This contest period's winners were Eileen D., Karen M. and Sean P., who each received a copy of CLASS: A Memoir of Motherhood, Hunger, and Higher Education by Stephanie Land and THE MANOR HOUSE by Gilly Macmillan.
Debra
The Keeper of Lost Things by Ruth Hogan
I found the story very slow-moving.
Richard N B
Boundary Waters by William Kent Krueger
This is Book Two in the series and I’m really enjoying getting to know Cork O’Connor, his family and his community. A woman is missing in the North Woods, and Cork is in a race against time, weather, the FBI, and mobsters to find her first. I really appreciate how Krueger writes about the North Woods. The landscape is practically a character – so vibrant and alive and sometimes menacing.
MH
The Exchange by John Grisham
I was really disappointed in this follow-up to Grisham’s THE FIRM. Not only were there long descriptions of every room the main character visited, but he was always offered coffee and always thanked the peon who offered it to him. In addition, the sentence structure was short and choppy with frequent fragments. Very weak plot, especially compared to his earlier books.
Kimberley
Defending Britta Stein by Ronald H. Balson
This historical fiction recounts the brave and patriotic citizens of wartime Denmark. As Nazi Germans descend upon neutral Denmark, the Danish resistance never relents to fight them off and preserve the nation. The story begins in present day Chicago with the arrest of Britta, an elderly woman accused of spray painting and defacing the outside walls of a restaurant of Ole Henryks.
With her lawyer and the lawyer’s husband, the story of wartime Denmark and those who betrayed its citizens and aided the enemy is revealed. It is a page-turner.
Susan
Miracles from Heaven by Christy Wilson Beam
We enjoyed the book. We appreciated reading a positive and life-affirming book.
Julie
The Moonshiner’s Daughter by Donna Everhart
Set in Wilkes County, NC (the moonshine capital of the world) in the early 60s, THE MOONSHINER'S DAUGHTER is a captivating Southern historical fiction novel that tells a heart-wrenching coming-of-age story. As author Donna Everhart gives voice to her 16-year-old protagonist, this beautifully- written story transports the reader to another time and place evoking feelings of angst and compassion as she carries you along on this journey. This was my first novel by Everhart - and I want to take this opportunity to thank her for the complimentary autographed copy - it certainly won’t be my last!
Darlene
All You Have to Do Is Call by Kerri Maher
Just okay.
Peri
The House Is on Fire by Rachel Beanland
This story centers around a theater that caught fire in Richmond, Virginia. The time was the early 1800s when slavery was the law in the south. This is historical fiction and very well written. Descriptions of the theater and its aftermath made me fully visualize the theater. The characters in this story were well developed. I really felt the fear when the theater caught on fire and the attendees were trying to escape.
Karen
Code Name Sapphire by Pam Jenoff
Historical fiction World War II story of resistance fighters. Very fast-moving read!
MariElla
The Thorn Birds by Colleen McCullough
I loved it more than I did the first time I read it. Beautiful descriptions of Australia and life there in the early and middle 20th century. Great character studies - is love more important than God, money, power? Beautifully written, wonderful story - I highly recommend it.
Rosa
Bright Young Women by Jessica Knoll
I was hooked by this book from the first page and I could not put it down. Based on the serial killings of Ted Bundy, this tells the story of Pamela Schumacher, who is the only person who sees the murderer of her two sorority sisters, and Tina Cannon, whose best friend Ruth disappears years prior to the sorority murders. Told in alternating timelines, the story is riveting, with plenty of tension. Here the attention is on the women, not the serial killer, who is just called The Defendant. I had read the author's book LUCKIEST GIRL ALIVE, and I am so impressed by how her storytelling has improved since that earlier book.
Karen
There There by Tommy Orange
Powerful Native masterpiece.
Sally-Jo
Tom Lake by Ann Patchett
As always, Anne Patchett delivers another hit! A wonderful story of mother/daughter relationships and following one's dreams only to find out it wasn't what Lara wanted after all. Loved it.
Elizabeth
The Exchange by John Grisham
Loved the follow up to Mitch McDeere.
Maryanne
Lady Tan’s Circle of Women by Lisa See
Fascinating historical novel. As usual, Lisa See brings her characters to life while educating the reader.
Elaine
Wait One: A Novel of Vietnam by Tom Deits
To enlist or be drafted was the choice in the 1960s when the U.S. president and politicians got the U.S. military directly involved in decades long Vietnam conflicts. Tom Deits describes the details of a low ranking soldier with many other young people in a jungle battleground. His descriptions may give you a better understanding of what a veteran you may know experienced.
Jill
Tom Lake by Ann Patchett
This is a story within a story. The author weaves back and forth from Lara’s younger years on stage and screen, to her present life of living on a cherry farm in northern Michigan, during the pandemic with her husband and three adult daughters. The summer at Tom Lake is the heart of the story. Ann Patchett’s TOM LAKE is a beautifully told story of love, growing up, and families. It showcases her storytelling expertise. Being from Michigan, it wasn’t difficult to picture the beauty of the cherry farms in northern Michigan.
Eileen
The Armor of Light by Ken Follett
While I enjoyed this story, I didn't think it connected to the others in the series as much as I had hoped it would. There was also a lot of technical, and in my opinion unnecessary, explanations about the weaving process and machinery.
Katheen
The Cottage by Jo A. Heistand
THE COTTAGE by Jo A. Hiestand is another novel in the McLaren Mystery series. Michael McLaren is helping his lady friend Melanie clear her house after it had been sold. She wanted to live closer to Michael if their relationship was to continue. She wants to open up a B&B and be able to send her daughter to college. All is going well, Michael is asked by Melanie's neighbors to investigate the deaths of her parents. Even though Michael is no longer with the police force, his friend Jamie is so he enlists Jamie's help in helping Melanie pack up her house.
Sheree
Strange Sally Diamond by Liz Nugent
This book, while very dark, was very interesting and a fast read. I would think that some people would have a lot of trouble reading this.
Dorina
If You Tell by Gregg Olsen
This is a true story of three sisters and their life with a cruel, mean, bullying mother. I cannot find the right descriptive words for this person. It begins by telling you about the mother as a younger person and how she started being this way, how neighbors, family and the collective world failed to notice the abuse of these children. I’m not wanting to give away too much because I won’t be able to stop. So…wow! I read this in two sittings. What do you do when the person who should love you the most in the world is the person hurting you the most. This has to be the most difficult life experience for these girls. How they get through it and find their way out is so well written.
Linda
A Week in Winter by Maeve Binchy
This "rom-com" of a story takes place in a small town on the west coast of Ireland where Chicky Starr turns a rundown mansion into a retreat. Ten guests are booked for the week of the grand opening. How these personalities react to the setting and each other and how they change as a result makes for a fun read.
Dorina
The Guest List by Lucy Foley
A romantic weekend wedding on a small island. The story is told to us by different members of the wedding party, many of whom have reason to dislike or distrust each other. Some chapters will go back in time as you get to know the characters. Everyone is a suspect, as neither the victim or the killer are revealed until the end. The tension slowly builds as you get to know all of the characters. The ending is a complete surprise. Enjoy!
Alexandra
Happiness Falls by Angie Kim
I really wanted to like this book because I like the author's previous book and the story sounded intriguing. But the writing style made it very difficult to enjoy. It was written much like a text book with footnotes and some very complicated and technical things that took away from the plot.
Deby
The River We Remember by William Kent Krueger
As always, WKK knocks it out of the park with his story and character development. This is one that I'll be thinking about for a while.
Anne
The White Hare by Jane Johnson
Captivating, enthralling and fascinating novel. Excellent character portrayal and vivid descriptions of the locale. Unforgettable and intriguing.
Sharon
The Museum of Failures by Thrity Umrigar
Sometimes when we think we are protecting someone we love by keeping secrets, we end up hurting them in ways that could never be foreseen, and love is too often something that is distorted when we try too hard to protect someone--even ourselves.
Mamie
Valiant Women by Lena Andrews
Inspirational stories about women who have been basically ignored.
Sharon
Broadway Butterfly by Sara DiVello
Set in the "Roaring Twenties" of New York City, this fascinating historical novel brings the era to life as the author explores the death of the Broadway Butterfly -- a young girl brutally murdered and the resultant attempt to find her murderer by not only the police, but also by Julia Harpman, female crime reporter (really!) and later assistant editor on the city desk of the Daily News. Loved the strong women of the story, the historical accuracy and the vivid storytelling.
Connie
The Escape Room by Megan Goldin
This book is hard to put down. Four workers in an elevator set up as an escape room - but wait until you find out who set it up!!
Elizabeth
The English Teacher by Lily King
I like this author's writing and this early book by Lily King did not disappoint. It's the story of a New England private school English teacher and her 15-year-old son. At the beginning of the book, she accepts the marriage proposal of a widower with three children and then almost instantly regrets it. The story vacillates from her perspective to her son's. I grew frustrated with Vida but still wanted to continue reading. There are a lot of parallels driven between Vida and Tess of of the D'Ubervilles, which I have never read, but figured out eventually. Also to the Iranian hostage situation in 1979, when the book takes place.
Beverlee
Good Bad Girl by Alice Feeney
I love the way this author tells a story with just enough information to make you curious and tormented at the same time as you try to fit the pieces together. This book did not disappoint!!
Aida
The Midnight Library by Matt Haig
Great read. Makes you think of all the possibilities.
Sharon
The Woman in the Library by Sulari Gentill
This mystery takes place in Boston with an interesting cast of characters, one of which is a killer. It holds one’s interest as the reader tries to guess the identity of the killer.
Elizabeth
Still Life by Sarah Winman
This is a beautiful book about love and friendship. There is a strong sense of place as Florence is lovingly described.
Sean
The Andromeda Strain by Michael Crichton
Michael Crichton does hard sci-fi well but I felt this book lacked intrigue. The science was definitely there, but the drama seemed missing or forced. I liked how the book was written with the outcome already being discussed. I thought the author didn't do enough to make the scientists stand out though. Overall, a decent science fiction novel that holds up well considering when it was written, but the drama level was lacking.
Jonell
Lady Tan's Circle of Women by Lisa See
Fantastic book! Lisa See's writing makes you feel as if you are in the room with Lady Tan with all of her frustrations and triumphs. Be sure to check out Lisa See's website for photos and more information about the research and inspiration for this book.
Susan
Daisy Jones and the Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Story of a rock band in the 70s. How they rose to the top and all the personal problems they had along the way. First book I have ever read written in interview style.
Sonnie
Crooked House by Agatha Christie
Not all of our book group enjoy reading mysteries but we all enjoyed this one. During the time we were reading this novel we learned that a movie had been made of this story so most of us were able to watch it. Our enjoyment was taken to a new level as we compared the book with the movie. We especially liked the lead actor, but we all agreed that nothing can beat the printed word!
Patricia
The Running Grave by Robert Galbraith
A terrific mystery written about a cult existing in London. So enjoyed the interaction, again, as always between Strike and Robin. An epic undertaking of 939 pages, at the 500th page I could not put the book down!
Jeanne
The Ghost Illusion by Kat Martin
THE GHOST ILLUSION by Kat Martin is a gripping story from the first page to the very end as psychologist Eve St. Clair attempts to sort through reality and terrifying imaginings in an old Victorian home she inherited from her uncle. When Ransom King helps Eve and tries to protect and save Eve from real dangers that are around her, their mutual attraction is undeniable and he will stop at nothing to save the woman he loves. I don’t usually read this type of story, but once I started reading it, I got chills down my spine and had to finish it. The author did a great job in creating and crafting the characters who fit perfectly with this storyline. I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from the author through Kensington Books.
Jeanne
Hercule Pierot’s Silent Night by Sophie Hannah
HERCULE POIROT'S SILENT NIGHT is Book 5 in the new Hercule Poirot mystery series by Sophie Hannah. It is well written, entertaining, and the perfect mystery to read during the Christmas season. I think even the wonderful, indomitable Agatha Christie would be proud as Hercule is determined to solve the murder of a retired post office master. This has all the elements of a good mystery, including drama, suspense, danger and twists and turns at every angle as Hercule struggles to find the murderer one week before Christmas. I especially liked Hercule’s charming, delightful, quirky new friend, Inspector Catchpool. I received an uncorrected proof of this book and these opinions are my own.
Simonne
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid
The making of a Hollywood star and what it cost to get to the top, and the people she used and used her along the way.
Simonne
Switchboard Soldiers by Jennifer Chiaverini
Slow-moving but interesting book based on the overseas switchboard operators during WWI.
Linda
Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver
I am not usually one to like audiobooks but decided to start listening to a few. I wanted to see if I could go that route and get some from the library. I started with DEMON COPPERHEAD and boy was it fantastic. I have the book but wanted to listen to it. The narrator was perfect for this book and the story kept me pretty much in tears. What that boy went through was so horrible. Then it hit the opioid crises era and it hit me right in the heart. I lost two brothers to drugs and have another in jail. All due to pain killers leading to stronger drugs. DEMON COPPERHEAD may very well have ruined me for audio narrators. This book is beautifully written, albeit a sad story. Its ending was perfect. I will be listening to more by Kingsolver.
Tessa
Back of Beyond by C. J. Box
3.5 stars. This is the first book in a new series by C. J. Box. Cody Hoyt is an alcoholic and a former big-city cop who is barely hanging on to his job as an investigator with the Lewis and Clark County Sheriff’s Department. This is a fast-paced thriller with some twists and turns I didn’t see coming. Box moves back and forth from the perspective of Cody and his partner, Larry, to the perspective of the people on the “back of beyond” tour in Yellowstone National Park. I particularly liked the way Box wrote Gracie Sullivan; she’s a smart girl, a keen observer, and quick-thinking.
Teresa
The Spectacular by Fiona Davis
At first this book seemed too much like a Hallmark movie about a young woman who joins the Rockettes, despite family disapproval. Thank goodness it turned out to be so much more. Not only is it a romance, but it’s also a mystery, and one learns a bit about the Rockettes. A fun read.
Debbie
The Pale Horse by Agatha Christie
THE PALE HORSE by Agatha Christie features a new narrator, Mark Easterbrook, a historian working on the Moguls. Mark sees a fight between two girls and later learns that one of the girls has died. This leads to the death of a priest, Father Gorman, and a list of many individuals. The people on the list have all died supposedly of natural causes, but Mark and a police surgeon, Jim Corrigan believe that foul play hides among all these deaths. The Pale Horse, an old bar/inn, hovers in the background as a source of the deaths. The poison, thallium, jumps into the equation, as this poison causes loss of hair. Also, three older woman, believed to be witches, create seances and all manner of bewitching gems.
Linda
12 Months to Live by James Patterson and Mike Lupica
Jane Smith is a criminal defense attorney and is representing Rob Jacobson who is accused of killing three members of the Gates family. He says he did not do it but she’s unsure whether to believe him or not. Jane was hired to represent him and that is what she will do. Her associate Jimmy Cunniff is shot while investigating a previous case involving a whole family shot and killed, and he and Jane are wondering if Rob killed that family, too. Is someone following Jimmy in his investigation as every person he talks with is found dead? Rob is in jail, so who is killing people?
Linda
Eight Perfect Hours by Lia Louis
Stuck in a snowstorm for eight hours, Noelle and Sam talked about many things. She really likes him and is disappointed when he does not ask for her telephone number. She never thought she would see him again but weeks later she runs into him at the hospital. She gives him her number and scribbles it on a leaflet. As she leaves the hospital, she finds it crumbled up and tossed on a bench. They run into each other several times but it never seems to be the right time. Either he has someone or she has someone. Will they ever become a couple?
Linda
The Hollywood Jinx by Sariah Wilson
Gretchen Wagner talked her sister-in-law Jane Wagner into writing Hollywood actor Nick Haddon and inviting him to their small town of Patience, Ohio for the fall festival. Never thinking they would hear anything of it, both were surprised when they learn he will be there. This is Nick's chance to improve his bad boy image. He tells Jane how pretty she is and she thinks nothing about it but Nick was attracted to her when he first saw her. He can tell she likes him but won’t admit it. She’s been hurt before and Nick will only be here for a short time before he returns to Hollywood. She won’t let her heart be broken again! He is determined to get through to her and prove he's just a normal guy who has fallen in love with her.
Linda
Chase Me by Tessa Bailey
Roxy Cumberland was booted out of her apartment by her roommate and is forced to take a job delivering singing telegrams, but not just any telegram. She is dressed in a pink bunny outfit as she rings the doorbell of Louis McNally’s apartment. He comes to the door shirtless and wearing low slung jeans and she is momentarily speechless. She sings in a raspy voice and he is determined to see her face. She takes her mask off, kisses him, and takes off. He is determined to find her and to take her out and puts his plan into motion.
Linda
The Long Game by Elena Armas
The book started out slow and confusing. Adalyn Reyes was sent to the boonies of NC to help coach little girls after she embarrassed her father’s MLS team by knocking the bird’s head off the team mascot. Videos were posted and Adalyn is pictured as deranged. It takes several pages before the reader is told what caused Adalyn to flip out. She meets retired MLS star Cameron Caldani who is in the NC area for peace and quiet and doesn’t want anyone to know who he is. He retired after a crazed fan broke into his house and it threw him. I loved the first two books by Elena Armas but not this one.
Linda
Stinger by Mia Sheridan
Mia Sheridan's books are so great that you find yourself reading them over again. Grace Hamilton met Carson Stinger when she ran into him at a casino. They get stuck in the elevator and talk for several hours and get to know one another. They spend the weekend together with both thinking it is a one-time thing. She finishes up her law degree and he joins the Navy SEALs but they never forgot one another. Five years later, they meet again and realize they have not forgotten their one weekend together. What happens now?
Linda
Lion & Lamb by James Patterson and Duane Swierczynski
Cooper Lamb and Veena Lion are working for opposing sides of a murder investigation but both are trying to solve the murder. Their questions bring them to the attention of the Atlantic City mob and a hitman is sent but easily disposed of by Veena. Mickey Bernstein, homicide detective, has sent messages to the Police Commissioner and been approved as the investigator although he has conflicts of interest in the case. The victim is Archie Hughes, quarterback for the Eagles. He has been shot to death and left in his car. His wallet and Super Bowl ring have been stolen. His wife has been arrested for the murder but neither Lamb nor Lion think she is guilty. Who is?
Linda
North of Nowhere by Allison Brennan
Maggie McIntyre was planning on leaving her husband Boyd and taking her children Kristen and Ryan and running away with Tony Reed. She was shot and killed before she could leave and Kristen saw the whole thing. Kristen shot and killed two of the assassins, including one who had Tony on his knees. Tony and the children took off and hid out in Montana where Tony worked on a ranch and the children were known as his children and lived normal lives. But Boyd has been looking for them as well as his mother, the evil mind behind the criminal enterprise that is the family business. Boyd heads to Montana to retrieve his children not knowing his mother has her own plans.
Linda
The Second Life of Mirielle West by Amanda Skenandore
This book is based on our country's only leprosarium in Carville, LA, and about the leprosy patients' lives during the 1920s. It was our book club selection and we learned a lot about this disease.
louise
Mad Honey by Jodi Picoult and Jennifer Finney Boylan
I'm a big fan of Jodi and have read 10 others by her. This book contained a lot of twists and turns and also she wrote her characters really great.
Rhonda
The Search Party by Hannah Richell
I received an ARC of this novel and devoured it in one sitting. I really enjoyed this version of a locked room mystery. A well-crafted mystery with twists, turns and many secrets. The family dynamics with children hook me and I became emotionally involved in the story and the outcome. I look forward to reading other novels by Hannah Richell.
Carol
Home Sweet Anywhere by Lynne Martin
What an interesting read. Seniors sell their home. Travel fulltime. In their seventies!
Jane
The Five-Star Weekend by Elin Hilderbrand
I love Elin Hilderbrand's books which are always set in Nantucket. Who wouldn't want to be part of that crowd or there? Hollis is the main character and after her husband dies, she gets an idea from an article she read about bringing together five friends from previous eras in life for a get together. She chooses her four closest and decides to include a fan from her blog Hungry With Hollis. I knew there was a hidden “agenda” with Gigi and it came together quickly, even before Hollis invited her. Pretty ingenious if you ask me, though unfortunately catty, too. They all had their own quirks and sometimes secrets, but they all seemed to have a good time and got along.
I enjoyed Caroline also.
Mary
The Violin Conspiracy by Brendan Slocumb
Ray McMillian is a young, talented classical violinist. His upbringing limited his opportunities but not his talent. The support and mentorship from a judge at a high school talent competition who happens to be a music instructor at a local university lead to a full music scholarship and opportunities to play in worldwide competitions. Ray's grandmother gifts him an old fiddle that belonged to his great-grandfather. When his instrument is being repaired it is determined that the violin is a valuable Stradivarius. Drama ensues when the violin is stolen right before a major world music competition. The story is fast-paced and an enjoyable read.
Beth
The Family Remains by Lisa Jewell
THE FAMILY REMAINS is Lisa Jewell's sequel to her book THE FAMILY UPSTAIRS. I read THE FAMILY UPSTAIRS long enough ago that I forget much of it. That detracted from my enjoyment of THE FAMILY REMAINS, even though it is just as well written as Jewell's other novels. Although I dislike rereading novels, in this case it would have been better if I had reread THE FAMILY UPSTAIRS immediately before I read THE FAMILY REMAINS. So, if you haven't read either novel yet, I would suggest you read THE FAMILY UPSTAIRS first, then read THE FAMILY REMAINS soon after. This would be ideal.
Kathleen
Someone Else's Shoes by Jojo Moyes
So funny and intriguing.
Rose
The Collector by Fiona Cummins
Book 2 of the Collector series. Det. Sgt. Etta Fitzroy is still chasing Brian Howley who is The Bone Collector. He is fascinated with people who have body deformities. After kidnapping Clara and Jakey in Book 1, Jakey has been rescued, but Howley escaped. Now Etta is chasing him again, knowing he must be near. Another person is captured, and a young boy, Saul, is lured in by Mr. Silver, the alias the collector is using. Saul is escaping a bad home situation and is captivated by Mr. Silver's paternal care for him. Yet, he is hesitant of forming a bond with this man. He agrees to help bring Jakey to Mr. Silver, but what do they have planned. Creepy story!
Rose
Bright Young Women by Jessica Knoll
Bright Young Women follow two women as they try to make sure that the defendant is tried and convicted for the crime of murdering several young women. Pamela was the president of the sorority house at Florida State when a man entered the house, killed two, and seriously injured two others. Pamela saw the man, but originally mistook him for someone else. Years later, she meets Tina, who lost Ruth, her partner, to murder by the hands of this same man. They are determined that he doesn't go free this time. It is amazing to read of the mistakes made by the police and prison guards, as well as others. A sad story but one where females work together to seek justice.
Rose
The Hating Game by Sally Thorne
Colleagues both vying for the same position, Lucy and Joshua hate each other. They constantly bash each other while they sit across from each other. However, as we all now, hate is very close to love, and as they compete, they can't deny the attraction between them. The tension is palpable and they can't deny it. Eventually, they act upon the attraction and realize they don't hate, but love each other. Cute romance.
Laurie
Being Henry by Henry Winkler
I listened to the audio, narrated by Henry Winkler, and it was an entertaining, chatty narration. I’m not sure I came away totally liking him, but he seemed to be honest throughout. I especially enjoyed hearing from his wife periodically throughout the narration.
Rose
The Wives by Tarryn Fisher
You are instantly pulled into the story of Thursday, the wife that Seth visits on Thursday nights. She is her husband's second wife, after he divorced his first wife, "Tuesday". He has a third wife, "Monday" that is pregrant. They are polygamists, but it is their secret. As the story continues, Thursday decides to find out more about the other wives and begins to infiltrate their lives. Be prepared to become lost in this story with fast changing stories. You will wonder what is true and what is not. The ending is a shocker!
Chris
Scars and Stars by Jesse Thistle
Well done, very emotional.
Karen
The Coworker by Freida McFadden
Can’t go wrong with Freida. Loved every page!
Tessa
Before the Ever After by Jacqueline Woodson
This novel is verse is suitable for middle-school-aged children but deals with a serious issue – brain injury resulting from multiple concussions while participating in contact sports. I am in awe at how much information Woodson can convey in so few words. The poetry format allows the author to get straight to the emotion of the situation. But make no mistake, she paints some vivid pictures and fully-realized characters.
Rose
Gone Tonight by Sarah Pekkanen
Ruth Sterling will do anything to protect her daughter, Catherine. She has invented an entire life to protect Catherine from the truth about Catherine's father, James. But, Catherine is curious about her mother and digs until she finds her biological father. This sets up a dangerous showdown between James, Ruth, and Catherine. When James and Ruth (Ava) were teens, and in love, James needed to protect Ava, and in doing so, committed a crime. He never knew about their daughter, Catherine. Ava left town, changed her name, and cut off communications with her family. Now years later, Catherine stirs it all up. Mother and daughter hide secrets from each other in this psychological thriller.
Marge
The Train to Crystal City by Jan Jarboe Russell
This book is accounts of families that were interned in Crystal City, Texas during World War II and equally shocking and not surprising. This books shows how little we have learned from the past. We are facing very similar issues now. We have not learned how to trust or treat others that we don’t understand any better now. When will we learn how to treat others with caring and respect.
Jane
Rumors and Promises by Kathleen Rouser
Sophie Biddle is on the run with her child. She has taken a job in Stone Creek, Michigan. She loves her employer and those she serves. No one knows her secrets but one woman is determined to be judged and jury and ruin her life. Reverend McCormick has secrets from his previous church. Both find it hard forgiving themselves and others. Sofie and Ian McCormick become friends. As you read, you can relate to things even though your situation may be different. There is false judgement by people of church, emotional hurt, trying to find acceptance in community and trying to fit in. I highly recommend this book.
Francisca
When Two Feathers Fell From the Sky by Margaret Verble
1920s Tennessee is the setting for this novel. What interesting characters! Verble weaves through elements of history not often covered in school from ancient bison tracks, to the forced expulsion of the Cherokee (Trail of Tears) to Jim Crow. She deftly incorporates magical realism, especially by using the ghost of Little Elk, a long-deceased warrior who longs to communicate with Two Feathers. I was captivated by this unique story.
Teresa
The Devil Wears Prada by Lauren Weisberger
Exhausting. Just reading what Andrea was going through, with the job a million girls would kill for, was exhausting. Do highly successful, wealthy people really act like Miranda Priestly? Do their assistants act like such blatant sycophants? I’d love to know how real this story is.
sherry
The Marriage Box by Corie Adjmi
Gave me good incite to the Syrian Jewish life in America. I learned there really is a Marriage Box where girls unattached are standing in a box and unattached men choose a woman. Seems primitive. Interesting book.
Michelle
The Wishing Game by Meg Shaffer
3.5 stars. Very unique premise. Almost felt like a YA novel. It had a bit of a Willy Wonka feel to it with a contemporary feel. Nice to escape into something lighter.
Joan
Tom Lake by Ann Patchett
I loved this story, set during the pandemic. Three daughters of a former acting couple dig for stories about their mother’s past relationship with a movie star. The writing is Ann Patchett at her best - crisp, emotional. She will draw you into the past and present, and you’ll even learn about cherry farming! A beautiful story!
Jeanne
Murder on Mistletoe Lane by Clara McKenna
MURDER ON MISTLETOE LANE by Clara McKenna is an easy to read, delightful addition to the Stella and Lyndy mystery series. It has all the elements of a good mystery including drama, suspense, danger, twists and turns and, in spite of a murder, the storyline contains the joy and magic of Christmas. The author has done a great job in creating and crafting the characters who fit perfectly with the storyline. I received a copy of this book from the author and these opinions are strictly my own.
Michelle
Kasher in the Rye by Moshe Kasher
Some pretty funny moments (as well as crass) but I was hoping he’d dig deeper into how he turned his life around. I felt like I blinked and he was sober without going into much detail on how he did it, what that experience was like. And then he didn’t write about how he became a standup comedian.
Sally-Jo
Tom Lake by Anne Patchett
I loved this book. I enjoyed it so much I read it again. It's our book club's monthly pick. Interesting story of mothers and daughters, expectations in relationships, and dreams for lifelong happiness. Be careful what you wish for.
Beth
Daughters of Shandong by Eve J. Chung
A heart-wrenching family saga of a mother and her daughters fleeing China during the communist takeover. A sad but beautiful story that will have you turning every page!
Sharon
Pax by Sara Pennypacker
I was drawn to this book because of Pax, he was a pet fox and dearly loved by Peter. They were separated by war for a time. Peter was determined to find Pax, even trying to travel miles on foot.
After Peter was healed from his broken ankle, he was able to go back towards home and find Pax.
Cathy
The Ruin by Dervla McTiernan
Exciting police procedural set in Ireland, that keeps you guessing!
Jayme
Queen of Thieves by Beezy Marsh
This book had so much potential because the history is very interesting, but the writing and constant colloquialism was very distracting and cringe-worthy.
Jayme
The Cherry Robbers by Sarai Walker
This book started off really well with a slow, haunted, creepy build to the deaths of the first sister and second sister, but by the time sisters four and five die the book started to lose some of its flare. I think I know how it ended and the message, but maybe not. It was a great book to read during spooky October though.
Wanda
The Manor House by Gilly MacMillan
This is the first time I've read a book by this author, and I can honestly say I thoroughly enjoyed this!! I could not put down this book!! What an incredible storyline, a turn of events kept me on the edge of my seat. Thank you Bookaccino for informing me of this incredible author! I will read more of her work!! A must-read thriller!!
Tracy
Just Like Home by Sarah Gailey
Creepy, atmospheric, and creative. This was a grood book to read for the spooky season. A father that loves his daughter, a daughter that adores her father, and a mother who hides secrets. The author did a good job of creating great atmosphere, and I enjoyed the storyline. The one thing I thought the author could’ve done better was to perhaps delve a little deeper into a psychotic mind so the reader could feel what each character felt. I found it a little disconnected and some of the storyline to be too unbelievable. That being said, I did feel the book deserves a four star for the storyline and creepiness factor. There was also some suspense but I would’ve liked to have seen more.
Barbara
The Attic on Queen Street by Karen White
A new book in the Tradd Street series about haunted old family mansions in Charleston, SC and Melanie Trenholm, a local realtor, who can see and hear the ghosts. Melanie has lived in, and currently lives in, one of the haunted mansions. She does research on the family's past history and investigates to determine which family ghost is active and why. I enjoyed this book but it was a little long.
Anne Marie
The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman
Warm and witty - join the gang of four as they pool their knowledge and abilities to solve a couple of murders. Senior citizens rule! Life begins at 70 in this book. Join the fun and try to solve the mystery - it's harder than you think.
LisaMarie
The Caretaker by Ron Rash
It pulled on your heart strings. The things people do to their children. Highly recommend.
PJ
The Silence in Her Eyes by Armando Lucas Correa
Leah has been living with a condition that causes motion blindness where she can see but can't see motion, and the only way she can see the motion is by rapidly blinking. She'd been living like this since she was injured as a child. Her condition enhances her other senses including hearing and smell. She senses anxiety in other people but can she really help them get past their problems? Is everything what it seems to be? This is an engrossing roller-coaster of a ride through Leah's daily challenges with a blockbuster of an ending. As I read the book, I saw what Leah saw and pictured what she saw in New York City. I found myself 'counting' steps, standing at intersections and feeling the city. I received an ARC. I highly recommend.
Susan
Night Watch by Jayne Anne Phillips
Confusing, character development lacking.
Janet
West Heart Kill by Dann McDorman
A playful, inventive format mystery that pulls the reader into the investigation.
Linda
The Once and Future Witches by Alix E. Harrow
This "Halloweenish" story is about three rebellious sisters who are determined to bring back witchcraft in 1893 New Salem. Their motivation is to help suffragists win the vote and to empower women treated badly by powerful men. You go, girls! I enjoyed the magical, atmospheric writing.
Rosemary
The Island of Missing Trees by Elif Shafak
This tells the story of two teenagers in love on Cyprus, one is Greek the other a Turk. It explains the history of the island, the conflicts that keep them apart, and their final reunion. It also explores how their teenage daughter grows up in England after they move there. The chapters are interspersed with the thoughts a fig tree that grows in their garden, which is a result of the father having smuggled a clipping from a tree that grew near his home in Cyprus. It's a It's also a wonderful read!story of love, hate politics, turmoil and hope.
Jean
Uncommon Type by Tom Hanks
Nice book of short stories with a focus on the author's infatuation with typewriters. Some characters appear in several stories.
Karen
West With Giraffes by Lynda Rutledge
As an animal lover, this was a treasure to read. Two giraffes are cared for and driven across the U.S. by Old Man and a teenage-boy who is coming of age and escaping his past. It is based on a true story of the challenges faced by the team of caretakers transporting Boy and Girl past vicious circus owners, flash floods, car problems, spectators, young love, special police, segregated South, unexpected kindness from a poor Black family and more.
Kelley
Goering's Man in Paris: The Story of a Nazi Art Plunderer and His World by Jonathan Petropoulos
Fascinating topic but reads like a research paper. Author obviously did an extraordinary amount of research but it was a difficult read.
Maureen
The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides
A definite roller coaster ride.
Lucy
The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store by James McBride
Interesting story, especially one character, Dodo, but I got bogged down with all the other characters (way too many for me to follow and get involved with). James McBride's interviews about the book were more interesting.
Elizabeth
The Luminaries by Eleanor Catton
This book was extraordinary - it's a cross between a mystery and a old fashioned Victorian novel. I've never read anything quite like it. It takes place in 19th Century New Zealand during its gold rush. New Zealand is a country that fascinates me and of which I know very little of its history. (It had a gold rush?) The characters are well drawn. There are a lot of them and it's sometimes hard to keep track of them all, but well worth the effort. I both listened and read the book and found great pleasure in both ways of digesting the story. It really put me in the time and place, and I got lost in the world that Catton created. It's a long book but it didn't feel long. I'm looking forward to reading this author's current book, BIRNAM WOOD.
Elizabeth
The Exchange by John Grisham
Loved reading the future of Mitch McDeere.
Linda
The Second Life of Mirielle West by Amanda Skenandore
Based on the only leprosarium in this country (in Louisiana), a story about the leprosy patients during the 1920s, it follows a young mother who is diagnosed with leprosy and is sent to Louisiana for treatment. It led to an outstanding book discussion.
Laura
Mad Honey by Jodi Picoult and Jennifer Finney Boylan
Late to the party on this one, but a very good read. I knew it was the story of a girl who was murdered and her boyfriend was the suspect, but did not realize there was quite a plot twist. I think not knowing the plot twist made the book even more enjoyable. Also, the book was taught me some things that I did not know. Highly recommend.
Cathy
A Most Agreeable Murder by Julia Seales
This book has a regency-era, cozy mystery feel to it. I'm not sure that is a genre, but whatever it is, it was totally entertaining. Also, there is fantasy and humor. What more could you want from a story that takes place on a dark and stormy night!
Anne
The White Hare by Jane Johnson
Captivating and enthralling historical which is memorable and unforgettable.
Patty
A Christmas Vanishing by Anne Perry
A wonderful book. A great fast-paced story.
Susan
Strange Sally Diamond by Liz Nugent
A really refreshing novel, original in voice and plotting.
Rose
Bright Lights, Big Christmas by Mary Kay Andrews
Kerry Tolliver's family owns a Christmas tree farm in NC, and travels to NYC each year to sell the trees. This year, since her father is ill, Kerry has to make the trip and live in their dilapidated trailer with her grumpy brother, Murphy. Since their parents were divorced, the siblings lived apart growing up, and now they have to share a trailer. Kerry quickly makes friends with many of the neighbors, especially Patrick, a divorced dad, and his son, Austin. Austin, Kerry, and Heinz (an elderly neighbor) write a story together. Kerry dreams of being an artist, but is afraid of failure. She learns a valuable lesson about trying and not wasting opportunities. Cute story.
Rose
These Silent Woods by Kimi Cunningham Grant
Living in a remote cabin in Appalachia, Cooper and his daughter, Finch, stay off the grid. When their friend, Jake, who provides them with food and supplies doesn't arrive one year, they know they need to make some changes. A neighbor, Scotland, starts coming around. Cooper is very wary of him, as Cooper is hiding from the past that caused Finch and Cooper to disappear into the woods. When a stranger appears in their woods, Cooper knows that they are in danger. This is a beautifully-written story of a father's love, and the love of those who are willing to help you. The selfless deed near the end of the story is so beautiful. I recommend this book and can't wait to read the author's backlist.
Sandy
She's Gone by David Bell
Love this author!! Stayed up way past my bedtime to finish it.
Rose
The Family Next Door by Fiona Cummins
This was a suspenseful novel about people who keep turning up dead, the only signs of trauma are their eyes cut out and replaced with glass eyes. Garrick and Olivia Lockwood are in need of a change, and can't afford much, so they purchase a home on the edge of the woods where the bodies were found. Sadly, this house is too close to the danger, and Olivia changes everything one night when she falls in the woods. Insp. Wildeve's husband, Adam Stanton, is a victim of the killer, and Wild is desperate for answers. As she investigates the case against the wishes of her superiors, she stumbles onto some sinister secrets. The ending may surprise you. I would have rated it higher, but the storyline was a bit confusing for me.
Sandy
A Life Without Water by Marci Bolden
Carol Denman divorced her husband over 29 years ago and never looked back. But on the day before their daughter's 30th birthday, John barges back into Carol's life with a request that threatens the fragile stability she has built. This book was so good that I have ordered the next two in the series from the library. I will let you know if they are as good as the first one.
Kathleen
Tom Lake by Ann Patchett
This book reads like a confession or a personal journal - you can really feel the emotion in each character's dialogue.
Janet
The Good Sister by Wendy Corsi Staub
There were some twists I didn't see coming.
Susan
Veil of Doubt by Sharon Virts
This novel takes place in a small town in Virginia after the end of the Civil War. It's a very well written and well researched novel based on the trial of Emily Lloyd who was charged with poisoning her three-year-old daughter and also implicated in the deaths of her husband and her other three children. The people of the town were sure that she was guilty and were surprised when Powell Harrison, a soft-spoken, brilliant attorney who recently returned to his Virginia hometown, is irresistibly drawn to the case. This book is part true-crime thriller, part medical and legal procedural.
Liz
A Touch of Stardust by Kate Alcott
This book centers on the life of Julie Crawford, who left her home in Indiana to “make it big” in LA as a screenwriter. It also centers around her lover, Andy, who has a vested interest in the making of the movie "Gone With The Wind". I don’t see the connection between the two. Throw in the looming war and for me this story was just a mess. I will admit to having not read or seen the movie "Gone With The Wind", so maybe that has affected my review. I found the story pointless.
Sean
Big Bad Wolf by James Patterson
Patterson excels in writing Alex Cross, who here is now an FBI Agent dealing with a heinous group of human traffickers and their insidious head, The Wolf. I flew through, as one does with his writing style, but I liked it. Alex dealing with the FBI's bureaucracy was handled well and his home life's possible upheaval was intriguing. The main antagonist, The Wolf, was too mustache-twirling and vague to be believable. I thought there were some really amazing chances to make this villain great but it didn't come together. I also didn't love the ending. Overall, a decent book that was entertaining but could have been so much better.
sherry
Just the Nicest Couple by Mary Kubica
I really liked the suspense in this book.
Tessa
The Little Princesses by Marion Crawford
The subtitle is all the synopsis anyone needs: The Story of the Queen’s Childhood by Her Nanny, Marion Crawford. I really enjoyed the glimpse into a world I will never experience. It covers the sixteen years Crawford was in service to the family, up to the birth of Charles. By today’s standards it is hardly scandalous, but it was a sensation when it was published. The royal family banished Crawford and never spoke to her again.
Agnes
The Spy Coast by Tess Gerritsen
A former spy thinks she has retired to a quiet life as a chicken farmer in a small Maine town. That is until her past catches up with her when a former colleague goes missing. Maggie Bird and some of her neighbors join forces to resolve this old case. The rest of the town thinks they’re just retirees, but they’re really all former CIA operatives only too happy to dust off their old skills. This will frustrate the local police chief investigating the crimes until she figures out who they really are. This thriller is a riveting tale with interesting characters that hook you from the start. I highly recommend it.
Dawn
Happiness Falls by Angie Kim
This one is hard to explain, but I really enjoyed it! It starts out with a mystery, but takes so many turns that I ended up not thinking about the mystery as much as I did the other issues introduced! Very well written, I learned a lot. I had not encountered Angelman syndrome before, nor have I had to deal with a lot of the family drama involved, but the story drew me in and really made me think! I also liked that I could both empathize AND sympathize with the narrator, feeling like I could really see her way of thinking, especially with the addition of her footnotes, which added a lot of details to enhance the overall action and plot.
Rose
There There by Tommy Orange
I have wanted to read this for a long time, so I was happy that Maryland chose it as the One Maryland One Book, and that my library book club chose it for the selection in November! The book follows multiple characters who are related in some way over the course of a few days. The culminating event is a powwow to be held in Oakland, CA. The various Native Americans tell a bit of their own history, and some history of the U.S. and their tribes, while highlighting some of the woes that the tribes face. You know what is going to happen, but you are just not prepared for the amount of devastation you will experience when you read this book. Heartbreaking.
Donna
Only the Beautiful by Susan Meissner
This book really picks up when you meet the second main character "Helen". Although the Rosie part is good, had this novel started and alternated with Helen I would have given it 5 stars. That being said, hang in there as it is well worth the wait until the Helen part. You at first think this is a novel dealing with a underage girl getting pregnant and the subsequent commitment of her to a state hospital; it turns into much more as it delves into eugenics and involuntary sterilization in the U.S. and the killing of German and Austrian children during the war. It ties together and does have a good ending. Just when you think you have read all the horrors of Hitler there is more.
Shannon
The One Hundred Years of Lenni and Margot by Marianne Cronin
This may be the best book I've read so far in 2023. It was one of the selections for my monthly book club, and this story will stay with me for a long time. I laughed and cried and grew to love all of the characters. I heard it is being optioned to be made into a feature film and I hope that's true.
Deby
The Sweetness of Water by Nathan Harris
Took a while to get into reading it, but I'm glad I stuck with it. I liked hearing more about what things were like following the end of the Civil War. I can't imagine what it would have been like to be living through those tumultuous times.
Connie
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
Protagonist's daughter keeps giving her lunch away at school to win friends. This leads to a confrontation with one of the friends' father who ends up giving the protagonist a job doing a cooking show on TV. But soon she is advising women how to stand up for themselves.
Rose
Into the Beautiful North by Luis Alberto Urrea
I found this book to be quite outlandish. A young woman, Nayeli, 19, notices that her small town in Mexico has no men, so she decides to head to the U.S. to bring back seven men to help populate her town. Her aunt Irma, newly elected mayor of the town, encourages her to go. Nayeli also plans to go to IL to find her father who left years earlier. Nayeli sets off with a small group and heads north to San Diego. They encounter a cast of characters on the way, as well as the border patrol. Nayeli grows up on this trip, and realizes that the boy she thought she loved, as well as her father, are not the men she expected them to be.
Debbie
The Museum of Failures by Thrity Umrigar
THE MUSEUM OF FAILURES provokes the reader to examine relationships among family and friends and to investigate past ideas. The main character, Remy Wadia, returns to India to adopt a baby, but finds that his mother needs his assistance. The quick trip to India from Ohio accelerates into a lengthy journey that uncovers a terrible secret in Remy’s family. Along this path of discovery, Remy learns his mother’s strength and love. So many lost and hidden memories for Remy, his father’s “golden boy”. This raises the question,"Do we live for our parents or our own hopes?" So many people enter Remy’s path to discovery: Jango, Monaz, and Dina. Each character prompts Remy on his road of redemption with his father Cyrus and his mother Shirin.
Rocky
Spare by Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex
I did not have high expectations of this book and was surprised to find out how interesting it is. It is very rich in details of Prince Harry's life, especially in regard to his mother, dealing with the paparazzi, and his current married life. There are lots of stories about wonderful times with Princess Diana, QEII, and Prince Charles. There are also many stories about the difficulties of being in the public eye and being a royal. The biggest "negative" about the book is that the last 100 or so pages are pretty much a rant about much of the above (2 stars). The first 800 pages alone make it a worthwhile read (4 stars).
Leslie
Absolution by Alice McDermott
Enjoyed this book about the women who accompany their husbands on medical or "diplomatic" tours in Vietnam. I have not really ever read anything exploring the lives of these women during this fraught time.
Rose
Dear Committee Members by Julie Schumacher
An epistolary novel about a disgruntled faculty member, Jason/Jay Fitger, who is writing an endless stream of Letters of Recommendation for students and faculty. It is funny in some cases, and in others, it is a venting of frustrations - with the faculty, with the office space, with people not responding, with former flames. It is a quick read. Just okay in my opinion.
Linda
The Rom Com by Devon Daniels
Cassidy Sutton works for Siren, a magazine catering to women. Jack Bradford is a co-founder of Brawler, a magazine catering to men. There have always been snide comments made by one to the other but Cassidy has an idea for a story. Her gran had shown her a paper titled "125 Tips to Hook a Husband" that was written in the 1950s. She decided she would use these tips to reel in Jack and then let him down. At their first date, she tells him she never kisses on the first date. He is good-natured about it and goes along. She follows other tips that he thinks are odd but he's a good sport. She realizes she's fallen in love with him and she can't write the story. Then he finds out about the story and feels he's been betrayed. How can she fix it?
Linda
Someone Just Like You by Meredith Schoor
Molly Blum and Jude Stark grew up as neighbors and played together until she embarrassed him in front of her friends at age six. Since then, it's been one prank after another as each one tries to outdo the other. Now grown, they have been tasked with finding the perfect location for both sets of parents' wedding celebrations. At the party, everyone commented on how Molly's date looks like Jude and his date looks like Molly. They realize the comments are correct. They have been dating each other's clones. Molly and Jude really stopped and looked at each other. Their animosity had turned into friendship and was about to change into something stronger.
Linda
The Book Club Hotel by Sarah Morgan
Hattie and Brent Coleman restored the old Maple Sugar Inn but shortly after it opened, Brent was killed in a freak accident. In looking over the photos of the inn, Erica thought that would be a great place for the book club to meet. She calls her friends Claudia and Anna, who are all for it. Erica has a secret reason for going to the inn and she has said nothing about it to her friends. None of them know it when they drive up to the beautiful inn but their stay is about to change all of their lives.
Linda
Grayson’s Vow by Mia Sheridan
A great romance by Mia Sheridan! Kira Dallaire and Grayson Hawthorne had miserable childhoods. Kira's father never showed her any love but used her for his own political ambitions. Grayson was the result of a one-night stand that ended his mother's dancing career and she finally dumped him at his father's house. Neither his father nor his stepmother gave him any sort of love. Kira needed a place to stay and Grayson needed money to pump up the failing vineyard he inherited. Kira was due to inherit money from her grandmother but needed to be married in order to do so and she made a proposal to Grayson that would solve both problems.
Linda
Love, Holly by Emily Stone
Holly first met Jack when she ran into him at a coffee shop and caused him to drop his coffee. He wrote his number on her coffee cup and said to call him. Afterwards she was involved in an automobile accident and the cup was lost. Three years later, they see each other again. Jack is stunned because he has thought about her every day wondering where she was and why she hasn't called. She is looking for a Jack Tooley not knowing that he is the man she met and has often thought about. She has befriended a woman she met at Christmas who had not heard from her grandson and Holly was going to try and get them together. The missing grandson is Jack. This is a beautiful, heartwarming book.
Sandy
Miracle Creek by Angie Kim
Very good! Mother of son who was killed in a fire is on trial. Did she do it or was it someone else?
Rose
The Lost Ticket by Freya Sampson
I loved this sweet story about a man, Frank, who is searching for a woman he met 60 years earlier on the 88 bus. He lost the ticket where she wrote her number, so he spends his days looking for her on the bus to thank her for changing the direction of his life. When a young woman, Libby, gets on the bus, Frank mistakes her for the woman he met 60 years earlier because of her ginger hair. She explains that she isn't the woman, but after hearing his story decides to make it her mission to find the woman. Another bus passenger, Dylan, dressed in punk attire, also helps. This is such a wonderful story of kindness and friendship. So endearing.
Rose
The Beekeeper of Aleppo by Christy Lefteri
This book highlights the struggle and the journey that refugees take to escape war and brutality in their homeland. Nuri and his cousin Mustafa are beekeepers in Aleppo. One day, their apiaries are destroyed and Mustafa and his family head to England. He begs Nuri and Afra to join them. Afra doesn't want to leave because their son, Sami, is buried in Aleppo. Afra became blind after this happened. Finally, Nuri convinces her to leave but their journey is long and dangerous. Along the way, Nuri hallucinates about a boy named Mohammed. Nuri agrees to work for smugglers to help them get out of Athens. The book is heartbreaking. Hopefully, it will open people's eyes to the struggle these refugees face.
Becky
Daughters of Shandong by Eve J. Chung
“Girls are nothing more than wives for other people’s sons.” And so begins the story of Hai, her mother and her sisters. When the communist revolution comes to their area, the girls and their mom are left behind by their wealthy landowning family with only a vague promise to return for them. Enemies of the communists because of the family’s wealth and importance, the girls and their mother are evicted with no money or food as enemies of the people. Hai, the eldest daughter not yet a teen, narrates this compelling, barely fictionalized account of the journey by foot through China toward Taiwan. The girls come alive on the pages as their harrowing tale is told.
Francisca
The Tea Girl of Hummingbird Lane by Lisa See
This work of historical fiction focuses on the indigenous Akha people who make their living harvesting tea in the mountains near the borders with Laos and Myanmar. Li-yan is a young girl who follows her family tradition, but dreams of more. Lisa See has crafted a marvelous story of perseverance, cultural difference, and the enduring bonds of the mother-daughter relationship.
Stephanie
Travis by Mia Sheridan
Read immediately after finishing ARCHER'S VOICE, which left me wanting more. I did not enjoy. No plot, no twists, and a very slow read. I was disappointed.
Beth
Girl, Forgotten by Karin Slaughter
This is a continuation of Andrea's story from PIECES OF HER. She's more mature now and a US Marshal in a small town outside Baltimore. She and her partner are assigned to "babysit" a judge there who has received death threats. Also, this is the town where Andrea's father, the psychopath in PIECES OF HER, grew up. Although she and her mother now feel safe knowing that he is in prison, Andrea wants to be sure he stays there. The problem with this book is its unrealistic descriptions of life for a pregnant and unmarried teenager in the 1980s.
