys from Biloxi by John Grisham
Biloxi was a popular resort town with wonderful restaurants and later became known for its illegal activities ranging from gambling to murder. Keith and Hugh grew up together as best friends into their teens when they drifted apart. Keith’s father was a well respected lawyer and Hugh’s father owned several bars that served more than illegal liquor. The activities were ignored by the corrupt law enforcement officials. Jesse, Keith’s father, was determined to clean up the town. Keith and Hugh each followed their fathers footsteps. This novel delves into the time consuming challenges and inner workings of the law and their efforts to bring justice to criminals.
Donna
The Weekenders by Mary Kay Andrews
Belle Isle is a small island off the coast of NC where people spend their summers or weekends. Riley’s family has a home on the island and have been spending summers there for several generations. Riley’s husband has big ideas of turning the island into a resort against Riley’s advice. Behind her back, he borrows from others and ends up going bankrupt and is murdered. This is a cozy mystery and a book to be read at the beach.
Donna
So Happy Together by Deborah K. Shepherd
Caro is married to a successful lawyer and they have three children. Her marriage isn’t satisfying her and she’s decided that she must leave her family to see an old love from 20 years ago when she was in college. She was in love with Peter and he loved her, but not in the same way as she loved him. She was obsessed with Peter and needed to find him and see how he was doing and if there was a chance for them to be together. This is a story of ambition, friendship, love, loss, growth and discovery of the meaning of contentment. How unusual is it for people to fantasize about their first love?
Jill
All We Ever Wanted by Emily Giffin
This is, in some ways, a typical ripped-from-the-headlines story of how a teen girl was raped at a party and a photo of her is taken, showing her in a compromising position, and sent out via a phone text. The aftermath is the author's main concern. She gives some attention to Lyla, of whom the photo is taken, but primarily focuses her attention to the effects of this on Lyla's dad, Tom, and on the mother of the boy who took the photo. They each reevaluate their parenting and their lives after this incident happens and come to the realization that they are not living the lives they want and of how they transition into who they truly are. Attention is given to weighty issues, but the book reads smoothly and comes to a satisfying conclusion.
Tessa
Iona Iverson's Rules For Commuting by Clare Pooley
This is a delightful ensemble piece featuring Iona Iverson, a woman of a certain age, who has long held a position as an advice columnist, and the other regular riders of a particular tube route in London. I really liked all these characters, even the insufferable Piers, and enjoyed watching how their expanded circle of friendship affected each of them. I worried for some of them as their backstories unfolded and cheered them all on as they emerged from their troubles, and all vowed to “be more Iona.” It’s my own new rallying cry!
Jeanne
The Last Dance of the Debutante by Julia Kelly
THE LAST DANCE OF THE DEBUTANTE by Julia Kelly is entertaining, easy to read and intriguing historical fiction novel that focuses on Lily Nicholls as she turns 18 and, much to her dismay, is one of the debutantes who will be presented in 1958 at the last coming out party held at the palace by the Queen of England and the Duke of Edinburgh. The author did an excellent job in her research and the character development was very good. It was fascinating to read about all the lavish parties and balls the debutantes had to attend as well as reading about and imagining all the beautiful dresses, gowns and jewelry they wore as their parents hoped they would find suitable husbands when they were introduced into society.
Rose
Everybody Knows by Jordan Harper
Wow, wow, wow! This was an explosive thriller, exposing the dark underbelly of the fast-paced world of Los Angeles and the film industry, drugs, politics, dirty cops, and more. Mae works for a firm that is hired to bury the bad news - actresses and actors who have been caught in poor situations and make them go away. But, when her boss comes to her with a proposition, she is intrigued. However, when something happens to him, she strikes out on her own, along with her ex-boyfriend, Chris, an ex-cop, and investigates. What she uncovers is a network of people willing to do anything to win at any cost. The destruction and horror left in their path is frightening. Mae struggles to get out from under it, but can she? I loved this gritty novel!
Gerry
I Know This Much Is True by Wally Lamb
Well-written, mostly engaging family saga centered on twin brothers who grow up as friends and rivals until one begins to show increasing signs of emotional disability, and is eventually diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia. The familial dysfunctional that may or may not have contributed to Thomas' illness goes back for generations, and is revealed in a complicated narrative of the twins' own lives and then separately, of their grandfather's and his family's lives. Woven into the story are snippets of history from much of the twentieth century, from WWII and the Korean War to the fall of the Soviet Union, as well as themes of racial oppression related to Black and Indigenous people. Very long but worth reading.
Gerry
The Book of Everlasting Things by Aanchal Malhotra
4-1/2 stars. This was a beautifully-written story that spanned a full century, from the battlefields of World War I, to the post World War II partition of Hindustan that created the modern countries of India and Pakistan, to the second decade of the 21st century. It traced the lives of two families, the Hindu Vij family of perfumers and the Muslim Khan family of calligraphers from the markets of Lahore to Paris. The characters in this novel are well-developed, and the vivid descriptive detail about their surroundings made brings the city and countryside to life. The novel moves forward at a steady pace to a bittersweet conclusion that I found just perfect. I recommend this book highly to those who enjoy historical fiction and family sagas.
Gerry
A World of Curiosities by Louise Penny
The darkest and most complex novel of Three Pines yet. It’s a carefully plotted, multi-layered mystery with elements that recall for the reader Gamache’s tragic loss of his parents during childhood, to his decision to transfer to the homicide division of the Surete, to his first encounter with Jean-Guy Beauvoir, and to his similar rescue of Amelia Choquet. And through it all runs a deep exploration of the power of forgiveness, a quality with which many of Penny’s characters (and she herself, she acknowledges) often struggle.
Even after so many books, the characters of Three Pines continue to develop in this latest installment. Ruth Zardo, in particular, became less caricature and more real. A pleasure spending days in Three Pines!
Gerry
Foster by Claire Keegan
This short novel is the second I’ve read by Claire Keegan, and again she demonstrates her ability to evoke strong emotions in simple prose. In FOSTER, a young girl is abruptly dropped off by her father at the home of her mother’s sister and brother-in-law. It’s not clear why the couple have been asked to foster her, nor for how long. It was heartwarming to see relationships develop among these three characters, and sad to witness their emotions at the girl's equally abrupt departure. This bittersweet story leaves questions unanswered about the girl’s past but leaves room for much hope about her future.
Gerry
Faithful Place by Tana French
Excellent mystery set in Dublin. Twenty-plus years ago, Rosie and Frank were planning to elope and run of to London. But she failed to meeting him and left a note saying she was going on her own. Frank, too, left the old neighborhood, and eventually joined the police force. When her suitcase is discovered in one of their old meeting places, Frank returns home and launches his own investigation. Listening to the audiobook, with the lilting Irish accent, was a delightful experience. I enjoyed it so much I moved right on to the next book in this series.
Gerry
Broken Harbor by Tana French
Another compelling mystery set in Dublin. I found the characters a bit less likable, but the plot was sufficiently complex that it was very late in the book before I felt comfortable that the case really was solved. So many twists and turns! A gruesome murder, or perhaps a murder/suicide, brings Det. Mick Kennedy back to the town where his own family once vacationed, and resurrect disturbing memories from his own childhood.
Gerry
Call of the Penguins by Hazel Prior
This sequel to HOW THE PENGUINS SAVED VERONICA (which I rated 5-stars) provides a heartwarming story as it follows the adventures of nearly-ninety-year-old Veronica and her young protege Daisy into the southern hemisphere to film a documentary about the threat to seabirds caused by climate change. 3-1/2 stars.
Gerry
Windfall: The Prairie Woman Who Lost Her Way and the Great-Granddaughter Who Found Her by Erika Bolstad
I found the memoir quite unfocused, with much less time given to the actual story of the author's search for information about her grandmother (whom she'd never known) than I'd hoped for. The bulk of the book was devoted to details about the oil industry (financial corruption, bending or ignoring regulations, environmental impact, racial inequity, etc.), all of which was interesting, but not what the book's subtitle led me to expect. The author wrote often about her own struggles with infertility, her journalistic ambitions and other reporting projects, and social justice issues that were much in the news during the time she was writing this book. In the last couple of hours of listening, I found myself speeding up the audiobook to finish.
Gerry
The Buffalo Soldier by Chris Bohjalian
4-1/2 stars for a compelling family drama. I thought I'd read all of Chris Bohjalian's novels, but it seems I somehow missed this one, and it's one of his best. Terry and Laura Sheldon are happily married, enjoying life with their 9-year old twin girls, when tragedy strikes. Still grieving their loss, each in their own way, they agree to take in a foster child, a 10-year-old Black boy who's been bounced from one foster home to another through no fault of his own. The developing relationship with Alfred, the ongoing stress between Terry and Laura, other family drama, and the positive influence of an older neighbor couple are all portrayed in vivid prose that brought each character to life and kept the suspense high.
Gerry
The Trespasser by Tana French
This final installment in the Dublin Murder Squad series was not my favorite, but was mostly an interesting read. It involved a complicated investigation, fraught with internal intrigue and lots of red herrings. Two of the newest detectives on the squad are assigned to a case that looks at first glance like a "routine domestic" and are pressured by a senior detective to arrest the victim's girlfriend. As the two continue to investigate, they go continually back and forth between believing the boyfriend guilty and believing there must be some other reason why they're being pressured to close the case quickly. But none of the characters was particularly endearing, and the narrative went on for too long. Satisfying ending, so 3-1/2 stars.
Gerry
Four Treasures of the Sky by Jenny Tinghui Zhang
3-1/2 stars. A difficult novel to read because of the many horrific events endured by Daiyu, the main character. She was kidnapped from the streets of China; smuggled across the ocean in a keg of coal, bound and gagged, offered food and drink and a brief respite from being closed in the keg only every third day; and finally sold to a brothel in San Francisco. At that point, I almost put it aside as too depressing to continue. But when reviews that made it clear Daiyu escaped from the brothel, I decided to persist. The remainder of the book followed Daiyu as she repeatedly reinvented herself, finding ways to survive in a country that was far from welcoming to Chinese immigrants. The history belies the "melting pot" image taught to children.
Gerry
Fatty Fatty Boom Boom: A Memoir of Food, Fat, and Family by Rabia Chaudry
An engaging memoir by a woman I admire for her advocacy and legal work, describing her decades-long struggle with her food addiction, and how she finally came to a place of self-care and self-acceptance.
Gerry
Yonder by Jabari Asim
This novel re-creates the world of enslaved people in the American South in the years prior to the Civil War with startling immediacy and powerfully-drawn characters. The enslaved call themselves Stolen, while their white enslavers are called Thieves, clearly expressing the true nature of the relationship between the two groups. The Stolen in Asim's novel suffer brutal treatment, physical punishments that rise to the level of torture, and the ever-present fear of losing a loved-one who is sold to another Thief and taken to a far off location.An element of magical realism is woven into the story by the presence of Ancestors who encourage and guide some of the Stolen, appearing especially during times of greatest hardship. Great writing!
Gerry
The White Darkness by David Grann
An amazing biography of Henry Worsley, a British soldier/adventurer/artist who as a youth became enamoured of Ernest Shackelton and as an adult set out to recreate and to finish Shackelton's 1915 trek across Antarctica to the South Pole. In 2015, along with two other descendants of Shackelton and his crew, Worsley succeeded in that quest, conquering the most barren landscape on earth. The story of that journey, and an even longer one that followed, this time with Worsley completely on his own, make for exciting reading. The text is enhanced with gorgeous photographs from both Shackelton's and Worsley's expeditions, showing the beauty and isolation of this cold continent.
Beth
Trust by Hernan Diaz
TRUST is a really difficult book for me to review because I’m not sure that I understand it correctly. It can be considered to be a novel written by Hernan Diaz. It consists of four stories: a novel written by the fictitious Harold Vanner, an autobiography (actually more fiction) written by the fictitious Andrew Bevel, a memoir (actually more fiction ) written by the fictitious Ida Partenza, and a diary (again, more fiction) written by the fictitious Mildred Bevel. These stories make up the entirety of TRUST. They are not just stories within a story but, rather, stories that are the story. They are accompanied by no explanation but leave the reader to guess and not fully understand until almost the end.
Marjorie
The Marriage Game by Fern Michaels
This book was really two stories in one and the two only connect at the very end, which was a total surprise. It begins with a woman meeting, getting married, and honeymoon in just a few weeks. The groom files for divorce two weeks after the honeymoon was over, much to the woman's surprise. Then she realizes that he has four other ex-wives that he has done the same thing to. They meet and from there are recruited to a special forces training unit. They are paid a lot of money to give up a year of their time to train on an isolated mountain. After the year is over, that is when the first part of this book connects to the beginning and they find seven other ex-wives. They dealt with the ex-husband in a clever way.
Rita
Anxious People by Fredrik Backman
I couldn't put ANXIOUS PEOPLE down. I read it every moment I had. The story has mystery, hard ache, love, death and everything in between. I fell in love with the characters and I cared about what was happening to them. ANXIOUS PEOPLE had plenty of quirky moments, laughter and it's just a wonderful read. I can only say read it, if you have the time, because you won't regret taking the time to read it.
Joan
Destiny of the Republic by Candace Millard
Medical care was so dismal. Very sad, but true book.
Rose
Not a Happy Family by Shari Lapena
Quick read about a wealthy family with three children. The parents, Fred and Sheila, have invited their three children for Easter dinner. Catherine, a physician, and her husband, Ted, Dan, unemployed, and his wife Lisa, and Jenna, an artist, and her friend Jake, all attend dinner, but it is a tense affair. The father, having sold his business so Dan couldn't get it, is now planning to sell the house, which Catherine wanted. Fred tells them all how disappointed he is in them.
The next day, the parents are found dead in their home, and the children will inherit millions. Fred's sister, Audrey, claims Fred was changing his will to give her more, and there is another surprise, too. All had a motive, but who did it? One of her better novels.
Laura
One Month of You by Suzanne Ewart
A very light but challenging romance set against a very fatal disease. Kept my interest. Read it in two days!
Rose
November Road by Lou Berney
I am usually a fan of Lou Berney, but this one didn't do it for me. It is set during the time of the JFK assassination, and a man is sent to do cleanup after the fact - to erase any trace of connection to his crime bosses. Meanwhile, the man is he chasing is traveling across the country and meets Charlotte, a woman with two young children, who is driving to CA to escape her marriage. "Frank" and Charlotte, a budding photographer, find solace with each other. However, there was a lot of murder, and graphic violence, and I struggled through that.
Linda
The Midnight Library by Matt Haig
How many times have you wanted "a do over"? Nora Seed is given that chance - will she make the right choice?
Barbara
Very Cold People by Sarah Manguso
I struggled with how to rate this book. If I could, I would give it a 3.5. It was an interesting and fast read. The writing style is one that causes the reader to keep rushing forward for the next bit, but I felt like none of the characters were really flushed out, not even the leading lady. And the ending seemed rushed. But, at the same time, I wanted to know more about what happened to all the characters in the story. One I will think about for a bit but not sure I would recommend it to anyone.
Sherri
Breakfast of Champions by Kurt Vonnegut
Bitter social commentary. Released in 1972, it's still very relevant today.
dorothy
Words Can Kill by Ken Davis
Good main characters and interesting storyline.
Mindy
Out of the Clear Blue Sky by Kristan Higgins
Fun book to read. Really enjoyed it. Looking forward to reading more books by this author.
Rose
All the Children Are Home by Patry Francis
This is a story of a family in the late 1950s-60s, who foster children since they can't have any biological children. Ma doesn't want any girls, but does get Agnes and Zaidie. Agnes is an Indian girl that no one will adopt. Zaidie and her brother Jon come to the family because their mother died and their father had left. Ma will not leave the house due to trauma experienced when she was in high school. The way this family looks out for each other is heartwarming and the tragic circumstances that brought them all together is truly heartbreaking. I loved how they drew on each other's strength.
Rose
Take Command: Find Your Inner Strength, Build Enduring Relationships, and Live the Life You Want by Joe Hart and Michael A. Crom
This is a self-help book, but also a book to help you make positive changes in your personal life, work life, and to make a difference in the world. The authors give a series of examples, citing people who have come up against obstacles and have found a way to move beyond them. They name famous people as well as ordinary people who have taken command of their lives. At the end of each chapter, they provide steps for you to take to put this advice into practice. Things like setting a routine, establishing trust, examining your choices. I found some of this advice to be thought-provoking, and it has me thinking of ways to put it into practice.
Francisca
The Most Beautiful Girl in Cuba by Chanel Cleeton
For her fourth book featuring a member of the Perez family, Cleeton turned to history and one exceptional Cuban woman – Evangelina Cisneros – who was instrumental in the fight to liberate Cuba from Spanish rule. Basing most of the novel of actual events, Cleeton filled in with two fictional characters: journalist Grace Harrington, and Marina Perez, a Cuban caught in the conflict between Spain and those seeking independence for the island.
Linda
Stone Blind by Natalie Haynes
A good story about Greek mythology, showing the childish and fickle nature of badly behaving gods. Great entertaining characters that are well-developed. I loved it. Great for fans of CIRCE, A THOUSAND SHIPS, and THE SONG OF ACHILLES.
Shelly
Letters of Trust by Wanda E. Brunstetter
Eleanor and Vic Lapp got married in Grabill, Indiana. She knew she would be moving to her new home In Paradise, Pennsylvania with her husband. She was sad to leave her best friend Dorett but they had promised they would stay close by writing to each other. Things seem to be going well for the newlyweds, although Eleanor, had hoped to be pregnant by now. Eleanor gets along very well with her mother-in-law, Susie. Susie has five children of ranging in age from 27 down to Eddie her youngest who will be eight on his next birthday. One day there lives are turned upside down when a very serious accident happens. Vic feels he is responsible for the accident and starts drinking to dull the guilt.
Stefanie
The Fervor by Alma Katsu
Katsu did another excellent job of interweaving suspense with historical events to highlight the systemic racism that existed in the U.S. during WWII when it came to U.S. citizens of Japanese descent. Although I appreciated the application of Japanese folklore into the story, I felt like this was one area where she could've expanded to make the story richer. Instead, I feel like it was an untapped area that left the story more two-dimensional. It was also not as suspenseful as her other books, like THE HUNGER, which Katsu acknowledges at the end. This made it less exciting.
Rita
Orchid Beach by Stuart Woods
Holly Barker and her dad's lives are changed when they both moved to Orchid Beach. Holly was hired by Chet Marley to be the deputy chief of police in Orchid Beach. When Holly arrived five weeks later to start her new job she arrives only to discover that Chet Marley, the chief of police, was murdered. What a way to start your new job. Holly's dad arrives a few weeks later to Orchid Beach as a total surprise and announces he has retired from the military. This story involves murders, politics, a few corrupt police persons and a love story. I found this book to be an easy, fun and tip-top cozy mystery.
SUSAN
The Shack by Wm Paul Young
This book saved my life.
Rose
A Quiet Life by Ethan Joella
three people, all grieving a lost one, try to move on with their lives. Chuck's wife, Cat, died last spring, and he is lost without her. He recalls an argument with Cat, about a young girl, Natasha, and he feels he needs to make amends. Kirsten's dad was murdered at a Philadelphia gas station. She misses him dearly, and looks for a sign from him. Ella's daughter, Riley, was taken, and she desperately wants her home. All three struggle with moving on, and their paths cross each other, and together, they hope they are able to move forward. A heartwarming, sweet book.
Suzanne
Murder at Black Oaks by Phillip Margolin
This book was a murder mystery in the style of Agatha Christie. Very good book, just not my usual genre.
beth
The Maid by Nita Prose
Incredible insight throughout. Cleverly written with stunning characterization. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who would listen. Kudos to the author. More from her, please.
Elizabeth
When the Moon Turns Blue by Pamela Terry
Not a favorite. I liked her other book better, THE SWEET TASTE OF MUSCADINES. An ice storm in Georgia? Definitely something that shuts down an entire town and keeps everyone in. Someone was out, though.
Marilyn
The Alice Network by Kate Quinn
A touching story of the the women who acted as spies during the wars. Great character development.
Kimberley
The Third Daughter by Talia Carner
This author has shared the dark secret and deplorable history of the early twentieth century Buenos Aires. The reader follows Batya, a young teenage Russian Jew as her father is tricked into selling her to a wealthy stranger under the guise of marriage and a beautiful passage to America. Sadly, she and hundreds of Jewish girls were kidnapped and exploited in Argentina. It is an interesting read with lots of unexpected twists and turns.
Rose
The Frederick Sisters Are Living the Dream by Jeannie Zusy
Maggie's older sister, Ginny, is intellectually disabled, and when she needs care, Maggie moves Ginny to NY to live near her. She becomes a caregiver for Ginny, but Ginny doesn't want Maggie's help, resisting her suggestions at every turn. Maggie is a mess, agonizing over her decisions, children, job, ex-husband, love life. Maggie means well, but doesn't seem to have a great handle on things. Ginny loves sweets but she is diabetic, which increases her risks. She also loves a dog, Rascal, and a baby doll. She is also known to place orders on Amazon, and has an obsession with hot men and sex. Also touches on another sister, Bets, who lives in CA, and isn't keen on the idea of Maggie taking Ginny to NY. Some sweet moments.
Debbie
The Silent Spring by Rachel Carson
A huge eye-opener provided by Rachel Carson’s THE SILENT SPRING. Many times Carson slips into technical language that slows the flow of the nonfiction. After reading this book published over fifty years ago, I marvel that the whole population of living things has not perished due to all the harmful ingredients dropped onto the earth. In our quest for perfect yards and the elimination of insects, we have endangered our existence. Carson plows through the landscape and educates the readers on all the dangers of insecticide, and then falls victim to the dangers herself.
Debbie
Three Act Tragedy by Agatha Christie
Another enjoyable afternoon spent reading an Agatha Christie novel. Instead of a nursery rhyme, this story features a three act play as Sir Charles Cartwright, Mr. Satterthwaite, Egg Lytton Fore, and Hercule Poirot reconstruct three deaths. Sir Charles Cartwright directs the play, since he is a well-known stage actor. During this staging of the events, Sir Charles and Egg fall in love, supposedly. Poirot jumps in and out of the scenes as a Greek chorus, explaining what transpires. Many red herrings and false assumptions, but a delightful journey to a tragic ending.
Jayme
Murder on Black Swan Lane by Andrea Penrose
Well, now I have another series to add to my TBR. I really enjoyed this historical fiction mystery. The dialogue is smart and humorous and there was depth to the plot. I would like to say that the main characters were interesting, they were fine, but it was actually the secondary characters that held my interest and I thought were more fleshed out. Can't wait to discover what happens in the next book.
Tessa
Elementary She Read by Vicki Delany
First in a new (to me, at least) series starring Gemma Doyle who is helping her great uncle Arthur run his bookshop. This has all the elements of a successful cozy mystery series, including a cute pet, in this case the black cat named Moriarty and a best friend who runs a complimentary business. I loved all the book references and thought the basic premise was sufficiently plausible to keep me interested and engaged.
Mackenzie
Peach Cobbler Murder by Joanne Fluke
I’m a huge fan of the Hannah Swenson mystery books! I enjoy the movies as well. I like baking and reading.
Karen
It Ends With Us by Colleen Hoover
Didn’t want it to end. I was so invested in these characters.
Ann Marie
On the Savage Side by Tiffany McDaniel
Wow! Just wow! I cannot wait for all of you at Bookreporter.com to read this. It's so great. It starts out with twins Acadia and Daffodil Poet as little girls living, well barely living, getting by with a mother and aunt who are heroin addicts and prostitutes. The addiction is understood by the author and she portrays it as well as she does prostitution, "the johns", and a pair of twins who are one half of the other. And it's a book about a serial killer and loosely based on a real one and a group of four girls in Ohio. It's written in a different style and it's a refreshingly unique book. I recommend this book to all!
Nancy
Life After Truth by Ceridwen Dovey
Interesting story about five former housemates from Harvard who return to campus (and their dorm room) for their 15th reunion. All kinds of interesting things happen as they attend events, visit Boston, and meet up with former classmates over the course of the weekend. The author graduated from Harvard and one of her classmates was Jared Kushner, and she’s included a character and storyline loosely based on him.
Jane
Go Ask Fannie by Elisabeth Hyde
Another dysfunctional family book. Three siblings, Ruth, George, and Lizzie all go to visit their father who lives in New Hampshire. Lizzie is the youngest and lives nearby. George and Ruth live in Boston and Washington, DC. Murray, the father, invites Ruth and George to come and intervene with Lizzie and her much older boyfriend to break them up. They all have different personalities and lives but they try to get along now that they are older, but there are still resentments. A lot happens in this book and it goes back and forth from the present (then 2016) back to 1984 and tragedy happens. I love the title of this book and it refers to a now ruined cookbook that their mother used constantly.
Susan
The Personal Librarian by Marie Benedict
A interesting read!!!
Cynthia
The Recipe Box by Viola Shipman
Touching.
Darlene
Guests On Earth by Lee Smith
I expected more.
Michelle
Troublemaker: Surviving Hollywood and Scientology by Leah Remini
Wow. What a crazy look into the unbelievable cult of Scientology. Leah is a brave, no nonsense warrior, who, unlike many before her, had the smarts and guts to question authority and find her way out of the crazy religion. I wish the book continued to today so I could hear more of what she’s uncovered, and I plan to watch some of her shows. It is crazy to me that intelligent people in today’s age could fall victim to such brainwashing. Bravo to Leah for being her true self, a definite rebel in the most positive sense, and for taking things this far. I hope this paved the way for others to do the same. And for the love of God, I hope they find that Shelly woman!
Teresa
Spare by Prince Harry
I can’t get over how honest he is about what he’s done in his life.
Jackie
The Boys from Biloxi by John Grisham
Not one of Grisham’s best, in my opinion. I’m usually able to breeze through his books, but this one I was tempted to quit a few times.
Joan
Horse by Geraldine Brooks
Strong characters, in different time periods, push forward this beautiful story of a real-life horse and all his connections. Weaving together themes of horse racing and race relations in both pre-civil war era and current times, Brooks does her usual amazing research to bring to life this incredibly moving story!
Jayme
I Know an Old Lady by Margaret Standafer
I really enjoyed this book. The characters were honest and fleshed out and the setting was spot-on. Standafer's description of the Fourth of July parade and celebration in a small town had me Googling the author's background because she perfectly described the many small-town parades that I had attended as a child. I knew she had to be a Midwest girl. I will be reading more from this author.
Elizabeth
My Father’s House by Joseph O’Connor
This book is in right my wheelhouse. I was brought up in Pre-Vatican II the Catholic Church and while knowledge of that time is not necessary, it is helpful. The plot toggles back and forth in time, with the main characters filling in details through interviews. This is the first in a trilogy. I’m interested to see where it goes next.
Sharon
The Big Thirst by Charles Fishman
Published in 2011, this nonfiction assessment of the uses and abuses of water on this planet is fascinating, intriguing, and downright scary as I suspect our abuse of water has not improved much if any since Fishman's research. Well worth reading in this time of climate crisis.
Cynthia
Someone Else's Shoes by Jojo Moyes
Full of funny moments, covers many topics we can all relate too.
Eileen
The Library Book by Susan Orlean
Very interesting book about the fire that almost destroyed the LA Central Library in 1986 and chronicles the pursuit of the possible arsonist, Harry Peak. But this is not only the story of the fire. It's also a history of the LA Central Library and gives the reader a look into the lives of librarians who worked there and led the library both before and after the fire. It also takes a look at how libraries serve their communities.
Melinda
The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides
This was a real page-turner for me. It was recommended by a friend and I loved it.
Lori
Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin
Good story about friendship through the years. Might have been a bit more enjoyable if I was a gamer but good read just the same.
Barbara
The Secret of Rainy Days by Leslie Hooton
My first book by Leslie Hooton but the start of reading every one of them! I wanted to stay with this story when it ended and found it hard to move on to my next read. Leslie makes you feel like you are living right beside her characters. Each one is unique and not all of them are likeable. You will find a friend in one of them.
MH
Horse by Geraldine Brooks
What a magnificent horse! And I had no idea he existed. Although I am not a fan of alternating viewpoints, this one worked. The main part of the story, set before the War Between the States, tells the story of the stallion, from birth through his racing career, always accompanied by his trainer, Jarret. Two other sections tie the story to more modern times. I learned a lot about the racing world, painting, and restoration of artifacts.
Debbie
Honor by Thrity Umrigar
This is one of the most powerful books I have ever read. What does honor mean and what would we do to ensure that our honor is secure? This is the modern-day story set in India in a small village where a young Hindu woman, Meena, is attacked by men, including her two older brothers, for marrying a Muslim man, whom they kill for marrying Meena and, thereby, destroying the honor of her brothers. After she is ostracized by her village, Meena courageously decides to sue her brothers for the death of her husband. Juxtaposed against Meena's story is the story of Smita, whose family was run out of Bombay by their neighbors (for religious reasons) and settled in America. Together they find true honor.
Maureen
Leonard and Hungry Paul by Ronan Hession
Story of two 30-something guys living at home. Both are basically kind men. Goes on to tell story of their lives. Trials and tribulations. Wasn’t sure I would like the book but after a few chapters I enjoyed reading it.
Gretchen
The Summer Getaway by Susan Mallery
I was looking for a hardcover to read (I mostly do audible books so that I can knit while listening and accomplish two things at once) and a friend suggested THE SUMMER GETAWAY. It was just what I was looking for, bringing forth all the emotions needed in a good read. I highly recommend it.
Gretchen
The Magnolia Palace by Fiona Davis
THE MAGNOLIA PALACE has been sitting on my To Be Read list so when I saw that it was coming up on a Bookaccino presentation I made it my next read. Truly enjoyed the storyline as I have with the other Fiona Davis books.
Paula
The Magnificent Lives of Marjorie Post by Allison Pataki
Very interesting story. I didn’t know anything about Marjorie Post or her background. I liked the pace of the story and didn’t get bored with it.
Betty
A Fortnight in September by R. C. Sherriff
A quiet book about a family's annual trip to the seaside. Mundane happenings beautifully told.
Sally-Jo
Tidelands by Philippa Gregory
I've read some other series from Philippa Gregory and am fascinated by the historical fiction aspect. This one is intriguing since the protagonist is not a royal figure but shows courage with unsurmountable odds against her.
Laura
The Giver of Stars by Jojo Moyes
Really enjoyed learning about the pack horse library which Mrs. Roosevelt had a big hand in starting. The characters were strong and likable, and it was a good ending.
Kathleen
Dreamland by Nancy Bilyeau
The story culminates at Dreamland, one of three parks at Coney Island where Peggy enlists the help of some of the workers. They know Stefan and she is determined to get him out of jail because she believes in his innocence. This encounter puts Peggy's life at risk. Like I said before, I love all of the author's books. This one included. Nancy's writing puts the reader right into the time period and story. I love historical fiction, my favorite genre. Nancy's words are all-encompassing and the research is impeccable. If you have not had a chance to read any of Nancy's books, what are you waiting for?
Rita
Dangerous Women by Hope Adams
This story is historical fiction and is set upon the ship Rajah, which is transporting women prisoners to Van Dieman’s Land or Tasmania as we know it today. Most of the women have been imprisoned for crimes committed to keep food on the table for them or their children. One, however, has been convicted of a more serious crime. A murder takes place and the plot revolves around discovering the murderer. The author wrote this book to give some background to a real artifact, the Rajah quilt displayed in the National Gallery in Australia. The book is engrossing though confusing at times due to the changing timeline in chapters.
Jean
Good in Bed by Jennifer Weiner
Any book in which several main characters are writers appeals to me because I am a writer. This one is full of humor and love and disappointment and ultimately happiness for the protagonist. One of the main themes is a boyfriend looking down on the protagonist because she is a large woman. Near the end I was shocked to discover she wore size 14 clothing. Today that is the average size of American women. While not thin, a woman that size can't be considered fat. Another theme I found amazing and hard to believe was the protagonist developing a close friendship with a famous person. How often does that happen in real life? But wait - this is fiction, so it's okay.
Susann
Mad Honey by Jodi Picoult and Jennifer Finney Boylan
I enjoyed this novel as I learned much about a topic far out of my comfort zone.
Donna
The Tender Bar by J. R. Moehringer
This book somehow slipped through my radar and I had never read it. I was curious after seeing the movie on Netflix and so glad I finally read the book. It's about a boy who doesn't know his father and is seeking male companionship which he gets at the bar where his uncle is a bartender. This is a memoir by Moehringer and now I will read anything he writes.
Linda
The Brutal Telling by Louise Penny
The ending of this mystery in the Chief Inspector Armand Gamache series was implausible and unimaginable in my opinion. Not as enjoyable as most of Penny's writings; but I'm still a huge fan!
Evelyn
All That Is Mine I Carry With Me by William Landay
I was so excited to read this book because I loved DEFENDING JACOB. Mr. Landay did not disappoint. It was an excellent story with twists and turns.
Susan
The Golden Couple by Greer Hendricks and Sarah Pekkanen
Avery is a therapist who lost her group practice so she decides to start her own. She only councils you for 10 sessions and you have to follow her rules to the letter. Enter Matt and Marissa who go to her to save their marriage. This book has many twists and turns that makes you wonder where it is going.
Beth
Three Women by Lisa Taddeo
This was a difficult read for me and during the first half of the book, the actions of Lina, Maggie and Sloane frustrated me- I did not like any of these women and the choices they were making. But as I read on, I realized that my own prejudices were affecting my reactions and I started to think about all the ways I, and women I have loved, or love, have made choices that place the needs of men above ours. And I was judging these women by the very same misogynist views that so many men, and women too, hold about other women. It was at the end a very thought-provoking book - well done!
Connie
Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt
A wonderful story about a giant Pacific octopus and the cleaning lady in the aquarium who grew to love him and discovered a new life through her relationship with him. Sounds crazy but well worth the read!!
Emily
All the Dark Places by Terri Parlato
Molly and her close-knit friends are celebrating joyously her husband Jay’s fortieth birthday. However, a few hours later, Jay is found dead, murdered actually, in his home office. As the investigation goes on, more twisted dark secrets from Molly’s past resurface. I was instantaneously drawn into Molly’s miserable, traumatic and vulnerable life from the first chapter. I was on the edge of my seat all the time, heart pounding, as the truth was revealed layer by layer, suspense after suspense, and intensified as pages turned, spilling out all the dark hidden secrets! I enjoyed it tremendously and highly recommend it to any thriller lovers!
Emily
Secrets So Deep by Ginny Myers Sain
I was instantly spellbound by the book title SECRETS SO DEEP that spells mystery, dark, haunting and lots of secrets! When she was five, one summer night, Avril Vincent and her mother were drowning at Whisper Cove theater; and only Avril survived. Since then, she was always haunted by bits and pieces of the memories and the ghost of her mother about that horrified tragic night. Twelve years later, Avril returns to Whisper Cove to find the answer and the missing puzzle pieces to her tragic past. Instead, she was drawn deeply into the ghostly twisty past full of dark secrets! SECRETS SO DEEP is enthralling, fascinating and spine-chilling, and will keep you up all night!
Emily
The Counselors by Jessica Goodman
Summer time at the prestigious Camp Alpine Lake is always a fun, exciting, and sisters (by choice) bonding-time activity for Goldie, Ava and Megan, as kids, as well as staffing as counselors at the same camp. However, this year, when a teen turns up dead in the lake at the camp, it changes the dynamic of Camp Alpine Lake. It complicates the situation even more when Goldie recognizes the deceased! In fact, there are layers of dark secrets and lies, betrayals and scandalous events lurking beneath this glamorous veneer of Camp Alpine Lake, waiting to be exposed! THE COUNSELORS is definitely a perfect summer-read that will send chills down your spine!
Emily
The Invitation by N. L. Hinkens
Maria, CEO of XCellNourish, together with her husband have invited Ricki and Ivy along with their spouses, to the weekend getaway at her lake house to celebrate the great achievement of the company sales. However, when a dead young woman washes up on the shore of Tamarack Creek Lake, their celebration turns into a horrendous nightmare. Everyone is a suspect now. I was instantly drawn in by the suspenseful, eye-catching cover of THE INVITATION by N.L. Hinkens. Then, THE INVITATION kept me glued to my seat, and the suspense intensified as I turned the pages. I was deeply mesmerized and held my breath till the end.
Elizabeth
The Polish Girl by Gosia Nealon
Identical twins - one who joined the Nazi Party and one who escaped. Surprises and heartbreak in this wonderful book historical fiction fans will love. Fab read - don’t miss it!!
Kay
The Paris Bookseller by Kerri Maher
Sylvia Beach's Shakespear and Company bookstore in Paris has long been a draw for tourists. Its history in this novel filled me in on how it came about, and I will definitely plan on visiting the bookstore on my next trip to Paris!
Kay
When No One Is Watching by Alyssa Cole
Very interesting take on gentrification in a Brooklyn neighborhood in this novel with terrifying events to accomplish its aim of transforming the neighborhood.
Kay
In the Name of Truth by Viveca Sten
Newly translated from the Swedish, I was delighted to follow the main characters that I had seen on the DVD series of the Sandhamn Murders! I plan to read more as they are available.
Kay
Running With Sherman by Christopher McDougall
Loved this book! Never knew I would be fascinated by the rescue of an abused donkey and learning about burro racing in Colorado. The author pulled in good information about the people involved in the rescue with side stories of their own.
Kay
The Last White Man by Mohsin Hamid
I found this story very thought-provoking about "what if" involving White people turning Black and how they are treated by those still White before everyone changes color and how Blacks were treated before the change and after. Very interesting.
Kay
Mad Honey by Jodi Picoult and Jennifer Finney Boylan
Bit by bit the plot is revealed with a wrongfully accused young man. It's a real bombshell in the middle of the trial that drives the plot to the end. Very compelling story.
Janet
13-Minute Murder by James Patterson
This was three short stories in one book. I didn't care much for any of them.
Linda
Love Her or Lose Her by Tessa Bailey
Rosie and Dominick have been married for ten years but somewhere over those years the sparkle has gone from the marriage. Many days they don't even speak to one another. Finally Rosie has had enough and tells Dominick she is leaving. She talks him into going to a marriage counselor and he has them doing assignments together that has them laughing together. Dominick can't remember the last time he heard his wife laugh. She thinks both have come clean with what's bothering them, but Dominick still hasn't told her everything. What will happen when Rosie finds out about the house?
Linda
The Friend Zone by Abby Jimenez
Kristen Peterson and Josh Copeland fell in love. He tells Kristen he has six sisters and wants a large family. Kristen has been told she will have to have a hysterectomy and that means no children. She tries to push Josh away and sees the hurt in his eyes as he doesn't understand. When she finally tells him that she will be unable to have children, he tries to reassure her but she won't listen. She is all he wants but she is afraid he will resent her in years to come. It takes a tragedy to wake her up to the love he has for her and what steps he will take to prove his love for her.
Linda
Righteous Prey by John Sandford
Virgil Flowers, agent with Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, is in the process of writing a book when he is called upon to investigate the latest murder carried out by The Five, a group of vigilante killers who take out those they consider a blight upon the human race. Lucas Davenport, now a U.S. Marshal, is with Virgil as they meet with FBI officials. The victim was found stabbed to death in her garage. The first victim was found in San Francisco with the number “1” marked on the forehead. News media was informed of each death carried out by this group. Whoever they are, they need to be stopped.
Linda
I Know Where You Live by Gregg Olsen
When Violet was sexually molested by her grandfather, her life was changed. She told her mother and was accused of lying. Violet protected her sister by never letting her be alone with their grandfather. She did not know the truth at the time but her mother had been used sexually by her father. The grandmother knew it but said this fact was to be kept in the family and she covered it up. When Papa died unexpectedly in the hospital, it looked like he was smothered to death and the nurse was blamed. But was she to blame? Was the killer Violet, her mother, or her grandmother?
Linda
Don’t Open the Door by Allison Brennan
Regan Merritt gets a phone call from her friend Tommy Granger. He has been investigating the murder of her son and it’s all coming together. He will call her later but he is killed before the call is made. Regan flies to Virginia and takes over the investigation he started. She is determined to find who was behind the shooting death of her son as well as who killed Tommy. She contacts her ex-husband Grant Warwick. He had talked to Tommy a few days before he was killed but now Grant is scared. He knows too much and is afraid he will be killed next.
Karen
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
A wonderfully-funny novel about Elizabeth Zott, a chemist who works in a lab with misogynistic men: she injects biting replies on almost every page. The last forty pages turn serious and offer answers to questions you probably want to have answered. One man truly loved her, probably for her brain, but he dies and leaves her with their brilliant daughter. A dog named Six-Thirty also protects and befriends her. She leaves the lab for a cooking show - another comical site.
Beth
The Survivors by Jane Harper
It’s not for nothing that Jane Harper is one of my favorite authors. I can pick up anything she’s written and know I’m going to love it. This has been proven true once again by her book THE SURVIVORS. As with all of Harper’s books, this one is both character - and plot - driven. And there’s so much going on in the small-town community of Evelyn Bay in Tasmania. The main character is Kieran, who has come back to Evelyn Bay with his girlfriend and their baby to help his parents pack to move. The very evening they arrive a murder occurs, and he and his old friends, who all still live there, become involved as either suspects or friends of suspects. Either way, all seem to be hiding secrets.
Elizabeth
It's One of Us by J. T. Ellison
Lots of drama, secrets, surprises, and intense situations that keep you on the edge of your seat.
Another excellent read for fans of J. T. Ellison.
sherry
Mean Streak by Sandra Brown
Sandra Brown is an author I have always enjoyed reading. This was a good book.
Francisca
The Chicken Sisters by K. J. Dell’Antonia
3.5 stars. Two competing chicken restaurants founded a century ago by sisters are the subject of a reality-TV “food war.” The long-running family feud continues with a current “feud” of sorts between sisters Amanda and Mae. There are some family secrets that come out, a new hunky chef, a manipulative TV producer who wants more conflict, and more than one effort to sabotage the competition which all serve to keep the plot moving forward with surprises, twists and insights into the family dynamic. There can only be ONE winner of “Food Wars” and in this case, it’s the reader.
Sheryl
Keeping Watch by Laurie R. King
Very good character development with the main character's Vietnam war background and how it impacts his life.
Sherri
Breakfast of Champions by Kurt Vonnegut
Weird and wacky but still very socially relevant today.
Rose
Nothing More to Tell by Karen M. McManus
Brynn's family moved away after her favorite teacher, Mr. Larkin, was killed. Now they are moving back and she is returning to St. Ambrose. While interviewing for an internship, she floats the story that her teacher was killed, and the murder hasn't been solved. She was friends with one of the three kids that found the body, and now that she is back in school, she begins digging into the past. However, some people don't want her to get too close to her former friend, Tripp Talbot. Yet, Brynn knows they are lying about something. I enjoyed this YA novel and was a bit surprised about the ending.
Stefanie
A Light in the Flame by Jennifer Armentrout
This book was the second in the Flesh and Fire series, which is a fantasy romance book series. Just like the first one, the writing wasn't bad, and the story itself was fun. The universe building is a lot, but not nearly as much as other authors in the genre like Maas. I didn't find this particular book to be particularly interesting and the story did drag in a lot of places, but there was enough character development and enough setup within the story for me to want to read the next installment when it is published later this year.
Stefanie
Misery by Stephen King
I love old Stephen King novels before he went down the religious rabbit hole like he did with DESPERATION or THE STAND. His choice of language and his alliterative prose really makes you feel the desperation and spirit-crushing experience of the protagonist Paul Sheldon. You also are front row for the slow peeling back of who the real Annie Wilkes for the times that Paul describes what he's learning about her through interactions or through his snooping. King also does a great job of applying often felt experiences of real kidnapped people regarding Stockholm Syndrome and how easy it is for them to believe their captor. I was left at the edge of my seat egging Paul on every time he had a chance to defend himself.
Stefanie
Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing by Matthew Perry
I was really excited about this book as I loved the show Friends and appreciate the experiences of those who suffer from addiction. However, Perry's book was one of the hardest books I ever got through. The narrative is a stream of consciousness that was difficult to follow, and although the editors tried to keep him within a topic thread per chapter, I often found myself lost to the point of his dialog. His view of women and animals in general is very off-putting, to put it nicely, and begets a man who is very emotionally immature despite a lifetime of self-professed therapy.
Rose
You Must Remember This by Kat Rosenfield
Miriam Caravasios is 85 with dementia. She remembers her lover, Theo, and how they used to cross the frozen beach to meet. On Christmas Eve, she steps onto the ice and goes under. So begins the story of this tale of a family who was waiting for the matriarch to die. Theodora, the youngest child, has put her life on hold to care for her mother in the old family home, The Whispers. Her adult daughter, Delphine, has been helping her, and visited her grandmother at the care facility. But now, they bring her home to The Whispers with Adam, a personal caregiver, who has been secretly with Delphine. Richard, the eldest, doesn't want to be there, and Diana, another sister is anxious for inheritance. Suspect was obvious, but red herrings trick you.
Leslie
Looking for Jane by Heather Marshall
Excellent story of the "Jane" network helping women obtain safe abortions before legalization. Heartfelt and sympathetic portrayal of characters dealing with life-changing decisions.
Beverly
Sam by Allegra Goodman
This is a coming-of-age book for a girl named Sam. While I read the book, I'm still not sure I loved the book.
Kim
The Missing (Bane Island series, #3) by Lisa Childs
This murder mystery was a twisted, confusing tail of family pain, mystery, missing persons and murder. It was a challenging story with many unanswered questions and lingering details. The reader does enjoy the connection between Edie and Dr. Cooke but it does leave the reader wanting more. It is disturbing to learn that descendants pay for the crimes of their elders.
Anita
The Girl Who Escaped From Auschwitz by Ellie Midwood
This was a very well-written book based on fact. It is about a young girl and boy who plan their escape from Auschwitz. I found it difficult to get through because of the horrors of the Holocaust and the Nazis. However, I also felt it important to read. I learned something I had not known before. I think it is imperative for all people to read and discover some facts that might not be in history books.
Sean
Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafon
This book had my mind running in so many different directions. The book is for book lovers. Author Carlos Ruiz Zafon crafts a book about love, loss, family, friends, and great evil. I tried to predict the ending many times and was wrong many times. I loved the supporting cast and the world created in multiple eras in Barcelona. At times I was mesmerized. Overall, a marvelous novel.
shelly
Sparring Partners by John Grisham
This book consists of three short stories. Homecoming: Jake Brigance is asked by Mack Stanford, a friend and fromer lawyer help him return to Clanton after vanishing for three years.
Jake contacts Harry Rex, Mack's former lawyer to see if it is even possible to do this. The story is easy and fast to read. Can Mack return without landing in jail? Can the FBI be outsmarted?
Strawberry Moon: Have you ever heard the expression Strawberry Moon? Know what it means? Cody Wallace has been sentenced to death row and now after spending fourteen years in jail for a botched robbery - he is only hours away from being executed. The lawyer is trying to fight that a fifteen-year-old who was a minor should not sentenced to capital murder.
Rose
An Immense World: How Animal Senses Reveal the Hidden Realms Around Us by Ed Yong
This is a wonderful book which discusses the senses in the animal world, and how the animals use these senses to discover what is in the world around them. It is fascinating, how they use touch, smell, vision, etc. to determine where prey is, where predators are, and other things vital to their survival. If you like nature, animals, the outdoors, etc., this is a must-read! Very interesting.
Alison
The Last Rose of Shanghai by Weina Dai Randel
I've read a lot of WWII books but none set in Shanghai and not many that follow the experience of a Jewish German refuge. This book shows some of the treatment he received at the hands of the Chinese, some by other Jewish refugees also trying to make their way and then what happens after Shanghai is occupied by the brutal Japanese regime. This book seemed very authentic and the parts describing the wartime conditions was not sugarcoated at all. The forbidden love story was touching and genuine in most parts - there were a couple fantastical moments thrown in which I'm willing to overlook because the story and the characters drew me in so completely. Chapters alternate between characters and time lines but not so much to be confusing.
Alison
Horse by Geraldine Brooks
Through this book I gained such great insight into the breeding, training and racing of thoroughbreds and how racism played into this popular pastime in 1800s America. The civil-war-era storyline is almost entirely historical with characters such as Cassius Clay and his daughter Mary Barr Clay, artists Thomas J. Scott and Edward Troye and several prominent (and lesser known) members of the horse racing community. The book ends with a paragraph devoted to each real-life character and their notable accomplishments. The present-day story is almost as fascinating as the forgotten skeleton of the famous Lexington was discovered and given proper limelight. Completely educated and enthralled and satisfied with this story!
Alison
The Push by Ashley Audrain
This book exposes the reader to all the dark, disturbing, uncomfortable thoughts a mother could have towards her own child. These kinds of thoughts are unspeakable...until this book came long. This story will make you wonder whether being a bad mom is genetic - or maybe it's a choice, a condition or a symptom? And, the book continues to raise questions that don't really have cozy, comfortable answers: can a bad mother change and become a good mother? Can a child be born evil? Should a mom be gaslit for doubting the goodness of their own flesh and blood? Is it right to question a mother's sanity before questioning a child's innocence? A very dark, lonely, disturbing, compelling read.
Susan
When Justice Sleeps by Stacey Abrams
Entertaining.
Tessa
Mistress of the Ritz by Melanie Benjamin
3.5 stars. As she has done for many other women in history, Benjamin turns her attention to a previously little-known woman who made a significant impact. This novel focuses on Blanche Auzello, a former American actress who was married to Claude Auzello, the manager of the Hotel Ritz in Paris, and their experiences during the Nazi occupation of Paris. I was completely caught up in the story from beginning to end. It’s worth reading the author’s note at the end to learn the few facts the author had on which to frame this engaging work of fiction.
Rose
Mother Daughter Traitor Spy by Susan Elia MacNeal
Story of a mother and daughter who worked together to spy on the Nazi movement in the U.S. in the early 1940s. Veronica Grace wants to be a reporter, but when she has a relationship with a married man, her future in journalism in NY is doomed. She and her mother, Vivian, a widower, move to CA. While there, they are exposed to extreme hatred towards Jews and it disgusts them. They are recruited to become spies to take down the Nazis. This is based on a real-life mother/daughter team who helped to destroy Nazi plots in Los Angeles during the war. (Sylvia Comfort and her mother, Vi) This is a well-written historical novel, and really exposes how easy it is to be lured into hatred via propaganda. We need to guard against this every day.
Sandy
Ravens by George Dawes Green
This is a great story about a family who wins the lottery and then gets terrorized by two guys who demand half of their winnings.
Sandy
Rush Home Road by Lori Lansens
I didn't care for the beginning, but after a few chapters I liked it a lot.
Debbie
The Perfect Marriage by Jeneva Rose
What a surprise ending in THE PERFECT MARRIAGE! The ending really hit me between the eyes. Enter Sarah Morgan, the top criminal lawyer and partner in a prestigious law firm. Her husband, Adam, writes so-so books and has the perfect physique and personality. Of course, Adam has a roving eye and currently keeps Kelly Summers as his permanent mistress at the lake house a narrow distance from DC. Virginia police find a brutally murdered Kelly in the lake house and turn to Adam as her murderer. Of course, Sarah will defend her husband. Jeneva Rose does a wonderful job by presenting alternating chapters narrated by Adam and Sarah.
Debbie
Towards Zero by Agatha Christie
Another mystery with a surprise murderer. No, Hercule Poirot does not enter this case, but Superintendent Battle channels Poirot’s psychological reasons to find the correct murderer. An old, invalid woman invites friends and relatives to her house for a month in September. An old barrister, Mr. Treves, attends the event, but dies soon from his bad heart. He had to walk up the stairs as the chair lift was not working. No one thinks anything foul has happened. Not long after this, Lady Tressilian’s life ends in a brutal murder. The first clues point to her heir, Nevile Strange. But what is his motive, as he does not need her money or home? Battle and the local police search for clues and the killer.
Patti
Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson
I enjoyed reading this book and learning of Eleanor’s family and friendships. I was fully invested in this family’s story from the beginning and enjoyed reading it and unraveling it. There were many twists and turns that I did not expect!
