This contest period's winners were Ann N. from Lady Lake, FL; Ashley R. from Surprise, AZ; and Terry K. from Lewes, DE. Each received a copy of KING OF ASHES by S. A. Cosby and THE RIVER IS WAITING by Wally Lamb.
Dorothy
Home of the American Circus by Allison Larkin
A great character-driven book. A beautifully written novel that drew me in from the first page. It is about family, generational trauma and healing. A page-turner with compelling characters. I highly recommend this book.
Rose
The Summer I Turned Pretty by Jenny Han
A coming-of-age story about a young girl, Belly, who along with her mother, Lauren, and older brother, Steven, spend summers with Susannah and her two sons, Jeremiah and Conrad at Cousins Beach. They grew up together, and Belly has always been treated like a little sister. This summer, it all changed. Belly has always loved Conrad, but something is keeping him from showing affection back to her. He is distant and sullen. Later, Belly finds out the truth. It is a summer of firsts, first kiss, first dates, first love. But, there is also tension and sadness. I enjoyed this first book in the trilogy. It has all the feels of a young girl experiencing longing, friendship, romance, and more.
Rose
It's Not Summer Without You by Jenny Han
Belly and Conrad are over, and Belly is heartbroken about it. She wasn't planning to return to Cousins this year, but when Jeremiah calls her panicked that Conrad is missing, she drops everything to help Jeremiah search for him. Belly and Conrad are at odds, and Conrad is trying to deal with his grief over his mom. Jeremiah silently tries to help. When Conrad and Jeremiah's dad decides to sell the beach house, they realize their carefree childhood summer days are ending.
I love a good teen novel, and I am enjoying this series and want to see how it resolves in Book 3.
Richard N B
Under the Big Top by Bruce Feiler
Subtitle: A Season With the Circus. Feiler is a writer who got a rare opportunity to spend a season with the Clyde Beatty-Cole Brothers Circus, as a clown. He detailed his experiences and the life of circus workers in this book. I found this quite interesting. Feiler didn’t sugarcoat the difficulties of life on the road, nor did he pull any punches when describing the personalities and activities of some of the workers. I was disappointed, however, that there were no photos.
Debbie
The Wedding People by Alison Espach
Engaging reading.
Sophie
The Memory Police by Yoko Ogawa
Dystopian fiction isn't usually by go-to, but I've wanted to read this for a while. THE MEMORY POLICE explores the fragile relationship between the physical world and the soul. On a small island, objects mysteriously vanish and the inhabitants adapt and move forward, accepting each loss without question. Those who cannot forget, are hunted down and taken away by the memory police. The eerie descriptions of the Memory Police with their uniforms and expressionless faces evoke chilling echoes of WWII. The novel's understated narrative flows with quiet intensity. It is a thought-provoking read.
Deborah
The Bird Hotel by Joyce Maynard
One of the best books I have read this year. Fabulous writing, what a ride of emotions.
Terry
The Queens of Crime by Marie Benedict
Fun story about mystery writing women getting together to solve a murder.
Michelle
Home of the American Circus by Allison Larkin
Slow burn, character-driven family drama in a small town setting - loved the found family aspect, the flawed characters, and the resilience of Aubrey and Freya, the two main characters.
Elizabeth
The Dark Maestro by Brendan Slocumb
Many twists.
dee
Three Bags Full by Leonie Swann
BAAARillant! A current-day shepherd is murdered, and his sheep decide they must find out who killed him. This is already being filmed with Hugh Jackman. It was so clever, and the author was terrific at keeping the animals be realistic. Wool power!
Jayme
Mrs. Quinn’s Rise to Fame by Olivia Ford
I didn't think a book with the setting of "Britain Bakes" (a takeoff of The British Baking Show) would make me so teary-eyed. I loved this emotional, life-affirming book. Life can begin at 77.
Peri
The Names by Florence Knapp
This book had been highly touted, but it was only okay for me. It was good in the beginning when the mother wanted to name her son, but the father wanted a different name. However, because this son chose another name and used it interchangeably, I found the storyline difficult to follow. Parts of the book were interesting but not enough for a higher rating.
Jayme
The Ragged Edge of Night by Olivia Hawker
One of the best historical fiction books that I have read about WWII. This is "based on true events" and people in the author's family and brought a sense of honesty and love to the book. Franciscan friar Anton Starzmann was a humble man who remarkably and quietly resisted the Nazis. He is a testimony that we all must stand up in the face of tyranny.
Sean
The Nesting Dolls by Alina Adams
Alina Adams tells the story of three generations of Russian women and their struggles. The book felt like 3 very different books as it moved to each generation. The first section was amazing. I could have stopped there and given the book 5 stars. Daria's plight in WWII era Russia was harrowing and Adams paints the picture so well. The second section, starring Natasha was so different. Yes I understand it's a different era, because Natasha was so unlikable. Then the final section set in present-day was almost unreadable. It felt like a Nickelodeon Teen drama but less intelligent. The book felt like 3 very different books, and maybe that was the point but I almost quit 2/3 of the way through. That being said, the first third was excellent.
Michelle
My Brilliant Friend by Elena Ferrante
I’m still not quite sure what to think about this book. I expected to be completely in love with it after all the rave reviews. It definitely was not what I thought it would be like, from the main characters, to the storyline, to even the writing. I’m a little bewildered about what the all the hype is about. Maybe some of it is lost with a different culture and time period. I’m intrigued enough to continue with the next book in the series. I also want to read some other reviews and synopses as maybe it’s deeper than I was able to ascertain.
Wanda
The Perfect Roommate by Minka Kent
This was such a fun and fast book to read. The story had turns you do not expect! Good characters and the writing is excellent, the visual of each character very explicit. Good storyline, keeps you turning the pages which is what I love with a great novel.
Teresa
Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry
This book includes a little bit Patty Hearst, a little bit Paris Hilton, romance and suspense. Two fabulous writers compete to write the memoir of a famous rich girl who has disappeared from public life. I already have this one cast in my mind. It would make an amazing movie! It’s my book club’s selection this month and I can’t wait to discuss it.
Donna
Three Days in June by Anne Tyler
Gail is having a rough day. It’s the day before her daughter, Debbie, is to be married and she learns that the wedding party is having a day of beauty at a spa and she wasn’t invited. Gail is employed as the assistant headmistress at the school where she works and is told that she is being replaced. When she arrives at her home, her ex-husband shows up needing a place to stay until after the wedding. The day before, day of and day after the wedding is mixed with humor, a secret and decisions.
Donna
Penitence by Kristin Koval
This novel has a lot going on and it works. It begins with a sister killing her brother that she loves and how the parents struggle with the aftermath. As the story continues, it includes a lost love, a fatal accident, guilt, infidelity, Huntington and Alzheimer diseases, juvenile justice system and forgiveness.
Pam
The Tears of Things by Richard Rohr
A very unique retelling of Bible prophets and other prophets of our times.
Donna
I Don’t Like Monday’s by Maria Frankland
Monday morning and the beginning of a new week. Cathy is in a crowd of commuter's waiting for the train to take her to work in London. She wakes up in the hospital with strangers around her all concerned about the accident of her falling in front of an oncoming train. She doesn’t recognize a man saying he’s her husband with two young boys that are her sons. It’s determined that she has amnesia blocking out the previous 10 years of her life. Cathy begins to have dreams/flashbacks of the past 10 years. As she begins to heal, she learns that she didn’t fall but was pushed in front of the train. There seems to be several people who had a motive to kill her, including family members.
Donna
I Know What You Did by K. T. Nguyen
Annie’s mother, Me, is a Vietnam war refugee and was very poor. Me’s struggles caused her to be obsessive in controlling Annie’s life. Annie was passionate about being an artist. She went off to school, met Duncan, became pregnant and they got married. Duncan was often gone on long assignments in battle-worn countries. The stress of being alone, caring for her mother and raising a child brought on an obsessive compulsive disorder and paranoia. Her life begins to spiral when people around her are killed and she is the link causing her to be suspect. She has no memory of being a part of what happened. This novel is told in multiple time periods. It’s tough to put down as the reader tries to figure out Annie’s part in this mystery.
Donna
Watch Over My Child by Roberta Kagan
Germany, 1938: The first Kindertransport leaves with young Jewish orphan’s headed to Britain to be taken in by families in order ro protect them from the Nazis. Gilde, Shaul and Elias are among the children. When they arrive in Britain they are separated as they go to different homes. The story of the lives of Gilde and Elias are quite different as they mature making decisions up until the war ends in 1945. I am looking forward to the next book of this series as I am curious of what happens next.
Donna
The Ride of Her LIfe by Elizabeth Letts
1954, Maine: Annie Wilkins is 63 years old and has been given two years to live. She’s lost the family farm due to unpaid taxes and has no family. She refuses to go to a county home and has always wanted to go to California. She heads out to California on an ex-racehorse, Tarzan, and with her dog and limited belongings. Her plan is to stop at farms along the way for overnight lodging and food. She wants to stay off main roads and depends on filling station maps on where to go next. Her travels are slow and sightings of her through word of mouth begin to spread. She becomes a celebrity along the way and soon reporters of newspapers are wanting interviews and photos. Annie became known as “The Last of the Saddle Tramps”.
Kathryn
Whistle by Linwood Barclay
I thoroughly enjoyed this book...from memories of building a train set for my son, to the twists in the plot line. It was definitely a page-turner for me. It's not my usual fare but good nonetheless. Thank you for the preview!
Donna
Desperate Deadly Widows by Kimberly Belle, Layne Fargo, Cate Holohan and Vanessa Little
This novel is a follow-up novel to YOUNG RICH WIDOWS. Two years have passed since their husbands died together in a plane crash. Krystle is struggling to save her law firm. Justine is planning to become a lawyer. Meredith was once a stripper and proudly owns a strip club catering to powerful men. Camille helps women who are betrayed by their husbands by following their men and recording their transgressions. These four women are banded together when one of Camille’s jobs goes wrong at Meredith’s club and the two of them are suspects to a murder. This story is suspenseful, twisted and fun.
Debbie
Raising Hare: A Memoir by Chloe Dalton
Cute memoir of raising a hare that the author grows very attached to. She watches it grow up and interact with her and in the wild. Learned a lot about hares that I didn’t know. Very touching!
Donna
My Documents by Kevin Nguyen
This is a thought-provoking, though unsettling, dystopian novel based on the premise that during the Vietnam war Vietnamese people in America are rounded up and placed in camps. The story revolves around four young people who were raised raised as cousins. Jen, a college freshman and her brother, Duncan, athlete without thoughts of his future, are sent to a camp along with their mother. Ursula, a journalist and Alvin, a Google employee, are excused from the camp placement.
Jen, becomes involved in a group that sends messages and contraband inside the camp. She secretly sends information about camp life to Ursula. Jen, suffering from PTSD, discovers that Ursula is taking full credit for the investigative reporting.
Carol
The Dark Maestro by Brendan Slocumb
Having previously read THE VIOLIN CONSPIRACY by this author, I was highly anticipating the newest book, THE DARK MAESTRO, which is about a African-American young man who takes up the cello at a very early age while living in the ghetto with a drug pin father. It depicts his rise into the world of symphonies and what that does to his life and his family. It was extremely interesting, real to life, sad, creative, and a uniquely written story. I highly enjoyed it.
Luella
Hard Margins by Edward J. Delaney
One of the best, most moving books I've read. The stories are incredibly sad. Environment and atmosphere descriptions painted a picture in my mind. Highly recommend.
Carol
The Road to Tender Hearts by Annie Hartnett
I became a fan of Miss Hartnett with her first book, RABBIT CAKE, and subsequently her next book, UNLIKELY ANIMALS, and so I was highly anticipating reading this new release. It doesn’t disappoint. It is typical Miss Hartnet weird and unique writing of stories that give us heart-rendering tales in a funny, unique and interesting way. There are themes of death and sadness and depression, anxiety health issues, families love romance all in one uniquely told story. I enjoyed it greatly.
Donna
I Thought I Knew by Melissa Trombetta
1995, Upstate NY: Nicole is graduating from college in a few days and looking forward to her future. She is walking to her dorm one evening and suddenly is tackled and knocked out. As she’s coming to, she realizes she being sexually assaulted. She believes she knows who the assailant is but tells no one about the attack. After graduation, Nicole is living in fear and isolating herself from life outside of her workplace. She decides to get her life back and begins by taking Model Mugging classes at the YMCA as the first step. Nicole, as she gains confidence, connects with her sister, Jamie and Jesse, a childhood friend. She and Jesse fall in love and are considering marriage.
Rosemary
Lethal Prey by John Sandford
Lara Grandfelt posts a five-million-dollar reward to anyone who can prove who killed her twin
sister, Doris, twenty years ago. When all the true crime bloggers start stirring up new evidence, law enforcement officials bring in Lucas Davenport and Virgil Flowers to oversee the evidence as it emerges. The best part is that the reader knows almost from the start who the killer is, and watches how everyone interacts to reach the right conclusion.
In his usual manner, Sandford provides an excellent mystery with both seriousness and humor. I couldn't put it down
Pam
The Story She Left Behind by Patti Callahan Henry
Much to appreciate in this lovely novel about family, creativity, forgiveness, the power of language, and finding home.
Donna
The Rusted Tea Box by Essie Perchik Sery
This fictional story is a combination of many true stories about the Jewish children who were part of the Kindertransport during WWII. Elsie is 7 years old and her sister, Rose, is 5 years old when their mother placed them on a Kindertransport train out of Vienna for their safety in 1939. They each carried a small handmade backpack filled with a sandwich, clothes, a tea box and a promise from Elsie that she would take care of Rose. The children arrive in London believing they are on vacation and are immediately separated by families who were adopting them. Elsie and Rose life stories are different in every way. They each carry trauma from their youth, though Rose’s is buried in her self-conscious.
Donna
9-1-1 by D. J. Maughan
September 11, 2001: Scott Lyon owns a title company and has been stealing funds from clients. He has an early morning appointment with an angry client that is questioning a non-payment on his account. Scott’s office is on the 105th floor of the second tower of the Twin Towers. When the towers are hit, Scott sees this as his opportunity to disappear, get the stolen money and let people believe he was killed at the site. Scott discovers that the 3 million dollars he had stolen has disappeared. The police assume Scott’s wife knows where the money is located. There’s no proof found in the tower ruins that Scott was dead. Peter, a retired NYPD detective is asked to help determine if Scott is alive and where the money is located. Very twisted.
Pam
Isola by Allegra Goodman
Set in the 16th century, ISOLA was an incredible book of love, faith, courage and survival based on a real historical figure. I was completely invested in this emotional story and the richly drawn characters. And what an ending!! Incredible narration by Fiona Hardingham.
Donna
The Original Daughter by Jermimah Wei
Singapore, 1996: Genevieve is 8 years old living with her parents and grandmother in her grandmother's small apartment. She had believed she was an only child when Arin, 6 years old, is dropped off to live with them, and Genevieve is informed that this is her half-sister. Genevieve tries to connect with Arin but it’s a struggle. Eventually, their friendship becomes so strong that they make a blood bond of "till death do us part." They are inseparable until their late teens when an event occurs that brings a new understanding of their relationship. This novel involves a dysfunctional family, friendship, emotional abuse, betrayal and reconciliation.
Donna
The Manor of Dreams by Christina Li
The family of Vivian Lei, an Oscar winning actress, are gathered in her mansion for the reading of her will. They were surprised that the family of a former employee was in attendance. The conflict and drama begin when the mansion is not willed to Vivian’s family and they are ordered to leave the premises in a week. Hostility, secrets exposed, visions and a murder build into a grand climax that is out of their control.
Elise
Water Finds a Way by Meghan Perry
This novel seems to be a lost soul, like many of the characters in it. The characters were full of humanity and depth, and the setting in Maine was wonderfully written, evoking memories of time spent there. Various themes in the novel are still bouncing around my head - self-doubt, rehabilitation, the healing powers of nature and community. This was a surprise gem!
dorothy
The Storied Life of A. J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin
I couldn't put this book down. It was excellent. It's about a bookseller who had both happy and sad in his life. He was grumpy, but filled with goodness.
Gerry
A Flicker in the Dark by Stacy Willingham
2-1/2 stars for a thriller that started strong but went on too long before fizzling out with an unsatisfying ending. The resolution of the mystery was telegraphed pretty clearly early on, and although the author repeatedly tried to convince me my guess was wrong, it proved right in the end. None of the characters was exactly who he or she seemed to be, which made it difficult to like or connect with any of them. Chloe made so many poor decisions, and never seemed to use the knowledge and skills she should have developed as a Ph.D. psychologist. All of the secrets and hidden motivations were meant to add to the mystery, I suppose, but it just became tiresome by the end of the book.
Gerry
Abscond by Abraham Verghese
Short stories are definitely NOT a genre I favor, but this one, just like the rest of Verghese's writing, was excellent, and for the first time, I didn't feel shortchanged by its brevity. It's the story of a young Indian-American boy just entering his teen years, working hard to hone his skills in tennis, with hopes of playing professionally (note that Verghese is an avid tennis player as well as a physician), while conflicted about his mother's insistence that he must follow in his surgeon father's footsteps. Character development is excellent, even in this short selection, and the plot moves forward smoothly to a satisfying resolution.
Gerry
Daughters of the Bamboo Grove: From China to America, a True Story of Abduction, Adoption, and Separated Twins by Barbara Demick
This book is a powerful indictment of the corruption that fueled the business of international adoption in the late 20th century, and gave me a lot to think about. Having friends who adopted children from China, South Korea, Ethiopia and Guatemala, all in the belief that in addition to creating a family for themselves that was otherwise impossible, they were also saving an abandoned or orphaned child from a life of poverty or institutionalization, I can’t help but wonder now if they too were misled by individuals or agencies that facilitated the adoptions, and were unwitting participants in this system of child trafficking that too often literally stole children from loving parents under the guise of enforcing the law.
Gerry
The Compound by Aisling Rawle
THE COMPOUND is a novel that takes place on the set of a reality TV show, the sort of show I have never watched and used to make fun of when my daughter watched them. They’re the opposite of reality, to my mind. Despite that, there was something unexpectedly compelling about this novel, so much so that I found myself returning to it in preference to another book I’d been reading. It proved to be an interesting and engaging look at the reactions and interactions of nineteen young adults to a rather bizarre and challenging experience. The ending, however, felt unsatisfying, as if the author had run out of ideas and just stopped. Viewers of reality TV will likely love this book more than I.
Gerry
Isola by Allegra Goodman
ISOLA is an amazing novel that brings to life a woman forced to fend for herself at a time when a woman had no power, no standing, no permission to do anything except with the approval of the man who virtually owned her, whether that was her father, older brother, guardian, or husband. Marguerite's parents had died, leaving her under the guardianship of her cousin Roberval, who used her inheritance to fund his own entertainment and adventures. Assigned by the King to develop a settlement on the lands initially explored by Jacques Cartier, Roberval sold off the last of Marguerite's property, and took her with him on the eight week sea voyage to Canada, but abandoned her on an uninhabited island. Based on true events in early 1500s.
Gerry
FDR Drive by James Comey
In this third book in his Nora Carleton series, Comey focuses on an investigation into a far-right podcaster, Sam Buchanan, who whips up fear and fury in his listeners about the "decline" of the USA that he attributes to all the usual "woke" villains. But periodically he directs his attacks at a specific individual, calling out the individual as a danger to the country who "must go". And shortly after his verbal attacks, that individual suffers a brutal, and sometimes fatal, attack. Nora Carleton and Benny Dugan team up with FBI investigators to make the case that Buchanan should be held legally responsible for the injuries and deaths caused by his followers. A gripping novel and the best in the series so far!
Gerry
Rabbit Moon by Jennifer Haigh
Aaron and Claire had been divorced for four years when she receives a phone call: their daughter Lindsey, who has been living in Shanghai, has been in an accident, and is in a coma. Their younger daughter, Grace, is away at camp, so the two travel to China intending to bring Lindsey home to America for treatment. As the story progresses, the reader learns more about the family's history: the decision to adopt a baby girl from China, the trip to meet her that bonded Lindsey and Grace closely, a crisis that tore the family apart when Lindsey was in high school, the fractured relationship between Aaron and Claire. This is definitely a character-driven novel, and a significant character is the city of Shanghai itself. It's a compelling read!
Gerry
Westport by James Comey
3-1/2 stars for a quick but enjoyable read centered in the world of high finance and corporate espionage. The body of a hedge fund executive is found lying in a canoe abandoned on Seymour Rock, right where the Saugatuck River hits the Long Island Sound. Nora Carleton, a former US Attorney whom the dead woman recruited to join the firm as lead counsel, appears to be the main suspect. To clear her own name, Nora seeks the assistance of former colleagues to investigate what seems likely to be an inside job. I did guess the identity of the perpetrator pretty early in the book, but it still held my interest to the end, when my hunch was proved correct.
Rosa
Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin
What a marvel. I heard about this book when it was first launched and the plot line did not interest me. I have never gamed and I predict I never will. But this story is about so much more than gaming and creating games. I cared about Sam and Sadie and Marx and all the supporting characters. I think even my book club, comprised of Baby Boomers, will enjoy it and will find plenty to talk about.
MH
Pro Bono by Thomas Perry
A con man takes most of a woman’s money, but while making a fast escape, is run off the road and into a tree. A busload of criminals come upon the accident; the bus driver, also a convict, takes a batch of papers from the trunk with the identity of the conman. Years later, he and a buddy approach a lawyer whose client is now being conned. The story evolves from there. There are some unexpected attacks on the lawyer and the woman; the story is suspenseful.
Denise
The Oligarch's Daughter by Joseph Finder
A dual timeline thriller where the main character Paul, six years ago, was a successful hedge fund manager that met a beautiful woman photographer (Tatyana). They marry and trouble starts when Paul is asked to join Tatyana’s father’s firm where he sees suspicious, unethical business practices and is torn on what to do about his involvement in the company. Eventually the FBI seeks him out and asks him to be an informant which leads to him being involved in dangerous situations. He realizes this could be life or death for him if caught. Thus results his research on how to disappear. On the run, now as Grant, he lives a quiet life as a boat builder, dealing only in cash. The bad guys do catch up and the chase it on. The end was satisfying.
Kathleen
The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife by Anna Johnston
Due to a mistaken identity, sad, despondent, lonely Fred becomes Bernard and finds himself in a nursing home where the staff assumes he has dementia and treat him accordingly. This book is at times hilarious, at times very poignant, but mostly REAL. As a person living in a senior living residence, and having numerous friends in assisted living and nursing homes, I can relate. I found it especially interesting how Johnston portrays dementia and gives a true understanding of this disease. I thoroughly enjoyed this book!
Lori
The Fertile Earth by Ruthvika Rao
Such a tragic, sorrowful story. Was a bit hard to follow at times.
LisaMarie
The Woman Who Lied by Claire Douglas
It’s suspenseful, lots of twist and turns, so good. About an author that has chilling events from her novels start to unfold in real life, threatening her family, and her. It really does have unexpected revelations and will keep you guessing till the end.
Edie
Everyone Here Is Lying by Shari Lapena
Could not put book down!! Author has a wonderful way of keeping your interest!
Kimberley
Madam Secretary by Stephanie Dray
This is an outstanding historical novel capturing the emerging days of FDR and the amazing Frances Perkins. She was strong, determined, a patriot, and worthy of all honors bestowed upon her. The author reminds us the suffrage movement, the beginnings of Social Security and the horrors of the Great Depression. It is a great lesson.
Tessa
Bury Your Dead by Louise Penny
Book # 6 in the Inspector Armand Gamache series of mysteries. This episode actually involves multiple mysteries, both current time frame and in the past. What I like about the series is the way Penny builds her characters, and their relationships to one another, over the course of the series. We get to know Gamache, his strengths and weaknesses, his joys and disappointments, over the various books, each episode giving the reader more insight into the man’s complex character.
MARILYN
This Is the Way It Always Is by Laurie Frankel
This book deals with the way one family deals with the issues of transgender. My heart ached for everyone as the entire family suffers in one way or another. At one point they learned some of their efforts were not as helpful as they had hoped, still they were able to move ahead. It is well written and certainly a book for our time.
Carol
The Last American Road Trip by Sarah Kendzior
I loved the family road trip adventures as it reminded me of my own family’s adventures. It was intriguing how the changes in political, environmental, economic, social, pandemic, and other aspects of our country were tied into the journey. Timely, somewhat pessimistic, there is still some optimism that our country will still be there in the future.
Joan
West With Giraffes by Lynda Rutledge
Liked it so very much.
Katherine
The Book Club for Troublesome Women by Marie Bostwick
I loved this book! It's set in the 1960s so it's full of historical events and famous names. But it also shows how reading a book can change your life. It made my heart so full and invested in these women!
Donna
A Dead Draw by Robert Dugoni
Keera Duggan is on her own to defend a childhood "friend" in a murder trial. Her father is away at rehab and she doesn't have him to rely on in this case. I absolutely love Dugoni and will read anything he writes. His characters are always so interesting.
Kelly
Boat Baby by Vicky Nguyen
This was an excellent memoir of a family’s escape from Vietnam and the life they built in the U.S. I had worked with many Vietnamese refugees in school as a teacher and could really relate to Vicky’s story and true success. It was an interesting and inspiring read, especially in these days of radical treatment of immigrants in our country.
Darlene
The Last Chairlift by John Irving
Very long but interesting story.
Jean
The Street by Ann Petry
Written in and set in the 1940s, this is the story of how a poor, Black, attractive single mom struggles to make a better life for herself and her son. It illuminates the false ideas people have about her simply because she is female and Black and how she is taken advantage of because of those misconceptions. Regrettably, not enough has changed in the many intervening years. If you've ever wondered what it is like to be Black, read THE STREET.
Joanne
Good Dirt by Charmaine Wilkerson
Everyone has a secret that they won’t share.
Karen
Ask Not: The Kennedys and the Women They Destroyed by Maureen Callahan
The narrator's style is engaging. I rapidly flipped from page to page. The downside was that the men were fairly one-dimensional - predators, and the women were passive. I enjoyed reading about new events, yet there was also a discrepancy in some details I already knew about. I came away disliking the Kennedy family for their power, entitlement, and misogyny.
Lynda
The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store by James McBride
This historical fiction novel that takes place in Pottstown, PA in the 1930s takes an unflinching look at humanity, both good and evil. The story is compassionately told with humor. It's a timely (and hopeful) message that people can get along in a diverse community. Uplifting!
Susan
Three Days in June by Anne Tyler
Gail loses her job and her daughter gets married - what is she to do? It follows a weekend of her life where she faces a ex-husband who shows up on her doorstop, the father of the bride, and she discovers some truths about herself. It is a easy read. I read it in two days.
Jeanne
Unexpected Hope by Pam Green
UNEXPECTED HOPE by Pam Green is Book 1 in the Sully Parkway Comfort Dogs series. Let me just say you will not regret reading this book. It captured my heart and my soul. It was heartbreaking and heartwarming. The storyline was well written and the characters were perfectly created and crafted in a way that immediately drew you into the story. A man who is really down and has pretty much given up that things will turn around for him comes in contact with a ministry with a team of broken people and a golden retriever puppy. This is an unputdownable down book from beginning to end that reinforces one must never give up. I think it opens up one’s heart and brings peace, comfort and joy. I received a copy of this book from the author.
Jenifer
Vera, or Faith by Gary Shteyngart
(Advanced Reader Copy received through a publisher's giveaway.) Told from the viewpoint of a very wise, anxious, and perceptive (albeit often misguided) 10-year-old, this little novel tore my heart apart. In an America that isn't that far flung from today's version of the country, her search for truth and her mom was a wonderful roller coaster of an emotional read. Gary Shteyngart hit the ball out of the park (I use this sports-related term even though Vera's dad hated this type of metaphor), and has a new fan in me. I highly recommend this book for new and old Shteyngart readers.
Rocky
The President Is Missing by James Patterson and Bill Clinton
Wow! After reading at least 40 of JP's books, this is a new concept for me: President Clinton is his co-author! The first in a series of currently three books, this one somehow escaped my radar but boy am I glad I found it! I stayed up all night reading one of the best thrillers I've ever read! The detailed work and life of the President involved in...(I don't spoil), let me just say, something nationally and internationally very, very major is enhanced by the personal insight that Clinton has brought to this book. Fascinated by the working of the White House, I found it to be well worth the time to read their book. Next one is already on my e-reader!
Pam
Bearer of Bad News by Elisabeth Dini
On one hand, this is a lighthearted, humorous novel about a hairdresser jilted by her fiance. Layered with that storyline, though, is a revelation of family secrets, a story of two girls raised like sisters in Hitler's Germany. One of them is Jewish. When the two girls disappeared during Hitler's roundup of Jews, a priceless emerald necklace disappeared with them. Our young hairdresser has been hired to help solve the mystery of the missing necklace, and this makes all the difference! The tone and significance of her life and loves is intrinsically tied to this mystery, giving the novel much greater depth and meaning. Great audio narration by Carlotta Brentan.
Pam
Sirens by Emilia Hart
There is much to enjoy in this beautifully-told, dual timeline novel about two sets of sisters. In contemporary times we follow Lucy and Jess who are separated by almost 20 years, but suffer from the same rare skin condition. In 1800 we follow Irish twins Mary and Eliza (who is blind). After an act of self defense, they are sent on a brutal convict ship to Australia. Both sets of sisters are struggling for survival in different ways and have an almost psychic connection to each other. Themes of patriarchy, self acceptance, the essence of family and belonging are beautifully woven into the plot and characters. I was not as convinced, though, of the effectiveness of the magical realism.
Maureen
Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet by Jamie Ford
Beautifully-written story about love and loss.
Chris
We'll Prescribe You a Cat by Syou Ishida
Insightful and charming.
aida
Carrie Soto is Back by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Fun read.
Rose
Unlikely Animals by Annie Hartnett
This book was a joy to read! Narrated by ghosts, they tell the story of Emma, who is returning home to NH because her dad, Clive, is dying. She is angry with him for cheating on her mother. Her brother, Augie, is a recovering drug addict. The town is known for Corbin Park, where a naturalist, Ernest Harold Baynes, lived and raised many animals. Clive is hallucinating, and sees Harold in many situations. The opioid crisis is addressed in the book in many ways. When Emma comes home, she has to admit her many failures to her family. She also discovers her best friend from high school is missing, and her father has been posting flyers all over town. The story is funny, sad, and heartwarming. I loved the voices of the Maple Street ghosts.
Francisca
The Legend of the Bluebonnet by Taomi dePaola
This is a lovely story that relates some of the Native American legends about the wildflower that is the Texas state flower – the bluebonnet. It’s a wonderful lesson about family, community, sacrifice and selflessness. Beautiful illustrations, too.
Rose
A Little Too Close by Rebecca Yarros
3.5 rounded to 4 of 5 stars. Book 2 in the Madigan Mountain series. (The other two books in the trilogy are written by different authors.) Weston Madigan is angry. After his mother died, his father drank heavily and abandoned his sons. Weston had to raise Crew, the youngest, when the eldest, Reed, went to college. Once Crew graduated, Weston joined the army and flew helicopters. Now, Reed needs him to help at the resort, flying heliski operations to keep the resort afloat. Weston is pushed to rooming with Callie and her daughter, Sutton, as there is no other housing available. Callie and Weston slowly realize their attraction for each other, but Weston knows that giving your heart to someone is dangerous because they always leave.
Luella
Masked Prey by John Sandford
Another great Sandford novel in the Lucas Davenport series. Lots of excitement and action. Never fails.
Daphne
Fever Beach by Carl Hiaasen
I have read every one of Mr. Hiaasen’s books. Each offers insight into topics with humor the often has you laughing out loud. His newest is no exception.
Donna
The Red House by Mary Morris
THE RED HOUSE by Mary Morris is a beautifully-written combination of historical fiction, family mystery and coming-of-age tale. With dual timelines, WWII and present day, this was such an emotional, haunting read. It was captivating from the very start. It seems as though this is a gem which has flown under the radar, and I cannot recommend it highly enough.
Wanda
Heartwood by Amity Gaige
The book explores relationships between mothers and daughters and is three stories interconnected by the disappearance of a hiker on the Appalachian Trail in Maine. Valerie is the lost hiker, a nurse during the horrors of the pandemic, who needs to find herself and the meaning of her life. Lt. Bev is very comfortable in the outdoors. She joined the Maine Warden Service and is the commander of the searches for lost hikers. Lena prefers foraging in the wilderness or reading and studying a variety of subjects rather than communicating with others. She is confined to a wheelchair in her seniors home. It is a multi-layered survival story where we discover the beauty and treachery of the AT. It is written with suspense and emotion throughout.
Sandy
The Midnight Feast by Lucy Foley
A very strange story, but entertaining. It's opening night of The Manor, the new jewel of the Dorset coastline. The drama is all our front: soaring ocean views, emerald lawns stretching to the cliff edge, the Owen Darcre-designed infinity pool. But everyone is not who they seem to be. Very weird story!
Pam
Junie by Erin Crosby Eckstine
4.5 rounded up. JUNIE is the beautifully-written, textured story of a 16-year-old girl whose family is enslaved on a plantation at the cusp of the civil war. She has learned to read, loves poetry, and longs to find a life where she has agency over her future and needn't fear that loved ones will be sold, killed or abused by the callous plantation owner. Emotional, powerful, and filled with complex characters based on the life and stories of the author's family. Highly recommended for historical fiction fans. Nuanced audiobook narration by Angel Pean.
Pam
Six Days in Bombay by Alka Joshi
Toward the end of British colonialism in India, Sona is born to an Hindi mother and a British father, who ultimately leaves them to return to his English family, leaving them to fend for themselves. Alka Joshi, in this new stand-alone novel of India, gives us rich, authentic, and interesting characters, a vibrant setting, and insight into the politics and culture of the time as Sona struggles with her biracial identity and finding her place in the world. Vibrantly and empathetically narrated by Sneha Methan.
Pam
The Fifth Witness by Michael Connelly
The first half was a slow start, but then the courtroom drama picked up and the twists were more satisfying.
Rose
An Unfinished Murder by Jude Deveraux
3.5 rounded up to 4 of 5 stars. I enjoy the Medlar Mystery series by Deveraux, and following the adventures of Sara, Kate, and Jack. When the Lachlan mansion comes up for sale, they inspect the property and find a skeleton. This leads them to investigate the murder. Kate's memories of being at the property with her father when she was four years old come back to her. Together, the three, along with Kate's father, plan a party to reunite all those who had been at the party when the murder occurred. Many secrets are revealed as to the past. Lots of characters in this one, and at times they were hard to keep straight. But, I like the banter between the characters.
Rose
My Heart Will Find You by Jude Deveraux
The first novel I read by Jude Deveraux was a time travel romance, and this one is as well. In the midst of the pandemic, Etta meets Henry and agrees to move in and be his caretaker. When Etta dreams, she travels back in time and meets Max and falls in love. However, when she returns to present time, she is desolate over the loss of her love. How can she find love again after realizing what happened to Max in the 1800s. Solid and sweet romance.
Dianne
The Midnight Library by Matthew Haig
What if? Everyone at times questions a decision or action taken. What if a different decision was made? Mrs. Elm is the librarian who helps a depressed Nora review her life decisions exploring alternative choices. Ultimately Nora decides to live. But which life?
Abby
The Sirens by Emilia Hart
This dual timeline novel combines historical fiction and fantasy. In the 1800s, two sisters are crossing from Ireland to Australia on a convict ship. In the current story, two sisters, with unusual allergies to water and sleepwalking tendencies, are involved in a mystery that is unraveling. A very unique story that was hard to put down. Recommend.
Rose
Don't Believe It by Charlie Donlea
Grace Sebold has been sentenced to prison for the murder of her boyfriend, Julian Crist, while on vacation in St. Lucia to celebrate the wedding of their friends, Charlotte and Daniel. Her brother, Marshall, their parents, and her best friend, Ellie Reiser were also there. Now, 10 years later, Grace writes to Sidney Ryan, a podcaster, asking her to tell her story and help get attention on her case, proclaiming her innocence. Sidney takes the offer, and begins producing a podcast series, bringing new evidence to light. As the case proceeds, a former cop, Gus Morelli, reaches out to Sidney with more information. This book is layered with many hints, but I was completely surprised by the final reveal. Very good mystery!
Pam
My Friends by Fredrik Backman
"The world is full of miracles, but none greater than how far a young person can be carried by someone else's belief in them." The uber-talented Marin Ireland brought to life this beautiful, emotional, and inspiring novel of friendship, trauma, found family, and art. Favorite book of the year so far!
Pam
The Wedding People by Alison Espach
Phoebe has decided she just can't go on after a failed marriage and infertility. So she is taking her final trip and with the intention of "ending her pain" the day she checks into the Cornwall Inn, only to find that an extravagant "wedding week" is in progress and she is the only guest who is not a member of the party. For such a dark beginning, Alison Espach has written one of the most life-affirming novels I've ever read. Alternately funny, insightful, tender and wise, THE WEDDING PEOPLE is a transformative journey of hope for a life well lived. Emotionally expressive and beautifully nuanced audio narration by Helen Laser.
Rose
Mrs. Quinn's Rise to Fame by Olivia Ford
Jenny Quinn has been married to her husband, Bernard, for nearly 60 years. After reflecting on her collection of recipes, she decides to enter the Britain Bakes contest on a whim, and doesn't tell Bernard. But, when she is selected to participate, she comes clean. Yet, she is still hiding a huge secret, and her newfound fame may force her to tell Bernard the big secret. Jenny wonders if their love can withstand her deception. Jenny's popularity on the show is a testament to her kindness, and Bernard's love for Jenny never falters. A very sweet story with a hopeful ending.
Jill
Take My Hand by Dolen Perkins-Valdez
Wow! What a story! Two young Black girls, ages 11 and 13, are sterilized against their will in Montgomery Alabama in 1973. Civil Townsend, a nurse at a family planning clinic, is caught up in the maelstrom of a court case that follows. It is an important topic to read about even as it makes one uncomfortable. Great story.
Denise
How to Age Disgracefully by Clare Pooley
A fun and entertaining book about aging, and the assumptions people make of the older generation. You meet numerous characters trying to connect at a community center that is being threatened with closure. You learn their back stories and secrets as their histories unfold. There are additional, colorful characters with their own private issues, each trying to make the most of their situations. Eventually, with common goals and new found interests, the group comes together in trying to save the center at the same time coming to each other’s aid. Such an enjoyable puzzle, put together in a very imaginative and clever way. A fast read, perfect for people looking for a break from reading heavy topics.
Lynn
Broken Country by Clare Leslie Hall
The best-crafted book I've read this year!
Rose
The Very Long, Very Strange Life of Isaac Dahl by Bart Yates
While well written, this story wasn't for me. It follows the life of Isaac Dahl, who recounts several important days of his long life. It is a bit of history, following the Dust Bowl, WWII, the AIDS epidemic, to name a few. He tells of life as a gay man and his many friendships, as well as the bond with his twin sister, Agnes.
Nancy
Ask Again, Yes by Mary Beth Keane
I read this for as a book club selection. It proved to be a very good choice because it presented many areas for discussion. It's story of two families whose fates are intertwined by one tragic event. I found many, many emotional aspects to this story: it's sad and heavy at certain points, but the ending wound up being hopeful. The characters of both families suffer tremendously in various ways over the years, and some of the reasons they did were based on their choices or the choices of another family member. I would say the most overriding lesson to be taken from this story is the power of forgiveness for both the person who did wrong and the one who was wronged.
Donna
Someone Knows by Vi Keeland
It’s been quite awhile since I’ve binged a thriller in one day. However, that was the case with SOMEONE KNOWS by Vi Keeland. Ms.Keeland usually writes romance, so this happens to be a thriller with some added spice. And what a thriller it is. With a seemingly unlikable protagonist, lots of red herrings, and plenty of twists and turns, I was invested from the very first page on. My only minor complaint is that I still had some unanswered questions at the end and would have liked to have seen my issues resolved. If you enjoy a suspenseful, addictive thriller, pick up a copy of SOMEONE KNOWS.
Brumby
The Book Club for Troublesome Women by Marie Bostwick
I absolutely adored this book. Set in the 1960s, this group of four women will win you over in no time flat. They come together through a newly formed book club. Their first book is THE FEMININE MYSTIQUE and its message changes everything. Each women, in her own way, finds their power and their voice. It’s a delightful historical fiction book about the strength and power of women and friendship.
Linda
The World Played Chess by Robert Dugoni
Touching story. It brought back memories of Vietnam and the friends I lost there.
Judy
Angel of Vengence by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child
Not as good as other Agent Pendergast books, but I enjoyed.
Pamela
Atmospere by Taylor Jenkins Reid
I found the novel very interesting about the space program and how difficult it was for women during that time. However, I felt too much time was spent on the romance between two women.
Nancy
Small Things Like These by Claire Keegan
A beautifully-written novel about an ugly time in the Catholic Church, specifically in a small town in Ireland and a simple man’s generous response to the injustice.
Marilyn
Class Clown by David Barry
Laughed out loud frequently while reading this Pulitzer Prize winner’s memoir. He is always funny and gets inspiration from just living in Florida and from Costco.
Margaret
The Good Earth by Pearl S. Buck
Good read.
Teresa
One Perfect Couple by Ruth Ware
I loved this book because with all of the reality shows that are on TV, this kind of scary incident could actually happen, and that's what makes a great plot!
Susan
My Friends by Fredrik Backman
I enjoyed every word. Excellent!
Joan
West With Giraffes by Lynda Ratledge
This book is awesome. I did not want to put it down once I started reading. I am telling many friends to read it.
Karen
The Boyfriend by Freida McFadden
This book was filled with multiple twists and turns. Just when you think you have it all figured out you turn the page and realize you were wrong, so very wrong. Fast read and held your attention. Great book for book clubs!
barbara
Need to Know by Fern Michaels
I usually love anything Fern writes - always entertaining. NEED TO KNOW was okay - just wasn't that entertaining.
Dottie
Dust Child by Nguyen Phan Que Mai
Unknown numbers of children were born or conceived during the Vietnam war, fathered by American soldiers. This book is a fictional account of a soldier who knew he fathered a child and after years went back to Vietnam to try to find the woman who he had impregnated and their child. Additionally, a story about a man who was born in Vietnam, fathered by a soldier and once born given to an orphanage by his mother who was searching for his parents. These stories recount the experiences of the both the soldier and the orphaned individual, and in part the mothers. Both joyous and heartbreaking.
Vicki
Tell Me Everything by Elizabeth Strout
Just like a small town. Made me feel like I was back where I grew up.
Alice
Last Bus to Wisdom by Ivan Doig
Interesting and enjoyable. Very descriptive and I felt as if I was actually there.
Mary
The Case of the Christie Conspiracy by Kelly Oliver
A historical mystery featuring Agatha Christie who is not just a mystery writer but a suspect in the death of a fellow member of the Detection Club. The Club is a group of mystery writers who get together to share ideas and trade secrets. Also among the members is Dorothy Sayers, who hires
Eliza Baker as her assistant, to Dorothy’s role as Club secretary. Eliza sets out to solve the murder, which seems to point to all members as the murderer.
Natalie
The Love Songs of W.E.B. du Bois by Honoree Fanonne Jeffers
At first I was put off by a book that is almost 800 pages long. I delayed starting this book but was always very interested. At last I began and it did not disappoint. A complex family history told over several hundred years. From the early days of slavery until the present, it gives a complex view of how families suffer, survive, crumble and rise up. Worth every minute and hour I gave to this work. It gave back and I am richer for it.
Rose
P.S. I Still Love You by Jenny Han
Lara Jean and Peter are truly dating, but she is unsure of his true feelings for her. When a video is posted with them kissing, many rumors begin circulating about them. Peter's ex-girlfriend, Genevieve, continues to do things to pull Peter's attention to her. Lara Jean begins working at a nursing home, and befriends Stormy. This job brings an old crush, John Ambrose McClaren, back into her life. Things come to a head after Peter, John, Gen, and Lara Jean participate in a game.
Sweet ending to this story of young love.
Jeanne
The Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren
THE UNHONEYMOONERS by Christina Lauren is a perfect blend of wit, humor and good-natured fun when enemies-to-lovers Olive and Ethan go on a tropical honeymoon intended for the bride and groom who, along with 200 wedding attendees, came down with a bad case of food poisoning. The storyline was light-hearted and entertaining.
Joanne
Broken Country by Clare Leslie Hall
I loved this book, especially the writing, characters so well done. Would recommend it for discussion groups since there is so much going on, and I am sure everyone would come away with different viewpoints. A good book in my view!
Rose
Always and Forever, Lara Jean by Jenny Han
Lara Jean and Peter are in their senior year of high school and planning for college. Peter is going to UVA on a lacrosse scholarship, and Lara Jean applies to attend there, too. They make plans for being together during college, but plans don't always work the way we think. Lara Jean and Peter discuss how to keep dating when they are away at college, and their relationship has a few bumps. However, they truly love each other. Lara Jean's dad and Trina begin dating and things get serious. The scenes between their dad, the Song girls, and Trina are very touching. A wonderful ending to this trilogy of teen love.
Lee
Fever Beach by Carl Hiassen
Very funny thriller.
Wendy
Broken Country by Clare Leslie Hall
This story of familial and romantic love unwraps through the lives of Beth and Frank and those surrounding them. Each person has revelations that affect the others. Drama, love, and family are all embedded in the chapters of this book. We learn the history of more than one love story as well as the history of parents who suffer an unspeakable trauma. Hall's writing keeps you gripped in a mystery of what actually happened to their son and what happened that fateful night through shifting storylines and timelines. A great read!
Delores
Plantation by Dorothea Benton Frank
Truly a masterpiece! My very favorite from this extraordinary author who gets everything about the South so right!
Becky
Holy City by Henry Wise
Henry Wise has come out of the starting gate with a sure fire winner. I actually listened to the unabridged version via Audible - one of those driveway listens where I didn't want to come into the house until I at least came to the end of the chapter. The plot quickly increases in intensity as the lead character struggles to find the killer, free an innocent man, and most of all, seeks to redeem himself for past failures and present indiscretions. Wise's talent as a poet shines through his prose making the reading not only compulsive but lyrical.
Nonie
The Perfect Divorce by Jeneva Rose
A thriller which kept you reading until the end. The lead character was a real mean girl.
Pattie
Consider Yourself Kissed by Jessica Stanley
It’s the kind of book where I think about when I’m not reading it, I look forward to getting back to it. It started at the end and I wondered how we will get to the end through the book.
Wanda
The Light in the Ruins by Chris Bohjalian
A great historian story, interesting characters you want to either love or hate. Page-turner. I enjoy this author's writing.
Luella
Bed and Breakup by Susie Dumond
Cute storyline. A historic inn brings an estranged couple back home. They both hit a professional and personal low in their lives. It's a story of love and friendship.
LisaMarie
Broken Country by Clare Leslie Hall
Wow, keeps you guessing until the end. A great mystery involving love, the choices we make that shapes our lives, and loss. Highly recommend. Such a great read.
Rosemary
Oath and Honor by Liz Cheney
A nonfiction account of the insurrection in Washington D.C. at the Capital on January 6th and the House of Representative's investigation of it, from the perspective of one of the House members. It is so intense that at times I had to put the book down and walk away for a short while. This is a book every American needs to read, to understand what happened on that date and why!
Tessa
The Sound and the Furry by Spencer Quinn
Book Six in the Chet & Bernie mystery series takes our intrepid duo East to the Louisiana bayous to search for a missing man. I just love this series. Chet (the dog who failed obedience training) narrates the adventures that he and his human, Bernie, have when they take on various cases as part of their business, the Little Detective Agency. Quinn gives us a fast-paced book, with sprinkles of humor to lessen the tension.
Michelle
Slow Burn Summer by Josie Silver
This is not my favorite Josie Silver, but it was a wonderful summer romance to kick off June. I am still not sure SLOW BURN SUMMER is the best title for it, though the romance is a slow burn and the book takes place in summer (though the season is not completely clear).
Sandy
Where the Rivers Merge by Mary Alice Monroe
Great family saga spanning generations. Well-developed characters and plot. Looking forward to the continuation of this family story when it is published .
Sandy
The Stillwater Girls by Minka Kent
Wanted to finish this one last night, but my eyes were just too tired. Story of three girls raised in a log cabin and they thought they were sisters. One of them got sick and their mama took her to get help and left the two oldest ones alone in the cabin. How they survived is a miracle.
Mary
The Last Russian Doll by Kristen Loesch
Loved the setting and historical references.
Jan
The Dark Maestro by Brendan Slocumb
Probably his best book yet. Will be fun for people who like superhero comic books. A sad family puts life back into family when they try to be honest.
Chris
Dreamer: My Life on the Edge by Nazem Kadri
Nazem Kadri delivers in this book about life on the ice with great plays, and about his life.
Betty Jo
The Lion Women of Tehran by Marijan Kamali
Good read about the turmoil cause by the fall of the Shah and the extreme faction that took over Iraq as seen through the eyes of two young women who come of age during this time.
Jana
The Emperor of Gladness by Ocean Vuong
Loved, loved this book about a hard life of simple people trying to get through life.
Maggie
When Women Were Dragons by Kelly Barnhill
This had been on my bookshelf for a while, and I finally read it this spring. Such a great story.
Janet
Did You Hear About Kitty Karr? by Crystal Smith Paul
I listened to this book. I was drawn to the book thinking it was about a different actress that I was somewhat familiar with. The book was much more than I thought it would be. The lives of the characters were so interesting. The secrets, changes in the characters lives were all intriguing. A wonderful read of historical fiction.
Jayme
Night Watch by Jayne Anne Phillips
The essence of this book is good and the writing is interestingly crafted. However, the four pages of detailed sexual assault that read like porn distracted me from the message of the book and made me wonder what Phillips was trying to prove.
Debbie
Who Will Remember by C. S. Harris
August 1816 in England illustrates a sad and perilous time in history. Due to unforeseen problems the weather is cold and rainy. No meteorologist appears daily to give updates on the weather. Local beliefs hold that this terrible weather resulted from a volcanic eruption in the winter. Economic despair hits the population mostly from the end of the Napoleonic wars and the returning destitute soldiers. A young boy finds Lord Preston Farnsworth hanging upside down in a deserted chapel and runs to find Sebastian. C. S. Harris writes an interesting novel about the secrets of the monarchy and the terrible times following Napoleon’s defeat. The government gives too little attention to the returning soldiers and their plight.
Debbie
This Is Why We Lied by Karin Slaughter
Karin Slaughter gives insight into the character of GBI investigator Will Trent. Will spent his early years in a terrible orphanage where torture ran wild. But due to a lucky break from his current boss, Amanda, Will has overcome his horrors. Until he and Sara go for a honeymoon in the mountains of Georgia. A brutal boy from their past lives and works at the resort, and immediately starts to belittle Will. Too soon, the manager of the McAlpine Lodge, Mercy McAlpine, is brutally murdered. The story focuses on all the McAlpines and their current guests. What a terrible family! But who has the greatest reason to murder Mercy? I suspected the villain, but the road to discovery runs with so many complications. Worth the long story.
Susan
Lucky Man by Michael J. Fox
It is a refreshing book. A celebrity book about a person that appears to be down to earth. Michael J. Fox addresses his struggles and how he is overcoming them. I also enjoyed reading about the movies and TV shows he was in. An interesting and entertaining book.
Nona
The Winemaker’s Wife by Kristin Harmel
This is so good! I gravitate toward WWII books, and this has not failed to keep me looking for more of the same.
Lynn
Return to Sender by Craig Johnson
Sheriff Walt Longmire is back in another installment of "The Longmire Mysteries." This book finds him in the Red Desert in southern central Wyoming where people say "odd" things happen out there. Walt is tasked to search for and bring back the USPS letter carrier who turns up missing while on her 307-mile route one day. Her vehicle shows up at the post office, but no letter carrier. All of the usuals are back in this story - Walt, Henry, Vic, Lucian, Cady, Lola, and Ruby. Important life-changing decisions need to be made by several of our friends. How will their lives change and how will they stay the same?
Ellen
The Wreck by Landon Beach
This one of several stand-alone books all written surrounding the Great Lakes. Each is fast-paced with a good intertwined plot and interesting characters. THE WRECK is set on the shores of Lake Huron and the eastern coast of Michigan. I have also read THE CABIN and THE SAIL and have found them true as described above. All have been quick reads and perfect summer reading. I will conclude my Great Lakes series foray soon by reading THE HIKE.
Simonne
We Solve Murders by Richard Osman
While entertaining, this book is a fry cry from Mr. Osman’s THURSDAY MURDER CLUB series.
The story is frustratingly far-fetched.
Simonne
The Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead
This incredibly sad book is based on a real Florida boys’ reform school. Well written and engrossing, just too sad.
Christina
Dream State by Eric Puchner
I really enjoyed this book and the development of the characters and relationships between CeCe, Garrett and Charlie. I liked being able to follow the characters all the way through their lives and then how they interact with the second generation of their families.
Christina
The Original Daughter by Jemima Wei
This was a poignant novel about a mother and her two daughters (Genevieve and Ari) growing up in Singapore. One of the daughters is an adopted child who is the progeny of Genevieve’s grandfather's secret family. Each daughter takes a different path, and the book follows the sisters relationship into their adulthood.
Christina
Spring Fling by Annie England Noblin
This is a cute, fun, easy romance novel that follows the owner of a company that makes fishing lures and her re-connection with her first love who moves back to her small town. This book is great for a summer read!
Christina
Walk Softly on This Heart of Mine by Callie Collins
I found this novel difficult for me to relate to and it was not my cup of tea. It was a depressing story and I didn’t enjoy the ending. I found it very slow moving.
Christina
Under the Stars by Beatriz Williams
I greatly enjoyed this novel. The novel details the lives of three women, a mother and daughter and a woman who lived in the 1800s. The relationship between the three women becomes clear by the end of the book. I found that each of the storylines were so interesting that as chapter was ending, I wanted to flip ahead to the next chapter to see how the story unfolds. If you are a Beatriz Williams fan, you will enjoy this novel. I thought it was one of her best. There are some familiar characters who have been in previous novels, but you do no need to have read her previous work. I like how there is a thread between a number of her books.
Christina
Maine Characters by Hannah Orenstein
I enjoyed this book. It is a good summer read. This is a story about a woman who, after going to a cabin that her father owns, discovers that she has a half-sister that she never knew about. There are a few twists in this book as well as some romance.
Christina
Sleep by Honor Jones
This was a well-written book that dealt with some serious topics including incest. The book involves a woman who has to deal with what happened to her in her childhood 25 years prior.
Christina
The Emperor of Gladness by Ocean Vuong
I did not think this novel lived up to the hype around it. I enjoyed the storyline between Hai and Graziana, but I thought there were too many other secondary stories with his mother and other extraneous threads that made it difficult to follow.
Christina
The Eights by Johanna Miller
I really loved this novel about the first women who were able to matriculate into Oxford. I enjoyed all four of the main characters.
Christina
The Griffin Sisters’ Greatest Hits by Jennifer Weiner
I greatly enjoyed this widely anticipated novel. I enjoyed the story and characters. I can’t wait to see this made into a movie so we can hear the music for the songs that Jennifer wrote in the novel!
Christina
The Very Long, Very Strange Life of Isaac Dahl by Bart Yates
This was really a wonderful read exploring the lifetime of Isaac Dahl. I loved the use of vignettes that covered important events in his life. While there were many tragic events in his life, the book was a celebration of family both genetically related as well as chosen family. I couldn’t put this book down as I wanted to see what came next in Isaac’s life. Isaac was a gay man and eventually found romantic love and his life partner. I think this book really celebrates the relationship and love of family and friends. This book was a quick read. However, it really covered a lot of ground and packed a lot of very interesting events following Isaac through his nine decades.
Elizabeth
Wrong Place Wrong Time by Gillian McAllister
This is one of the best suspense books I have ever read. I could not stop reading this until I was finished. It kept me engrossed throughout, and I never figured out what was going to happen.
Elizabeth
The Winemaker's Wife by Kristin Harmel
Excellent historical fiction story about a family involved in the resistance in wine country in France during WWII. It went back and forth from present day to the war. A family saga is woven into the story which turns out to be quite surprising. It was very well done and not confusing at all. Another excellent read from Kristin Harmel.
Ashley
Work Nights by Erica Peplin
A truly (darkly and relatably) funny novel that spices up the banality of work and life. Fast, quick, witty, and worth it. I reviewed an advanced reader copy.
Marlo
The Second Mrs. London by Marlo Faulkner
In San Francisco 1900, Charmian Kittrege meets a young writer, fresh from the Klondike and ready for fame - Jack London. It is instant chemistry, yet he marries another. Charmian becomes his friend, his editor, his boxing partner, his lover, and his second wife. This is their story told in the first person by Charmian, from the moment they meet through their marriage, their attempt to sail around the world in a yacht Jack designed, to their development of the "Beauty Ranch" in Sonoma County, her pregnancy and loss to Jack's declining health and death.
Marlo
Six Days in Bombay by Alka Joshi
In a private hospital in India, a nurse is assigned to care for a famous artist who is septic from a botched abortion. The British doctor dismisses her condition. The nurse and an Indian doctor care for her. Her husband bring several of her paintings to her room. When the artist dies, the nurse discovers notes on the back of each painting, telling her that she must deliver each work to a specific person. This quest, takes the nurse on an adventure to find each person as she finds herself. I loved the immersion into the India of the time and in the cities where she searched. Joshi has the ability to capture me and to take me on the adventure with her.
Marlo
The Stolen Queen by Fiona Davis
Davis succeeds in writing in two time lines to add mystery and intrigue as well as parallel character development that is believable and Immersing in two places, two times with two major characters...and it all works. I have read Davis' previous works and have admired her masterful plotting. This is her best.
Marlo
The Secret War of Julia Child by Diana R. Chambers
A good read. The style began a bit flat and turned into a rip roaring adventure and romance. I was fascinated by the narrative and was sorry when it was over. Then...I read the author's notes. As Child was a member of "Wild Bill" Donovan's Office of Security Secrets and did sign the secrecy oath, Chambers did not have access to actual details, even though she sights great research. The bottom line is that she created much of the adventure. As good as it is, it is more fiction than history. For me it was a great disappointment. I knew Julia Child. She was certainly capable of what Chambers writes.
Kyleigh
My Magnolia Summer by Victoria Benton Frank
MY MAGNOLIA SUMMER is a debut novel by Victoria Benton Frank. This book is charming southern fiction that follows Magnolia " Maggie" as she returns to her low country roots after a personal upheaval. What begins as a reluctant homecoming turns into a summer of rediscovery, family secrets, and unexpected romance. Victoria Benton Frank beautifully captures the low country setting and the strength of multi-generational women. With heartfelt and relatable characters, the story explores themes of forgiveness, identify and the power of going home. I'm excited about Victoria's next book coming in August and wish I pulled this book from my shelf sooner! Excellent read!
Beth
Upgrade by Blake Crouch
Blake Crouch is the only science-fiction writer I will read with any regularity. That is because his plots and subject matter are never ridiculous. That is more true of UPGRADE than of any of his other books that I've read. He succeeds in making his main character and narrator sound like a scientist when he talks about genealogy and DNA. Logan lives happily with his wife and child and never wishes for more. He is a scientist but now works as a special agent for the Gene Protection Agency. It is his job to find and arrest anyone who tries to modify genes. On one of Logan's raids of a "dark gene lab," he is impaled with a virus that will upgrade his own genes and make him an almost superhuman.
Lisa
That Librarian by Amanda Jones
I read this and was outraged by the individuals and groups who attacked the character of librarian, Amanda Jones, and vehemently condemned books and their selection process in the library system. Book banning is a subject that rankles me. I recommended this to one of my book clubs and it led to lively discussion about book banning and was relevant to what we currently seeing going on in our community and nationwide.
LuAnn
The Martha’s Vineyard Beach and Book Club by Martha Hall Kelly
THE MARTHA'S VINEYARD BEACH AND BOOK CLUB by Martha Hall Kelly was another take on the effects of WWII on the lives of family, friends, and lifelong relationships here in America. I loved the story of how books got these characters through trying times and provided soldiers with a way to escape the horrors of war. It is another example of how books can save you. A wonderful and inspirational story. Martha Hall Kelly’s books are always fantastic reads!
Benjamin
The Lake of Lost Girls by Katherine Greene
Great multi-timeline novel with a gripping disappearance at the heart of it. Loved it.
Megan
What He Left Behind by Benjamin Bradley
A perfect summer read for lovers of small town murder mysteries.
Sheila
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhorn
Based on her actual diary, the depiction of a midwife in the late 1700s was very realistic. The town's life and relationships are also well researched with elements of mystery and suspense that kept me paging ahead to a surprising climax and finish. Wonderful story, one of the best so far this year!
dee
Real Americans by Rachel Khong
An epic multigenerational family saga divided into three sections with each section centering on a different family member. The book questions who is a "Real American" while looking at immigrants and their American-born children for discussions of race, genetics, culture and wealth, in other words, a lot of big topics. I do think there was too much and could have given a greater focus to one or two topics. Yet, I was interested, and I was curious how Khong would bring it all together. A creative work.
Sheila
Slow Noodles: A Cambodian Memoir of Love, Loss, and Family Recipes by Chantha Nguon
Very interesting insight into Cambodia during the time period of the Vietnam War. The author lived through some very tough times. Some of the trauma is lightened by her insight into how important food is for all, culturally as well as spirit lifting. How she overcame many obstacles and helped others is very inspiring.
Donna
The Names by Florence Knapp
THE NAMES, Florence Knapp’s debut, is an eloquently-written book about a very disturbing topic - domestic abuse, both physical and emotional. The premise of the book is that we each have only one life to live, and how the name chosen for us not only affects the unfolding of that life, but might even guide it. Although the structure is quite original, constantly shifting between three different scenarios depending on the name chosen, I did find it confusing at times. The writing is very good, but I would have preferred getting to know the characters on a deeper level which wasn’t possible with three different versions going on. However, I certainly will be watching for Ms. Knapp’s future releases.
Shari
The Holiday Cottage by Sarah Morgan
Imogene has lived most of her life in stories she has made up to fit in with others. She never had a close relationship with her mother as she did not want to have anything to do with her. She tells her repeatedly how she wishes she had never given birth to her, so she wants to be called Tina. She has lived independently since college. Since her mother was never around, she held three jobs to put herself through college. Imogene feels she must live this way until unexpected news turns her life around. How can this be possible, and how could all of the stories her mother told her be lies? Can she have a normal life and a family that she always dreamed of but never had? This is an incredible story and not just a Christmas story.
MaryJo
The Names by Florence Knaop
Very good, a premise I’ve never encountered. Depending on the name given to the little boy baby, a different outcome revolves for the life of the family. The mother is an abused woman and the child’s name influences the degree of abuse.
Liz
Speak to Me of Home by Jeanine Cummins
This is a multi-generational story spanning several decades which centers around the lives of the women in this family. Mother-daughter relationships are at the center of this well-told story. I prefer stories that go from start to finish and not jump back and forth in time. When an author does this I feel the story loses some of its momentum.
Rebecca
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon
This is an excellent example of historical fiction, made even more interesting by the fact that the novel is based on the actual notes of Maine resident Martha Ballard. We meet Martha as a married mother and midwife during the late 1800s. She is an intelligent strong woman with the challenge of living during a time of male dominance. A mystery evolves as a body is found in the frozen river and Martha is enlisted to determine the cause of death. It was extremely easy to get caught up in the lives of all the characters and evoked feelings of shock, empathy, inspiration, curiosity and more.
Julie
Oona Out of Order by Margarita Montimore
Cute premise and I absolutely loved Oona (and her mother). I’m not a huge fan of books with a time travel theme (this was a book club pick), but I did enjoy this one. If you’re looking for an entertaining read that’s on the light side, this may be the one for you!
Francisca
A Year in the World by Frances Mayes
Subtitle: Journeys of a Passionate Traveler. Mayes recounts her many adventures traveling from her home base in Tuscany as she and her husband roam through the British Isles, Spain, Portugal, Turkey, Greece, Morocco, France and other areas of Italy. Her passion for travel certainly comes through loud and clear! I particularly enjoyed the way she wrote about food. I could practically smell and taste the dishes, and I was constantly hungry for “more.”
Debbie
Purgatory Ridge by William Kent Krueger
William Kent Krueger writes a descriptive and eloquent story in a style that forces one to continue reading long into the day or night. Cork and Jo have decided to rekindle their romance and Cork has moved back home. Sheriff Wally Schanno plans to retire at the end of his term, and everyone hopes that Cork will run for sheriff. This story involves those fighting to preserve the forest and those who make a living stripping the forest. Krueger also incorporates a factual event of an ore freighter that sunk after a vicious storm and only one man survived. In this story, the sole survivor of a similar event, John LePere, struggles with what happened and the terrible loss of his younger brother.
Shari
Lies He Told Me by James Patterson and David Ellis
Most outsiders would think that Marcie and David Bowers have the perfect marriage. Grace and Lincoln have two children and live in a beautiful home in Hemingway Grove. Things don't always look as they seem, and Marcie realizes that after a couple of strange things start happening. As usual, it's a quick page-turner and something you won't want to put down. Of course, there are twists and turns to figure out, but the end will not disappoint you.
Theresa
Death at the White Hart by Chris Chibnall
This is by the creator of BROADCHURCH so that alone made this an obvious read for me. This book was suspenseful and fast-paced with short chapters making it easy to lose all track of time. With likable characters and a satisfying ending, I am hopeful this is a first in a new series!
Simonne
We Solve Murders by Richard Osman
Lots of characters, lots of fun.
Karen
Marble Hall Murders by Anthony Horowitz
Complex and cunningly smart. A great read.
Nikki
Sandwich by Catherine Newman
I loved this book! I was crying one moment and laughing the next! The author made the characters very relatable and I could feel a great kinship to what they were going through. I loved the way the dialogue between the mother and daughter was written as well. This is a new author for me and I will have to check out her other work!
Rocky
Murder by Cheesecake: A Golden Girls Cozy Mystery by Rachel Ekstrom Courage
This is the first book in a projected series and it helps to be a Golden Girls fan. There is lots (AND LOTS) of detail about the lives of our four, especially Rose in this first book. The book could be somewhat shorter and there are many continuity errors, but I still enjoyed the book and will definitely read the next one in the anticipated series. I'm hopeful that a stronger editor will help to shorten the next book and pick a different "G. Girl" as the main protagonist. Involving all four women, a great deal about St. Olaf from Rose's family and past, and lots of interesting details about Miami, this is a fun read and a fairly quick one. It's definitely a cozy mystery and kept me guessing until the end.
Teresa
On a Quiet Street by Seraphina Nova Glass
This thriller exposes a neighborhood where the 'typical' people that live there are interwoven in rather perverted ways in each other's lives, just by proximity, and as the reader you're left wondering if this behavior is more common in today's world than one would think. These women, who somehow all stay at home become obsessed with each other's lives, spy on the neighbors and one is hiding something terrifying from everyone and afraid for her life! This is easy to become engrossed in and has a shocking ending with plenty of twists! Come experience the intriguing troubles and fears of the upper crust women and men who could have everything but are too absorbed in their own troubles to recognize the evil that lives there, too.
Peg
The Fire Watcher by Lars Kepler
Gritty Nordic noir but with excellent character development and plot twists along the journey.
Ann
The Bulgarian Training Manual by Ruth Bonapace
A combo of genres that left me a little perplexed at times - I didn’t really understand some of the humor. I could relate to the basic storyline of working out, growing stronger (both physically & mentally), and finding comfort in your own self.
Joan
The Story She Left Behind by Patti Callahan Henry
A search for a mother who left her child when she was nine brings the main character to London to piece together the past. Henry’s writing is so atmospheric you can see every detail of the setting. A story about sacrifice and redemption, and the power of healing.
Pam
My Friends by Fredrik Backman
Excellent book relating childhood and family dysfunctions, and the beauty of friends.
Susann
Small Things Like These by Claire Keegan
A short novella that hits you in the gut! Loved it!
Jeanne
Guarding Her Christmas Secret by Jill Weatherholt
This is an excellent addition to the K-9 Companion series. It is an inspirational, heartwarming story about second chances, rediscovering oneself after a tragic family loss, grief and love. I received an ebook copy of this book from the author.
Jayme
Love & Saffron by Kim Fay
This is a lovely story about the three most important things in life - friendship, food, and love. I enjoyed how we watched the relationship between Immy and Joan develop through years of letter writing (why don't we write letters anymore) and how the background of the 1960s enhance the story. Warning: this book will make you crack open your dusty cookbooks and start creating.
Susan
My Friends by Fredrik Backman
Wonderful characters with lots of agonies and small triumphs. Laugh and cry in the same paragraph. Backman is a master at developing characters that feel real, vulnerable and sad. He exposes the laughable, ridiculous parts of life while finding the beauty underneath.
Rosemary
Truth & Beauty by Ann Patchett
This book tells of the intense friendship between author Ann Patchett and poet/author Lucy Grealy, beginning in college and lasting until the death of Grealy. It entails both the emotional struggles of learning and practicing their crafts and the physical struggles of Grealy. She had cancer in her face from early childhood and numerous surgeries. They left her malformed and made her a victim of childhood bullying. The friendship made an enormous difference in her adult life. While certainly not a happy tale, it is inspiring in what love and devotion can do to help someone accept the tragedies of life.
Debra
The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
This epistolary novel will stay with me for years to come. I am still thinking about how this author peels back the onion on the inner thoughts of this elderly woman who thinks she’s accomplished everything in her life. As she writes to family, friends, other authors and even strangers, we uncover her lingering undone feelings and thoughts as her past events and experiences are slowly and intricately revealed. It’s amazing to witness how an elderly woman can come to terms with her past mistakes and disappointments and still lead a full life! This novel is so beautifully crafted and the audio version is perfection!
Cynthia
Carnegie’s Maid by Marie Benedict
Very interesting.
Betty
False Knight by Peter Turnbull
I'm following through on the Hennessey and Yellitch series. Good police procedurals set in the city of York (England).
Meggan
The Keeper by Charles Martin
Fourth of the Murphy Shepherd series, THE KEEPER continues the lesson of persistent love overcoming evil. Murph battles child trafficking (the needs of the one outweigh the needs of the many) which saps away bits of his heart, but is restored by the unconditional love of his incredible wife. I love the entire series - 5 stars isn't enough!
LisaMarie
Anxious People by Fredrik Backman
I truly laughed out loud! This book was so entertaining and the characters were so true to life. I loved this quote in the book, “Addicts are addicted to their drugs, and their families are addicted to hope.” So very true if you ever had someone in your life who has suffered with addiction. Easy read also.
MH
The Martha’s Vineyard Beach and Book Club by Martha Hall Kelly
Another book about WWII, but this one set in the U.S. I was delighted not to see graphic descriptions of battles or civilians battling severe food shortages and deprivations. The story centers around a family of mostly women, including the military son’s girlfriend, who has escaped from her controlling mother. An overbearing officer and his men begin training exercises and run through the farm, taking over the nearby beach. And a spy seems to be in their midst. The story starts with a modern setting, but quickly segues into the past; the connection to that is tenuous at first, but becomes clear in the end. The author has clearly scored another winner! I love her books.
Irene
The Quiet Librarian by Allen Eskens
It’s a book that really kept my interest. The main character is a complex person with an interesting past.
Nicole
Run for the Hills by Kevin Wilson
Another wonderful, quirky story from Kevin Wilson!! As soon as I finish one, I wait breathlessly for the next!
Kathryn
The Light Pirate by Lily Brooks-Dalton
Living in south Florida, this made such an impact. How did I miss it in 2022? Strong story, page- turner. Shows what is ahead with the climate change. The life Wanda has to live is incredible, but a prediction. Felt I was right there in the water with her.
Joan
West With Giraffes by Lynda Rutledge
Every page of this book was a delight!! If you have not read it, you are missing out!!
Gerry
Spectacular Things by Beck Dorey-Stein
This novel very much resonated with me, as a soccer fan and a living kidney donor. Mia and Cricket have been very close throughout their lives, but especially since their mother died suddenly when Mia was 19 and Cricket 13. After their mother's death, Mia took her place as both Cricket's legal guardian and also as her constant support person as she worked hard to achieve success in soccer, chasing her mother's Olympic dreams. Cricket had just about reached her goal when Mia's life changed dramatically: a complicated pregnancy and delivery left her with serious kidney damage & in need of an organ transplant. Could Cricket give up her career to save her sister's life? Was Mia asking too much of her sister just as her dreams seemed in reach?
Gerry
Trust: America's Best Chance by Pete Buttigieg
It was actually hard to listen to this, knowing it was written, edited, and recorded in 2020, after Pete Buttigieg dropped out of the primary race but prior to the national election. In this short book, he described the dangers of our (then and now) current state of widespread mistrust, and the great importance of trust for the functioning of our republic. He closed the book with examples of how trust might best be restored, a process that was not successfully accomplished during Biden's presidency, and is now even more difficult to imagine with Trump 2.0 firmly in place. It also included his speech to his campaign team when he ended his campaign for the Democratic nomination in 2020, which was heartfelt and optimistic.
Jeffrey
When We Cease to Understand the World by Benjamin Labatut
Technology. Will it save us or destroy us? Labatut gets into the minds of the 20th-Century's greatest mathematicians and physicists to illuminate the wonder and toll of genius. It tells the story of the evolution of quantum physics and the dawn of what's being called the greatest leap in human achievement since the Industrial Revolution. This is narrative nonfiction at its best.
Gerry
Force of Nature by Jane Harper
3-1/2 stars. I’ve read the first and third books in this series, and now finally got around to #2. Unfortunately it was not as engaging or suspenseful as either of the others. Aaron Falk is working for an unnamed investigative agency when one of his sources suddenly disappears during a “team-building” event sponsored by the company he’s investigating. With multiple potential suspects and a couple likely motivations, there was plenty to investigate, even while the search for Alice proceeded. A good but not great mystery set in the Australian bush country.
Gerry
Trust by Hernan Diaz
TRUST is a well-written and completely engaging novel that tells the story of a wealthy financier in NYC in the early twentieth century from multiple viewpoints: in a novel written by a competitor, in an autobiography dictated by the financier, in a narrative by the secretary hired to type and edit that autobiography, and in journal entries by his wife composed prior to her death from cancer. Four very different stories yield a fascinating tale of privilege and deceit. This is definitely my best book of the month!
Sandy
Fly Away Home by Jennifer Weiner
Really good read.
Gerry
Speak to Me of Home by Jeanine Cummins
I had high hopes for this novel, having loved two previous titles (AMERICAN DIRT and THE OUTSIDE BOY) by this author. But this novel was so fragmented by the back-and-forth of multiple timelines that none of the characters was fully fleshed out, and I found myself caring less and less about them and the events of their lives. Actually, two of the three main female characters seemed so similar to one another (intentionally, perhaps?) that it seemed quite possible that the events described could have happened equally well to either of them. In any case, after reading about two-thirds of the book, I just skipped ahead and read the last 50 or so pages. And the ending was just as syrupy and unsatisfying as I expected.
Gerry
A Flicker in the Dark by Stacey Willingham
2-1/2 stars for a thriller that started strong but went on too long before fizzling out with an unsatisfying ending. The resolution of the mystery was telegraphed pretty clearly early on, and although the author repeatedly tried to convince me my guess was wrong, it proved right in the end. None of the characters was exactly who he or she seemed to be, which made it difficult to like or connect with any of them. Chloe made so many poor decisions, and never seemed to use the knowledge and skills she should have developed as a Ph.D. psychologist. All of the secrets and hidden motivations were meant to add to the mystery, I suppose, but just became tiresome by the end of the book.
Debbie
The Art Thief by Michael Finkel
Excellent writing.
Donna
Dept. of Speculation by Jenny Offill
The book is written as brief moments in time. Reading the book is like flipping through someone’s diary. You read a few consecutive entries, skip ahead, and then read other entries at random. Some of the entries are quite short and others are vague. Instead of names, the characters are referred to as husband, sister, friend, etc. It is such a unique book.
Jen
How to Survive a Horror Story by Mallory Arnold
This book is releasing in July. It has traditional haunted house vibes, but the spin Arnold puts on it feels fresh and new. This one is all about the secrets and backstories of the main characters. I definitely enjoyed this one!
Nancy
Tom Lake by Ann Patchett
With all the hoopla about this book, I thought I would love it. I did at first, and then I got bogged down. Not sure why. I didn't like many of the characters, but that's happened to me with other books that I thoroughly enjoyed. It's an interesting premise -- three daughters come home to their mother in Michigan and want to know about her past relationship with a famous actor. It is a good story about mother-daughter relationships and also marriage. I teach memoir-writing, and it had an interesting twist about what you remember, what you forget and what you choose to ignore. I'd say give it a try, and, hopefully, you'll feel better about it than I did.
Sandy
The House Behind the Dunes by Mary Burton
I don't think I have ever read anything by Mary Burton before, but she certainly has a great imagination! Lane McCord wakes up in a hospital having survived a near fatal fall at a North Carolina beach cottage. Her boyfriend Kyle wasn't so lucky. A senseless tragedy on their first romantic getaway. All Lane remembers is lying at the bottom or the stairs in Kyles pooling blood.
How well did she know Kyle? How well does she know herself? What really happened at the cottage on the beach?
Lynda
There are Rivers in the Sky by Elif Shafak
The writing in this historical novel is beautifully descriptive. I was transported to ancient Mesopotamia and 2010s Iraq along the Tigris River and Victorian London beside the Thames on an epic journey. The most important theme of the story is a reverence for our most precious resource - water.
Elizabeth
People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry
This a a 3-1/2 star book for me. I sometimes grew impatient with Poppy and Alex and their on again off again romance/friendship. But the relationship issues they went through felt real to me. And some of their banter was quite amusing and made me laugh.
Jeanne
Guarding Her Christmas Secret by Jill Weatherholt
GUARDING HER by Jill Weatherholt is an excellent addition to the K-9 Companion series. It is an inspirational and heartwarming story about second chances, rediscovering oneself after a tragic family loss, grief and love. I received an eBook copy of this book from the author and these opinions are strictly my own.
Elizabeth
The Lion Women of Tehran by Marjan Kamali
Captivating. Story of two different women who become lifelong friends as young girls. Their lives take very different paths. Highly recommended.
Darlene
The Bookclub for Troublesome Women by Marie Bostwick
Good read.
Diane
We All Live Here by Jojo Moyes
I felt that the book started out a bit slow and without much depth, but once I got into about 1/3 of the story, I was finally hooked. I started to really care about the characters at that point and appreciated their inner strengths and growth.
Jo Ann
The Final Wish of Mr. Murray McBride by Joe Siple
Great sequel to THE FIVE WISHES OF MR. MURRAY MCBRIDE. This as well as the previous book were very sweet and lead to thoughts of aging but never growing old.
Krystyna
The Housemaid’s Secret by Frieda McFadden
Loved all the twists and turns in this book. I could not put this book down until I finished reading it!
Millie finally has a job - working for a very wealthy man who has a very sick wife.
Kay
A Fall of Marigolds by Susan Meissner
I enjoy all books by this author, and this book is no exception. It is a story of two brave women born a century apart whose lives come together through a scarf. I enjoyed every page of this book! Susan Meissner is a wonderful author!!
Krystyna
The Perfect Couple by Elin Hilderbrand
I have read many of Hilderbrand’s books while sitting on the beach on Caoe Cod. This book is no exception! It differs from the others in that it is a mystery. I enjoyed the book - it is much better than the movie. Another five stars for Elin Hilderbrand!!
Karen
Orbital by Samantha Harvey
Despite being a stream of consciousness writing style, the description of looking at Earth from orbit is beautiful. Also, the characters become a 'floating family' of sorts.
Beth
Class Clown by Dave Barry
In classic Dave Barry fashion, this book is highly entertaining. Including personal stories of his parents and childhood, Barry's memoir follows his writing career and gives a nod to his fans (and enemies) and his beginnings in the field. I laughed out loud while trying to not to wake my sleeping husband each night while I was reading. I cannot recommend CLASS CLOWN enough!
Sean
Sometimes I Lie by Alice Feeney
Newer domestic-type thrillers now always have me trying to spot the twist. Alice Feeney's debut novel includes so many twists, it was nearly impossible to spot them all. The novel, told through the lens of an unreliable narrator and jumping in time from old diary entries, to last week, and to the present. The book presents red herrings and some horribly evil acts with a ton of mental illnesses thrown in as well. The book was captivating and pretty insane, with possibly too many twists, but it entertained the hell out of me. After each subsequent twist, I thought I knew what was coming next, then to get gut-punched. Overall, a thrilling twist-filled roller coaster.
Linda
The Glassmaker by Tracy Chevalier
Very interesting story about generations of Murano glassmakers, and the role of women in the evolving business. It was a little confusing as the chapters skipped decades of time as the characters very slowly aged. It was a treat to see some of our book club members wear their Murano glass jewelry to our meeting.
Richard N B
Give the Boys a Great Big Hand by Ed McBain
First published in 1960, this is book number eleven in the 87th Precinct mystery series and starts with the discovery of a severed hand in a tote bag. It’s a classic police procedural mystery that held my interest throughout. There are several red herrings (both for the cops and for the reader), but the boys of the 87th precinct are nothing if not tenacious. They WILL get the guy or gal responsible.
Gerry
Original Sin: President Biden's Decline, Its Cover-Up, and His Disastrous Choice to Run Again by Jake Tapper and Alex Thompson
A painful read, but one that seems thoroughly researched, this book presents a clear and cogent picture of President Biden’s last months in office, increasingly surrounded and protected by a small cadre of supporters who filtered the information reaching him to present it always in the most favorable and optimistic light. Whether they were protecting his ego or their own powerful positions is unknown, but the authors make it clear the deception was not in the best interest of the country. For me personally, it's sad to see a man I had long respected close his career in this way.
Donna
Long Road to Mercy by David Baldacci
This is the first book of the Atlee Pine series and it was thrilling. Leave it to Baldacci to keep you in suspense. I usually don't read series but it was recommended to me. Wow, this book written in 2018 could be Today 2025! Yikes, this world and all the government stuff that goes on. I know it is a book, yet it keeps you captivated and I did not put it down and read it quickly. I do hope you read it and enjoy. Onto the next book in the series of four.
Liz
The Couple at Table Six by Daniel Hurst
Hannah is a waitress at an Italian restaurant. While working she fantasizes about a young, obviously in love and wealthy couple who come in every Friday night and sit at table six. She begins to wonder what her life would be like if she were with the husband instead of his wife. As she starts to become involved in the couple's life, she learns there are secrets that are being kept. Now she must replace the wife because she feels the wife is not good enough for him. She begins to blackmail them with disastrous consequences.
Dawn
The Queens of Crime by Marie Benedict
Although I have read many other novels by Marie Benedict, when she writes separately and when she writes with Victoria Christopher Murray, I found this book to be very mediocre. The concept of the book was good, but I kept falling asleep reading it, including in the daytime. Way too much detailed description for me. Personally, I don't care what types of clothes they wore or how many cups of tea they drank. I did like that the book was written in chronological order and not divided up into sections by each character. It makes it less confusing, to me at least. I have liked her other novels, but this one, not so much.
Beth
Out of the Easy by Ruta Sepetys
Ruta Sepetys writes young adult historical fiction. I normally do not care for YA, but I've found that her books work well as crossovers to adult fiction. OUT OF THE EASY, however, although excellent for young adults, does not come across to me as adult. Josie is 17 years old in 1950 New Orleans, "the easy." As the daughter of a dishonest prostitute, she has been living on her own for years now in a city where she does not belong. She wants out, so she dreams of going away to college in Massachusetts, and she does everything she can to make it really happen. Most of OUT OF THE EASY is about how she does that. It's a storyline for young adults. And the situations Josie finds herself in would appeal to young adults.
Theresa
Forget Me Not by Stacy Willingham
If you’re looking for a thriller that you can binge in a day or two, this will definitely be one to look for. Told in dual timelines and a fearless main protagonist determined to get the answers she is looking for, this was fast-paced with some compelling twists to keep you guessing to the end. Stacy Willingham has yet to disappoint; she is an author to keep an eye on and put on auto-read. I will be eagerly awaiting her next book.
Theresa
The Wasp Trap by Mark Edwards
A slow-burn, locked room thriller with twists at every turn. Told in dual timelines with characters that were not unlikable, but I wish I cared a bit more about them. You will learn how they came to know each other 25 years ago and what has put them in the predicament they find themselves in now. Revealing secrets from long ago in the hopes it will put an end to the madness only seems to cause more harm than good while also revealing some new secrets. THE WASP TRAP by Mark Edwards is a satisfying and suspenseful thriller with some well-played twists; one in particular really packed a punch! This was my first book by Edwards but it won’t be my last. Good thing he has quite a few out to keep me busy until his next one.
Theresa
Badlands by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child
This is the latest book in the Nora Kelly series. I hate to say it but I was a bit disappointed in this one. While I enjoy learning about ancient peoples and their cultures, I would have liked to see a little more action and a faster pace. It was fun to see Nora and Corrie working together again, both being strong female characters. It’s possible the timing just wasn’t right for me and this book. While the dynamic duo of Preston and Child are still among my favorites, I’m hoping for a bit more in their next book.
mary lou
The Measure by Nikki Erlick
Very interesting premise: being told when you will die. My book club really got into deep discussion about the characters and how they reacted to their end of life prediction. We all enjoyed the book and debated our own choices on whether we would like to know our personal time line and what it would mean to our decisions.
Luella
Wicked Prey by John Sandford
Another great Lucas Davenport series book. Lots of action adventures and suspense. Highly recommend.
Pam
Wait for Dark by Kay Hooper
Poorly written with VERY slow pacing. Don't bother with this one unless you are a die-hard fan of the series.
Pam
The Amalfi Curse by Sarah Penner
THE AMALFI CURSE was mostly plot driven, and I missed having more depth in the characters. Just didn't feel as engaged as I did with THE LOST APOTHECARY.
Pam
Beach House Rules by Kristy Woodson Harvey
Another great audiobook experience! This uplifting beach read about female friendship, found family, and the power of community was brought to life by narrators Cassandra Campbell, Mia Hutchinson-Shaw, and Suehyla El-Attar Young.
Jo Anne
True Sisters by Sandra Dallas
This book was a real page-turner, yet at the same time it was very difficult to read because of what these people endured. It is historical fiction and was a part of history that I knew nothing about. I am certainly glad I read this book and I highly recommend it.
Jo Anne
The God of the Woods by Liz Moore
When a 13-year-old girl goes missing from a prestigious summer camp, it becomes apparent that questions should have been asked 14 years earlier when her 8-year-old brother disappeared from the same area and was never found. This is a story about wealth privilege family dynamics and how keeping up appearances impacts others for years to come. I could not put this book down. I have never read a book by this author before, but I plan to read other books she has written.
Jo Anne
The Queen's Fortune by Allison Pataki
When we hear of the life and love of Napoleon Bonaparte, we immediately think of his wife Josephine. But before Josephine, there was a beautiful young girl by the name of Desiree Clary who was promised a future with Napoleon. Those plans turn to sudden heartbreak. However, she is forced to remain in Napoleon's life as her sister Julie marries his brother Joseph. This book is about a woman little known to history yet despite all that she endures during tumultuous times, she not only adapts and survives but reigns at the helm of a dynasty that outlasts and empire. An excellent piece of little-known history.
Donna
King of Ashes by S. A. Cosby
As a big S. A. Cosby fan, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on his latest, KING OF ASHES, an intriguing premise, gritty and tense. In typical Cosby style, this is beautifully written, vivid and raw with graphic descriptions of violence. A tale that questions just how far you would go to protect your family. To be perfectly honest, this wasn’t my favorite Cosby book. I just could not make an emotional connection with any of the characters. Still it was a good read, and I had to know how it would end. And what a wild ride that ending was. Will I be picking up the next Cosby book? Without a doubt!
Nancy
The Guest Cottage by Lori Foster
I have never read a book by Lori Foster before but after reading THE GUEST COTTAGE, my reading list has become so much longer. It is a wonderful summer read with many memorable characters. Marlow, the main character, is a strong woman who can take care of herself but is also a caring person. Which was one of the reasons I loved it. Please give yourself a treat and read this book. I think it is the first in a series of books and I hope Lori can hurry and get the second book written because I can’t wait!
Suzanne
The First Gentleman by Bill Clinton and James Patterson
Different concept with the wife as president and husband the first gentleman. Not heavy reading and a fast read and enjoyable. I couldn't help but think of how things went when Bill Clinton was president and about his views.
Anita
The Square of Sevens by Laura Shepherd-Robinson
In 1730, a young girl called Red travels with her father in England predicting fortunes. When he dies she goes to live with a guardian her father chose called Mr. Antrobus. At that time, Red is 7 years old. When she is a teenager, Mr. Antrobus dies. She is an orphan and has no idea who are mother was or how she died. Her father indicated he had enemies and was afraid he would be killed. She is anxious to find figure out all the mysteries and discover her heritage. Again, a very good book by Ms. Shepherd-Robinson
Tessa
The Soul of an Octopus by Sy Montgomery
Subtitle: A Surprising Exploration Into the Wonder of Consciousness. Montgomery spent a year volunteering at the New England Aquarium to study and learn about octopuses. This is her memoir of that time, and it’s marvelous!
Donna
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
The protagonist is Liesel, a young girl growing up in Germany during the early and mid-1940s. When her mother can no longer care for her, she is forced to live with foster parents. Alone in this unfamiliar world, Liesel slowly adapts to her new life. Her strongest relationships are with her foster father and a boy who lives next door. At first, World War II looms in the background. But soon she is directly impacted by the war. Her story is one that stays with the reader long after the last page has been read.
Cinthu
Iron Love by Kenyatta Jones-Arietta
You know that feeling when you open a book just to “peek” before bed, and suddenly it’s 7 a.m., you’re emotionally wrecked and left contemplating your current and all past relationships. This was my experience while reading IRON LOVE. It was a roller coaster read from start to finish and I couldn’t put it down. Hands down one of my favorite reads of 2025.
Matt
Iron Love by Kenyatta Jones-Arietta
This book is outstanding! It beautifully captured the nuances and complexities of a modern relationship. It shared so much knowledge about love, relationships, communication, marriage, and trust. I found myself nodding in agreement and wanting to apply the information immediately to my own relationship. The book perfectly balanced wisdom with humor, personality, heart, drama, grab you by the shirt stories, and ultimately inspiration. After reading it, I’m inspired. It is the kind of book that makes you feel, makes you think, and makes you appreciate. It is also the kind of book that you can read again and again. I give IRON LOVE the highest recommendation I could possibly give.
Emily
Iron Love by Kenyatta Jones-Arietta
Wow. I was so moved by this book. This manages to be both deeply personal (which is what really speaks to me as a reader) and also incredibly useful. I found myself sitting with some uncomfortable (but really powerful) reflections as I read and nodding my head a lot! It helped me see some things about my own patterns and choices that were incredibly timely and important.
Anne-Marie
Iron Love by Kenyatta Jones-Arietta
I've never read a book so fast - I absolutely loved it. I truly believe IRON LOVE was the book I was meant to read - right now, at this exact moment. After going through a breakup, Kenyatta's story reminded me that love is still out there. It restored my hope. She created something so powerful and and IRON LOVE is exactly what we all need right now.
Haley
Iron Love by Kenyatta Jones-Arietta
Absolutely beautiful work by a gorgeous author. Especially for the time I’m at in my life, this book helped me feel better about my current dating situation and how my generation seems to go about things. This book definitely on the shelf next to my other manifesting tips and tricks books!
Lyss
Iron Love by Kenyatta Jones-Arietta
IRON LOVE was the book I was meant to read!! The way Kenyatta describes her journey really restored my faith in love. This book is so powerful, if you’re looking for a great read, start IRON LOVE.