This contest period's winners were Jeanne K., Meggan W. and MH H., who each received a copy of BLOOD LINES by Nelson DeMille and Alex DeMille and THE EXCHANGE by John Grisham.
Sean
The First Fifteen Lives Of Harry August by Claire North
I wanted to love this book by Claire North, twisting the way you think about time travel, but it had too many dull moments, too many head-scratching plot holes, and too many incredibly strange decisions by the main characters. Harry August relives his life after every death remembering every detail. He then realizes the world is ending and he can save it. There was some really great things about the book that I wished the author told us more about, Harry many lives. The book reads likes a magical historical fiction but gets bogged down by a "big bad" that didn't ring true to me. Overall, a good book, but I felt this could have been remarkable.
Linda
An Unreliable Truth by Victor Methos
Kelly Whitewolf, district attorney, wants the death penalty for Arlo Ward. Dylan Aster is the defense attorney and wants Arlo declared insane and sent to a psychiatric facility for the rest of his life. He is accused of brutally murdering three young people and mutilating their bodies. He chased another young woman to the edge of a cliff where she jumped to avoid being killed. She lived but suffered tremendous injuries. Dylan thinks he is innocent and he is taking the blame for someone else but Kelly is sure he is guilty and wants to ensure he is never free to commit another murder. Who is right? Was Arlo an innocent victim of schizophrenia or was he guilty as charged?
Linda
Where Are the Children Now? by Mary Higgins Clark and Alafair Burke
Melissa is married to Charlie Miller and is a stepmother to Riley. Riley disappears while Melissa sleeps. Her brother Mike has difficulty waking her while he asks where is Riley? This begins a nightmare similar to the one she lived through when she was kidnapped as a child. She had tried to block her memories even while Mike told her she needed to talk to a psychiatrist about her experience. Now the nightmares are reoccurring. Police suspect she took Riley and drowned her. Then she wonders who her husband really is.
Linda
This Is How We End Things by R. J. Jacobs
There is a team of 6 psychology grad students who form a team in leading an experiment with test subjects. One is found dead in the professor’s office with her throat slit. Was she going through the files? Days later, the professor was murdered in his home with his throat slit. Detective Alana Larson thinks the killer is one of the students, but which one?
Linda
Unfortunately Yours by Tessa Bailey
Natalie Vos and August Cates have a love/hate relationship. They secretly are attracted to each other but love to trade insults. Natalie is Napa Royalty as the Vos Vineyards are widely known and respected. August has started a vineyard in memory of his SEAL buddy. Natalie wants to start an investment firm in New York and wants to get the money from her trust fund. In order to get the money, she has to be married and employed. She knows August needs money and was turned down by the bank so she comes to him with a solution. If they married and she was employed by Zelnick Cellar, she could get her money and he could get his loan. August wants a real marriage, no pretending!
Linda
The American Roommate Experiment by Elena Armas
When the ceiling on her apartment fell in, Rosie Graham heads to her bestie Lina's apartment. She finds that Lina's cousin Lucas is staying in the apartment and has no idea that Rosie is there. Nor does Lina have any idea that Rosie has fantasized about Lucas ever since she saw his photo on his website, and now he’s here in person even better looking than his photo. Rosie only has a few weeks before her new book is due and she’s suffering writer’s block. Lucas offers to help and they devise a dating experiment. Will it work or will the attraction both feel turn into something real?
Linda
The Notorious Lord Knightly by Lorraine Heath
Arthur Pennington, the Earl of Knightly, was entranced by the beauty of Regina Leyland when he first saw her on her father’s arm. He met her at a park a few days later and fell madly in love. Their love grew and the wedding day arrived. Then he receives an ultimatum from his father. He tells Regina he can’t marry her. She leaves England and doesn’t return for five years. When they see each other again, they realize they never stopped loving one another. She doesn’t know whether she can trust him or not but knows she can’t live without him.
Linda
The Only One Left by Riley Sager
Kit McDeere comes to Hope’s End to be a caregiver for Lenora Hope. She was suspected of killing her parents and then tried to hang herself causing her spine to break leaving her paralyzed. Kit had been suspected of providing her mother with too many pain pills that resulted in her death. Kit and Lenora became friends and used a typewriter to communicate. Kit suspected Lenora was not as disabled as she appeared but could not prove it. She was curious as to what happened the night of September 29, 1929, the night of Lenora’s parents’ deaths.
Linda
The Love Plot by Samantha Young
A great love story as an independent young woman who grew up with hippie parents falls for a young man who grew up in a wealthy family. He falls for her and her unorthodox jobs including dressing up as characters for children's parties and being a line sitter for people who do not have time to stand in line themselves. He is a veterinarian and is fed up with the women his mother and sister-in-law are foisting on him. He pays her to be his faux girlfriend for a few months to get them off his back. She agrees. But what happens when the faux relationship turns into the real thing?
Mamie
An American Beauty by Shana Abe
Historical fiction about a little-known woman. Good character development.
Donna
The Paris Agent by Kelly Rimmer
A journey that threads the lives of two women.
Ann Marie
Sunburn by Laura Lippman
This was my first book by author Laura Lippman. I listened to actually on audio and her narrator is great. Loved the story, too.
Susan
The Boys by Ron Howard and Clint Howard
Reading about Ron Howard’s life was like meeting an old friend. Their parents were super supportive and helpful. A great book that I high recommend.
Joan
The Lincoln Highway by Amor Towles
I really liked the beginning of the book. As the story went on, more and more characters were involved and some of the were not at all likable.
MH
The First Ladies by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray
Although I enjoyed Marie Benedict’s other books more, I thought this book highlighted a part of Eleanor Roosevelt’s life that I didn’t know much about. However, the book shortchanged her other accomplishments, which were many. I was familiar with Mary Bethune as I lived near Daytona at one point and had been by the school, but didn’t realize they were friends. I enjoyed learning more about her and Roosevelt’s involvement with civil rights.
sherry
The Hand of Miriam by Ellen Gelerman
Very interesting, informative and educational. It enhanced the knowledge of my Judaism.
Teresa
Tom Lake by Ann Patchett
Just so beautifully written. This story of a woman who could have been a star and the long ago boyfriend who went on to be one is another instance of Patchett’s gift for writing.
Teresa
The Block Party by Jamie Day
Someone is dead - as in, murdered - by the end of the block party on Alton Street. Of course, we don’t know who did it, but oddly enough, we also don’t know who died. These wealthy suburban families are chock full of secrets, and the reader wonders whodunit and who’s the victim all through the book. It’s told from several characters viewpoints, but never in a way that confuses the reader. A fun read.
Elizabeth
No Reserve by Felix Francis
Loved it.
Darlene
Holly by Stephen King
Good as all King's novels!
Helen
Wrong Place Wrong Time by Gillian McAllister
Keeps your attention from the beginning. .
Sandra
Museum of Failures by Thrity Umrigar
Compelling story of Indian culture and adoption and family secrets that change the attitude and life of the main character. A young man returns from Ohio to Bombay, India to adopt the illegitimate baby of a friend's niece and so many unpredictable things happen. His relationship with his ill mother is challenged as he plows through the process. I read it fast as it was a great story.
Judie
Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury
I read this book during Banned Books Week as I had never read it before, even though popular culture refers to the theme of burning books. What really surprised me was Bradbury’s theme of the role of technology. Written in 1951 in the age of radio and when television was in his infancy, Bradbury describes Mildred and her friends who live in the world portrayed by the three wall screens of television in their homes. Mildred also has a “seashell” device constantly in her ear listening to music, news, talk shows, further distancing her from her husband. This glimpse into the future…our future, is prophetic. While our society is not burning books, many of our youth are not engaged in reading as their time is consumed by technology.
Alexandra
Love, Theoretically by Ali Greenwood
Cute and romantic read. Our group enjoyed reading it but not too much to discuss other than we all agreed to liking the characters.
Norma
In the Lives of Puppets by T. J. Klune
Everything written by Klune is a masterpiece of ingenuity. This one follows the adventures of droids and one lonely human. It is a cross between PINOCCHIO and THE WIZARD OF OZ.
Mary Ann
Happiness by Danielle Steel
Easy reading, always a happy ending.
Sheree
Spells for Forgetting by Adrienne Young
This book was recommended by Jodi Picoult and I agree with her, it was a book that was hard to put down! It kept you guessing to the very end. I would also recommend this book! I love a family saga!
Tessa
The Music of Dolphins by Karen Hesse
Mila is a young girl found living alone on an atoll off the coast of Florida. Apparently, she had survived a boat capsizing when just a toddler and was saved by (and “raised by”) a pod a dolphins. Now, she is a feral child, and a group of doctors, psychologists and sociologists are certain they know what is best for her. There were times when I felt incredibly sad for her (and her dolphin mother). Times when I applauded her “progress” and delighted in the discoveries she made. Then ending is rather ambiguous, and I’ve read the last three or four chapters over and over again, trying to come to a definitive conclusion.
Debbie
Ordeal by Innocence by Agatha Christie
ORDEAL BY INNOCENCE does not follow the standard Agatha Christie format. This novel presents the psychology of the suspects in a murder of a domineering woman. Rachel Argyle, a wealthy and generous woman, falls victim to death by a poker. Her adopted son, Jacko, falls prey to a conviction for her murder and dies in prison from pneumonia. He had claimed his innocence by stating a man gave him a ride. The man, Dr. Calgary, meets with obstacles and does not confirm Jacko’s plea until two years later. Dr. Calgary goes to the Argyle family to explain the situation that only opens old wounds. Each of the adopted children, the husband, the husband’s secretary, and a nurse explore their relationship with Rachel. A wonderful approach to murder.
Pat
Bright Lights, Big Christmas by Mary Kay Andrews
MKA never disappoints. I normally don’t read Christmas-themed books until first of Dec (to get in holiday mood) but couldn’t wait! Heartwarming story of adult brother and sister selling Christmas trees in NYC. Lots of happenings for them. LOVED IT…and you will also.
Dorothy
Someone Else’s Shoes by Jojo Moyes
I enjoyed it but some of it was very similar to THE MAID.
Maureen
The First Ladies by Marie Benedict and Victoria C. Murray
I’m a fan of Marie Benedict. Love her novels.
Linda
Bel Canto by Ann Patchett
Terrorists in South America take a famous opera singer, along with other birthday party attendees, hostage. This life-threatening scenario changes as both sides bond over their love of music and other commonalities. The novel reminded me not to take simple pleasures for granted.
Meggan
The Royal Secret by Lucinda Riley
Supposedly everyone has a "double". The question in this book is, which one is the real prince?
Linda
All We Ever Wanted by Emily Giffin
This wasn't one of my favorite books. An easy and quick read, but at one point I wondered if this was actually a YA novel. Neither the plot nor character development had much depth, in my opinion. For a mindless sort of weekend read, it will suffice. Light, very light, entertainment.
Loretta
The Happiness Plan by Susan Mallery
Great read! I could not put it down!
MARILYN
The House of Lincoln by Nancy Horan
This book sets Lincoln right in the middle of the times including the very mixed neighborhood in which he lived in Springfield, IL up to and including the devastating racially-instigated fire that destroyed the entire neighborhood.
Barbara
At the Coffee Shop of Curiosities by Heather Webber
Another engrossing and uplifting read by Webber, AT THE COFFEE SHOP OF CURIOSITIES presents a feel-good story of a young woman finding herself, acceptance, and love in a small town populated with some quirky characters. Which is to be expected in a Webber novel of magical realism. And there is a surprise at the end! No villains. No crime. just small town folks, good people, and a couple of lovable pets.
Cecilia
The River We Remember by William Kent Krueger
Mr. Krueger's stories always are on top of my reading list, and this one deserved no less. The characters are relatable, and the story has his usual depth, with nothing quite as it seems. Many of the players here had something to hide, with a readily shifting potential of being the guilty party, and how a simple mistake changed the course of many lives, as it so often does. The author did a wonderful job on revealing the effect that war had on many who returned, and how it affected their priorities and view of the world. It also spoke to the effect that money and power has on a small community, in what they are willing to put up with from those who have it. A jewel of a story, told with depth and heart, enclosed in a tantalizing mystery.
Marilyn
Mad Honey by Jody Pucot
Compelling story, timely plot. Twists and turns and quite a learning experience.
Shelley
The Guest LIst by Lucy Foley
Set on a remote island with a guest list of characters that were not fully fleshed out but all had damages in their personal lives. Well-paced whodunit.
Holly
Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid
I read this book quickly when it first came out, and have read it again this month for my book club. Despite knowing the ending, it was still an interesting story the second time around. I spent more time focusing on the characters and the challenges they faced in 1960s Hollywood.
Mimi
Zero Days by Ruth Ware
True to form, Ruth Ware has a way of keeping us on the edge guessing. Good twists and turns but I enjoyed THE IT GIRL a bit more.
Simonne
The Woman they Could Not Silence by Kate Moore
True Story set in the late 1800s of Elizabeth Packard’s harrowing time in the Illinois Insane Asylum.
She was placed there after she became inconvenient to her husband while daring to express opinions! She lived a nightmare while fighting for rights for herself and others in the same plight.
Dorothy
Sherlock Holmes: The Montana Chronicles by John H. Watson
This is a very entertaining and well-done homage to Arthur Conan Doyle’s fascinating Sherlock Holmes canon. Four clever stories of the great detective in the American West. A good read for fans of historical fiction. Fitzgerald really recreates the milieu of the mining camps and the new towns that grew up because of the mining industry.
Karen
The Second Life of Mirielle West by Amanda Skenandore
A socialite who is married to an actor contracts leprosy (Hansen's disease). She is in denial and wants to focus on her active lifestyle and her two children. Against her will, she is sent to a place populated by other patients with leprosy. Her life changes dramatically. She has a roller-coaster of emotions of helping the medical staff while also wanting to leave to go home. It is a detailed picture of what patients had to endure and their individual challenges.
Kelly
The Last Devil to Die by Richard Osman
I love this series. The four octogenarians have fully-developed personalities. Their relationships with each other lead to such great dialog and some laugh-out-laugh situations. Occasionally there is a more serious topic that is dealt with honesty and compassion as it was in THE LAST DEVIL TO DIE. Just enjoyable reading.
Patricia
Wandering Through Life by Donna Leon
What a true delight was Donna in this bio, brought to life by her. In VENICE with Brunetti she is philosophical with underlying ideology. In WANDERING she is devil may care a really funny, a bit of her I never imagined. Most likely due to her Mother’s Celtic heritage, e.g. the only way to make mashed potatoes: half potatoes and half butter! It was a way to learn so much more about her!
Kimberley
Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid
This novel shares the Riva family’s story over a twenty-four hour period. It is revealing how the "sins of the father" tend to follow the children and closest family. With quite a cast of Malibu characters and its beach lifestyle, the reader is left hoping there will be a second novel!
Patricia
Code Red by Kyle Mills
Having read all Vince Flynn, I followed his successor Kyle Mills in all his books, especially this last as he passed on the torch of Mitch Rapp. As always a very informative, interesting novel with all of the remaining characters. He makes Mitch as au courant as ever, with a mellowing and maturing older person experiencing more future plans.
Patricia
The Raging Storm by Ann Cleeves
The third in her newest series of inspector MATTHEW VENN is a very good mystery with a variety of characters, many of whom could have murdered a visitor to Greystone. Much suspense and interplay of water, boats and people. Also Venn seemed to be a bit more relaxed and able to relinquish some work to more of his staff.
Jane
Run Rose Run by Dolly Parton and James Patterson
Suspense, danger, Romance, success, and more. AnnieLee hitch hikes all the way to Nashville. She is determined to become a singer. Ruth Anne is retired from singing. AnnieLee talks her way into getting to sing at Cat Paw bar. She isn't paid but just wants to sing. Ethan discovers her talent and insists Ruthanne come here her sing. Turns out Ruthanne owns the bar. She begins to help AnnieLee Keyes. Dangers appears often trying to hurt AnnieLee. Regan becomes her bodyguard. Danger from Annie's past pursues her trying to kill her. I don't want to give too much away. Buy your copy and learn about struggles of becoming a singer and the behind the scenes action.
Kay
The Personal Librarian by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray
An excellent tale of a little-known story!
Liz
Payback in Death by J. D. Robb
Although I love the characters, this has become so formulaic, that I can hardly stand it, and yet, I read it each time she writes a new one. Why? I don’t want to miss anything, but I can tell by the percentages on my Kindle how far I can skim the pages before I will read a page.
Jeanne
The President’s Wife by Tracey Enerson Wood
THE PRESIDENT'S WIFE by Tracey Enerson Wood is an outstanding historical fiction novel blended with history. It is the story of Edith Bolling Galt Wilson who became the second wife of President Woodrow Wilson. Edith became his most valued advisor and confident as the First World War became imminent. When the President’s health was in a precarious condition, it was Edith who stepped up determined to save him and shield his reputation as she was pretty much running the presidency on her own. The author did a great job in research and giving readers an insight into who Woodrow Wilson was as a man and as the President of the United States. This was an easy to read, heartwarming story.
Jeanne
Pink Lemonade Cake Murder Mystery by Joanne Fluke
PINK LEMONADE CAKE MURDER MYSTERY by Joanne Fluke is part of the Hannah Swensen Mystery Series and is a delightfully, though sometimes a little silly, cozy mystery with charming, quirky characters. Hannah tries to solve the murder of her Mother’s worst enemy when her mother becomes the prime suspect. The story has surprises, twists and turns, and just when I thought I figured out who the murderer was, up pops another suspect. The ending totally surprised me.
Jeanne
Fugitive in Hiding by Jenna Knight
FUGITIVE IN HIDING by Jenna Knight is a fast-paced, intense mystery from beginning to end as Naomi tries to help her brother who was set up and is being blamed for murdering someone. It is Book 4 in the Range River Bounty Hunters Series. Naomi dreads asking her ex-husband, Connor, for help, but she has no one else to turn to. This is a bone chilling, intense, intriguing story that I couldn’t put down. I received a copy of this from the author through Fresh Fiction and these opinions are strictly my own.
Jeanne
Hatteras Island Mystery by Anne Greene
HATTERAS ISLAND MYSTERY by Anne Greene is a well-written, fast-paced, easy to read, intriguing mystery full of suspense, surprises, danger and drama. When wedding photographer, Misty takes a photo of a man at a wedding and later discovers his body in the ocean. He survived but has amnesia and Misty must solve the mystery of who the man is and why is someone trying to kill him before they are both killed. The author did a good job creating and crafting the characters who fit perfectly with the storyline. I read this in one day and really enjoyed reading it. I think this would make a great first book in a new series. I received a copy of this book from the author and these opinions are strictly my own.
Connie
The Secret of Snow by Viola Shipman
Story of a woman who grew up in Michigan but went to Palm Springs after college to get away from the winter weather and to be a meteorologist. After being fired and having a meltdown on TV, she moved back to home in Michigan to rescue her career despite the terrible weather.
Francine
Bright Lights, Big Christmas by Mary Kay Andrews
This was a great way to kick off my Christmas reading. Mary Kay Andrews never disappoints. Living in the East Village, I found this story especially interesting since it took place in neighboring Greenwich Village.
Katie
Atalanta by Jennifer Saint
Greek mythology retellings are interesting to me because I did not know much about Greek mythology before reading this new genre. The plot of this one was interesting to me: a huntress raised by bears! Atalanta is a fierce, feminist character who overcomes hardships right from the beginning - she was left on a mountain to die because her father wanted a son and not a daughter. I listened to the audiobook and really enjoyed it. I also enjoyed ARIADNE by this author and look forward to reading more books by this author.
Liz
The Personal Librarian by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray
Belle da Costa Greene is only on her mid twenties when she is given the unbelievable opportunity to work as J.P. Morgan’s personal librarian. Through the years she becomes an invaluable asset, a fixture in NY Society and one of the most influential people on the art world. However, Belle has a secret, that, if it comes out, will destroy everything she has accomplished. This is a very interesting story, but at times a bit dry.
Susan
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
Astounding! A fantastic story with plotting you can't guess, humour, poignancy, great relationships and the feel of real life for those of us who lived (and still are) living through this desecration of half the human race in a culture pretending to be taking care of its women and children.
Mel
The Deserter by Nelson DeMille and Alex DeMille
DeMille is probably my favorite author, and I've read almost all his stuff including all the John Corey novels, but for some reason I was hesitant to read THE DESERTER due to it being a co-authored novel. I was also a little disappointed by THE MAZE, but I gave in and did THE DESERTER ahead of BLOOD LINES coming out. I was not disappointed. Indeed, I think Alex must have helped his dad regain some focus, felt like one of the older Corey books. As someone with family who lives in Caracas, I felt the DeMilles nailed the feel of the place. Also, the candor and spunk of both Scott Brodie and Maggie Taylor has left me eagerly awaiting BLOOD LINES. I had to hold off on giving it 5 stars, but only because I know what Nelson DeMille is capable of.
Dianne
It Ends with Us by Colleen Hoover
Another story of domestic violence and one heroine's attempt to break the cycle. This was a good story that kept my interest. It did not add anything new to the problem of domestic violence nor a new solution.
Gail
The House is on Fire by Rachel Beanland
Excellent perspective on an important historical event and tragedy. Loved the different main characters with their individual experiences of the same event.
Sandra
The River We Remember by William Kent Krueger
I told a friend that William Kent Krueger could write a grocery list and it would be the best thing I had ever read. He is an incredible storyteller!!
Rose
The Echo of Old Books by Barbara Davis
Ashlyn Greer, owner of a rare book shop, has a gift. She feels emotions, or echoes, when she touches books. The echoes give her a glimpse into the feelings the book's owner had when they had the book. She comes across a book, 'Regretting Belle', with no author or copyright noted. Then, a little later, another similar book-its companion, 'Forever, And Other Lies'. Ashlyn tries to solve the mystery of who wrote these two heartbreaking stories about Belle and Hemi who were lovers in 1941. The books blame the other party for a series of events that derailed the love story.
As Ashlyn, and Belle's great-nephew, Ethan, dig deeper into this story, the truth comes out and exposes a love that was cut short, but not before life-changing events.
Katrina
Hunting Adeline by H. D. Carlton
This book was fantastic. This is a sequel to HAUNTING ADELINE, and I stayed up late finishing it. If you are into dark romance, I highly recommend.
Francisca
Murder in the Sentier by Cara Black
Book number three in the Aimee LeDuc Investigations mystery series. This time it’s personal as Aimee tries to find out about her mother, an alleged former terrorist who served time in prison. I like Aimée as a lead character. I like that she is intelligent, independent, resilient, strong, and more than capable when it comes to defending herself. But I was not a great fan of this storyline.
Rose
Evil Thing: A Villains Graphic Novel by Serena Valentino
I do not typically read graphic novels, so this is a new genre for me. This is an interesting take on the 101 Dalmatians backstory highlighting a friendship between Cruella De Vil and her friend, Anita. It also examines Cruella's relationship with her parents. I thought there were some gaps in the story with no explanation, but it had a unique backstory.
Rose
Thief River Falls by Brian Freeman
Quick read, with an ending that I didn't see coming! Lisa Power is an acclaimed author who wrote a bestseller about her hometown, Thief River Falls. A young boy appears in her yard, after the police have come to her house. The young boy doesn't remember his name or how he got there. Lisa calls him Perdue, the same name as the boy in her book. As the story progresses, Lisa tries to keep Perdue safe from the men who were chasing him. She can't trust anyone, even those she thought were her friends. The hints are all there, but I was so engrossed in the story that I missed them, although I was puzzled by some of the things mentioned. If I thought about it, I could have understood that the ending would be a shocker.
Suzanne
The Dead Will Tell by Linda Castillo
Someone is in the house and little Joe wakes Billy. Billy leaves his brother and goes to investigate. The English man is masked and ordering Mamma and Datt to give them money. The money is gotten from the jar above the stove. Things go wrong and Datt is killed and Mamma is taken. Fire breaks out and Billy is the only survivor. It is now thirty fives years later and a connection is found in another murder.
Sharron
Looking for Alaska by John Green
I picked this book because I thought it was an adventure about the state of Alaska. Instead it is about a teenage girl with the name Alaska who was a student in a boarding high school. Story is told from Miles' point of view who chose this school because he had no friends and was bullied at his home high school. Miles' roommate is the Colonel, with a single mom who works at a Waffle House and lives in a trailer. These misfits have numerous adventures, trying to be "somebody" and make a name for themselves. Alaska is the "brains" behind the pranks and adventures. the book was more suited to young adults with growing pains and trying to find themselves.
Beth
False Witness by Karin Slaughter
The best thrillers are made up of situation after situation that make the reader wonder how the author can write herself out of it. Of course, FALSE WITNESS does that. I say "of course" because it is another Karin Slaughter thriller, and you can always count on her to write the best.
Two sisters, after murdering the pedophile who victimized them when they were in their early teens, are living different lives 20 years later. Leigh is now a lawyer; Callie is a junkie hooked on heroin. The sisters continue to love one another, and each tries to protect the other. Leigh has now been put in the position to defend the pedophile's son who is accused of rape, a charge he is guilty of. This son, it turns out, is much like his father.
Anita
The Last Thing He Told Me by Laura Dave
Hannah is married to Owen Michaels. They have been married a short time and Owen's daughter, Bailey is not happy with her new stepmother. Owen's wife was killed in a car accident when Bailey was very young. One day Owen's boss is arrested for fraud and Owen disappears. Hannah fears that Owen is also responsible for what is happening and will be arrested also. A young girl brings Hannah a note from Owen stating "Protect her". She cannot reach him and it looks like he has disappeared. Hannah starts searching for answers, and discovers some things about her husband she did not know. This was a very hard book to put down. It was a real page- turner with many surprises. I loved it!
Carol
Spare by Prince Harry
Hats off to the ghost writer, editor, etc. who helped pull this book together. The spacing, clear dates helped make this a better book. Should be required reading for the royal family. Was glad to read this side of the story.
Enid
The Keeper of the Hidden Books by Madeline Martin
THE KEEPER OF HIDDEN BOOKS by Madeline Martin is a wonderful story of those who choose to protect and preserve books that were banned when the Germans occupied Warsaw during WWII, despite the fact they were risking their lives. It is filled with hope, determination, as well as love and sadness, for those who worked to keep the Polish culture alive.
Sharon A.
Sulfur Springs by William Kent Krueger
Though setting is in Arizona, not as engrossing as some of his others. Too many cave references.
Sharon A.
Radium Girls by Kate Moore
Very detailed, very engrossing and astonishing that none of this ever was publicized considering the number of girls who died from being exposed so negligently.
Rose
Shark Heart: A Love Story by Emily Habeck
I am giving this 4 stars for its creativity and its message of love, but I just wasn't invested in the mutation storyline. I did enjoy the love story of Lewis and Wren, and the relationship between Wren and her mother, Angela. It has a sweet message about love and caring, but again, the mutation was just too far out there for me.
Rose
The Other Guest by Helen Cooper
Leah's niece Amy died under mysterious circumstances. Leah wants to investigate what happened. However, she doesn't enjoy being with her family at the estate resort in Italy. Meanwhile, Jo, after breaking up with Luke, is melancholy about life and things that are happening at her university. After work, she goes to a pub, and meets the bartender. Oddly enough, they become acquaintances, and when Callum has an accident, Jo is the one that is called. As she struggles to trust Callum she finds out that he is involved in what happened in Italy. I was hoping for more from this thriller.
Peggy
To Catch a Storm by Mindy Mejia
A missing husband and a missing girl, the wife and the uncle of the girl join the hunt. Eve's expertise is scientific, and Jonah is a psychic. Neither of them are prepared for the danger they are about to step in. Two very different characters making for a fascinating mystery taking place in Iowa. Well thought out and suspense builds slowly, keeping the reader's interest until the end.
Karan
Horse by Geraldine Brooks
Wonderful story that weaves together history, science, horses, race relations, and family. Highly recommend it.
Susan
The River We Remember by William Kent Krueger
Wonderful read.
Cynthia
The Women by Kristin Hannah
What a story of the struggles of the women who went to Vietnam to fight and the nurses who never got recognized as heroes.
Lynne
Under the Java Moon by Heather B. Moore
I enjoyed this book because it gave me a different perspective of WWII. It talked about the Japanese prison camps in Indonesia through the eyes of a young child. The author worked with the survivir to tell her story but brought in fictional characters similar to real life ones. I learned a lot about the Dutch East Indies, the Japanese occupation, and how families survived. Similar to Holocaust survivors, those survivors in Indonesia tended to put their experiences behind them and not talk about it. The book was quite enlightening.
Natalie
The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store by James McBride
This novel is like a gift from James McBride. Loved every character and every turn in this story. Treat yourself to this book and then read every book he’s ever written. You won’t be disappointed.
Jeanne
12 Months to Live by James Patterson and Mike Lupica
12 MONTHS TO LIVE by James Patterson and Mike Lupica is a captivating thriller from beginning to end. Jane Smith is a strong, defense attorney determined who is up to her eyebrows in briefs and motions as she fights to get her client acquitted in the murder trial of the century. In the middle of the trial, Jane is given the devastating news she has terminal cancer with the prognosis being she has twelve months to live. The story is well written and fast-paced with danger, courtroom drama, twists and turns and romance. The ending totally shocked and surprised me.
Linda
The Wife App by Carolyn Mackler
Definitely chick lit, but a book worth reading. As one who's said for years, "I need a wife too," to my husband, I think this book nails why that is true for most women. The book is easy to read and packs in many issues. I found to be a subtle way to represent the hundreds of pulls wives/moms feel all day, every day. The story has a bit of an extreme feel to it. But like the TV series, "Desperate Housewives," that's part of the appeal. At least for me. I mean, if I had an independently wealthy friend I too could conquer this issue with the perfect app! Totally enjoyable read, and I was surprised to discover that this is Mackler's first adult novel. Her other books are YA, which I may now explore, too.
Francine
Mr. Mercedes by Stephen King
Wow! I’ve been a Stephen King fan since SALEM'S LOT. How in the world did I miss this? I want to read HOLLY, so I had to go back to the beginning. One of the best Stephen King books I’ve read, and I’ve read over 30 of his books. Of course, I had to continue the story of Holly, so now I’m halfway through FINDERS KEEPERS.
Cynthia
Reasonable Adults by Robin Lefler
I loved this delightful rom-com! The characters were endearing and the plot moved along quickly, keeping me engaged in the story to the very last page. What woman can't relate to a main character who struggles with feelings of failure and low self-esteem, seeking affirmation from others based on her performance? Add in some romantic roller coasters laced with humor, and you have the makings of a truly enjoyable novel. This would make for a great book club selection, and discussion questions are provided. This was just what I needed after reading a number of books with heavier themes, and I thank Robin Lefler for her gift!
Marilyn
Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver
Thoroughly enjoyed another Kingsolver book. The novel narrates the history of a poor southern boy’s growth in an incredible life from an addictive mother, abusive stepfather and a broken foster system.
Kathy
The Collector by Daniel Silva
The character, Gabriel Allon, is one of my favorites. Although he is familiar with death, often caused by him, he has the strength of moral character. I love the scenery, especially in Italy, and all of the artworks referenced throughout the book! Superb and an easy read to boot.
Kathleen
The Winners by Fredrik Backman
This is a 670-page book full of intrigue, love, hate, and small-town living. Two towns, Beartown and He’d, are rivals in hockey; the people there live and breathe it and are fiercely competitive. There is the young man whose life was changed when he didn’t get into the NHL, the couple whose love managed to last, a teenager who wants revenge for his sister’s death. This novel has it all. I loved it!
Linda
The Madness of Crowds by Louise Penny
This is another Armand Gamache, the chief homicide inspector of the Quebec police force, murder mystery. Penny's plots are multi-layered with a contrast between the goodness but also the darkness of humanity. She doesn't avoid controversial topics such as how a dynamic, convincing personality can pull "crowds" to her side, and if free speech needs censorship. What I love is that kindness and decency prevail!
Kara
The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein
Wonderful story of the lifelong relationship between a dog and his master. Having the dog as narrator, adds a special element to the story. Perfect for dog lovers!
Sharon
Canary Girls by Jennifer Chaiverini
This book so clearly outlines what happens when toxic materials get into one's system -- in this case TNT caused the yellowing of skin and discoloration of hair of those WWI women who worked to build the munitions so needed by the British forces. For some, the damage never resolved, for others, it disappeared after leaving the factory. Chiaverini weaves a delightful tale of these courageous women and the beginnings of women's football English style. Great read.
Jill
The River We Remember by William Kent Krueger
The setting and story are vintage William Kent Krueger. If you have loved THIS TENDER LAND and his Cork O'Connor mysteries, this is a must-read for you. Enjoy!
Joni
Tom Lake by Ann Patchett
This book was mesmerizing for me. I loved how she told her story to her daughters piecing it out a little at a time. On finishing it, I got a copy of OUR TOWN to reread after as was suggested. Having read it and seen performances eons ago rereading the play after finishing the book provided another dimension to both! I can’t wait for my book club to discuss it.
Wendy
Improbable Cause by J. A. Jance
I have read most of Jance's books but missed this one. It is early Beaumont but if you hadn't read the ones before this one you wouldn't understand some of the parts, like why he was able to afford a penthouse apartment on a cop's salary. This was typical Jance.
Donna
Murder Most Royal by S. J. Bennett
This is the third book featuring Queen Elizabeth solving a mystery and leaving clues for others to arrive at the correct conclusion. This novel is set at Sandringham at the beginning of the Christmas holiday. An aristocrat has been reported missing and possibly murdered. A severed hand is found and the Queen recognizes the ring on the hand. This information is reported in the media and soon the Queen is looking at the circumstances surrounding the disappearance. Her friendship and proximity to the aristocrat’s family allows her to ask questions and drop hints to those involved in the investigation. The book is entertaining and fun to read.
Debra
The Glass Chateau by Stephen P. Kiernan
5 fulfilling stars. “’What makes you think I am a storyteller?’ ‘I can hear your brain machine grinding all the way over here. A story to lift our spirits.’ ‘That’s no easy task in these times.’ ‘Do it anyway,’ Euclid growled. ‘Or die.’” Bravo. THE GLASS CHATEAU takes a different path through the glut of WWII historical fiction. It has lovely, crafted writing, compelling characters and a French setting in need of restoration, a plot arc, moral dilemmas, growth, and hope. Kiernan brings all the senses to the tale. The lush writing is descriptive, yet concise. I hope that THE GLASS CHATEAU will find many readers who start to notice a new world as they dive into fresh characters, subtle humor, the moral dilemmas of war.
shelly
Raspberry Danish Murder by Joanne Fluke
If you have read any of this series you know that Hannah Swenson Barton is great at giving us delicious recipes and helping solve murders. The first question is where Ross disappeared to without saying goodbye to his newly married wife. When P.K. is found dead from eating a piece of candy, Hannah starts to wonder if the candy/death was meant for her husband. She still cannot believe Ross is gone without leaving any signs or even secrets to his assistant P.K., but everyone is trying to help yet Lonnie, Mike Norman, and Michelle cannot find any clues. Making matters worse is that Pinkie, who was engaged to P.K., seems to also have disappeared. It is the last twenty pages will reveal the surprise ending.
Sheree
Wellness by Nathan Hill
Wow! This book had so much in it. Unhappy childhoods, unhappy marriages, unhappy lives. The story was fiction but it could have been nonfiction with scientific facts thrown in. It was hard to put the book down. You were invested in the story!
Rose
How High We Go in the Dark by Sequoia Nagamatsu
I am not typically a SciFi reader, but this book received nominations for best debut novel and best science fiction on Goodreads in 2022, so I thought I would try it. It is a uniquely told story of people in the aftermath of a climate disaster and the Arctic Plague. It takes place over several centuries, but the lives seem to be intertwined with each other. It discusses the love of parent and child, while also addressing the climate challenges on the planet and catastrophic effects that are taking place, wrapped in beautiful prose. Unique characters and situations, several will tug at your heartstrings. A haunting story. I really enjoyed it.
Rose
Mrs. Nash's Ashes by Sarah Adler
Loved, loved, loved this sweet book! Millie is on a mission to reunite Mrs. Nash's ashes with her longtime, and forbidden, love, Elsie. So, she heads from DC to FL, but all planes get canceled due to a technical glitch. She is forced to ride along with Hollis, a man she met through her ex, Josh. Perky Millie annoys Hollis with her mannerisms and quirks (she is delightful)! Their roadtrip is a series of mishaps and stories. I laughed so many times and rooted for this couple. I also loved the story of Rose Nash and Elsie Brown. It was a sweet story on so many levels, with very funny moments, as well as tender, moving, emotional moments. I highly recommend this!
Tessa
When Dimple Met Rishi by Sandhya Menon
This is a cute YA romcom featuring two young Indian-American students who are trying to keep their parents happy while pursuing their own dreams. Things get off to a rocky start, but their friendship slowly builds to something more…or does it? Told in alternating viewpoints, Menon gives the reader a satisfying and balanced romance.
Monica
The Wind Knows My Name by Isabel Allende
What a timely and thought-provoking story of immigration in our current time. The story is tightly woven and the characters are well developed. Isabel Allende is at the top of her game with this novel. It will pull at your heartstrings and make you root for the characters to find happiness!
Mary
The Red Lotus by Chris Bohjalian
International intrigue on a personal level sums up the plot of this novel, yet the details make the description come alive. Lovers travel to Vietnam where the man participates in group bicycle trips around the area. Against a tropical background some bad actors take pursuit of the male partner and later he is declared missing. What did the baddies want? How did the biker get free? Will anyone believe his far-fetched story? Will justice prevail? What role does the girlfriend play? These and other questions face the local police and American consulate. It all sounds unbelievable, but is it? Read this thriller for answers!
Janet
The Suspect by John Lescroart
It kept my interest but could have been shorter.
Shannon
One of Us is Dead by Jeneva Rose
This is a mystery told from multiple points of view of women living in Buckhead in Atlanta. The story begins with a woman being interrogated by a police detective about a murder. We do not know who the victim is, but we soon learn that it could be one of many. While I didn't care for most of the characters, I thoroughly enjoyed the story. There were plot twists I never saw coming and it was well written.
Linda
The Only Plane in the Sky: An Oral History of 9/11 by Garrett M. Graff
This book was amazing and I've read it twice. I cried many times as I read the experiences of the people in the Twin Towers, the plane, and the Pentagon. My book club is going to read it next season and discuss it. Graff had a wonderful way of grouping various people and their experiences together. I plan to lend this book to several teens.
Marcie
The Bird Hotel by Joyce Maynard
I have read another book of hers and didn't like it at all. This book I loved. The characters were relatable and easy to understand. The hardship of the village was taken well by the inhabitants and by Irene. She always thought it was a step to another place and then she thought she would never leave, but eventually she did.
Kristine
The Stranger Diaries by Elly Griffiths
I love a book within a book - is that considered a trope now? It was also perfectly timed with Halloween! I enjoyed the audiobook with a different narrator for each POV! Highly recommend!
Carol
Unraveling by Peggy Orenstein
A different type of memoir. Author learns to shear a sheep, sort of. Goes through all the steps of preparing the wool to yarn. Learns to dye the raw wool. Even learns how to design a sweater with the yarn. Ugly yes. But a journey in itself along with her family life during COVID. Each step was a life lesson or life realized. Thank you for the journey.
Francisca
The Arbornaut by Meg Lowman
I love trees. I really like reading about science. I love reading about strong women who pursue their dreams despite the obstacles place in their paths by societal expectations/restrictions. So, I should have loved this book. I didn’t. Yes, Lowman’s personal story was interesting and inspiring, but too much of the book read like an academic research paper.
Meggan
The Guilt Trip by Sandie Jones
Three couples share a villa in Portugal for a weekend wedding. The reception is crashed - literally - and one of the guests dies. Homicide? Suicide? Everyone has secrets, and I was definitely surprised by the final revelation.
Linda
The Roaring Days of Zora Lily by Noelle Salazar
This is my favorite book this whole year. It's absolutely beautiful from start to finish. It will make you cry but also laugh in places. It's historical at its best. About a clothing designer who started out dirt poor but rose up and did great. She found the love of her life but lost him. I can't say more than that. It's just a great book.
Rose
Pericles and Aspasia: A Story of Ancient Greece by Yvonne Korshak
This is the story of the building of Athens. Aspasia jumps from a ship where men have killed her father, and plan to use her for their pleasure. She swims to shore where she befriends Silky. She becomes a courtesan to Pericles, a powerful man and builder of the city of Athens, including the Parthenon. Aspasia is not a citizen of Athens, and therefore, doesn't have the rights as others do. However, she is cunning and educated, and when Pericles falls in love with her, she uses him to gain status for her and their child. Together Pericles and Aspasia become a force in building Athens. Interesting history of how Athens and its monuments to the gods were built.
Rose
The Duke of D.C.: The American Dream by James Allen Moseley
Parody. This book is a complete parody of government and people who call themselves "patriots". A couple time travels to 1776 where they find that a relative has been granted a duchy of all of D.C., and since it was ratified pre-Constitution, the person is granted sovereignty over this area of Washington. If you take the book as pure imagination and humor, it is fine, but otherwise, it's political bent is nonsense. I just can't make fun or laugh at anything associated with the storming of the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021.
Rose
Moon Tiger by Penelope Lively
While this was only about 200 pages, it felt longer to me. The narrator, Claudia, is on her death bed, and tells us she will write a history of the world. It is mainly HER history, of a life (and love) with her brother, Gordon, throughout their teen years and then later. She is jealous of his wife. However, she meets a man who is the love of her life. The story goes back and forth, highlights times of war and peace, and is a reflection of her life and loves. This has received critical acclaim, but it wasn't for me.
Liz
Next Year in Havana by Chanel Cleeton
Marisol has just lost her grandmother who raised her. Grandma wants her ashes spread in her homeland of Cuba. While there Marisol starts looking into her family’s past and what she finds surprises her. This had the potential of being an excellent book, however, because of the going back and forth between the characters is loses its momentum. I wish, as most women I know, authors would go back to writing a story from beginning to end. Also, this book had a bit too much of the Revolutionary background, which I found to be quite dry.
Rose
"Look Here, Sir, What a Curious Bird": Searching for Ali, Alfred Russel Wallace's Faithful Companion by Paul Spencer Sochaczewski
The author is on a quest to find Ali, the companion of Alfred Russell Wallace. The story is at times humorous and is always entertaining. The author employs psychics to assist him, but of course, he is skeptical with their responses. I especially enjoyed the chapter "Who is My Ali, and Who is Yours?", because the author points out that there are many people who help us along our way, even those that tell us no, as that gives us a chance to re-evaluate. I wasn't sure what to expect from this memoir, but I enjoyed it.
Michelle
The Rail Splitter by John Cribb
A fictionalized but historically researched novel about the early years of Abraham Lincoln. Really enjoyed the chance to learn about this Illinois childhood of one of our most beloved presidents. Can't wait to discuss it this week at book group.
Rose
Sown in Tears by Beverly Magid
Leah Popov is widowed in 1905 when Russian soldiers kill her husband, Morris, but spare the lives of her and her two sons. She offers a pair of combs to the soldier to spare their lives. Later, the Russian captain asks her to be the cook for the troops, but she is hesitant as she sees the soldier who killed Morris. She relents, in order to provide food for her boys, and to earn a few rubles. Capt. Vaselik becomes enchanted with Leah, although love between a Russian and a Jew is forbidden. As they enjoy each other's company, Leah worries that she may be shunned by her community and also worries for her safety as she acts as a courier for the underground Jews who oppose the Russians. As things get serious, Leah realizes she must flee to U.S.
Claire
Wrath Becomes Her by Aden Polydoros
3.5 stars rounded up. I enjoyed Vera's character -- her position as human-like, but fundamentally different physically, mentally, and emotionally was compelling. She, of course, had the struggle of wanting to be more human while also having a certain disdain for humanity that comes from seeing it from the outside. But more interesting was her desire to be part of a community and culture that she feels inherently connected to, but is cut off from because her existence is profane to them and because they have been decimated by the genocide and war that inspired her creation. She had no chance. The story captures well the loss of what should have been.
Debbie
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J K Rowling
What detail that J K Rowling provides of the characters, the setting, and the events! What an imagination to visualize this scientific and magical world. The movie follows the book very closely, but many minor events escape mention. I almost feel impelled to continue reading the series, but not really a lover of this genre. Harry bumbles into all sorts of trouble, but develops friendship with the Wesley brothers and Hermione. Rowling introduces the trials and delights of a live-in school and the perks and expectations of the various professors. Harry learns a little more about his parents and their arch enemy, Lord Voldemort. So many of the professors lead a double life and can easily fool Harry. A delightful reading!
Debbie
4:50 From Paddington by Agatha Christie
Nothing like reading an Agatha Christie as one waits in a doctor’s office for a friend. In over two hours, the book has almost been completed. The book differs from the Margaret Rutherford movie in many ways. First Rutherford’s Miss Marple does all the investigation herself at great peril to herself. In the book, Miss Marple delegates the groundwork to a much younger Lucy Eyelesbarrow. Lucy prevails to find a woman’s corpse after various antics to find clues. In the movie, Rutherford challenges every member of the family. Yes, as in all Christie’s prior mysteries, money stands as the curse for brutal murder. Christie presents many characters with different foibles. All seem to have reason to have killed this French woman, but why?
Francisca
The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman
Four septuagenarian residents of a luxury retirement community form the Thursday Murder Club. Gosh but I loved this! It was NOT “cute”. The four friends are absolutely serious about this investigation, but they each have issues, and secrets, that impact their work. In addition to the four friends, there are some twenty other characters with significant contributions to the total novel. Osman gave us some thrilling scenes, as well as scenes of great tenderness, and some humor to lighten the mood every once in a while. A complete delight of a book!
Rose
A House for Alice by Diana Evans
In 2017, in London, the Grenfell Tower fire destroyed 100+ homes and killed 72 people. In this novel, this fire happens on the same night Cornelius Pitt dies at his home after a fire. Cornelius was white, his wife, Alice, was from Nigeria. They have not lived together for many years and their children were torn over the fractured relationship, recognizing their father's cruelty. However, he has been sending money to Nigeria for Alice's relatives to build a house. Alice wants to return to Nigeria, but her children are not convinced this is best for her. Additionally, they are unsure if the house is complete. Meanwhile, each child has issues of their own - marital problems as well as others. I didn't feel for any of the characters.
Rose
Dial A for Aunties by Jesse Q. Sutanto
Meddelin Chan appreciates her family, but she feels that they are controlling. In fact, she never told them about her true love, Nathan, that she met in college. In fact, since she is expected to be a big part of her family wedding planning business, Meddy breaks up with Nathan when he goes to NY for work. Now years later, Meddy accidentally kills her blind date and gets her mom and aunties to help dispose of the body. The family sends the body in a cake cooler to a super fancy/expensive wedding and everything goes crazy! How Meddy, her Ma, her aunts, and yes, even Nathan, all manage to get out of this tangled situation is a comical story. True love will prevail all around. I look forward to the next installment of the aunties!
Beth
Firekeeper's Daughter by Angeline Boulley
FIREKEEPER'S DAUGHTER is billed as a young adult novel. I'm an adult, and YA novels usually bore me, but this one didn't. It kept me reading late into the night. What a pleasant surprise! Told in first person by the main character, Daunis, this book is the story of an 18-year-old girl who is half-white and half-Native American. After her best friend is killed by an ex-boyfriend high on meth, Daunis becomes a confidential informant for the FBI, trying to help solve the drug problem that is hurting her community and friends. FIREKEEPER'S DAUGHTER is a nail-biting mystery/thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat as Daunis becomes dangerously involved in drug operations both inside and outside her tribe.
