This contest period's winners were Abby M. from Morristown, NJ; Kathleen P. from Saint John, IN; and Sally C. from Brentwood, CA. Each received a copy of HERE ONE MOMENT by Liane Moriarty and THE NIGHT WE LOST HIM by Laura Dave.
Anita
The Girl Who Kicked The Hornet's Nest by Stieg Larsson
This was the third book in the trilogy that began with THE GIRL WITH THE DRAGON TATTOO. As the book begins, Lisbeth Salander is in a Swedish hospital with a bullet in her head. The question is will she survive and will she have brain damage. If she survives she will have to stand trial for three murders. I liked this book as much as the other two. However I had difficulty keeping track of all the characters with Swedish names.
Tessa
Out of the Dust by Karen Hesse
5 stars and a heart! Hesse can say so much in so few words. This is an extraordinary work of fiction, written entirely in verse. It's an emotionally evocative story of growing up in the harshness of poverty and tragedy, set during the Oklahoma Dust Bowl of the Great Depression.
Claire
Someone Is Always Watching by Kelley Armstrong
The premise was intriguing with the sci-fi elements lending themselves well to suspense and high tension, but more could have been done with it. It ended up feeling a bit shallow to me.
Sandy
Ask For Andrea by Noelle West Ihli
Meghan, Brecia, and Skye have one thing in common. They were all murdered by the same man. Meghan, Brecia, and Skye might be dead but they are not gone. They've found each other and they won't rest until they find a way to stop him. This is a very unusual story and I really enjoyed it.
Rose
The Lost Bookshop by Evie Woods
In Dublin, a young boy is enchanted by a charming bookshop. He is told a story by Martha about how the bookstore came to be, and through the story we learn about Martha and Henry in the current day, and Opaline from 1921, and how they are connected. It is a charming story, with some heartache and some surprising twists. I really enjoyed it, especially the magical elements.
Rose
One Fatal Mistake by Tom Hunt
3.5 rounded to 4 stars. One night, Joshua, 18, makes a huge mistake. While at the Hawkeye Wildlife Management Reserve, he kills a man and then leaves the scene, not calling the police. Meanwhile, Amber, Ross, and Shane make rob a bank. As they escape, they cross paths with Joshua, who has returned to the scene. The crooks take Joshua and his family hostage and all of their lives are in danger. I think the book started off strong, but then got a bit too much and weakened towards the end. However, I still may go back and read more of this author's work, as I did enjoy the story.
Rose
Behold the Monster: Confronting America's Most Prolific Serial Killer by Jillian Lauren
Jillian Lauren wrote a letter to Sam Little, hoping to interview him in prison. She found herself becoming his confidante and getting him to confess to a multitude of murders. He is believed to have murdered 93 women. Fortunately, a few of his targeted victims were able to escape. Jillian worked together with law enforcement to solve many more murders, attributing them to Sam Little than originally suspected. This is a well-researched book, full of forensic information, but also gruesome in that it recounts many of Little's stories about how he went after his victims and killed them. If you enjoy true crime, you might enjoy this, but it was bit gruesome for me.
Rose
The Last Woman in the Forest by Diane Les Becquets
A young woman is killed by a charismatic man. This begins the novel - a warning to listen to your instincts. Later, Marian Engström is working with rescue dogs to help protect endangered wildlife. She travels to northern Alberta and is mentored by Tate. She falls in love with him, although another team member warns her of getting romantically involved with other team members. Later, they are assigned different locations, and Marian receives news that Tate has been killed by a bear. Marian is devastated, and starts to doubt that Tate is the man she loved. She works together with Nick to determine if Tate could possibly be the killer in the unsolved murders. She doesn't want to believe her lover could be evil. This is a terrifying story.
Ina
An Unfinished Love Story by Doris Kearns Goodwin
Excellent reflection on pivotal events of the sixties told through the lens of an observer with a front row seat. A beautiful love story of a couple looking back on their accomplishments and shared history as they know their time together is coming to a close.
Jeanne
Adam & Evie’s Matchmaking Tour by Nora Nguyen
ADAM & EVIE'Ss MATCHMAKING TOUR by Nora Nguyen begins as Adam and Evie set off as strangers on a matchmaking journey through Vietnam, both for different personal reasons, but the same end goal, to find true love. It’s a delightful story of two people who are taken aback with each other’s unique individual personalities. It’s a charming, delightful story of how two people can eventually find their way to each other in a remarkable imperfect, yet perfect love story in a heartwarming way that will pull on your heart strings. The author did a good job developing and creating these two unique, special people.
Teresa
You Are Here by David Nicholls
Michael and Marnie take a hike through the beautiful, challenging English countryside. He is an experienced hiker trying to come to terms with his wife’s leaving him, while she is a thirty-something woman trying to take the first step from living in a rut to living again. They don’t care for each other — until they do.
Nancy
An Unfinished Love Story by Doris Kearns Goodwin
Excellent recounting of the ‘60s and ‘70s when Goodwin and her husband were enmeshed in the political worlds of JFK and LBJ.
Aileen
The Covenant of Water by Abraham Vergese
I loved this epic story. We meet the matriarch of a family we stay over 70 years at the age of 12 as she journeys to her future husband (42 yrs old) by boat with her mother. The story is set in Parambil, India and starts in 1900 and spans to 1977. We follow richly-developed characters who are all connected through time. I loved this story. The writing is impeccable and it will stay with me for a long time.
peg
Spirit Crossing by William Kent Krueger
Familiar characters in a new mystery make this an automatic purchase.
Dale
If I Had Your Face by Frances Cha
I had a hard time following, it seemed to be all over the place with the characters.
Michelle
Imperfect: A story about Love, Courage, and Perseverance by Katy Motiey
Based on true events, this novel is a compelling story of bravery, perseverance, fortitude, and ultimately love. With great pacing, Motiey starts with the courageous journey of her mother, "Vida" who faces the tragic loss of her husband, and then unexpectedly, the real threat of her children being taken away from her by her in-laws in Iran.
Darlene
The Summer Place by Jennifer Weiner
A great summer read with lots of interesting characters and twisted plots.
Michelle
All the Colors of the Dark by Chris Whitaker
Definite 5 star. I was hooked from page one and entranced to the very end. This is what I would classify as a literary thriller with the emphasis on literary, similar to Tim Johnston’s DESCENT. The writing was excellent, crisp, yet just enough detail to pack a punch. One of the best parts was that it’s made up of short chapters, often one or two pages, three or four at most. It kept you ripping through the pages and chapters. Easy to keep going. Just one more page, two more chapters..Just as important, the story was unique, the characters so memorable, ones that stay with you for their color, their flaws, their heartache. And not just the central characters. Some of my favorites were the side characters like Sammy. Many characters to love.
Judith
What Have You Done? by Shari Lapena
This was one of the best thriller books I have read by Shari Lapena. It takes place in a country town in Vermont with the murder of a local teenage girl is found dead in a hayfield. The mysterious journey takes place after what happened. That is the basis of the to determine who and why this happened. Solid thriller and I could not put down this book.
Jane
Crazy to Leave You by Marilyn Simon Rothstein
Was really looking forward to reading a book about a 41-year-old woman (a refreshing change from the usual young women). She finally got down to a size 12 and then gets jilted even before she makes it down the aisle. He didn't even bother to call her or tell her in person. He texted her sister Stephanie saying he wasn't emotionally ready (he was 41 too). Of course there was a romantic interest in Rudy Cohen, her driver, after she fractured her wrist in an accident, coming back from a client, who was her advertising agency's driver. This book was comedic and sort of sad at the same time. Poor Lauren, 41, feels like she will never find a man at her age again.
Jayme
Address Unknown by Katherine Kressmann Taylor
ADDRESS UNKNOWN by Kathrine Kressmann Taylor is a brilliant anti-Nazi work of fiction. Written in 1938 before the outbreak of WWII, Taylor showcases in letters between two old friends how someone "drinks the Koolaide" of political propaganda and forsakes friendship and love to follow the charismatic craziness of a new leader (Hitler). This is a must-read for history lovers.
Jayme
The Orphans of Davenport: Eugenics, the Great Depression, and the War Over Children's Intelligence by Marilyn Brookwood
A fascinating and eye-opening account of the history of early child development and the fight between the eugenics (nature) and environmental (nurture) ideologies on how intelligence is shaped in children. It is amazing how what we take for granted, and common sense in child development was still questioned in the 1980s. I have wondered why we don't have orphanages in America anymore - now I know.
barbara
Counterfeit by Kirstin Chen
Very interesting story outlining how two well-educated Asian women came up with an elaborate plan to become successful at marketing counterfeit goods. Also interesting is that the story is written without using any inverted commas "indicating a person is speaking".
Elizabeth
Shelterwood by Lisa Wingate
Interesting and unexpected.
MH
Ward D by Freida McFadden
Scariest book I’ve read in a long time! A resident doctor is spending the night on the psycho ward, complete with isolation wards, a patient from her past, and a cute doctor. Plus her ex-boyfriend. As the night goes on, there is no cell service and the electricity goes off, resetting the door code and leaving them with no exit.
Melissa
The Briar Club by Kate Quinn
Enjoyed learning about each character’s unique story and why they were at the Briar House. I liked how the author connected the stories together and the surprise ending with Grace and her story.
Connie
The Women by Kristin Hannah
A story about a woman who served in some terrible situations in Vietnam but when returning home was not recognized for her service as a woman.
Wanda
The Women by Kristin Hannah
I must say, I have read many books but this is by far the best yet! What a great read, immense courage and wisdom. Love the history - a must-read.
Luella
A Harvest of Hearts by Andrea Eames
Was an intriguing fantasy. It has all the things you need - sorcerer, sorceresses, magic, fire and smoke. It's also an accidental love story. Good read. Well written.
Nancy
Worst Case Scenario by T. J. Newman
4.5 stars. As with Newman’s first two books, the initial setting is a commercial aircraft. In this book, we quickly move beyond that incident to a rapidly unfolding disaster on the ground. Multiple characters are developed as they deal with an unimaginable challenge resulting from the crash. The book is a pretty quick read but had me on the edge of my chair and was pulling on my heart strings throughout.
Shelley
Yellowface by R. F. Kuang
Well-written book about author angst and the challenges of publishing a successful book. I found the main character so unlikable that it became difficult to continue. If this had not been a choice of my book club, I might have not finished this novel.
Francisca
Good Night, Irene by Luis Alberto Urrea
This book of historical fiction is based on the life experiences of Urrea’s mother, who served as a Red Cross “Donut Dolly” during World War II. I have read many books by Urrea, so I knew he could write, but I was almost speechless at the end of this book. Whatever you do, do NOT skip the author’s note at the end where he relates how it took him some twenty years to come to grips with and write this novel as a testament to his mother’s experiences. This is truly a love letter to his mother.
Marylyn
Spirit Crossing by William Kent Krueger
Another good Cork O'Connor story with great character development, as always. I am a bit sad to know the Cork O'Conner series will be ending, but I'm sure this great author will have much to offer in the future.
LisaMarie
The God of the Woods by Liz Moore
It is a thriller full of secrets and lies. It has compelling characters. It draws you into these people and it has suspense, gender dynamics in the 1950 to 1970 of the social, class, gender dynamics that impacted women of terrible tragedy. It keeps you engaged keeps you guessing. I really enjoyed.
Jan
The Art Thief by Michael Finkel
What an amazing book! The research that went into the writing was stellar. For those who know some of the European museums and churches, it will bring back fond memories.
Nonie
Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt
Loved the perspective of the octopus, Marcellus.
Michele
Their Surprise Amish Reunion by Jocelyn McClay
Elizabeth thought she had lost her true love years before and lives her life with church and the restaurant she manages as her life blood. Then Moses returns and buys the restaurant. Can they work together or will the past push them further away? Will Elizabeth ever have love again?
Denise
The God of the Woods by Liz Moore
I really like Liz Moore's style of writing. She keeps the reader engaged in the story by introducing lots of interesting characters. I enjoyed reading about the wealthy family and how money was the most important thing driving their life choices. I could picture all of the settings from Miss Moore's colorful descriptions. I will anxiously await her next book.
Sheree
The Lost Apothecary by Sarah Penner
We are reading this at my book group. This is the second time I read it and it was okay, but it wouldn't have been something I would have read again. I didn't bond with the characters so I didn't like it as much.
Karen
The Days I Loved You Most by Amy Neff
A beautiful look at long term marriage and older love. It left my heart full.
Pam
All the Colors of the Dark by Chris Whitaker
Excellent pacing, great character development and intriguing story. This one is a winner.
Karen
How the Light Gets In by Joyce Maynard
Loved the continuing saga of Eleanor and family. It is real. It is poignant and will stay with you for a long time. Loved the writing and the flow of character.
Meredith
The Grey Wolf by Louise Penny
Another wonderful book by Louise Penny! Great storyline that is full of excitement from the very beginning. Louise is able to draw you in to a story in a very easy way, and keep you interested throughout the book. Three cheers for THE GREY WOLF!
Beth
Table for Two by Amor Towles
One of our most popular authors, such wonderful descriptions and stories. Makes for a lively discussion.
Linda
Fellowship Point by Alice Elliott Dark
Book club selection last month, about the friendship between two women (for over 80 years) set in Maine and Philly. We recommend it.
Aida
Memphis by Tara M. Stringfellow
Great book.
Marianne
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon
Martha was a courteous and dedicated woman!
Frank
Babel by R. F. Kuang
A thoroughly enjoyable experience. This book reads like the whole HARRY POTTER series wrapped up in one novel that cuts the reader's imagination with a jagged edge. My summer was extraordinary because I read this book.
Dorothy
Three Can Keep a Secret by M. E. Hilliard
Excellent stand-alone book. Recommend starting with AN UNKINDNESS OF RAVENS, which is the first book in the Greer Hogan series. I enjoyed all the previous books. This one is about another murder in a small upstate New York town. Greer is a research librarian at the local library who has a knack for discovering the stories behind the story. She has helped the local police to solve murders. At the same time she is haunted by the mysterious murder of her husband Dan several years ago while they lived in New York City. I recommend this book as well and the whole series to date.
Linda
Fresh Water for Flowers by Valerie Perrin
Violette is traumatized by tragic events including the death of her 7-year-old daughter. But she's resilient, finding solace and purpose as a cemetery keeper. She is contented with her simple life and small circle of friends. But, of course, life is unpredictable. The plot includes love stories, a mystery, etc. I felt a sense of appreciation for simple (and also unexpected) pleasures after reading this novel. One to savor.
Barb
The Rose Arbor by Rhys Bowen
I think I have read all of Bowen's books (various series). Always good.
Cindee
The Spy Coast by Tess Gerristen
I loved this book and all of the characters! Perhaps because I am about the age of most of the characters, I really enjoyed them stepping back into their previous lives as spies. A bit of love always adds to the intrigue!
jane
Trust Her by Flynn Berry
Sequel to NORTHERN SPY. Two sisters deal with the aftermath of having been in the IRA and informers. Northern Ireland is not a safe place.
Ruthanne
The Return of Ellie Black by Emiko Jean
A girl returns after being missing for two years, but the mystery is not solved. The detective working on the case keeps digging for the truth and the answer to what really happened.
Kat
Back Spin by Harlan Coben
I love this series. A man on a golf course lost the game due to the caddie giving him the wrong club. Years later he played the same course again only this time his son was kidnapped. They sent the boys finger to make sure he didn't win this time too. Myron solved the case of both the murder and the kidnapping.
Beth
The God of the Woods by Liz Moore
This was a great who-dun-it but also a great character study and survival in the woods story, as well as a portrait of the rich and how they think different rules apply to them.
Rebecca
The Berry Pickers by Amanda Peters
As Native Canadian Indians travel each year to pick blueberries in the fields of Maine, 1962 is extremely different and difficult for the family of Ruthie. This four-year-old vanishes, and years of searching and hoping lead to nothing. Concurrently, Norma, the child of a wealthy Maine family, grows up smothered by an overly protective mother. She has dreams of a campfire with a woman whose face she never manages to see standing before her. What is the relationship between these two lives?
Wanda
Dinners with Ruth by Nina Totenberg
Choice for our book club. Tried to read it when it first came out but could not get into. This time reading was going better and I learned a lot, which I like.
Laura
Same As It Ever Was by Claire Lombardo
This is the story of a woman, Julia, who comes from a not so great background, but finds love, friendship, children and other things including a privileged life in the suburbs of Chicago. The book pops back and forth between now and then (then being early motherhood and her own childhood). It's a good story that feels like real life.
Kathleen
The Secret Book of Flora Lea by Patti Callahan Henry
This book really draws the reader into the characters' lives and keeps the reader's interest. Excellent.
Rosa
You Are Here by David Nicholls
This delightful book is classic David Nicholls. Witty, thought-provoking, and thoroughly relatable. Michael is a high school geography teacher whose wife Natasha has just left him. Marnie is a divorced copy editor who has taken to staying at home where she is most comfortable. Cleo, their friend in common, loves them both and want them to go on with their lives, so she invites them and two other friends to go on a walking holiday in the English countryside with her and her teenage son Anthony. The writing is laugh-out-loud funny but also beautiful and bittersweet. Loved it.
Kathleen
A Calamity of Souls by David Baldacci
Excellent book, though more in the style of John Grisham. I couldn't put it down.
Jill
The Beekeeper of Aleppo by Christy Lefteri
This story follows Syrian natives Nuri and Afra as they escape Syria during the recent war. Nuri is a beekeeper whose wife has been blinded by tragedy, and the book explores the aftereffects of wartime trauma on the characters. We see the dangers they encounter on their journey and their journey towards healing and hope for the future. It is based on the author's experiences working at a refugee camp in Athens Greece. A moving, well-written story. I highly recommend this book.
Sheri
College Girl, Missing: The True Story of How a Young Woman Disappeared in Plain Sight by Shawn Cohen
Determined reporter-turned-investigator Shawn Cohen relays his years of covering the disappearance of Indiana University student, Lauren Spierer. Even though Spierer's disappearance garnered national attention in 2011, her body has never been recovered. Cohen doggedly pursues law enforcement officials and Lauren's friends, who are now in their 30s living full lives, to discover the truth. Cohen also stayed close with Lauren's parents for the last 13 years and the interviews with them are heartbreaking. COLLEGE GIRL, MISSING is a gripping narrative that will have you questioning in disbelief the fact that not a trace of Lauren was ever found.
Lynnette
Lark and Termite by Jayne Anne Phillps
Stream of consciousness and feelings important in this story. Just read and feel what the characters feel.
Joanne
The Hidden Life of Cecily Larson by Ellen Baker
Historical fiction that includes dual timelines as well as dual points of view. Plot includes DNA surprises, adoption, and abandonment, though it does have a happy ending.
Donna
The God of the Woods by Liz Moore
i really enjoyed THE GOD OF THE WOODS by Liz Moore. The story is about a 13-year-old girl who goes missing from a campground. She's from the wealthy family who owns the camp and we find out her brother also was missing in the woods 6 years earlier. There were enough twists and turns to keep me guessing until the final chapter.
Betty Jo
This Here Flesh: Spirituality, Liberation, and the Stories That Make Us by Cole Arthur Riley
Using stories from her grandmother and father, the author tells the journey of becoming her authentic self.
Nancy
That Librarian by Amanda Jones
Fascinating and yet it is shameful that a librarian should be subjected to such evil and unfounded attacks. Don't think it can't happen in your community, it happened in mine, which is in another state. It's like they have a playbook.
Sharon
Spirit Crossing by William Kent Krueger
Another really good William Kent Krueger book dealing with the plight of many of the Native Americans, especially young girls who are trafficked as well as the degradation of the land, often sacred sites to native Americans, by large corporations, especially in this case, oil pipelines. I loved the use of the spiritual aspects of the story, of how even (and maybe especially) children have insights into evil and good.
Rose
The Invited by Jennifer McMahon
Hattie Breckenridge was hung and killed years earlier by the townspeople who considered her a witch. Now there is a legend that she haunts the town. Helen and Nate purchase the property where Hattie lived and died. They are building their own home, and Helen brings home materials to use in the home. When she begins to hear voices and see ghosts, she believes the materials are encouraging the spirits to speak to her. A young teen, Olive, a neighbor, originally doesn't want Helen and Nate there, but eventually enlists them to help her search for her mother. What none of them realize is that the danger is in someone they don't expect. A different sort of ghost story. A lot of ghosts and spirits. I enjoyed the story.
Linda
One Last Gift by Emily Stone
One of the best books I’ve read! Tom and Cassie went to live with their aunt after their parents were killed and they looked out for each other. Then Sam joined the pack. His dad had left and his mum had to work long hours. The children grew up together and Sam had been in love with Cassie. Yet when he kissed her, he was afraid and backed away. They still love each other. Can they have a chance together?
Debbie
The Rural Diaries: Love, Livestock, and Big Life Lessons Down on Mischief Farm by Hilarie Burton
I love farms so I listened to this book on Libby. She’s an actress so in truth I wasn’t expecting too much, but it was actually good. I enjoyed how much work she did on the farm and for the community. Also family struggles from a miscarriage. Well worth a read or listen.
Dianne
The Guncle by Stephen Rowley
Story deals with death in a tender, humorous and genuine manner. Uncle Patrick takes in his niece and nephew after their mother, his best friend from college dies, and his brother, their father, enters rehab for a drug addiction problem. Over the course of three months each one deals with loss, and pick up the pieces of their lives.
Sean
Wrong Place Wrong Time by Gillian McAllister
Author Gillian McAllister turns the "Groundhog Day" idea on its head as protagonist Jen witnesses her son murder a man in cold blood only to awaken the previous morning. The book takes some interesting turns and is loaded with mysteries and red herrings. The characters are likeable and developed well. I really enjoyed Jen's voice and how she handled the situation. The ending was satisfying and I got everything I needed from this. I did have a slight issue with what I'll call the procedural aspects of one of the huge story elements but it didn't take away much from the read. Overall, an entertaining, twisty read.
Melissa
Desperate Deadly Widows by Kimberly Belle
The widows come together when one of their own is under suspicion for murdering the mayor. I can’t remember having more fun listening to an audiobook! The widows are smart, tough and snarky. Krystle was by far my favorite character and narrator!
Melissa
A Novel Way to Die: A Bookish Cafe Mystery by Harper Lin
I have been loving this cozy mystery series since being introduced to Maggie Bell, the quiet, introverted bookseller. Slowly we have watched as Maggie begins to come out of her shell, so to speak, and in this book Maggie has finally found her voice and thank goodness because she is being linked to a murder that occurred outside of the little cottage where Maggie lives. There are quite a few twisty surprises that made for a very suspenseful investigation. I highly recommend this fun, bookish cozy mystery series.
Liz
People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry
Alex and Poppy met in college. They are total opposites. Both are from the same small town, he loves it and never wants to leave; she love excitement and life in the Big Apple. After graduation they remain friends through texts and emails, except once a year they take a platonic vacation together. Until on one trip things go wrong. Two years later Poppy decides to try and put things right again with one more vacation. I felt this was a very repetitive story and could be shortened by quite a bit. Finding out what happened on that ill-fated vacation was a total letdown and I just wanted the story to be over.
Jean
Animal Dreams by Barbara Kingsolver
The main theme of this book is characters who are dealing with unfinished business in their lives. It's set in a small, isolated town near even smaller towns. Many of the characters are Native Americans. You will get an insight into what their lives are really like, quite different from the way they are normally portrayed in movies and TV. As in all Kingsolver books I've read, there is much more detailed description than I prefer. But the dialog and the characters are real and well written.
Barbara
Jackpot Summer by Elyssa Friedland
Having really enjoyed her LAST SUMMER AT THE GOLDEN HOTEL, I looked forward to reading Elyssa Friedland's latest, JACKPOT SUMMER. Not quite as absorbing but still enjoyable. In it, Friedland again explores the family dynamics of a second generation of siblings struggling with their mid- and almost mid-life crises, careers, loves, children, aging parents. The premise, obviously, asks how well will they handle their winning of a big lottery. Having to work together, having to admit failures, having to believe in themselves - all reminded me of the hotel novel. The siblings' characters are well-drawn, if predictable. The premise does make the reader think! But best of all is, again, the author's depiction of sense of place!
Paula
All the Colors of the Dark by Chris Whitaker
The book was a bit long, but so captivating. I wasn’t expecting it to span so many years based on the tease from the front cover. Patch and Saint were my favorite characters, but there were so many others that filled the storyline. Selected this book for my book club in a few weeks and can’t wait for our discussion.
Luella
Neon Prey by John Sandford
Great read. Fast paced, lots of action. Good story, great characters. Highly recommend.
Susan
Bits and Pieces: My Mother, My Brother, and Me by Whoopi Goldberg
Whoopi Goldberg narrates the audiobook version of her biography. She covers her life from growing up with her brother, Clyde, and her single mother, Emma, to present day. Growing up as Caryn Johnson, she attended a Catholic school before dropping out of high school. Whoopi talks about sneaking out of the house (and getting caught,) being a teen mom, becoming a grandmother at 34, and her path to film and television. Much of credit for her success is given to her mother, who died 10 years ago. Whoopi is the ideal narrator, making the listener feel as if they're sitting across from her, whether she's being serious or laughing out loud. Highly recommended.
Abby
A Doll's House by Henrik Ibsen
Read this one for my Classics Book Club - we meet every other month. This was a reread for me - from back in high school. It's not a true favorite, but it is interesting to read how progressive Ibsen was with his female characters. If you are looking for a classic about the roles of women, give this one a try.
Kelley
God Save Texas by Lawrence Wright
Excellent summary of all aspects of Texas, quite interesting.
Janice
The Paper Palace by Miranda Cowley Heller
Elle, the central character in this novel, seemed to truly love and value her husband Peter, but not enough to stop herself from numerous sexual encounters with her life-long best friend Jonas. The first time this happened they were just outside a cabin in the forest. On the other side of that cabin wall they were leaning against were both their spouses and her children. I get the turn-on, doing something forbidden within close proximity of those you are betraying, the thrill of keeping from getting caught. But I was left just thinking and feeling - yuck! Peter was my favorite character, I kept cheering for him. I won this book from Bookreporter.com. My thanks to them for the chance to read and review this novel.
Cheryl
Mark Twain: A Life by Ron Powers
It’s a long book, 627 pages, starting at Twain's growing up in Hannibal, MO. Powers includes quotes from Twain and seems to meander through his life. Through the death of his closest brother to his disgust with his older brother, Twain comes across as very self centered and always angry. He invests in projects that don’t work out and wastes a fortune then he quickly writes a book and recovers. He eventually loses three of his children and outlives his wife by a few years.
Dvora
Our Share of Night by Mariana Enriquez
Well written.
Debbie
Lioness: Golda Meir and the Nation of Israel by Francine Klagsbrun
Great historical depiction.
Donna
We Burn Daylight by Bret Anthony Johnston
WE BURN DAYLIGHT by Bret Anthony Johnston is a compelling coming-of-age tale which held me captive from the very first page. This literary page-turner was inspired by the siege of the Branch Davidian compound, Waco, Texas back in 1993. Its flawless writing and atmospheric feel had me picking this book up every spare minute that I had. I thoroughly enjoyed it and highly recommend.
Diane
The Whispers by Ashley Audrain
Not a story that could be made up! A must-read.
Mary
Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone by Benjamin Stevenson
Clever narrator!
Pattie
It’s Elementary by Elise Bryant
It had me guessing. Very clever story.
Doraimis
I Am Watching You by Teresa Driscoll
My rating is 3.5 stars. The plot was slow but I was very surprised by the ending.
Sally
Breaking the Dark by Lisa Jewell
I had a difficult time getting past the superhero aspect of the novel. New character for this author’s style.
Laura
The Glassmaker by Tracy Chevalier
I have been to Venice and I felt like I was there while reading the book.
jan
The Perfect Couple by Elin Hilderbrand
I thought this book was the best in the Nantucket series; I could not figure out the ending until it was revealed at the very end, the first time I read it. I also wanted to reread it before I watched the TV series on Netflix. It did not get good reviews on Rotten Tomatoes. However, I liked it regardless.
Ruthanne
Family Reservations by Liza Palmer
An enjoyable contemporary read. The story is about a women who is a highly successful restaurateur and her three adult daughters, all of whom hold various roles in the business. I liked how the author gave depth to each character as well as an engaging plot.
Carla
The Sky Fisherman by Craig Lesley
A coming-of-age story set in a small town in the American Northwest. Warm, memorable characters encountering credible real-life challenges. A young boy learns more than just skills working for his uncle; he learns that some of the "family stories" are not as accurate as he had assumed. Masterful writing. I found myself highlighting sections that state truths about life and about all of us mere mortals.
Sue
Shark Heart by Emily Habeck
Good writing but plot was not for me.
Sue
The Women by Kristin Hannah
A beautifully-researched story of women I grew up with and went to school with who sacrificed so much during the Vietnam war.
Jana
Slow Dance by Rainbow Rowell
Loved, loved this book!
Marianne
The Paris Widow by Kimberly Belle
Suspenseful.
Rosemary
When Women Ran Fifth Avenue by Julie Satow
This tells the story of the rise of major department stores in the 1940s and 50s and the women who stepped in to run them. It began when men went to war and women to work in the 1940s and follows the careers of Hester Odlem of Bonwit Teller, Dorothy Shaver of Lord & Taylor, Geraldine Stuly of Henri Bendel and Beatrice Fox Averbad of G. Fox.
Carol
The Women by Kristin Hannah
Loved this book!
Susan
Go As a River by Shelley Read
I enjoyed the different characters. Read did a great job of character and plot development.
sandy
The First Ladies by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray
This takes place during the term of Franklin Delano Roosevelt and describes what his wife Eleanor and her new friend Mary McLeod Bethune were able to make happen with and without his help. Eleanor becomes a controversial First Lady for her outspokenness, particularly on civil rights. And when she receives threats because of her strong ties to Mary, it only fuels the women’s desire to fight together for justice and equality.
Susan
Only the Beautiful by Susan Meissner
This is a very interesting and upsetting novel about what it means to become orphaned and dependent on the family your father worked for, having that trust betrayed and being placed, pregnant, in the custody of the state. It’s about a rare disease called synesthesia where sounds produce colors as well as being heard as a sound. And it about eugenics, both in Germany and in the United States. It’s about family and redemption. And it will make you smile and cry.
Diana
When Women Were Dragons by Kelly Barnhill
I am rounding up from 4.5 for this excellent book. I really enjoyed it and was not certain what it would be like before reading. I loved the way she interspersed scientific and governmental documents in between the narrative chapters. I was fascinated to see the reflections of our culture through this period of time with an alternative history. Was it perfect - of course not. Does it include everything that everyone would like it to include - of course not. However, it was a fabulous story and was a fun twist on historical fiction.
Sandy
The Burning by Linda Castillo
I look forward to her books.
Gerri
Here One Moment by Liane Moriarty
Her writing is beautiful, and so insightful regarding human relationships.
Gerrie
The Night We Lost Him by Laura Dave
Great suspense expertly interwoven with family drama!
donna
The Dream Daughter by Diane Chamberlain
Engaging read. Fast-paced and kept my attention.
Ivy
The Silence of the Choir by Mohamed Mbougar Sarr
Immigrants, aka refugees or migrants in Altino are referred to as ragazzi. In this small town outside of Sicily, many welcome them, while others detest and reject the Africans, who are there waiting for their dream.
Alicia
Murder on the Page by Daryl Wood Gerber
I was excited to see a new series from this author. It combines two of my favorite themes - food and books. I'd love to attend a party themed after my favorite books. There is a never-ending list of possibilities, and adding quotes from the featured book as a chapter heading is great. In future installments I'm hoping to get to see some of my own favorites highlighted and discovering some new, too. With the action revolving around the bookstore, there's lots of shout-outs to other authors/books/series, like a book recommendation inside the story. I was invested in the characters and the mystery itself. There's a sweet ending and I'm looking forward to seeing how everything goes. And of course there are the must-try recipes!
Diane
Overkill by Sandra Brown
Very interesting. Included mystery and romance. It kept your interest throughout.
Nancy
The Rent Collector by Camron Wright
This book was chosen for one of my book clubs or I never would have read it. But I am so glad I did. I have seen poverty first-hand -- in the favelas near Rio de Janeiro and in the tributaries of the Amazon, but never to this extreme -- people who not only scour the Cambodian dumps for trash to recycle, but who actually live in the dump. The story is fiction, but based on a real family for whom, despite such desperate conditions, there is always hope. And a lesson we have been taught since childhood -- that education is the way out. A mother who will do anything for her child, another woman who seeks redemption, and a group of people who thrive when life tries to destroy them. A great read.
Cheryl
Saving Us by Katharine Hayhoe
Hayhoe, a climate scientist and evangelical Christian, develops ideas to help others better understand climate change and climate justice.
barbara
A Long Petal of the Sea by Isabel Allende
I was never a fan of historical fiction. However, this story that begins in the 30s and continues through the 90s, had me interested from the first few pages. This a story of a family displaced several times during the wars in Europe, facing hardship, leaving their country, their home, family and friends to escape to a safer life.
Kelly
Elon Musk by Walter Isaacson
Excellent description of a very interesting character in our country today.
Deby
The Wedding People by Alison Espach
Given that I'm at a similar crossroads in my life, this book hit home for me and I enjoyed reading along with Phoebe on her journey of enlightenment.
Melissa
The Grandmother by Jane E. James
After the murder of their mother, and the subsequent questioning of their father, nine-year-old Daisy and seven-year-old Alice are taken to stay with their grandmother whom they have never met. This is not your average sweet grandmother. This one has secrets that she will do everything in her power to keep them hidden. This is one grandma you do not want to mess with. This story moves along swiftly with a heavy dose of foreboding and suspense.
Melissa
The Hitchcock Hotel by Stephanie Wrobel
Since I have quite a few favorite Hitchcock movies, this title intrigued me right away and fortunately this book did not disappoint! Alfred has turned an old Victorian home into The Hitchcock Hotel, dedicated to his love for the Master of Suspense. On the hotel’s first anniversary, Alfred shuts down the hotel and invites his former best friends from college to help him celebrate. Alfred has not seen his former friends in sixteen years, not since they all betrayed him, and he has big plans for them. If the weekend should end with a dead body or two, then so be it. I loved the suspense and creativity of this story and was captivated from beginning to end.
Jeanne
Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books by Kirsten Miller
LULA DEAN’S LITTLE LIBRARY OF BANNED BOOKS by Kirsten Miller is an entertaining book that is full of humor, satire of the important relevance topic of banned books that is the subject of controversy in today’s society. Lula Dean sets out to take on the town as she attempts to have certain books banned and pulled from bookshelves. The author did a great job in masterfully creating the characters and weaving them into such a must-read, deeply emotional storyline. four.
Susan
Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books by Kirsten Miller
This book was a clever take on the serious subject of banned books and all of the topics that they represent. I really enjoyed seeing this story unfold and the reactions of the town residents as they visited the library for a “safe”read and ended up with a book on a topic they never would have dreamed of reading.
Nina
The Briar Club by Kate Quinn
I enjoyed the writer's style of spending a chapter on each character. She delved into their history and how they came to be the person they were.
Susan
The Wedding People by Alison Espach
I really enjoyed this book and it was different than I expected. The storyline was interesting and the characters were too. Usually, weddings are all about the happy couple getting married, not a suicidal uninvited guest.
Susan
The Bird Hotel by Joyce Maynard
What a story!! It begins with a woman who suffers great loss and then begins a journey to a place that makes me want to go there! The characters are wonderful and I am so glad I read it. I read one of her previous books COUNT THE WAYS and I loved that one, too. However, this one takes place in Central America. I will be honest, it took awhile to get my total attention but after that I was glued to this book.
Wanda
Spirit Crossing by William Kent Krueger
A beautifully-written book about Ojibway heritage and their lost missing girls. Saving Mother Earth from the pipeline which is something we all are aware of and are concerned with. This book is of love and support of families and also other issues kept secret due to an upcoming wedding in the family. Love Cork O’Conner series and this one did not disappoint! You are so right with your Bets On and this wonderful written beautiful storyline.
Patty
The Island of Missing Trees by Elif Shafak
This was a wonderful book. It has a dual time line narrative between the volatile time in Cyprus in the 1970s between Greeks and Turks. A teenage couple (one a Turkish Cypriot and one a Greek Cypriot) fall in love while living on the island and their story continues in the 2010s in London. The story is also told through the life and recollections of a fig tree.
Tessa
The Jasmine Project by Meredith Ireland
This was a cute rom-com with the family engineering a sort of “Bachelorette” competition for Jasmine Yap’s affections. They identify three likely candidates and watch carefully to see which one she will pick. But the road to happily ever after is full of obstacles. I liked that Ireland showed real growth in Jasmine’s character.
Laurie
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
The first half was slow, but the second half, wow! Laugh-out-loud funny at times. A few twists and turns. A great read.
Vesna
The Teacher by Freida McFadden
If you love twisted, mind-blowing, psychological thrillers, this one will not disappoint! Can't wait to discuss with my book club on Monday. Unlikable characters, some even loathsome, but you are sucked into this crazy story. The ending will have you shaking your head and asking yourself "What the heck did I just read" True to Frieda's fashion of writing, suspenseful, so crazy you will keep turning the pages to the wee hours of the morning.
Francisca
Give Me a Sign by Anna Sortino
Lilah and the other counselors at Camp Grey Wolf are in many ways typical teenagers. But, they must also navigate a hearing world as Deaf or hearing-impaired individuals. I really enjoyed this book. Sortino is Deaf and passionate about seeing diverse characters portrayed in the media. This is her debut novel.
Adrien
The Will of the Many by James Islington
THE WILL OF THE MANY is a fantasy, science fiction, dystopian, underdog story about an orphan named Vis. The world building in the novel is a fantastic backdrop for a politically driven story about obtaining power and control, as well as the unusual weaponry used to keep it. There are complex tests and trials throughout the book which amplify once Vis attends the prestigious Catenan Academy. I was so invested in this novel. Reading it for me was reminiscent of reading NARNIA, THE LORD OF THE RINGS, and HARRY POTTER. I cannot wait until spring of 2025 for the sequel to this amazing novel.
Lisa
All the Colors of the Dark by Chris Whitaker
Loved this book! Has a little bit of everything; mystery, friendship, love. Wonderfully spun tale!
Linda
Manner of Death by Robin Cook
A medical thriller that can have you questioning medicine and disease today.
Vizma
Last Summer at the Golden Hotel by Elyssa Friedland
4.5 stars. Accurate portrayal of old vs. new generations not understanding each other (goat yoga). Also a very sweet tribute to the days of the grand hotels in the Catskills.
Debbie
The Secret Life of Sunflowers by Marta Molnar
THE SECRET LIFE OF SUNFLOWERS by Marta Molnar fictionally explores the brothers Theo and Vincent van Gogh and Theo’s wife, Johanna van Gogh-Bonger. The parallel story captures a supposedly great-great niece of the van Goghs who has discovered Johanna’s diary and letters from the van Goghs. Emsley Wilson travels to Greenwich Village to prepare her beloved grandmother’s house for sale. In the process, Em finds a box with the diary and letters. The story jumps from the story of Em and Johanna with choppy movement. Of course, the story provides breath taking insight into an artist’s life. Em even discovers her mother’s biological father in the journey. Johanna’s narrative descends into too much artistic dialogue.
Susan
After Annie by Anna Quindlen
AFTER ANNIE is about grief, family, overcoming sadness, friends and the courage to move on. Don’t be afraid to read this book because of its sadness. Annie’s power of love and her voice in the heads of the people she loved helps to give them all the strength to move on. I loved all the characters in this story, and they really touched my heart.
Claudia
Clark and Division by Naomi Hirahara
This story follows the Ito family from a Japanese interment camp to Chicago where they are allowed to start their life over. The oldest daughter has gone ahead to help find an apartment and job. When the rest of the family arrives, they find out that Rose is dead. The rest of the story is how Aki, the younger daughter, searches for answers. Did Rose have an abortion, was it suicide or was she murdered? Interesting twist at the end.
Rose
Cattle Kate: The Controversial Life and Legend of the Wyoming Territory’s Most Famous Woman Outlaw by Charles River Editors
A short, but very interesting, account of the life of Ellen Watson, aka Cattle Kate. After leaving her first husband due to his abusive behavior, she later meets Jim Averell. They got a marriage license, but Ellen kept her name. Since she seemed to be single, both she and Averell were able to get land under the Homestead Act. Ellen saw the benefit of holding water rights, and she and Averell had adjoining land with control of about one mile of water access. This caused the Wyoming Stock Growers Association to target the couple. They accused her of being a prostitute and a cattle rustler. They decided to lynch the couple. This is the ONLY woman ever hung in Wyoming. The myth of her as an outlaw is perpetuated to this day, but it is a myth.
Rose
All the Colors of the Dark by Chris Whitaker
This is a book which will pull at all your emotions. Patch was born with only one eye. His mom bought him eye patches and told him to act like a pirate. He embraces this and is nicknamed Patch or the pirate. He meets a young girl, Saint, who lives with her grandmother and loves to read. Together they become best friends. Then, Patch at 13, in 1975, witnesses an abduction of Misty, daughter of wealthy parents. He saves Misty, but is captured. During his captivity, he meets Grace. After his escape, he searches for Grace for years. People think it is just his imagination but he is obsessed with finding her. In doing so, he uncovers a secret that some prominent people of the town were hiding. This is a story of obsession, friendship and love.
Emily
The Devil You Know by P. J. Tracy
I always enjoy P. J. Tracy's thrillers, which she cleverly spins with layers of twists and turns, and one wouldn't stop reading it until the end! THE DEVIL YOU KNOW is no exception where all that glitters is not gold. Under the veneer of flamboyance, something dark always lurks underneath.
Emily
The Other Family by Wendy Corsi Staub
More often than not, I gravitate towards Wendy Corsi Staub's thrillers that are always loaded with surprising twists and turns. In THE OTHER FAMILY, the Howells moves to Brooklyn for a fresh start. However, shortly after, strange things begin to happen. Soon, the family discovers some gruesome shocking secrets that are hidden in the house! And that's a wow factor for me!
Rose
You Were Always Mine by Christine Pride and Jo Piazza
A chance meeting between two women changes their lives forever. Cinnamon's marriage is crumbling due to her husband's dishonesty and mishandling of funds. She is sitting on a park bench when Daisy sits and speaks to her. Daisy and Cinnamon meet weekly, but then Daisy doesn't show. That is when Cinnamon hears a baby's cry. She reads a note that Daisy left the baby and wants Cinnamon to raise the child. This causes Cinnamon to examine her life as she fights to care for the baby and fight to keep her. Since the baby is White and Cinnamon is Black, she wonders if this will matter to her chances of keeping the child.
this story that looks at race, class, and family. Well done.
Rose
The Farm by Joanne Ramos
The Farm is a place where women are paid to come and live luxuriously while they are impregnated as surrogates for wealthy couples who want a child. I didn't like the way they treated these women like production so that the adoptive mothers didn't have to stop their careers to have a child. This book wasn't for me.
Rose
Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbitt
Winnie Foster meets the Tuck family who have drunk from a spring in Foster Woods. The Tucks now have eternal life, and they never age. They watch life go by, but they are stuck. They care for Winnie and protect her, but an unscrupulous man wants her family's land and tells Winnie's parents that she was kidnapped by the Tucks. When Mae Tuck gets arrested, Winnie has to make a decision. This is a story of lasting friendship and doing the right thing. A classic.
Marsha
Camino Winds by John Grisham
First of the series I was able to read. What better time to commit a murder than in the middle of a destructive hurricane? The bookstore owner and several fellow authors are determined to prove it was murder and not falling branches that killed Nelson. When his unpublished book reveals a nursing home and Medicaid scam, the FBI gets involved.
Liz
The Berry Pickers by Amanda Peters
Norma has had dreams as long as she can remember that seem more like memories. The house she grew up in has no pictures of her before the age of four. She has been told they were lost in a fire. Near the end of her mother’s life secrets are revealed and Norma is reeling from what the truth of her life might really be.
Kay
Alias Grace by Margaret Atwood
Long but riveting story.
Donna
Someone in the Attic by Andrea Mara
If you’re looking for a read that will have you terrified to be home alone at night, I’ve got you covered: SOMEONE IN THE ATTIC by Andrea Mara. Picture this: You’re home alone relaxing in a luxurious bubble bath having a glass or two of refreshing wine when you hear the attic hatch out in the hallway creaking open. Need I say more?! This chilling read has short chapters ending in cliffhangers which begged me to read “one more.” With its small cast of characters and their storylines, I was totally invested in the outcome, while being held completely in suspense. This is an ideal, creepy read for a spooky season.
Denise
When You See Her by Barbara Boehm Miller
A girl weighing 500+ pounds finds herself in a traveling circus. Not knowing how the world works & what to expect from people (let along an audience), her life evolves from isolation to companionship, from unappreciated and mistreated at home, to surviving in talented and creative ways on the road. Building friendships and togetherness, forming a family, self-acceptance, even love. A wonderful perspective of the oddities in life. How people perceive & treat those who are different from the norm. Raw emotions spill out on the page with characters that learn to “play up” their differences on stage in order to have work, earn a living and survive a life with few other options. Be prepared for difficult situations and characters to care about.
Becky
Falling by T. J. Newman
After you suspend logic, this thriller delivers thrills a minute and then some. The premise is simple. The bad guys have kidnapped a pilot’s family and want hm to crash his plane or they will kill his family. What follows is a relentless thrill ride as we travel along with the crew and innocent passengers. How can our brave pilot save both his family and his plane. And, of course, why do the bad guys want him to crash the plane anyway. The crew and bad guys are pretty standard characters. Jo, the head flight attendant, is actually a more well-drawn character than the pilot. It is obvious that the writer is extremely familiar with planes, the security systems on board and the flight attendants whose real job is to keep the passengers safe.
Susan
By Any Other Name by Jodi Picoult
Amazing character development and a plot that draws the reader in from the beginning. Loved the book!
Debbie
Lioness: Golda Meir and the Nation of Israel by Francine Klagsbrun
Good history book.
Rose
Majesty by Katharine McGee
This is a YA romance novel. I didn't read Book 1, so I didn't know the background of the characters. However, you quickly learn the different people. The main characters are Beatrice, who is now the queen because her beloved father died, and her sister, Samantha. Beatrice is due to marry Teddy to honor her father's wishes. However, Sam has feelings for Teddy, and Bea is in love with her guard, Connor. But, Bea feels an obligation to marry Teddy. So, she agrees to do it, which upsets her sister, who seeks to make Teddy jealous by getting together with someone else. Others try to gain the power of royalty in various ways - trying to date royals. The message of female power is stressed throughout the book, and it was nice to see growth.
Elizabeth
The Bee Sting by Paul Murray
Hard to get into but once you do it's very interesting.
Ann M
The Measure by Nikki Erlick
Takeaway: It's not about how long your string is, it's what you do with what you have been given. Quality over quantity.
Beth
All the Colors of the Dark by Chris Whitaker
An outstanding pick for my book club.
Dawn
The Briar Club by Kate Quinn
Although a lengthy novel, this story and its characters drew me in immediately and kept me craving more! It revolves around murder on Thanksgiving 1954, with each chapter focusing on a specific character, but manages to intertwine their stories as well, even that of the house itself. Kate Quinn always seems to do her homework, resulting in a well-researched, exquisitely detailed cast of characters that are easy to visualize and relate to, no matter how unique!
Jackie
All the Colors of the Dark by Chris Whitaker
This was a hard one to give an accurate number of stars. It is one of the most unusual stories I've ever read and finished. First I want to say the main two reasons I gave it 3 stars, rounded down, is because the way it was written. What I mean by that is that the sentences were very choppy and difficult to understand at times. I often had to read them more than once and sometimes just kept going without understanding. At first I thought it was me. But I see I'm not the only one. It would jump from one person's happenings to another without an intro as to whom we were "talking about". The chapters are very short so that actually helped a lot. The second reason is because there was nothing happy in this story.
Karen
The Chocolate Maker's Wife by Karen Brooks
This historical fiction tale set in Restoration England is a wonderful history of chocolate making and its place in society. The reader also follows the life of Rosamund in a plot that has many twists and turns.
Wanda
The Examiner by Janice Hallett
A compelling, intriguing book which is told strictly through emails and text messages from a group of students who are striving to complete their coursework for Royal Hastings University’s new Multimedia Master Arts Program. The examiner reviews their work and assessing progress during the course and then things go dangerously wrong! A page-turner and keeps you guessing all the way through! A must-read!
Jackie
A Fall of Marigolds by Susan Meissner
Emotional read but very well done. Wish present-day character had been more developed. Plan to check out other books by this author.
MH
The Lion Women of Tehran by Marjan Kamali
Wow! Impressive book. I realized how little Westerners know about life in other parts of the world, especially conditions for women. Ellie learns about how the “other half” lives when her mother is suddenly widowed and she becomes friends with Homa, whose life is totally different from hers. When Ellie’s mother remarries, we see a different lifestyle in Iran. With the overthrow of the Shah, life for women becomes repressive. When Ellie moves to America, another lifestyle is possible.
Jackie
None of This Is True by Lisa Jewell
l listened to the audio version and loved it!! I couldn't put it down. On the edge of my seat throughout the entire book. First book I've read of hers - I will definitely be checking out some more!!
Marilyn
Mad Honey by Jodi Picoult and Jennifer Finney Boylan
Can’t wait to discuss the twist and turns of this novel reflecting in our lives today. Is there justice?
Michelle
Of Women and Salt by Gabriela Garcia
I listened to the audio of this novel, and perhaps that is part of the reason I struggled a bit. I’m not a huge fan of fiction on audio; I prefer non-fiction, memoirs especially. I feel like there was a lot of important content and meaning deep in the thread and themes of this book, but it came across as very fragmented to me. I had trouble digesting the different storylines and characters so it didn’t grab me like I had hoped. Having heard the interview with the author, it now makes sense as I learned these were originally short stories that she pieced together into a novel. There are worthwhile themes about women and the Cuban culture that are worthwhile to read about. I may have had a better experience if I read the physical book.
Michelle
It Starts With Us by Colleen Hoover
A quick, lighter follow-up to IT ENDS WITH US. Did it need a sequel? Probably not. I’m a sucker for a happy ending though.
Peri
Becoming by Michelle Obama
I’m a little late to the party. Finally, I have read this book and it didn’t disappoint. This book and Mrs. Obama are highly relatable to my own feelings and life. She talks openly about her struggles with President Obama and the overwhelming nature of politics taking him away from his family. I see why she doesn’t want to run for president herself. As far as I’m concerned, the book only rated 4 stars because I thought it was too long. Many of the things she described were in too much detail. Also, I listened to her audiobook and she spoke too slowly and in some places in a boring tone.
Joanne
What Have You Done? by Shari Lapena
Wow! There were three possible choices for the bad guy and we were lead around with more and more clues. So, who did it? I did figure that we were being fed clues to lead us away from the real killer (and I was right). Sorry for the semi-spoiler. Excellent story. This author never disappoints.
Rosemary
A Death in Cornwell by Daniel Silva
Art restorer and former head of Israel's secret service, Gabriel Allon, learns that a friend, an art historian, was murdered. His investigation leads him to a diabolical plot of multi-billionaires, government officials, bankers and lawyers to save their clients from paying taxes by hiding assets.
With the usual twists and tuns of the plot and reemergence of old friends, he once again solves the case!
Laura
Tell Me Everything by Elizabeth Strout
I love revisiting all my favorite characters in Crosby, ME. Stories are life!
Richard N B
A Fatal Thaw by Dana Stabenow
Book number two in the mystery series featuring Aleut private investigator Kate Shugack. Stabenow writes a great thriller/mystery. I love the setting in a very rural part of Alaska and the way she incorporates some Aleut culture into the mix. Kate is a very strong woman and a marvelous lead character, and I just love her dog, Mutt (a Husky-wolf mix).
Shelley
James by Percival Everett
While this was a retelling of THE ADVENTURES OF HUCKLEBERRY FINN, JAMES gave me a new perspective on the strength and humanity of Jim. He was so clever at hiding his inner self while bravely fighting for Huck and the rest of his family. It was a moving story with themes that stay with me.
Barbara
The Sicilian Inheritance by Jo Piazza
Set in Sicily, this novel follows a rather unsympathetic protagonist dealing with motherhood, a broken marriage, and a failed career. Sara intends to claim her inheritance of Sicilian property so she can start over in her life. Unbeknownst to her, her Sicilian great-something grandmother led a very challenging life which ended violently. Piazza depicts a mystery which switches between present day to early 1900s. Moreover, Piazza portrays the very tough struggle Sicilian women (think all women) faced to be more than wives and mothers. Empowerment in the face of tradition and violent opposition. I found this book to be not very enjoyable, but I learned about that area and its history. Also, much about Sicilian cuisine.
Sandy
The Seven Sisters by Lucinda Riley
Book 1 of 8. The story captivated me immediately. It's told from the point of view of the first sister who is seeking her biological family after her adopted father died using the clue he gave her. The plot line is very interesting. Looking forward to reading the rest in the series.
Tessa
Instructions for Dancing by Nicola Yoon
Evie doesn’t believe in love anymore. Not after her dad left and her parents divorced. But then she finds her way to a dance studio and the next thing she knows, Evie is paired with a boy named X, learning to waltz, fox-trot and tango. This is a charming YA romance with a young couple who have multiple family issues they have to navigate.
Kathleen
Bits and Pieces by Whoopi Goldberg
My husband and I enjoyed hearing about Whoopi Goldberg's childhood and her philosophy of life.
Linda
The Messy Lives of Book People by Phaedra Patrick
A housekeeper, Liv, is employed by a famous author, Essie, who's dying wish is that Liv finish writing Essie's final novel in a bestselling series. Of course there are complications and unexpected discoveries. A fun read.
Lisa
Mad Honey by Jodi Picoult and Jennifer Finney Boylan
I couldn't put tihs book down. A who-done-it and touching love story about parents and children and adolescents and their peers. The character development was first rate. Also, I never thought that bee keeping and honey could be so interesting, not to mention all the valuable educational information about what it's like to be transgender. A perfect book club selection.
Anne
The White Hare by Jane Johnson
A captivating, intriguing and unforgettable story with an amazing setting and wonderful character portrayal.
Elizabeth
The Fraud by Zadie Smith
I really wanted to read this book because the reviews were so good, particularly for the audio version. So I got the ebook and the syncing audio but I was disappointed. Maybe it was because I was switching between reading and listening to it, but I couldn't keep the writer Ainsworth's literary friends straight (except for Dickens of course) and did not understand all the references to obscure Englich history. I did like the backstory about the Jamaican page Andrew Bogle who vouched for the Claimant and Mrs. Touchet. But the book demanded a closer reading than I was able to give it.
Donna
The Spy Coast by Tess Gerritson
Five retired spies from the CIA settle in Maine to live the rest of their lives peacefully. Until a dead body shows up in the driveway of Maggie Bird and she finds out someone is still after her. I enjoyed this novel with quirky characters and hope Gerritson intends to write more in this series.
Sandy
The Briar Club by Kate Quinn
Washington, D.C. 1950. Everyone keeps to themselves at Briarwood House, an old shabby all female boarding house where everyone has secrets. But when the mysterious widow Grace March moves into the tiny attic room, she draws her oddball collection of neighbors into a surprising friendship. Very entertaining.
Ruthanne
More Harm than Good by Jean Grainger
This is the third book in Jean Grainger's The Kilteegan Bridge Series. Start with THE TROUBLE WITH SECRETS and you will be as hooked as I am on this Irish author's books. There are a total of five books in this series and I can't wait to finish. She tells the story of the trials, tribulations and joys of a family starting in the early 19th century to present day. You really get involved in their lives. Highly recommend.
Beth
Devils Island by Midge Raymond and John Yunker
Devils Island, a fictional place, is so named because it is inhabited by the misunderstood and endangered Tasmanian devil. Kerry, an Australian who had been working to rescue devils, is now a naturalist tour guide on Devils Island. Two American women, Jane and Brooke, have joined one of these tour groups. This one tour is so full of suspense! The story is told mostly by Kerry and Brooke in alternate chapters. Just when you think one mystery is solved, another comes up.
First one tour guest disappears, feared lost in the woods, then it is learned that that guest has been having an affair with another guest. And the mysteries just keep happening. Added to this is treacherous weather. I was surprisingly pleased with this story.
Sheree
Sandwich by Catherine Newman
What a wonderful book. You are reading about a week of the life a woman who goes to vacation on the Cape with her family. She is going through menopause and she has some funny comments. It was a enjoyable read and you felt you were living that week at the Cape with the family. So relaxing.
Ruthanne
The Secret Life of Violet Grant by Beatriz Williams
I liked it but definitely not William's best book. Good story that develops two timelines, one set in 1964 and the other in 1912. It does hold your interest.
Donna
The Woods by Harlan Coben
Wow! When you think a thriller cannot get any more thrilling you have not read THE WOODS! At first it reminded me of SPIRIT CROSSING with young women being abused, but then it turns to a personal story for her attorney. There are twists and turns for sure, yet imagine how many skeletons are in any families closets. This keeps you guessing till the last page. No worries, you think you figured it out but hold on and tighten your seat belt since you will not have the answer until the last couple of pages. Enjoy the thrilling literary ride!
MH
The Lion Women of Tehran by Marjan Kamali
After her mother is widowed, Ellie meets Homa, a companion her mother deems unsuitable because she is poor. When Ellie’s mother remarries, we get a picture of the upper class in Iran. After the Shah is overthrown, the status of women in Iran is lower than it has been in centuries. Ellie escapes by moving to the U.S. and encounters many new conveniences and western ideas while Homa remains in Iran and fights for women’s rights. Very insightful book.
Teresa
The Guncle Abroad by Steven Rowley
Another fun book about Patrick and his family. This character is so funny. It has to become a movie (or two)! Someone told me it wasn’t as good as THE GUNCLE, but I disagree. It’s funny, yes, but touching and sweet and endearing. I’ve raised teens and taught middle school, and he has captured just the way kids that way would act. Well done!
Michelle
The Toll by Neal Shusterman
A new facet of the world of the scythes and tonists. I think this book is a creditable continuation of this series.
LisaMarie
The Phoenix Bride by Natasha Siegel
This was set in 1666 one year after the plague that devastated England. It is a passionate tale of plague, fire, forbidden love and a bit romantic. A great historical fiction book.
Luella
Cleopatra and Frankenstein by Coco Mellors
This book was impossible to put down. Some characters were hard to like. It was a wild love and life story, that totally changed futures, expectations and even partners. But change was needed. Good read.
Colleen
How to Age Disgracefully by Claire Pooley
4 stars. I wish there was a sequel! I enjoyed all the characters!
Debbie
An Unfinished Love Story by Doris Kearns Goodwin
AN UNFINISHED LOVE STORY by Doris Kearns Goodwin and based upon letters, journals, and documents from Doris and her husband, Dick Goodwin, detailing many presidents and world leaders from the 1950s to the 1980s presents the individuals in a fascinating dialogue. The pictures display an average individual running through life with a purpose of not letting life pass silently. Doris adores Lyndon Johnson and her insights into LBJ resound so often in the book. This memoir glimpses into the why of many high profile events. A very detailed journey, but well worth the effort.
Terry
Hester by Laurie Albanese
This book gives a more interesting and personal perspective from the characters in a famous story.
Deb
There There by Tommy Orange
It is a fantastic book! I really love the interconnectedness among the stories and the tension, the feeling of desperation throughout the stories.
Sally
Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate
The story of the journey of young children taken from their family and housed in The Tennessee Children’s Home Society, where disreputable people sold them out to unsuspecting couples. The story is based on true events, and those responsible were brought to justice in the early nineteen hundreds.
Claire
The In-Between Bookstore by Edward Underhill
I was initially drawn in by Darby’s internal conflicts and the complicated relationship with "home" and childhood having been born queer and trans. His memories of his teenage years were all warped through the lens of this hidden turmoil he couldn't even name yet at the time. And he's carrying that, even as an adult far from his hometown. The use of the time travel element as a device to reframe this time of his life, allowing him to see that wider, adult perspective, hooked me. However, I wasn’t fully satisfied with how it played out. The magical element went fairly underused. Darby‘s character development ended up feeling a little weak. The themes and emotions it explored could have gone deeper and been more evocative.
Marcia
The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood
This is such a eye-opening book. I see things happening in our country that make this book believable. I love the main character Alfred. She still has memories of "real" life before Gilead came to being. I would have liked to know what became of her after the book ended. Perhaps that's in the sequel? I've recommended this book to friends.
Terry
The Searcher by Tana French
Good story but filled with endless dialogue that didn't add to the plot. Felt like I was in an Irish pub -- not a bad thing in reality. Beautiful descriptions of the land. As an audiobook, I didn't catch some of the dialect.
Terry
What Wild Women Do by Karma Brown
First time reading this author and cant wait to pick up another. I hope she tells more about Rowan in her next book as I loved the character.
Becky
Den of Iniquity by J. A. Jance
Jance may have written a police procedural, but what I read was a family story. Beau’s family is in upheaval when his teenage grandson shows up on his doorstep announcing he would like to live with Beau and Mel. Darius’s family is devastated by his death, assuming he has succumbed to illegal drugs. Then the deaths and shattered families start mounting. Jance has written a lively and entertaining murder mystery with some humor along with the excitement of a chase to catch a serial murderer before they can strike again. As always, Jance’s characters are well defined and complex. Her plot is multi-faceted and leads to a brilliant conclusion. Altogether a mystery well worth your time.
Donna
The Lion Women of Tehran by Marjan Kamali
I loved the story of Homa and Ellie, who become best friends as young girls in Tehran, Iran, and despite rifts and obstacles, maintain a friendship for their lifetimes. Homa’s passion and fight for women’s rights in the face of political upheaval and crackdowns on women’s freedoms in Iran in the 1970s is very inspiring. The contrast between the lives of women in 1950s Iran with the current lives of women in Iran was so interesting. I read a previous novel by Kamali, which I also enjoyed. but this novel with its richly drawn characters is better. A great recommendation for book clubs. Iran in the 1950s was so modern and progressive in terms of women’s rights when we see the country as it is today.
Jean
Prodigal Summer by Barbara Kingsolver
The protagonist is a college educated woman who chooses to live an isolated, somewhat primitive life in a small mountain cabin where she works as a forest ranger. Her main activity is studying the plants and animals living around her until a much younger man dedicated to killing coyotes appears. As you might imagine, an unexpected romance ensues. Kingsolver has a great mastery of language, which she uses to provide more detailed descriptions of everything than I prefer. Other important characters who live nearby are introduced; by the end, their paths have intersected. It's great storytelling.
Francisca
China Dolls by Lisa See
This work of historical fiction begins in 1938, following three young women – Helen Fong, Grace Lee and Ruby Tom – through World War II and the period shortly thereafter. I really enjoyed this book. I was invested in these young women and their aspirations, and really enjoyed the detail See included from costumes to scenery to social issues – these elements really took me back to this era and culture.
Betty Jo
Slavery by Another Name: The Re-Enslavement of Black Americans from the Civil War to World War II by Douglas Blackmon
This book won a 2009 Pulitzer Prize for nonfiction. It is a story that needs to be more well known. It explains the emotions surrounding the effects of enslavement in this country. Hard to read but well worth it.
Heather
The Paradise Problem by Christina Lauren
This was my first book by Christina Lauren and I really enjoyed it! The characters were fleshed out, there is romance in an exotic locale, humor, and enough tension and conflict to make things interesting. Definitely recommended!
Sean
Mary, Mary by James Patterson
This is James Patterson at his best. A strong, family-minded protagonist in Alex Cross matching wits with a deranged and brutal serial killer. This book had all those notes plus family drama and intrigue in Cross's love life. The antagonist was dark and the motives twisted. Some of the family drama was too saccharine at times and there are far too many women falling over themselves for him that credibility is in question. Overall, a fast-paced thriller that is hard to put down.
Elizabeth
A Place to Hide by Ronald H. Balson
Ninety-two-year-old Teddy realized no one knew about his time in the occupied Netherlands during the war and wanted to make it known. Fans of Mr. Balson will be captivated by his amazing research as he has Teddy recalling everything that happened, even though it does get a bit heavy with all that was going on. World War II enthusiasts will have all the information they ever could want about how things progressed. The book is very detailed as well as frightening as we find out what went on, but also wonderful to hear what the citizens of the Netherlands did to ease some of the horror.
Susan
After Annie by Anna Quindlen
This is a beautiful story, even though the subject is death and grief. But don't let the sadness keep you from reading AFTER ANNIE. After mom and wife Annie dies on the kitchen floor, her family is thrown into a deep grief. The family can't seem to function without the love and care of their mom and wife. As you progress through the book and witness the journey of everyone who loved Annie, you will find hope in each small step to living without Annie. I loved this book.
Lesley
The Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese
Despite its 700-page length, I really enjoyed this epic novel. It spans 77 years and multiple generations of a family living in India. The author describes Indian life and customs with no judgment, just allowing the reader to ponder it all. There's not a tremendous amount of action; it's a story of medicine and healing. It's very heartfelt, and I really enjoyed it.
Patricia
The Women by Kristin Hannah
Readable, with an unlikable heroine and typically Kristin Hannah plot points. Something bad happens, then something bad happens, then another bad thing happens to everyone involved. I just didn't get the hype, and the ending was just odd. Parts of it made no sense. On one hand, the point is made over and over that nobody believed women served in Vietnam. On the other, she's being spat upon because, uh, why then?
Claire
Devil Is Fine by John Vercher
There is so much depth to this novel. Written as a conversation between a father and his recently deceased son, it delves into an exploration of fatherhood and family ties, race identity when Black and biracial, grief and guilt. All of these elements and themes built on each other and inter-played in ways that strengthened each of them. The writing is both rich and subtle, evoking complex emotions or ideas with small details and without growing overbearing. It works regardless of how deeply you want to analyze it. I would have to reread it to decide if I think the magical realism elements were used in the best way. They worked well to accentuate the conflict in the narrator's identity and to explore the history of the plantation.
Michelle
Blue Sisters by Coco Mellors
Riveting. Complex. Superb characterization and exploration of the dynamics amongst siblings as they grapple with grief and loss.
Karen
Spirit Crossing by William Kent Krueger
I love William Kent Krueger's writing, and this one is no different. The story and setting are nothing short of spiritual!
Donna
How to Read a Book by Monica Wood
I’m always in awe of an author who can pack an emotional punch in less than 300 pages. That’s exactly the case with HOW TO READ A BOOK by Monica Wood. Just like this book, I’m going to keep this short and sweet. If you enjoy well-depicted characters, flawed, yet trying to do their best, then you need to pick up this book. If you enjoy books about second chances, then you need to pick up this book. If you enjoy books dealing with forgiveness, then you need to pick up this book. If you enjoy books that bring out all the emotions, then you need to pick up this book. If you enjoy books about books, then you need to pick up this book. I adored it and will definitely be checking out Monica Wood’s other books.
Richard N B
Free Fire: A Joe Pickett Novel by C. J. Box
Book #7 in the mystery series featuring Wyoming game warden Joe Pickett. I love Pickett. He’s an astute observer, keeps his cards close to the chest and doesn’t take unnecessary chances, but he doesn’t hesitate to go into dangerous situations when it’s called for. There are some hidden agendas regarding ecoterrorism, deals cut with major bioengineering firms, and possible drug dealing. Can he sort it out and discover the “real” culprit before a natural disaster occurs to wipe out all evidence?
Sandy
Next Year in Havana by Chanel Cleeton
Very good! Lots of well-told history of Cuba I never knew. Two lovely romantic stories.
