This contest period's winners were Janet C., Katie F. and Sybil B., who each received a copy of EARTH’S THE RIGHT PLACE FOR LOVE by Elizabeth Berg and HANG THE MOON by Jeannette Walls.
Richard N B
The Gunslinger by Stephen King
This is the first in the novels that comprise King’s epic odyssey “Dark Tower” series. In it, he introduces the reader to Roland Deschain, a “gunslinger. ” Haunted and determined, Roland wanders a bleak landscape in search of the man in black, determined to eradicate evil. There is something about Roland that makes me want to follow him, that makes me believe that he is “a good guy” and the kind of hero I want to cheer for.
Jill
The Diamond Eye by Kate Quinn
This is the enthralling story of a female World War II sniper of Ukranian descent who made over 300 kills during the war. At first, a quiet history major in Odessa, Lyudmila (Mila) Pavlichenko becomes a talented, confident sniper who also taught other snipers after she was injured. This is a fascinating insight into how one becomes a sniper, what the job entails, and of her interactions with another sniper, talks about her lovers, and also tells of how her tumultuous marriage causes her to make choices she might not otherwise have made. A captivating, addictive read. Highly recommended.
Jill
The Favor by Nicci French
THE FAVOR is of how Jude's first love asks her to do him a seemingly small favor and how this leads to an increasingly chaotic and scary consequences. Jude is suspected of his later murder and investigates what really happened so as to clear her name. A twisty, winding ride of a story in which Jude also grapples with who she is and her place in the world. A great suspenseful read.
Susan
Lucy by the Sea by Elizabeth Strout
This is another sequel to the Lucy Barton series following, OH WILLIAM! This book has all the feels and is set during the onset of the pandemic where William wants to keep Lucy safe by bringing her to Maine. You can be sure Olive Kitteridge is bound to make an appearance in this delightful novel, too!
Dottie
The Circus Train by Amita Parikh
This historical fiction novel was thoroughly researched, including how individuals with disabilities were treated during that time, areas where the circus performances were located, people’s attitudes and community behaviors. Somewhat predictable yet with many twists and turns. An engaging, interesting, well-written novel.
Ann Marie
On the Savage Side by Tiffany McDaniel
I loved this book that is based on the Chillicothe Six, heroin addicts and prostitutes found dead in the river and the serial killer was never found. This book is fiction but based on that and as an addict myself (in recovery), I have to say Tiffany McDaniel Daniel did an outstanding job of what a heroin addicts life looks like. There is also a great twist at the end! I never read BETTY, another one of her books, but I am so looking forward to it!
Jane
Husbands and Other Sharp Objects by Mariyn Simon Rothstein
OMG. Quite a hilarious book that I finished in two days. I couldn't put it down but had to go on with my life! Crazy family shenanigans. I laughed at practically everything Marcy, the mother in this family, said. Amanda, was getting married to her almost ex-husband Harvey's lawyer, Jake.
Harvey, was in the bra business and a big "macher", Yiddish for a person who is influential or important in his field. Amanda had one sister, Elisabeth, a doctor and Ben, who was in law school. I loved every character and Jake's parents Mug and Bernie were hilarious and she called Mrs. Burger "Mrs. Burglar." You have to read the book to understand this. Now I need to read LIFT AND SEPARATE, her first book.
Beth
Blackwater Falls by Ausma Zehanet Khan
This book appealed to me as a mystery novel, but it is so much more. The book explores immigration and religion and labor issues, while the main character solves a difficult case. Thought-provoking and well-written. I loved this book!
Susan
Cold People by Tom Rob Smith
Sci-fi but thought-provoking.
Linda
Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver
It’s a book that is sad at times, and also made me think about the many hardships some young people have to endure in their life.
Cynthia
Hello Stranger by Katherine Center
Loved this book full of humor, everyday life situations. I learned a lot, as well, along the way!
MH
By Royal Appointment by A. O’Connor
This book is about Victoria’s son Bertie, who was Prince of Wales. It covers the period of his military service and his introduction into the ways of the world. Known as a playboy in later life, this book is a take on his first affair - with a noted actress, Nellie Cliffden. Having read a series of light mysteries involving Bertie as the detective years ago, I was interested in a slightly different aspect of his life.
Connie
So Long, Chester Wheeler by Catherine Ryan Hyde
From one of my favorite authors, a book about someone down on their luck agrees to take a very onery, dying man to fulfill his last wish. Both of the men learn from each other about life. Loved it.
Joan
Commonwealth by Ann Patchett
I love anything Ann Patchett writes, and this book lives up to expectations. A story about two families who somehow become joined, the story follows the trials and tribulations of the six children who find themselves connected by their parents’ marriage. No one is perfect here, but they all do their best.
Julie
Forever, Interrupted by Taylor Jenkins Reid
This is TJR’s first published book and the one I read last. I didn’t discover her until THE SEVEN HUSBANDS OF EVELYN HUGO. This is a sad book about grief, but I didn’t feel sad reading it. I found myself shaking my head yes a lot as I, too, lost my first husband at 22. This is about love,grief, friendship and how when one person leaves your life another one enters and gives you something else you need. This is rivaling EVELYN HUGO as my favorite of TJR’s.
Debbie
The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides
So many red herrings! Agatha Christie would love Alex Michaelides’ THE SILENT PATIENT. The last chapters reveal the killer and what a surprise! Alicia and Gabriel shine as the ideal couple with the perfect marriage and fabulous careers. Then tragedy strikes and handsome Gabriel sits wired to a chair with his body covered with bullets and Alicia stands in front of Gabriel holding a gun. Police arrest the mute Alicia for her husband’s murder and commit her to a mental hospital. No one can coerce Alicia to speak. Enter Theo Faber, a criminal psychotherapist, determined to win Alicia’s trust and ease her into telling her story. THE SILENT PATIENT follows Theo and Alicia and the events leading to Gabriel’s murder.
Debbie
The Rising Tide by Ann Cleeves
Well, not all police detectives fall into the category of handsome or beautiful. Vera Stanhope does not fit the perfect mold. Vera loves to eat, and her body reveals this love affair with food. But, Vera, like Hercule Poirot utilizes her “little gray cells.” Individuals who met during a school event recreate the meeting every five years on an island. One of the girls meets disaster when she attempts to leave as the tide rises. Isobel’s car swerves and she drowns. This is the 50th year reunion as these senior citizens meet to relive the past. Annie finds a hanging Rich the morning after a drunken night. First, all feel that Rich has committed suicide, but Annie feels differently and the police arrive to investigate.
Jeanne
The Wedding of the Season by Lauren Edmondson
THE WEDDING OF THE SEASON by Lauren Edmondson is a delightfully charming novel where the glamorous Gilded Age in Newport meets modern day Newport as a dysfunctional, quirky family plans their daughter Maggie’s wedding while dealing with a mother who acts more like a bridezilla. The author did a good job in her research of the beautiful Gilded Age Newport mansions and society during that era. I liked the way she blended old Newport with current Newport society. It was full of surprises, secrets, and romance.
Francisca
Hidden Valley Road by Robert Kolker
3.5 stars. Subtitle: Inside the Mind of an American Family. The Galvin family certainly seemed the quintessential successful post-WWII, Eisenhower-era family, but six of their twelve children were diagnosed with schizophrenia. They became the subjects of numerous research projects. I don’t think I would have read this book were it not for my F2F book group. I found interesting and informative, but it was not always compelling.
LisaMarie
The Last Flight by Julie Clark
Very good thriller. To change places with another and step in there shoes, literally.
Eileen
The Mitford Affair by Marie Benedict
While Benedict's writing was wonderful as usual, I couldn't help but be disgusted at the way she portrayed Hitler as a gentleman and good guy. Nothing of his viscous behavior was even hinted at, and although one sister lived in Germany and openly admitted to anti-Semitism, no one in the Mitford family seemed to think that sentiment was worth recrimination. The ending was also completely unsatisfying. The story just stopped. I couldn't believe there were not more pages.
jane
Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano
Best book I have read in ages. I cannot recommend it enough. The characters are wonderful.
Sybil
Between You and Me by Susan Wiggs
Not sure the language was necessary to the story.
Debi
It's One of Us by J. T. Ellison
This is probably the most emotionally-generated thriller I have ever read. Taking the reader through the heartbreaking journey of infertility that leads to sperm donation. Then the twist of DNA and a possible link to a murder gene and the thriller is fully engaged. Author Ellison digs from her own experience with infertility to create a true-to-life experience for one of the main characters, Olivia, who desperately wants a child with her husband, Park. Eventually we find the sperm bank has not been ethical and secrets start to spill, marriages are threatened, and people are dying. This is my first book by Ellison and won't be the last.
Pam
The Winners by Fredrik Backman
Another great story with flawed characters, emotional insight, and lots of hope from my favorite author. A good conclusion to the BEARTOWN series of books.
Pamela
All That Is Mine I Carry With Me by William Landay
I absolutely loved this book. It was so well written and I was blown away with the ending. From the moment I started reading I did not want to put the novel down. It was well worth the wait for this book to be written.
Brenda
Thirst for Justice by David R. Boyd
This was a new author for me. This story was very interesting from start to finish. Is a terrorist really a bad person or can they be doing something good? That is a question that the reader needs to consider as you read this book. I enjoyed this author.
Linda
Go as a River by Shelley Read
A bleak story about forbidden love and tragic loss but also one of survival and eventually hope. I loved Read's homage to nature/wildlife in the Gunnison, Colorado region. Listening to Carol's podcast with the author enhanced my interpretation of the book.
Sharon
The Violin Conspiracy by Brendan Slocumb
Although this book was an interesting mystery, the number of incidents in which the main character encountered racist insults was alarming. It reflects prejudice in our world today.
Joan
The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek by Kim Michele Richardson
I am glad our book club selected it.
Terry
Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt
This was such a fun and touching book. I consider it a modern-day fairy tale.
Dianne
Magpie Murders by Anthony Horowitz
Complex story with a murders within a murder. Red herrings.
Lorraine
Community Board by Tara Conklin
Brilliant, using humor to tell truths about personal and societal crises/challenges.
Sandra
I Will Find You by Harlan Coben
Can never go wrong with his books!
Lonnie
13 Little Blue Envelopes by Maureen Johnson
Interesting YA book. What parents would allow their 17-year-old daughter to traipse around Europe on her own?! That said, I loved it.
Susann
The Measure by Nikki Erlick
Engrossing read about a challenge that seems impossible. Great writing and uplifting in a different way.
Donna
The Queen's Necklace by Antal Szerb
Interesting account of Marie Antionette.
Dona
Black Wolf by Kathleen Kent
While I love a good spy thriller, this one takes place in the 90s which is an interesting change from the usual Cold War spy thriller. Melvena's ability to never forget a face is a different super power. Is there such a thing? Anyway, this book is a true page-turner from beginning to end. I should really give it 4.5 stars!
Chris
Our Woman in Moscow by Beatriz Williams
Great read.
Teresa
The Good Sister by Sally Hepworth
A twisty story of the twin daughters of a terrible, narcissistic mother, one twin on the spectrum and the other her loving support, her “person.”
Susan
The Last House on the Street by Diane Chamberlain
Even though this book is fictional it delves into civil rights movement in the 60s in North Carolina. Kayla moves into a house she and her husband designed after he falls and dies in a accident while building it. Flash back between 1965 and 2010 tells the story of events that took place on the property.
Rose
Reef Road by Deborah Goodrich Royce
Two boys discover a hand that washed up on the sand in Palm Beach. A woman is watching their discovery. So begins REEF ROAD. Then we are introduced to Linda Alonso, her husband Miguel, and her children, Diego (Gogo) and Espie. There is also a writer who is obsessed with the death of her mother's childhood friend, Noelle Huber, a murder which was never solved.
Sprinkled with details about true crime, and in fact, this is based on a true crime, the book was a bit disjointed. I never connected with the characters. I figured out what was happening very early, but not all the details. The fact that it was during the pandemic was interesting, and the actual crime and its aftermath were also interesting.
Simonne
The Bullet That Missed by Richard Osman
The gang, Elizabeth, Joyce, Ron and Ibrahim, is off solving yet another murder from the dead files.
Lots of twists in this one!
Roxanne
The Book Eaters by Sunyi Dean
Very unique with a creative alternative universe still applicable to our experiences. At times, gruesome but overall captivating.
Jill
Age of Vice by Deepti Kapoor
I loved every minute of the thriller, mystery, crime fiction, saga story. It is an addictive read but worth savoring. It takes you deep into the underworld of New Delhi. I’ve heard this is a trilogy and I’m already anxiously awaiting for the second book. I’ve also heard FX has purchased this and there will be a series.
Tina
The Strange Inheritance of Leah Fern by Rita Zoey Chin
This novel completely drew me into the world of carnivals, artists, devoted men and a young woman who went on a journey internally as well as on a road trip. There are elements of magical realism, and the intricately detailed description of the different lands she visits were so transportive. I didn’t want this book to end.
Tina
The Lost Ticket by Freya Sampson
I really enjoyed how the author fleshed out the eclectic cast of characters who are brought together when a young woman takes up the cause of an elderly man she meets on a London bus. Freya teases out the connecting threads between the characters as they (sometimes unwillingly) try to help Frank, who is longing for his missed connection from 60 years ago. I felt like I was riding the London bus with all of them.
Tina
The Cry of the Kalahari by Mark and Delia Owens
After being mesmerized by reading WHERE THE CRAWDADS SING, I reread my very old copy of THE CRY OF THE KALAHARI and it truly stands up 30 years after reading it for the first time. The masterful descriptive writing engages all your senses. Delia’s nonfiction work has all the passion and depth and colorful description as her fiction does. This is the story of her and her husband’s experience of spending many years in a remote section of wild Africa. They were the only two humans in an area of land the size of Ireland. Many of the animals they studied had never seen humans before. Jane Goodall's blurb in the book says, “For anyone interested in animals or in real life adventure, this book is a must.“
Sandra
Homestead by Melinda Moustakis
Loved everything about this book! The time frame - 1956, Alaska: beautiful state, homesteading, living off the grid. A beautifully-written book about an unlikely couple who meet and marry immediately without really knowing each other. They both love the land (150 acres) but this in the end is the problem. A debut book by this author so hope more is to come.
Laurie
Fresh Water for Flowers by Valerie Perrin
Translated from French. A beautifully-written epic tale unlike anything I’ve read previously, and I read a lot! Several stories are magnificently interwoven. It is a long book so be repaired for a journey.
Katie
Maame by Jessica George
This debut novel was in turns heartwarming and heartbreaking. The main character Maddie (referred to as Maame by her mother) is torn between her desire to live her life and her obligations to her family. She explores relationships with her parents, brother, friends, employer and co-workers, boyfriends and flat mates. I found myself cheering her on as she navigates her way through life and faces the perils of modern dating. I also learned some things about Ghana and its culture. I really enjoyed this debut novel and am looking forward to see what this author does next.
Gloria
1000 Years of Joy and Sorrows by Ai Weiwei
This memoir of a contemporary Chinese artist, who is world renown, not only follows his life from birth to the present but also gives a history of China. For that reason, this book is satisfactory on many levels. Ai Weiwei's father, a well-known Chinese poet and activist, was punished while Ai Weiwei was a child. They were both sent to the outer reaches of China to be re-indoctrinated and suffer the hardship of extreme weather and hunger. The book follows Ai Weiwei through the various stages of his life until his present day endeavors.
Beth
Less is Lost by Andrew Sean Greer
This is a follow-up to the book LESS. Arthur Less is a 50-something gay man who undertakes a cross country journey necessitated by a sudden and unexpected need to pay back rent on "the Shack", his home with his lover Freddie. I loved LESS and found it laugh-out-loud funny. I didn't like this sequel quite as much, but it was still funny and tender and well worth my time.
Laura
Friends, Lovers and the Big Terrible Thing by Matthew Perry
Matthew Perry is so honest in this memoir. It's heartbreaking, funny, interesting and honestly I can't help but root for him and hope that he continues to fight and win the battle with drugs and alcohol.
shelly
What I Left Behind by Jennifer Archer
At sixteen years of age, Allyson Cole along with Sonny McGraw embark on a trip to Woodstock without there parents knowledge or concent. Although they were wild times the consequences have lived on forever. Aly got pregnant at sixteen and her parents presured her to give the baby up for adoption. Aly did not have the courage to fight and say she wanted to keep the baby but then when waking up in Woodstock to find that Sonny had disappeared from the entire group without saying a word she felt she had no choice. She was still in school and could not afford to even take care of this baby. Besides she never heard from Sonny again and constantly wondered where and why did he leave.
Michelle
Horse by Geraldine Brooks
Excellent story that was well researched and which brought up tremendous discussion opportunities about race, history and more. Our book group loved it!
Janice
Who is Maud Dixon? by Alexandra Andrews
I won this book from Bookreporter.com, and while I did not particularly like either of the lead characters, the story kept me turning the pages, wanting to see what happened. Florence Darrow is a young woman who wants to be an author and is thrilled to land a position as an assistant to the mysterious but highly successful author Maud Dixon. There are all kinds of twists and turns in this story, and with a possible murder charge eventually handing over Florence's head. I will be looking for more from this author.
Janice
The Break-Up Book Club by Wendy Wax
This was such a fun read about friendships, families, and romantic relationships. The focus is on four women, with a wide range of ages, careers, and family situations. They are brought together in a book club, and the other more peripheral members of the book club are interesting characters as well. The way the book club members support and uplift each other, even as other relationships shift and sometimes disappoint, keeping me completely absorbed. I want to be sure to thank Bookreporter.com for the copy of this book I received!
Janice
The Personal Librarian by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray
This book joins Marie Benedict's growing list of fictionalized biographies, stories based on the lives of real women. In this one she tells the story of Bell de Costa Green, a woman who became the personal librarian for J. P. Morgan, building for him a collection of rare books, and all kinds of other incredible texts. Unbeknownst to Mr. Morgan, and to the world, Ms. de Costa Green was a very light-skinned Black woman, and was able to pass for White, which she did for many long years. Ms. Benedict was joined in writing this book by Victoria Christopher Murray, and together they crafted a tribute to Ms. de Costa Green, while also imagining what her challenges, and her heartaches, might have been. I won this from Bookreporter.com and loved it!
Deby
The Guncle by Steven Rowley
Fun, easy read.
Cindee
Northern Spy by Flynn Berry
Very interesting spy novel set in Ireland. Quite a bit of historical info. Loved the pace and style.
Tessa
Blackbird House by Alice Hoffman
This is a collection of vignettes, spanning two-plus centuries, all set in the same house/farm on the tip of Cape Cod, Massachusetts beginning when the area was still a British colony and ending in the early 21st century. I found these stories enchanting and mesmerizing, though I’m hard-pressed to say what exactly it was about them that so charmed me. Maybe that is the magic of Hoffman’s storytelling.
Kimberley
The Phone Booth at the Edge of the World by Laura Imai Messina
In Japan, a gentleman placed a phone booth on his front property for people to “talk” to those they have lost. Many travel miles to make these heart filled “calls”. The author has created a story around the phone booth. Her characters all have stories about whom they use the phone booth to talk. The widower, the daughter, the son, and the father all share great loss. The reader feels the healing and peace as the characters talk out their feelings in the phone booth. It is beautiful.
Leslie
One Italian Summer by Rebecca Serle
Did NOT want to put this book down! Totally captivating, perfect vacation read.
Beth
Unseen by Karin Slaughter
UNSEEN is a book in Karin Slaughter's Will Trent series. But two of the characters in this book, Sara and Lena, were originally in the Grant County series. Sara now practices medicine at a hospital in Atlanta and is Will Trent’s girlfriend. Lena is now a police detective in Macon, Georgia, which is where the story in UNSEEN takes place. Will is an agent with the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) in Atlanta. For now, he is working undercover in Macon, trying to infiltrate a drug ring. Sara doesn't know where he is. Coincidentally, though, she comes to Macon when her stepson, Jared, who lives there, was shot numerous times during a home invasion. Also coincidentally, he is married to Lena, who Sara believes caused her husband's death.
Thomas
Righteous Prey by John Sandford
Excellent book.
Thomas
Triple Cross by James Patterson
Excellent read.
Rose
Last Summer on State Street by Toya Wolfe
In 1999, Felicia "Fe Fe" Stevens and her friends are pre-teens living in the projects in Chicago. Their building is going to be torn down. Her friends, Precious Brown and Stacia Buchanan, jump rope together. When a new friend, Tonya, is invited to their group, Stacia isn't happy. The book traces their lives over the summer. Fe Fe's mother wants her to avoid some of these girls due to their family environment. As Fe Fe remembers the summer, she remembers her mother and her gang member brother, her devout friend Precious, the hardness of Stacia, and the loneliness of Tonya. When Tonya disappears from the group, Fe Fe tries to reach out to her, but Tonya's mother doesn't help. It isn't until years later that Fe Fe discovers the truth.
Rose
Finding Me by Viola Davis
I really like Viola Davis's work as an actor, so I was excited to read her story. It is amazing how she fought to break out of the poverty and abuse she experienced as a child. She is a gifted actor who worked tirelessly to perfect her craft and bring forth the perfect emotions for each role.
Davis endured many hardships. The poverty was hard to read, her struggles with bed-wetting, fibroids, alopecia, avoiding the drug culture, abuse, and discrimination against her due to her dark skin tone. Reading this book has given me a greater appreciation for her and her journey to find herself.
Francisca
The Heart Goes Last by Margaret Atwood
In a country facing economic and social collapse, Stan and Charmaine struggle to hold onto their love and their marriage. Damn but Atwood is a fine writer! I love how she shows us this young couple, their dreams and ambitions revealed through their actions. What IS love? Is it passion and excitement? Is it devotion and sacrifice without thought to self? Can we choose whom and how to love, or is it an emotion so powerful that we are helpless in its grasp, destined to follow the path laid out before us?
Julie
Wrong Place Wrong Time by Gillian McAllister
Intriguing premise with time travel that bends your mind a little.
Kay
One Woman's War by Christina Wells
Ian Fleming looms large in this WWII story about a young woman who becomes the basis of his "Miss Moneypenny" character in the 007 spy series.
Kay
All the Broken Places by John Boyne
An in depth look at the life of a German woman who was a daughter of one of Hitler's concentration camp managers. At 16 she was brought to Paris by her mother and spent a life trying to find her way to escape and live with what had been done by her father and the Nazis. She was never really comfortable in her skin with her demons. But, she relates to a young boy who moves into the apartment on the first floor of the building. She sees the father's cruelty to his wife and son and confronts him in the only way she knows how to stop him.
Kay
The Seamstress of Sardinia by Bianca Pitzorno
It was easy to imagine this young girl accompanying her grandmother to her client's homes for sewing their clothes and mending them. After her grandmother dies, she is able to continue on the trade and earn a living. She develops relationships with lady customers which supports her emotionally to survive some bad moments along the way. I really loved the hand-cranked sewing machine she took with her and wondered how it would be used. I just saw one this week at our local quilt shop.
Kay
Pierre and Jean by Guy de Maupassant
What fun to follow the lives in the 1800s northern France of the two brothers after Jean inherits from a family friend. Why did he inherit and not both brothers? Pierre obsesses about it and decides his mother had an affair with the family friend and that the younger brother was his son. Ooo la la!
Kay
Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver
I always look forward to Kingsolver's books. After reading about DEMON COPPERHEAD, our book club selected it for the group to read. I will read DAVID COPPERFIELD to learn how she based her story on this classic book. Intense reading, but I found the ending to be satisfying.
Kay
Charlotte's Web by E. B. White
I always wondered about this book and had seen the cover often but had not read it. What a delight! I've also been reading up on the author. This story is universal and has many of today's topics to discuss for current issues.
Patricia
Night Flight to Paris by Cara Black
I was up until 1:00 am because I just couldn't put the book down. It's fast-moving and exciting. Kate Rees is after the Nazis because she lost her husband and daughter in a Nazi raid. She has nothing to lose so she takes on dangerous assignments in Berlin and Paris to help the Allies win WW II. She finds she's alone in her efforts because she doesn't know whom she can trust - the SIS, the Communists, or the Resistance. This book is a sequel to THREE HOURS IN PARIS, another excellent book.
Rita
The Many Daughters of Afong Moy by Jamie Ford
Multi-generational story about the women in the Moy family and their decisions and relationships. I did not enjoy this book. I found it disjointed from the first chapter to the end. If you were looking for a historical fiction book about the Chinese culture between generations I read have other books that would fit the bill better than this book did.
Kim
Murder on the Poet’s Walk by Ellery Adams
This mystery follows Jane, the owner and manager of Storyton Hall. A huge gathering of poets at the grand inn is interrupted by murder and mishaps. It’s a great story of family, greed, foods and literature. It is a page-turner with an unexpected ending.
Rose
Bookworm by Robin Yeatman
The irony of this book is that Victoria, the bookworm, contemplates not finishing the book that she is reading, and I felt like that many times when reading this book. Victoria is in an unhappy marriage when she sees Him at the cafe she frequents. Instantly, she believes she is in love. In love with a man she doesn't know at all. She hopes to meet him again. At night, she "floats" to his house and gets in bed with Him. Victoria imagines ways to kill her husband, Eric, so she can be with Him (Luke). Eric is on the partner path, and is busy at work, but Victoria isn't interested in what he likes, just imagines a way out. This book is snarky, dark, and ridiculous at times. Victoria is never satisfied.
Barbara
Olive Kitteridge by Elizabeth Strout
Very interesting look at relationships. How you feel about different men and husbands, sons and daughter-in-laws, friends and neighbors. It’s opinions on everything!
Debbie
Death Comes As the End by Agatha Christie
DEATH COMES AS THE END by Agatha Christie does not follow her normal mystery writing. This story happens in ancient Egypt in 2000 BC. The story centers on three generations of a power-hungry family. The older father brings home a concubine and sets her on a pedestal much to chagrin of his adult children. The father must travel to other areas in Egypt and while he is gone, his beloved concubine falls to her death, or has she been pushed. The killer strikes six times before discovery. This story falls into a dark, morbid scenery. The information concerning ancient Egypt and family relationships stimulates the mind, but the tempo clouds this dysfunctional family. No fun or amusing Hercule Poirot or Miss Marple, and each is greatly missed.
Tessa
Lucky In Love by Kasie West
This is a pretty typical YA romance. The interesting twist, though, is Maddie’s status as a BIG lottery winner, and that does complicate things for her. I really liked Maddie. She’s young and inexperienced but generally has a pretty good head on her shoulders. She values family relationships and true friendships. All in all, it’s a fast, fun read.
Deby
The Guncle by Steven Rowley
Loved it! A fun look at family relationships and how they change and evolve.
Karen
One More Step by Colleen Hoover, A.L. Jackson, B.B Easton et. al.
Really enjoyed the concept of this book. Each writer was given the same first sentence to start their story. Each story is so unique.
Teresa
Really Good, Actually by Monica Heisy
Maggie struggles mightily with a divorce she wanted, but isn’t sure if she now regrets it. I enjoyed the kind of stream-of-consciousness writing, but she’s awfully whiny.
Jill
True Biz by Sara Novic
I have learned so much about the deaf community that I might sign up to learn American Sign Language!
Rita
Our Souls at Night by Kent Haruf
A sweet and tender story about two neighbors who have lost their spouses. Addie Moore has known Louis Waters' wife for years but not Louis very well. One day Addie Moore paid a call to Louis. A little shy to ask Louis about her proposal, Addie asked, "Would you mind keeping me company in the evenings?" This story is a wonderful and endearing read. I felt like I was right there witnessing two older people cherish every moment together. It was also made into a movie.
Jane
Forget What You Know by Christina Dodd
I was surprised with this book. By the end I understood more. Surprises and dangers. Actions everywhere. Not what you suspect. People everywhere trying to steal the Dragon Heart end up killed. The town of Gothic grows on you. Zoey Phoenix is hit by a vehicle trying to kill her. Her mother gets her ex-husband to take care of her. Her mother disappears. Zoey breeds flowers and has a secret garden. The town is hosting a flower show. Luca's mother shows up. She insists on staying at Zoey's. The ending brings everything together. Secrets are exposed. Family brought together. I think you need to get this and read it. I loved it.
Pat
The Wedding Dress Sewing Circle by Jennifer Ryan
Great to learn how women bonded to achieve some joy of creating a dress amid the tragedy of the WWII in England.
Dawn
The Bandit Queens by Parini Shroff
I enjoyed this book and its colorful characters, learning a lot about Indian culture along the way.
Jackie
The Book Woman's Daughter by Kim Michele Richardson
I loved this book so much. I couldn't put it down. I am still missing all the wonderful characters. I'm hoping the author will continue this wonderful story.
Sheree
Earth's the Right Place for Love by Elizabeth Berg
What a lovely read. It had everything about family drama and a wonderful love story. You only wished that Nora would have realized that Arthur was the one for her from the beginning instead of searching out the popular boys. I didn't want this story to end!
Angie
The Housemaid by Frieda McFadden
Quick easy chapters. Suspenseful mood throughout. A very fast read. I loved Nina's frenzied madness and Millie's desperation to try to hold onto her job.The husband Andrew has such a sweet, patient caring disposition. Great read!
Lana
In the Valley of the Kings: Howard Carter and the Mystery of King Tutankhamun's Tomb by Daniel Meyerson
When I checked this book out from my local library I thought it would be a quick enjoyable read at 199 pages. Alas, that was not to be. The author jumps back and forth in modern time (1890s to 1920s) with no apparent rhyme or reason that I could find. Throughout the book, I felt there had to be information I wasn't picking up on which caused me to never feel connected to what I was reading. Throughout the book I thought about not finishing it, but my stubbornness wouldn't let 199 pages defeat me. I wanted something to show; i.e. a finished book for the time I expended.
Muriel
The Night Ship by Jess Kidd
Ms. Kidd has done an excellent job with riveting stories for two different timelines. The 1629 sinking of the Batavia and all that happened to those marooned on several remote island was based on fact with material gleaned from diaries and personal accounts. The every other chapter portion of the book in 1989 served to tell the story of young Gill, a lonely boy sent to live with his grandfather on one of the islands the 1629 survivors had been on. Archaeologists are there uncovering artifacts from the wreck. Neither of the timelines contains a happy story, but both are of high interest. Ms. Kidd has done an excellent job depicting the characters, some of whom you feel great compassion and admiration for and some whom the reader loathes.
Anita
The Book Spy by Alan Hlad
This is a beautifully-written book about an American librarian and microfilm specialist who is sent to Lisbon by our government to gather information from Axis publications during WWII. In Portugal she meets Tiago, a young man who owns a bookstore and is helping Jewish Refuges obtain forged passports to gain passage to the United States. There was so much in this novel that is based on fact that I did not know. Things that were never taught in school and were not in the history books. I loved it and had difficulty putting it down. I highly recommend it!
Darlene
48 Clues into the Disappearance of My Sister by Joyce Carol Oates
Great fast read.
MH
West with Giraffes by Lynda Rutledge
Loved this book! Reminded me of THE LINCOLN HIGHWAY in that it is a road trip across the country. Set in the 1930s, during a period in which Americans had not seen giraffes, it tells the story of two men (and a girl tag-a-long) taking two giraffes to the San Diego zoo. Each day brings a new set of challenges.
Claudia
Mad Honey by Jodi Picoult and Jennifer Finney Boylan
Learned a lot about a transgender girl’s struggles.
Lori
Pineapple Street by Jenny Jackson
Rich folk do live differently than the rest of us, but can money buy you happiness?
Sheila
The Tea Girl of Hummingbird Lane by Lisa See
I enjoyed reading this book for the third time! Never have I read a book 3x's before. It's so rich in details of the minority Akha Chinese people, along with American Chinese adoptees. Beautifully written with amazing women.
Sheila
The Magnolia Palace by Fiona Davis
I especially enjoyed this book since I have been to the Frick Museum. I loved reading about the family who lived there. The next time I go to NYC I will look for all the statues and revisit the museum. The story itself was slightly confusing with the two plot lines, but I loved how they came together at the end.
Rosa
Dust Child by Nguyễn Phan Quế Mai
This is a beautiful story that brought to light for me something I had never thought about before: the plight of Amerasian children, now adult, born to Vietnamese women and American GIs during the Vietnam War. There are three stories in this book: 1) of Trang and Quynh, two sisters who move to the city of Saigon from their small village so they can earn money to help their parents pay off debts, 2) of Phong, the adult child of a Black American GI and Phong's mother, who left him at an orphanage when he was an infant, 3) of Dan, an American GI who is haunted by his experience in Vietnam. I was immersed in all three stories and could not put the book down.
Sally-Jo
Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver
What a great book about the broken Social Services system and how children are pawned off into foster care homes. Barbara Kingsolver is a genius storyteller. I loved the characters and how she developed them. It's so sad how drug addiction is rampant in this country. I recommend it to everyone.
Michele
The View from Coral Cove by Amy Clipston
Maya inherits a toy shop from her great aunt. She thinks that it's a great place to live and work and heal her broken heart. She gets so much more. She finds healing and love from just being there, not only the love of her life but love from a parent, too. Good book!
Linda
The Magnificent Lives of Marjorie Post by Allison Pataki
A historical novel that portrays a strong, smart, wealthy heiress who successfully builds on her father's food industry. Marjorie enjoys buying and decorating estates and lavish entertaining, but she also has a philanthropic side. A sad flaw in an otherwise enviable life, however, is her poor judgment in husbands. Fun to read how the "rich and famous" live!
Joan
Thee Book Woman of Troublesome Creek by Kim Michele Richardson
Highly recommended.
san
Maureen by Rachel Joyce
Arthur Truluv's wife's story. Finding herself and making herself better.
Donna
The Premonition by Michael Lewis
Several scientists had been predicting the rise of a new virus before COVID spread all over the world. This is the story of how they tried to get the government and the CDC to take action to prevent widespread illness before it came to America.
Laurie
All That Is Mine I Carry With Me by William Landay
A haunting and frighteningly dysfunctional family drama that kept me up at night turning pages with a strong heartbeat! William Landay has written an emotional murder crime novel. Bravo!
Beth
Horse by Geraldine Brooks
I love this author and loved the book. It’s a fictionalized account of a real racehorse that lived from the 1850s to the 1870s and was one of the fastest horses in U.S. history and his enslaved groom. The story also follows a present-day art historian who rescues a portrait of the horse from a curb where it’s being thrown out and a woman who reconstructs the horse’s bones It’s a fascinating look at 19th century horse racing, its intersection with slavery and the Civil War and present day sleuthing to learn about this horse and portraits of it and its groom.
Jenny
Out of Warranty by Haywood Smith
We are in trying times right now which can cause stress and anxiety. I decided to choose this book to read because the author writes humorous, lighthearted books that will make you laugh out loud. She always has endearing, memorable characters that we all can relate to. I found it charming and enjoyed reading this one.
Sandra K.
Snow Country by Sebastian Faulks
I am a fan of Faulks’ books, but this was not one of his best. I found the characters to be rather flat, although the time period of the book was fascinating.
Cheryl
Bark to the Future by Spencer Quinn
You have to love Chet! Bernie is extremely loving his past after meeting a high school buddy fallen on hard times.
Janet
In the Waning Light by Loreth Anne White
I picked this book up in a Little Library. Caught my attention from the beginning.
Barbara
Go as a River by Shelley Read
You raved about this one, and I agree. A stunningly beautiful book. I loved the characters and setting. Best book of the year for me!
Diana
Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano
I was so looking forward to reading this, having enjoyed DEAR EDWARD, as well as it being an Oprah Book Club pick. So I was somewhat disappointed with the heaviness, almost tedious prose of the book. I thought it a far reach to compare it to LITTLE WOMEN. I finished it, but by the end I wasn’t that interested in what happened to the characters.
Betty
The Personal Librarian by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray
The story of a woman who reached beyond her race and status in the world to become an authority on incunabula -- the earliest printed books -- and the trusted advisor of one of the richest men in the world.
Dianne
The Magnolia Palace by Fiona Davis
Another wonderful historical tale set this time in the Frick Museum.
Becky
The Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper by Phaedra Patrick
A widower decides to finally clean out his wife’s belongings and finds a charm bracelet he never saw before. He searches for the story behind the charms.
Becky
The Last Word by Taylor Adams
Strange happenings following Emma’s one-star review of a book. She is house-sitting in a remote location.
Elizabeth
The Greedy Three by Karen Katchur
We meet many characters in this tense, different read. You will be on the edge of your seat as you read.
Elizabeth
Once We Were Home by Jennifer Rosner
Beautifully told in her mesmerizing style, Jennifer Rosner introduces us to four characters who suffered through the war and beyond. Another beautiful, beautiful but heartbreaking-to-the-core read based on true events. ONCE WE WERE HOME does have some happy stories tucked inside as well, along with comments you will ponder, and thoughts about life’s worries and lessons.
Elizabeth
The Good Luck Cafe by Annie Raines
THE GOOD LUCK CAFE is a sweet read with an adorable, headstrong main character you will fall in love with. Truly an enjoyable read. You won’t want to stop reading or want the book to end.
Elizabeth
The London Seance Society by Sarah Penner
Ms. Penner thoroughly researched seances, but this book was a disappointment. I loved THE LOST APOTHECARY and was looking forward to another great read.
Susann
Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano
Beautiful writing with such a tearful story. I enjoyed DEAR EDWARD, but this is more believable.
Vickie
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Truly enjoyed this book. Was surprised at the end. I have recommended it several times and each has enjoyed it.
Laura
Daisy Jones and the Six by Taylor Jenkins Reed
Rereading before watching the series on TV. This is the story of how the (fictional) band Daisy Jones and the Six rose to fame and crashed and burned over the course of a few years in 1970s. It is told from the perspective of band members, agents and media in short snippets. It is a fast read and really well done.
Jennifer
The Age of Light by Whitney Scharer
This captured the atmosphere of late 1920s/early 1930s Paris so well. It wasn't repetitious or preachy, two pet peeves. It made me want to read an actual biography (or 3) of Lee Miller, which means it's done its job. Very enjoyable!
Ivy
Decent People by De'shawn Charles Winslow
Profound story of the lengths one filled with hate will go to destroy a family in a small town.
Rose
The Only Survivors by Megan Miranda
Thank you to Book Club Favorites at Simon & Schuster for the free copy for review. Two vans of high school students went on a service trip to Tennessee, but only 9 students survived the trip, with 1 dying shortly after. Now, 10 years later, on an annual trip to the Outer Banks, Cassidy Bent is wary of the other 6, having just learned that her friend, Ian, died 3 months earlier. She has the feeling she is being watched, and can't trust the others. But they don't trust her either. Someone has told the details of what happened that fateful night, and everyone is anxious. The story is told in the present and also revisits the event 10 years in the past. The reason for the crash and events of the night are finally revealed.
Nancy
All My Knotted-up Life by Beth Moore
This is an autobiography. If I had read it as fiction, I would have said, "All of these things don't happen to one person." Regardless of religious orientation (or lack of), this basically fundamental Christian speaker and teacher will surprise with her honesty and courage. If I had read this book as fiction, I would have said, "All of these things do not happen to one person." Beth Moore, a basically fundamental Christian speaker and writer, tells it all -- from sexual assault, mental illness, and standing up to her own denomination. An excellent writer, she tells stories of her childhood and her marriage with humor, courage and honesty.
Richard N B
The Eyes of the Dragon by Stephen King
Well, this was a fairy tale I never expected from Stephen King. I was reminded of a number of classic fairy tales, adventure quests and such that enthralled and entertained me when I was a kid. This story spoke directly to the child that still dwells inside me. It allowed me to suspend disbelief while I cheered for the hero and hissed at the villain.
Michelle
The Four Winds by Kristin Hannah
This book was absolutely amazing. Such a great story about love, heartbreak, strength, and determination and what it does to a family. I could not put this book down. I also suggest grabbing Kleenex for this one!
Kaylyn
A Court of Wings and Ruin by Sarah J. Maas
I don't normally give books 5 stars, but this book is captivating. It's the third book of the series and I'll be completely honest, it made me cry multiple times. The character development is absolutely fantastic. Every character contributes to the plot and every character has a ravishing backstory. In this book, there is a war going on between mortals and faeries. A woman and her three sisters are made into High Fae. A women named Feyre saves the whole book; she is the amazing main character. This book was so captivating.
Kaylyn
Serpent and Dove by Shelby Mahurin
The book was okay. It was hard to read with the multiple French references.
Chris
Tell Me an Ending by Jo Harkin
Interesting, thought-provoking, lots of opportunities for discussion.
Rose
It Ends at Midnight by Harriet Tyce
I just finished another book with this exact same twist, so as I was reading it, this twist was always in the back of my mind. Sylvie is a barrister in London and up for a position in the Court. Her boyfriend, Gareth, a caterer, lives in Scotland, where Sylvie and her friend, Tess, were raised.
Tess is diagnosed with a fatal disease and asks Sylvie to tell Tess's estranged husband, Marcus. She also wants Sylvie to participate in a renewal of vows ceremony, and also to find a woman that Tess feels they wronged. Sylvie is apprehensive about this. Meanwhile there is a story of two bodies found impaled on a railing after a NYE party. These are parallel stories.
Pam
Switchboard Soldiers by Jennifer Chiaverini
Fascinating little known history of women serving in WWII.
Pam
All the Broken Places by John Boyne
Beautiful, thoughtful sequel to Boyne's WWII novel, THE BOY IN THE STRIPED PAJAMAS. Powerful and emotional with a surprise ending you won't see coming!
Pam
The House of Eve by Sadeqa Johnson
Historical fiction at its best - beautifully written and immersive, with complex characters and fascinating details of time and place.
Jane
The Magnificent Lives of Marjorie Post by Allison Pataki
I did not think I was going to enjoy this book, but it was a choice for a book club month. I ended up enjoying learning all about Mrs. Post, who, at one time, was the richest woman in the world. It was encouraging to know that she shared her wealth through many philanthropies, and interesting to learn about her four husbands! Well written in the first person.
Helen
The Cloisters by Katy Hays
A suspenseful story, set in the beautiful medieval museum, the Cloisters. Many great plot twists and a stunning finish.
Helen
Cleopatra: A Life by Stacy Schiff
A fascinating book of one of history’s most famous woman rulers. A riveting read.
Rose
Lost Identity by Karl Braungart
This is the start of a series featuring Paul Remmich and Eric Miller, two U.S. Army intelligence officers. When Miller is approached to be a spy, he refuses. However, his friend Remmich is unknowingly drugged and hypnotized into spying for the Iraqis. Miller thinks something is strange with his friend, but he can't figure out what it is. Paul is a good target because he works in encryption and has access to classified information. The book is interesting and scary at the same time. Could this actually happen, where a US intelligence officer is drugged and hypnotized into working for the enemy? More to come in Book 2!
Rose
Penis Politics: A Memoir of Women, Men and Power by Karen Hinton
I wasn't sure what to expect from the title, but this is a well written memoir about men and how they wield their power over women. The author says that domination is at the heart of her title: A man maintaining power over a woman through gender of sex-based control. Hinton begins her memoir with a tale of her with her three girlfriends when they learn that their basketball coach has had relations with one of them against her will. They want to expose him, but Janice won't let them. This spirals into disaster for Janice. Hinton then tells of other incidents as she goes through college and then works in the world of politics, first in MS races, then onto the White House, working for Andrew Cuomo at HUD, in Clinton's cabinet. Insightful.
Elizabeth
The Echo of Old Books by Barbara Davis
Finding books that have no author had Ashlyn on a mission to find out who had written these treasures about a love story gone wrong. THE ECHO OF OLD BOOKS has the imaginative, descriptive, pull-you-in writing style Ms. Davis excels at. You will be in for a treat...don't miss it.
Laurel
Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson
Captivated by the story. I enjoyed how it moved back and forth in time.
Pearland
Scorched Grace by Margot Douaihy
I thought the concept of this book was interesting, but the execution was not great. However, I'd be interested in seeing how this develops into a series.
Rhonda
The House of Eve by Sadeqa Johnson
This was a beautifully-written story. It was interesting following the lives of Eleanor and Ruby. I loved how the two women were strong while dealing with difficult circumstances and times. Their lives were interwoven in an unexpected way.
Rose
It's One of Us by J. T. Ellison
3.5 rounded up to 4. Olivia and Park Bender are desperately trying for a baby, but Olivia keeps miscarrying. Then, when a woman is found dead, the police come to the Bender's home with news. There has been a DNA match to Park, but it is not an exact match, it is from his son. Park is dumbfounded, he doesn't have a son. Then, he realizes that he donated sperm years earlier, and as a result, there are many offspring of his. A daughter is running a group called "the halves", which are all his children. They realize that the murderer is "one of us". This puts another strain on Olivia and Park's marriage. Park's past resurfaces, he was close to a few women who were found dead. Is Park guilty?
Tessa
Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt
Van Pelt weaves disparate characters into a tapestry of love, forgiveness and second chances. The story is tender and heartwarming and charming, if a little unbelievable. I was completely captured by it and loved every minute I spent with them. The ending is pretty perfect. This is a strong debut and I eagerly await the author’s next effort!
Sherri
Fairy Tale by Stephen King
Very different for King, but suspenseful and a great deal of fun! I highly recommend it.
Debbie
Kunstlers in Paradise by Cathleen Schine
KUNSTLERS IN PARADISE follows a Jewish family from 1939 Vienna to current-day Los Angeles. The story centers on Salomea, called Mamie, as she navigates her life at the age of ninety-three. Covid hits the country, and Mamie’s grandson Julian leaves Manhattan and flies to Los Angeles to live with his grandmother. Mamie had fallen and injured her wrist, and Julian had lost his job, his girlfriend, and his best friend. The two struggle and bond during this adjustment period. Mamie delivers stories of her life and history of the family for Julian to preserve. Little secrets fall into Julian’s lap as Mamie reveals the Kunstler family history. Mamie’s tales shine in the beginning and gradually turn tedious.
