This contest period's winners were Anne B. from Albuquerque, NM; Pat F. from Newburgh, NY; and Tonya S. from Flint, MI. Each received a copy of BAD LIAR by Tami Hoag and THE SEQUEL by Jean Hanff Korelitz.
Christopher
Never by Ken Follett
This was such a great story, with the interweaving of characters masterfully overarching each other's storylines. Follett is a favorite writer of mine, and this one did not disappoint!
Pat
Lethal Standoff by DiAnn Mills
Fantastic book! This book will keep you guessing all the way to the end! The author has provided great details about many life happenings, which produce such thought-provoking questions in your mind as you are reading the book. I have read another one of her books and both times I was intrigued by the plot she has written. Ms. Mills subtly intertwined religion, giving readers an insight as to the differences between Orthodox and Messianic Judaism. The plot she has written makes you think about the differences between justice and revenge and the fine line that separates them. Ms. Mills has done it again for me! Not only is it a crime thriller, it is a suspense romance which will allow the book to appeal to many readers.
Jeanne
Enlightenment by Sarah Perry
ENLIGHTENMENT by Sarah Perry is a well-written story about best friends Thomas and Grace that spans twenty years and makes you wonder if true love and second chances are actually written in the stars as it weaves together love, religion and science in a profound, epic way. It is a fascinating novel of love and astronomy and how they sometimes mesh together to form something truly magical and enchanting. The author masterfully and diabolically created the characters in a manner that draws you in as though you actually knew Thomas and Grace and were living the storyline through them. It is one of those books that once you read it, you will go back and read it again. I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher.
Marsha
The Boys in the Boat by Daniel James Brown
Probably more than I wanted to know about crew racing, but a great story of the team who went to the 1936 Olympics. Interesting back story of the desperate Depression times and the rise of Hitler in Germany as they prepare to host the world.
Rosa
The Cliffs by J. Courtney Sullivan
This story is set in the town of Awadapquit, Maine. Awadapquit apparently means "where the beautiful cliffs meet the sea." Jane Flanagan grew up in this town with her sister and alcoholic mother. As a teenager Jane is drawn to an unusual purple Victorian house that was built on a cliff overlooking the ocean. Later as an adult, Jane returns to the house, now owned by Genevieve. There are many subplots here, stories set in different periods of time. It was difficult at times to keep track of all the characters and their associations, but the story is interesting because of its focus on history and how it is told. It opened my eyes to the idea of colonialism and how the indigenous people of North America were treated, even to the present time.
Tessa
Yours Cheerfully by A. J. Pearce
This is Book Two about Emmeline Lake, a young woman who was introduced to readers in Pearce’s DEAR MRS BIRD. I was completely charmed by Emmy in the first book and really like to see her continued growth as a woman and journalist. As Emmy meets the women on the line in a munitions factory, she begins to identify the societal and industrial prejudices that women are suffering and begins to advocate for solutions.
Darlene
The Summer Place by Jennifer Weiner
Excellent. Lengthy but worth the time.
Wanda
The Women by Kristin Hannah
This book was probably the best book I’ve read…ever. Recognition for our women veterans and what they to had to deal with while serving our county. Five stars for this book; such great characters and writing.
MH
The Briar Club by Kate Quinn
Delightful change from Quinn’s usual books. Set in a boarding house, each chapter is told by one of the residents, especially as they revolve around the new woman who moved in. Each of the residents has secrets that are gradually revealed. Thursday night suppers draw the women closer together as each resident makes a specialty. Young Pete grows up, facing adversity as his mother doesn’t think he needs school and he has to take over as man of the house. Interesting cast of characters.
Linda
We Must Not Think of Ourselves by Lauren Grodstein
A very touching and sad account of how the Jewish people were taken out of their homes and put into ghetto housing, fenced in and given so little to eat. This was one account of that period of time I had not read yet. Very good book.
Linda
Before We Were Us by Denise Hunter
I enjoyed the book. It didn't wow me but it was good. Good enough to warrant a five star rating. I could not put less as I found nothing wrong with the book except that it was one I could put down and come back to multiple times. It's well written and all of the characters are likable. It did give me feelings and that is always a plus. I had sad and happy tears with this book, sad when things went bad and so happy with the way it all worked out. This is a sweet story. A love story. A story with hope.
Sally-Jo
Table for Two by Amor Towles
I'm a fan of Armor Towles' books. This one is a winner. The stories are cleverly written. Enjoyed the quirky characters. I highly recommend this book.
Rosemary
Toxic Prey by John Sandford
Led by an English expert in tropical and infectious diseases, a group of people have decided that the only way to save the planet earth is to eliminate billions of people. They have a cross between measles, a highly infectious disease, and an extremely lethal virus. They plan to fly in and out of busy airports, while distributing the poison. Letty Davenport, along with her father Lucas and an extremely attractive English man, Alec Hawkins of MI5, are sent out to stop them. The orders: kill the couriers before they destroy the world. This is a fast-paced race with just an occasional bit of humor that will keep the reader glued to a chair!
Rona
Long Knife by James Alexander Thom
I always enjoy books about Native Americans which is why I chose this book. George Rogers Clark is the main character who is leading his army and has to battle the Native Americans along the way. I learned much about the harsh realities of that point in time and the battles that took many lives.
Betty
Mrs. Quinn's Rise to Fame by Olivia Ford
Even if my baking is less than award winning, this book made me want to get out my beaters and measuring cups. Lovely story and great bakings.
Denise
The Last Fashion House in Paris by Renee Ryan
Who can you really trust during WWII when the world is turned upside down? France may seem like the center for elegance and class, but in 1942 the French people were driven to hard times while the Nazis SS exploited them in all ways possible. A naïve mistake can change everything, especially for the ones you love. Thus begins Paulette’s education on the realities and consequences of her privileged and sheltered life. Banished from her home (for her own good), she is sent to Paris to learn from her mother’s closest friend, Mademoiselle Ballard at her fashion house, Maison de Ballard. Things aren’t always what they seem as you read along in this journey to right so many wrongs while also seeing the workings of a fashion house.
Gretchen
The Night We Lost Him by Laura Dave
This storyline catches you. I didn't want to stop reading. I enjoyed it as much as THE LAST THING HE TOLD ME.
Aida
Memphis by Tara M. Stringfellow
Great book about strong women overcoming many obstacles.
Linda
Daughters of Shandong by Eve J. Chung
This historical fiction novel is based on the true life of the author's grandmother. It takes place in China starting in 1948 when the Communist Revolution began. Hai, despite her "lowly" status as a female in a Confucius culture, nurtured and enabled her own daughter to have a better life. I learned a lot about immigrants fleeing the People's Republic of China and their nightmarish hardships.
Anne
The White Hare by Jane Johnson
Captivating and enthralling novel with excellent character portrayal and vivid descriptions of the locale. A real unforgettable treasure.
Joan
My Sister's Keeper by Jodi Picoult
The characters are all so vivid. Unforgettable!!
Shannon
The Wharton Plot by Mariah Fredricks
This book had potential, but it felt like the author was really reaching to make certain plot lines happen. It was a selection for my last book club, so I’m not sure if I would have chosen it otherwise. I did enjoy the elements of the Gilded Age in New York City, though, as that time period really interests me.
Cindee
The Wind Knows My Name by Isabel Allende
Incredible story of two people from different times, both losing their families and their country to end up in the United States. Immigration and discrimination and so many other issues that are just as prominent today as they were earlier in century and help us see that the world and its people need love, kindness and compassion more than ever.
Sheree
The Berry Pickers by Amanda Peters
I have waited 11 months to get this book from the library so I was expecting one fabulous read. I was so disappointed. It was an okay book, but it didn't make me like the characters and even made me less interested in their lives. I was very disappointed!
Jean
Flight Behavior by Barbara Kingsolver
When a sea of monarch butterflies show up on a rural Tennessee mountain thousands of miles north of where they should be, Dellarobia Turnbow's life turns a corner. A teen pregnancy has forced her to abandon plans of college and instead become a wife and mother with a dull, predictable life. Now she gets the opportunity to learn about the butterflies and become friends with the professor who is their chief researcher, enabling her to see possibilities she thought were closed forever. As with every Kingsolver book I've read, there is more detail in the descriptions than I prefer. The characters are well developed and even those few I didn't like had important things to say to move the story forward.
Linda
The Perfect Passion Company by Alexander McCall Smith
A low-key dating service in Scotland. First of 3. Katie takes over from her aunt, unsure if she can do the job. With the help of her handsome neighbor she becomes quite the matchmaker.
Sherry
The Confidante by Christopher C. Gorham
Too much like a text book and not a readable book.
Rose
The Pale Horse by Agatha Christie
Read for a book club selection. When a priest is murdered after hearing a confession of a dying woman, the police are surprised to find a list of names in the priest's shoe. It seems the assassin was searching the priest for something, but didn't find it. Mark Easterbrook sees a fight in a bar, and one of the girls subsequently dies. After hearing from the police that her name was on the list found in the priest's shoe, and having been informed of The Pale Horse, Mark decides to investigate. He finds out that there is some sorcery happening and he and his girlfriend, Ginger, put together a plot to find the truth, putting Ginger in danger. I wasn't too interested in this Christie mystery.
Rose
Everyone on This Train Is a Suspect by Benjamin Stevenson
While I loved the first book in the series, because it was so unique, I didn't love this one as much. Ernest and his girlfriend, Juliette, are on a train for the Australian Mystery Writer's Festival. Ernest is feeling guilty from his last book and all the things that happened in his family, and is having a bit of writer's block, When someone on the train is killed, Ernest starts to get involved, trying to decipher who is the murdered. He and Juliette have some issues, and the train is a different sort of locked room mystery. I will continue reading this series, perhaps I just wasn't in the mood for this one.
Kelley
The Paris Novel by Ruth Reichl
As a Francophile and an admirer of Reichl's previous tomes, I had to read this book!
Minna
The Goddess of Warsaw by Lisa Barr
A Warsaw ghetto story wrapped in a story of a famous actress seeking revenge.
Susann
Blue Sisters by Coco Mellors
A story about sisters dealing with death and the secrets they have.
Jennifer
Never Never by Colleen Hoover and Tarryn Fisher
I was initially excited to read this because I typically enjoy books from both authors. This one was a little strange. I didn't dislike it, but the "mystery" never really explained itself. There were more unanswered questions than questions answered. The ending also set it up for a potential sequel; however, if they went that route they should seriously plan out the plot in advance to avoid the questioning this book caused.
sherry
The Truth About the Devlins by Lisa Scottoline
I enjoyed this book.
Abby
The Lion Women of Tehran by Marjan Kamali
An interesting story of two Iranian women that spans the decades of the 1950s-1980s beginning when they are children. I learned a lot about both the country and the political trauma faced during those years. Recommend.
kelly
The Wedding People by Alison Epasch
This book touched places that I hadn't visited in my heart in quite some time. Moving, funny and soul searching - a perfect read!
Liz
The Widow’s Husband’s Secret Lie by Freida McFadden
Alice has just buried her husband. Or did she? Everywhere she goes she sees his face. She tells this to her next door neighbor Poppy, but when she goes to visit Poppy she is told there is no one there by that name. Is she losing her mind? This novella will keep fans of Freda McFadden guessing, and as usual the last few pages have a twist you didn’t see coming.
Claire
The Otherwhere Post by Emily J. Taylor
The world building is quite interesting, three connected worlds divided by a sudden disaster. It's what drew me to this story most of all. The main character's backstory had potential as well, though she herself is somewhat bland as a character.
Rose
Animal Farm by George Orwell
This book has been on my TBR for quite some time. I finally read it to complete a book challenge, needing a book told from an animal's POV. This book is an allegory which describes the Russian revolution and the dictatorship of Joseph Stalin. The animals who live on Mr. Jones's farm decide to rebel against the farmer and the pigs assume leadership of the animals. This was begun by Old Major who dies shortly after the rebellion. Then Napoleon and Snowball lead the animals, but have differing ideas. Squealer helps to spread propaganda and turns some of the animals against Snowball. This was an excellent book - especially putting these historic times into such an easy way to understand for various ages.
Rose
Absolution by Alice McDermott
Tricia was a newlywed when her husband Pete is assigned as an attorney in Vietnam. There, she meets Charlene. Charlene presents herself as altruistic and charitable. Now, years later, Tricia reflects upon her time in Vietnam and her relationship with Charlene, and the impact that this time had on her. She explains all of this in correspondence to Rainey, Charlene's daughter. Rainey also tells Tricia about her thoughts about her mother and her influence. It was an interesting account of how women had to be subservient to their husbands, and how some charitable actions aren't truly charitable.
Rose
This Other Eden by Paul Harding
Based on actual events, this story is about a multi-racial community that is changed when outsiders come in and try to impose their ideas and ideals on the community. Apple Island is based on Malaga Island, off the coast of Maine, which was one of the first racially integrated towns in the northeastern U.S. Benjamin Honey, a former slave, and his wife, who is from Ireland, come to the island to live together without fear of prejudice and persecution. Years later, their descendants are living on the island. In 1912, a schoolteacher, Matthew Diamond, comes to the island. He finds that the children are remarkably knowledgeable, for ex. some are fluent in Latin, others are experts in other subjects. Sad what we do to cultures we don't get.
Rose
The Truth According to Ember by Danica Nava
Ember Cardinal needs money. Her brother, Sage, is in trouble, and she has been sending him money. She can't get a job when she submits her resumes stating that she is Native American. Her friend suggests that she submit a resume as a White person. She pads her resume with lies, saying she has her degree as an accountant, and she does land a job. Meanwhile, she meets a fellow Native American, Danuwoa Colson, who is the IT guy at the accounting firm. They become attracted to each other, but the firm has a no dating associates policy. As the story continues, Ember's lies continue, which threatens her job and her relationship. Cute romance while highlighting the prejudice in hiring.
Tonya
The God of the Woods by Liz Moore
Excellent.
Sandy
Here One Moment by Liane Moriarty
When I first started this book I thought it was kind of weird, but the further I read the more I liked it.
On this ordinary, short, domestic flight, something extraordinary happens. People are told how and when they are going to die. For some their deaths are far in the future, but for 6 passengers their predicted deaths are not far away at all. Great book that looks at free will and destiny, grief and love.
Susan
The Mitford Affair by Marie Benedict
Historical fiction based on fact. Entertaining.
Elaine
Dear Edward by Ann Napolitano
As soon as I read the flyleaf, I was hooked on the story of a boy who was the sole survivor of an airliner crash. When I finished reading DEAR EDWARD, I was hooked on the author as well as the story. I immediately got hold of a copy of A GOOD HARD LOOK, thinking, quite honestly, this one can't be as good. After all, an author making Flannery O'Connor a character in a fictional book is borderline ridiculous. But this English major couldn't help herself. It was every bit as good as DEAR EDWARD, but entirely different. I will read every word Napolitano writes.
Rae
The Future by Naomi Alderman
Engaging, thought-provoking story. Many details are easily connected to our real world, making the story feel prophetic.
kristie
The Secrets We Buried by Becca Day
Thriller to the end.
Chris
Dead Wake by Erik Larson
What a story. An emotional and gripping read.
Lee
The Pairing by Casey McQuiston
Very good on-again off-again romance featuring LGBTQ characters on a culinary tour of Europe. The food descriptions will make you drool.
Joanne
The Midnight Feast by Lucy Foley
Did not care for this story - seemed like several others I have read.
Denise
Listen for the Lie by Amy Tintera
I loved this book! It had just the right mix of funny and serious, with a bit of sex. The main characters are very likable and I found myself rooting for Lucy, the main suspect of murder in the true-crime podcast, “Listen for the Lie”. Lucy’s grandmother, Beverly, is hilarious! The fictional Plumpton,Texas is a great backdrop for this small town murder mystery.
Pat
The Wrong Daughter by Dandy Smith
What an excellent book! Loved how it kept me in suspense about who, how, and why through more than 90% of the book! But to let you know, if you do not read every day, there is a chance to get confused or lost a little bit. This happened to me when I started to read it. I started from the beginning again and had a hard time putting it down! Would definitely recommend!
Merrill
The Berlin Apartment by Bryn Turnbull
I read a lot of WWII fiction, so this story about the creation of the Berlin Wall was a switch. The main story is about a young couple who get engaged (he lives in Berlin, she lives in E. Berlin). She goes home to tell her father and the wall is enforced that night. It's historical, a bit of a romance book (but not sappy), and a very good story overall.
Kelly
Go As a River by Shelley Read
Excellent novel with wonderful characters. This was an amazing story about a part of our country I
didn’t know much about. I recommended it for our book club.
Valerie
The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives by Lola Shoneyin
What a great story! This is a modern-day twist on polygamy. The family politics will have you laughing and open your eyes and about this very serious topic.
June
The Sunset Years of Agnes Sharp by Leonie Swann
A clever murder mystery translated from German about seniors living together in a group home solving a murder.
William
Capture or Kill by Vince Flynn and Don Bentley
A solid entry in the Mitch Rapp series by the late Vince Rapp. Author Kyle Mills wrote several sbooks in the series following Flynn’s passing. CAPTURE OR KILL is accomplished author Don Bentley’s first book in this high octane series. The Middle East is front and center as Mitch is tasked with capturing several high value targets with valuable information on Iran’s nuclear weapons plans. Mitch must also confirm whether international war criminal, Osama bin Laden, is holed up in a Pakistani compound. The action is nonstop, military jargon constant, and Mitch and colleagues face danger throughout. It’s an exhausting but enjoyable read for thriller fans.
Susan
The Brightwood Code by Monica Hesse
I was happy to see a historical fiction book about WWI. I was not familiar with the “Hello Girls” and will search out other books on them, based on THE BRIGHTWOOD CODE. Hesse does a great job of character and plot development. I would highly recommend this book.
Kelly
The Night We Lost Him by Laura Dave
Thoroughly enjoyed this latest book by Laure Dave. The back and forth between now and the past gave so much insight to the characters. A family with many secrets. An ending that made me content with their choices.
Dawn
The Full Moon Coffee Shop by Mai Mochizuki
I won this book through Goodreads. It is an easy read when you want to take a break from dark and sad books that you are assigned to read through your various book clubs. This was translated from a supposedly Japanese bestseller. It's about five characters who are interrelated through old acquaintances or current work relationships. They all end up having dreams about being at a full moon coffee shop, run by imaginary cats, which helps them to make life-changing decisions. It focuses on astrology way too much, which I didn't really understand. I think this book should be considered for young adults and not adults. Maybe a younger person would enjoy it more than I did. The book's theme seemed far-fetched to me.
Luella
The Shadow Key by Susan Stokes-Chapman
What a great read. It has magic, myths and mystery. It's an engrossing tale of dark family secrets that will take you by surprise.
Jana
The Life Impossible by Matt Haig
Loved, loved this book. Such a mesmerizing story!
Wanda
The Sanitorium by Sarah Pearse
A page-turner! Never saw the ending coming, very intense story regarding a group of people who are all considered possible guilty of the crime being unfolded. Good storyline, unputdownable!
Iris
Tell Me Everything by Elizabeth Strout
I had been waiting for this book to be published! Olive Kitteridge and Lucy Barton meet! What I love about Strout’s books is that they are just about life, the regular, quiet, often unnoticed moments that we all experience. I would highly recommend this book.
Kimberley
Anxious People by Fredrik Backman
It is amazing how this renowned author has once again evoked an array of emotions with this novel. It is thought-provoking with moments of smiles, sadness, understanding and surprise. Unbeknownst to them, strangers caught up in a hostage situation are all connected. The novel concludes well. This story will remain with the reader for a long time.
Pat
Eruption by Michael Crichton and James Patterson
A scientifically detailed thriller that kept me engaged until the end. Very entertaining.
Wanda
Night Watch by Jayne Anne Phillips
Different and interesting.
Tessa
Dragon Actually by G. A. Aiken
Welcome to the world of handsome warrior dragons and the bloodthirsty females who love them. The plot is thin, but it was a fast read and somewhat entertaining, if repetitive. I have to say I most enjoyed the family interplay between Fearghus, his siblings and his parents.
Luella
The Shadow Key by Susan Stokes-Chapman
Great book! It has a little magic, myths and mystery. An engrossing tale of dark family secrets that catch your attention and holds it through to the end with a stunning surprise. Well written.
Susann
Swan Song by Elin Hilderbrand
This is my book club selection for our November meeting. It is an easy beach read.
Nancy
What Does It Feel Like? by Sophie Kinsella
Amazing, heartbreaking and funny all wrapped into one novella! WHAT DOES IT FEEL LIKE is based on Ms. Kinsella’s own battle with stage 4 brain cancer. She’s created an interesting story that also educates the reader about the details of struggling with cancer. Loved the author’s note at the end.
Lonnie
The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain
I haven't read this book in over 50 years. I chose it in honor of Banned Books Week. It was definitely worth re-reading!
Dottie
The Lie Maker by Linwood Barclay
Very fast-paced thriller with lots of twists to keep you guessing.
Dianne
Jackpot Summer by Elyssa Friedland
Great end of summer read. Family beach house is sold after the mother dies and father plans move to Florida. While everyone is together to pack up and empty the house, three of the four Jacobsen siblings share purchase of lottery tickets. And they win. How winning affects their lives and their relationship with the brother who did not participate unfolds. Winning is not everything they learn.
Debbie
Beartown by Fredrik Backman
BEARTOWN, a 2017 book banned by a Rockingham County North Carolina School District, portrays a town engulfed by an ice hockey team. The town falls into terror and hate when the ice hockey team loses the final game of the season due to the arrest of the star player. What causes the banning of this excellent book? The parents of 10th graders felt that the graphic language and violent scenes haunted these young, innocent minds. Fredrik Backman presents a book filled with loyalty, friendship, and love. The story shows symbolism as seen in "High Noon" with Gary Cooper and Grace Kelly. The contrast between the individuals dressed in white and dressed in black. In High Noon, Helen Ramirez dresses in black and Amy Fowler Kane always wears white.
Debbie
We Solve Murders by Richard Osman
Richard Osman writes exciting mysteries. THE THURSDAY MURDER CLUB details the lives of four senior citizens living in a retirement community. The book’s emotions range from laughter to tears. This latest book, WE SOLVE MURDERS, begins a new series of murder and mayhem. The three main characters, Steve Wheeler, Amy Wheeler, and Rosie D’Antonio, fly here and there in an attempt to find why all these individuals are being killed. Such a cast of unlikely people, and of course, a cat named Trouble. England stands as the main setting, but exotic places enter the picture quickly. The main problem rests with money laundering and the innocent “handlers” moving the money.
Jeanne
Meet Me in Paris by Sasha Hart
MEET ME IN PARIS by Sasha Hart is a delightful, charming and entertaining short story about three estranged sisters and one best friend. The three sisters must travel to Europe for one month starting in Paris to comply with the rules set by their late grandfather before they receive their inheritance. The characters, sometimes quirky, but relatable and likable were carefully created and fit well with the storyline. It is a heartwarming story of love, second chances and has all the elements of an entertaining, well written story. I received an eBook copy of this book and these opinions are strictly my own.
Kerry
The Life Impossible by Matt Haig
I enjoyed listening to THE LIFE IMPOSSIBLE. I like that it had a strong environmental stewardship theme.
Nathan
We Solve Murders by Richard Osman
Almost as good as THE THURSDAY MURDER CLUB. Good start to a series.
Jeanne
Literary Journeys by John McMurtrie, Editor
A stunning compilation of 78 short pieces which examine the lure of travel in fictional writing. Complete with photos, paintings and maps, this is a treasure that should have a place on every reader’s shelf. From the travels of ODYSSEUS to the quirky road trip of THE LINCOLN HIGHWAY, LITERARY JOURNEYS will satisfy the traveler in all of us.
Lesley
In the Lives of Puppets by T. J. Klune
This author is known for creating delightful characters and bringing readers into unknown worlds. There is usually a queer relationship and that is true in this novel as well. We are in the future. Robots have taken over the world and we follow the lives of some very sweet creatures, nurse Ratchet, Rambo, Hap and Victor to save someone they love. The problem with this book and the last one I read by the author is the pacing. The story is unfortunately very difficult to get through...
Rose
The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife by Anna Johnston
This story is both heartbreaking and heartwarming. Fred is a widower without family or friends. He is about to be evicted from his apartment. By a twist of fate, he is able to assume Bernard's life in a nursing home. Fred is lonely and this allows him to find new family and friends. Family is not always your blood relatives. This is a book that I really enjoyed. I would highly recommend reading it. You will laugh and cry during the story. Senior citizens don't always have connections to friends and family. How do they get treated by society? This book will make you think of the senior citizens that you know and maybe you can reach out a friendly hand. What a stunning book!
Donna
One Plus One by Jojo Moyes
It was a slow start but then as you get into it, it really kicks in to high gear! A road trip of a lifetime. It is so true to real life in that there are ups and downs, yet it depends on how you handle them. You can mope and back away, or be like Jess the main character and meet them head on. This book can make you laugh, cry and sad. How many bad things can happen to one family yet they live to be happy. A very enjoyable read, keep your seat belt on.
Rose
The Family Next Door: The Heartbreaking Imprisonment of the Thirteen Turpin Siblings and Their Extraordinary Rescue by John Glatt
This book details the horrors of the thirteen Turpin siblings who were rescued after one of the children escaped and called 911. What stood out to me is how many people thought the family was strange, never seeing the children outside, and saying the house smelled terribly when they did go to it. The parents were disgusting and abusive. The book was extremely repetitive, reciting the same details over and over.
Rose
Under the Surface by Diane Urban
YA novel about a student trip to Paris that turns deadly. Ruby and Sean have been dancing around their feelings for a while. Ruby doesn't want to let Sean know how she feels, fearing what could happen. When her friend leaves the hotel to meet a boy to attend a party, Ruby knows she has to go after her. She brings along two other girls from the trip, her former best friend, along with another girl. Sean gets concerned when Ruby doesn't appear for breakfast the next morning, raising the alarm that the four girls are missing. The girls are being led through the catacombs by Julien. They are confronted by skeletal remains and people who are trying to capture them. It is a terrifying maze of danger. A suspenseful and scary YA novel.
Rose
Haunted Ever After by Jen DeLuca
Cute romance with a paranormal twist. Cassie Rutherford has fled Orlando to Boneyard Key, where she has unknowingly purchased a haunted house. When her laptop dies, she heads to Hallowed Grounds coffee shop, owned by Nick Royer. She is attracted to Nick and he takes her on a ghost tour. However, Cassie notices that her refrigerator magnets begin spelling out menacing messages. Cassie decides to research the former owners of her home, and along with Nick and other residents, uncover a story to help the ghosts calm down.
Rose
The Art of Fielding by Chad Harbach
I had to read a book where the character played a sport. This book was recommended in several places, so I chose it. I don't understand the hype of this book - I wasn't a fan. The story is about a reluctant baseball star at a small school on the shores of Lake Michigan. Henry Skrimshander throws a ball that hits a player in the dugout. Then, we begin to delve into the lives of those affected by this injury. Henry doesn't know if he wants to continue playing. Owen Dunne is Henry's gay roommate who begins an affair with the college president, Guert Affenlight. Mike Schwartz has promoted Henry's career at his own expense. Pella, Guert's daughter, starts sleeping around with students. I didn't like this story and was bored. Very long.
Rose
What You Wish For by Katherine Center
After the beloved head of school dies, Samantha (Sam) and the school community is devastated and sad. The new principal, Duncan, is strict and no-nonsense. But, Sam is surprised, because she knows Duncan from her previous school and he was fun-loving and spontaneous. Which is exactly why she fell in love with him, but he didn't see her that way - so she left that school, and here he is again. After he asks her to bring him home from a procedure, things heat up between them, and Sam gets an insight into why he is so different. Then, when a child goes missing, the school needs to work together to find him. As always, a sweet romance, but with some heavy matters addressed from Katherine Center.
Rose
Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maud Montgomery
When young Anne Shirley is brought to Green Gables, the family had wanted a boy to help with the farm activities. Matthew and his sister, Marilla, take in the 11-year-old red-headed orphan, and her personality wins them over. Through a series of fits and starts, Anne learns the ways of the Cuthberts and the community on Prince Edward Island. This is a delightful coming-of-age story with many humorous moments, as well as some touching events, as well. Highly recommend this for readers of many ages!
Rose
The American Queen by Vanessa Miller
This historical fiction novel taught me about a period in our history where there was an American queen who ruled the Kingdom of the Happy Land of North Carolina. After living as a slave prior to the end of the Civil War, Louella was angry. But Reverend William Montgomery, a Black man whose father owned the Montgomery Plantation, wooed her and married her. Together, they lead the formerly enslaved people off the plantation, finally settling in NC. He puts Louella's name on the deed, along with his. Together with the freed slaves, they clear the land and build houses, and Louella rules a "One for All, All for One" society, where they pool their resources. Happy Land was only in existence for 50-75 years, but it's an inspiring story.
Rose
The Erkeley Shadows by Michael W. Thomas
3.5 rounded to 4 stars. When a man, Jonathan, is found dead, Inspector Will Apland of the Saskatoon Police Force finds a binder that the man left behind. Jonathan has written down his thoughts and feelings from a time when he was a youngster and, along with some friends, committed a terrible act. Jonathan can't get this incident out of his mind. Will initially thinks that it is just a story, but as he reads on, he realizes it is a confession of sorts. I much preferred the parts where Will was the one speaking vs. reading the rambling journal of Jonathan. I didn't like either character though, and I think it would have been better if some of the journal had been edited to a shorter story.
Rose
A Man Who Seemed Real by Elizabeth Tebby Germaine
Art imitating life in this novel of love and lies. Jonathan is a vicar who has experienced tragedy and loss. He is kind and the villagers come to him with issues. George gives him the Manor House to live in, and he brings people there to work. There are many characters with various issues. Jonathan is in love with Pam, and she is trying to tell him something. Jonathan also tries to relate his thoughts to Pam, but both seem lost in their minds. The big twist is in the epilogue, and it comes together. I was surprised by the ending.
sherry
The Confidante by Christopher C. Gorman
Too much like a history textbook.
Teresa
Slow Dance by Rainbow Rowell
A little slow, but an interesting story of three friends, two of whom spend years denying they’re in love with each other. While I liked the basic story, I found it hard at times in the first half of the book to keep going, as it seems to move so slowly. Still, it’s a good story and the slow pace does allow the two main characters to be developed.
Karen
The Fraud by Zadie Smith
Longer than it needed to be, but it keeps you reading. Nice use of an historical court case and the hold it had on the English citizens' imagination.
Joanne
Darling Girls by Sally Hepworth
This was an interesting character-driven story. Tales of foster children and all of the darkness that takes in. A surprise of an ending. Rating was rounded down due to numerous grammatical errors this former English teacher encountered. Was the editor asleep?
Luella
Cleopatra and Frankenstein by Coco Mellors
Good read. Good story. Well written and kept your interest.
Mary
The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife by Anna Johnston
Heartbreaking, poignant, funny. An absolute joy.
Patricia
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon
Loved it! It frustrated me how much women of that era were so diminished. But the main character, Martha, managed to overcome that stigma.
Gerry
The Memory Keeper of Kyiv by Erin Litteken
This novel was recommended by someone in the Facebook Historical Fiction group, and I appreciate the recommendation for the history it included, the terrible story of the Holodomor, the forced famine inflicted on the people of Ukraine by Stalin in the 1930s, an event I knew almost nothing about. The writing was not great, the dialog often trite, and the narrator of the audiobook annoying in her overly-expressive voice and unsuccessful attempts to change her vocal range to portray different characters. But I stuck with it because the story is one that needs to be told, especially now when the people of Ukraine are once again suffering at the hands of the Russian invaders who wish to control their country.
Gerry
Rachel to the Rescue by Elinor Lipman
This audiobook had some humorous scenes, but rather quickly detoured into the farfetched. A young woman working in the Executive Office Bldg (her job is taping torn up documents back together) gets fired after she sends an email to a colleague complaining about the President -- and hits REPLY ALL instead.
Gerry
The Chelsea Girls by Fiona Davis
3-1/2 stars. Though I'm not sure why, this novel didn't resonate with me as others by this author have. The main character was interesting and realistic, but others less so. As always, the novel centered on a famous building in Manhattan, this time a hotel that housed "creative types," like actors, writers, artists. Following the career of Hazel, a budding actor inspired by Lillian Hellman and Virginia Robinson, the novel also focused on the pressures on the theater world created by the Red Scare initiated by Joseph McCarthy. I enjoyed reading it and will continue to read more by Davis.
Gerry
Again and Again by Jonathan Evison
A thoroughly enjoyable story about an elderly man who, at 105 years old, has had enough of life, especially because he's actually lived over 1,000 years. Eugene is a resident in a nursing home, and somewhat of a loner, but given the chance and a patient listener, he has some fabulous stories to tell. Stories of his life in Andalusia in the tenth century, when he met the love of his life, of traveling with Lewis and Clark and Sacajawea to explore North America, of his life as a cat, a pampered pet of Oscar Wilde, and more. He resists the efforts of mental health specialist Wayne to connect with him, but gradually begins to enjoy the company of Angel, the custodial aide who diligently cleans his small room. A surprising twist near the end.
Gerry
After Oz by Gordon McAlpine
With its intriguing premise and very interesting characters, AFTER OZ had the potential to be, for me, a 5-star novel. The first half takes the reader through the events just before and for a few days after the tornado that destroyed the Gales' farmhouse. Just as in L. Frank Baum's novel, Dorothy returned home after the tornado with wild tales of a wizard, good and bad witches, flying monkeys, talking animals, and her special companions, the lion, the tin man, and the scarecrow.
The second half of the novel began to drag a bit, as subsequent events were described primarily in the form of letters from a young psychology student to her mentor. But the final chapters picked up and led to a satisfying conclusion.
Gerry
Amy and Isabelle by Elizabeth Strout
Another re-read! Beautifully-written “novel of shining integrity and humor, about the bravery and hard choices of what is called ordinary life.” A sad portrayal of the unnecessary distance between a mother and daughter resulting from the mother’s uncertainties and fears about her own past choices, and her desire to protect her daughter from making the same mistakes. I chose to return to this one after finishing Strout's newest novel that included so many characters from her earlier books.
Gerry
The Revisioners by Margaret Wilkerson Sexton
Despite feeling some confusion from the back-and-forth in time, and at times having difficulty keeping track of the characters and their interrelationships, I enjoyed listening to this multi-timeline novel set in 1855, 1928, and 2017, about a family descended from formerly enslaved people and their enslavers. The tribulations experienced by members of the Black community and the tensions between Whites and Blacks in these three time periods are explored in a way that acknowledges progress without denying the continued oppression.
Gerry
Death at the Sanitorium by Ragnar Jonasson
The story is centered on Helgi Reykdal, a former police officer (and a fan of old crime novels) who is working on his dissertation for a graduate degree in criminology; the dissertation focuses on a series of mysterious deaths that occurred at a Sanatorium in the far north of Iceland some thirty years earlier. His attempts to get some background by interviewing staff who worked there at the time lead mostly to silence and dead ends, until another death occurs and he begins to wonder if his inquiries could have caused the killer to strike again after so many years. More police procedural than thriller, DEATH AT THE SANATORIUM is a compelling read that draws the reader in and sustains the suspense until the stunning conclusion. 3.5 stars.
Gerry
A Psalm for the Wild-Built by Becky Chambers
This is the first book in a series that, according to the publisher, asks the question, in a world where people have what they want, does having more matter? The two main characters in this first installment are Dex, a genderless human, and a robot whom he meets after leaving his home in search of something, though he knows not what. The robot is seeing the answer to a question: what do humans need? The two travel together, Dex seeking inspiration that will give new purpose and meaning to his life, and the robot seeking other humans to whom he can address his question, and along the way, puzzling over Dex's quest and trying to explain to him that life has no need for a purpose other than to live. Cute but uninspiring story.
Sheree
Slow Dance by Rainbow Rowell
I enjoy books about people and relationships and this book did not disappoint. It was light reading but I think that was exactly what I needed. I would recommend this book to others.
Janet
I'll Be Waiting by Kelley Armstrong
A woman grieving her husband's death has one last shot at contacting his spirit to hear his final words. Super strong story but abrupt ending.
Joan
My Sister's Keeper by Jodi Picoult
This is a memorable book, but I wish it were not so long.
Rose
The Christmas Baking Cookbook by Editors of Cider Mill Press
I love the photos and the recipes in this cookbook. They are unique and unlike other Christmas baking cookbooks that I have read previously. I will enjoy looking through this and discovering new recipes. I hope to try a few of these recipes this holiday season. Beautifully done!
Linda
Shelterwood by Lisa Wingate
This historical fiction novel delves into a dark period of Oklahoma's past when greedy land barons exploited vulnerable "elf children" for their inherited land which was rich in timber or oil. There is a true life heroine, Kate Barnard, and two female fictional ones to move and inspire you. A well-told story that outraged me.
Kay
The Measure by Nikki Erlick
I enjoyed this book - the storyline was unlike any I have read before. The length of the string in your box determines the time a person has left to live. I gave it four stars because I thought it ended suddenly. I am glad I read THE MEASURE and recommend it as a good discussion book for book clubs.
Anne
The White Hare by Jane Johnson
Captivating, enthralling and unforgettable novel with vivid character portrayal, excellent description of the locale and an emotional story.
Athena
Who Is Maud Dixon? by Alexandra Andrews
A twisty mystery like THE PLOT featuring sinister mayhem among the literary world.
Sally
Look in the Mirror by Catherine Steadman
It was a page-turner thriller. I read it in two nights, wanting to know how it would end. The premise of the story is a bit over the top.
Michelle
The Love Elixir of Augusta Stern by Lynda Cohen Loigman
A lovely novel about late-in-life second chances, sprinkled with the author’s trademark magic!
Elizabeth
The Hypocrite by Jo Hamya
A debutante playwright invites her father to a play she wrote without telling him what it’s about. As he watches the play, he slowly realizes that it’s about a summer she spent with him 10 years before when she was 17. His memories of the summer are much different than hers. This is a very layered portrayal of family dysfunction. Who is the hypocrite?
Dianne
The Women by Kristin Hannah
Story brings back the good and bad memories of the late 60s. Well-developed characters and a totally engrossing read.
Liz
The Little Liar by Mitch Albom
This is not your every day story of the Holocaust. Truth is narrating the story of three young children and a Nazi officer. The story follows the children to adulthood. It is an extremely emotional journey, heartbreaking in parts but at the same time uplifting in other parts. I learned much about this terrible time in history that I did not know about, for instance what happened to the Jewish people that were from Greece.
Liz
My Husband said he zneede more Space, so I locked him Outside by Cynthia Walke McCullough
I expected this tiny book to be short vignettes about men and marriage. Instead it is just one-liners with family photographs of mostly children, that have nothing to do with the photo.
Kelley
The Paris Novel by Ruth Reichl
Sensuous, salivating detail of food as expected with Ruth Reichl's work. Has a mystery and the descriptions of Paris, small towns in France and couture are glorious!
Claire
When the Bones Sing by Ginny Myers Sain
I am a bit of a sucker for small town Appalachia as a setting for the supernatural, especially if it leans into dark/horror aspects, so the the atmosphere and vibes hit just right. I'm iffy on Dovie's character and her skepticism.
Francisca
The Queen of Sugar Hill by ReShonda Tate
3.5 stars. Subtitle: A Novel of Hattie McDaniel. Tate’s novel begins with the Oscar ceremony when McDaniel won for best supporting actress for her portrayal of Mammy in GONE WITH THE WIND. But Hattie McDaniel was so much more than that iconic role, and Tate gives us all of her. Having read this book, I have a new appreciation for the trailblazing that McDaniel and other Black actors of her generation did.
Simonne
The Ride of her Life by Elizabeth Letts
True story of Mainer Annie Wilkins who sets off on her horse, Tarzan, and is accompanied by her little dog Depeche Toi on a cross country journey to California in the early 1950s. Along the way, history of many towns are reviewed as well as the changing norms of the times.
Edie
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
Loved how she said things we are all thinking!!!
Pattie
Mobituaries by Mo Rocca
Lots of history about famous and not so famous people. Learning about their lives makes history fun.
Rose
Tell Me Everything by Elizabeth Strout
I love reading Elizabeth Strout's books. In TELL ME EVERYTHING, both Lucy Barton and Olive Kitteridge both are characters. Lucy is still living with her ex-husband, William. She walks often with her friend, Bob Burgess, an attorney. Bob is defending a man accused of murdering his mother. Through these talks, Bob and Lucy learn about each other, their lives, their fears, their thoughts. Olive lives in a retirement community, and Lucy visits her. They tell each other stories and Lucy confesses to Olive about her relationship with Bob. This is a story about murder, family, love, being seen, and so much more. I loved reading every bit of this story.
Rose
Now You See Me by Chris McGeorge
Robert's wife went missing a few years earlier. He writes a book, and after the book signing, he receives a call from Matthew, who is in prison. Matthew tells Robert that he was told to call Robert by Sam, the missing wife. He tells Robert a piece of information that only Robert and Sam knew. Matthew claims his innocence in the disappearance and probable death of 5 of his friends. All 6 of them entered a tunnel and only Matthew came out. He doesn't seem to remember what happened. So, Robert decides to investigate and what he finds is heartbreaking.
A different kind of mystery.
Rose
The Last Sister by Kendra Elliot
After Emily Mills discovers her employee, Lindsay, along with Lindsay's husband, Sean, dead, it brings back memories of finding her father dead. Her father's death caused Emily's sister, Tara, to leave home, and their mother to die by her own hand. These new deaths bring Zander Wells to the small Oregon town to investigate. A nasty thread of racism runs through the town and Emily, her sister Madison, their aunts, and Tara, as well as the townspeople have to come to terms with this ugly reality. A sad story highlighting the ugliness of racism.
Beth
Shanghai by Joseph Kanon
This book begins in Germany just before World War II. But it doesn't stay there for long. Daniel, a Jewish man, and Leigh and her mother, also Jewish, bored a luxury liner headed for Shanghai, China, as do many other Jewish people lucky enough to be escaping Germany. Of course, Daniel and Leigh form a relationship while they are on the ship. During that time, they also meet Yamada, a Japanese man who is a military policeman in the Kempeitai, the Japanese Nazis. When the three arrive in Shanghai, their relationships continue, with Daniel becoming involved in the violence so prevalent in the business he becomes involved in and also trying to save Leigh.
Elayne
Margo's Got Money Problems by Rufi Thorpe
A very differnt book that is funny as well as thoughtful.
Rose
We Love the Nightlife by Rachel Koller Croft
In 1979, two women, Nicola and Amber, meet in a disco. They love to dance, dress up, and have fun. But, then Amber realizes that Nicola is a vampire. Nicola turns Amber into a vampire. However, after Nicola kills everyone that Amber loves, Amber decides she has had enough. She gets together with Courtenay and develops a female friendship with her, and hatches a plan to take Nicola down.
I am not a fan of vampire books, so this one felt off for me.
kelly
All the Colors of the Dark by Chris Whitaker
This book changed my DNA. A masterpiece that spans decades allowing the reader to explore trauma and how it shapes us.
Krystyna
The Nature of Fragile Things by Susan Meissner
This author's books are all excellent reads and this one is no exception. It is the story of an Irish immigrant who comes to the U.S. for a better life. Unhappy with NY, she answers an ad in the newspaper from a man who is looking for a wife and mother for his daughter. What happens after this is the basis of the story. I could not put this book down!!!!
Rose
We'll Prescribe You a Cat by Syou Ishida
A charming story about the healing power of having a cat. When various people are struggling, the Kokoro Clinic prescribes a cat to go home with the person. The attachment they develop to the cat lasts a long time. I was particularly drawn to the story of the young girl who was struggling with cliques in school, and how her mother downplayed this struggle, but the physician listened to her carefully. That meant a lot that the physician would see that the child knew they were struggling, although her mother couldn't. If you like cats, you will love this story.
Rose
The Haunting of Moscow House by Olesya Salnikova Gilmore
This was tedious to read. Set in 1921, after the Bolshevik revolution, Russian soldiers take over the hope of an aristocratic family. Irina and Lili are forced to live in the attic, where they encounter ghosts of deceased family members. The ghosts want the real story of what happened in the revolution to be told. The story also delves into the sisters lives, their interests, and their loves.
While the story is based in fact, I think it could have been much more interesting without the supernatural element.
Becky
We Solve Murders by Richard Osman
Osman has written another intelligent murder mystery peopled with fully-drawn characters, an intricate plot, and a sense of humor. He does spend a fair amount of time establishing his characters, but the intelligence of the resulting plot and writing makes the time spent worthwhile. This time his series is peopled by a private detective (Amy Wheeler) protecting a world famous author (Rosie) who happens to be a scheming curmudgeon, and Amy’s father-in-law, Steve, a blissfully retired police detective. When bodies (several) and money (lots of money) show up, the question becomes who is Francois Loubert and why does he want Amy dead? Hijinks abound along with murder and mysterious characters.
Tiffany
Bad Liar by Tami Hoag
This is one of my favorite authors. This book was a page-turner as all of her books have been. Great plot and characters.
Rose
The Wedding People by Alison Espach
3.5 stars. Phoebe Stone is depressed. Her husband has left her for her best friend, Mia. So, Phoebe goes to RI to the prestigious Cornwall Inn where she and her husband had planned to go at some point. Phoebe plans to kill herself, but the hotel is filled with people who are getting ready for a wedding. The bride sees Phoebe and finds out Phoebe's plan. The bride, Lila, is a self-absorbed person, grieving over her father's death, but hiding it by planning an extravagant wedding. She is engaged to Gary, who is kind, but Phoebe senses they may not truly be in love.
This is a novel of a woman taking control of her life, gaining some new friendships, and some independence. However, some of the storylines were a bit outlandish and silly.
Richard N B
The Tunnels by Michelle Gagnon
Book One in the mystery series starring FBI agent Kelly Jones. A serial killer is targeting women on a New England college campus. This is a brutal, graphic murder mystery, and Jones is a tough lady who is up to the task. The pace is fast, the lead character is likeable, and the storyline held my attention, but I’m not sure I’d bother to read another in the series.
Tessa
Sincerely Sicily by Tamika Burgess
Sicily Jordan has looked forward to middle school with her besties, and their coordinated outfits. But shortly before school starts, she learns that she will be enrolled in a newer school, and she’ll have to wear a uniform! I thought this was really delightful. Sicily’s troubles range from “new school” blues to bullying to navigating a first crush to family drama around her chosen hairstyle to racism. I like the way Burgess dealt with Sicily’s conflicts, as well as the way she portrayed the girl’s awakening to her family’s background and culture as Black Panamanians. I’m going to recommend this to a couple of middle-schoolers I know.
Marsha
Hillbilly Elegy by J. D. Vance
Amazing story of J.D.'s life from a village of crazy hillbillies to Yale law school. So many obstacles he overcame. Also, there is much about his ideas of how to best help disadvantaged children.
