This contest period's winners were Donna D. from San Antonio, TX; Linda B. from Sheridan, WY; and Susan K. from Dorset, VT. Each received a copy of BY ANY OTHER NAME by Jodi Picoult and SPIRIT CROSSING by William Kent Krueger.
Debbie
The Four Winds by Kristin Hannah
THE FOUR WINDS by Kristin Hannah sent disturbing thoughts to me. I knew about the terrible times in America starting in 1929 with the fall of the stock market and then followed by the Dust Bowl and drought in the 1930s. Kristin Hannah drives home the utter despair and hopelessness of American families who struggled to feed and clothe their families, and the ruthlessness of the land owners and government. Reading THE FOUR WINDS, made me think of slavery before the Civil War. At least the slaves were fed and clothed. Can you imagine picking cotton all day and only receiving $.75? These unfortunate individuals were not paid in cash, but were given checks that could only be used in the company store with a loss of 10% for that privilege.
Debbie
Zero Days by Ruth Ware
After reading ZERO DAYS by Ruth Ware, I am really skeptic of utilizing the Internet. Also, too many individuals seem to hack into different programs. Big Brother appears to be watching our every move. No secret stays hidden from the Big Eye that can ruin any individual. Jacintha (Jack) and her husband, Gabe, work as security penetration specialists. Gabe handles the technical end and Jack trips through the physical aspects of the job. Then after one job, Jack returns home to find Gabe dead and his throat slit. Not long after calling and speaking with the police, Jack becomes the prime suspect. Jack begins a search for the killer and the reason, but must evade the police. A compelling run through Jack’s attempt to find justice.
Agnes
Hamnet by Maggie O’Farrell
This novel imagines the life of Shakespeare’s eleven-year-old son, Hamnet. It is fifteenth-century Britain at the time of the plague. Most of the story centers around his mother, Agnes - her love for her husband and children, and her relationships with her extended family. She’s a bit eccentric, an herbalist. Schooled in the natural world, she makes her own remedies for neighbors who seek out her expertise. The story is beautifully written by one of my all-time favorite writers, Maggie O’Farrell. She weaves a little-known history into a very moving tale that comes full circle in its ending.
Karen
The Briar Club by Kate Quinn
Another winner from Kate Quinn. Wonderful story with historical detail and events.
Sharron
American Dirt by Jeanine Cummins
Found it tedious. Heard these stories before except the drug lord hunting down Lydia the main character. Did finish hoping to learn something new.
Jane
Boss Lady by Alli Frank and Asha Youmans
This is the first book I've read by these authors and I can't wait to read more of them. Being a transportation airport employee is not a cushy job for sure, but Toni does this for a living to take care of her almost teenage twin daughters (Lou and Coco) since her husband left her to find himself. A few years later, he comes back and wants back in their life. She's also trying to be a budding entrepreneur by making lotions, which she hasn't gotten the hang of yet. Toni has two best friends, Krish and Zwena, who work at the airport too at different jobs. I'd love to be friends with them too.
Wanda
Brooklyn by Colm Toibin
A wonderful story of a young girl who is trying to find a place in her life - wanting to work when in that era it was somewhat uncommon. Her struggles and thoughts when she comes to America from Ireland, and finds what she thinks is true love. A touching story, good read. I had read LONG ISLAND prior to this one. Perked my interest to read BROOKLYN.
Jackie
The Last Murder at the End of the World by Stuart Turton
First, I was grateful for the main characters referenced at the beginning of the book. That was very helpful. The story is not what I usually read but it was well done. Very imaginative future world that has you trying to understand how humans got this way. Twist of reality vs. who’s being truthful and who is really trying to help save the human race. Turton is masterful at never writing the same type of genre in any of his books. Each one is a surprise and nothing like his last.
Karen
All the Colors of the Dark by Chris Whitaker
Friendship. Loss. Healing.
Sandra
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon
Riveting read.
Rosa
The Authenticity Project by Claire Pooley
This was a fun read. Julian Jessop, a 79-year-old artist who lives alone, asks the question: "What would happen if you shared the truth?" He poses this in the beginning of a green journal, which he leaves in Monica's Cafe after he first writes his own truth in the book. He titles it "The Authencity Project". Thus begins a chain reaction in which strangers meet one another and become friends, all because of the green book. I laughed out loud and empathized with many of the characters. Very entertaining.
Carol
Black Bird Oracle by Deborah Harkness
It was wonderful to get back into this world with these characters. I’ve miss them. Deborah Harkness writing is so enjoyable, and the imagination to create these stories is unfathomable to me. I really enjoy reading her books. That being said, I was a bit disappointed in this book. It's all about the witches of course, but not much about the vampires this time around, and I was disappointed in that. Lastly, the ending to me was lacking. I waited a long time for this book and read it voraciously and was kind of disappointed in the climax if you wanna call it that. Anyway, regardless, it was an enjoyable story.
Carol
The Undermining of Twyla and Frank by Megan Bannen
This book is just a delightful cozy read. In a futuristic world with interesting beings and adventures and always a wonderful romance that under lies the whole story. In this one we have dragons and science and history and love. It’s just a wonderfully fun, fast, easy read I really enjoyed it. When will she come out with the third book?
Judie
The Lion Women of Tehran by Marjan Kamali
Two girls meet when they are seven; Ellie is upper class who has been displaced with her mother to a lower class neighborhood after her father died, and the other is Homa who lives with her loving family. Their worlds could not be more different. Ellie is lonely in her new circumstances and her mother is bitter at her change in fortune. When Ellie meets Homa her world opens up as she is enveloped into Homas warm family and follows Homa who loves adventure and risk taking behavior. When Ellie moves back to her upper class neighborhood, the two girls struggle to see each other and lose touch. When they meet again as adults they find their bond of friendship and love is as strong as ever. The Iranian politics is the background story.
Francisca
The Silence Between Us by Alison Gervais
3.5 stars. This is a lovely young-adult romance with the added inclusion of one partner with a significant disability. Maya is smart and tenacious but she just can’t believe that a hearing person and a deaf person can form a true relationship. In many ways, the relationship between Beau and Maya is a typical teen romance, with missteps followed by genuine gestures that show caring, alongside all the usual teen drama of a senior year in high school.
LisaMarie
A Talent for Murder by Peter Swanson
It’s twisty, thrilling story that keeps you on the edge of your seat for sure. The ending was a wow - I didn’t see that coming - when you thought you had it worked out.
Kim
The Lion Women of Tehran by Marjan Kamali
Very interesting book! Helps me understand my Persian hairdresser and her fear for her niece still living in Tehran. Also, it is a great book about the lasting bonds of friendship.
Linda
Fox Creek by William Kent Kruger
A great book that warns of problems we will be facing as water shortages continue and water becomes the most sought after commodity. A plot has been discovered of a nefarious scheme between Canada and the United States to divert water from the north of Canada and carried via pipeline for use in irrigation and industry but would flood much of tribal land. Cork O’Connor helps Henry Meloup get this information out to the media.
Maureen
Such Charming Liars by Karen M. McManus
Fun, fast-paced young adult heist thriller. This one has the same feel of her other books. Fun banter and lovable characters that are full of flaws. Check it out if you enjoy young adult books.
Luella
The Weight of Silence by Gregg Olsen
Good read. Involves a heartbreaking crime. Takes you by surprise. Did not expect that ending.
Kylie
James by Percival Everett
A brilliant telling (I won't say "re-telling" because it's a wildly different story) of THE ADVENTURES OF HUCKLEBERRY FINN from the perspective of Jim, the escaping enslaved man who travels with Huck on his journey up the Mississippi River. I enjoyed it thoroughly, though there were a few moments that got a bit preachy. The book departed quite a but from the source material, but I thought that was good. The ending was also a bit bizarre, and, like HUCK FINN, seemed frantic in its rush to the conclusion. Still, an overall enjoyable read, with brilliant prose.
MH
Infinite Country by Patricia Engel
This book reminded me of AMERICAN DIRT, which was better. At least with this book, I didn’t feel afraid for the characters. In it, a man and his family are separated: the wife and two children in the U.S., the man and the youngest daughter in Columbia.
Laurie
All the Colors of the Dark by Chris Whitaker
An absolute gem of a book. A mystery, thriller and coming-of-age story all wrapped into one. I couldn't put it down.
Linda
The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain
I read this classic in preparation for reading Percival Everett's novel, JAMES. Huck is a mischievous young lad looking for adventure. He gets into trouble but is mostly good-hearted (despite having a bully of a father). That's the fun part of the book. But Twain also writes of deeply troubling cruelty towards enslaved Black people. I can understand why readers might find his treatment of this subject offensive. Even so, I appreciate this great American classic.
Norma
The Light Through the Leaves by Glendy Vanderah
The story begins with a bang. Distracted, Ellis leaves her baby unattended at a forest park and drives away without her. When she returns, Viola is gone - was she abducted? In a very remote area of Washington, a young girl named Raven is told by her mother to keep her distance from society and hold onto their earthly spirits. The reader assumes Raven is the abducted Viola but wonders how. This one with its setting descriptions and flawed characters will stay with me for a long time.
Linda
James by Percival Everett
I'm so glad that Everett wrote this book. I read THE ADVENTURES OF HUCKLEBERRY FINN by Mark Twain before this one. In Everett's rebuttal, "Jim" is a smart, literate, defiant Black man. He's an enslaved runway traveling with Huck. He tells of experiences that are terrifying and brutal while Huck's adventures are rather humorous.
Nancy
The Rent Collector by Camron Wright
One of my book club's world-traveling members chose this book. She had heard about the poor and desperate people living in shanties the dumps of Cambodia, so that they could scour them for items that they could then sell. It is a hard life, especially for the couple followed in the book. While it is fiction, it is based on real people and events, and provides a good look at how the desperately poor live in terrible conditions with sickness, poverty and, surprisingly, hope. At times very sad, the book is uplifting.
Donna
Lone Wolf by Gregg Hurwitz
Every one of the ORPHAN X books have been wonderful reads, but I especially love the way Hurwitz has developed Evan's character along the way. Most action packed books are just that: action. His character seems like a real person. There are always interesting people and places in every book, and I love the way Evan Smoak is trying to become a "normal" person with "normal" feelings.
Joanne
Middle of the Night by Riley Sager
Wow. I love it when you don’t correctly guess the ending in advance. Wonderful characterization and plot.
Shannon
The Bee Sting by Paul Murray
I was enjoying this book until the ending. Without any spoilers, it was just a real let down to me, especially because it was quite a long book. It could have been about 200 pages shorter.
Elizabeth
The Secret Life of Albert Entwistle by Matt Cain
I mostly listened to this book. It was a feel-good story and I could predict what would happen next, but it did tell an important story about how suppressed gay men were treated in the not-too-distant past.
Jane
Scandals and Mercies by Kathleen Rouser
Secrets come out after years of being hid. God has a way of bringing to light what is hid. Nora was taken from her home and raised by a wealthy aunt and uncle. She is overprotected, but one day it all falls apart and love wins. A home for unwed mothers set a fire by an arson. James is a reporter determined to uncover the truth. He learns a truth about his own past when his aunt comes.
Jane
Lethal Literature by Kym Roberts
Charlie Rae and her dad run a bookstore. Secrets begin to unravel when person helping with literary drive to benefit foster care system is found dead. This is a Book Barn Mystery, the first one I've read. Was hard to put down.
Barbara
Mind Games by Nora Roberts
In a departure from her typical storylines, Roberts creates the family dynamics of Thea and Rem, children whose parents are brutally murdered. Taken in by their adoring grandmother, Lucy, who lives on a farm, they deal with their grief. Part one had me tearing up more than once. Part 2, as grownups, they deal with the intriguing character trait of Thea's "second sight.", which the evil murderer also has. Turmoil and tension of their "mind games" follow. Depth is added with a love interest for Thea, plus the various "loves" of dogs, farm life, and crafts. The expected "spice" between Thea and neighbor Ty is minimized in this Roberts novel, but as expected, the strong female protagonist is up for the challenge.
Judy
The Ascent by Adam Plantinga
While I enjoyed the book, I could have done without the escessive profanity. But since it's based in a prison I suppose this is a part of real life in a prison.
Kelley
The Optimist's Daughter by Eudora Welty
Could imagine the Southern drawls as I read. Such interesting characters and Southern dialogue.
Sharon
The Glasssmaker by Tracvy Chevalier
I love glass and this was a delightful look at the families who made Murano glass, their struggles, experiments, accomplishments and the interaction of the product and the people. And a great story to boot!
Sharon
An Art Lover's Guide to Paris and Murder by Diane Freeman
George has been called to Paris by his Aunt Julia to look into the death of a friend, renowned artist Paul Ducasse. Accompanied by his wife Francis (whose sleuthing abilities equal that of George), the two encounter more than one mystery, more than one death and more than one attempted murder and a lot of suspects.
Nancy
One Perfect Couple by Ruth Ware
This was an absolute page-turner from beginning to end. The concept was a clever, take-off of reality game shows. The characters were very well developed. I love murder mysteries, and this book kept me guessing till the end. I have recommended it to many friends.
Rose
A First Time for Everything by Dan Santat
Dan Santat is an award-winning author of children's books, and now has written a National Book Award winner (category: young adults). This is a heartwarming story of an awkward young boy who has embarrassing experiences in middle school. Then, he is given an opportunity, prior to entering high school, to take a trip to Europe with other 13 and 14-year old students. While anxious about the adventure, he learns a lot about himself on this 3 week adventure. Told in a graphic novel format, this book is a very easy read. Often humorous, it is a real look at a young man coming of age. I loved it!
Myrna
Tom Lake by Ann Patchett
Very delightful. Also enjoyed Patchett's THESE PRECIOUS DAYS.
Rose
Fruit of the Dead by Rachel Lyon
A modern retelling of the myth of the love story of Persephone and Hades, and the goddess Demeter wanting her daughter to return home. In this, Cory is a young camp counselor. Rolo, a wealthy pharmaceutical CEO, is entranced by her beauty. He asks her to come home with him. Since Cory feels that her mother, Emer, head of an agricultural NGO, is unhappy with her choices, against her better judgment she accepts his offer. But, her mother, feels an emotional cry for help, and begins searching for her. But, can Cory avoid the magnetic pull of Rolo's love, and his drugs? This is a story of obsession, drugs, sex, and a mother's love. Interesting retelling.
Rose
Enchanted Hill by Emily Bain Murphy
ENCHANTED HILL is the estate that Truman Byrd built with his now estranged wife, Mabel. She has hired Cora to find Truman in a compromising position with his lover, Clementine, so Mabel can have a more lucrative divorce. As Cora is undercovered as a maid, she sees Jack, a former prisoner she helped escape from the prison where her father worked. She needs to understand why he is there, if he really was responsible for the art theft years earlier, and the murder of a prison guard. She also has feelings for Jack, and tries to ignore them. This book went on much too long for me, although I did like the "puzzle" of the estate that the duo tried to decipher.
Sharon
The Women by Kristin Hannah
Although I was alive during the Vietnam era, I was naive and oblivious to the way our military was treated by those at home and how futile the war was. Frankie’s story and the PTSD she suffered was made real. I gave it 4 stars because the ending seemed contrived. I am glad that I read it, however. I learned much from reading it.
Helen
First Frost by Craig Johnson
Walt Longmire, before he was sheriff, runs into trouble in a tiny California town. Walt and the Cheyenne Nation are on their way to serve during the Vietnam War when they have to confront the ghosts of a war from a different time. As always Craig Johnson delivers with the storyline, knowledge and reverence for the past, and characters that keep you involved. Good story.
Marilyn
The Measure by Nikki Erlick
Such a great concept plot. When everyone 22 years old and above in the world receives a small box with a string that tells their life length, what do they do? Open it or not. What are the ramifications?
Rose
Constant Companion: Your Practical Path to Real Interaction with God by Ami Loper
Ami Loper discusses ways to have a true relationship with God. She uses examples in her life and in scripture. She recommends using a journal, along with your bible, to look for ways to deepen and enrich this experience. The book is written in 4 sections, with easy to follow chapters. It is practical advice for anyone who is looking to deepen their relationship and faith.
Rose
Saint Richard Parker by Merlin Franco
A humorous adventure across Southeast Asia, along with a search for enlightenment. After Richard Parker loses his job, he is lost, floundering. He seeks advice and is told to search for it in the East. So, he travels to Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, among other locales. While in all these places, he joins Tinder, and goes to "spas" in search of sexual enlightenment. But, he realizes that enlightenment won't come from sexual relations, but rather from spirituality.
He has some very odd adventures, meets many people, and has lots of interesting meals. Some of the dialog and interactions are quite humorous.
Sheree
Familiaris by David Wroblewski
I thought I needed to read his first installment of the book THE STORY OF EDGAR SAWTELLE first before reading this book, but it should have been the other way around. This book is long and it took me getting the book two times from the library to finish it. I think the length of the book will keep a lot of people from reading it, but I felt it was well worth it. I would have liked a little more history on some characters and less on others. I thoroughly enjoyed both books. Now I want a dog!! A Sawtelle dog!!
Karen
Has Anyone Seen Charlotte Salter? by Nicci French
First book I've read by them (husband wife writing team). Very good mystery set in England - spans over 30 years.
Donna
The Unraveling by Vi Keeland
I gave this book three stars because there was too much unnecessary detail of what the narrator is thinking in the beginning. I almost stopped reading it. But I kept plugging along, sometimes scanning over the drivel. Once the narrator's bad decisions became more interesting, I needed to keep reading to find out what happens. The ending had a good twist. It's an easy read - good for a weekend.
Donna
Has Anyone Seen Charlotte Salter? by Nicci French
This book pulled me in from the beginning with well developed characters, dysfunctional family dynamics, and an interesting mystery. The descriptions of the landscape made me feel like I was there and could feel the cold, same as the characters. Recommend this book.
Denise
Whiskey Tender by Deborah Jackson Taffa
This raw, honest memoir takes you a journey of struggles being caught between two cultures. As a mixed tribe native girl and being assimilated into the White mans’ world. Family dynamics play a large part of the memoir. Her siblings deal with their heritage and assimilation in different ways. She explores the consequences and trauma attached to their choices and lifestyles while trying to find her own identity. You see first-hand the loss of cultural identity at the hands of the White mans’ empty promises.
Sherry
The Little Liar by Mitch Albom
Loved this book.
Shelley
The Five-Star Weekend by Elin Hilderbrand
The author does a fabulous job describing locations and people so that they can easily be visualized. But the story is fluffy and not compelling for me. I have realized that at this point in my life I just do not want to read chic-lit books that do not teach me anything.
Kim
Firekeeper’s Daughter by Angeline Boulley
This novel is a revealing story of the continual violence against Native women. The story follows Daunis, whose acceptance at university is upended as she is asked to help unravel the mysterious happenings within the Res. The story is one of secrets, family, respect, traditions and the duty towards elders. It is heart-wrenching and a page-turner.
Linda
The Nature of Disappearing by Kimi Cunningham Grant
Emlyn sees herself as a pathetic loser but she is a strong, courageous woman who goes into Idaho’s wilderness to search for her best friend. She goes with a man she had previously been involved with until he left her in the wilderness. She would have frozen if she hadn’t been found by a forest ranger. As she and Tyler find Janessa, she senses something is not right. It seems Tyler is not the person she thought he was and now they are all together in the unforgiving wilderness.
KAY
The Glassmaker by Tracy Chevalier
Really enjoyed the centuries sliding by almost in the background, keeping the same main characters and family progressing through their own lives at the speed of a generation for the main plot. Took me back to my visits to Venice and nearby islands. Interesting presentation of the story.
KAY
Leaving by Roxana Robinson
So well written, the outcome pulled at my heartstrings.
KAY
My Sister's Grave by Robert Dugoni
Really like following Tracey Crosswhite investigations based in Seattle. Her sister went missing 20 years before, but now a body has been discovered and she is driven to find out what happened and who killed her.
KAY
In the Clearing by Robert Dugoni
Tracy Crosswhite, a Seattle investigator, is charged with finding out what happened 40 years ago to a Native American high school student who was killed. Why was this cold case labeled a "suicide" but was never resolved for the investigating detective in charge of the case.
KAY
Anita De Monte Laughs Last by Xochitl Gonzalez
Anita De Monte was an aspiring artist in 1985 who ended up dying from a falling out the window of a high-rise building. Her husband insisted that it was suicide. But was it? Raquel is intrigued by her story and art while finishing up her third year of art history studies in New York City. She finds many similarities of feeling like the outsider in her own life and struggles to fit in.
KAY
The Women by Kristin Hannah
Outstanding story of the Vietnam era and the women who played an important role on the front lines but excluded from recognition of their contributions to the war. This is a story that needs to be told about how veterans were treated disgracefully on returning home. Highly recommend this book and story as a topic for book clubs.
KAY
The Trapped Girl by Robert Dugoni
Seattle detective, Tracy Crosswhite, is one of my favorite characters. She doesn't let go of the mystery of the identity of the woman found in the crab pot in the Puget Sound waters. I especially like local authors and locales!
KAY
End of Story by A. J. Finn
What happened to a reclusive author's first wife and son who disappeared many years ago? He has invited an aspiring author to write about his life. Just to let you know, there is a surprise ending that I didn't guess!
KAY
After Annie by Anna Quindlen
I couldn't get past the anguish of Annie's death in the first 165 pages and its effect on family and friends. Enough already!
KAY
Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt
Such a delightful story. Enjoyed the many characters and how they eventually got together for a satisfactory ending! Very upbeat.
KAY
Finding Margaret Fuller by Allison Pataki
I knew nothing about Margaret Fuller until reading this novel based on her life. Since reading this novel, I have discovered many references to her life and writing. I always wonder how I could not have known who she was and her importance in literary circles of the time. Love biographical novels.
Janis
The Bucket List by Rachel Hanna
Great concept - Monica leaves her best friend, Jill (an anxious, never try anything person) her estate - IF she will complete a bucket list she has made for her. Great story of their friendship, how they know each other, how you can take chances and begin to live. Easy, quick read - fun and delightful!
Janis
The Women by Kristin Hannah
Wonderful story of nurses and other women serving in the Vietnam war. So well written and an accurate picture of what went on. Nice to see this POV and recognize these women. Highly recommend.
Rose
Middle of the Night by Riley Sager
3.5 rounded to 4 stars. Ethan Marsh is haunted by the events of 30 years ago. He and his best friend, Billy, were camping in Ethan's yard, but during the night Billy went missing. Now, 30 years later, Ethan can't sleep and he thinks Billy is sending him messages. Ethan recalls the things they did that day and wonders if any of that had a hand in the disappearance. Many of the houses on Hemlock Circle are still occupied by the families from their youth and all remember the disappearance. This is a haunting tale of neighborhood secrets. Initially, I was concerned that this would be a supernatural tale, but I was surprised by the story.
Tessa
The Color Purple by Alice Walker
5 stars and a heart! Walker’s choice to write the book as a series of letters (or diary entries) really gives the reader the chance to hear Celie. There are moments of despair, of sorrow, and a very few of joy. Celie is an extraordinary woman and watching her grow from a scared girl to a confident, in-charge woman is fascinating and uplifting.
Claudia
Eruption by James Patterson and Michael Crichton
Volcanos in Hawaii are always erupting but not like this one. All the readings and data show that this one is really going to be big. To complicate the problem of controlling the lava, which is almost impossible, it can't come close to the army station. The ice tube on the army station contains canisters of a liquid that could kill all life on earth. The scientists and army are working against time to find a solution.
Minna
A Visit From the Goon Squad by Jennifer Egan
Very well written. Jumps between time periods and narrators but always with purpose.
Linda
The Only Plane in the Sky: An Oral History of 9/11 by Garrett M. Graff
This book was fantastic and I cried through many of the chapters and many of the individual oral comments given. The maps of the towers, the Pentagon, etc. were of great value to me during my reading. The paths of the airlines also helped tremendously. I've read the entire book four times to help me be able to lead the discussion of the book with my book club. I hope to read a couple of other books by Graff and hope to lead discussions of those books as well.
Terry
The Midnight Library by Matt Haig
Very thought-provoking. Do you have regrets? Is there a life you wish you had lead?
Rose
Abide With Me by Elizabeth Strout
Tyler Caskey marries Lauren, a feisty young woman. When he becomes a reverend, they move to New England where he is pastor of a small community. The community doesn't think much of Lauren, and after her death Tyler struggles to raise his daughters and care for the needs of his church members. A touching story of a man's, and a community's, search for holiness.
Rose
Back to the Garden by Laurie R. King
3.5 rounded to 4 stars. Raquel Laing is assigned to handle some cold cases when a new case intersects with her older ones. The Gardener Estates is being renovated and one of the art statues is over a grave. These bones must be identified. Meanwhile, Raquel is working on The Highwayman case, and these bones may be one of his victims. The Highwayman had been preying on young women and burying them in concrete. But, as Raquel digs deeper into the Gardener history, she learns about Rob and the commune he created, along with his lover. After an event at the property, she is missing, and so is his brother, Fort. When Raquel learns the truth, she recognizes that the danger is still present. A good mystery.
Dana
A Solitude of Wolverines by Alice Henderson
This is a beautifully-written mystery. A multitude of acres surround a deserted ski lodge and all have been donated to a land trust. The protagonist accepts a last-minute assignment to determine if wolverines inhabit the area. The imagery of this beautiful setting creates a longing to visit the mountains. Multiple animals are described as they go about their daily lives, including wolverines. I so enjoyed looking up some of the less familiar names of animals and vegetation and felt like I, too, was on a grand adventure in the amazing landscape. The mystery unfolds gradually but there is always an intrigue which kept me turning the page. The conclusion was satisfying and not predictable. The journey, the protagonist and the setting. Wow!
Jeanne
Husbands & Lovers by Beatriz Williams
HUSBANDS & LOVERS by Beatriz Williams is a well-written, captivating historical fiction novel. It is the story of two different women, Mallory and Hannah, who live entirely different lives, yet their lives become intertwined and woven together over a deeply hidden family secret. The author never disappoints me with any of her books and this is no exception. She knocked it out of the park with her excellent character development, her outstanding talent of writing and storytelling in a way that makes you feel as though you have been transported and are on a journey with both Mallory and Hannah.
Lana
Friday Night Lights by H. G. Bissinger
An oldie, but a goodie! Excellent expose on the oversized role of football in Texas high schools and sports in America.
Lana
The Quiet Damage by Jesselyn Cook
I read this book in hopes of learning how to respond to those who subscribe to the scree that is the realm of QAnon. My husband and I have been close friends of a couple for 50 years, yet we no longer feel we know them. The book is riveting read presenting what could be described as case studies of individuals who went down the "rabbit hole." Although none of cited individuals were similar to our friends, I was able to reach some understanding of how they came to embrace this delusionary thinking. The author skillfully shows that how to maintain communication with the "anons" while at the same time maintaining boundaries. It's an outstanding book for the time we live in.
Lana
The Hollows by Jess Montgomery
An enticing mystery set in Appalachian Ohio in the 1920s in which a female sheriff investigates the death of an elderly woman patient of an insane asylum. Overtones of racism, organized labor, illicit love, and apparitions add to the book.
Donna
What Happened to Nina? by Dervla McTiernan
Nina and Simon have been together for four years, the perfect couple, madly in love. When they leave together for a weekend at his family’s second house in Stowe, Vermont, why is Simon the only one to return home? Told from different perspectives, those of Nina’s parents, those of Simon’s.parents, and also those of Detective Matthew Wright, this tale had me imagining how frightening and heartbreaking it would be to be in this situation. This thriller reads like a true crime novel. In fact, if you’re familiar with the Gabby Petito tragedy, you’ll recognize some similarities, yet this is a totally unpredictable fictional story. If you enjoy an unputdownable thriller, then this one’s for you.
Deb
All the Colors of the Dark by Chris Whitaker
This book was amazing and yet heartbreaking! I loved the way Chris developed the characters and how they were so loving and connected to each other. The ending was a happy one, which made my heart happy! I loved it!
Mary
I Cheerfully Refuse by Leif Enger
This book has many layers - a grieving man’s quest for his wife in the not so distant future.
Sonia
The Daughter of Fair Verona by Christina Dodd
Liked the premise, fun to read. Will recommend to fellow book club members.
Pattie
Lenny Marks Gets Away With Murder by Kerryn Mayne
I absolutely loved the writing. I savored it. It was funny, and I didn’t see some of the twists coming. When she gets dressed, she said her shins hurt. So clever.
Sheila
Absolution by Alice McDermott
It resonates with personal truth in the lush setting of Vietnam. The past is remembered brilliantly. I’m surprised it is not more popular.
Susan
Agony Hill by Sarah Stewart Taylor
Guilty pleasure. I like reading books that take place in Vermont. First in a series.
Judy
The Memory Library by Kate Storey
Ella comes home to help her mother after she has fallen. She learns more about her mom after a falling out years ago.
Susan
Knife by Salman Rushdie
Terrible stabbing, long recovery.
Diane
We Begin at the End by Chris Whitaker
The story drew me in from the beginning. Many twists and turns. Author did a great job of developing the characters. Brought out a variety of emotions.
Lynn
The Day Tripper by James Goodhand
Thought-provoking time travel - what little changes in our lives could change its trajectory?
Karen
One Perfect Couple by Ruth Ware
It kept me on the edge of my seat, turning pages as fast as I could read! It was an exciting read - not knowing what was coming next. Lots if twists and turns made for a gripping thriller.
Susan
The Wide Wide Sea by Hampton Sides
I enjoyed learning about Captain James Cook and his final voyage. Cook’s interactions with indigenous people was interesting and in some instances different from his interactions in his previous two voyages. I would highly recommend this book.
Robin
The Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese
Fascinating look at an unfamiliar culture. Also learned things about Hansen's disease, or leprosy, that were surprising. Love a book that teaches me!! A bit too long, but so well written that I never became bored with it. This was a favorite of my book club and it generated three hours of discussion!!
Paula
Jackie by Dawn Tripp
This was a well-written historical fiction about Jackie Onassis, a women I have always admired. It did sadden me. I knew Jack Kennedy was a womanizer, but I did not know that in other ways he also treated her badly. He did change after the death of baby Patrick but soon after he was assassinated. Jackie always loved Jack and missed him forever. It was a great read with a lot of history. Jackie did so much for him that benefited his career, plus being a wonderful First Lady. I recommend this book.
Gretchen
This Tender Land by William Kent Krueger
My lunch group just discussed this book. A coming-of-age for a group of children from different walks of life. A journey reminiscence of THE ADVENTURES OF HUCKLEBERRY FINN and THE ODDESSY and Homer's ODYSSEY - adventure after adventure.
Gayle
Camp Zero by Michelle Min Sterling
It was an interesting concept but it did not hold my interest. I struggled to finish it.
Rose
We All Want Impossible Things by Catherine Newman
This book has all the feels. A woman goes through as she witnesses her best friend of 42 years dying of ovarian cancer. Ash has loved Edi since they met as children, and she has also loved Edi's entire family. But now that Edi is dying of cancer, she is having trouble dealing with it and tries to escape by making poor decisions (sex with multiple partners). Ash does offer for Edi to come to a hospice near her so that Edi's husband and young son don't have to witness the daily descent. This was hard for me to read since my sister died from ovarian cancer, but I also felt the anguish that Ash and all of Edi's loved ones were feeling. A very emotional book.
Lori
The Memory Library by Kate Storey
A mother shows her unconditional love for her estranged daughter by gifting a book to the memory library every year on her birthday. The library helps them to reconcile. Heartwarming story.
Rose
Without Saying Goodbye by Laura Jarratt
3.5 rounded to 4 stars. This is billed as a thriller, and while it does have some thriller vibes, to me it is more of a female bonding and encouragement novel. Lily, along with her 4-year-old child, is running from an abusive husband, Danny. She feels unworthy to be a mother after listening to his verbal jeers. Cerys is a middle-aged mom who is dealing with an empty nest and a distant relationship from her husband. She feels unneeded and unloved. She contemplates death before meeting Lily. Together these two women heal each other. A true testament to building women up through encouragement and love.
Cheryl
James by Perceval Everett
Everett retells THE ADVENTURES OF HUCKLEBERRY FINN from Jim’s perspective, giving him even more gravitas than the original novel.
Jean
Read Herring Hunt by V. M. Burns
Very fun cozy mystery series with an unusual writing style. The narrator is writing a book so it is a book within a book.
Dianne
Daughters of Shandong by Eve J. Chung
Fascinating, terrifying and emotional journey of a Chinese woman who sought to escape her communist takeover of China. As a member of a family who owned land, she was labeled as an enemy of the people. Alone with her children, she fought to keep her family safe and alive.
laura
The Forgotten Names by Mario Escobar
In Lyon, France, a group of unlikely allies work together together to save the lives of 106 Jewish children. Well-written historical fiction based a true story and the research by a young woman to find the children
Annmarie
All the Colors of the Dark by Chris Whitaker
Great story and character development.
Pam
Middletide by Sarah Crouch
Elijah reluctantly returns to his small town after his writing career fails. He gradually gets his life together, living off the land and working as a garage mechanic. But when the town's beautiful young doctor is found hanging from a tree near Elijah's property, he becomes a suspect in her murder. Someone is very cleverly framing him, using the plot of his failed novel. Twisty, propulsive, and totally engaging.
Pam
Sleeping Giants by Rene Denfeld
4.5 rounded up. Adopted as a baby, Amanda had always felt different. When she finds papers showing she had an older brother she goes in search of him hoping to understand herself better. To her horror, she learns that he drowned after running away from an institution for disturbed children. Something about the situation is just not right and Amanda is determined to discover what really happened. This is my second Rene Denfeld novel, and I found it just as powerful and emotionally resonant as THE CHILD FINDER.
Pam
Husbands & Lovers by Beatriz Williams
4.5 rounded up. I was riveted by this dual timeline novel of two women tied by a mysterious heirloom snake bracelet. In WWII, Cairo, an ex countess from Hungary who has lost her husband and children, is now married to a British diplomat. In contemporary New England, a struggling young artist and single mom struggles to help her son find a donor for a critically needed kidney transplant. Filled with romance, heartbreak, family secrets and deception, I couldn't put this novel down!
Pam
A Daughter of Fair Verona by Christina Dodd
In fair Verona, Romeo and Juliet's eldest daughter Rosie (yes, the famous Shakespearean couple survived!) is determined to avoid marriage. Strong, capable and fiercely independent, she is already an "old" spinster at 20. When a perspective suitor is murdered, Rosie is the prime suspect. Clever, witty, and fun re-imagining of one of Shakespeare's most most loved families. The first in a new mystery series.
Pam
The Great Divide by Cristina Henriquez
Wonderful historical fiction about a subject I knew little about -- the building of the Panama Canal. Told through the eyes of a diverse group of unsung heroes who labored and suffered through the building of the canal: a teen girl who stowed away on a ship from Barbados to find work and send money home to pay for her sister's surgery, an American scientist and his wife hoping to discover a way to eliminate malaria, and local people whose lives and property were jeopardized by the construction.
Karla
The Mysterious Mrs. Nixon by Heath Hardage Lee
Solid biography of Pat Nixon.
Nancy
The Paris Daughter by Kristin Harmel
I’ve read other books by this author and always enjoy them.
Chris
The Terraformers by Annalee Newitz
Very good, easy read.
Susan
Long Island Comprise by Taffy Brodesser-Akner
Poses some real questions of the advantages of being born into money vs. having to work, succeed, and earn it. Disturbing but often hilarious. Spot-on with characterizations of family dynamics, loved the Yiddishkeit.
Glynda
The Briar Club by Kate Quinn
I loved this book set in the 1950s and that all the main characters were based on real people or events. Great book for book clubs. Highly recommend!
Vicki
The God of the Woods by Liz Moore
This book keeps you wondering until the end. Even though there are two storylines, they come together beautifully. Make sure to start it early in the day, because you will not want to put it down until you have finished it.
Susan
The Paris Daughter by Kristin Harmel
This book brought me back to the beautiful city of Paris, but it also opened my eyes of the horror of war and what these two families went through. Don’t miss out on this book.
Pat
The River We Remember by William Kent Krueger
A very compelling story told after a body is discovered in the river. Krueger writes a book you cannot put down.
Nina
The Teacher by Freida McFadden
Nice character development with a suspenseful ending made this book enjoyable.
Gretchen
The Black Bird Oracle by Deborah Harkness
A great read! #5 in the series. Can't wait for the next one. Because I am going to be 87 soon I worry about lasting long enough to get the next book in the series and maybe more. There are so many good books and time is running out to read them all.
Leslie
The Wedding People by Alison Espach
Heartfelt but fun, frothy summer read.
Bliss
The Berry Pickers by Amanda Peters
This novel grabbed me from the beginning. It is intense and heartbreaking. One of the best books I have read this year.
Elizabeth
Crow Talk by Eileen Garvin
A wonderful story, beautifully told. I loved learning about bird behavior, especially about the social nature of crows and how intelligent they are. The characters' stories were very moving. I highly recommend this book!
Jeanne
Swan Song by Elin Hilderbrand
SWAN SONG by Elin Hilderbrand is Book 4 and the author’s last novel in the Nantucket series. It is well written with good character development and a suspense-filled story that is filled with drama, twists and turns and surprises. The ending both shocked and surprised me and one I never saw coming.
Jan
The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett
Really enjoyed the story. The characters were from all walks of life. Without giving away anything, I liked how the twins could live two totally different lives.
Jan
Burial Rites by Hannah Kent
One of the best nonfiction books I have read. Takes place in Iceland in the 1800s. The characters are well developed and the feel of the land is so well done.
Jan
First Lie Wins by Ashley Elston
Mystery/suspense right from the start. I was captivated early on because I was trying to figure out just what was happening. Many twists and turns. Read it very quickly.
Beth
Finlay Donovan is Killing It by Elle Cosimano
Fun, light read. Perfect for summer. Plenty of laughs.
Megan
The Friday Afternoon Club by Griffin Dunne
The title is very conversational and you learn a lot about his life and his extended family.
Melinda
The Bodyguard by Katherine Center
Very fun read.
Lesley
Bad Tourists by Caro Carver
I didn't see the end of this one coming! It was a riveting and quick read. If you're looking for a little trip to the Maldives with a fun group of women and a "light" murder mystery, you might like this one. That said, there are some heavier topics: domestic violence, child abuse, and a larger mass murder case.
Joni
James by Percival Everett
Reread THE ADVENTURES OF HUCKLEBERRY FINN first as a reminder before reading JAMES. JAMES was absolutely brilliant as a retelling from “Jim’s” viewpoint. Everett’s humor added all the right touches to Twain’s story.
Janet
Go As a River by Shelley Read
This well-written book brought tragedies, heartbreak and success in the full circle of life.
LINDA
Enough by Cassidy Hutchinson
Found it interesting but the beginning was a little slow.
Carole
Listen for the Lie by Amy Tintera
Our neighborhood book group read this book as our August selection. I found it just an okay read because I usually enjoy historical fiction as my genre choice. The author did keep the reader in suspense about the killer of Savvy, and the podcast broadcasts were an interesting way to present the story.
Ginny
We Begin at the End by Chris Whitaker
The character development is so well done that I felt empathy toward them all, even though my personal experience is worlds away from theirs. The author manages to draw you into their emotions and reactions in an engrossing manner.
Susan
Ambition: The Wilson Turner Saga, Book One by Jim Stegall
Powerfully written, this is an engaging, important story, sparkling with the research necessary to achieve verisimilitude. It's sometimes hard to remember it's a work of historical fiction and not the anecdotal material relied upon by historians like Ken Burns. Jim Stegall has created a masterpiece to remind us that the Civil War was the deadliest conflagration in American history. More Americans died in the Civil War than in World Wars I and II combined. In fact, two percent of the entire American population died in the Civil War and, as Mr. Stegall so brilliantly shows, it changed the lives of all those who lived through it. This book may not change your life, but its readers will never think about the American Civil War the same way.
Susan
Ruth Means Friend by Patricia Healy
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, older women are much more likely to become widows than their male counterparts are to become widowers. Welcome to the world of the title character of Pat Healy's RUTH MEANS FRIEND, a woman who, before her husband died, could truly say she didn't know where she left off and he began. In this poignant and laugh-out-loud funny novel, she learns. The book examines - and redefines - the concept of "downsizing" after widowhood. The result is a path to rediscovery and the realization that rules are meant to be broken, choices don't have to be binding, and home and friendships are where the heart is.
Kristen
Sam by Allegra Goodman
This was a sad book, but the characters are very well realized. The issues it brought up in book club were well worth discussing as well.
Michelle
Dune: The Prophet (Dune Graphic Novel 3) by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson
A condensed version of the Frank Herbert classic, but the graphic novel treatment brings new life in vivid images and pacing. I loved this version and I think it will open up new readers who may have been intimidated by the reputation and lengthy DUNE saga in the past. Loved reading this one.
Priscilla
Lies Lies Lies by Adele Parks
Good book! Family drama!
Deby
All the Colors of the Dark by Chris Whitaker
WOW! I loved this one so much. When I was done I immediately posted on social media and told everyone else to read it.
Beth
The Grays of Truth by Sharon Virts
Historical fiction fans, take note. In THE GRAYS OF TRUTH, Sharon Virts delves into the suspicious post-Civil War deaths of several people over a four-year period, all at the home of the beautiful Ellen Wharton. Although you probably haven't heard about this case before, it really did happen. Told from the perspective of Jane Gray Wharton, Ellen's sister-in-law, THE GRAYS OF TRUTH begins in 1867 with the death of Jane's friend. Later Jane's husband, then her daughter die when they visit Ellen's home, plus Jane gets sick there. Now Jane suspects that Ellen poisoned them. Over the next three years more people visiting Ellen's home die before they leave. Ellen had motives to kill all of them, and she had opportunity to poison them.
Linda
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon
This novel is based on the real-life person, Martha Ballard, a midwife in 1700s Maine. A rape and the murder of a prominent male causes her to dispute the town physician's testimony as to the cause of death.
Sandy
The God of the Woods by Liz Moore
Very good!
Luella
Starvation Heights by Gregg Olsen
Very interesting story of a woman who claimed to cure all diseases with her starvation diet. She built a sanitarium and many people believed in it. Many died, she swindled them out of money, jewels and land. One former patient who survived fought to stop her. This was a great read.
Ruthanne
The Memo by Rachel Dodes and Lauren Mechling
Clever plot but unfortunately this book really did not work for me. The main character, Jenny, goes back to her mistakes in life with the assistance of the "Consortium ". The story goes back and forth and I found it confusing at times. Sorry but this book was one of the few I have read this year that I struggled to finish.
Richard N B
The Oracle of Stamboul by David Michael Lukas
Historical fiction set in 19th-century Stamboul, seat of the Ottoman Empire (now, Istanbul, Turkey). Eleanora Cohen, a child prodigy, becomes a trusted advisor to the Sultan. She’s intelligent and an astute observer, but she is only a child. Interesting political intrigue. I found this novel atmospheric and engrossing.
Déborah Jackson
The Bodyguard by Katherine Center
Light, fun employee-to-lover romance between a female bodyguard and a super handsome actor whom she is protecting from a stalker. A fast read with satisfying twists.
Allison
The Glassmaker by Tracy Chavalier
Enjoyed the characters and the beautiful setting. Tracy Chavalier is a marvelous writer. In this novel, her characters live for centuries and Venice modernizes. It was a fascinating read.
Christine
By Any Other Name by Jodi Picoult
This book was so good! I loved it from beginning to end!
Barbara
The God of the Woods by Liz Moore
Started out slow, picked up and then ended slow. I don't feel it lived up to the hype. This book has lots of pages and that may account for the occasional bog downs. This is yet another book with several POVs and time changes. I find that changes the momentum of the book and mostly dislike that style of writing. Not many authors can pull it off successfully. I liked the plot and the setting. Maybe the characters could have been fleshed out more.
Kathleen
The Tea Girl of Hummingbird Lane by Lisa See
I love this author because, even though her main characters are a different culture from me, she makes me able to relate to them.
Sharron
California Golden by Melanie Benjamin
Interesting but not gripping. Starts with female surfers in 60s and follows them through the years.
Kay
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon
A very riveting book!
Joanne
Daughter of Mine by Megan Miranda
A riveting plot. Well done by this author, as usual.
Denise
The Marriage Portrait by Maggie O'Farrell
Welcome to the mid 1500s Italy during the Italian Renaissance. Meet the well-known de Medici and d’Este families. Written from the POV of young Lucrezia de Medici who is married off to the Duke of Ferrara in the traditional manner of maintaining and achieving political and domain power. Power is ultimately gained by providing male heirs. Lucrezia realizes far too soon that she will not live a long life. The book is a descriptive and imaginative retelling of a young girl who meets an unfortunate ending. A mystery inspired by Browning's "The Last Duchess" poem. The book explores obedience, isolation, loneliness and self-doubt. Another wonderful historical fiction by O'Farrell with an interesting ending.
elaine
The Glassmaker by Tracy Chevalier
I found it so hard to get into that I was about to return the book to my library. Hardhead that I am, I gave it one more try. Her time skipping with the skipping of a stone was useless as it just caused incredulity. No one lives as long as Orsola did. Her story was interesting but hard to follow sometimes.
Laura
This Place of Wonder by Barbara O’Neal
A fantastic story of four women whose lives are upended when a man they all love passes. The lies, love and decisions will keep you turning pages.
Dara
Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maud Montgomery
Rereading an old book from my childhood. It is a story that is a classic. The story is engaging and interesting. Love the way the author gives enough details, but still allows the reader to also fill in their own details.
Dorothy
The Wartime Book Club by Kate Thompson
The people of Jersey Isle are forced to live under Nazi rule during WWII. Two brave young women work tirelessly resisting the Nazis. Grace is a librarian who continues to serve the community with books and a book club even though the circumstances are difficult. Her friend Bea delivers letters, and she uses her job to read threatening letters before she delivers them so she and Grace can warn neighbors of impending Nazi searches. THE WARTIME BOOK CLUB is a story of survival and bravery.
Laura
Brave New World by Aldous Huxley
There is a reason this is a classic.
lAURA
Becoming Madam Secretary by Stephanie Dray
Wonderful story. Wonderful writer.
Lisa
Sisters of Fortune by Anna Lee Huber
Great historical fiction of a family aboard the Titanic, their interpersonal stories and the final outcome.
Jackie
The Teacher by Freida McFadden
This was my third Freida McFadden novel. Her writing keeps your interest, her characters are unique and the stories keep you guessing.
Jackie
Swan Song by Elin Hilderbrand
Another good story by a great author. I feel like I have been to Nantucket and immersed in the culture and the characters. Twists and turns keep you guessing. It’s a shame this will be her “Swan Song”.
Cindy
The Bird Hotel by Joyce Maynard
A tragedy sends a young woman on a journey where she enters a magical world in another country and finds a new life and peace at last.
Katy
The Secret Life of Sunflowers by Marta Molnar
Johanna Bonger, Vincent van Gogh's sister-in-law, inherits Vincent's paintings and devotes her life to preserving his body of work and legacy. If you are passionate about art, Van Gogh and history, spend some time with this book. It also gives interesting perspective on what society felt a woman's life should be. I continued to reflect on the book long after I read the last page. Always a positive outcome of a good book!
Joan
Abide with Me by Elizabeth Strout
The main character, a young pastor, was very likable. He faced a lot of challenges.
Kelley
The Optimist's Daughter by Eudora Welty
Lovely Southern themes.
Dvora
The Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese
Excellent.
Diane
The Truth About the Devlins by Lisa Scottoline
Loved listening to the audiobook! A compelling story that kept me interested. Loved the narrator, Edoardo Ballerini!
Judith
What Have You Done? by Shari Lapena
This was a fabulous read and I could not put it down. Every chapter was exciting and made me push on to the next one. It was an outstanding read and I would highly recommend this book to everyone. A thriller mixed with wonderful character profiles.
Michelle
Miss Benson’s Beetle by Rachel Joyce
3.5 stars. A cute listen on audio, superbly read by Juliet Stevenson who really helped bring the book alive. A quirky, amusing story that ultimately is about perseverance and unexpected friendships. Not my favorite genre but needed a lighter book with a bit of humor.
Darlene
The Measure by Nikki Erlick
I found it to be depressing and certainly not as good as everyone said it would be.
Karen
A House With Good Bones by T. Kingfisher
A horror story that won't keep you up at night but does answer questions about the homestead and the main character's memories. Likeable characters for the most part with one grandmother who was cruel with odd powers. It also includes a "pet" vulture and an owner with good powers of her own.
Nancy
Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone by Benjamin Stevenson
An interesting mystery which includes author intrusion. Makes for a fun read.
Margaret
The God of the Woods by Liz Moore
A great novel with a twist at the end. I love a book with an interesting plot, character development, and it felt like I was in the setting of the woods.
Jan
Jackie by Dawn Tripp
Long book but easy to read. No pictures. Fascinating history with Aristotle Onasis - she knew him while JFK was still alive and he dated her sister!
MH
Her Daughter’s Dream by Francine Rivers
Christian fiction about the complicated relationship between mothers and daughters. One mother, sickly, gives the care of her daughter to her mother, which leads to a lifelong estrangement between them. History repeats itself when the daughter has to rely on her own mother to care for her child. By the end of the book, I wasn’t sure which daughter or which “her” the title referred to and didn’t know what the dream was.
Lynn
The God of the Woods by Liz Moore
Excellent read with lots of twists and turns.
Joanne
Daughter of Mine by Megan Miranda
Didn’t see that ending coming!
Wanda
The Medicine Woman of Galveston by Amanda Skenandore
Such a great historical fiction novel once again by this great author! I have read many of her novels and in each one I can picture the characters which she so completely and clearly depicts. The storyline keeps you turning the pages for more. I did not want this to end, it was so enthralling. The medical isolation these characters had to endure was incredible. Such a good read!! Can't wait to read more from this author. Once again I enjoyed the historical points - so engaging!!
Nancy
The Midnight Feast by Lucy Foley
I love this author’s character development, and plot line. She takes her time to set the scene and it is very descriptive, and you are always at the edge of your seat by the end. I also loved the GUEST
LIST by her.
Dorothy
Love Medicine by Louise Erdrich
I’ve read several of her books and this isn’t my favorite. All chapters don’t seem to go together.
Betty Jo
Real Americans by Rachel Khong
I like stories about the effects of immigration on the second generation. In this case, the Chinese Cultural Revolution and science and choices surrounding these situations kept me reading.
Dottie
The House at the End of the Street by Diane Chamberlain
Enjoyed listening to it.
June
It's Elementary by Elise Bryant
A cute story featuring a frazzled mother trying to balance it all. The PTA mom genre is a fun one, and one that is easily relatable.
Donna
Butcher by Joyce Carol Oates
This harrowing story set in the New Jersey Asylum for Female Lunatics in Trenton, New Jersey, is based on historical documents and Dr. J. Marion Sims, the notorious physician who experimented on enslaved women during the 19th century. Well-written in Victorian Gothic tones, this is the fictionalized story of Dr. Silas Weir, known as the “Father of Modern Gyno-Psychiatry.”
With my oldest daughter being an OB/GYN, I was intrigued by this book, a blend of fact and fiction, dealing with a time when treating women was considered distasteful and rarely done. Knowing that it is based on real people, including Sims, was both horrifying and heartbreaking. An extremely dark part of history.
Debra
Ladies of the Lake by Cathy Gohlke
I loved the thoughts, lessons and examples of friendships in this beautifully-written book. I was reminded to nurture the friendships in my life. As WWI happened and the world changed, the strong bonds of friendship were tested in ways that no one could have imagined. Assumptions, secrets and lies led to barriers between friends who had once enjoyed closeness and loyalty. Would regrets or second chances win? As hurts were finally healed, the beauty of the present was appreciated. Joy returned, as it often does, after a long night of weeping. I loved this book!
Elizabeth
Dear Edward by Ann Napolitano
Great book about a young boy who was the only survivor of a plane crash. Great character development. I loved the way the author alternated chapters about the boy's life after the crash and the passengers on the plane.
Debra
All’s Fair in Love and War by Virginia Heath
This delightful book transported me back to England, in the year 1820. Having been groomed to be a career Navy man, Harry was a bit of a stickler. Schedules and order kept his life humming. Georgie was a newly trained governess, who was a bit unconventional. Through unplanned events and desperate need, Georgie found herself employed by Harry. Let the fun begin! This book was filled with charm, lovable characters, tenderness, much hilarity, satisfying romance and really good storytelling. I really enjoyed it.
Susan
I Love You, Miss Huddleston by Philip Gulley
Amusing tales of growing up in small-town Indiana. Easy read, some laughs.
Linda
What Happened to the Bennetts by Lisa Scottoline
This gripping thriller is about what a father will do to protect his vulnerable family when the supposed "good guys" turn out to be traitors. It's an action-packed story filled with surprises.
Sharon
Blackberry Pie Murder by Joanne Fluke
A good read as Hannah Swensen and family bake cookies and eat delicious sounding food, even after Hannah's stint in the local jail for hitting a man (who is dead when she checks) during a bad thunderstorm. Every chapter has a recipe for some sort of delicious sounding cookie (and at least one for a pie). But baking is not all Hannah and crew do, for the mystery of who the deceased man was, what his occupation was, and who actually murdered him is solved.
Susann
Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano
A story about family with well-written prose that keeps your attention, but I still liked DEAR EDWARD more.
Connie
The Janus Stone by Elly Griffiths
Good story about an archeologist who helps a detective solve murders. I like the ongoing relationship between the main character and the detective, who is married.
Patricia
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon
So good. Had trouble putting it down.
Sheree
Same as It Ever Was by Claire Lombardo
I love family saga's. This one was a doozy! Julia had the perfect husband but she was so messed up from her relationship with her mother it lead her to make bad decisions. She finally reunites with her mother in the end, but it was a story well told.
Chris
The Terraformers by Annalee Newitz
It is like a war of words that becomes a war.
Dorothy
The Last Twelve Miles by Erika Robuck
Historical fiction set during prohibition. 1920s Story of the Coast Guard, a female, code breaker and a female rum runner. Author provides readers questions and notes. .
Elizabeth
The Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese
This book was a story about a family in India and the people they interacted with over two generations. The writing was gorgeous, and I learned a lot about a country I know little about.
Ivy
The Last Summer on State Street by Toya Wolfe
Felicia is a child who grew up in the projects in Chicago with a mother who strived to expose her to the best things in life away from the daily dread. There is a heartfelt rhythm to Wolfe's storytelling as Felicia reflects on the daily beats of life outside of the jump rope games they play, the gun shots they duck from and the trauma she sees her friends accept.
Susan
For the Love of Summer by Susan Mallery
Erica thinks her life is almost perfect but she knows something is missing. Her daughter Summer has a closer relationship with her stepmother than she does with Erica. When her ex-husband gets in trouble with the law, Summer talks her mother into taking care of her stepmom where Erica finds out things about herself that she didn't think possible.
Carol
An Argumention of Historians (Chronicles of St Mary’s, Book 9) by Jodi Taylor
This book is fantastic! This is Book 9 in a long series by Jody Taylor, which is called The Chronicles of St. Mary’s. They are a group of historians, adventurers, scientist, engineers, who time travel backwards in time to document what really happened in specific events in history around the world. Of course there’s adventure, there’s chaos, there’s romance, there’s history, there’s adventure, and there’s mystery! They are absolutely fabulous stories while you’re learning about history and thoroughly enjoying yourself while doing it!
Janice
Falling by T. J. Newman
This is one of the most realistically suspenseful books I have read. It grabbed me from the beginning, and never let up. A pilot is sent a picture showing his wife and son with bags over their heads, and explosives strapped to their bodies, and he is told he must crash the commercial plane he is flying from L.A. to New York. Alternating between what is happening on the plane, and on the ground, the suspense just keeps building. Very well written! My thanks to Bookreporter.com for the copy of this book I was lucky enough to win!
Cynthia
Wild Love by Elsie Silver
Ford is a hot billionaire but it doesn’t go to his head. He’s best friend’s sister Rosie comes back to town looking for a job. He has always adored her so he hires her for his new company. He finds a daughter after he donated sperm back in his lean years. Cora adores him and Rosie, too. He’s always craved Rosie since their childhood days and boy he still does. Things heat up for sure.
Barbara
The Women by Kristin Hannah
An awesome book. I learned so much about the Vietnam war and the role women played. I was shocked to learn that people did not know that women were there. And I still cannot understand why women were not considered veterans of the war while male non-combatant veterans were considered as such. As always, Hannah's writing is excellent.
Jane
Just for the Summer by Abby Jimenez
I loved this book and did not realize that it was the third in a series, but you don not need to read the others to love this book. Emma's life experiences and her relationship with her mostly absent mother make an interesting story. It affects her relationships with friends - her best friend Maddie as well as with men - Justin. Justin's crisis adds to the turmoil of their relationship.
Elizabeth
The Cliffs by J. Courtney Sullivan
I love stories that span different generations, and this had the bonus of including a ghost story! The characters felt real and likable with their flaws. This book also taught me a lot about the cultures of our indigenous peoples and piqued my curiosity to learn more.
Aileen
Defending Jacob by William Landay
4.25 stars. A district attorney’s son is accused of a crime. Their family life changes while they stand by their son in defense of his innocence. This book gave me whiplash. I did not see the end of this novel coming. I had to read the ending twice!
Sue-Marie
Fire and Bones by Kathy Reichs
The book was well plotted, but the foreshadowing at the end of numerous chapters added nothing to the suspense. Some of the incidents seemed more manufactured than believable. I'm tired of Tempe and Ryan being out of step with each other. Some of the peripheral characters seemed like caricatures.
Myrna
How the Light Gets In by Joyce Maynard
I thoroughly enjoyed Maynard's HOW THE LIGHT GETS IN. It's a sequel to COUNT THE WAYS, but one can read the second book without having read the first because she deftly manages to fill in background about each character even as the new plot develops. I truly appreciate her ability to write about family dynamics, good and bad.
Simonne
Chances Are… by Richard Russo
Any book by this author is hilarious and thought-provoking.
Simonne
Book Lovers by Emily Henry
Enemies become lovers, which I love. Both main characters are super smart and super swarmy.
Nancy
The Rent Collector by Camron Wright
I never would have picked up this book if it hadn't been chosen by a fellow book club member, but I'm so glad I did. I was familiar with the favelas, the shantytowns outside big cities in Brazil where poor people live. Until I read this book, I had no idea that poor people in Cambodia have it worse -- actually living in the dumps so they can pick trash to re-sell. The book is a novel but follows a real-life family who face illness, crime, destitution and death, and yet carry hope throughout. An easy writing style to follow, but tough subject material.
Simonne
The Secret Life of Sunflowers by Marta Molnar
A look into the tortured life of Vincent Van Gogh and the subsequent tragedies to his sister-in-law trying to preserve his legacy and brilliance.
Donna
Rock Paper Scissors by Alice Feeney
This book had me guessing back and forth until I got closer to the end. The face blindness of the male character was what pulled me in. The weekend away for this married couple in an old church was creepy, yet it, too, was quite twisty and kept you guessing what was going on. It also makes you think about the life of an author that they take on to write their books for us. All very interesting and definitely a page-turner since you can't put it down.
Nancy
The Paris Daughter by Kristin Harmel
Have read other books by this author and always enjoy them.
Janice
The Ice Sings Back by M. Jackson
A book beyond easy categories, this novel is a mystery with great character development. Four strong women, a sense of the mystical, of science, written with a poetic voice. Set in the Oregon Cascades, in an area where (in this story) women and girls have been disappearing for years. Yet there is a sense that all may not be as it seems. The author is herself a glaciologist, and her science background comes through, yet she writes with a poetic voice. I would give this one 4- 1/2 stars.
Debbie
Year of the Tiger by Alice Wong
YEAR OF THE TIGER did not seem like a book that I would relish reading. I learned so much from Alice Wong’s ranting about individuals with disabilities. Alice Wong was born with muscular dystrophy and has battled with the consequences of this muscle ailment her entire life. In 1990, the Americans with Disabilities Act became a legal aid, but this only provided little some assistance for disabled individuals. Alice Wong details such problems as schoolrooms at all levels of education, access to buildings and buses, plastic straws available in restaurants, and assistance with daily functions such as dressing and eating. I also did not realize the scope of Medicaid, especially in assistance for disabled persons.
Maureen
Trust by Hernan Diaz
Enjoyed reading it. Story is told through four fictional books.
Vickie
Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt
Loved this story. I will never look at an octopus the same again after Marcellus. Lots of laughs.
Christina
It Ends with Us by Colleen Hoover
It started off slow and wasn't sure if I was going to like this book, but I gave it a chance and it was a good book. The story was realistic and relatable. I was surprised and saddened by the ending. It was heartbreaking but inspirational in the tough choices Lily had to make.
Pam
The Briar Club by Kate Quinn
It is the 1950s, the time of Senator Joe McCarthy and the "Red Scare." Kate Quinn brings us a wonderfully diverse cast of characters who live in an all female boardinghouse. As they form deep bonds of friendship, we get to know each of the women and are caught up in their lives. Each has a story, but only one has a deadly secret. I loved this novel told with drama, suspense and heart. Another home run for Kate Quinn!
Pam
Mercy House by Alena Dillon
Filled with humor, heartbreak, rage, tenderness, and enormous humanity, MERCY HOUSE is the story of a Catholic nun who runs a shelter for abused girls and women. Incredibly moving in its joy and trauma, friendship and redemption.
Pam
True North by Andrew J. Graff
In an effort to save his marriage and find a real home for his family, Sam moves his wife and two children to Wisconsin's north woods and buys a run down rafting company. His dream rapidly disintegrates as he discovers that a new rafting adventure business has just opened nearby and a mining company is intent on purchasing the pristine woodlands he loves. Authentic characters and a gorgeous setting bring this outdoor adventure to life.
Susan
The God of the Woods by Liz Moore
I’d call this title literary suspense. Moore writes eloquent descriptions. There were twists and turns. I loved the ending.
Brenda
How to Solve Your Own Murder by Kristen Perrin
Intriguing title. Intriguing premise. Interesting characters. Definitely a dartboard mystery - the author writes all the characters' names on a dartboard and throws a dart to see who done it. Disappointing. Even the protagonist was surprised.
Marcia
The Royal Librarian by Daisy Wood
An interesting look into the Royal Family and England in general at the beginning of WWII.
Gerry
The Little Liar by Mitch Albom
A parable about the Holocaust, this one didn't quite live up to the reviews I'd seen. On the plus side, THE LITTLE LIAR made me aware of the impact of WWII on the Jewish people of Greece, a population I had not learned about before. On the minus side, the writing was simplistic, the characters were flat stereotypes, and the narration by "Truth" felt gimmicky. Perhaps this book is better suited to a YA audience, though it is not cataloged as such at my library.
Gerry
As Bright as Heaven by Susan Meissner
Not a bad story, but written in rather bland, juvenile language, perhaps because much of the story is narrated in the voices of three young girls, and with more focus on romance than appealed to me. I much preferred Meissner's earlier novel, A FALL OF MARIGOLDS, to this story set in Philadelphia during the Spanish flu.
Gerry
North Woods by Daniel Mason
I didn't love every chapter in this book, but wouldn't have missed the overall experience for anything. There are historic, scientific, literary, and paranormal aspects to this cleverly-written novel, along with photographs and poetry that I tended to skim over. In the end, it's a paean to the natural world, and a reminder that we are only a small part of that world, which will continue to grow and change long after we are gone, assuming we don't destroy it (and ourselves) completely. It's also a reminder of what a talented and versatile writer Daniel Mason is.
Gerry
The Paris Agent by Kelly Rimmer
An engaging dual timeline novel centered on the espionage agents, many of them women, who served Britain during World War II.
Gerry
Days of Wonder by Caroline Leavitt
This story of a single mother and her daughter started off well enough, but by the end I concluded it was only okay at best. Leavitt tried to develop a complex plot with parallel stories about mother and daughter making some of the same mistakes and overcoming some of the same difficulties, but her character development was poor and the characters began to seem more and more unrealistic. Several of the main characters suffered from debilitating feelings of guilt over events of the past, and most of the plot twists relied on their tiresome inability to be honest with themselves or with others, especially those whom they claimed to love. It concluded with all the loose ends too neatly tied up and everyone likely to live "happily ever after".
Gerry
Someone Like Us by Dinaw Mengestu
This is a tough one to review. Churchill's phrase, “A riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma,” is an apt description of this novel centered on Mamush, an Ethiopian-American journalist, raised in America but now living in France with his wife and two-year-old son. Returning home to visit his mother, he learns that Samuel, the man who is probably his father, has been found dead. Mamush sets off on a search, for his past, for his mother's story with Samuel, for Samuel's life as an immigrant in the U.S., for closure for all of this, perhaps, and more. The novel progresses in a dream-like manner, moving from past to present to future, and from one setting to another, with each new chapter seeming to contradict what occurred earlier.
Gerry
The Lion Women of Tehran by Marjan Kamali
3-1/2 stars rounded up for this story of two girls growing to womanhood in Iran from the 1950s to the present. Lots of history, which I enjoyed, and interesting characters as well. Sad that the people, especially the women, of that country have suffered so much under multiple oppressive governments.
Gerry
Crow Lake by Mary Lawson
4-1/2 stars for this beautifully-written, slow-moving, character-driven novel of a farm family in northern Ontario. Luke and Matt were 19 and 17, their little sisters Kate and Bo only 7 and 2, when their parents were killed a in automobile accident. Distant relatives from across Canada decide on a plan to care for the children, and Aunt Anne is sent as emissary to explain the plan and bring the children to their new homes. But when that plan is declined, the fate of the family is in the hands of the two boys, who must adjust their own future plans and measures of success.
A meditation on family bonds and traditions, striving and settling, and understanding the journeys of others. I was entranced by every sentence.
Gerry
The God of the Woods by Liz Moore
Thirteen-year-old Barbara has lived for years in the big house adjacent to the camp her family owns, and this summer, for the first time, she's going to be a camper there. She settles in, begins to make friends, and soon established herself as the most skilled at the survival skills taught at the camp. And then one morning, she isn't in her bunk when the campers are roused to begin their day. This isn't the first time a VanLaar child has disappeared. Years earlier, her brother "Bear" went missing during an annual celebration at the family estate. Could the two disappearances be connected in some way? Another complex and intriguing mystery novel, with fascinating characters and a plot laid out carefully to keep the suspense high throughout.
Gerry
The Faculty Lounge by Jennifer Matthieu
Jennifer Mathieu is a teacher as well as a writer, and as this novel shows clearly, she's been watching her colleagues closely over her twenty-year teaching career. THE FACULTY LOUNGE starts off with a bang, and continues through a full school year, introducing numerous characters in a variety of funny, touching, and realistic situations that every educator is bound to recognize. Highly recommended for all who have worked in schools, it will probably also appeal to anyone who's worked within a corporate or bureaucratic environment with teams of employees.
Ana
Mr. Texas by Lawrence Wright
I thoroughly enjoyed this satire on Texas politics. The author mentions that he wrote the first version when Ann Richards was still governor of the state (!), but then thought it would be a good musical or television series. It was well written and held my attention with all the political shenanigans and colorful characters. Even the audiobook narration was excellent as I tried that version out as well.
Gerry
Daughters of Shandong by Eve J. Chung
Though this is a fictional tale based on the author's grandmother's experiences during the Chinese Revolution of 1949, DAUGHTERS OF SHANDONG reads like a well-written memoir. The narrator, Hai, is a young teenager when her father and his parents flee Shandong Province in northern China as the Red Army approaches. Hai, her younger sister, and their mother are left behind to guard the family farm, but believe the family will return soon. Their hopes are dashed when Communist soldiers intent on putting landholders to death for the crime of impoverishing their tenants, force them to leave their home. They begin a long and arduous journey first to Qingdao, and eventually to Taiwan. While China undergoes one revolution, Hai undergoes her own.
Gerry
Celine by Peter Heller
3-1/2 stars. Initially, I was disappointed that this novel focused more on Celine, the private detective, than on her client and the client's missing father, as Celine seemed an unusual and unrealistic character to me. But as I was slowly drawn into the story, Celine and her partner, Pete, both became more interesting, though still quirky. At 68, Celine was described as old and somewhat infirm, but still sharp and able to continue her investigative practice, at which she was quite skilled. In this case, she and Pete have been hired by a young woman to discover that happened to her father some 20-years earlier; he had reportedly disappeared in or near a national park in Montana, and was declared dead.
Gerry
The Brillian Life of Eudora Honeysett by Annie Lyons
A sweet story about an 85-year-old woman who lives alone after a long life of putting others' needs and wants first. Now Eudora has had enough of life and wants very much to arrange her own "good death". But when a new family moves in next door and the energetic ten-year old daughter befriends Eudora and another older neighbor, Eudora finds her plans beginning to change. The audiobook was narrated very well by Nicolette MacKenzie.
Gerry
Tell Me Everything by Elizabeth Strout
Strout has a way of creating characters and settings that make her stories tremendously appealing in their gentle, quiet way. There's generally not a lot of action, just people living their lives, interacting with one another, and finding their way through the good and bad things that life brings to all. TELL ME EVERYTHING includes so many of the characters Strout has introduced in earlier books, reuniting them all in the small town of Crosby, Maine, and connecting their stories, both past and present, in a way that makes me want to gather all of her books, organize them in some kind of chronology, and re-read them one after the other.
Gerry
The Cypress Maze by Fiona Valpy
Tuscany, 1943. Stranded in war-ravaged Italy, Beatrice's dream of an escapist year teaching English is shattered. Granted shelter at the Villa delle Colombe, she seeks refuge in Francesca and Edoardo's beautiful walled garden, hidden from the outside world, with an elaborate cypress maze at its heart. Tuscany 2015. Tess arrives at the villa raw from the loss of her young husband. Beatrice, now custodian, guides her to the solace of its gardens, where Tess begins to heal. But all hope of peace is shattered by the arrival of Marco, the estate's absent owner, who wants nothing more than to hand it over to developers. The novel moves between these two eras to reveal the tragic events that occurred at the Villa during WWII.
Gerry
Second House from the Corner by Sadeqa Johnson
3.5 stars, rounded up. I love the way Sadeqa Johnson writes her character’s thoughts about motherhood and her reactions to everyday events with her children. I enjoyed recognizing so many of the sites mentioned in the story, both in Philadelphia and in New Jersey. Felicia’s relationship with Martin was troubling, both during her teen years and especially when he reentered her life as an adult, and I was unhappy with many of the choices she made. Overall, this is a good story from an author whose voice, whether she's writing historical fiction or a contemporary novel like this one, is very appealing to me.
Gerry
Zarifa: A Woman's Battle in a Man's World by Zarifa Ghafari, with Hannah Lucinda Smith
This book had been on my shelf for a couple of years after I received it in a giveaway box after attending Hachette's Book Club Brunch. It fit this year's ABC Challenge, prompting me finally to start reading. While interesting, it lacked the power to fully engage me. The writing was bland and a bit dry, and events seemed to be presented in no particular order, neither chronological nor causal. It did reinforce to me the futility of so much of the US's interventions in other countries. Funds are sent for specific purposes but too often fail to reach those who can use them productively. Instead they are being sucked up in the corruption we're supposedly fighting.
Gerry
The Great Believers by Rebecca Makkai
An outstanding novel set in Chicago during the AIDS epidemic. Very well written, with an engaging plot and great characters with heartbreaking stories.
Gerry
Saint X by Alexis Schaitkin
A very well-written coming-of-age/mystery novel centered on the disappearance of a college-age girl on a Caribbean island while on vacation with her family. Narrated mostly from the perspective of the missing girl's younger sister, who was only seven when her sister disappeared, the novel follows the child into her young adult years and examines the impact of this tragedy on her life, as well as on the lives of her parents, the accused killers, the couple who found the body and others. It came to a satisfying conclusion that I didn't expect.
Gerry
We Were the Lucky Ones by Georgia Hunter
Based on the true story of her Jewish-Polish family, WE WERE THE LUCKY ONES is an astonishing survival story that takes place over the entire course of WWII and on multiple continents. The Kurc family lived in the Polish town of Radom but were soon scattered in all directions by the encroaching war and efforts to exterminate Poland's Jews. Hunter learned the outlines of her family's story at a family reunion when she was a teenager, and she spent years researching and writing this fictionalized account of their struggles. For me, the novel's fatal flaw was its failure to engage the reader with the family members as individuals prior to the onset of war, with the result that the characters in this novel remained almost interchangeable.
Gerry
How the Light Gets In by Joyce Maynard
This continuation of the story of Eleanor and her family from COUNT THE WAYS was enjoyable and engaging. It followed the characters through the years from 2009 to 2024, tracing the events of their lives as the children come of age and their elders cope with the changes in their roles as parents and with their own changing needs and capabilities, and as all strive to find their place in the world, a place that's home for each of them.
Maynard also weaves into her story many of the issues and events of importance across the US: climate change, school shootings, political campaigns, and the insurrection of January 6, 2021, and the increasing divisiveness that seems to mark 21st century America.
Gerry
This Strange Eventful History by Claire Messud
Though it's received much critical praise, this novel was a bit of a slog for me. Claire Messud's writing is flowery, her sentences long and complex as they meander through descriptive phrases and clauses until this reader was unsure just what the subject of the sentence was. The novel itself was told from multiple points of view, and the various narrators were never identified until at least a long paragraph, and sometimes more than a page, into each chapter. The story moved forward in time, with gaps of 10 or more years between sections, so there was a constant sense of having missed something important. Based on a 1,500-page family history written by her grandfather, this is a fictionalized account of the author's own family story.
Gerry
Nuclear War: A Scenario by Annie Jacobsen
Annie Jacobsen has written a surprisingly readable and utterly terrifying minute-by-minute account of the total devastation that will be wrought if we are ever foolish enough to engage in nuclear war. Billions upon billions of dollars have been spent developing and building nuclear weapons and "planning" for our defense if another nation should initiate a nuclear attack. And IMHO, every penny of it is a WASTE, given the level of nuclear armaments in multiple countries, and the impossibility of a robust defense against them. Our government's plans focus on keeping the government operational (which means saving themselves), and Jacobsen makes it quite clear that even that effort would be doomed.
Gerry
The Act of Disappearing by Nathan Gower
In his debut novel, Nathan Gower has written a propulsive historical mystery that captured my interest from the beginning and kept me reading much of the afternoon. Julia is a young writer whose first book had rather disappointing sales. But a famous photographer has read it and approaches her with a proposal: to research and write the story behind a photograph he took decades earlier but has never displayed. Her research takes her to a small town in Kentucky, where readers are also introduced to Kate, a young girl growing up in the 1960s with the stigma of a mentally ill mother who's the subject of town gossip. Gower alternates the narration between these two main characters in a compelling and suspenseful plot.
Marsha
A Calamity of Souls by David Baldacci
This was like a rollercoaster ride with a big dip at the end --- a mixture of TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD and IN THE HEAT OF THE NIGHT. As a white Northern girl growing up in the '60s, I thought I understood the times. This book taught me more.
Diane
An Unfinished Love Story: A Personal History of the 1960s by Doris Kearns Goodwin
Doris Kearns Goodwin is always a wonderful storyteller, making history engaging and memorable. This is a wonderful retrospective of the 1960s, AND the audio version is not only narrated by the author but the included quotes from various campaign and presidential speeches of JFK, LBJ and Robert Kennedy are provided via audio clips of those famous men.
Lacie
The Daedalus Protocol by Jeff Sheckter
An amazing read! You are sucked in right from the start. I was able to see this as a movie or a short series while I was reading. The scenes are fantastically written with gripping details and visual cues. I even caught myself holding my breath in some chapters. A definite must read!
Liz
It Ends with Us by Colleen Hoover
Lily has found the man of her dreams, but he has a dark side that she knew nothing about. After a whirlwind courtship and marriage, Lily knows she has a very difficult decision to make. This book had a somewhat slow start but quickly picked up and was unputdownable.
Richard N B
A Study in Scarlet by Arthur Conan Doyle
This novella introduced the reading public to Sherlock Holmes and his trusty sidekick, Dr. Watson. The case hinges on a dead body found in a locked room. Although the corpse shows no signs of having been attacked, Holmes is convinced it was murder. I found it a slower read than today’s mystery novels. But I was interested in getting to know Holmes and Watson. We learn how Holmes came to his method of deduction and begin to see the fast friendship that will develop between these two men.
Mary Lou
The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman
This book tells of a lively group of senior citizens who live in a retirement community and gather to discuss and hopefully solve a recent murder in their neighborhood. The characters are wonderfully active and have a canny and amusing way of gathering facts of the recent crime and helping the police bring the culprits to justice. It is a light mystery with great characters and an unpredictable solution.
Donna
The Paris Gown by Christine Wells
I always appreciate a book celebrating strong female friendships, and THE PARIS GOWN by Christine Wells is exactly that. Told from multiple POVs, this charming tale has it all: friendship, mystery, romance and, of course, fashion. The characters are so real, flaws and all. I enjoyed watching them grow as they continued working toward their goals. And please check out its gorgeous cover having an actual Dior gown!
Sandy
All the Broken Places by John Boyne
This novel is based on the history of WWII and all the people who lived it. Gretel was a child whose father was a high ranking officer in the Nazi regime. She has carried guilt all her life. It affected every part of her life, and she never got over it.
Julie
Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books by Kirsten Miller
Banned books is at the top of the short list of subjects that make my blood boil. And while Kirsten Miller has the rare ability to take a serious subject and make it funny, this one fell a bit flat for me. Sure, there were parts where I laughed out loud, but I felt she tried a bit too hard with this one, drawing in extraneous characters who didn’t really contribute to the plot (which in and of itself is genius)! While this book is clearly about the message, I think that was best conveyed in the author’s note at the end. That said, I’d recommend this book to avid readers and those who believe in democracy.
Julie
Sandwich by Catherine Newman
I fit the target audience of this book to a T --- a post-menopausal woman in her 50s who spends a week each summer at a cottage on the Cape with her (now) young adult child. While it only took me a day to read (on the Cape, I might add), SANDWICH didn’t quite deliver the light, summer beach read I was hoping for. The first several chapters had me laughing out loud, and I could really appreciate (in an all-too-familiar sort of way) the snark in Willa’s comments. About halfway in, Newman lost me until the very end when she comes full circle and taps on my heartstrings again, as their family vacation on the Cape comes to an end.
Julie
Forty Nights in Aruba by Bea Ann Argh
Perhaps our shared love of Aruba and the author's warm, welcoming people, and the fact that a good portion of this book takes place in May 2024 when I was actually in Aruba, influenced my opinion. But I absolutely LOVED this book. I started it Saturday morning and finished late that night. I couldn’t put it down! This captivating story of transformation has it all (love, suspense, dysfunction, intrigue) and plays to every emotion. Those who have visited this island of paradise will enjoy numerous references to familiar places. Those who haven’t will enjoy a literary escape. Either way, be sure to tuck this one in your summer beach bag. I promise you’ll be glad you did!
Liz
The Gift by Freida McFadden
A different take on the age-old story “The Gift of the Magi.” A young couple with little money need to get each other a Christmas gift for their first Christmas together. As with all of this author’s stories, you think you know the ending, but wait...there is a twist.
Kimiko
Such a Lovely Family by Aggie Blum Thompson
What a perfect (to the outside world) family! Their annual Cherry Blossom party, where the who's who of Washington, DC meet to mingle, eat and drink, is the party of the season. But this family is hiding secrets. The father wants a divorce to be with a much younger woman, the mother is trying hard to hold onto the family, the oldest son killed a girl in a drug-fueled auto accident, the middle son just wants to get married --- to a nanny, no less --- and the youngest daughter struggles so hard to get ahead while being married to a con man. So WHO killed the father and why?
Karen
Tom Lake by Ann Patchett
Tom Lake is not a man but a place. It is the site of a summer theater with a lake. It is mostly a character-based narrative with Lara as the narrator and central figure. She is now in her 50s and riding out COVID-19 on her cherry farm with her husband and their three twenty-something daughters. They are urging their mom to tell the story of her short acting career and her relationship with Duke, who is now a famous movie star. The novel is about the interaction between Lara and her daughters. Lara decides what to disclose while making references to the time she successfully acted in "Our Town" and dated Duke. The play runs a thread through the novel, and the discussions bring the girls together and allow Lara to learn from her past.
Rita
The Townsend Family Recipe for Disaster by Shauna Robinson
Mae Townsend is about to get married, and this brings up a long-held desire to get to know her dad’s side of the family. She has been told all her life that her Black grandmother did not approve of his marriage to a white woman. Although Mae has some evidence of family interaction in her early years, there has been none since she was a child. Mae sends out wedding invitations to all of the Townsend family, but it appears that none are going to come or even answer. Well, there is one snarky answer, and it is a no. Mae finds out that her paternal grandmother has passed. She decides to go the funeral and meet that side of the family. This is an interesting story of how families can break apart and how difficult it is to mend such a break.
Rita
Alice in Jeopardy by Ed McBain
I never read crime novels anymore, but this one was on my shelf...and, yes, I read it in one day. I admit to figuring out most of the plot early on, but it was still interesting and enjoyable. I knew I knew the author but had forgotten that he had written THE BLACKBOARD JUNGLE as Evan Hunter way back when. I like this book because it was not gory or overly complex. There is one pretty explicit sex scene that was really unnecessary to the story, but that I prefer that over gore.
Sharon
The Women by Kristin Hannah
This was a remarkable book to read at our book group that has members ages 62-84 with all different perspectives of the Vietnam War. We had a male veteran who also read the book attend the meeting and proved much of the information in the story to be true.
Elizabeth
Night Angels by Weina Dai Randel
This is historical fiction about Dr. Ho Fengshan, consul general of China, who was posted in Vienna during Hitler's reign in Germany. He worked to get Jewish people out of the country to Shanghai through passports he supplied and was later honored for his work.
Sean
Black Sky by Victor Methos
This isn't what I know Victor Methos for, and as a western it's pretty run of the mill and almost generic. It's fine for what it is --- a fast read with a solid protagonist --- but there isn't much meat on the bone as the only twist was obvious and everything else plays pretty straight. Overall, it's a quick, painless read.
Claudia
A Particular Madness by Sheldon Russell
Jacob Roland grew up post-Depression in Southwest Oklahoma in a very poor family. He has thoughts and voices in his head he can only deal with by writing them down. His family does little to help him, and his friends often give poor advice. This is the story of a young man whose misfortunes lead him to only one ending.
Lori
The Briar Club by Kate Quinn
I felt the beginning dragged, and narration by the house was not needed. I felt like it was trying to copy narration by death in THE BOOK THIEF. I enjoyed her other books more. I liked it; I didn’t love it.
sherry
The Mathematician's Shiva by Stuart Rojstaczer
Did not hold my interest. Very repetitive.
Tessa
Four Seasons in Rome by Anthony Doerr
Subtitle: On Twins, Insomnia, and the Biggest Funeral in the History of the World. This is Doerr’s memoir of a year he spent as a fellow at the American Academy of Arts and Letters. The award came with a studio in which to write, an apartment, and a stipend. And, of course, the experience of a year in Rome. I was completely delighted by his recollections.
Sandy
Hillbilly Elegy by J. D. Vance
Really enjoyed reading about the life of the candidate for Vice President. Saw him speaking on television today and really enjoyed that, too. Everyone should read this book!! And watch the movie.
Barbara
Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano
An engrossing read, HELLO BEAUTIFUL by Ann Napolitano, has been compared to the classic LITTLE WOMEN. Indeed, it does present four sisters who each struggle to get through life, plus additional characters who weave in and out of the storyline. The voices of three characters primarily move the plot along. The many themes of love, loss, neglect, determination, stubbornness, sisterhood, family, parenthood, pain, and some joy fill the pages in this well-written, character-driven story. A rather somber story but moving, with some uplifting moments. My other reaction while reading is that it evoked memories of Kingsolver's THE POISONWOOD BIBLE, which also portrays sisters, parents, love, loss, and perseverance in the face of adversity.
Kim
Two Wars and a Wedding by Lauren Willig
This historical fiction captures a small forgotten event of American history that made a huge impact on future war efforts. The story follows Betsy as she struggles to be allowed to attend university, join archeological digs and even volunteer as a nurse in war efforts because she is female. The story retells the loss and tragedies of the invasion of Greece 1886 and the Spanish invasion of Cuba 1898. Leaders reluctance to allow women to nurse the casualties caused endless deaths. It is a long, factual read.
Anita
The Last Caretaker by Jessica Strawser
Katie is divorced, and her friend, Bess, offers her a job as a resident caretaker at a nature preserve. She accepts. However, something feels off, and when a terrified woman comes one night looking for a safe place to hide, Katie is starting to think there is something wrong with this situation. A very good mystery that keeps your interest.
Wanda
The Guest Room by Chris Bohjalian
This is a riveting novel with many surprises. A page-turner that I could not put down!
