This contest period's winners were Ina K. from Queen Creek, AZ; Mary Anne B. from Gainesville, VA; and Nona P. from Perkasie, PA. Each received a copy of BROKEN COUNTRY by Clare Leslie Hall and THE STORY SHE LEFT BEHIND by Patti Callahan Henry.
Donna
Broken Country by Clare Leslie Hall
With its beautiful writing and well fleshed-out characters this poignant tale is an exquisite blend of historical fiction, romance, and an underlying mystery. It’s a close-up look at the strength and power of first love, loss, guilt and grief. This dual timeline story packs an emotional punch. A book to be savored.
Rose
Girl in Luv by Jay Crownover
Part 1 of 2 of the Luv Duet. Langley Vaughn is not looking forward to her stepsister's wedding for one reason - because her stepsister is marrying Langley's former boyfriend. Langley's father is very wealthy, so Langley uses her money to purchase a fake boyfriend to accompany her to all the wedding festivities. She meets Iker Alvarez, a tattooed soldier, who is stationed nearby. He would love the money she is offering as he is putting his brother through school. He is not interested in being a part of Langley's socialite life, however, he doesn't like the way Langley's sister treats her. So, as unwilling as he is, he slowly falls for Langley. However, his duty to the army is going to possibly destroy their relationship. Enjoyed it!
Rose
Boy in Luv by Jay Crownover
Part 2 of 2 of the Luv Duet series. After Iker leaves Langley following a romantic night together, Langley is furious. She tries her best to keep him out of her head. Yet, they meet again, shortly after Langley has accepted her dream job in another state. So, once again they are faced with hurdles on how to keep their relationship alive and navigate their family obligations. A satisfying conclusion to this romantic series. I loved that these books were short novels - and I enjoyed the romance of the characters.
Rose
Memorials by Richard Chizmar
Three students set out to research the stories behind memorials established on the roadsides of western PA/Appalachia as a project in their college class. The three of them, Billy, Troy, and Melody, all have a tragic past. Billy will videotape the memorials and together, they will find out the stories of those who died. However, they are met with resistance along the way. Horrific things and eerie events become the norm and the trio doesn't know who to trust. This novel was creepy from the start, and although I didn't know the full extent of what was going to happen, I definitely knew who was behind the horrors.
Rose
The Trap by Ava Glass
In this 3rd installment of the Emma Makepeace series, Emma is sent to Scotland, as they have intelligence that the Russians may be planning an assassination attack on members of the G7 due to meet in Edinburgh. She is assigned a cop, Kate Mackenzie, to accompany her, to help her navigate the city. As Emma is used as a pawn in the plan to stop the assassination attempt, Emma must get close to Nick Orlov. She must find out if he is compromised by the Russians.
This is a high stakes tale and is another worthy entry in this series. Emma is a flawed character and I loved how her humanity and flaws are presented in these novels.
Carolyn
Queens of Crime by Marie Benedict
A most delightful day of matching wits with five of the best mystery writers, all women! They are indeed queens as they decide to solve a really murder. Marie always entertains, but this has been my favorite. Well researching and perfectly paced. If you are looking for a grin-worthy book, choose this one.
Rose
Everyone This Christmas Has A Secret by Benjamin Stevenson
I really enjoyed this Christmas mystery which included various Christmas traditions, such as Secret Santa and the Advent Calendar. Ernest Cunningham is called to help his ex-wife Erin, because she is a suspect in the murder of her lover. As Ernest investigates, another murder happens. I like how the author strings us along, breaking the fourth wall to include the reader in the case, and telling us we have all the clues to solve the murder. Ern investigates the foundation of Erin's lover, and all the former addicts he helped. A clever and enjoyable mystery.
Ginny
The Briar Club by Kate Quinn
Engaging story set in Washington D. C. during early 50s involving a murder mystery as well as the personal stories of the women who lived together in a boarding house. Their individual stories were very different, but the author provided a cohesive narrative that drew them all together. The book was well written and an excellent look at the time period as well as a captivating story.
Diane
Beautiful Ugly by Alice Feeney
A really good read!
Anne
Anne of Green Gables by L. M. Montgomery
Anne’s uplifting spirit made this book a joy to read!
Melissa
Witchcraft for Wayward Girls by Grady Hendrix
Really liked book for the most part until the end. Some parts dragged. Story definitely could’ve been shorter. I don’t think it’s 3 stars nor 4 stars; maybe 3.8?
Rose
Cindy Divine: The Little Girl Who Frightened Kings by Shafter Bailey
Cindy is a young girl who is very close to her dad, David, a soldier. Her parents got pregnant with her when they were teens and decided to marry and keep the child. Mom Wanda is resentful, feels she is missing out on her dreams. David dies, Wanda remarries, and her new husband abuses Cindy. An angel appears to Cindy and guides her life. I was interested in the novel up until a few chapters after the angel appears. The story then became preachy, and the author's political views became very obvious when Cindy spoke to Congress. I think Cindy's dialog was well above her age level and sometime repetitive. I don't enjoy books that use religion to advance a political agenda, so this wasn't for me.
Beth
James by Percival Everett
Fabulous writing and retelling of a classic, but from a different perspective. The novel has its laugh-out-loud moments between two friends. It also shares painful realities about the past.
Teresa
The Stolen Queen by Fiona Davis
Another stellar book by Ms. Davis.
Cynthia
Horse by Geraldine Brooks
Good book but goes back and forth too much.
Pauline
James by Percival Everett
One gets a chance to view the Negro of Huckleberry Finn’s time in a very different perespective. A great social commentary on the lack of vision Whites had about the Black race.
Joan
The Mighty Red by Louise Erdrich
I love books where the setting is a character. In this book, we see the impact the Red River has on the inhabitants living around it. It took me a while to get into the story, but once I knew the role each character was playing, I was hooked.
Peri
The Little Italian Hotel by Phaedra Patrick
Who wouldn’t like someone to pay for a trip to Europe? This novel’s premise is that due to pending divorce, Ginnie Splinter gets the idea to use a celebratory trip, already paid for, to invite strangers to accompany her. This odd collection of strangers end up as good friends. It is just the environment to help Ginnie heal.
Barbara
The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett
I thought the first half of the book was interesting, but the second half dragged. There was a lot of things going on, passing as White, a trans man, a bounty hunter. Maybe too much. Jude and Reese's story didn't seem complete.
Wanda
The Guise of Another by Allen Erskins
Great story with many twists and surprises! Characters are all well written and describable. A fun read, didn’t want to put down and was excited and looking forward to picking it back up again to continue. Very good book! Definitely 5-star rating!
LisaMarie
A Killing Cold by Kate Alice Marshall
It has murder, mystery, romance and a twist. Loved it!
Rosa
Ordinary Grace by William Kent Krueger
I have long heard about the greatness of William Kent Krueger's books, and I finally read one, this book. I intend to start reading his entire body of work. This was an incredible coming-of-age book, told by Frank forty years after the events occurred when he was thirteen. It was 1961 and Frank and his younger brother Jake are getting through a very difficult summer, marked by many deaths in the small town of New Bremen, MN, where they live. Krueger's tale weaves in and out and his prose is poetic and beautiful. I didn't want the book to end but I couldn't wait to get to the end to see how everything resolved. I read this for book club and anticipate that there will be a lively discussion.
Dianne
The Housemaid by Freida McFadden
Twists in this story were a surprise I did not see coming as a reader. Storylines were well linked.
Mh
Alaska by James Michener
I read this book in a Reader’s Digest Condensed Book, but thought they could have condensed it a little more. I enjoyed the history of Alaska and learned a lot of things, especially about the attack on the Aleutian Islands by Japan during WWII. As usual, this author brings the history alive by making the reader interested in the individual characters.
Jana
Dream State by Eric Puchner
Loved, loved this new author who writes so eloquently about love, family, friends, connection. Highly recommend it.
Nonie
The Business Trip by Jessie Garcia
Thriller that kept me wanting to keep reading until the end.
Rona
The Spirit Keeper by K. B. Laugheed
The setting of this book is in 1747 in PA. A teenage girl is kidnapped by Indians. One of the Indians is considered a holyman, who has had visions of her and wants to bring her to his people. The details the journey they make together. I am always fascinated by the Native American culture so I did enjoy this book and seeing the characters evolve during their journey.
Cynthia
The Stolen Queen by Fiona Davis
From streets from New York to Cario, Egypt, Charlotte has connections to both. The museum she works at has an artifact stolen and since it’s part of a huge display she knows where to look...
Nona
My Side of the River by Elizabeth Camarillo Gutierrez
This is a book everyone should read. The message in this book continues today and it is unjust and cruel. It is a must-read!
Maureen
Yellow Face by R. F. Kuang
Interesting book about an author and steps for publication of book.
Donna
Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano
Most of this novel is told by three alternating characters about the Padavano family consisting of four very close sisters. Julia is a planner, Sylvia is a romantic, Cecelia an artist and Emeline a nurturer. Julia meets and marries William, who never experienced love from his parents and suffered from depression and loves basketball. Each person is very different from the other, but they all love each other. There is a struggle when life problems occur. The four sisters are a reminder of the sisters in the novel LITTLE WOMEN. Regardless of what happens, family love proves to be stronger.
Donna
Red River Road by Anne Downes
Australia: One year ago, Phoebe was taking a solo trip in a camper along the coast. She posted on social media often stating where she was, what she had seen and where she would be next. Three months into her trip the posts stopped and Phoebe hasn’t been heard of since. Katy decided she would trace Phoebe’s posts and find out what happened to her. Early in the trip she discovered a disheveled frightened girl hiding in the camper. Between them, they believe they can help each other, though they each have secrets. Soon, strange things begin to appear in and around the camper. Katy thinks it has to do with the disappearance of Phoebe. Beth, her passenger, believes the stalker is looking for her. They both sense danger.
Meggan
Family Family by Laurie Frankel
The characters are are witty and totally relatable. The book is a different take on teenage pregnancy, adoption, and single motherhood.
Donna
The Neighborhood by Erina Bridget Rings
Gretchen and Jarrod have moved into what appears to be a nice quiet neighborhood. The same day the movers arrive one of the neighbors appears in their home and announces that she is there to help Gretchen unpack and set up the kitchen, while her husband is doing the same out in the garage “their way”. This is only the beginning of a wild ride of all of the neighbors with their craziness and quirks. This is a quick and fun book to read, and you’re wondering when you turn the page, “What’s next?"
Donna
The Trap by Ava Glass
Emma Makepeace is a British intelligence officer working for a secret agency in London. A global G7 meeting is about to take place in Edinburgh, Scotland. It’s been discovered the ruthless Russian FSB agent, Vladimir Balakin, has arrived in Edinburgh. He can only be there to disrupt the meetings or assassin one of the attendees of the G7. A high security alert is in effect and Emma along with other intelligence agencies have only hours to figure out what is going to happen, who is the target and prevent it from happening. This is a page-turning novel and gives some insight to the challenges of intelligence gathering and execution.
Donna
Tell Me Everything by Elizabeth Strout
Autumn is a small town along the coast of Maine following the covid pandemic. Lucy Barton is a fiction writer and has been wondering about the meaning of life. She regularly visits her friend Olive Kitteridge who is now in a retirement home. They share stories about people who have unrecorded lives. Everyone has a story that might go back to their childhood or possibly current. The stories may be affecting your life, your decisions and who you are as a person. In this novel you learn the stories of some of the characters in Elizabeth’s previous novels. This book includes a murder, secrets, broken people, lessons and a love story.
Beth
Knife by Salman Rushdie
Rushdie suffered a horrific attack, but this book felt like more of a cathartic release than a story to be shared.
Donna
A Family Shattered by Roberta Kagan
1938, Berlin, Germany. This is the second novel of a series and easily read as a standalone book. Michal and Taavi have two daughters that must be protected. Taavi is a Jew who is arrested and taken away. Michal is not a Jew and she has to make the decision of how to keep her daughters safe. Michal is determined to find out where Taavi is located. Eventually, she is also arrested and sent to a camp. The love, hopes, strengths, trials and fates of family and friends at the hands of the German Nazis are horrific. This novel is told in alternating voices of both Michal and Taavi.
Donna
The Next Wife by Kaira Rouda
Kate and John have created a company together. They have one daughter who is attending college. They are successful in business and as a family. Kate is blindsided when John tells her that he’s in love with his assistant and wants wants a divorce. His new wife, Tish, is half John’s age and although she’s young, she’s had a rough life and is manipulative. Kate has a plan on how to break up the marriage and get her revenge. This is a story of the first and second wives challenge to be one step ahead of the other.
Donna
The Return by Rachel Harrison
Four best friends haven’t seen each other for a number of years. One has been missing for two years and the group decides to spend a weekend together with the hope of reconnecting and learning what had happened to their friend that had been missing. This is not my normal genre of reading so I didn’t know what to expect.
Donna
The Berry Pickers by Amanda Peters
A Mi’kmaq family (indigenous people) with five children live in Nova Scotia. They travel to Maine in the summer to pick blueberries to earn a living. Ruthie is four years old when she disappears from the fields. She grows up believing her name is Norma and is the only child in a wealthy home. She has dreams that are discounted by her mother who is extremely protective. After her parents pass away, she learns how she came to be Norma from her mother’s sister. Together they research to find her real family. This is a tender story about family loss, hope and love.
Donna
The Keeper of the Stars by Buck Turner
Ellie and Jack experienced their first love when Ellie spent the summer visiting her aunt in Tennessee. They were from two different worlds as Ellie is from a well-to-do family in Indiana and destined to go to college and do great things. Jack is living in a small community enjoying fishing and boating. Ellie returns to her home, attends college and is well respected in her field. Jack authors a novel about his experiences. After twelve years of limited communications, Ellie receives a copy of Jack’s book. She returns to Tennessee and they pick up where they left off. There are complications as Ellie is offered a coveted position at NASA in Texas. A sacrifice will need to be made in order for their relationship to continue.
Donna
Echoes of Us by Joy Jordan-Lake
Joannie loves to fly airplanes and when women were accepted as pilots during WWII she immediately signed up and became one of the best. She and three men (a Tennessee farm boy, a German POW and a Jewish Englishman) became the best of friends. 2022: Hadley and Kitzie are event planners and are hired to organize a reunion of the families of Joannie and her three friends. Their research in reaching out to the families build a puzzle and a need to understand the connection between the honorees. This love story of duel timelines and told by several points of view.
Donna
Framed: Astonishing True Stories of Wrongful Convictions by John Grisham and Jim McCloskey
This novel describes the history of 10 true convictions of men sent to prison for life or death row based on lies, intimidation, threats, rewards to prisoners for lying and suppressed evidence at trials by the legal system. This is an eye-opening novel and reveals the flaws of some people we are suppose to trust. The subject matter is upsetting.
Donna
The Cure for Women: Dr. Mary Putnam Jacobi and the Challenge to Victorian Medicine That Changed Women's Lives Forever by Lydia Reeder
1800s: Mary Putnam Jacobi as a young girl was interested in the medical field, but it was a male profession as women were to stay home and have babies. This did not stop her from fulfilling her dream of becoming a doctor. She was determined and would not be deterred. She excelled in her studies and preserved getting into colleges to get her degree. Nothing would stop her and other women who were destined to be doctors. They banded together and opened their own hospitals.
This is a novel about not giving up even if all seems impossible.
Lisa
Faith Bass Darling's Last Garage Sale by Lynda Rutledge
An unusual story about a small town and family with wonderful writing. The chapters had a clever beginning with a description of some of the items that Faith is selling. I found the unburdening of past experiences and the way that the author wove them in to be particularly interesting. Also, the book sheds a light on the effect of Alzheimer's on the individual, family and friends. It was hard to believe that the time frame was one day.
Richard N B
The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick
What a treasure! This inventive, unusual novel in words and pictures won the Caldecott medal for illustration. The book is intended for children, but will delight adults as well. The story of Hugo, Isabelle and Papa Georges is enthralling. But the drawings…oh, the drawings! They are rich and subtle and complex and detailed, showing incredible depth of field and use of light and shadow.
Donna
Society of Lies by Lauren Ling Brown
Maya is looking forward to her college reunion where she’ll see her sister, Naomi, who is graduating and her friends when attending Princeton 10 years ago. Maya was notified that Naomi died is an apparent accident. Maya had joined a secret society when she was at Princeton and member had been killed. She tried to discourage Naomi from joining, but she joined anyway. When Maya reached the college to pick up Naomi’s ashes, she began an investigation of her sister’s death with the help of her friends. Many secrets surface and Maya becomes a target.
This novel had some interesting twists.
Geri
Shadow Divers by Robert Kurson
A good nonfiction account of a German U boat that sank off the coast of New Jersey. Being from NJ it hits home
Susan
City of Night Birds by Juhea Kim
Very interest ballet read.
Dianna
We Begin at the End by Chris Whitaker
This is my favorite read of the year thus far. Mr. Whitaker does a phenomenal job of creating characters that you fall in love with and root for and cry for. The story kept me engaged and connected until the very end, and the twist at the end was really unexpected. I highly recommend this book as well as his most recent book, ALL THE COLORS OF THE DARK.
Dorothy
The Boyfriend by Freida McFadden
Loved this book. The ending blew me away!
Joyce
Within Arm’s Reach by Ann Napolitano
This novel provided a glimpse into very believable characters of a large Catholic family. Each one displayed a wide range of emotions and their own distinct way of dealing with large life events. This author was new to me, and I felt she crafted a well-paced story and didn’t rush to finish. The ending resolved quietly. A satisfying read, for sure. I will read her other titles soon!
Nan
The Mistletoe Mystery by Nita Prose
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! It’s subtitled: A MAID NOVELLA and the third book in this series. Molly is a maid at the Regency Grand Hotel who tries to discover if she has mistaken a frog for a prince. I can’t wait for the next book in the series which will be released this April.
Joni
Tell Me Everything by Elizabeth Strout
The stories were off-the-wall for me. Best part of book was Bob’s relationship with Matt from his mother's death to the solution and on. This was probably my least favorite Strout book!
Pam
What the Chicken Knows by Sy Montgomery
Who would think I would fall in love with a nonfiction book about chickens? Only Sy Montgomery could make that happen!
Pam
Famous Last Words by Gillian McAllister
I loved this riveting thriller (thank you Gillian McAllister) with its relatable characters, poignant moments, twists and surprises. I honestly could not put the audiobook (thank you Emilia Fox) down.
Jeanmarie
Beautiful Ugly by Alice Feeney
I’m not used to reading mysteries but thought I’d give this a try. After a few chapters, I made a deal with myself to read this book only before dark. It was so good and kept drawing me further and further in; I read the next day in one sitting. Mysteries are still not my go-to, but this was really a great read. But remember my rule - read this book before dark.
Joan
Force of Nature by Jane Harper
I have done a bit of hiking in Australia. Our guide carried rattlesnake medicine. The book brought back memories, but I did not like the characters. The investigators were the most likeable.
Colleen
Show Don't Tell by Curtis Sittenfeld
Short stories dealing with divorce, college reunions, friendships revisited. Characters you can warm up to quickly. Stories keep you engaged. My recommendation would be to completely read this short story in one sitting.
MARILYN
Here One Moment by Liane Moriarty
Had a bit of trouble keeping characters straight. The concept makes me think of THE MEASURE by Nikki Erlick.
Pam
The Quiet Librarian by Allen Eskens
Loved that this dual timeline mystery thriller covered the less-known war in Bosnia, and that a "quiet librarian" in current time was a deadly militia fighter from the past with a bounty on her head! When her good friend is murdered by an old Serbian enemy, she must tap into her legendary skills to bring him to justice. Lots of suspense, drama, action, and a plot element that pulls at the heartstrings.
Pam
More or Less Maddy by Lisa Genova
Realistic look at how bipolar disease affected a young college student and her family. Rather abrupt ending.
Susan
None of This Is True by Lisa Jewel
I read this book in three days. It had a couple of twists I didn't see coming. Josie and Alix meet accidentally in the restroom of a restaurant on the night of their 45th birthdays. Josie becomes obsessed with Alix's lifestyle because hers so different. A true stalking takes place.
Pam
The Lightkeeper's Daughters by Jean Pendziwol
A beautiful dual timeline historical fiction of a family that tended a lighthouse in Canada on Lake Superior. Wonderful sense of place, complex characters, and a twisty mystery made this a special read.
Kathy
Somewhere Sisters by Erika Hayakaski
The story is compelling but Erika’s writing feels choppy.
Sandy
The Lost Apothecary by Sarah Penner
Another winner! Caroline Parcewell is supposed to go to London with her husband to celebrate their 10th anniversary but learns he has been having an affair, so she ends up going alone. She discovers a little blue bottle while mudlarking and her adventure starts there. A wonderful tale about a woman who makes potions to help women rid themselves of their unwanted men.
Sandra K.
Precipice by Robert Harris
I am a fan of Robert Harris’ books and I especially liked this one. I learned a great deal about the time surrounding the start of World War I. The story was fast paced and full of twists.
Simonne
Tell Me Everything by Elizabeth Strout
Most of Ms. Strout’s characters from Crosby, Maine are back: the Burgess brothers, Lucy Barton, her estranged husband William and even Olive Kitteridge...with a murder mystery thrown in! This is mostly the story of Bob Burgess, a true “sin eater”.
Carol
Kills Well With Others by Deanna Raybourn
This is the sequel to KILLERS OF A CERTAIN AGE. This is about female assassins in their 60s and it’s like watching an action movie. It turns out that women do kill. This is the story of Billy, Helen, Natalie and Mary, Alice. They haven’t worked together for a while, but they’ve gotten back together to find a mole who infiltrated their organization, which is called the museum and they are tasked with figuring out who the mole is and to kill this person. The story is about what they have to go through to find this person and how do they protect themselves and each other. It is funny, it’s sad, and it’s enjoyable. It’s a great series.
Carol
Wordhunter by Stella Sands
A mystery whose protagonist gets her greatest enjoyment from diagramming sentences. That’s what the WORDHUNTER by Stella Sands is about. It’s original plot is captivating. It has a interesting protagonist, who is Maggie who is a grad student studying forensics at a small university in Florida, and she is asked to help the FBI analyze the linguistic forensics of a would-be serial killer. It’s the story of how she goes about that and the subsequent changes in her life and the mystery surrounding this killer. Highly enjoyable, recommended for anybody who loves mysteries.
Carol
Wild, Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy
I am a huge fan of this author. I have read her previous two books, one which was called MIGRATIONS and the second, ONCE THERE WERE WOLVES. Both were a five star reads for me and I highly recommend you read those two books as well. This is a thriller set on a remote island between Australia and Antarctica. Four family members and one stranger are trapped on an island with no means of communication. The story is about this group of people in this research station where they’re studying environmental change and the consequences to all of the world. This is an unputdownable and highly engaging story. The plot is terrific, the characters are really interesting. It’s written eloquently and is wonderful.
Rose
James Ed Hoskins and the One-Room Schoolhouse: The Unprosecuted Crime Against Children by Shafter Bailey
There was a lot in this book. A Teacher of the Year multiple times, James Ed, has an idea to bring Kentucky K-12 schools to the highest rank. However, he is being stymied by his boss, Penny Jones. James Ed is divorced from his love, Samantha, after cheating on her. However, he claims he never stopped loving her. Meanwhile, he is having affairs with married women. James Ed's plan to improve schools is to go back to the one room schoolhouse concept. He claims it will save money, increase pay for schools, reduce class size, and rocket Kentucky to #1 in the U.S. This part of the book was long winded and wordy. Then corruption, blackmail, and revenge all enter the picture. However, James Ed can't be persuaded to change his morals. Skip it.
Rose
Fragile Sanctuary by Catherine Cowles
This is not an ordinary romance. Rhodes (Rho) was a victim of a fire when she was 13. She lost her family and was taken in by her best friend's family, who fostered her and others. Now, years later, Rho wants to renovate her family's house. Anson is part of the construction crew, a fire specialist, working for Rho's brother Shep. They meet and he is brooding over her recklessness. Rho doesn't understand why he is so closed off, as this is Shep's best friend. As they learn more about each other, Rho realizes that Anson is hiding a lot behind his rough exterior. When Rho's life is in danger, Anson's instincts are needed to save Rho. I enjoyed reading this novel, and I liked the mystery behind the fire and the guilt that Anson had.
donna
The Night We Lost Him by Laura Dave
Well written. I did not have the ending figured out before it was revealed.
Tessa
The Death of a Pumpkin Carver by Lee Hollis
Book # 8 in the HAYLEY POWELL MYSTERY series has Hayley’s ex-husband Danny back in town and suspected of murder. This is only the second book from this series that I’ve read. This one is better than the first one, but not stellar. There are several recipes, some of which I thought sounded delicious.
Donna
Hold Strong by Robert Dugoni
Robert Dugoni is absolutely one of my favorite authors. Based on true life events, he magically creates the story of Sam Carlson who is a POW in the Philippines during WWII and how he survived being held prisoner in the cargo hold of a ship when Japan started losing the war. The book was hard to read at times and unputdownable at others. While THE WORLD PLAYED CHESS is my favorite of his books, I'm so glad I read this one.
Sheree
Presumed Guilty by Scott Turow
This book was a slow start but once you got passed the first quarter of the book the pace picked up and I had time putting it down. I thought I knew who committed the murder, but I was wrong.
Ivy
Five-Carat Soul by James McBride
I usually don't care to read short stories. I would much rather sink into a good long story. However, McBride creates unique settings and delivers moral lessons, long to be remembered after the last page.
Pam
Love and Saffron by Kim Fay
Poignant and sweet, a story of friendship told through letters and recipes. Very well written with emotional depth and yummy recipes, this one shows the value of connection in our lives and how it helps us move forward.
Linda
The Women by Kristin Hannah
Our book club selection for March is THE WOMEN; it's an eye-opening account of what the nurses and women went through in Vietnam during the War. We all highly recommend it.
Dianne
The Favor by Nicci French
This book is a thriller/suspense story. The protagonist is Jude, a geriatric doctor, who had a fling as a teenager with Liam, who suddenly reappears in her life requesting a favor. Jude's character was annoying as she constantly makes decisions that put her in harm's way, and she becomes the focus of a murder investigation. I couldn't connect with any of the other characters. Eventually the secret of Jude's past is revealed and this illuminates her reason for doing Liam the favor. The ending clarifies the 'favor.' I gave it 3 stars because French's writing is excellent.
Dianne
The Road from Belhaven by Margot Livesey
This is a quietly told story, excellently written by Livesey. It takes place in Scotland in the late 1800s. The protagonist is young Lizzie Craig, who is gifted with 'second sight' and as an orphan, lives with her maternal grandparents on their farm in the kingdom of Fife, a part of Scotland that is isolated and surrounded on three sides by water. Although they all work hard, they suffer from poverty. This is a coming-of-age story, and Lizzie eventually goes to live in Glasgow to find work and be with Louis, who she hopes to marry someday. But life doesn't work out exactly the way Lizzie wants and she becomes pregnant, which leads to a heart-wrenching situation. Thankfully, the ending put a welcome smile on my face.
Elizabeth
Claire, Darling by Callie Kazumi
My fiancé doesn’t work here? How can that be? CLAIRE, DARLING is a pull-you-in psychological thriller debut that will have you quickly turning the pages to the unexpected ending. Will you figure out how it ends? Thank you to the publisher for a copy of this book.
Linda
Year of Wonders by Geraldine Brooks
The book is a historical fiction account of a 1665 plague in England and its effect on the grief-stricken, fearful people of a small town. Thanks to the author's description of time/place and the depth of her characters, I was absorbed in this grim story. The protagonist, Anna, is the "shining light."
Jeanne
Three Days in June by Anne Tyler
THREE DAYS IN JUNE by Anne Tyler is a wonderful story about a wedding and a family crisis when the mother of the bride loses her job the day before the wedding. To add to the dynamics, her ex-husband shows up on her doorstep with no place to stay with a shelter cat in a crate under his arm. From the very first page to the last word, I loved the writing style, the dialogue between the characters and the delightful storyline.
Toni
A Very Typical Family by Sierra Godfrey
I really enjoyed this book. It had drama, reconnecting with family, belief in oneself, forgiveness, hope, and family dynamics. The characters were believable, and the setting of Santa Cruz was awesome.
Edie
The Connellys of County Down by Tracey Lange
It made me realize how important it is to communicate with each other!
Rose
There Are Rivers in the Sky by Elif Shafak
An epic tale told over centuries, all connected by a single drop of water. It begins in Mesopotamia, when a king builds a great library, but it is destroyed. His beloved poem, Gilgamesh, is saved. This poem is rediscovered in the 19thC by Arthur, born as king of the sewers. He becomes an apprentice at a publishing company, his genius at deciphering cuneiform is revealed. Narin is a young girl who goes deaf at an early age. But, her grandmother wants to baptize her and teach her the family traditions. But ISIS and its cruel regime take its toll with a massacre in 2014. Finally, Zaleekah, hydrologist, divorces her husband, disappointing her uncle. She balks against his plans. All are connected by a single drop of water. Beautiful tale.
Theresa
A Song for Nagasaki by Paul Glynn
I read this book because it is being referenced in the Hallow app for the 40 Day Lenten Journey.
Jeanine
After Annie by Anna Quindlen
Touching, loving, caring memories of Annie written with heart as Anna always does.
Rose
Ben & Me: In Search of a Founder's Formula for a Long and Useful Life by Eric Weiner
A sometimes humorous, but always informative, look at Ben Franklin. The author infuses stores of Ben's life and adds in his own attempts to follow Ben's footsteps. Enjoyable and different look at one of the country's founding fathers.
Rose
The Close-Up by Pip Drysdale
Zoe is an author looking for her next blockbuster novel. She sees Zach, a movie star, that she had been involved with, for a brief time, a few years ago. He woos her again, and she thinks things are great until scenes from her first book start happening to her. You can feel the terror and confusion that Zoe feels as she wonders who to trust and who is trying to harm her. I can honestly say that I did not expect the ending.
Kari
The Henna Artist by Alka Joshi
Well written. Enjoyed the cultural heritage.
Jackie
Finlay Donovan Is Killing It by Elle Cosimano
Good book. I’ve never read anything by her before. I’m looking forward to reading the rest of the series. I like that it’s amusing at times, but it also keeps you wondering what’s gonna happen next.
Rose
To Have and to Heist by Sara Desai
A laugh-out-loud, outlandish, rollicking, good fun, romantic heist story! Simi is on a losing streak and is living in her family's basement. Her best friend, Chloe, calls her, frantic. She is trapped in a museum and a valuable necklace is missing. Chloe knows she will be accused. Simi tries to rescue her when "Oliver Twist" grabs her. She is instantly intrigued by this stranger, later identified as Jack. Now she has an opportunity to make some money, but it gets her and her group of friends in some dangerous situations. It is a slapstick comedy of errors with some witty dialog. I am looking forward to reading Book 2 of this romantic comedy series.
Gabriel
Tilda Is Visible by Jane Tara
It leaned too far into being a self-help book for my tastes, making the messages (cure yourself with the power of positive thinking) heavy-handed and the plot basic. It felt like it was pushing very hard for a specific brand of thinking/believing/healing which often deprived the story of the nuance and deeper discussions that the topics it addressed deserve. The ending particularly sat poorly with me due to this approach. Despite, in premise, being highly character-focused, it also felt impersonal somehow, perhaps because of the combination of the generic, predictable choices for the plot and characters and the unclear tone that poorly infused serious looks at misogyny, chronic illness, and domestic violence with juvenile humor.
Andi
The Last Grand Tour by Michael N. McGregor
While this wasn't my favorite read, it had a very strong sense of place. If you are a lover of Europe you will be immersed in it!
Elizabeth
A Map to Paradise by Susan Meissner
Set during the McCarthy era, we meet three women with different backgrounds and current situations. They all have secrets - how will they become connected? A MAP TO PARADISE started out slowly for me, but once the background information of each character was revealed and their predicaments were revealed, I enjoyed a thoughtful, well-researched read.
Allie
Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy
I really enjoyed this book. There was an end-of-the-world feeling with a little bit of romance and family drama. It kept you wanting to read so you'd know what happened with all the characters.
Allie
Look Closer by David Ellis
So good. Keeps you engaged and wondering what the heck is going on. It unfolds nicely and leaves you wanting more.
Barbara
Maya & Natasha by Elyse Durham
A wonderful story of twin sisters who are born in tragedy in Russia in 1941. As newborns, their mother, a prima ballerina, commits suicide and the girls are raised by the mother’s best friend in the ballet to become ballerinas themselves.
Debra
All Our Beautiful Goodbyes by Julianne MacLean
I invite you to experience the magic of life on Sable Island. Amongst the raw beauty and shifting sands, you will find the strong bonds of family and community. You will experience the origins of love stories, the birth of dreams and the granting of miracles. Fall in love with the characters as they navigate through all of their beautiful hellos and goodbyes. Beloved characters treasured their second chances. Gratitude was woven throughout their lives and experiences. Truly a heartwarming story. I loved the scenes involving the wild horses of the island. An encounter between the horses and a special visitor was exceptional. I won’t soon forget it! I really loved the ending! I read it with a smile on my face and tears in my eyes.
Denise
The God of the Woods by Liz Moore
Beautiful prose.
Susan
The Goddess of Warsaw by Lisa Barr
This was a well-done look at a fictional woman during the final days of the Warsaw Ghettos in WWII. A fictional character based loosely on Lauren Bacall looks back on her role as a fighter in the underground going back and forth between the ghetto and the Polish side. There are plenty of twists and turns to the story that kept my interest. It was hard to tell without research which parts were real and which were fictional. I wish the author's note was more specific. But in terms of love, danger, revenge, fear, guts, THE GODDESS OF WARSAW has plenty of them all.
Sara
Dream Count by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
Is true happiness ever attainable or is it just a fleeting state? Themes of love, motherhood, identity, privilege, longing, regret, and the search for connection are explored in this complex and layered story. A distinctly feminist note rings throughout the book. The atmosphere of pre-lockdown uncertainty of 2020 pandemic is only a backdrop for the reminiscing of the characters. This is my first read of Adichie’s and I really enjoyed it, but felt it was a tad too long. The gender strictures put upon them is the culture of what is expected of Nigerian women. The universal yearning to be known and loved ties each of these women together. I found the character of Kadiatou to be the centerpiece of this book.
Elizabeth
Age of Vice by Deepti Kapoor
Interesting story about a poor boy who was sold after his father's death and how he survives and intertwines with the son of the head of a crime family in India. It's full of violence and drugs. Not for the squeamish.
Karen
Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt
This was incredibly slow and depressing and had shallow, depressing characters. Only got two stars because it semi-redeemed itself at the end of way too many pages.
Sue
The Business Trip by Jesse Garcia
Two women traveling on a plane, both send messages about a mystery man, who is he? So many twists and OMG moments!
Brenda
Shell Games by Bonnie Kistler
Twist after twist after twist. Love that! The ending left me thinking "Well huh. I was wondering about that."
Julia
The Life Impossible by Matt Haig
I like the premise of the book of one grief stricken individual saving another from their grief. However, this letter/email is quite lengthy and at times tends to wander too much from reality to be believable for this reader. I do like how everything is wrapped up in the end, and individuals are released from the guilt that holds them back from living their lives to the fullest. This message is one that is desperately needed in our world today; some better editing could tighten the storyline and achieve this goal.
Charlene
The Tea Girl of Hummingbird Lane by Lisa See
Lisa See describes the mountain topography for tea growing vividly. The story follows a young ethnic Chinese girl through her struggles to leave her traditions behind but ultimately return to those traditions meaningful for her. The story of quality tea is woven through the characters and the story. I plan to read more of the author’s books.
Shelley
Once You Were Mine by Elizabeth Langston
Absolutely excellent read! This book is so well written and leaves you feeling an entire whirlwind of emotions. The author handles a very difficult subject with grace while weaving a story I did not want to put down. Highly recommend!!!
Christina
The Favorites by Layne Fargo
This was a really enjoyable read. I was engaged from the beginning to the end.
Christina
Famous Last Words by Gillian McAllister
This is a thriller that will keep you guessing until the end. I enjoyed reading this book and thought the story was very well crafted.
Teresa
Behind Closed Doors by B. A. Paris
While I thoroughly enjoyed this book (I'd been waiting years to read it), it was extremely claustrophobic and I had a rather difficult time getting through some of the scenes; I get this same feeling watching prison movies!
Brumby
The Keeper of Lost Things by Ruth Hogan
I adored this book. I loved how it was a tender story of many different characters that all wove together at the end. Sunshine was my favorite!
Linda
Kills Well With Others by Deanna Raybourn
Pretty good book about four women assassins. These women take out nasty criminals. The catch is these women are in their 60s. They have been doing this for 40 years. They want to retire. Someone is out to kill them. They need to find out who. They go all over the world to track this person down. Quite an exciting book.
Joanne
The Wedding People by Alison Espach
Funny and an interesting view of depression and finding your voice.
Judy
Hold Strong by Robert Dugoni
A story about a POW captured by Japanese and how he endured.
Debra
Broken Country by Clare Leslie Hall
This was a propulsive, emotional and immersive reading experience. The chapters are short - jumping around in time, so I just couldn’t stop reading!! This novel is a blend of literary fiction, romance, family drama, mystery and courtroom thriller all in one amazing book! This story will stay with me for a very long time! One of my top reads so far in 2025!
Rose
The Queens of Crime by Marie Benedict
When Dorothy Sayers is asked to join a murder club along with Agatha Christie, she decdes to expand the group to include three other female mystery writers. Together with Ngaio Marsh, Margery Allingham, and Baroness Emma Orczy, they become the Queens of Crime. To lend legitimacy to their quintet, they decide to solve a real murder. A young nurse was killed during a trip to France. As they delve into her life, they discover some secrets that were hoped to be kept hidden by the murderer. As the women uncover clues to the murder, they have squabbles about procedure, and a bit of ego comes into play. Additionally, there are some secrets within the group that have been kept secret. A different look at how female writers honed their craft.
Betty Jo
Horse by Geraldine Brooks
Fantastic fiction about the horse Lexington. Loved how she tied the historic fiction with today.
Angela
Beautiful Ugly by Alice Feeney
I was a little disappointed in the book.
Rose
Middletide by Sarah Crouch
Elijah and Nikita are teenagers when they fall in love. But, Elijah has a dream to be a writer, so he leaves their small town and goes to San Francisco to follow his dream, promising to come back in a few years to meet her. She agrees. However, he doesn't return. Now, 17 years later, his father has died and Elijah returns to the town. Nikita is now widowed. There is a new beautiful doctor in town. When she is found dead, Elijah is arrested for her murder, but he swears he didn't do it. This book reminded me a little of WHERE THE CRAWDADS SING in that it is a murder mystery inside of a love story, of sorts. The book read very quickly for me, and I enjoyed the character development of Elijah, highlighting his growth and his struggle
Diane
The Girl from Greenwich Street by Lauren Willig
Willig, who is a historian (well versed in the social and political norms the early 19th century with her “Pink Carnation” series set during the Napoleonic Wars era), lawyer, AND talented author, proves that she is the perfect match for this narrative. She explores the groundbreaking first murder trial with realistic detail and action as well as her characteristic wit.
Wanda
The Guise of Another by Allen Eskins
A thriller and story full of twists with every turn of the page! Characters well written, this story keeps moving without delay. Another great written book by Allen Erskins. Look forward to reading more.
Jeanne
The Story She Left Behind by Patti Callahan Henry
Author Patti Callahan Henry has created the fictional world of writing prodigy Bronwyn Newcastle Fordham in order to introduce readers to real-life Barbara Newhall Follett. In 1927, Follett created her own language as a child of twelve and had a book published. In 1939 she disappeared and her vanishing remains a mystery today. In THE STORY SHE LEFT BEHIND, Fordham's daughter, Clara, is contacted by a man in London who claims to have a satchel with Fordham's papers inside. Clara and her eight-year-old daughter, Wynnie, embark on a trip across the Atlantic in order to try to solve the puzzle of what has happened to Bronwyn. What follows is an intriguing and masterful narrative of ordinary people doing their very best.
LisaMarie
Maria by Michelle Moran
If you loved The Sound of Music you will love this heartbreaking, historic detail of a novel. Highly recommend!
Susan
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon
I enjoyed learning about Martha and her life as a midwife.
Elizabeth
The Lion Women of Tehran by Marjan Kamali
I loved this book! The female characters were well drawn and the plot moved at a good pace. Its message continues to resonate today.
Rebecca
Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros
Not being a fantasy person, I was hesitant to jump on the bandwagon. But once I took the plunge, oh my!! Fast-paced, exciting, and a true escape from our world and events going on now. I could not put it down.
Jana
Dream State by Eric Puchner
Loved loved this book about friendship, love, connection. Reading this author for first time and would love to read more of his books!
Beth
The Pint of No Return by Ellie Alexander
THE PINT OF NO RETURN is a fun, cozy murder mystery set in the small town of Leavenworth, Washington, during the annual Oktoberfest celebration. Told from the perspective of female brewer, Sloan, the story focuses on the invasion of tourists and a movie crew during the celebration and the demise of an obnoxious documentary host, the ubiquitous presence of an overzealous realtor, and the persistence of Sloan’s cheating husband to win her back. Sprinkled with colorful characters and plot twists, THE PINT OF NO RETURNn was my bedtime escape from reality.
Luella
Idolfire by Grace Curtis
Good fantasy. The descriptions were so good. The story was complex, held your attention throughout.
Luella
We Tell Ourselves Stories by Alissa Wilkinson
A biography of sorts of a woman who was determined to make herself someone relevant. Interesting stories of what happened on the way.
Chris
Half Blood Blues by Esi Edugyan
An interesting read!
Gina
Homeseeking by Karissa Chen
Loved this beautiful, epic novel. It is a story about survival and regret. I am interested in literary historical fiction and this amazing novel was incredible! The story of two young lovers whose life is shaped by the Chinese civil war. Their stories are intertwined with a forward and reverse timeline, which kept the novel exhilarating and surprising. The prose is gorgeous, the characters are complex, and the history not as well known to me.
Susan
Blue Sisters by Coco Mellors
Addiction is a family affair.
Erin
Creation Lake by Rachel Kushner
The narrator of this fascinating novel has been hired by unknown interests to infiltrate a commune in the French countryside. Her vivid voice and sociopathic tendencies make this a particularly compelling story, especially as she reads the secret correspondence between the commune leader and a local cave-dwelling hermit, whose musings on Neanderthals, Homo sapiens, and humanity's place in the universe slowly affect her own perspective.
Elizabeth
Beach Vibes by Susan Mallery
What would you do if you learned something that your best friend needed to know? BEACH VIBES is about family, trust, loyalty, and second chances, but it also has some situations that make you think about who your family members really are. Even though it isn’t my usual read, adding a bit of tension, the question of what would you do, and a little bit of mystery made it a good read for me.
Elizabeth
The Big Empty by Robert Crais
I love the Elvis Cole series by Robert Crais and have read every single one of them. Elvis is clever, funny, irreverent and charming. He and Joe Pike never fail to solve the crime.
Vizma
Conversion by Katherine Howe
This would have been a DNF (did not finish), but I was enjoying the historic interludes. I missed that it was a YA book and it was not a mystery as I expected.
Dianna
Noble House by James Clavell
I really like his Asian series books. Hard to put down.
Roxanne
A Walk in the Park by Kevin Fedarko
Detailed description of the adventurous crossing of the Grand Canyon by Fedarko and McBride, a photographer, as they traverse the Canyon, describing the dangers and hardships of such an undertaking. He also familiarizes the reader with the history and fates of the indigenous tribes who were the original Canyon dwellers. There is a documentary that reveals highlights of the adventure on Disney Plus and Prime Video, but the book is much more revealing.
Bobbie
The Cure for Women by Lydia Reeder
How female doctors struggled to succeed over the years.
Leslie
More or Less Maddy by Lisa Genova
This book in which the main character deals with a mental health diagnosis is a must-read. Lisa Genova deals with this sensitive topic with just the right tone.
Anita
The Giver of Stars by Jojo Moyes
This was a wonderful book based on at true story about a group of women who start a traveling library in Kentucky. They deliver books to the residents by horseback. It takes place in 1937 and was initially the idea of Eleanor Roosevelt. It was excellent!
Jeanne
Christmas in the Montana Pines by Jill Haymaker
CHRISTMAS IN THE MONTANA PINES by Jill Haymaker is an entertaining and easy to read book that makes you believe in the magic of Christmas and miracles. The author did a great job creating and crafting the characters, especially the older ones who were relatable and likable. It is a perfect, heartwarming Christmas story to read filled with love, kindness, romance, and the Christmas spirit. I received a copy of this book from the author and these opinions are strictly my own.
Joan
Force of Nature by Jane Harper
I have done a bit of hiking in Australia. Our guide carried rattlesnake medicine. The book brought back memories, but I did not like the characters. The investigators were the most likeable.
Susan
The Queens of Crime by Marie Benedict
I love the premise of the book. It was a little slow getting started.
Marjorie
The Friday Afternoon Club: A Family Memoir by Griffin Dunne
This captivating memoir takes readers on a humorous and honest journey, showcasing the author's vulnerability with wit and charm. Through personal struggles and surprising twists, the narrative remains engaging and relatable. Ultimately, it celebrates the resilience of the human spirit, reminding us that laughter can coexist with vulnerability. A must-read for anyone seeking inspiration from an authentic voice.
Tessa
The Cloud Searchers by Kazu Kibuishi
Episode 3 in the Amulet series of graphic novels for the pre-teen crowd. The adventure continues with Emily, Navin and Leon enlisting a ship’s captain to take them in search of Cielis, the city hidden in the clouds, where they hope to find and join the Council. Whom to trust? And, can Emily channel the amulet’s power without being corrupted by it?
Heather
The Heart's Invisible Furies by John Boyne
I started this book in 2018 just before my father died and thought it was one of the best books I'd ever read! Then while my father was dying, I put it down and couldn't pick it up again until now. I still think it's one of the best I've ever read! Heartwarming and sweet and funny and heartbreaking!
Marge
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon
Life in the state of Maine, 1789, was a harsh, cold, existence for all who struggled to build a home and raise a family. Being a woman meant never-ending work and a struggle to be accepted, respected amid constant belittling from the men in the community. The heroine, Martha Ballard. fought for the rights of the women she cared for in her job as a midwife. Her diary is a testament to the times and struggles women and men faced from those who chose to prey on their community so that they could have power and money. I often had to remind myself that this story took place over 200 years ago. The country was just starting and the legal system was struggling to bring true justice to the people, mostly men. Martha fought for justice for all.
Mary
The Library Book by Susan Orlean
This fascinating true story is a retrospection of the1986 fire that devastated the Los Angeles Central Library, with a good portion of the book devoted to the history of this amazing structure and its staff. Libraries across the country and around the globe also make appearances and allow this book’s readers the opportunity to compare and contrast different versions of library structures, contents and staff. A major theme of this book is whether the fire was arson. A potential suspect’s differing accounts of that day provides many possibilities. Readers will undoubtedly have differing opinions about the events leading to the conflagration. Will first assumptions hold true or change during the narrative?
Francisca
The Wind Knows My Name by Isabel Allende
Allende explores the immigrant experience, and particularly the heart-wrenching separation of children from their parents with a dual timeline: 1938 Austria and 2019 Arizona. My heart broke for both these families. I particularly liked how the two storylines eventually connect, improbable though that may be. It’s an emotionally difficult book to read and made me sad to recognize how little we have learned from history.
Sandra
The Sweet Blue Distance by Sara Donati
An interesting glimpse into a (for me at least) lesser known part of American history. Likeable characters and an interesting storyline.
Donna
Broken Country by Clare Leslie Hall
Hard to put down! Part romance and part mystery.
Kay
The Grey Wolf by Louise Penny
Another thriller from Louise!
Debbie
High Tea and Misdemeanors by Laura Childs
The newest Tea Shop Mystery, HIGH TEA AND MISDEMEANORS, returns to Laura Childs' old formula of writing. The over indulgent emphasis on clothing has been decreased. This tale centers on a wedding gone sour when a greenhouse for the reception collapses and kills a bridesmaid and injures the groom. The characters and the setting lure the reader into the romance of Charleston. Delaine Dish does not play a major part in this story. Thank goodness, as her constant complaining and utter detail to fashion create boredom. So many possible suspects and for various reasons. So many jilted lovers. I love the talk of food and tea, and of course the recipes at the end of the book. I wish Laura Childs would create a book with her recipes.
Debbie
Disciples of White Jesus by Angela Denker
DISCIPLES OF WHITE JESUS by Angela Denker illustrates the problem of the mentality of “White man supremacy”. A very chilling book, especially with what is going on in our country now. Denker covers mass shooters and suicides that involve White men. The case of Dylann S. Roof really puzzles me. How can people stand and watch friends being killed and not stop the shooting? Denker also details the difficult times for the first Black male cadet and the first White female cadet to enter the prestigious halls of the Citadel. Progress does happens, but very slowly, and many places still adhere to the power of the White male. An interesting book that shows that religion embraces the White man excellence.
LINDA
The Last Call Crime Club by K. C. Walker
I really enjoyed this book as Witley, an out of work stunt woman, took a bartender job at a hotel. She was not qualified to make drinks, but she soon learned, and found herself swinging down the hotel building and running after a man that put something in her boss's sister drink. I did love her granny and Kit, a dog who her mom forced on her. I can't wait for her next adventure!
Virginia
Dial A for Aunties by Jesse Q. Sutanto
Needed a break from chilling murder mysteries, and this easy read sprinkled with humor was just right. Just when I thought I knew here the storyline was going, a pivot occurred bringing more fun. Family, humor, and a love story took a back seat to the familial love, loyalty and hard work of the females in the Chan family. Looking forward to the Netflix movie.
Gabriel
The Duke Steals Hearts & Other Body Parts by Elias Cold
The ending brought down what had been an enjoyable book for me. Around 80% through the book, I realized how few pages were left and how much story there seemed to be left to tell, and I wondered how it would all fit. And then it didn't. The ending was abrupt. Many of the plot threads felt hastily resolved and some of the characters fell away. First Wycliff, then Adeline and Nyx, started with strong presences in the narrative in terms of their personalities and goals -- Wycliff and Adeline even being point-of-view characters -- before dwindling away.
Elizabeth
Kills Well with Others by Deanna Raybourn
Loved this book.
Donna
Confessions by Catherine Airey
CONFESSIONS, Catherine Airey’s debut novel, is an exceptional family saga involving three generations of Irish women, spanning the 1970s to 2023. After reading the opening paragraph, I was completely invested in this tale of family, which had me traveling between New York City and rural Ireland. A story of love, loss, and finding oneself. If you enjoy intelligent character-driven novels, please add CONFESSIONS to your TBR list. I am definitely looking forward to reading more from Catherine Airey.
Sheila
My Cousin Rachel by Daphne du Maurier
Although Philip was annoyingly naive, I had to rate this book a five. The tension was high
throughout the book. The settings were gorgeous and eerie. It was superbly Gothic!
Sheila
The Lion Women of Tehran by Marjan Kamali
This was a book of friendship, yet showed jealousy and ambition within it. Set in both Iran and
later the U.S., the changing political background played such an important role in Ellie and Homa's lives. It is historical fiction at its best. My book club especially liked that it was, for the most part, told in chronological order!
Lynda
The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh
I rooted for the damaged protagonist, "the Orphan Girl," to succeed in spite of herself. Flowers were her saving grace. "Flowers are the only thing in my life that are beautiful and true." The ending brought tears to my eyes.
Jane
Dear Santa by Debbie Macomber
The thrill of going home for Christmas has Lindy excited. She is looking forward to being with family and friends. Lindy is on a two week vacation. Her heart is broken and her job stressful. She is determined to enjoy her family. Lindy's mom brings out all the letters Lindy wrote to Santa over years. I enjoyed after Christmas the sledding scene. I always enjoyed those when younger. Lindy has a hard decision facing her. What will she choose? If you need to be uplifted, get this book.
Joan
Force of Nature by Jane Harper
The characters just were not likeable. I read the entire book, but felt I was wasting my time.
Ina
The Stolen Queen by Fiona Davis
The subject of Egyptology coupled with a behind-the-scenes look at the Met Gala make for an addictive backdrop for this novel (you had me at “Met Gala”). An unresolved trauma from the protagonist’s youth resurfaces in her mid-life and makes for a compelling read.
MH
Long Bright River by Liz Moore
An outstanding book with a few twists and turns just when you least expect them. I gave it a 4 instead of 5-star rating because I’m not overly fond of books about drugs. However, these scenes were not explicit. The main character is a female cop whose sister is a drug addict. She is also a single mom who has to balance work with unreliable childcare. Murdered women become the focus of her investigation, leading her deeper into the drug world.
Amy
This is the Story of a Happy Marriage by Ann Patchett
The book is a group of short stories narrated by Ann Patchet. I absolutely loved the audio of this book.
Tracey
Whispering Winds of Appalachia by John Ellington
Growing up and friendships developed in western North Carolina are ripped apart by one character's mistakes and the fallout that it causes.
Tracey
The Nurse's Secret by Amanda Skenandore
This is our April book club selection. Story is about a woman of the streets wrongly accused of a murder. Running from the police, she seeks refuge in the nursing school at Bellvue. The author has a great deal of a medical background and it is used to bring the characters to life.
Beth
Broken Country by Claire Leslie Hall
This novel packed a punch. What one does for love and to relieve guilt may surprise you. This dual timeline novel is easy to read with both likeable and unlikable characters. Passionate first love versus quiet long-term true love.
Michelle
More or Less Maddy by Lisa Genova
Genova does an excellent job portraying the struggles of bipolar disorder, for the person going through it and also the family members. Once I hit the halfway mark, I could not stop listening. I had a pit in my stomach at times, it felt so real. All she had to do was drop a few words in, and the reader would know that Maddy was heading down the path of mania, and that "Oh No" feeling felt so real! Genova has a unique way of humanizing different afflictions. She has a knack for crafting readable stories that are both entertaining, yet also very educating, leaving you a more understanding, knowledgeable person.
Michelle
The House of My Mother: A Daughter’s Quest for Freedom by Shari Franke
Excellent. I didn't know a thing about this family so this was completely eye-opening to me. This was very well written in every way, from the words carefully chosen, to the inner reflections and research needed to weave the story overall and from her perspective. What a brave, smart young woman for having the the wherewithal to persevere through the extraordinary upbringing she had. She narrates the audio herself, superbly done.
Jayme
The Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi by Shannon Chakraborty
This was swashbuckling fun, but I couldn't get past the 21st century lingo for the main character to become completely lost in the story.
Jayme
Impossible Creatures by Katherine Rundell
I think that it should be required that every adult read a children/middle grade fantasy book at least once a year to rediscover your whimsy and sense of adventure. Here is your book for 2025.
Susan
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon
A historical fiction story based on a true story of Martha Ballard who is the midwife in town. I was glued to this book! I am grateful that the winters here are not nearly as bad as they were in the book, so you might need a blanket over you while you read!!! The blizzards and the temperatures were enough to make me feel cold even though it was all in my head!!
Carly
Under the Eye of the Big Bird by Hiromi Kawakami
Set in the future, interesting concept. Strong, concise writing.
Beth
Harlem Rhapsody by Victoria Christopher Murray
I enjoyed reading about this forgotten icon of Black publishing, but I found the writing stilted. The author obviously did a lot of research, but the book read like a series of history facts strung together.
Pam
Broken Country by Clare Leslie Hall
Easy read, unique love triangle that keeps you on your toes to the end.
Sheree
The Life Cycle of the Common Octopus by Emma Knight
This book was a slow start but then it picked up and I really enjoyed it. It reminded me somewhat of the book THE SECRET HISTORY by Donna Tartt, probably because they both involve college life.
Maureen
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon
Enjoyed it.
Michelle
Nesting by Roisin O’Donnell
4.5 stars. I loved this character-driven, emotional read of an abused wife and mother trying to escape her abuser and find her way against all odds.
Denise
The Ministry of Time by Kaliane Bradley
This was a difficult read for me. Quite bizarre. Over my head.
Dorothy
The Tea Girl of Hummingbird Lane by Lisa See
It is so good.
Denise
The Pharisee's Wife by Janette Oke
This is the exact right season for this Gospel presentation to be released! It's a walk through the Ministry of Jesus and the impact of the government on his early followers.
Denise
Hidden Pictures by Jason Rekulak
Very engaging from start to finish. What a story!
Mary Anne
The Wedding People by Alison Espach
Many authors use the device of shared confidences between strangers who never expect to see each other again. This book explores the characters getting to know each other and how they can influence each others' lives. The story is charming, although it begins with a serious subject, and it was very enjoyable.
Sally
Count My Lies by Sophie Stava
Great thriller! I loved the three-part character voice. You never knew which one was the lie or not!
Debra
A Constant Love by Tracie Peterson
For the hearty folks who lived outside of Cheyenne in February of 1887, an exceptionally brutal winter left in its wake profound losses and challenges. For some, it was more than they could bear. Ranching life was all about the land and the animals. It was about hard work and weathering the many storms of life. It was also about being part of a core community. Neighbors became trusted friends, proven allies and chosen family. Faith filled thoughts, dialogues and storylines are deeply woven into the fabric of this book. Faith was being clung to while also being questioned and examined. As you read this historical romance, you will be treated to not just one, but two love stories. Both sweet and both satisfying.
Dianne
The Safekeep by Yael van der Wouden
Story starts slowly but stick with it. Its worth it. The Netherlands in the 1960s is the setting for this story of a lonely woman living alone in her "family" home. Her brothers have both moved, although her home is promised to one of the brothers. He brings his girlfriend and leaves her, blackmailing his sister to let her stay. Our story develops from here. No spoilers.
Gabriel
Corrupted Vessels by Briar Ripley Page
Linden’s death is horrifying. The dissociated, casual way River watches them die and the imagery of their body failing from the poison was disturbing. What bits we see of Ash’s manipulation of River also brought in some subtler horror, but could have been delved into more. Ash’s renaming of River along with controlling how he dresses had an extra layer of insidiousness from their trans identities. There’s the general cultishness of it, with the sense that Ash, who is also trans, must know on some level exactly what they’re doing co-opting and manipulating River’s trans self-discovery and defining of their identity to suit their vision.
Nancy
The Colony Club by Shelley Noble
Historical fiction story about a group of wealthy New York women who, not allowed to use their husbands' private men's clubs, embark on establishing their own. It's a fascinating look at what money and determination can buy. The Colony Club, conceived and built in the early 1900s, still exists, catering to the very upper class of New York society. My only dislike was the inclusion of a fictitious major character. I have seen this done in other books -- try reading LITTLE, about Madame Tussaud's of wax museum fame -- and I wish the author would have found another way to cover the actual physical design and building of the Club. Overall, a great depiction of the people, places and issues of the time. A good book for women's book clubs.
Lori
Three Days in June by Anne Tyler
First book of Anne Tyler's that I've read. Okay, not great.
Shawna
The Girl from Greenwich Street by Lauren Willig
Interesting historical fiction involving a 1800 murder trial with defense lawyers Aaron Burr and Alexander Hamilton. Dialogue from the trial transcripts was used in the novel. Trials then are not what they are today. Would recommend this book.
LINDA
Mission: Her Protection by Anna Hackett
I loved tagging along with Amber and Garrett. Amber thought that she was messed up as she never finished what she started and she blamed her missionary parents. She was a dang good rock climber, and she worked for a company that let her do her thing, but then she had a one night stand with a guy she met at a concert and she slipped away as dawn broke the next morning. Now he had found her and they were paired together to hunt for an ancient toxin that could kill hundreds of thousands of people if it got in the wrong hands. I liked that Garrett kept looking for Amber as she was the woman of his dreams and he could not wait to find her; the problem was they never shared their last names!
Mitra
The Oligarch’s Daughter by Joseph Finder
Very well-written thriller with several twists along the way. The main character falls in love with a beautiful woman who he thinks is a struggling photographer/artist when he realizes she is a Russian Oligarch’s daughter. There are many twists and the the story follows a dual timeline with the current events and the past interspersed, building up the tension. It was one of the best thrillers I had read in a while.
Muriel
Hang the Moon by Jeannette Walls
The setting for this book is the early 1900s with the plot revolving around the dysfunctional Kincaid family. Sally Kincaid is the feisty daughter of Duke, a man who rules the county he lives in. During this time of prohibition, the Kincaids work with those making whiskey to find buyers for them. There are feuds between the Kincaids and others selling their whiskey. Adding to the plot also, secrets are revealed about Duke, Sally’s mother, and others. This is a fast-paced story about a free-spirited young lady as she tries to step into her father’s shoes upon his death and work with family and the community. Relationships are complicated. There are scandals, lawlessness, and conflicts. All this provides an interesting story.
Suzanne
Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver
This is truly one of the best books that I have read in a long time. This is the sad story Demon Copperhead's life in Appalachia. Demon lived a life of insurmountable challenges in a world of drugs and violence as an orphan. Barbara Kingsolver use of words draws the reader into the story. This is the type of book where you live the life of the main character and you don't want the book to end.
Donna
Lillian Boxfish Takes a Walk by Kathleen Rooney
NYC 1984. Lillian decides to walk to her friend’s home to attend a New Year’s Eve party. She is 85 years old. Leaving her residence early she decides to stop in a favorite restaurant for dinner. Along her walk she meets and has conversations with some interesting people. These encounters bring back memories of her past; employment, family, friendships, marriage and the changes through the years of the shops and landscape. This novel was inspired by an actual person though it is a work of fiction.
Donna
Custodians of Wonder: Ancient Customs, Profound Traditions, and the Last People Keeping Them Alive by Eliot Stein
If you are curious about strange and unusual customs and traditions around the world and in remote places, this is the book for you. I was fascinated with the history and secrets held by very few people. The products and beliefs have been passed down through the ages and will someday be lost. I was especially fascinated with the chapter on beekeepers, though I did learn unknown facts from each chapter.
Donna
Humor Me by Cat Shook
Presley is an assistant for a late night show and enjoys her job of finding up and coming comedians to perform on the show. She and her roommate, Izzy, haven’t made any love connections and have settled into being content with the situation. Presley and her mother had a challenging relationship. Her mother is deceased and Presley carries memories and guilt of their past. Susan, a childhood friend of her mother, contacts Presley and wants to help make her life better. Susan introduces Presley to her son and they make a connection. This enjoyable novel is about friendships between family and friends with comedy thrown in.
Donna
The Last Fashion House in Paris by Renee Ryan
Paris, France 1942. The Germans have taken occupation of Paris and has closed many businesses and removed the Jewish men. The fashion house, Maison de Ballard, owned by Mlle. Sabine is known for her high standards in haute couture and is permitted to stay open. She employs a few Jewish seamstresses and keeps them hidden. The Nazi’s are unaware that Mademoiselle is the head of a large underground resistance group that assists getting British pilots and Jews to safety. Seamstresses, Nicolle and Paulette, are spies gathering information and taking the escapees to safe houses outside of Paris. They learn that the SS is planning a roundup of women and children. Life and death decisions about who to trust as no one is who they appear to be.
Donna
The Perfect Home by Daniel Kenitz
Dawn and Wyatt are the performers of a reality TV show called The Perfect Home. Wyatt is a handsome, charismatic and the star of the show who does the physical remodeling of homes. His wife, Dawn, holds her own as the entertainer and decorator. Wyatt isn’t satisfied with just the perfect home and is determined to famous and perfect in other areas. His next step is the perfect family which means children. He obtains an illegal drug from out of the country to make this happen. This drug has negative side effects that threatens everything he has built. Dawn will do anything to protect her children.
Carol
American Dirt by Jeanine Cummins
Learned a lot about Mexico and the cartel - wow!!
Karen
A Good Neighborhood by Therese Anne Fowler
Valerie and Xavier, her musically talented, biracial son, have lived in the upper class neighborhood for several years. Valerie is an ecologist who loves her 80-foot tree in the front yard. Brad and his wealthy, all-White, family move in next door. Julia is his wife, Juniper and Lily are their daughters. Their pool was illegally put into the yard too close to Valerie's tree, causing it to slowly die. Xavier and Juniper form a friendship that grows into a forbidden romance. Situations get out of hand and tragedy ensues.
Lisa
The Heiress by Rachel Hawkins
A twisty, family mystery set in North Carolina. Ruby McTavish is wealthy, widowed and a single mom to an adopted son and quite famous. She was kidnapped as a young child and returned safely home. But not all is as it seems as her adopted son Camden returns home after her passing.
Paula
Punished by Ann-Helen Laestadius
I love to read for enjoyment, to manage stress, and to learn. I have learned a lot reading historical fiction. PUNISHED is a book about the Sami Reindeer herders that live in Sweden. They have their own language and culture. The Swedish state decided that their children must attend a "nomad” school. They are stripped of their culture and must speak Swedish rather then their native language. This is the story of five seven year olds taken from their families in the 1950s. The chapters go back and forth from the 1950s to the middle 80s. We learn how the children had been horribly abused, and how the time spent in the school affected their adult lives. I never knew about the reindeer herders, very interesting people. A well written book.
Laura
Listen for the Lie by Amy Tintera
An fun thriller that will leave you guessing. Can't say I could tell who was lying. I really enjoyed that there was a true crime podcast interwoven into the story. It was a good listen.
LINDA
The Girl Who Wants by Amy Vansant
Oh my word! I've always wanted to read this author, but I won a gift card to purchased one of her books. Now, I am hooked and I have to read more! I cried when Mason's mom left suddenly with her abusive husband to never return, and I laughed at the two kids calling themselves peanut butter and jelly!! Shee and Mason found each other again as teenagers, but an argument had Mason slamming out of the door of her flee bit hotel room. Twenty-five years later, they meet up again after she had stayed hidden for fifteen years to keep her dad safe because someone wanted her dead. She-Ra was one scary lady - you didn't want to be on her bad side.
Norene
Conclave by Robert Harris
I learned a lot.
Bobbie
The Glassmaker by Tracy Chevalier
I really enjoyed listening to this book. Just the audio aspect made Venice and Murano come to life.
You could see the canals and the gondolas. Orsola’s story was fascinating as it passed down through decades, diseases, glassmaking skills, and beautifully Venice. This is a good book.
Laura
The Stolen Queen by Fiona Davis
Great Egyptian mystery! Loved the characters, Charlotte, Annie and Diane, and the Met Gala!
Edie
Memorial Days by Geraldine Brooks
A must-read for everyone!
Linda
Memorial Days by Geraldine Brooks
A lovely memoir honestly depicting grief and also 'out of the depths' hope. Reads as though she is talking with you and together finding reflective joy and sorrow and hope.
Sheri
James by Percival Everett
Good story. Well-written but do not believe it was worthy of the Pulitzer. My opinion only.
Nancy
The Lost Van Gogh by Jonathon Santlofer
I enjoyed the book but his writing was a bit confusing at times. I had seen him in person at a book festival which was enjoyable.
Wanda
The Last Days of Kira Mullan by Nicci French
Slow start to the story but once it got going it was very interesting. Keeps you going for the next chapter. Good story.
Margaret
I Must Betray You by Ruta Sepetys
I was not aware of conditions in Communist Romania and this book educated me.
Lori
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon
Fantastic historical fiction based on a real-life midwife. Kept me turning the pages. Very atmospheric.
Helen
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon
Ariel Lawhon gives the reader a spectacular view into the life of midwife Martha Ballard. Set in the18th century, this tale is also a lesson in history. During a harsh winter Martha documents in her journal details of an alleged rape by two of the town's respected citizens. The body of one of the accused is pulled from the frozen river and is deemed to be an accidental death. However, Martha knows this is not the case. Through her investigation, Martha discovers what really happened and serves justice in her own way. This historical fiction is one of my very favorites!
Teresa
The Cliff’s Edge by Charles Todd
Bess is involved in yet another adventure, this time with the widow of an earl who needs a nurse. A seemingly boring assignment leads to another setting, where she becomes involved in a feud between two families, a situation in which they are fortunate to have Bess on hand.
Donna
Broken Country by Clare Leslie Hall
Well developed storyline. Amazing writing.
AnnaMarie
The Women by Kristin Hannah
I really loved this book. I don't know where my mind was during this time, I was just starting high school. I knew about the Vietnam War, but I didn't realize how these women were treated when they came home. These women put themselves in the war just as the men did, and it's so sad that when they came home there was no help for them, even from the veteran's themselves. They were so brave and strong.
Sean
The Murder of Roger Ackroyd by Agatha Christie
Agatha Christie is a master mystery writer and this is just another example of that. Here, we get a clever mystery with an even more clever outcome. The book is full of interesting characters, red herrings, and the brilliant, yet quirky Hercule Poirot. I really enjoyed the book and even guessed the killer (well, sort of). This book was supposedly the book that started her climb to literally success and I can see why. Overall, another classic.
Lori
Pony Confidential by Christina Lynch
4.5 stars. I really adored this book. What a nice palate cleanser, change of pace. If you love animals and cute mysteries you will love this book. It was tender and funny but also touched on some serious topics. A book worthy of your time!
Gina
Miss Benson's Beetle by Rachel Joyce
Author writes in a tongue-in-cheek way. Plot was a slow slog so I am not giving it more stars.
Theresa
The Tea Planter's Wife by Dinah Jeffries
This tale involving race, class, and a meddling sister-in-law kept my interest during one weekend and also kept me guessing.
Donna
Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy
After reading and loving MIGRATIONS and ONCE THERE WERE WOLVES, I was very excited to pick up WILD DARK SHORE, Charlotte McConaghy’s latest. Even though I couldn’t make a connection with any of the characters, I was completely invested in the mystery from the start. Without any spoilers, I must say that I was a bit disappointed in the turn the story had taken. Now, back to the positive, I did love the atmospheric descriptions of the desolate island and also learning about all of the animals.
Donna
The Husband by Darren O'Sullivan
So this book labeled a "Thriller" had me at first thinking I misread genre. I wasn't sure I would finish it because I really could not get into it. Then, bam, the twist hit you. Missing wife, husband left with a child. It was sad, I felt bad for the husband, always the known suspect but wow you will not guess. I am sure glad I got to later part of book with the twist. Keep reading I guarantee you will not guess and you will enjoy it! Hang in there, this twist is later than most in most thrillers.
Rose
What Have You Done? by Shari Lapena
3.5 rounded to 4 of 5 stars. A beautiful, popular teen is found dead in a field. Diana was loved by everyone, but was she as good as everyone thought? Her boyfriend, Cameron, is a potential suspect. Diana's best friend, Riley, knows that their relationship was going south, but Cameron told the police everything was fine. The gym teacher, the creep at Home Depot, the principal all are hiding something about Diana. Riley and Eric, another friend, try to understand who would want to murder Diana. Some spooky elements were present, but they didn't really ring true for me. I had two suspects in mind, and one was correct. The story had many red herrings and lies, but I think there may have been too many. Solid, but not great.
Rose
Watch Your Back by Terri Parlato
Eve and Nathan have a whirlwind courtship and get married after a brief time together, once Eve becomes pregnant. Eve is a psychiatrist and is worried about a few of her patients as some creepy things are happening at the clinic. To make matters worse, Nathan and Eve's relationship is a bit rocky, and Nathan does something to damage everything. On top of all this, their baby, Rosewyn, goes missing. The police are looking at everyone that Eve and Nathan know, including them. Sinister things are happening, Eve feels they are being watched. I enjoyed the story until the reveal. Then, I thought there were too many coincidences and tie-ins to make it believable. But, when you are dealing with a psychopath, perhaps that is to be expected!
Rose
Back After This by Linda Holmes
I haven't been too impressed with the recent Holmes' novels. This one was so-so for me. Cecily is a podcaster but hasn't had much success after a recent relationship went sour. They stole both her heart and her idea and left her wondering what to do next. She is approached to make a podcast on dating - with a catch. She is the one who has to go on 20 dates and take the advice of a relationship coach and discuss it on her podcast. The podcast is a hit, but the dates aren't. Cecily meets a waiter who she really likes, but he isn't in the coach's plan. So, does Cecily follow her heart or her career? A different sort of romance. Just okay.
Tessa
The Last Council by Kazu Kibuishi
Book # 4 in the Amulet graphic novel series has Emily hoping to join the Guardian Council. She has to endure several challenges to prove herself worthy, and in order to succeed she needs to find a way to trust others. The key is trusting the correct source/entity when she has both allies and enemies where she didn’t expect them.
Jonell
The God of the Woods by Liz Moore
A camper disappears from a summer camp in the same woods her brother disappeared from 14 years earlier. At its core, this book reflects on the resilience of people who must work to make their way in the world in contrast to those who inherit their livelihood and rely on others to solve their problems. This is a page-turner!
Mabel
The Women by Kristin Hannah
I just love Kristin Hannah's writing. When reading this book I felt like I could be there with Frankie and everything she went through. Every book of hers that I have read I got to the last page and was sad it was over. I tell everyone I know they should read it.
Rose
The Quiet Librarian by Allen Eskens
3.5 rounded to 4 of 5 stars. After reading THE LIFE WE BURY by Eskens, I was excited to see this new title from him. It is about a Bosnian woman, Hana, now living in Minnesota, who is told that a friend of hers has been killed. The dead woman had a request, that Hana take care of the woman's young grandson. This triggers Hana's memories of war torn Bosnia when the Serbs killed her entire family. Hana is now a librarian, and secretly seeks revenge on the killers. She finds an unlikely friend in the police officer who investigates the murder of Hana's friend. I wasn't as invested in this book as I was in his earlier work, but the book was well written and interesting. I loved the ending.
Rose
The Sun Sets in Singapore by Kehinde Fadipe
This was a Jenna pick, which I usually enjoy, but this one missed the mark for me. The story is about three women who meet in Singapore, each with different ambitions. Dara is a UK lawyer, who is trying to make partner, but the firm brings in a new male attorney, Lani, and she feels threatened. Amaka is a Nigerian banker, with a shopping obsession that she cannot afford. Lillian is a U.S. former pianist who has followed her spouse to Singapore. The story revolves around these three women, their love lives, or lack thereof, and their work life. I wasn't interested in any of it.
Rose
Together Tea by Marjan Kamali
3.5 rounded to 4 of 5 stars. An Iranian woman tries to find a suitable husband for her daughter. Darya surprises her daughter Mina on her 25th birthday, advising her that she will find a match for her. Mina declines, saying she doesn't want an arranged marriage. They decide to return to Iran to visit their homeland and see family and friends left behind. While there, Mina meets the brother of one of the matches Darya tried to introduce in the U.S. Due to strict laws in Iran, the couple can't touch in public. Mina and Darya return home, but love does find Mina. Lovely story.
Rose
Delicate Escape by Catherine Cowles
3.5 rounded to 4 stars. In the second installment of the Sparrow Falls series, handsome Shep Colson can't stay away from reclusive Thea. Thea has moved to Oregon after her ex, a movie star, posted explicit images of her without her consent all over the web. He constantly verbally abused her and terrified her. She changed her name and stays anonymous in the town. That is, until evil begins to follow her in her new home. If there are real men like Shep Colson, with his gentle words and comforting ways - I want to know! Another solid entry in the series. A good escape from the real world.
Rose
Head Cases by John McMahon
I really enjoyed this first installment of a new series. I loved how FBI agent Gardner Camden is a master puzzle solver, with a fierce devotion to his mother and his 7-year-old daughter, Camila. Now Camden's team is brought into solve a series of murders. There is a serial killer that was presumed dead, but new clues lead the team to believe he is still alive. Their group, PAR, is comprised of a mathematician, a weapons expert, a computer analyst, and their leader, a career agent. Together, they try to determine who is the killer, while putting their lives, and those they love, in danger. There is also the threat of PAR being shut down, and a mole in the FBI. Very exciting and suspenseful first book in the series. Can't wait for Book 2!
Rose
The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson
This has been hailed as the best horror story ever written, so I was curious to read it. While it was eerily spooky, it wasn't that scary to me. A doctor who studies the paranormal invites guests to stay at the Hill House, a spooky gothic mansion. The two who accept his invitation are Eleanor, who steals her sister's car to sneak away after having cared for her invalid mother. After a death in her family, stones shook the house, leading the doc to believe Eleanor summons poltergeist.
Theodora is an artist who is sensitive to paranormal activity. Luke Sanderson, as the heir to the house, comes as well. The mansion becomes cold and strange actions occur (blood and messages on walls) and Eleanor isn't concerned. Not that spooky.
Nancy
The Princess of Las Vegas by Chris Bohjalian
Chris Bohjalian is a favorite author of mine and usually a wonderful storyteller, so it's always disappointing when one of his novels doesn't quite measure up to the high standards he usually sets. This book tried to weave together a lot of intriguing elements, a Princess Diana impersonator, family dynamics, cryptocurrency crime, murders, but perhaps the execution stretched plausibility too far. It’s interesting that the beginning and the end salvaged some enjoyment for me as those are often the trickiest parts to get right!
Nancy
The Measure by Nikki Erlick
I would really give this a 4.5 rating. I happened to pick this book up at a thrift shop because I remembered hearing the title from some FB book groups I follow. What an intriguing premise! It deals with the question of, "How long will I live?" and then "Do I want to know the answer?" The characters are relatable, and their individual stories are weaved seamlessly together. It is allegorical in its depiction of how people can divide themselves in yet one more way.
Rose
Trust Issues by Elizabeth McCullough Keenan and Greg Wands
The ultimate con. When their mother dies and leaves them without anything, siblings Kegan and Hazel suspect that their mother's last husband had something to do with the death. They hire his daughter to help them con him out of their inheritance. As the story unwinds, it is obvious that no one in this story is a good person! The ending had a good twist, and I like the title - an interesting title to describe this novel!
Marcia
Miss Morgan's Book Brigade by Janet Skeslien Charles
Very interesting story about the CARDs, who helped people in France during WWI and also started libraries for all people.
Marcia
Storied Life of A. J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin
Unusual story about an unusual bookstore owner.
Jane
Beside the Dead by Mary Alford
Have fun figuring out who did it. Will take you to last chapter. I had it down to two and was right but it seemed it couldn't be. This book is very hard to put down as are all Mary's books are. Missing women for years, a killer in the mist of everyone, danger, fires, and more. More than one romance in story. I challenge you to read it. You will love it.
Julie
The Personal Librarian by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray
I read this on the heels of THE HOUSE OF EVE, which I loved (I can’t wait to compare/contrast these two books with my fellow book club members). That said, THE PERSONAL LIBRARIAN got off to a slow start and was nearly a DNF (did not finish) for me, until I got about 100 pages in, at which point I became fully invested in Belle’s story. While it reads like a documentary, THE PERSONAL LIBRARIAN is perfect for those who love art history as it offers an inside glimpse of American aristocrat, JP Morgan, while simultaneously tackling sensitive subjects of racism, colorism and class. 3.5 rounded up to 4 stars.
Andi
A Happier Life by Kristy Woodson Harvey
Not my favorite Kristy Woodson Harvey book. While the concept had potential, I thought the storyline was rushed. This created a real lack of connection between the reader and the characters. I did enjoy the story, but I felt like so many feels were just missing.
Sandy
The Paris Apartment by Kelly Bowen
I loved this story and will be checking for more by this author.
Rose
The Lost House by Melissa Larsen
A woman, Agnes, travels to Iceland after her grandfather's death. He was accused of killing his wife and infant daughter 40 years earlier, but he fled the country with his young son, Agnes's father. Everyone in the country believed her grandfather was guilty, but she is having trouble reconciling this with the man she knew. As she investigates the story, along with a podcaster, she is put in danger. I thought the book went on a bit too long, and I was getting bored with the story going round and round. Finally, in the last few chapters, everything ratchets up and gets solved. The cold of Iceland and the landscape was a character in this book.
Melissa
Witchcraft for Wayward Girls by Grady Hendrix
Interesting plot which kept the reader curious to keep turning pages. I felt it kind of got a little weird at the end so not a solid 4-star rating; 3.5 or a little higher.
Barbara
Jane and Dan at the End of the World by Colleen Oakley
"Life imitates art" in this adventure when Jane's previously unheralded novel turns into a real-life challenge for her and husband Dan. Author Oakley's plot has both reveal their own characters by recalling their previous actions/hangups while navigating what they perceive to be a life or death situation. Family survival is front and center here while threats increase. Progress of the plot is often interrupted by their introspection, and Jane is downright annoying. However, the reader is compelled to keep reading to find out how this all turns out. Good vs. Evil, parent/child protection, world economy/conservation are all factors. Eventually, this "made for screen" plot concludes with a Hollywood-ish epilogue. A quick, enjoyable read.
Tawnya
The Summer Guests by Tess Gerritsen
Excellent book in the Martini Club series. Looking forward to the next one!
Margaret
The Light of Luna Park by Addison Armstrong
In 1926, a Bellevue Hospital nurse takes a premature infant, without permission, to be treated in the incubators at Luna Park in Coney Island after her doctors and parents have given up on her surviving. She fully intends to return the child to her family if she survives. Things do no go as she planned. At once heartwarming and heartbreaking.
Diana
Famous Last Words by Gillian McAllister
Having read three previous books by the author, I was really looking forward to this one. She’s known for twists and turns in the plot and she paces it all perfectly again this time. It’s a real page-turner and without giving too much away, I was satisfied with the ending.
Jane
Seeking Evil by Mary Alford
I sure would not want to be Sierra Parker. She is an FBI Agent trained in catching serial killers. Yet she is blindsided and kidnapped. This is not an adventure story. It is a story of survival. It will keep you reading to see if Sierra escapes or survives. It will surprise you at end who is "T". Can Henry, a serial killer, get saved? A read that will keep you pushing on.
Rebecca
The Women by Kristin Hannah
Actually the title seems deceiving as the book is more about one woman. There was much drama as evidenced by romance dead people appearing later in the story. I have read other of Hannah's books and enjoyed them much more.
Sandy
Never Lie by Freida McFadden
I read this one in two days! I thought I had it figured out, but I was wrong. I was very surprised to learn who the real killer was. It's a great mystery, but I can't tell you more without ruining it.
Kris
Bright Young Women by Jessica Knoll
A story about a tragic murder at a sorority house by a Ted Bundy-like character, BRIGHT YOUNG WOMEN is a story close to my heart because I was the target of a stalker when I was an Alpha Delta Pi at a small but well-known college campus in Missouri in 1978. I know firsthand how a college covers up anything that would give them bad publicity and turn the "victim" into the problem. The late '70s was a time of chosen innocence by small communities determined to protect their reputation. I also know how it feels to look back (at 66) and observe my own feelings and actions at age 20 when my world changed overnight. BRIGHT YOUNG WOMEN is a story about experiencing grief and loss but also the resiliency that comes with self-determination.
Terry
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon
It's a long book, but it's a very good one. It's quite emotional at times.
Ruthanne
A Winter in New York by Josie Silver
This book would make a perfect rom-com movie. It tells the story of a young woman chef who comes back to NYC and ironically meets the family of her deceased mom's lover who shared with her a secret gelato recipe.
Rose
When in Rome by Sarah Adams
When pop star Rae (Amelia) Rose needs a break, she thinks of her favorite movie with Audrey Hepburn, "Roman Holiday." Since she can't go to Rome, Italy, she heads to Rome, Kentucky, to escape for a while. Her car breaks down in the yard of Noah Walker. Noah, a local pie shop owner, is disillusioned by love, having been dumped by a woman who wanted him to change for her and live in NYC instead of being near his quiet life and family. Amelia has been hurt by her mother's choices. She and Noah flirt and joke and break down each other's barriers. It's a really cute romance.
