This contest period's winners were Beth N., Cynthia J. and Susan C., who each received a copy of ANNA O by Matthew Blake and THE FURY by Alex Michaelides.
Suzanne
Right Behind You by Lisa Gardner
Quincy and Rainie have decided to adopt their foster daughter Sharlah. Rainie and Quincy know she is not easy to read after watching her mother and father die. She was very young and her brother was the one that took care of her and protected her. Now Quincy is asked to help the sheriff find the murderer of four people and the suspect is seventeen year old Telly, Sharlahs brother.
Darlene
The Quiet Tenant by Clemence Michallon
Excellent read!
Lynn
Holly by Stephen King
Holly Gibney is a private investigator in a small college town. She gets a request from a woman to locate her daughter who has gone missing. Sounds like just another detective story, right? Ah, but this is Stephen King. Of course there’s a twist. King’s writing is so deft and his dialog is so true. Holly is quirky and a bit rigid, but compelling. I hadn’t read any King books for years because they were too scary. I’ve missed him and I loved HOLLY!
Nancy
Educated by Tara Westover
This is a memoir about a young girl who, with no education as a child, goes on to get a PhD. She was raised by a father who did not believe in public schools. They were a ploy of the government to get them. Her childhood was very sad to read about. She always wanted more. To achieve this, she had to separate herself from her family.
Kimberly
Mercury by Amy Jo Burns
This book was absolutely phenomenal. I was gifted a copy and I am so grateful because I never would have picked it up otherwise. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys family-centered, contemporary fiction that is beautifully written. It is a novel involving a family and its secrets, flawed individuals, and love. It shows us how a family can break us apart and also, ultimately, put us back together again. I finished this book two days ago and am still thinking about it. I can’t wait to read more from this author.
Teresa
Democracy Awakening by Heather Cox Richardson
Richardson is an extremely popular writer, an historian, and a professor. She connects everything that’s going on in our nation today to our past in a way that is both engaging and enlightening. On the fence about your vote in the presidential election? Read this. You’ll climb down from that fence in a hurry.
Donna
All the Little Truths by Debra Webb
Finley is a legal investigator working for the top criminal defense lawyer in Nashville. A known criminal is a client. The police are opening a 13-year-old cold case the client is thought to have been the murderer. Finley is assigned to gather as much information as she can on this client. She is impartial to his guilt or innocence and seeks to find the truth. As she investigates, she realizes that she is getting partial information, but people are holding back on telling the whole truth. Finley is determined to solve the case and find the murderer. Her research puts her life in danger.
Donna
Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver
I’ve never read DAVID COPPERFIELD and understand that this novel was inspired by this classic. Demon was born to an alcoholic teenage mother in the Appalachian mountains of Virginia. Demon’s mother marries an addict and becomes addicted to drugs. She signs papers turning Demon over to child services. This novel is a lengthy description of Demon’s tortured life. He has low self esteem and minimal chance of escaping a life of drugs in the heart of the pill mills.
Donna
Day by Michael Cunningham
April 5, 2019, 2020 and 2021 and the country is shut down because of the Covid epidemic. Isabel, her husband, 5-year-old daughter, teenage son and her twin brother share an apartment in NYC. Her marriage is fading away and her brother is in love with her husband. Covid is testing everyone by causing them to reflect on their lives, experience regrets and make life altering changes. Some changes evolve and others needed to be made. People change…lives change…beliefs change. This is an eye-opening and interesting novel.
Donna
An Innocent Child by Roberta Kagan
I’m glad I read Book 1 of this series, though this book could stand alone. Mattie, Trudy and Margot are raised as sisters. Margot is not aware that she is Jewish and isn’t actually a member of the Schroeder family. Berlin, 1938: Margot is married to Max and they have a son, Erik, that has health problems. Her best friend, Ben, since childhood is a Jew and was training to be a doctor and is in love with Margot. Trudy is married to, Rudy, a German officer and is in love with Max. She vain and loves her life of luxury and partying as the wife of a prominent officer. Trudy hates Margot and is determined that Max will be hers even if she has to expose Margot as a Jew. Berlin, 1940: Rudy and Trudy commit the ultimate betrayal.
Donna
Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret by Judy Blume
Margaret and her parents have just moved from New York City to New Jersey. She’s 11 years old and concerned about fitting in. Margaret, though she isn’t religious, prays to God about everything. She becomes friends with three girls who are in her class at school and they form a club. The most important item with the group is the desire to start their period and who will be first. This story covers a preteen maturing as a young girl, developing relationships and family drama.
Donna
The Heart of It All by Christian Kiefer
A small town just north of mid-Ohio is declining. This novel is told through different voices and each has their own story of their struggles physically, mentally and racial prejudices, yet they are community. The characters are not perfect and are trying for a better life in spite of their problems.
This book causes you to think and evaluate your own life.
Cynthia
Holly by Stephen King
Silly serial killer suspense novel.
Alice
The Maid by Nita Prose
My book club will discuss it this month. I am anxious to read THE MYSTERY GUEST. I loved all the characters.
Debbie
Our Missing Hearts by Celeste Ng
First, I do not like fantasy and this book, OUR MISSING HEARTS, presents a bleak picture of the future. The book reminds me of George Orwell’s 1984 and ANIMAL FARM. The story centers on Noah nicknamed Bird and his quest to be reunited with his mother, Margaret Mui, a poet and freedom fighter. PACT (Preserving American Culture and Traditions) controls all aspects of life, like Big Brother watching over every citizen. Any infringement and PACT jumps into the equation and quickly smothers the rebellion. This novel alarmingly shows America in this distasteful mode. The story frightens an individual into apathy and depression.
Sandy
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon
Historical fiction, loosely based on midwife Martha Ballard. The novel involves a mysterious death which Martha helps in solving. Learned a lot about midwifery at this time.
Lynn
The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store by James McBride
It always takes me about 20 pages to get the rhythm of McBride's writing style, but from there I'm all in. This was a very good reading about numerous quirky characters and their stories, which all revolve around the neighborhood grocery store.
Susan
Transcendent Kingdom by Yaaa Gyasi
Daughter of immigrant Ghanaian tries to resolve her mother's depression and her brother's addition. The protagonist tries to hold onto her faith in God as she watches the two people closest to her descend into a life of pain and guilt. Daughter is a neuroscientist looking for solutions. Original characters that keep you at the heart of the story feeling every beat.
Shelley
The Berry Pickers by Amanda Peters
As a former Maine resident, I appreciate the author's descriptions of the state and would have even liked more. The story was easy to read but I wanted more information on the indigeous peoples in the area. Each family had secrets and tragedies that I would reflect upon when later describing the novel.
Sharon
The Museum of Failures by Thrity Umigar
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. A great read!
Cheryl
Square of Sevens by Laura Shepherd-Robinson
You don’t expect the ending. At 500 pages, it is daunting to start the book, but it is excellent.
Kat
Always With You (Baxter Boys, #1) by Jessie Gussman
She was driving the truck, got in a accident that killed the other driver. He took the rap for her and spent 10 yrs in prison. She became a lawyer and adopted a boy. She wanted to adopt his twin sisters but needed a husband. They loved each other, he got a shop and was mechanic and they bought the house and got married and adopted the kids.
Pam
The Little Liar by Mitch Albom
Filled with lucky breaks and coincidences, this book follow four characters through the horrors of WWII and beyond. The MC, Nico, suffers greatly from his role as a liar for the Nazi, even though he was an innocent, naive child when he did so. His life is devoted to trying to atone for his deceit.
Noreen
The Worth of a Ruby by Lya Badgley
I won this book from the author so I gave her a boost. Her descriptions of the heat, food, locales, and people of Burma are really A+. Most books have a twist at the end - this one comes right in the middle.
Linda
Tom Lake by Ann Patchett
At first I was intrigued by the contrast between an aspiring, talented actress, Lara, with a glamorous life in Los Angeles who ends up happily living at a cherry farm in Michigan. Then I was immersed in how that happened as she relates her past to her daughters. The book makes more sense if you're familiar with Thornton Wilder's play, "Our Town".
Beverlee
Family Family by Laurie Frankel
Literally couldn't put it down! The story made me laugh and cry - sometimes at the same time. Lovely book about family and what the definition really is!
Tia
The River We Remember by William Kent Krueger
This book flows seamlessly, weaving the characterizations into the mystery.
Tricha
Where We Started by Ashley Munoz
Wes has always been there for Callie since they were young. Her one wish was for him to never join her father's motorcycle club. He kept his word to not join until she was kidnapped by a rival club. She asked her father to release him but he won't. She leaves and is back several years later for her father's funeral. The attraction is still there between them, but there are still many obstacles to overcome.
Barbara
Watching You by Lisa Jewell
Another good mystery from Lisa Jewell, who has become one of my favorite mystery authors. The story is full of twists and turns. As usual, I thought I had figured out who the guilty party was - WRONG!
Sheree
Class: A Memoir by Stephanie Land
I really think this author can write. I liked hearing about what happened to her while she was getting her undergraduate degree. It will be interesting to see if she can write as well about other topics. I will definitely read her next book.
Claire
Batu and the Search for the Golden Cup by Zira Nauryzbai
I was drawn to this book because I had not read any stories that incorporate Kazakh mythology before, and in that regard the book delivered. Batu and his friends' adventures bring in many mythological figures as well as exploring some of the history of Kazakhstan under Russian control. A glossary in the back provides context for some of the vocabulary that might be unfamiliar, though pronunciations aren't given and were a struggle for me. What I didn't like about it was the pacing and plot development. It didn't seem very cohesive to me or well paced. The characters' choices and motivations also seemed confused at times, like they've forgotten what they were thinking or planning from one scene to the next without explanation.
Nancy
Midnight in the Garden of Good & Evil by John Berendt
This is the book that made Savannah famous -- if you don't count Sherman giving it to President Lincoln as a Christmas present instead of burning it down. It's a great book for anyone moving to, or just visiting Savannah, covering a true crime murder mystery but also developing some of the city's most colorful characters and places. The author is coming to speak at the upcoming Savannah Book Festival, so we are reading this for both my book clubs, and then will go hear his presentation.
Elizabeth
The Yellow House by Sarah M. Broom
I listened and read this book about a native of New Orleans and her family, who lived through Hurricane Katrina, centered around a yellow house that her mother bought when she was 19. It was an intimate view into Black life in a part of town tourists never see. Broom writes with deep affection for her family and her home, despite the poverty and ineptitude of government. It was an eye-opening revelation for me. I gave it 4 stars only because I had a hard time keeping track of everyone, maybe partially because I listened to much of it (though the narrator was good.)
Donna
The Other Mothers by Katherine Faulkner
Tash is a freelance journalist with a young child trying to get him comfortable with the playgroup at the preschool. She meets a group of rich mothers and tries to keep up with them but can't afford the expenses. She's investigating the recent death of a nanny which has been ruled drowing, but Tash feels there are extenuating circumstances and suspects murder.
Susan
The Other Mothers by Katharine Faulkner
If you like psychological thrillers you will enjoy this book. A fast read.
Rosa
Happiness Falls by Angie Kim
What an impressive, thrilling story. This is so much more than a missing-person mystery. Told from the perspective of Mia, the smart and philosophical 20-year-old twin sister of John, sister of Eugene, daughter of Hannah and Adam, this is the story of how the family responds when the father Adam goes missing after going on a hike with Eugene. Eugene is nonverbal, having Angelman Syndrome, which takes away his ability to speak. So the last person to see Adam is not easily able to tell us what happened. There so many layers to the plot, and I was all in, couldn't put the book down. Angie Kim is a marvel.
Jeanne
The Queen of Sugar Hill by ReShonda Tate
THE QUEEN OF SUGAR HILL by ReShonda Tate is a well-written, mesmerizing fictional novel about the sometimes tumultuous life of Hattie McDonald who was the first Black person to win an Oscar for her role as Mammy when she won the Best Supporting Actress in the classic film "Gone With the Wind". It was not all a bed of roses for Ms. McDaniel after she won the award because she couldn’t find work as she was frowned upon by both Black and White. The author has done an excellent job in providing readers with an insight into who the real Hattie McDaniel was as she had the strength, determination and tenacity to demonstrate to others to never give up on your dreams even in the face of adversity and conflict, all while struggling through four f
Jeanne
River East, River West by Aubre Rey Lescure
RIVER EAST RIVER WEST by Aube Rey Lescure is an intricate story set in an east-to-west immigrant storyline in a developing modern China. It is the story of fourteen-year-old Alva and her American mother, Sloan. When Alva’s mother marries their landlord, Alva’s life is forever changed. This is a well-written, intense story about a young girl growing up with family drama in a world where politics and society are changing. The author provided insight into who the characters were and how they dealt with how the world was changing around them. I received an uncorrected proof of this riveting, emotional book from the author and Harper Collins Publishing through Goodreads. At times, I found it a little hard to follow.
Barbara
Go As a River by Shelley Read
After a slow start and reading about yet another dysfunctional family fracturing, I followed the now-familiar character of a young woman who has to rely on her own inner strengths and insights to persevere. Set in Colorado on a peach (!) farm, post WWII, Victoria must also cope with a town soon to be inundated by dam construction. Some parts pushed me to incredulity but I still had enough sympathy for her that I believed she could and would be a winner. The emotional pull reminded me of the tears I shed for LIGHT BETWEEN OCEANS and other tearjerkers. The imagery reminded me of CRAWDADS.
Lori
Great Small Things by Jodi Picoult
Interesting story about the moral dilemma faced by someone who is the victim of overt racism.
Laura
We Must Not Think of Ourselves by Lauren Grodstein
So good. A Jewish man named Adam living in the Warsaw ghetto in 1940 is tasked with helping to collect the stories of the people around him to preserve their history. He teaches English to a handful of young people and lives in an apartment with nine people. He tells not only his story, but he interviews the students and the people in his apartment. It is so good (did I say that?). The stories are touching and sad and sweet. The characters are vivid. I listened to the audiobook version and the narrators are excellent.
Linda
The Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese
The first time I read a book by Verghese it was CUTTING FOR STONE and I was stunned and thoroughly enjoyed it. My book club recently suggested reading his newest book, THE COVENANT OF WATER. We all found that book to be very interesting as well as eye-opening. The 771+ pages were not intimidating and I skipped several of my favorite TV shows just so I could keep reading. I am determined to read more of his books.
Betty
Me Before You by Jojo Moyes
I couldn't put this book down. This was the first book I read by Jojo Moyes and I love the way she writes. The subject of assisted suicide really made me think about how it affects your family and friends. This book prompted very serious discussions at my book club on the topic.
Claire
What We Sow by Jennifer Jewell
The mix of diary and the more academic sections was not done particularly well in my opinion. Honestly, the diary entries didn't contributed much. The author dives into many social issues relating to agriculture, and seed ownership and stewardship and the personal asides didn’t connect strongly with these topics at times. They were also too surface-level to be an interesting look into the author’s experiences. I was also put off by the ways the author appealed to the idea of the sacredness of nature to oppose harmful modern agricultural techniques. The natural = good/divine, human-made = bad (so all good things must be natural) irritated me and undermined some of the author's points.
MH
Never, Never by Colleen Hoover
Teen book about a couple who find themselves with no memory of their past. They do remember some things - how to use GPS and phones - but not others like where they live or how to play football. I didn’t think the explanation for what happened to them was sufficient, but enjoyed the book.
Liz
Did You Hear About Kitty Karr? by Crystal Smith Paul
Kitty Karr was born in the Deep South. She is biracial, but light skinned enough that she can “pass” as White. At a young age, her mother sends her to California in order to live her life as a White woman. She becomes a famous movie star. In my opinion, this book had the potential to be great, but it fell very short. The story in and of itself was very interesting. However, there were way too many characters making it hard to follow the story. The story jumped back and forth in time, thereby taking away its flow.
Claire
Montpelier Tomorrow by Marylee MacDonald
This story is kind of miserable, a creeping, mundane misery. I sympathized with the major characters, while also finding them all unlikable and exhausting. It’s very real, the ways they are horrible to each other, but I wish it had led to something, good or bad, but something more. The book is a mixed bag for me. I like seeing imperfect characters get worse under stress and the ways people can love each other and never really understand each other or find the right way to fit in each other’s lives. There are points in the story where that is done well, but there are others where it’s too much. There are areas where I wish the fat had been trimmed.
Claire
Inside Harare Alcatraz and Other Short Stories by Andrew Chatora
The style of writing in these first two stories was almost more like that of nonfiction essays than creative short stories to me. It was very matter-of-fact and somewhat dry. I'm interested in the perspectives shared in these stories and promised in the rest, but the writing style is not my favorite.
Claire
Five Lords of Dusk by F. Malbeck
Everything in this book feels contextless. In the first couple of chapters, I genuinely wondered if I’d picked up Book 2 of the series instead, but it keeps feeling that way even when new elements are being introduced. Case in point: Dorian and Shye’s relationship. There must have been a lot of off-screen development because I got nothing from them. There was the brief, ‘Oh no, he’s hot/they’re hot,’ then boom love, ‘obviously, I’d give up my whole life and world to be with you.’ I barely had a sense of who these characters were and what they wanted, much less what they saw in each other. Shye, as a character, was directionless and kind of clueless in a way that didn’t seem purposeful to the narrative.
Julie
Chenneville by Paulette Jiles
Excellent book, loved it! Great writing, kind of a slow burn of a novel until you get to the last 1/3, then you want to race though.
Amy
Signal Fires by Dani Shapiro
Beautifully written with very relatable characters. I found myself highlighting in several places and thinking to myself “well said”. I really enjoyed the parent/child relationships explored in this novel.
Tessa
The Case of the Missing Servant by Tarquin Hall
3.5 stars. This debut novel was just delightful! Puri is a marvelous character, and I want to follow the series just to get to know him better. But the supporting cast is also wonderful. As Puri and his team travel from the swanky Gymkhana Club to the slums of Dehli, and from a desert oasis to a distant mine, the reader gets a view of modern-day India that is colorfully vivid. I’ll definitely read more from this author.
Francisca
American Dirt by Jeanine Cummins
Lydia runs a bookstore in Acapulco. When her journalist husband publishes a profile of the head of the local drug cartel, their family is in the crosshairs. Lydia has to flee with her son and there is no one she can truly trust. This is a gripping story. Lydia is an intelligent woman but she is not equipped with the street smarts for this journey. Luck and the kindness of a few strangers, plus her basic privilege (as a white, middle-class, educated woman with money in the bank), all serve her well. But I have some issues with the book.
Janet
Listen to Me by Tess Gerritsen
I wish the TV series would come back. Love this series and characters.
Anita
In the Shadow of Alabama by Judy Reene Singer
This is a wonderful fiction book based on a true story. It is about Marty Fleischer, a Jewish man from Brooklyn, NY who is a sergeant of a platoon of Black soldiers in Alabama during WWII. It is beautifully written about the relationship Marty has with his soldiers. Rachel, his daughter, learns things about her father she didn't know after he dies, and she meets one of them, Willie Jackson.
Heartbreaking at times, I still loved it, and wish I could give it much more than 5 stars!
Sharon
Mothered by Zoje Stage
Having read Stage's previous book BABY TEETH, I was prepared for the horror/psycho elements. It was fascinating to watch the deterioration of Grace as she loses herself in her world of nightmares. Was she a victim of her evil twin and mother?
Jill
The Guardians by John Grisham
Another excellent read by John Grisham is the story of three lawyers called The Guardians who work to try and get innocent people out of prison. Cullen Post, the main character who is both a lawyer and minister, works in this group seeks to free Quincy Miller, a man accused of murdering a prominent lawyer in Florida small town. People in the town will do anything to keep Post from finding out the truth behind the murder. A rousing legal thriller sure to please any Grisham fan and those new to his work.
Susan
Small Town Sins by Ken Jaworowski
Different premise, many turns, enjoyable but sad.
Shirley
Beyond That, the Sea by Laura Spence-Ash
This saga spanned almost 40 years from 1940 through 1977. It is the story of an 11-year-old girl from London, who was sent to Boston by her parents to be safe from the bombings in London. It was a story of family, relationships, love, growth and belonging. Although the first part takes place during WWII, it is not a war story. I liked the way the author built the characters and let us in on their thoughts and dreams - and fears. Each family member had a part in the story and it was beautifully put together.
Rose
One Wrong Word by Hank Phillippi Ryan
Hank Phillippi Ryan has written a complex thriller. Arden Ward is a crisis management expert who is fired due to a false accusation by a client's wife. But, the managing partner of the firm offers Arden a way to save her reputation by representing a man, Ned Bannister, recently acquitted of murder for killing a skateboarder with his car, while intoxicated. Cordelia, Ned's wife, hires Arden to restore Ned's reputation. However, Ned's lawyer is hit by a car that looks like Ned's. Ned claims innocence, but when his lawyer awakens in the hospital she just says one word "Ned". Arden works to clear his name, but she worries that she is being lied to, but who is lying and who is telling the truth? Keeps you guessing.
Rose
In Her Defense by Amy Impellizzeri
Opal Rowen has to tell her son CJ that Uncle Pete won't be coming around anymore. Why? Because he is dead, and Opal is the prime suspect. Pete was the husband of her former friend, Ingrid DiLaurio, who Opal retains as her lawyer, calling in a favor. Ingrid doesn't think Opal is guilty, but is relieved that she, herself, isn't arrested. As the case goes on, there are many things to complicate the case-the judge, the prosecutor, the nanny. Interesting first book in a series about the Riversedge Law Club.
Rose
Barr None by Amy Impellizzeri
Complex story about the inner workings of an elite law firm in NYC, and the corruption that exists within. Carly gets a job at the prestigious law firm, Barr Knoll, but there are many secrets that come to light. The Triplets are a recurring theme - and what happened to these women.
Rose
The Tip Line by Vanessa Cuti
Virginia takes a job handling the tip line at the local police station. Her goal? To land a husband. She automatically sets her sights on a kind homicide detective, Charlie Ford. But, just as things look promising, she switches direction and looks to the chief - Declan Brady. Then she receives a call on the tip line from Verona, a sex worker, who tells Virginia that there are dead bodies on a beach. Subsequent calls from Verona identify the killer as a police officer. But, Virginia doesn't want to believe it, because these men are her prospects for husband. Strange book, told mainly through the thoughts of Virginia.
Rose
The Gulf by Rachel Cochran
In small town Parson, TX, Louisa (Lou) is helping Miss Kate renovate an old mansion. Miss Kate, mother of her estranged childhood friend, Joanna, was always a second mom to Lou. But, when Lou finds Miss Kate dead in her garden, she begins to suspect Joanna and her brother, Seth, of murdering Miss Kate. Lou is in a relationship with Heather, her dead brother, Robby's ex and mother of their child, Sarah. But, she can't shake the old feelings she had for Joanna. However, there are many secrets in this small town that come to light as Lou finds the truth about Miss Kate's past, her religious fanaticism, and her friend Peg, who wants to create a haven for women in the town. Sinister story.
Rose
I Am Pilgrim by Terry Hayes
I wanted to read this book for a while, and finally did it! This is a spy thriller and a terrifying story. It begins when a woman is found dead in a hotel room. "Pilgrim" is called to help investigate, and he reluctantly agrees. The scene and its clues point to Turkey, and Pilgrim dreads what that means. In Saudi Arabia, a dad is beheaded, and his son takes his place as the patriarch of the family, who is staunchly religious. When he witnesses his mother without her veil, he is furious, and leaves to join a religious crusade against the west. He develops a deadly virus to wipe out humanity, esp. in the U.S. This complex tale is full of intrigue, secrets, and deadly violence. It is a fast-paced thriller, although it is a long novel.
Dale
The Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese
Once again Verghese is a masterful author. CUTTING FOR STONE is my all-time favorite; now this is my second. Richly imaginative and beautifully written. Fell in love with the characters and following the family through the generations was fulfilling. I did not want this story to end.
Rose
The Stranger Upstairs by Lisa M. Matlin
Sarah Slade and her husband Joe have just bought Black Wood House, aka "The Murder House", because a man killed his wife, attacked his daughter, and then killed himself there years earlier. Sarah is looking to renovate the house and post the progress on social media, hoping to profit from it. However, both she and Joe are hiding secrets, and the house and the neighbors don't seem to want him there. Sarah is supposed to be a therapist helping others, but her marriage and her health are both crumbling. Sarah, it seems has a dark past, and it is all revealed during the telling of the story. She is an unreliable narrator and her descent into madness is frightening, but is it since she moved to the house or has she always had issues?
Linda
Blessing of the Lost Girls by J. A. Jance
Joanna Brady’s daughter Jenny is studying criminal justice when she gets involved in an assault case. She talks to a girl who was assaulted at a rodeo and Jenny thinks the assailant could be the serial killer police are looking for. The victim has the assailant’s glasses and a fingerprint gets the name of a man who supposedly drowned several years ago but his ex-wife doesn't believe he drowned. Dan Pardee, an agent with a newly formed government agency that investigates cases involving missing and/or murdered indigenous women, is in charge of the investigation that reveals more missing women and all revolved around rodeos. A tip leads Dan to the killer.
Linda
Catch Her Death by Melinda Leigh
Bree Taggert’s friend and old partner Dana Romano is being looked at for the shooting death of Dr. Kent McFadden. Arriving at his house for dinner, Dana was knocked down by a man running down the steps from the bedrooms. He starts choking her and she knocks him off and he runs out the door. Bree and Dana think it might be connected to one of Dana's old cases when she was a police officer in Philadelphia.
Linda
Kyland by Mia Sheridan
Tenleigh Falyn and Kyland Barrett grew up poor in the Appalachian mountains. Both were up for a college scholarship that paid for four years and all expenses and both knew it was their own way out of unceasing poverty and hardship. Tenleigh deliberately did poorly on her exam so that Kyland would get it. He got the scholarship but went to the manager of the mine and made a bargain. He didn't want to leave Tenleigh behind because he had seen what happened to the women in Appalachia as they grew old before their time. If Tenleigh were given the scholarship, he agreed to work underground in the mine for the four years. Tenleigh got her degree and returned to Kentucky and learned what Kyland had done. He loved her enough to do this.
Linda
Things You Save in a Fire by Katherine Center
Cassie Hanwell has mixed emotions about her mother who left her family on Cassie's 16th birthday to go live with a professor she met, but now she needs Cassie's help. Leaving her firefighter job in Austin was hard but she has a new firefighter job outside Boston. Not everyone is happy to see a woman join the team. Firefighter DiStasio is extremely vocal about Cassie joining the crew and wants her gone. Firefighter Owen Callaghan started the same day as Cassie and they were often working or training together. Their relationship changed when she went with Owen to his parents' party and kissed him. They have to act as only friends, especially around DiStasio who is looking for a reason to get rid of Cassie.
Linda
My Roommate Is a Vampire by Jenna Levine
Cassie is about to be evicted when she finds an advertisement for a roommate for $200 a month in an exclusive section of Chicago. When she knocks on the door to meet the owner, she is flabbergasted. What a hunk! She becomes his roommate and only discovers he’s a vampire when she opens the refrigerator and finds packets of blood. She runs away screaming but returns when he vows to never hurt her. He needs to learn how to act in the current day and needs her help. She agrees but the attraction between them is growing. She is falling in love with a vampire!
Linda
Hope Flames by Jaci Burton
After being hurt in a previous relationship, Emma Burnett is not looking for love but she is attracted to local policeman Luke McCormack. After a bad marriage ended, Luke is not looking for a relationship either. He is a one-night guy. But when he brings his K-9 Boomer in for veterinarian Emma to check him out, attraction sizzles between them. He takes her to a baseball game and is surprised at her love of the game. They live in a small town and everyone is nosy and think they are a couple. They deny this and tell everyone they are just friends. Everyone just smiles because they can see how Emma and Luke look at each other and it's not just friendship.
Linda
Hope Burns by Jaci Burton
Molly Burnett and Carter Richards were high school sweethearts until an unplanned pregnancy stunned both. After a miscarriage, Molly ran from city to city but was never able to outrun her memories of Carter, the only man she had ever loved. Now back in Hope to care for her mother, she reunites with Carter and makes it clear she is not there to stay. He tells her how he feels and that she blamed him but he had feelings, too. She leaves but is he ready to let her go?
Sandy
Kill All Your Darlings by David Bell
After years of struggling to write following the deaths of his wife and son, English professor Conner Nye publishes his first novel, a thriller about the death of a young woman. There's just one problem, Conner didn't write the book. His missing student did. Keeps you guessing until the end.
Sonia
The Ensemble by Aja Gabel
Recommended for those who like stories about friends that span over years.
Barbara
The Paris Housekeeper by Renee Ryan
THE PARIS HOUSEKEEPER showed me that with proper depth and strong characters, WWII books can still be exciting. What started as a good historical fiction story turns into a nail-biting page-turner. Can a person straddle the line between good and evil? Is it all right to embrace evil for the sake of good? What happens to dignity when desperation strikes? These are the questions Ryan addresses. And it’s the answers that drive the plot to its spectacular climax. This book isn’t getting the love it deserves because it’s being marketed under HQ’s Love Inspired. It’s not an inspirational! Thanks to Harlequin’s mistake, people are missing out on an author as good as Pam Jenoff!
Kimberley
Sunday at the Sunflower Inn by Jodi Thomas
Ageless love, family, rebellion and mystery are the crisscrossing themes of this novel. I did expect the traditional small town story but was pleasantly surprised when it took a mysterious turn. Characters such as JAM, McCoy and Tucson take the reader on a roller coaster of emotion. It is a good length and quickly becomes a page-turner.
Richard N B
Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir
Earth is threatened with an extinction-level event. Ryland Grace has just awakened from a coma while aboard a spaceship sent to fix the problem. But the rest of the crew is dead and now he has to do it all alone. Or does he? The book jacket promises “an irresistible interstellar adventure” and that is exactly what Weir delivers.
Vickie
The Color Purple by Alice Walker
Reading this before I see the new movie. Such a sad and moving book. Highly recommend reading or revisiting this one again.
Janis
A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles
My third time to read this book (re-read it for a new book club I am in). I love this book! The beautiful writing and descriptions, the observations/insights into the Count’s new circumstances, the new friendships, the relationship between him, Nina and Sophia and what he does for them both… Will always be one of my favorites and will continue to recommend.
Becky
Bad Animals by Sarah Braunstein
I had given BAD ANIMALS a couple days to "sit with me" before writing this review. I'm still not sure how I feel about the book. It was well written, the story was mostly engaging; but I didn't like any of the main characters. I can't decide if Maeve was just a total innocent caught up in circumstances beyond her control or she was a jaded and cynical psychopath who attempted to destroy a child. Or maybe the child was the psychopath who attempted to destroy the adult Maeve. I am certain Harrison was a cynical "user" of people for his own enjoyment and financial gain. Poor Jack was caught in the middle of Harrison and Maeve's shenanigan's and the ultimate loser.
Rose
Her Sweet Revenge by Sarah Bonner
Helena and Thea are dear friends, so when Thea hears that Helena has died, she wants to investigate it. Told in dual timelines (Helena, 2018 and Thea, 2022), we learn of Helena's marriage to Edward, her fraught relationship with her mother-in-law Geraldine, and her fear of being discovered for influencing the family's inheritance. Helena helps Ella, who Geraldine recently fired, to get a job with Edward. She shares her concerns with Ella. Later, Thea wants to find Ella, as she believes Ella may have a clue to Helena's death. She finds Jen, who agrees to help Thea get revenge on Edward. All of this leads to a very twisty plot. Lots of secrets, lies, revenge - as well as grifting! I knew where some of this was going, but some surprises!
Anastasia
A Court of Wings and Ruin by Sarah J. Maas
This book was amazing. Its around 700 pages but I was absolutely hooked the entire time. It was so full of action, feelings and vibes.
Elizabeth
The Roaring Days of Zora Lily by Noelle Salazar
Who is Zora Lily Hough? She is a character you will fall in love with as you follow her through her days helping her family cope with poverty and tragedy and as she works as a day nanny for the Harringtons and as she waits for her dreams to come true.
Elizabeth
The Paris Housekeeper by Renee Ryan
Every French citizen declared: Paris won't be invaded. But...Paris was invaded, and the Germans took over the city and the Hotel Ritz. Most of the citizens left, but we meet three women who couldn't escape because of their situations and are connected to the Hotel Ritz. THE PARIS HOUSEKEEPER is another Renee Ryan gem that will be devoured by historical fiction fans and loved by those who enjoy female characters as the main focus.
Elizabeth
Dreaming of Water by A. J. Banner
It’s a GOOD one!! What had her aunt found, and why didn't she tell Astrid what it was when they talked on the phone? DREAMING OF WATER kept me turning the pages. The writing and the story line are so good. The twist at the end, and when all the secrets are revealed, is great!!
Elizabeth
Deadly Tides by Mary Keliikoa
How did Nora get out of the facility, walk three miles away, and end up with a bloody tennis shoe in her hands? Lots going on and lots of tension that will keep your interest. My first book by this author - a very good read.
Elizabeth
Sisters Under the Rising Sun by Heather Morris
Having children sent away, being on a boat sunk by the Japanese, taken prisoner, and living without decent health care or food is where we meet all those who survived from the Vyner Brooke merchant ship and others as they endure the hardships in a Japanese POW camp.
SISTERS UNDER THE RISING SUN is based on true events and real women. I enjoyed her other books more, but this is still a good read.
Elizabeth
When I'm Dead by Hannah Morrissey
Teenagers harassing each other, but murdering each other? The story is gripping and a bit gory, but one you won't want to put down or perhaps be able to figure out. I had one person in mind the whole time. Will you figure it out?
Donna
Mercury by Amy Jo Burns
With lots of family drama and an eerie mystery, MERCURY is a blending of genres, literary, romance, coming-of-age, and mystery. This is a character-driven read about family, sacrifices made and forgiveness. Wonderfully written.
Claire
The Unvarnished Gary Phillips by Gary Phillips
Personally, the stories felt too similar to be very enjoyable for me -- the settings varied from far-futures to the early 1900s, with a variety of fantasy and sci-fi elements, but the characters, plots, and story structures didn't vary much. The characters and plots (when there were plots) were thin, with a greater focus on the action, which was decent, though the writing was occasionally clunky, but, again, fairly same-y.
Beth
The Outsider by Anthony Franze
When I learned that Alex Finlay, one of my go-to authors, also writes under the pen name Anthony Franze, I read the Franze novel, THE OUTSIDER, to find out why. Is there a difference between Franze and Finlay novels? The obvious difference I see in THE OUTSIDER is the subject matter. Here the concentration is on the lives of lawyers and judges and their work (and escapades). Grayson is a young lawyer who grew up in a rough neighborhood and did not graduate from an Ivy League school, but he got his foot in the door of the Supreme Court of the United States by working there as a messenger. He wanted to be a law clerk. That happens when Grayson interrupts a mugging of the chief justice of the Supreme Court. Now he is a law clerk.
Patricia
Payback in Death by J. D. Robb
I have read every IN DEATH book written. This book is as exciting as all the others.
Elizabeth
The Heiress by Rachel Hawkins
WOW!! You NEED to add this to your reading list NOW!! It is SO GOOD!! Still puzzling after all these years are two things: Was Ruby McTavish really kidnapped and found a year later and why did she adopt Cam and make him the sole heir to the family’s fortune? Secrets, secrets, secrets - lies, lies, lies - they all have them and they all tell them in this juicy, difficult-to-put-down read that will have your jaw dropping when you find out everything. And as the old saying goes, “money is the root of all evil.”
Elizabeth
Recipe for a Charmed Life by Rachel Linden
A chef losing her sense of taste? How can Georgia go on? RECIPE FOR A CHARMED LIFE is a sweet, read with lovable characters. If you need something light, breezy, heartwarming and fun, add this book to your TBR list!
Elizabeth
Northwoods by Amy Pease
A lot is going on in this small lakeside resort town which has a woman sheriff and only two other police officers - one being her son Eli who has PTSD from his time in Afghanistan. NORTHWOODS was a bit confusing at first, but once the investigation got going, my interest picked up. A well-written debut.
Michelle
The Personal Librarian by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray
I loved the insights into the creation and expansion of J. Pierpont Morgan's personal library. This novel brought history alive and the story of real-life Belle and her relationship both with the love of literature and the notorious American business titan made for wonderful reading. I found myself Googling historical events as I read the book -- it lit a fire in me to do more reading about this time in American history.
Linda
One Night on the Island by Josie Silver
Cleo Wilder is sent to Salvation Island off the coast of Ireland by her boss for an extended rest. She is supposed to “self-couple” to find herself. Mack Sullivan comes to the land of his ancestors to find his true self. He has heard stories of the island from his grandmother and mother and wants to see for himself. His home life is in disarray after his wife told him she wanted space and he doesn’t know what to do with himself. Reservations for the cottage were messed up and Cleo and Mack find themselves sharing the one-room cottage. Dislike turns into friendship and then love. Mack has to return to Boston for his two sons and Cleo is soon to return to London. Will they ever see one another again?
Linda
The Ex-Mas Holidays by Zoe Allison
Maya is helping out at the ski resort when she runs into Sam. Eight years ago, he broke her heart when she was told that he didn’t want to see her anymore. She went on to the university and was an accountant until her job was eliminated. Now she is back home and loving teaching children how to ski. Sam is also an instructor and is with Cat, the woman who told Maya that Sam did not want to see her anymore. Sam was in love with Maya but had to settle for Cat. Now he wonders if he ever really knew Cat as he has never forgotten Maya.
Linda
Travis by Mia Sheridan
Travis Hale is the police chief in Pelion, the town owned by his brother Archer Hale. He flirts with the temporary employee at the smoothie booth at the club and smiles as he tastes the flavorful drink she concocted for him. Haven Torres and her brother Easton have been traveling over the country for two years and not staying in any town for long. In Pelion, she feels a kind of peace. She and Travis end up falling in love but each saying they are only friends. She plans on leaving and Travis realizes how much he loves and needs her. Can he get her to stay?
Linda
After That Night by Karin Slaughter
GBI investigator Will Trent and coroner Dr. Sara Linton are engaged to be married. Both become involved in a rape case where Sara tried to save the young woman and vowed she would find the rapist. Investigations led to a club of prominent doctors that Sara had attended medical school with. Each member had a duty assigned whether it was to scare the potential victim by texts, stalking the victim, or filming the actual rape. One of the doctors had got his son involved and now both would end up in prison.
Francisca
Queen of the Tambourine by Jane Gardam
This slim novel is written in epistolary style, as Eliza Peabody writes letters to her former neighbor. The novel won Britain’s Whitebread Award for Best Novel of the Year in 1991, but it missed the mark for me. I liked it but didn’t love it.
shelly
Upside Down by Danielle Steel
Ardith Law is a famous Hollywood legend and is respected by those in the industry. She has been living with fellow actor, Bill West, for more than ten years. They were like a couple and had a very good relationship. Suddenly Bill is asked to work on a film, he is not as selective as Ardith, and takes the part. He asks in his contract if they would hire a temporary assistant while he is filming in London. They agree but the assistant is not a woman but a man, Josh Gray who arrives on a motorcycle. Ardith is shocked at the way he is dressed and that he arrived on a motorcycle. Ardith sits down and has a talk with Josh and tells her what is expected to do and to dress for the occasion. What started like a rocky start suddenly changes.
Rose
First Lie Wins by Ashley Elston
Evie Porter has the perfect life - a boyfriend, Ryan Sumner, who adores her and wants her to share his life. But, we quickly find out that Evie is not Evie, at all. Her entire life has been created so that she can con people, while working for Mr. Smith who she has never met. She is given a job, and Ryan is the mark. So, even her life with Ryan is not real. But, Evie is developing feelings for Ryan. When Evie is a suspect in a killing, she needs to go to Atlanta. Ryan insists on traveling with her. She needs to keep Ryan from suspecting what she is doing, all while keeping a step ahead of those pulling the strings. A good cat and mouse game.
Jill
The Invisible Hour by Alice Hoffman
Hoffman incorporates strong women as characters in her novel. Parts of novel is a modern retelling of Nathaniel Hawthorne’s THE SCARLET LETTER. Not trying to rewrite the brilliant, THE SCARLET LETTER, but touching upon it in a special magical way that Hoffman does expertly. There is reoccurring imagery throughout connecting settings and characters, such as birds, throughout the novel. The second half of the book is magical when Mia, time travels back 200 years in time. Actually, there are references of magic peppered throughout the book. Hoffman tells her story through places, as well as, characters. There is a focus on women’s rights from the 1800s vs. the 2000s.
Emily
Hell on High by Michael Clark
This is a tense horror thriller about Juliana who was running for her life from some vicious occultism while trying to save her sister from some hideous nightmares. I highly recommend this book to any reader who enjoys a horrifying and heart-pounding adventure.
Emily
Gorgeous Gruesome Faces by Linda Cheng
This story is about three besties ,Candie, Mina and Sunny, who have formed a genuine and trustworthy bond through their partnership in a K-pop inspired musical industry. However, Candie holds some hidden dark horrifying secrets that eventually have changed the destiny of their lives!
This is Linda Cheng’s debut novel which is a fresh, authentic and intriguing horror thriller that I highly recommend to fans of this genre!
Rose
The Cloisters by Katy Hays
Ann Stilwell leaves Washington State hoping to be an art curator at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in NYC. Instead, she is assigned to work for Patrick Roland at The Cloisters, a Gothic museum, alongside Rachel Mondray. Rachel quickly takes Ann under her wing, especially after Ann discovers a 15th C artifact, a set of Tarot cards. Ann becomes very interested in reading Tarot. Ann also falls for Leo Bitburg, the Cloisters gardener, who has a secret. When someone dies, the museum and the staff are all questioned. Ann questions everything she thought was real and realizes that she doesn't really know those around her.
Sean
Death in the Sunshine by Steph Broadribb
Steph Broadribb tells the quaint story of some seniors who solve crimes in their retirement community in Florida. The book is harmless and interesting but had some big flaws. The British writer writes American characters very...British, and there are a handful of plot holes. She did a much better job creating intrigue with the characters backstories than the present. Overall, an okay mystery that has some structural problems.
Rose
Crossing to Safety by Wallace Stegner
CROSSING TO SAFETY is the story of two couples: Larry and Sally, and Charity and Sid, who meet each other when Larry and Sally move to Wisconsin. It follows their lives over many years, showing how friendship can carry you through life's tough moments. The enduring friendship of these couples is at times infuriating, but is truly remarkable. Charity and Sid are wealthy, and they share their fortunes with Larry and Sally. When Sally has a difficult birth, Charity helps the family. Sally contracts polio, and Charity again helps. Finally, at the end of Charity's life, she wants to die peacefully, without Sid bearing any sorrow. But, Sid doesn't understand this. Larry and Sally come to be with their friends.
Rose
This Is Happiness by Niall Williams
No one remembers when the rain began in Faha, but now it is stopping. This small Irish community
is also on the brink of something new - electricity. The story is told by Noel Crowe, a 17-year-old who is entranced by Christy and his story of love and loss. After meeting Christy, Noel also falls in and out of love. This is a wonderful story and I enjoyed every moment of it.
Rose
Dirty Laundry by Disha Bose
In a small community in Ireland, three couples' lives are entwined, and eventually, it turns deadly.
Ciara and Gerry are in a loveless marriage. Ciara posts pictures of their "perfect" life on Instagram. However, Lauren knows their family isn't perfect. She and Ciara have a frosty relationship. Lauren is also concerned that her partner, Sean, is back to his unfaithful ways. Finally, there is Mushti and Parth, Indian immigrants, who have an arranged marriage. Mushti doesn't trust Parth, especially after she catches him looking at Ciara in a flirtatious manner.
Then, Ciara is found dead at the bottom of her stairs. The novel gives the backstory of these couples. Odd ending. Just a gossipy, unhappy bunch of people!
Peg
Trail of the Lost by Andrea Lankford
Recounts author's efforts to search for three missing hikers along the Pacific Crest Trail. It captures the immense complexity of such searching along with the emotional terrain of the hikers and searchers.
Nancy
Mad Honey by Jodi Picoult and Jennifer Finney Boylan
Very interesting but I didn’t like the way it was written, felt too disjointed. Loved the story.
Kelley
The Locked Door by Freida McFadden
A good twisty, psychological thriller.
Barbara
A Stranger in the House by Shari Lapena
My first book from this author. Interesting subject and the double twist at the end was unexpected. I would be interested in reading other books from this writer.
Michelle
All the Sinners Bleed by S. A. Cosby
A quick page-turner but a little high on the violence index and an anti-climactic ending for me. Great main character and compelling elements in the story. I much preferred this to RAZORBLADE TEARS.
Michelle
Tom Lake by Ann Patchett
Oh, this audiobook was such a delight! Meryl Streep IS Tom Lake! She is the perfect narrator who doesn't just read it. She performs it, for every character, but especially perfect as the main character, Lara - so marvelously done. The writing is beautiful, simply told yet full of beautiful prose.
Laurie
The Lost Van Gogh by Jonathan Santlofer
If you enjoy an art history related mystery thriller, don’t miss Jonathan Santlofer’s next novel, THE LOST VAN GOGH. His LAST MONA LISA is also excellent! Bravo!!
Barbara
Trust by Hernan Diaz
This book can be interpreted in so many ways. Thought-provoking and well written.
Nancy
Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil by John Berendt
If you live in, ever lived in, or are thinking about living in Savannah, this is a "must-read." It's not a new book, but it's a great true murder mystery, character build-up and travelogue for the Hostess City. We're reading it for two book clubs because the author is coming to speak at the Savannah Book Festival next month. You'll not only get a feel for the city, but you'll meet some of its true-to-life fascinating characters.
Sharon
The Cats of Britain by Seamus Mullarkey
A history of cats and their owners in Great Britain. Many of the cats were pampered by their Royals. The cats killed mice that would otherwise spread sicknesses. Cats were used in advertisements, which most people paid attention to.
Jayme
Rhapsodic by Laura Thalassa
I don't think I have ever found a book so jarring, or one that has made me so angry. It doesn't matter if you call it paranormal romance or a romantic fantasy, the bottom line is this is a story about a barely sixteen-year-old girl who has been traumatized by sexual abuse and violence and is being groomed by an older man to become his sexual plaything and consort. No matter how many times this author states that in the supernatural world sixteen-year olds are adults, they are not. Shame on you Laura Thalassa for writing this book and glorifying and romanticizing "grooming" and "waiting." I can't believe that this was written and published in 2016. Shame on everyone involved with this book.
Mimi
The Last Love Note by Emma Grey
This book has a range of emotions. At times you are laughing out loud and other times you feel the visceral heartbreak. Emma Grey has taken her own story and turned it into a fantastic read.
Alice
The German Wife by Kelly Rimmer
We will be discussing this book at our February book club meeting. I am very interested to see what we all thought of the moral issue. I highly recommend this for a book club...so much to talk about! I loved the book!!
Cathie
One Wrong Word by Hank Phillippi Ryan
When we first meet Arden Ward, she is a crisis management expert who has been falsely accused of having an affair with a client and is subsequently fired. However, before she leaves her job, her boss gives her one last client – Ned and Cordelia Bannister. Ned is a real estate executive in Boston and for the last year has been on trail for the fatal hit-and-run accident in his building’s parking garage. After he is found not guilty by the jury, he and Cordelia think their lives will go back to normal quickly. However, that is not the case. Cordelia is getting threatening text messages and she’s not sure where they are coming from. She also questions whether Ned is really innocent of the crime. Lots of red herrings throughout.
Marianne
Lady Tan’s Circle of Women by Lisa See
Couldn’t put it down! Fascinating!
Linda
Lone Wolf by Jodi Picoult
Our January 2024 book club selection is LONE WOLF; it's a mesmerizing read about a biologist who leaves his family to live with a pack of wolves in Canada, and the implications for his family. It's going to be an outstanding club discussion, and we highly recommend this book.
Susan
No Higher Honor by Condoleezza Rice
I enjoy reading about women in politics. Rice provided an excellent view into her role as Secretary of State.
Terri
The Exchange by John Grisham
Not quite the page-turner THE FIRM, but still suspenseful.
Beth
Butts: A Backstory by Heather Radke
The title caught my eye, of course. This is a well-written and well researched nonfiction about (yes!) butts. I read the first half in one day, It is a fascinating book which delves into the ways in which society has regarded this body part through the ages. Radke’s writing includes historical facts as well as interesting topics like how clothes are sized. It is very readable as the author’s style pulls you in. I seldom give 5 stars - I found it fascinating.
Terri
True Fiction by Lee Goldberg
Big Brother is not only tracking our every move, but monitoring our purchases, all while taking over covert operations of the CIA. Book was action-packed and would make a great movie.
MH
Banyan Moon by Thao Thai
The book deals with the complicated relationships between mother and daughter—and grandmother. The three women are Vietnamese living in Florida in an old, rotting house filled with the hoarded piles of junk the grandmother collected. Secrets abound as the youngest comes home and attempts to resolve hurt feelings with her mother.
Maryanne
Signal Fires by Dani Shapiro
So much pain and sorrow. Because of one heartbreaking incident, the lives of every character was changed, and filled with sorrow and challenges. Although depressing, we were made to care deeply about each character.
PJ
If the Tide Turns by Rachel Rueckert
What a great read! This is a very well-researched novel. There are so-called religious settlers in Eastham MA, and the sailors, pirates and privateers. The line blurs with regard to the sailors, pirates and privateers at times, but this just lends more authenticity to the read. It's an age old love story of two people from very different worlds. The book begins in 1715 in Eastham, MA, a port town in New England. Maria is a headstrong young woman and Samuel is a sailor. They meet when Maria jumps off the end of the dock to try to swim and both lives are forever changed. The novel follows both together and separately as they traverse the challenges of their lives. The historical significance is spot-on and makes the reading even better.
Tessa B C
Royal Flush by Rhys Bowen
Book Three in Bowen’s “Royal Spyness” series of cozy mysteries, starring Lady Georgiana Rannoch, thirty-fourth in line to the throne. I like this cozy series. Georgie and her best friend Belinda are quite the pair. And I like the historical background that Bowen weaves into her plots as well.
Linda
River Sing Me Home by Eleanor Shearer
It's so hard to believe this is a debut novel. It's stunning. It's beautiful. It's heartbreaking. Many times I broke down and cried while reading this story. But the author wrote a piece of poetry here. One that is both heartbreaking and sad. It's written with such feeling. I didn't realize that slavery existed in other countries. Well, I knew it did but didn't know anything about it. We didn't learn much about these things in school. I had no idea about Barbados slavery. I learn much when I read and this book was no exception. I learn how strong the Black women were, how hard they fought for their children, how they had to learn to not have feelings in some cases. It made it easier when the White men came and took away they babies.
Sally-Jo
West With Giraffes by Lynda Rutledge
I love giraffs so this was a fun book to read. It was interesting to read of the culture and history of this time. The oppression of Blacks and women really stood out to me. It's also interesting how people judge others so quickly based on appearance. The main characters did this but came to love each other after getting to know each other.
Marilyn
Fresh Water for Flowers by Valerie Perrin
Great book club read.
William
The Edge by David Baldacci
The 6:20 Man, Travis Devine, returns in this thriller that takes place in a small village in coastal Maine. A CIA intelligence operative is killed by persons unknown while on personal leave, but there is no evidence that her death was work related or just personal. Devine is sent by his boss to get the facts about the murder and uncovers family secrets and a town unwilling to help him get the truth. THE EDGE is another David Baldacci story that will interrupt your sleep as putting the book down is a nonstarter.
Janet
Have You Seen Her by Catherine McKenzie
I love the mystery of this book. It kept me in suspense each chapter. I will continue reading her books. A definite thriller that was hard to put down.
Paula
Beyond That, the Sea by Laura Spencer-Ash
The story is written from many characters viewpoints, but I never felt confused reading the story. I didn’t realize when starting the book that it spanned a number of years. I didn’t look ahead. Great book for a group discussion and lots of unexpected outcomes.
Shelley
The Madstone by Elizabeth Crook
Thought this would be an interesting "western" but it took too long to develop the characters and tell the story of this relatively short but harrowing journey through southeastern Texas.
Kathleen
The Farmer's Lawyer by Sarah Vogel
This is a real eye-opener about the plight of the farmers in the ‘80s, and throughout American history. Mostly it is about North Dakota as it is a memoir by Sarah Vogel, an attorney in ND. Although I have been a resident of ND since 1954 I had no idea of the plight of the farmers, and this was a great lesson in ND history.
Wendy
Absolution by Alice McDermott
As I was reading the book I was confused as to who was talking and who they were talking to. For that reason I didn't connect with the book. I watched the interview with Alice and the book came into focus. Because of that, I did like the book.
Elizabeth
Birnam Wood by Eleanor Catton
I really liked Catton's last book THE LUMINARIES and therefore was eager to read BIRNAM WOOD. I didn't like this one quite as much. It a very different book, set in present day New Zealand. It follows an idealistic, anti-capitalistic group of twenty-somethings who form a collective called Birnam Wood that plants unauthorized gardens around the country. One of their members, Mira, goes out to a remote area of New Zealand called Thorndike, which is near a national park, to look for more illegal places to plant and runs into Robert Lemoine, an American billionaire who is involved in his own illegal activities that are revealed during the course of the book. Catton's character studies are complex and fascinating though some of the speeches.
Linda
Death on the Boardwalk by Caleb Wygal
This is the first book in a "cozy" mystery series that takes place in Myrtle Beach, SC. I enjoyed the familiarity of the setting since I live here and recognize many of the locales. And I got a tip on a good local Mexican restaurant! Unfortunately his writing is not well-edited in this book.
Shannon
The 100 Years of Lenni and Margot by Marianne Cronin
This was my favorite book that I read in 2023. It had the right combination of laughter and sadness, and the characters and story will stay with me for a long time. It was a book club choice and every member loved it. I heard it is even being optioned for a movie, and I’m so excited to see who will be cast!
Beverlee
The Personal Librarian by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray
I love this historical fiction novel that brings to Bella DaCosta Greene to life and her story of passing in the 1920s as J.P Morgan's personal librarian. The writing is straightforward like the characters and was a great read/discussion for our book club!
Debbie
The Birthday of Eternity by A. D. Price
THE BIRTHDAY OF ETERNITY covers the world of seances and trickery. Much of the information shows the pros and cons of believing in seances and following a spiritual guru, and turning over your wealth to this leader. MURDER UNDER THE RED MOON by Harini Nagendra follows this same agenda. Maybe more novels will present the dangers of seances and admittance into these spiritual organizations. A. D. Price’s characters tend to mesh into one another due to Price not correctly labeling the character. Many back stories concerning the two detectives fall flat: Kit and Henry. But the reader only receives bits and pieces of these background stories. I will not continue reading Comfort and Company Mysteries.
Connie
The Love of My Life by Rosie Walsh
Kept my interest. Husband realizes he knows little about his wife's earlier years. Then he begins to find information that leads him to think he doesn't know her at all. Lots of twist and turns.
Karen
Democracy Awakening by Heather Cox Richardson
What is refreshing about Richardson is that she puts it out for readers to look at everything, all the history she sites. As factual information. And see it for what it is. This is history. This is evidence. This is the story.
Heather
The House in the Cerulean Sea by T. J. Klune
I did love this book, but I'm very stingy with my five stars. The message Klune imparts should tap into diversity and inclusion and resonate among us all.
Heather
Everyone Here is Lying by Shari Lapena
Not only is everyone lying in the book, but most of them are stupid about it and as a result can't keep their lies straight. It's still a great read and Lapena ranks in my top ten favorite thriller authors.
Kate
The Women by Kristin Hannah
Ms. Hannah knows her history and has done a Herculean amount of research to deliver such a thorough and informative story. Into it she imbues a rich tapestry of lush scenery, the ugliness of war and a vast array of emotions. The reader becomes fully invested in the life of Frankie. We ride the emotional rollercoaster right beside her, the entire way. (It's best to keep the tissue box nearby.) We cheer for her as she conquers fears, disappointments and setbacks. Through it all, hope prevails.
This book opened my eyes and heart to a far deeper understanding of what had transpired back in the 60s. This is an outstanding and well written story that I will gladly share with all my bookish friends.
Janet
The Italian Girls by Debbie Rix
Rating is really 3-1/2 stars. I rated up as I did want to know the ending. However, I honestly didn’t think either of her main characters, Isabella or Livia were that well developed. I especially thought Isabella was insensitive and made many mistakes over and over. The minor characters had even less depth. Isabella seemed very overbearing but that’s all we know about her and Livia’s mother even less. The ending was also somewhat unbelievable.
Marilyn
Horse by Geraldine Brooks
I loved this book. My book club absolutely enjoyed it. We had to admit we had not given the work of many museums a lot of recognition, but this book will pull you in. Furthermore, the integration of race issues is so well done. You don’t want to miss reading this book.
Donna
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon
Martha Ballard was a midwife in Maine in the 1700s. She kept a diary of patients and treatments which is where Lawhon drew her inspiration. Absolutely got lost in the story and loved the characters. Best book I've read in a long time.
Cynthia
The Murder Room by P. D. James
Interesting whodunit by a well-known author. A series of murders occur at a museum which houses a "Murder Room", all of which appear to be copycats of historic murder cases. A host of characters have a motive for the original murder, but it takes a clever police detective to put together the connections with the subsequent victims.
Lana
Welcome to Beach Town by Susan Wiggs
Not of a genre that I normally read, I read this book for a patron's choice book discussion at a nearby library. It was a heartwarming read, but I did find it to be formulaic in both storyline and character development.
Sheree
The Discreet Charm of the Big Bad Wolf by Alexander McCall Smith
I really liked the author's writing, but it seemed to go on and on and not be very interesting. It did not keep my interest.
Kathleen
Home Front by Krisin Hannah
Poignant story which gives the reader insight into the tragedy of war's effect on soldiers' mental health.
Kelley
Simply Lies by David Baldacci
Quick paced, psychological thriller.
Sophie Lyne
Never Trust the Husband by Jessica Payne
I read an ARC of NEVER TRUST THE HUSBAND. It’s a very good psychological thriller. I liked the dual narrators (Madeline and Rebecca) and the dual timelines. Jessica Payne is an author I just discovered and her other books are now on my to-read list.
Claire
Lunar New Year Love Story by Gene Luen Yang
The art in this book was very pretty; the style was cute and fit the YA-romance genre well. There was a lot of fluidity to the art and creative page layouts that brought life to the story. The striking use of colors added a lot to the expressiveness and mood of the art, too. The magical elements were incorporated well. They provided a push to get the story going and a time limit that upped the stakes without taking too much focus away from the core of the story which was Valentina's relationships (both romantic and with her family and friends) and her concept of love. "Saint V", the main supernatural element and antagonist started out as a good mix of creepy and sad. I wondered if there was going to be more to him as the story progressed.
Jane
Deadly Yellowstone Secrets by Kari Trumbo
Tamala does not like people shooting at her favorite bear in Yellowstone. She saw poacher and he is out to kill her because she can identify him. Clint Jackson is a Park Ranger and comes up on poacher shooting at Tamala. This story keeps you reading as danger mounts. Tamala and Clint are fighting to survive. God protects them several times. I recommend Kari's book. But you will be sitting on edge a lot. There is romance, danger, suspense and more. Tamala loves researching bears but she isn't sure if she should continue after all she is enduring. Well worth the read.
Gretchen
The Lost Bookshop by Evie Woods
Loved this book! The characters were so well written. One of those that you don't want to put down. I plan on checking out her other books.
Suzanne
The Paris Daughter by Kristin Harmel
Two pregnant women meet in the park. Both Americans living in Paris with their French husbands. Juliette and Paul own a book store. Elise and Olivier are artists. Problems start when the war moves to France. Olivier is bold with his rebellious politics against the Germans, which puts Elise and their baby girl in danger.
Suzanne
Crash & Burn by Lisa Gardner
Nicky is in a terrible car accident. As she comes to, all she can think of is Vero, finding her and making sure she is okay. That's when things get weird because there is no evidence that anyone else was is the car with Nicky. Wyatt Foster of the North County Sheriffs Criminal Investigations is in charge and her husband Thomas is worried because this is Nicky's third concussion in the last three months. Her memory is mixed up and she needs rest to recover.
Joanne
Fairy Tale by Stephen King
FAIRY TALE was a great read. It had so many things going for it - both a coming-of-age tale and a wonderful fantasy world with elements from existing fairy tales but with a twist. This was my first Stephen King novel and I am happy to report that this is not a horror novel. A great novel for book clubs!
Liz
The Broken Road by Richard Paul Evans
Charles James came up the hard way. He grew up with nothing except an abusive father. Now, years later he has it all. Wealth beyond his wildest dreams and fame. But all of this cost him the one thing that mattered most to him, his wife. He doesn’t believe in God, redemption or second chances until the plane he was supposed to be on crashes killing everyone one board. Now everyone believes he is dead and he must decide what to do next. Allow them to believe the falsehood or go back to the life he so desperately desired but no longer brings him happiness. This is the first book in the Broken Road trilogy and definitely worth the read.
Darlene
The Spy Coast by Tess Gerritsen
This is the first book I've read by Tess Gerritsen. I'm not sure why that is because I thoroughly enjoyed her writing style. I loved the interesting characters as well as all the suspense. It kept propelling me to the very end! Well deserving of five stars!
Dianne
Billy Summers by Stephen King
This is an outstanding read about a paid assassin, who shoots bad people. He is betrayed and seeks revenge while writing a semi-autobiographical novel. Unlike other Stephen King books I have read.
Jane
Operation Restoration by Kari Trumbo
Story will keep you reading from moment you start. Portrays how guys in military return with issues to work through. My one brother was like that so I relate. A ranch to help people heal with wounds, whether military, human trafficking, or other issues. You get to one spot and you won't be able to put it down. Lots of danger hits the ranch, trying to get one lady back into trafficking. Recommend highly.
Debbie
Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone by Benjamin Stevenson
So many twists and turns and characters! Benjamin Stevenson wonderfully portrays the characters and the location. EVERYONE IN MY FAMILY HAS KILLED SOMEONE centers in the remote mountains of Australia during a winter snow storm where members of the Cunningham family conjure for a reunion as the prodigal Michael returns to the fold from his sojourn in prison. Michael’s brother, Ernest, had testified against Michael and drove Michael to prison. Little by little the relationships and the issues unfold in this chilling tale of deceit and greed and addiction. A frozen body of a man demands answers from each family member, but no one knows the identity of this man whose died a vicious death from inhaling ashes.
Jane
Tipsy in Love by Anne Greene
Delightful read with surprise events. Charm sets out to surprise her boyfriend in Scotland. But God has other plans. Events throw her in Rick's path. Plastic surgeon, Harry Bear, finally proposes to Charm. But her eyes have been opened. Loved this.
Gail
Chenneville by Paulette Jiles
It is 1865 when John Chenneville wakes from a coma to find the war has ended and he has received a significant head injury. When he is finally able to return home, he is met with the terrible news that his sister, her husband and baby have been murdered several months before. John is intent on revenge but must spend the better part of a year regaining his mental and physical abilities. He then heads west in pursuit of a villain who is always days or weeks ahead leaving a trail of dead bodies and misdeeds.
Lynn
The Book of Fire by Christy Lefteri
What a way to start off the new year! I absolutely loved this beautifully-written book! The descriptive scenes and wholesome characters pull you right in. The story centers around a tragic forest fire in Greece but is filled with hope, love, kindness, and self-reflection. It’s definitely a “feel good” book, but not at all the sappy kind. I highly recommend it. I have a copy of her critically acclaimed THE BEEKEEPER OF ALEPPO unread in my bookcase. Based on how much I enjoyed this one, it will now be moving towards the top of my to-read list, so that review will be coming along this year as well.
Lynn
Northwoods by Amy Pease
This is the author’s debut novel. I think she did a pretty good job and has potential. It’s a short mystery that touches on a lot of deep topics – PTSD, alcoholism, drug addiction, and big pharma. Lots of dysfunction for a little vacation town with a police force of just four people. I believe the intention was for there to be some twists/surprises along the way, but as a reader of a lot of mysteries I found them fairly predictable. I did enjoy it though – I really liked the main character and it definitely kept my attention, pulling me along to conclusion. I would recommend it.
Patricia
Payback in Death by J. D. Robb
I loved this book. Lots of suspects.
Jane
Christmas in Good Hope by Cindy Kirk
Ami owns a bakery in Good Hope, Wisconsin. Beckett is the owner of a cafe. They are both neighbors with secrets. Beckett is determined not to celebrate Christmas. Ami is asked to get him to participate in the Tour of Homes. Small towns and neighbors helping neighbors draw Ami and Beckett together. Christmas community activities draw the town together. Ami talks Beckett into decorating his home even though he doesn't want to. It all started with morning coffee together.
Jane
A Piece of My Heart by Sharon Sala
Mercy lives in a rough neighborhood. When young she was in a foster home. Her apartment is robbed and lock broken. Cops don't want her staying in apartment overnight but she has nowhere to go. A guy she doesn't know says she can sleep on his sofa. The next morning she leaves bed; he is awake. Mercy has a rare blood type. She gets urgent call that she is needed to give blood to an accident victim. There things begin to change for Mercy. She connects with the guy who was kind to her. She loves to bake and other things. I don't want to give away story so hope this wets your desire to read. Near end have Kleenex handy.
Jane
Death by Theft by Abigail Keam
First mystery by this author I have read. There is no lull anywhere. Josiah, a beekeeper, is neighbors with a friend who breeds Kentucky Derby foals. When Josiah is going to be shown the foal, it is missing. It was not weaned. Josiah 's daughter is drawn into the hunt. The security guard is found murdered. The adventure begins looking for the murderer and the foal. You are kept guessing til the reveal. A very good mystery. It will leave you wanting more.
Judy
Resurrection Walk by Michael Connelly
Good reading. I always enjoy Connelly's books and, to me, he still has it as an author. I enjoyed the courtroom scenes.
Andi
Good Taste by Caroline Scott
A cute story about a young women on a quest to write a book about genuine English cooking. Set in England 1932. While it wasn't the best book I've ever read, it was light and enjoyable.
Andi
The Hunting Party by Lucy Foley
What a ride! A great who-done-it in the lines of Agatha Christie. I hunkered down in a Michigan blizzard to read this in front of my fireplace and it was the perfect setting to read this. The book was set in the Scottish countryside - wintry - cold - murder - and a cast of characters you love and some to really hate. A solid 4 stars (I'm stingy with 5 stars). Lucy Foley does it again!
Francisca
The Stolen Lady by Laura Morelli
3.5 stars. A work of historical fiction with a dual timeline – 1939 in France as the Germans are invading, and 1479 in Florence, when Leonardo da Vinci is commissioned to paint a portrait of Lisa Gherandini. In both cases one woman takes it upon herself to ensure that the portrait remains hidden away in order to protect it. Between the two storylines, I clearly preferred the World War II one. I wasn’t sure that this novel needed the 15th century storyline. I really appreciated the extensive author notes/interviews and historic photos of the Louvre staff moving these treasures.
Jane
Love is a Mystery in Cape Disappointment, WA by Leslie Gould and Elizabeth Ludwig
Two stories in one book about the same town. Grandchildren of the first story people are in second one. Julia Warren is the niece of Uncle who keeps the lighthouse. When she arrives a day early she finds things aren't as they should be. Suspicion, false accusations and more. See if you can figure out whodunit. Romance near end. In second story, Marnie is about the Graham Clan. What tales are true and what aren't. People remember things and aren't happy. Who wants Luc gone? Both stories keep you moving forward. Really enjoyed the first one the most.
Jane
Trust My Heart by Carol Post
Two stories in one book about the same town. Grandchildren of the first story are in second one. Julia Warren is the niece of Uncle who keeps the lighthouse. When she arrives a day early she finds things aren't as they should be. Suspicion, false accusations and more. See if you can figure out whodunit. Romance near end. In Second story Marnie is about the Graham Clan. What tales are true and what aren't. People remember things and aren't happy. Who wants Luc gone? Both stories keep you moving forward. Really enjoyed the first one most.
Claire
Kill Her Twice by Stacey Lee
This had a slow start for a murder mystery, but I enjoyed the glimpse into the main characters' lives. They are quite resilient in the face of all their troubles -- the Depression, their father's illness, the impending destruction of their home.
Rose
The Magnolia Bakery Handbook: A Complete Guide for the Home Baker by Bobbie Lloyd
Gorgeous photographs combined with meticulous instructions for mouth-watering and beautiful baked treats. This would be a welcome addition to any kitchen - and a great gift for any baker. Many cakes, cupcakes, and cookies are featured in this beautiful book.
Rose
Emily Post's Etiquette, The Centennial Edition by Lizzie Post and Daniel Post Senning
Etiquette has been updated for the 21st C, including information on how to deal with texting, social media, and cell phones, in addition to the guidelines for proper behavior on everything from invitations, thank you notes, parties, and more. An essential handbook for those who wonder what the appropriate behavior/response is in various situations.
Simonne
The Personal Librarian by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray
Historical fiction based on the life of Belle DaCosta Greene, personal librarian to J. P. Morgan.
Ms. Greene was actually Belle Marion Greener, an extremely refined and educated light skinned Black woman whose mother decided to pass the family off as white in the early part of the 21st century. The book is interesting, but tedious in describing the various manuscripts, rare books and art pieces sought after by Mr Morgan via Miss Greene.
Rose
A Tidy Ending by Joanna Cannon
Linda is married to Terry, an okay husband. She cooks and cleans but wants a more glamorous life, similar to what is seen in the magazines addressed to Rebecca Finch, former tenant of their home. Linda believes that she can have a better life if she befriends Rebecca. Meanwhile there are women who are found murdered, and Terry becomes a suspect. Linda worms her way into a friendship with Rebecca. The ending may surprise you, as will a few other twists along the way.
Rose
In Her Tracks by Robert Dugoni
Book 8 in the Tracy Crosswhite (TC) series. Tracy returns from her maternity leave to find that her position is not available. She is instead offered a job as the Cold Case investigator. Rather than quit the force, Tracy recognizes that she will be doing families a service if she can solve the cold cases. A few years earlier, a little girl, Elle Chin, goes missing from a corn maze. The father, a member of the Seattle PD with a domestic abuse charge, is a suspect, but he swears innocence. The ex-wife also claims innocence. Meanwhile, there is a woman that has gone missing while out jogging. This brings Tracy's attention to the homes surrounding the trail, specifically the Sprague brothers, and a dog walker, Bibby. Another great story!
Rose
What She Found by Robert Dugoni
Tracy is continuing on the Cold Case investigation team. This time, she is investigating the disappearance of Lisa Childress, a journalist who went missing years earlier, leaving behind a husband and daughter. Lisa was working on a story investigating a drug raid on the ship Egregious. As Tracy looks into the disappearance, the Seattle PD drug task force "The Last Line" is in the spotlight. David Slocum, Harbor Master of Diamond Marina is dead. Tracy reaches out to others involved with the case, including Del and Faz. Del had been partners with Moss Gunderson when Del first joined the force. Del was intimidated by Moss and the team, and Tracy needs to dig into his involvement. Corruption at the highest levels.
Donna
The Fury by Alex Michaelides
With the synopsis posing the question, is it a murder tale or a love story, I was completely intrigued. However, with an omniscient narrator who breaks through the fourth wall, and a really slow pace, although entertaining, it was not at all what I was hoping for. .
Maureen
Tom Lake by Ann Patchett
Enjoyable.
Elizabeth
Only If You're Lucky by Stacy Willingham
Set on a college campus, we follow roommates who live in a house connected to a frat house. Margot is the narrator and used to be a very responsible girl until she met up with Lucy, Nicole, and Sloane. Lucy was especially poisonous. It was not a book that I wanted to get back to. The college antics simply dragged. A dark read. There is a huge twist at the end, but not enough to raise up my rating. Not a favorite as you can tell, but loved her book, ALL THE DANGEROUS THINGS.
Sandra
One Night With the Grump by Naomi Bloom
This is not a story about Romeo and Juliet. It involves revenge, lies, deception, over the top even silly meanness of two bickering families set on taking one another down by any means necessary. At times, I didn't really like any of the characters. Except for maybe Luna, the main female who is caught up in her feelings for Kyle, who happens to be her older sister's ex-boyfriend and her mean family pushing her to get revenge against Kyle and his father. There are many plot twists, high drama, and unexpected love bringing two people who were fighting their attraction and emotions. It's like a good old fashioned soap opera storyline that used to be on everyone's TV set during the day. Good times! Ms Bloom definitely delivers with her books.♥️
Rose
Housebroke by Jaci Burton
Hazel is broke after her ex-husband stole all her money. Luckily, her friend let her stay in her home in Orlando, along with her menagerie of dogs that she fosters, until the house could be sold. But, her house did sell, and the friend forgot to tell Hazel, so Hazel almost clobbers Lincoln (Linc) Kennedy when he comes into the house while she is there. Linc allows Hazel to stay in the house after he hears her sad story, and Hazel becomes his cook. Linc is a multi-millionaire, but Hazel thinks he is a house flipper. Linc doesn't want to tell her because money makes people change. Linc begins to fall for Hazel and her dogs, and the feeling is mutual. This is a really cute story about one woman's fight to be independent, and her man.
Rose
Recipe for a Charmed Life by Rachel Linden
Georgia has dreamed of being head chef at a Paris restaurant for years. She has a special talent, where she can identify various tastes and know exactly what a recipe needs. She speaks to Julia Child in her head, asking her for advice, and to give her guidance. Her life is great, with the sexiest chef in Paris as her boyfriend, until she opens the restaurant refrigerator to find him with another restaurant employee in a compromising embrace. To get revenge on him, she sabotages a meal for a restaurant critic. She loses her talent, not able to taste anything. In disgrace, she leaves Paris after receiving a note from her estranged mother. Georgia heads to San Juan Island, and there she finds her mother, and a brooding man, Cole.
Rose
The Burnout by Sophie Kinsella
I laughed out loud several times in this witty novel about a woman, Sasha, who is at the end of her rope with her job. She needs to get away. She tries to join a convent, but the sister calls her company and tells them she is there. Sasha's mom convinces her to go away to the beach resort where the family would go for years during Sasha's childhood. Sasha's mom tells the resort to feed Sasha kale smoothies, healthy foods, and let her do yoga all day. Sasha overhears a man, Finn, griping and complaining about things while at the resort, and he is in her space. But, once they get to know each other, they find they have a lot in common and can help each other out of their collective stress struggle. Funny, cute romance.
Rose
Class: A Memoir of Motherhood, Hunger, and Higher Education by Stephanie Land
I really enjoyed MAID, Land's first book. I wasn't as impressed with this book. It is the tale of the hardships she faced while trying to earn her degree and raising a child as a single mother. It describes fighting the system to get her husband to pay the appropriate child support and highlights how heartbreaking it is for a child to be fooled by a parent who really doesn't care (the father). However, sometimes, I felt that Land was careless. I didn't feel the emotional pull like I did in her first book. Still, a worthwhile read.
Rose
Valley Verified by Kyla Zhao
Zoe Zeng is working at Chic magazine, and feeling unfulfilled. Her articles aren't getting the attention she believes they deserve, or she doesn't get approved to write what she wants. This changes when Bill Lawrence meets her at a fashion event and offers her a job at his start-up, FitPick, in Silicon Valley. She moves across the country and tries to fit in with a group of tech savvy employees. She butts head with Lillian, the COO, thinking Lillian has it out for her. Zoe meets Damien, CTO, of the company, and he befriends her, helping her find her way in the company. Then, Bill starts acting inappropriately, and tells Zoe they have to impress the financier. Zoe begins to get suspicious, and gets her new friend, Bern, to help.
Donna
Girl in Snow by Danya Kukafka
High school student, Lucinda Hayes, is found brutally murdered in the elementary school playground. However, this tale focuses more on the effect her murder had on the small town of Broomsville, Colorado rather than the search for the murderer. Told through three different perspectives: Cameron who is obsessed with Lucinda, Jade who despises her and Russ, the police officer investigating. All three are well-depicted characters, flawed and broken. This is an eloquently-written literary mystery to be read slowly and savored.
Beth
The Lady with the Dark Hair by Erin Bartels
Erin Bartels just keeps getting better. Her books, I mean. THE LADY WITH THE DARK HAIR is her latest and her best. For most of the book, two stories are going on, one set in Europe during the late 19th century, the other in present-day East Lansing, Michigan. The stories are connected by the belief that a little known but great artist is the ancestor of the owner of an art museum in East Lansing. In 1880, Viviana, a servant, becomes a painter, first trained by her employer, an artist. When she has to leave to evade the law, she goes with the tradesman, Francisco Vella. In the present day in East Lansing, Esther runs a museum that caters in part to the great art of an ancestor, Vella. She travels to Europe and learns the true story.
Tessa
The Sandalwood Tree by Elle Newmark
3.5 stars. A good historical fiction tale framed by the British leaving India as that country gained its independence. Newmark captivated me with this dual storyline of relationships and the difficulties two people might have as a result of different cultural backgrounds, family expectations, and emotional trauma suffered by one or both of the parties.
Sandy
Since She Went Away by David Bell
As usual David Bell writes another wonderful book. Twists and turns and a surprising ending. I highly recommend this one.
Kim
The Survivors by Alex Schulman
This story follows three grown brothers as they gather to bury their mother. Their story recounts their family summers at their lakeside house. The reader is shocked to learn of a family tragedy that marked the young brothers for life. Their adventures at the lake are relatable but the family itself is so sad. It’s a great read full of surprises.
Donna
The Djinn Waits a Hundred Years by Shubnum Khan
Oh my goodness! Where do I even begin? It’s tough to find the words to describe this book so I’ll start with mesmerizing, enchanting, atmospheric and gothic. Told in dual timelines, mainly 1932 and 2014, this story is part ghost story, part love story, part mystery, and completely unputdownable. I loved everything about this gorgeously written, haunting tale.
Marsha
The Exchange by John Grisham
THE EXCHANGE follows the story of Mitch and Abby McDeere 15 years after THE FIRM. I enjoyed reading the update on their life and their twin boys. The kidnapping story of a colleague is gripping and moves swiftly along. But the ending was not as satisfying as I had hoped.
Stephanie
The Last Devil to Die: A Thursday Murder Club Mystery by Richard Osman
This latest entry in Richard Osman's Thursday Murder Club series can be read in sequence or as a stand-alone mystery. Osman continues to flesh out his characters, and there are some very poignant scenes in the novel. The "twist" is perhaps not unexpected, but it will still have you reading and enjoying the book until the end.
