Debbie
Fever Beach by Carl Hiaasen
So many interesting and very dimensional characters in FEVER BEACH by Carl Hiaasen. I needed to keep a list of the characters because some had different names depending on their location and the people involved in the situation. The story follows those extremist white males, who fight against all with different skin color, sexual orientation, and gender. Twilly Spree and Viva Morales stand as the most likeable individuals. Spree uses his wealth in great tasks. Spree believes in goodness and protecting the planet. The fiasco when Dale Figgo and his Strokers for Liberty raid a drag queen establishment shows that sometimes the underdog wins. The story contains many nuances such as the corruption of elected officials.
Tessa
The Story Collector by Evie Woods
This is a charming fable of love lost and love found, of superstition and faith, of family and community, of grief and recovery. Sarah was at times infuriating, but I came to understand her need to grieve and to face her demons. I really liked the way her relationship with Oran developed. I liked the historical timeline as well, but I had a hard time believing Anna, a village girl, would have written her diary in this way.
Christina
Offtrack by Esha Patel
This was a much more enjoyable read than I expected!! I loved learning about the world of F1. The characterization and developing relationship between Diana and Miguel was very well done.
Rose
Sounds Like Love by Ashley Poston
I really enjoy Ashley Poston's novels. They are fun and romantic, and they always have a bit of magic. In this novel, a songwriter, Joni, is stuck. She hasn't been able to write since hearing that her mom's memory is fading. Prior to heading home to NC, and the family music venue, The Revelry, she stops by a concert for a star who is singing her song. There she meets a former boy band star and bad boy, Sebastian Fell. They share a memorable kiss. Then, she starts hearing a voice in her head. Someone is sharing her thoughts. They speak to each other in their minds, and he calls her Bird (songbird) and she calls him Sasha. They decide to meet, but when Sebastian shows up, Joni can't believe it is him. Bittersweet romance.
Rose
Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid
In the 1980s, the NASA Space Shuttle program is beginning. Joan Goodwin has been interested in space since she was a child and tells her niece, Frances, all about her dreams. Now, she is an astronaut and is working with a wonderful team to be sent into space. She falls in love with a fellow astronaut. However, this love is not meant to be exposed as it may be frowned upon by NASA and the public. When Vanessa Ford is sent to space, the mission has an issue. Can Joan help Vanessa and the team return to Earth? Emotional and beautiful, I truly enjoyed this story. I remember watching the first Space Shuttle mission in 1981, so this story resonated with me.
Sean
Mind of Winter by Laura Kasischke
This was incredibly poorly written with a meandering, almost incoherent plot with a "twist" that didn't matter. The book takes place over one Christmas Day as wife and mother, Holly, wonders if there is something wrong with her adopted Russian daughter, Tatiana. The book sways in and out of thoughts in the middle of paragraphs without rhyme nor reason. Author Laura Kasischke, a poet of some regard, struggles to make this interesting as it's not a thriller, far from horror, and completely unenjoyable. Overall, this is devoid of merit and I would like the four days I spent struggling to care about this back.
Rose
Maya & Natasha by Elyse Durham
Twin sisters, Maya and Natasha, are Russian ballet dancers. Their mother, a dancer herself, died when they were born. This information haunts them. They compete with each other for parts, and as they mature the Cold War is taking hold. They are forbidden from dancing together due to fears of defection. A story of ambition, family, and political divides. Interesting story, which highlights some of the history and fallout of the Cold War.
Karen
Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry
Well-developed characters. Good story with twists and turns throughout.
Kathy
Finding Grace by Loretta Rothschild
A short review is necessary to prevent any spoilers. Highly recommend this brilliant novel!!! The emotional beginning of FINDING GRACE is jaw-dropping and completely unexpected. The characters are three-dimensional with realistic flaws and strengths. One of the perspectives is unusual but adds an incredible amount of depth to the unfolding story. The first few chapters are packed with deep emotions. The storyline is unique and has a “waiting for the other shoe to drop” element due to one of the characters’ decisions. Loretta Rothschild’s debut is utterly captivating from the stunning first chapter to the heartwarming conclusion.
Teresa
The Tenant by Freida McFadden
It was awesome, a bit different than many of Freida's books! The lead character loses his high-powered job, so to make ends meet, he and his new fiancé take in a roommate! Things almost instantly go awry and continue to get worse as the weeks go by. I'm not going to reveal the totally surprising ending, but even I was a bit shocked, which takes a lot with all of the psychological thrillers I read! Let's just say that sometimes those closest to you aren't who you think they are and often those you trust the least, may shock you!
Debbie
We Would Never by Tova Mirvis
Well written.
Jane
A Northern Light in Provence by Elizabeth Birkelund
The title intrigued me as well as the plot. I mean who wouldn't want to go to Provence, France? I know I would. This is an opportunity of a lifetime for Ilse considering she's a translator from French to English and in the process of translating a poet's work, and getting out of cold Greenland is another incentive. I really enjoyed this beautifully-written book. I learned a lot about Greenland and of course Provence. This book is definitely written differently than other books somehow and very poetic. The descriptions are vivid and I felt like I was there and experiencing these things with Ilse like she was for the very first time. I never knew there was a dialect Provencal, which is different from the French dialect.
Jane
Speak to Me of Home by Jeanine Cummins
This book alternated from generation of women (Rafaela, Ruth, and Daisy) in this family during different eras. The discrimination of Puerto Ricans in 1979 was definitely there. Peter, Rafaela's husband joined a exclusive country club where they lived in St. Louis, Missouri, with their two kids, and was turned down even after paying exorbitant fees because the manager said Rafaela wasn't White. They came to a compromise; however, they refused to give Rafaela a locker in the women's locker room because the other women would object. She used the staff's one. Unfortunately, bigotry and discrimination will always exist no matter what year it is, past or present, sorry to say.
Dianna
Black Butterflies by Priscilla Morris
This book takes place over about a 10-month period at the beginning of the war in Sarajevo. It is a beautifully-written book which describes the beginning of the Bosnian war (1992-1995). It focuses on the main character Zora, a renowned landscape artist who send her family to England and finds herself trapped in Sarajevo. It is a harrowing tale of what it looked like at the beginning of the conflict and the impact on those who were trapped in the city. I fell in love with the characters in this book and was unable to put it down. I highly recommend.
Joan
One Good Thing by Georgia Hunter
From the author of WE WERE THE LUCKY ONES, a riveting story about the little-known Holocaust in Italy. Beautifully written, this book had me in tears as the main character, Lily, fulfills her best friend’s request to keep Esti’s child safe. The courage Lily finds amazed me.
barbara
After the Party by Lisa Jewell
The story was interesting, but not what I expected from Lisa Jewell. The two main characters, after many years, together and separately, finally realized what they wanted their life to be.
Michelle
Those Who Leave and Those Who Stay by Elena Ferrante
What started off as a very mediocre book series for me, has turned into something entirely different! I think I liked this third book in Ferrante's series the most! Now I can see that the first book was really only the foundation - leading to some in-depth examinations of the main character, Elena. It's introspective as well as philosophical at times about the role of women in society, as wives, mothers, and even the way women are educated compared to men. It also examines class, poverty, and the role that education has in changing both. I also appreciated the complexity of the character's relationships with her friends, husband, and family members. I was not expecting the turn the story took at the end, and I can't say that I liked it.
Linda
Hazelbourne Ladies Motorcycle and Flying Club by Helen Simonson
A glimpse of women adjusting to post-war England, to men returning to 'their' jobs , or injured physically or mentally, to changes in 'class' structuring. Simonson portrays friendship, manners, love, heartache in her usual sympathetic but 'straight on' way. Also, clues about the soon to arrive 'Roaring Twenties' merge with society having to change. "Character, not pedigree" may be the best quote of the book.
Darlene
I Did Warn Her by Sian Gilbert
Great.
Patricia
The Tree Collectors - Tales of Arboreal Obsession by Amy Stewart
Author/illustrator Amy Stewart traveled the world to research the individuals and their tree projects for this most unique collection of "Fifty vignettes of remarkable people whose lives have been transformed by their obsessive passion for trees." Page after page is enhanced by her own watercolor portraits of the collectors and their trees. I plan to reread this comforting and inspiring book on my tree-shaded porch during breaks from gardening. I also highly recommend her Kopp Sisters series about the first woman sheriff in New Jersey.
Cynthia
Martyr by Kaveh Akbar
The writing is strong and the characters intriguing.
Jayme
The Road to Tender Hearts by Annie Hartnett
Hartnett has an amazing ability to combine sorrow and lose with laugh-out-loud humor in this over-the-top story of family, forgiveness and just living. I just added all her books to my TBR - it was that good.
Barb
The Women on Platform Two by Laura Anthony
I have recommended this book to my many book-reading female friends. I was 18 when this story took place and couldn’t have fathomed not having assess to birth control.
Elise
Bug Hollow by Michelle Huneven
An enthralling family story that kept me interested and caring about the characters throughout. The eldest son of the Samuelson family uses the summer before college to find some independence and tragedy ensues. Each member of the family has to deal with the result of that. I found it very compelling. From the author of SEARCH, which I also enjoyed.
Pam
Theo of Golden by Allen Levi
Very uplifting and encouraging book about a man, Theo, who befriends people of the community and shares personal highlights about what he sees in their portraits.
MH
Nobody’s Fool by Harlan Coben
Although I liked this book, I got lost in the three plots that were supposed to connect and couldn’t really identify with the protagonist, a disgraced cop. When the book starts, he awakens covered in blood and holding a knife. The woman beside him is dead. He runs away, without his wallet or ID or without showering off the blood, but somehow isn’t covered in blood when he gets to a police station and somehow gets out of Spain without ID. The ending was also unrealistic with the killer readily confessing.
Rosa
The Book Club for Troublesome Women by Marie Bostwick
It is the 1960s and Margaret Ryan and her neighbors Charlotte, Viv, and Bitsy live in suburban Virginia, in the town of Concordia. Margaret forms a book club with her neighbors and dubs it The Bettys - in honor of Betty Friedan, whose book, THE FEMININE MYSTIQUE, is the first book they discuss. This is a heartwarming and uplifting story of frustration and struggle, bravery and triumph. It's interesting to see how far women have come in this country, yet how much farther there is to go. This is a definite book club pick!
Jayme
As Long as the Lemon Trees Grow by Zoulfa Katouh
This book is an important introduction to the impact that the Syrian Civil War has/had on its innocent civilian population and how the trauma/PTSD of war rages within even after the physical threat of war is over. Though I did have some problems with the stunted, somewhat juvenile feel of the writing style (it is YA after all), the immense value of the book overrides my nitpicking. My heart goes out to the 6 million Syrian refuges who are currently displaced in other countries and the 7 million who are trying to survive in their battle-worn country. May the lemon trees grow forever.
jana
The Letter Carrier by Francesca Giannone
Loved, loved this book!
Melinda
My Friends by Fredrik Backman
I just loved this book, and as I approached the end of the book I read slower because I didn't want it to end.
Emily
When the Cranes Fly South by Lisa Ridzen
Story of the relationship between an elderly man, his dog and his son. Beautifully written with great understanding and sensitivity to the problems of aging.
Sue
Tilt by Emma Pattee
A “big one” hits Portland, OR, and a very pregnant woman makes her way across the city in search of her husband, whom she simultaneously hates and loves.
Sheyla
The Great Reclaimation by Rachel Heng
Good read.
Carolyn
Clete by James Lee Burke
I have many books by James Lee Burke. I always listen to the audiobook just because the narrator, Will Patton, is wonderful. Even though there are some stand-alones, the Dave Robicheaux series, along with his partner, Clete, are by far my favorites. This book, number 24 in the series, focuses on Clete as he and Dave try to thwart a drug smuggling ring. James Lee Burke has a way with words and, to me, he is a master artist at painting a picture you can see and feel.
LisaMarie
The Ghost Writer by Julie Clark
A daughter comes home to write her famous father’s true story of a 1975 horrendous night that happened in their family when his two siblings found dead in their own home. You keep going back-and-forth to wonder, did he really kill his siblings? It kept you on the edge of your seat and you felt like you really knew these people and what they went through.
Kathleen
American Dirt by Jeanine Cummins
Controversial, yes, but I found this a real eye-opener to the struggles many immigrants endure trying to escape their horrific lives. This is a novel, but it rings true with the emotional pursuit of a better life. I was mesmerized and really felt the pain of this mother and son and all the hardships they had to face. There are some questionable parts as to authenticity, but this is a novel after all, and I feel well worth reading if just for personal understanding.
Ivy V
Dark Maestro by Brendan Slocumb
Slocumb once again masterfully intertwines the beloved cello and love of symphonic music in a thrilling mystery of crime, drugs and witness protection. Brilliant storytelling.
Barb
The Shallows by Holly Craig
Good storyline. Nice mystery, just not well written.
Kay
How I Faked My Own Death and Did Not Get Away With It by Harry Gordon
What a ride this book takes you on. Funny, sometimes cringy, but wild nonetheless. I couldn't put this one down.
Anne
The House at Tyneford by Natasha Solomons
Captivating, emotional, and memorable novel that tugs at the heartstrings. Beautifully written with vivid descriptions and wonderful portrayal of characters.
Shelby
The River Is Waiting by Wally Lamb
I'm a Wally Lamb fan and his latest most impressive book did not disappoint. His characters are so well developed and by the end I felt I knew them intimately. This book tells a story about a man, Corby Ledbetter, who caused a soul-crushing tragic accident while under the influence of booze and prescription drugs. Mainly set against the backdrop of the prison system, the novel explores grief, guilt, addiction, and the possibility of redemption. It's a deep dive into the mind and actions of Cory, who is a terribly flawed man with many redeeming qualities. I highly recommend this book.
Joan
The American Queen by Vanessa Miller
Important story, but I found the book in need of editing. (shortening)
Debbie
Real Americans by Rachel Khong
A fast-moving read with good character development. A love story with secrets that is non-mushy with some history portrayed. Suspenseful in the fact the reader wants to understand how and why the main character made the choices she did and how many lives were ruined in the process. Very good!
Simonne
Darker Than the Sky by Matt Tracy
I have been reading this relatively slim book for over a month. I still have about 30 pages to go. I find it just that aggravating that I keep putting it down. The story isn’t bad following a father/son bonding camping trip after the son reveals he is gay, but the father’s (Van) musings are just over the top. Further, he is convinced if he allows himself to be happy a plane crash soon follows and someone he holds dear dies.
Simonne
North of Hope by Jon Hassler
Read by 5 members of my book club with 2 likes, 2 not liking, and one hating it. The story of Frank Healy, whose mom dies when he is quite young. His father shuts himself off and he is basically raised by their housekeeper and the family priest. The housekeeper Eunice tells Frank that his mother’s dying words were that she wanted him to be a priest. He takes these words to heart despite falling in love as a teenager with the beautiful new girl, Libby. Their lives intertwine in and out over the years.
Kathryn
The God of the Woods by Liz Moore
I sank into this book for 4 days, keeping a log in my journal of all the characters; there are many. The story of a wealthy family, and several generations, who will go to any lengths to save the family reputation, even if it involves destroying other people. It made me think of one of today's prominent families and how crazy it all gets. Characters are full, fleshed-out, and I played the setting in my mind as a movie.
Luella
Midnight on the Potomac by Scott Ellsworth
Was an excellent read. The story takes place the last year of the Civil War. Was heartbreaking to hear the stories of courage, pain and suffering of wartime. It had new information and accounts of what really happened.
Shelley
Killers of a Certain Age by Deanna Raybourn
This is an entertaining book about retired female assassins who band together to kill and protect themselves from their former employer. The story is improbable and somewhat gruesome, but I found myself admiring the main characters and their strong survival instincts. I would recommend this to mystery lovers who want something lighter and less puzzling than most.
Cindy
The Guest Cottage by Lori Foster
What do you do when your unfaithful, almost ex-husband dies before the divorce is complete? You move on with your life, right? Well it’s not that easy when his mistress hunts you down to ask for help raising his baby. Convoluted? Yes! Great book about relationships, hardships and forgiveness.
Sheree
The River Is Waiting by Wally Lamb
This book was a page-turner! I had heard that the book is dark, and it is, but the story was so interesting that it was hard to put down. It is so sad to think that our prison systems are like this! It was an enjoyable read.
Julia
The God of the Woods by Liz Moore
This is a great read for this time of year. Its the story of a summer camp where several years ago the child of the camp's owners went missing and was never found. Then present-day, the daughter of the same camp owners disappears as well. It's a mystery that kept me turning the pages till the last page.
Edie
Wish You Were Here by Jodi Picoult
Very good! Every book she writes is a lesson to be learned!
Karen
A Woman of No Importance by Sonia Purnell
Virginia Hall was an American spy during WWII. She was one of the best, even though she had a wooden leg from the time she was 27 from a hunting accident. She led countless numbers of fighting men in occupied France and earned the respect of them all. She dealt with double agents, Nazis, and had to prove herself over and over. She planned and carried out train derailments, bridge explosions, and the saving of many soldiers.
Nancy
Jill is Not Happy by Kaira Rouda
I wasn’t expecting some of the twists in the book.
Donna
The First Gentleman by Bill Clinton and James Patterson
Maddy Wright is the President of the United States and her husband, Cory, is on trial for the murder of a long ago girlfriend. He was a college football star and played with the Patriots until his knee was injured. The old girlfriend was a Patriots cheerleader. Maddy is caught between world crises popping up and defending her husband.
Susan
The Page Turner by Viola Shipman
I usually like his books but this one was a slow read. Emma comes from a family who owns a publishing company and she has secretly written a book that she knows they wouldn’t approve of. Then some events happen that have her wondering about her family and their lives.
Kelly
The Audition by Katie Kitamura
Interesting story, but not my favorite. I listened to the audiobook and did appreciate the narrator. The book was well written. I just had a hard time understanding what the family was hoping for.
Elizabeth
The Busybody Book Club by Freya Sampson
Enjoyed it. Several twists.
Jeanne
According to My Science by Jen Sinclair
ACCORDING TO MY SCIENCE by Jen Sinclair is an absolutely delightful, well-written story about a quirky, nerdy but lovable scientist named Elle who looks into stars. Life throws her a curveball when an unexpected encounter with a man named Ben, who just so happens to be the President of the United States. Their connection and attraction was instant and magnifying. I’m not kidding; this book has it all, including surprises, twists and turns, romance and humor. The author knocked it out of the park with this book. I loved every single page. I received a copy of this book from the author and have to thank her for sending me a new all-time favorite book of mine. I can’t recommend reading it highly enough.
Monica
The Doorman by Chris Pavone
This book, like all of Chris Pavone's books, is fast-paced, witty, and highly entertaining. The book takes place in a little over 24 hours, and the characters are tied to a fancy New York City apartment building. I thoroughly enjoyed this book!
Laura
The Friday Afternoon Club by Griffin Dunne
This was an excellent memoir. This was a story about Griffin Dunne and his family. It was about growing up in New York and Hollywood. Yes, there is a lot of celebrity names dropped throughout, but it was so much more. It was about his interesting family coping with alcohol, mental and physical illness and murder. This told with love, respect and some hate, too. Griffin Dunne’s career was not really known to me, but I’m so glad I listened to it.
Donna
A Minute to Midnight by David Baldacci
I am not one to read series books because I get lost. I like to mix it up, yet this Atlee Pine series by Mr. Baldacci is very captivating. The books have several pages, too, which is another thing I shy away from with books. However, again, I am definitely reading them fast. It is like 4 books of suspense and I love it. It also is easy enough to keep up with as I grab another book in between. Atlee's story is fascinating and with the FBI this girl gets into all kinds of stuff. Get this series and enjoy. I am!
Raylene
The Mistress of Auschwitz by Terrence Williamson
It remains such a horrendous and shocking time. When I taught, I invited a survivor of the extermination camps to talk to my students which was remarkable for me and them.
Deborah
In Order to Live by Yeonmi Park with Maryanne Vollers
Excellent book about escaping from North Korea with her mother. The sister left first and they did not know her fate but knew they had to try to escape. Many harrowing risks, even when arriving in China. Details about life in North Korea growing up prior to escaping.
Erin
How To Solve Your Own Murder by Kristen Perrin
No wonder this was one of the best mystery thrillers in 2024! This novel offers a fun, interesting story about Frances Adams, a woman haunted by a prophecy made at an English country fair in 1965, that she will one day be murdered. The narrative has two different timelines: Frances’s lifelong quest to prevent her demise, and the present-day investigation led by her great-niece Annie Adams, who is forced to unravel the truth after Frances’s death decades later. One of the book’s pros is its unique premise. A character spending her life trying to avoid a murder that hasn’t happened yet is a compelling psychological theme rarely seen in traditional mysteries. Overall, this mystery novel is an engaging exploration of fate and family loyalty.
Erin
Gang Way: The Brotherhood by Emma Clark
I received an ARC from a giveaway. Here’s my thoughts on it: The story revolves around a character named Lorenzo, who is a murder suspect. The plot starts after he agrees to a jailhouse meeting with Lia Miller, a psychology major. I thought Lia was an interesting character, but annoying and melodramatic. As Lia and Lorenzo interact, their relationship kept me on my toes. But the real kicker is the evil beneath the surface of some characters. Later in the book, I got chills from the story twists and turns. This book has a good mix of psychological suspense and kept me guessing. The Scorpio crime group, led by the dangerous Enzo adds a thrilling layer to the plot.
Rita
The Plot by Jean Hanff Korelitz
Jacob Finch Bonner wrote his first novel and it was fairly successful. Jacob wasn't discouraged by the fact it didn't make the Oprah's book favorite or any one else's. He went on to write two more books that fell flat. Jacob decided to spend one summer teaching a MFA program at a local college in order to make some money while still writing. He mentored some of his students, while one of his students didn't want Jacob's help. His name was Evan Parker and from that point on Jacob's life changed. This novel keeps you trying to figure out where the author is taking you. Wonderful read.
Jonell
Kate & Frida by Kim Fay
Lovely book about a friendship developed through letters. Such a lovely look into the support of friendship as the characters grow and process the beauty and ugliness of life - especially in their precious 20s.
Luella
Carpet Diem by George Bradley
Interesting book. Part memoir and part book with solid information regarding rugs, their histories, etc.
Nancy
The Briar Club by Kate Quinn
Loved it!
Carol
The Jackal’s Mistress by Chris Bohjalian
A book of humanity during a time of great inhumanity. The characters are richly drawn: the strong young woman trying to keep her life and family business together while her husband is off at war, the spunky orphaned teen who is observant and wise beyond her years, the army captain surviving horrific war injuries, and the free slave couple who provide a strong backbone for this raggedy “family” are all wonderfully drawn in this book.
Sandy
Weyward by Emilia Hart
Very good!
Jay
Journeys Home: Inspiring Stories, Plus Tips and Strategies to Find Your Family History by Andrew McCarthy
Enjoyable little stories by a variety of modern writers about tracing their roots and visiting the places their ancestors came from.
Kathy
Isola by Allegra Goodman
ISOLA is a novel based on an actual 16th century noblewoman. Like the novel TOUGH LUCK by Sandra Dallas that I also read recently, it has themes of love, resilience, and survival as the characters complete their journeys. In ISOLA, Marguerite is orphaned as were the children in Dallas novel. She and her lover and her maid are abandoned on a remote island. The author then portrays Marguerite not as nobility but rather as a survivalist, and this amazed me. Her determination and fortitude helped her find food and shelter, as well as safety. The bear event was graphic, and author Goodman takes the reader into the action as Marguerite refuses to concede. I highly recommend this book to those who seek a strong female character who evolves.
Elizabeth
Uncommon Type by Tom Hanks
There was nostalgia shot through all the stories but some just didn't work. I've always liked Tom Hanks as an actor, but his discussions of women in these stories felt sexist to me, though I doubt he viewed them that way.
Sharon
When We Had Wings by Ariel Lawton, Kristina McMorris and Susan Meissner
Set in WWII in the Philipines, the story tells of three nurses (Army and Navy) who are captured and incarcerated by the Japanese, and during the incarceration are forced to continue to serve as nurses even as they are starved and live in terrible conditions. A moving, sad, but ultimately victorious story.
Sharon
The Maid's Secret by Nita Prose
A delightful continuation of the story of Molly the Maid as she and Juan plan their wedding, find trinkets around Molly's apartment that they hope to sell to get enough money to buy some wedding clothes for the service that will be held at the hotel. There's one of Molly's grandmother's trinkets that Juan suggests they sell, but Molly says it's worth nothing. Only...it is!!!
Gabriel
The Baby Dragon Cafe by A. T. Qureshi
The stakes were non-existent, and there was very little to the plot. Any tension between the main characters - even things that could have a major impact on them or their relationship - is casually brushed away within pages of being introduced. The romance is slow-burn, but not in the sense that they gradually fall in love; it’s insta-love that is stalled out by the childish insistence “there’s no way these obvious signs they like me means they like me,” and Saphira’s refusal to make a move even when she knows Aiden returns her feelings. The fantasy worldbuilding consists of swapping dogs for dragons and giving them prestige value to the aristocracy. There’s nothing interesting to the dragons themselves or the world around them.
Elizabeth
The Red Lotus by Chris Bohjaian
A great thriller that takes you to Vietnam on a bike tour where murder is committed, then back to the States to figure out who did it. The lies that unfold and the search for an answer made for a book I couldn't put down.
Bethany
The Great Circle by Maggie Shipstead
My book club was mixed on this book, but I thought the parallel story of two women who are connected and each trying to figure out who she is was extremely good.
Kathleen
Framed by John Grisham and Jim McCloskey
Disturbing - sad for those incarcerated who were innocent and infuriating that injustice is perpetrated by those who are supposed to know better.
Pam
Tell Me What You Did by Carter Wilson
Twisty thriller about a podcaster who interviews people and asks them, "Tell me what you did?" Then they confess a crime. The podcaster herself, though, is hiding her own crime. Unlikable character and plot that required too much suspension of disbelief.
Pam
None of this is True by Lisa Jewell
Entertaining but very disturbing thriller about a true crime podcaster who meets her "birthday twin" with dark secrets. Then her life becomes very dangerous.
Pam
What You Leave Behind by Wanda Morris
Book was slow and I couldn't get engaged with the characters.
Pam
The Stolen Life of Colette Marceau by Kristin Harmel
Dual timeline historical fiction/mystery starting in 1940s Paris and ending up in contemporary United States, about mother/daughter jewel thieves whose code is to steal from the cruel and give to the needy.
Mary A
The Clinic by Cate Quinn
This book takes you into the world of luxury rehabilitation to solve a murder. It is engaging and has several twists to keep you interested throughout.
Beth
The Ghostwriter by Julie Clark
An author who is a highly experienced ghostwriter is so hard up for money that she takes a ghostwriting job with her father, a successful horror writer from whom she has been estranged for many years. For most of his life, he's carried around a mystery. Now, he says, he wants to finally come clean as he nears the end of his life. Vincent Taylor has requested that Olivia, in particular, be his ghostwriter. He wants her to know the truth as to whether he really did kill his brother and sister when he was a teenager. But Olivia does not simply take his word for it. Plus, she finds that his own writings on this subject are unintelligible. So she really has her work cut out for her putting together all the pieces to this puzzle.
Luella
Twisted Prey by John Sandford
Great read. Action packed and twists and turns. Definitely keeps your attention.
Abby
The People We Keep by Allison Larkin
It was difficult to review this book. I did not like the main character for the first half of the book. It's a coming-of-age story of a 16-year-old who is left on her own and her attempts to make it as a singer/songwriter in the 1990s. As the character begins to mature a bit and meets some interesting people along the way, the story improved for me and I found myself rooting for April.
Diane
The Story She Left Behind by Patti Callahan Henry
This author is very descriptive and blends romance and mystery fluently.
Linda
The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
I listened to this on Audible and I'm so glad I did. I am also a letter writer. This is Virginia’s first book and she did a wonderful job giving us a glimpse into Sybil’s life during her last years. I was in tears as the book came to a close. I highly recommend you reading and reviewing this book. I know you will love it too.
Kathryn
Magic Hour by Kristin Hannah
The storyline of a wild girl from the Northwest woods intrigued me. This is my second Kristin Hannah read (the first was THE WOMEN, so good). I have to say she is an awesome writer and storyteller. It was a great read and I look forward to reading more of her work.
Lynda
Homeseeking by Karissa Chen
This a sweeping saga of an historical novel with multiple timelines. It tells a story of impossible choices made for the sake of survival during China's Civil War and the resulting missed opportunities and regret. Heart-wrenching.
Teresa
The Sound of Light by Sarah Sundin
A very moving book that reminds me of reading Lois Lowry’s NUMBER THE STARS with my 6th grade students. It’s frightening to read of SS thugs grabbing people off the streets and invading homes to force people into vehicles and send them away to who-knows-where. Imagine living in a world where people are send to concentration camps, no habeas corpus, no warrant for arrest, etc. And the citizens feeling helpless to do anything. Oh, wait, that’s happening here in the U.S. now...
Pam
The Life Cycle of the Common Octopus by Emma Knight
Beautifully-written literary coming-of-age novel about motherhood, family, friendship, and finding your own way in life. I wanted to savor every word of this rich, character-driven book set against the metaphor of the octopus who carries its babies and sacrifices its life as the babies literally eat it alive before they are born. Terrific audio narration by Saskia Maarleveld.
Pam
It's a Love Story by Annabel Monaghan
4.5 rounded up to 5 stars. Sweet love story with a main character who is witty and snarky, and just darned funny! This one is about overcoming your insecurities and feeling worthy of love. It made me laugh and touched my heart. Very satisfying ending. Audio narrator Hilary Huber nailed the hilarity, the insecurities, and the pathos.
Pam
Three Days in June by Anne Tyler
THREE DAYS IN JUNE is an absolutely lovely, heartwarming book laced with humor and filled with endearing, empathetic characters. The Minneapolis Tribune said Tyler's novel is "like reading a hug", and I fully agree. I didn't even know I needed a hug, but I certainly appreciated this one. Definitely a comfort read for me. Pitch-perfect audio narration by J. Smith-Cameron.
Pam
Banned Together: Our Fight for Readers' Rights by Ashley Hope Perez (editor)
Remarkable anthology with a mix of poetry, essays, short stories, and graphic essays that powerfully makes the case against censorship of books for young adults, and shows the power of literature to build empathy, critical thinking skills, and understanding. Books literally save lives.
Pam
Good Dirt by Charmaine Wilkerson
"There are no words to capture the meaning of a person's life." Charmaine Wilkerson (BLACK CAKE) blew me away with the power and beauty of her multi-generational novel about a wealthy Black family whose history was rooted in slavery. I was hooked immediately by this riveting story and by characters that I came to know and love! The audiobook was brilliantly narrated with emotion and nuance by January LaVoy.
Pam
Murder Takes a Vacation by Laura Lippman
When Mrs. Blossom finds a winning lottery ticket in a parking lot and decides to take her best friend on a cruise through France, she doesn't expect to attract the attention of art thieves and the prime suspect of the FBI. She knows from experience that widows of a certain age and size become invisible, and uses that to investigate and clear her name. Now that I've experienced the charm and comfort of cozy mysteries, I will definitely follow the antics of this delightfully smart, elderly sleuth on any and all future adventures! Thanks to author Laura Lippman and narrator Kimberly Farr for striking the perfect balance of action, mystery and humor!
Rose
The Last Carolina Girl by Meagan Church
A tragic story of a young girl who was mistreated by her adopted family. After her mother died in childbirth, Leah and her father, Harley, bond over nature. They live near the Barnas family, and Leah and Jesse become very close. Leah often has seizures which cause her to freeze for several moments. When Harley dies in a freak accident, Leah is sent to live with a foster family, the Griffins. Mrs. Griffin is cruel and unfeeling towards Leah, and eventually takes her to a doctor for an operation. This is a disturbing time in our history, and highlights some of the cruelty that this country did to citizens who others deemed unworthy. A beautifully-written story.
Rose
Parents Weekend by Alex Finlay
3 of 5 stars. During parents' weekend at Santa Clara University, several families gather to visit with their children. When the children don't arrive for dinner, the families are concerned. It becomes evident that one of the children, Natasha, is missing. The other 5 friends swear secrecy as to what happened the night she disappeared. As the investigation evolves, there is an app that accuses some of the students of suspicious behavior. The scene gets re-enacted with disastrous results.
This wasn't one of my favorites of his novels.
Rose
The Summer That Changed Everything by Brenda Novak
Lucy's father was sentenced to prison for murder. He claims innocence for at least one of the murders. Surprised by this, Lucy returns to the town where it happened to research the circumstances and to prove her father's innocence. She joins up with her teen love, Ford, who abandoned her at the urging of his family years earlier. Now, they work together to address the discrepancies in the investigation into the triple murders. Their investigation leads to real results, but puts their lives in danger. A bit romance, a bit thriller, this was an engaging story.
Luella
Let's Make a Scene by Laura Wood
Great read. Well written, interesting story that keeps your attention. Enemies to lovers times two.
Donna
Roll the Sun Across the Sky by Barbara Linn Probst
When I saw ROLL THE SUN ACROSS THE SKY by Barbara Linn Probst described for fans of THE PAPER PALACE and TOM LAKE, I knew I had to read it. I must say Arden Rice, the protagonist, is one of the most cruel and unlikable characters whom I have ever encountered. And, I was totally against almost all of her decisions, yet I felt sorry for her. We are all imperfect and make mistakes throughout our lives, but, hopefully, learn from them and move on. Arden never seemed to realize that she was repeating mistake after mistake. That being said, this was an interesting, thought-provoking read dealing with mother-daughter relationships and finding self-forgiveness. A beautifully-written book for those who enjoy family drama.
Rita
Such A Fun Age by Kiley Reid
Good storyline. Good characters and well developed. Fast, easy read. Fun! A little bit predictable.
Dianne
Never Lie by Freida McFadden
Story is full of stereotyped, one dimensional characters with a predictable storyline. As I read this book, I could not help but think perhaps it was written by artificial intelligence.
Christine
The Best Worst Thing by Lauren Okie
I really like this story. Very romantic.
Roxanne
Kate & Frida by Kim Fay
Enchanting book of letters between a bookseller in Seattle and a fledgling war reporter recently relocated in Paris, who travels to Sarajevo during the height of the conflict, and the bombing of the city library. Personal and professional difficulties as well as new friendships and projects arise and their deepening friendship flourishes. I truly loved this book.
Judy
Funny Story by Emily Henry
Read for book club. Okay but lots of drama.
Bliss
The Marriage Portrait by Maggie O'Farrell
I read this book for book club. The author developed the characters to establish my investment in the storyline. I was not as interested in the events and endless drama.
Dianna
The City and Its Uncertain Walls by Haruki Murakami
I liked it. It was just hard to understand all of it.
Kelly
So Far Gone by Jess Walter
This was an excellent read! I actually listened to the audiobook. The characters were well developed and I really cared about them through the novel. From the grandfather who went off the grid to live in the woods to the adult daughter who ran away from home to attend a concert with her former boyfriend, the twists and turns were many and I found myself laughing out loud. There is a wild ending.
MaryJo
King of Ashes by S. A. Cosby
Best of his books yet. Every offering points out how many minority citizens are put in a position to commit “shady” acts to navigate life.
jane
How to Read a Book by Monica Wood
This is a story of a young woman who is paroled from prison and tried to make her life after. She was in a prison-sponsored book club and finds comfort in books after her release.
Joyce
Under the Southern Sky by Kristy Woodson Harvey
I’m in my summer beach read mode! I read this after completing the Lobster Bay series by Meredith Summers. I love finding new (to me) authors and getting caught up on their work. Thank you, Bookreporter.com and their specialized newsletters for providing reliable book information.
gina
The Sisters by Jonas Hassen Khemiri
Very different sibling immigrant story taking place in Sweden. Are we who we think we are or who our family wants or needs us to be?
Karen
The Paris Novel by Ruth Reichl
I may be biased as I love Paris, but I loved how this author described the food, clothing and atmosphere of this beautiful city. The author's descriptions made you feel like you were right there with the characters. It felt like a love letter to Paris and an enjoyable read.
Robin
Hotter in the Hamptons by Tinx
Awful. Couldn't care less about the story, the way it was told. Just awful.
Denise
On the Hunt by Kerry J. Donovan
We follow Danny this time in a situation he felt was unfinished and needed to be addressed from the previous book. The gang comes together to help another innocent person from an impossible situation. But this time it's not related to the 83 crash. There are some crazy twists and turns. Not all good. Bring the Kleenex.
Priscilla
The Spy Coast by Tess Gerritsen
One of the best mysteries I have read in a long time. The character development was wonderful. I can’t wait to read the sequel, THE SUMMER GUESTS.
Mary Ann
Tilt by Emma Pattee
This book was great, but if you fear earthquakes you shouldn't read it!
Betty
The One-In-A-Million Boy by Monica Wood
I have enjoyed all of Monica Wood's books.
Kathy
Medicine River by Mary Annette Pember
A deep and enlightening look at the Indian boarding schools through the eyes of the daughter of a survivor. While sometimes difficult to read, it is definitely worth the effort and time.
Susan
The Tenant by Freida McFadden
This is another fast-paced, exciting psychological thriller by one of my favorite authors. This book held my interest waiting for her usual twist at the end. It's not her best book, but it's still an easy, quick and fun book to read.
Joanne
Angels Fall by Nora Roberts
Re-read for me, but I picked up many details that I missed the first time around (some 10 or so years ago). Classic Nora Roberts.
Carol
The Ghostwriter by Julie Clark
Entertaining and a fast read. I enjoyed the mystery.
Carol
The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
Epistolary writing style telling the story of an aging woman and her relationships. Very good but sad.
Carol
Badlands by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child
Interesting story which includes indigenous folklore. Great story, very fast read and highly entertaining.
Rose
The Librarian of Burned Books by Brianna Labuskes
I loved this book as it is so relevant to our world today. Sadly, people are not learning from the past, but perhaps by reading this book they may understand better how people are marginalized by a dictator who controls the books, the arts, the media, and the culture. This book follows a woman in NYC, Vivian Childs, who wants to send books to the soldiers in WWII, but is met with resistance from a senator. As she seeks to gain support for her cause, she meets a librarian, Hannah Brech, who had lived in Germany during the early years of Hitler, but fled to Paris and then NYC. Finally, there is American author, Althea James, who is invited to participate in a cultural exchange program in Germany. These three women tell a powerful story.
Luella
Ocean Prey by John Sandford
Great read. Plenty of action, suspense and humor.
Rose
Swept Away by Beth O'Leary
After a one-night stand on a houseboat, Zeke and Lexi awake to find that the boat has drifted out to sea. They have to figure out how to survive with very little on board, and also how to cooperate with each other. They find a friend in Eugene, a seagull. A cute romance inside of a stressful situation.
Luella
The Red Queen by Martha Grimes
Great book. Was amusing, very entertaining.
Tessa
The Santa Klaus Murder by Mavis Doriel Hay
This is a classic locked-room mystery. There are plenty of suspects, not only family members, but two male guests, as well as Sir Osmond’s private secretary and other staff members. I was engaged and interested throughout.
Rose
The Love Haters by Katherine Center
I really enjoy Katherine Center's romances. They are funny and I smile as I read them. Katie is facing a possible firing as a video producer. To save her career, she accepts a job interviewing a Coast Guard rescue swimmer hero, Hutch, who is the brother of her co-worker, Cole. Katie lies and says she can swim, and takes the job. She meets Rue, the "aunt" of Hutch and Cole, and is enchanted by her spunk and charm. She hears the story of the brothers and how they came to live with Rue. Hutch and Kate are great together. An enjoyable romance.
Sharon
House of Glass by Sarah Pekkanen
A thriller that was twisted. A murder of a nanny and a family member trying to blame it on a child. Child advocate Stella Hudson got to know the child and protected her. Great book.
Rose
Home of the American Circus by Allison Larkin
This is an emotionally heartbreaking novel. It is a story of a broken family, a woman, Freya, who is down on her luck, and her relationships with family and friends. Freya left for Maine years earlier, but after an emergency she can't pay rent and returns to her hometown of Somers, NY. She has inherited her family home, which is falling apart. She finds her 16-year-old niece, Aubrey, squatting in the house. Aubrey believes Freya abandoned her. Freya works to build trust with Aubrey while also rekindling old friendships. It is a journey of discovery and self-realization. A very raw story.
Rose
The Love Fix by Jill Shalvis
Perhaps if I had read the other books in the series, I would have liked this book more. It was overall enjoyable. Lexi is asked to come home by her stepsister, Ashley, to deliver letters for their late mother. Lexi doesn't want to go since she has been angry with her mother for depleting her college fund years earlier. To make matters worse, Heath, her childhood nemesis, is the executor of the will, and comes along for the ride. Of course, Heath is now gorgeous and Lexi has a crush on him. It is an enemies-to-lovers story with a nice reveal of her mother's life.
Sylvia
The Jackal's Mistress by Chris Bohjalian
I loved this book and read it in one day. I like historical fiction, and this is inspired by a friendship across enemy lines.
Marcia
Part of Your World by Abby Jimenez
Daniel and Ali meet and there's an instant attraction. But their worlds are so different. She's been raised in a wealthy family with maids and cooks, etc. He's from a small village, raised by his grandparents because his mother was 17 when he was born and she left home as soon as she could.
Judith
Don't Let Him In by Lisa Jewell
This book is such a great read and is a typical Lisa Jewell thriller.
Rose
The Reformatory by Tananarive Due
Based on the Dozier School for Boys, and one of the author's relatives, this historical fiction novel set in the 1950s, tells the story of 12-year-old black Robbie Stephens, Jr. Robbie is sent to the Gracetown School for Boys after kicking the son of a wealthy landowner in retaliation for his taunts about Robbie's older sister, Gloria. Gloria fights for Robbie's release from the reformatory, and gains the help of others in the community. The treatment of these boys is further enhanced by the ghosts that haunt the school. Robbie sees the "haints", which reveal the truth about the reformatory and what is happening. Boys are mistreated and go missing. This is a story of family love during a very dark time in the U.S.'s history.
Marcia
How to Solve Your Own Murder by Kristen Perrin
When Frances is told by a fortune teller at 16 that she will be murdered, she spends her life trying to figure out who will murder her.
Shelley
The Briar Club by Kate Quinn
Great characters.
Pauline
The Book Club for Troublesome Women by Marie Bostwick
Reading THE FEMININE MYSTIQUE challenges these women of the 1960s to re-look at the life they are living and start making some changes.
Pattie
The Emperor of Gladness by Ocena Vuong
Poetic and spectacular. Lots to think about.
Sandra
Here One Moment by Liane Moriarty
Different premise but very intriguing.
Wanda
The Sorority by Nancy Bush
This brings one back to high school days and having watched the cliques in your class. It keeps you guessing from the start if the crime foretold really happened the way it did, or if it was murder...and if it was murder, which one did actually do it. Page-turner. Good thriller.
Rita
I See You've Called In Dead by John Kenney
At first the title caught my attention so I bought the book. When I first started reading it I wondered what is going on and why is the author giving me all these stats. I sure am glad I didn't just put this book down and call it a "DNF." After the first two chapters things picked up, including the giggles and gasps that the book gave me. This book is not morbid but it also opened my eyes to how important living your best life is. Glad I read this book!
Kristine
The Mighty Red by Louise Erdrich
Wow! I’m back and forth between 4 and 5 stars - I guess I’ll say 4.5 rounded up! I loved this story that gave me BEARTOWN vibes! The chapters float back and forth between the main characters (Crystal, Hugo, Gary, and Kismet) and their families. It does take a minute to situate yourself between the characters but then, what a great ride - heartbreaking at times but also full of humor and connection! North Dakota is an area that I’m unfamiliar with so I always enjoy Erdrich’s books to learn more about the geography and the culture. My only complaint was the ending - honestly, I probably need to re-read it because I didn’t understand it that well. It was part of the story but more about the environmental issues brought up within the story.
Elizabeth
Miss Morgan's Book Brigade by Janet Skeslien Charles
A dual timeline story taking place during WWI and the late 1980s. It follows the experiences of the women who aided villagers in Northern France during World War I and a young librarian researching their experiences as she pursues a library degree in the late 1980s.
Rebecca
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon
This is an excellent example of historical fiction, made even more interesting by the fact that THE FROZEN RIVER is based on the actual notes of Maine resident Martha Ballard. We meet this midwife as a mother during the late 1800s. She is an intelligent, strong woman with the challenge of living during a time of male dominance in all aspects of life. A mystery evolves as a body is found in the frozen river, and Martha is enlisted to determine death's cause. It was extremely easy for the reader to get caught up in the lives of each character, and feelings of empathy, inspiration, disgust, curiosity, and finally shock evolve as the mystery is resolved.
Rosemary
The Names by Florence Knapp
An abused wife must register the name of her newborn son. Her husband wants the boy named after him. She prefers another name while her daughter suggests another one. The book follows what might happen if each of the names is given to the child, in 7-year increments. Each story is different in his growth, home life and careers. This is a fascinating tale! Can one's name make that much of a difference? Apparently, it can. I could not put it down, stayed up late to finish it and recommened it to several friends!!
Rose
The Fourth Wife by Linda Hamilton
In the 19th Century, Mormons were permitted to engage in polygamy. When Hazel believes that the love of her life, Elijah, has abandoned her, she agrees to become the fourth wife of Jacob. Seems simple enough, except Hazel begins having dreams of Elijah accompanied by nightmares about her new life. Jacob claims these women as his property and subjects them to his will. There is also a mystery of what happened to the missing wife, ghostly experiences, and how the sister wives must work together to break the spell. Presented as Gothic Mormon, this is creepy while highlighting the abuses and terrors of wives living under this marriage rule. Based on history and tales from the author's own family, it is a compelling tale of feminism.
Rose
Six Days in Bombay by Alka Joshi
Set in the 1930s in a hospital in Bombay, young 23-year-old nurse Sona meets a painter, Mira. She is intrigued by her and starts a friendship with the charismatic painter. But, when Mira dies, Sona is tasked with delivering paintings to Mira's friends. Sona departs on a journey taking her across Europe where she finds the secrets of Mira's past, as well as a new beginning for herself. This is a story of growth and discovery, of being empowered and taking control of one's life. I really enjoy Alka Joshi's stories. They help me to learn a bit about a culture I know very little about. This is before India gained independence from British rule.
Sonia
Jill Is Not Happy by Kaira Rouda
Interesting tale of ending a relationship. Kept me wondering if everyone gets what they want.
Kimiko
The Ghostwriter by Julie Clark
In the summer of 1975, 2 of 3 children in the Taylor family are brutally slain. Everyone thinks the middle child, Vincent, did the killings but nothing is ever proven (having an alibi), and the murderer is never found. Fast forward to 2024 and Vincent Taylor is dying. He commissions his daughter, Olivia Dumont, who spent most of her childhood living in boarding schools in another country, to ghostwrite the story of what happened back in 1975. Olivia takes on the job only because she is broke, owes money to a lot of people and is about to lose her beloved home. In the course of her "investigation", she uncovers a great deal about herself, her family and the legacy her father leaves behind.
Lonnie
Secrets of the Lost Ledgers by C. J. Archer
This is Book 5 in The Glass Library series. I really love this series that I would describe as magical realism plus historical fiction. It's set in London in the years after World War I.
Mitra
The View from Lake Como by Adriana Trigiani
A book about an Italian family who lived for three generations in Sourh Belmar, and was so true to life. I lived for a while in a community a bit north of there, and the family and their interactions rang very true. The heroine has grown up there, married and divorced a boy she went to school with and has not traveled abroad. She works for her uncle in a marble business, which imports marble from Carrara in Tuscany, Italy. She decides to go there after her uncle dies and finds out more about herself and her mother's family. There are several twists in the story, and an FBI investigation, which feels a bit redundant, (which is why it is 4 stars an but maybe gives her more impetus to be away for a bit and learn about the marble quarrying.)
Beth
The Power and the Glory by Graham Greene
THE POWER AND THE GLORY is gloomy but interesting because it is historical fiction. There really was a time in Mexico when conditions were as described here, when the Catholic Church was outlawed. Several priests in Mexico were executed and have since been declared saints. Unfortunately, I found the writing too simplistic. Therefore, it was difficult for me to read; my mind tended to wander and I would have to reread frequently. But this book has been in circulation since 1940. It has obviously appealed to a great many others.
Caryl
Lady of Shadows by Jill Williamson and Kelly Fernlake
I loved this speculative novel!
Caryl
Bookshop by the Sea by Denise Hunter
Hunter has crafted an exquisite masterpiece. I enjoyed visiting charming Piper's Cove. These characters will linger long after turning the final page.
Rose
Playground by Richard Powers
This novel is basically a love letter to the oceans and sea life, with some controversy. Told in four voices, each of the characters has ties to the ocean and they meet on the island of Makatea in French Polynesia. The story follows the characters over their lives, their loves, and their heartaches. Hopefully, we can protect the waters of the earth and use money for good.
Ruthanne
An Italian Girl in Brooklyn by Santa Montefiore
This is the first book I have read by this author and I will definitely read more. She tells a good story with s surprising twist. Kept me wanting to finish the book. The story is about a young woman in Italy before WWII and her loves and life turns.
Evelyn
Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Very good space story with a very real love story.
Aida
All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr
Interesting book but long.
Debbie
The Wager by David Grann
A journey into history illustrates the degrees men go to prove their masculinity. THE WAGER displays so many aspects of maritime life in the 1740s. David Grann meticulously reconstructs the fateful journey of The Wager that shipwrecked in the Patagonian Islands and the events that followed the doomed crew. Grann covers all the men and their jobs aboard the ship. An amazing, and sometimes tedious, exploration of life on a ship. Grann also gives minute description of each of the crew. Life on a ship constantly battles the elements and the long, hard trip with very little break in the monotony. Not an ideal life.
Debbie
River Gold by Jeff Nania
After reading many of William Kent Krueger’s novels, RIVER GOLD proved again and again, other writers do not compare to Krueger’s writing style. RIVER GOLD by Jeff Nania bored me immensely. Nania used first person narrative and spent too much time in dialogue. So many meaningless characters that did not further the story. In one chapter, Marie Bennett, explains something to the Sheriff, John Cabrelli, concerning her friend, Hugh Olsen, and says “we were both widows.” Not possible as one is a widow and the other is a widower. That faux pas ruined the book for me. Then, the last few chapters focus on an event in the 1860s and this discussion lasted too long. Too little attention is given to the setting.
Anita
The Book Woman's Daughter by Kim Michele Richardson
This was a wonderful sequel to the book THE BOOK WOMAN OF TROUBLESOME CREEK. Honey Lovett is Cussy Mary's daughter who was a Kentucky Pack Horse Librarian. When her mother and father are imprisoned, she decides to take over this job. The people who love books are very thrilled to have her doing this job. This was a novel based on fact, and it was an excellent read.
jana
One Golden Summer by Carley Fortune
Loved, loved this book. I wish I read the previous one to go with it, but it had me swooning for Charlie and Alice.
Caryl
From Sky to Sky by Amanda G. Stevens
Stevens has crafted an exquisite masterpiece! I was immediately drawn into the drama. Twists and turns kept me turning the pages. These characters will linger long after turning the final page.
Caryl
Guilty Until Innocent by Robert Whitlow
Whitlow has crafted an engaging masterpiece. I was immediately immersed into the drama. Twists and turns kept me turning the pages. I so appreciated the spiritual truths woven throughout this story. These characters will linger long after turning the final page.
Rose
The Favorites by Layne Fargo
An interesting look at the world of elite athletes and what they will do to win. Katarina Shaw and Heath Rocha have been together since they were children, bonding at the ice rink. Heath is a foster child, and Kat and Heath form a deep friendship. They begin skating together and are an ice dancing pair. Kat has wanted to be an Olympic champion since she saw her idol, Sheila Lin, win the gold. Kat and Heath are chosen to attend the Lin training school and hone their skills. They give up everything to train. Now, 10 years after their Olympic Games, a documentary is being written to tell the story of them. It is an emotional story of striving for a dream, while overcoming many obstacles. I really enjoyed the book.
Rose
I Would Die For You by Sandie Jones
Nicole has been hiding a secret from her husband, Brad, for 25 years. But, when a woman knocks on her door asking about the downfall of the popular band, Secret Oktober, and later, when their daughter, Hannah, goes missing, she knows the secret she has been keeping will come to light. 25 years earlier, Nicole's sister, Cassie, was a rabid fan of the band, and especially Ben Edwards. Cassie was obsessed with Ben and believed he felt the same about her. But, he was really interested in her sister, Nicole, and that was unacceptable to Cassie. This started a chain of events which Nicole hasn't been able to shake. The end left me unsatisfied.
Christina
The Lies They Told by Ellen Marie Wiseman
This was an incredible read. I was not familiar with this horrific practice of trying to steal land from people who had settled there for centuries as well as what occurred when women and children was essentially stolen from their families under the guise of eugenics. I enjoyed reading about life in the mountains of Virginia. This was a very poignant looks at immigrants coming to America through Ellis Island and the practices used, which was very sad. A young woman and her daughter arrive at Ellis Island and are separated from her mother and brother. She is taken in Virginia to live and work for a distant cousin. The books details life in the Virginia hills and through several tragic events that occur to this family.
Christina
And They Had A Great Fall by Shelby Saville
I thought this book was a good read which takes place in Copenhagen with some flashbacks to NYC. It is a romance and rekindling of a love affair which occurred during the pandemic. Kat travels to Copenhagen to visit Jake, and the book details the demons that they have dealt with in the time they have been apart.
Christina
The Sunflower House by Adriana Allegri
I really enjoyed this story, which is historical fiction and takes place during WWII. The book describes the life of a young woman who has to go to a state-run baby factory and ends up falling in love with a Nazi soldier, who helps her create a special program for young children who were being institutionalized due to the lack of human interaction as babies. It was very interesting but sad.
Christina
Park Avenue by Rene Ahdieh
I really enjoyed this book. The author created a good story of Korean families that emigrated to the U.S. If you liked CRAZY RICH ASIANS, you will like this book!
Christina
Home of the American Circus by Allison Larkin
I greatly enjoyed this story of a complicated family relationship. Freda leaves her hometown after a series of problems with her family and brother-in-law only to return when her parents leave her their dilapidated house. She rekindles her relationship with her niece. The characters were well developed.
Christina
The Stolen Life of Colette Marceau by Kristin Harmel
This was a great read and lives up to the hype. If you are a fan of this author, she delivers in this novel! This historical fiction novel goes back to WWII and to the present day, and describes the life of Colette from a young woman to present day in the U.S. Highly recommend!
Christina
The Poppy Fields by Nikki Erlick
I really enjoyed this novel, which is a pretty unique read. I am not normally a fan of fantasy or science fiction, and this book did not have a lot of those genres in it, but I thought the concept was really well done. I don’t want to give away too much of the plot, but it is definitely worth a read.
Christina
Kate & Frida by Kin Fay
I thought this book was average. It describes the relationship between two women that develops through writing letters and sending books back and forth. It had a strong focus on Bosnia when one character, who is an aspiring writer, travels to Bosnia and is greatly affected by the civil war there.
Kimberley
The Last Spirits of Manhattan by John A. McDermott
This Fall 2025 release will be the perfect Halloween read. The author has used poetic license to retell the fun events around Hitchcock’s party. Ghosts, spirits and ghouls added the ideal backdrop to the famous director’s gathering. The author uses departed family members and the actual party attendees to fictionalize the event. It is a fun, historical fiction recounting Manhattan before skyscrapers took over and removed history.
Gail
The Cliffs by J. Courtney Sullivan
A Reese's Book Club selection in 2024. Jane Flanagan is a highly respected archivist at the exclusive Harvard Sheslinger library, until a night of partying ends badly for her. Now at loose ends, she returns to Awadapquit, Maine, to find her mother in poor health. Jane tries to find peace with the threat of loosing both her archivist job at Harvard and her marriage. An old Victorian house near the cliffs always fascinated Jane. When the new owner, Genevieve, asks Jane to do research on the house, Jane readily agrees. What she finds will send Jane researching the native Indians, sea captains lost at sea, an old cemetery and ghosts. Mystery and historical fiction in one.
Sandra
The Giant on the Skyline by Clover Stroud
An excellent portrayal of a woman and her attachment to the comfort of home and community. Stroud writes with exceptional description of thoughts, feelings.
Betty
Blonde Dust by Tatiana de Rosnay
Interesting historical fiction about the making of the movie, "The Misfits".
Laurie
A Killing Cold by Kate Alice Marshall
Good set up and twisted resolve.
Francisca
Driving Miss Norma by Tim Bauerschmidt and Ramie Liddle
When his mother was diagnosed with uterine cancer at age 90, she decided to forego medical treatment in favor of “hitting the road” with her son and daughter-in-law. This memoir of their time traveling throughout the USA is a result of that decision. They let go of their fears and “what ifs” and embraced the adventure of saying “yes” to living.
Pam
Banned Together: Our Fight for Readers' Rights by Ashley Perez
Remarkable anthology with a mix of poetry, essays, short stories, and graphic essays that powerfully makes the case against censorship of books for young adults, and shows the power of literature to build empathy, critical thinking skills, and understanding. Books literally save lives.
Pam
A Forty Year Kiss by Nickolas Butler
Much to admire in Butler's newest novel, a thoughtful, honest, well written story of second chance love for characters in their 60s. It's always lovely to bask in Wisconsin settings that underpin the themes of family, individual struggles, forgiveness and redemption.
Pam
Happy Land by Dolen Perkins-Valdez
I loved TAKE MY HAND and was very much looking forward to reading HAPPY LAND. Unfortunately, while I appreciated the unknown (to me) history of the kingdom established by former slaves and the loss of their property, I wanted more. More depth of characters. A more immersive, complex plot. More emotional attachment to both the characters and the situations they faced.
Marcia
How to Solve Your Own Murder by Kristen Perrin
Good mystery and characters.
Marcia
Part of Your World by Abby Jimenez
Nice romance. Loved the differences in their backgrounds.
Sharon
Miss Julia Speaks Her Mind by Ann B. Ross
Loved the gentle, but discerning, way the author pokes some fun at the religious establishment (and I'm a pastor, studied at a Presbyterian seminary). Miss Julia, newly widowed, is suddenly confronted with a child sired by her late husband. Then there are the villains who attempt to kidnap the child, beat up ion the child's mother, and encounter Lillian, Miss Julia's maid, the local constabulary and a couple of lawyers who just happen to have Miss Julia's best interests.
Deby
The Paris Bookseller by Kerri Maher
The story of an American bookseller who opened a shop in Paris was okay, but since I'm not incredibly well versed on the 1920s American writers, it didn't really hit home for me, and it didn't make me care a lot about what was happening.
Lurdes
The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle by Haruki Murakami
This is a strange story! Toru Okada lives alone with his wife. He recently lost his job as a law assistant and his wife is the sole breadwinner until she disappears. The story tells of how Toru goes searching for both his wife and his cat, who has also disappeared. He meets a strange assortment of people (both real and in his dreams) on his journey. All the stories are strange and don’t seem to jell until the end of the story.
Nathan
Florida Palms by Joe Pan
Exciting read.
Carol
Long Way Down by Jason Reynolds
Loyalty, revenge, the cycle of violence, LONG WAY DOWN is a story of Will’s 60-second elevator ride where he is faced with a decision as to avenging his brother’s death. The story is told in a unique style of poetic prose and really touches one’s raw emotions. It is worth the ride.
Sally
First Lie Wins by Ashley Elston
Fascinating premise for a book. It kept me enthralled.
Valerie
No More Tears by Gardiner Harris
Not the type of book I typically read but it was very interesting. Made me think even less of doctors than I did before. not to mention the drug companies. Our government didn't look very good either.
Wendi
The Unraveling of Julia by Lisa Scottoline
I understand Julia's feelings after her husband is killed. An inheritance is supposed to be good, but when it leads to you discovering a terrifying past, I'm intrigued. You can do anything because anything can happen. I loved this book, starting wìth the happy-go beginning to the nightmare.
Darlene
Winter in Paradise by Elin Hilderbrand
Fast, entertaining. Good summer read.
Teresa
Rules of Civility by Amor Towles
Such beautiful writing, it makes me wish I were still teaching so that I could show snippets to my students.
Jayme
The Listeners by Maggie Stiefvater
3.5 rounded to 4 stars. I'm a historical fiction girl, so I had a bit of a problem merging magical realism and historical fiction. I found the historical part fascinating - what to do with the German, Italian and Japanese diplomats after the U.S. declared war on Japan in 1941 - why house them in the most lavish secluded luxury hotels in America until you can deport them to their own countries? I fell deep into that part of the book. However, sweetwater that flows under the hotel and influences the people in it and the people influence the water - nope, it didn't work for me, but it might work for you. There is a lot to like in this book, and I think Stiefvater is on her way to becoming a riveting adult historical fiction writer.
Paula
Saltwater by Katy Hays
Interesting story. The Lingate family has much wealth and just as many secrets. I liked Sarah, the murdered wife, and Helen, Sarah’s daughter, both strong female characters. I liked how the book had many suspicious moments and characters. Some books are too easy to figure out midway but not this one. Kept you surprised until the end.
Pam
The Hobbit by J. R. R. Tolkien
Very intriguing and invites me into the story.
Nadine
The Briar Club by Kate Quinn
The setting, post World War II during the Korean War and the crazed Red Scare, highlighted by the McCarthy hearings, is a time many of us know very little about. The narrative is told from the viewpoint of the house, a boarding house for women run by a greedy, selfish, harridan of a mother to two struggling children. The character who knits the book together is Grace, a talented artist and a good friend. She is a careful, caring listener who helps everyone in the house through her generous weekly dinners and her wise advice. With its rich historical detail, unforgettable characters, and perfectly timed surprises, THE BRIAR CLUB is everything I like in historical fiction. It’s a novel that stays with you long after you finish.
Meggan
The Amafi Curse by Sarah Penner
Having recently visited Italy, I could clearly visualize the steep steps to the water and changing colors of the water as described. This tale of women-power was definitely "cheer-worthy".
Nancy
The Briar Club by Kate Quinn
Loved the book.
Chris
Everything Is Tuberculosis: The History and Persistence of Our Deadliest Infection by John Green
Nonfiction; very interesting.
Cheryl
Salt Water by Katy Hays
This is a captivating mystery set against the backdrop of family conflicts in the beautiful island of Capri, Italy. A delightful beach read!!
MH
Speak to Me of Home by Jeanine Cummins
This multi-generational family book about a family from Puerto Rico was written in alternating chapters about different family members. At times it was hard to remember which part of the family it was about, but there was a convenient family tree in the front. Most of the family had lived in the U.S. at times, but went back home frequently. I don’t speak Spanish and wished for more translations in the story, but enjoyed the book almost as much as AMERICAN DIRT. The theme of prejudice was obvious throughout, even in the stratified society of the island.
Wanda
Gone Dark by Ryan Steck
Thriller, based in Montana with wild fires starting. Smoke jumpers are at the rescue until a team is gone silent. Riveting story! Keeps you wanting to read on.
Muriel
The Outlaw Noble Salt by Amy Harmon
Butch Cassidy was brought to life for many of us by the movie “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid”. Ms. Harmon gave Butch, or Noble Salt as he is referred to here, some romance in his life and provided more information about his family. Butch is smitten by singer Jane Toussaint and enters her troubled life in the form of a body guard. As Butch, Jane, and her son Augustus learn more about one another, a deep bond is formed. Unfortunately, Butch’s past and Jane’s tormentor Lord Toussaint will not allow them the peace and happiness they seek. The author truly made the characters come alive for me. They were real people with problems to solve and a beautiful life to be had if only... The book moves along quickly with a surprise at the end.
Susan
My Friends by Fredrik Backman
A tough book filled with insight and sorrow.
Elizabeth
These Summer Storms by Sarah MacLean
This is the perfect summer read!
Cynthia
Woodworking by Emily St. James
Funny and moving.
Shelley
Isola by Allegra Goodman
This was a compelling historical fiction about a woman who survived banishment to a small island in the late 1600s. The story developed the main character's intelligence, emotional and physical strength, and resilience in the face of misogyny, environmental challenges, and the loss of her loved ones.
Peri
Liar’s Bench by Kim Michele Richardson
This book was written by the same author that wrote THE BOOKWOMAN OF TROUBLESOME CREEK. This was her debut novel and not as good as the writing in BOOKWOMAN. The premise of the book involves a woman researching the death of her mother which was ruled a suicide. She is almost 18 years old and saw her mom the day before. The young woman believes she was murdered.
Bea
Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry
Predictable romance novel, good if there is nothing else to read. Too long for what it was about.
Vicki
The New Couple in 5B by Lisa Unger
I like most of her books. I listened to this one and enjoyed it.
Geri
The Stolen Life of Colette Marceau by Kristin Harmel
I wasn't able to put down this book and I thought I was over the WWII genre, but this was so well done.
Judy
The Last Letter by Rebecca Yarros
Ella starts corresponding with Chaos, a soldier her brother knows. She feels very close to him, but it all stops when her brother dies.
Laurie
The Briar Club by Kate Quinn
I loved this! The method of writing and the history are exceptional. The who-done-it kept me on the edge of my seat.
Annie
The House at Tyneford by Natasha Solomons
A captivating, memorable and emotional novel that is beautifully written with wonderful character portrayal.
Carla
The Most Beautiful Girl in Cuba by Chanel Cleeton
This story focuses on the revolutionaries trying to wrest Cuba from Spain, and how the U.S. got involved, through newspapers (Hearst/Pulitzer), a female reporter trying to make her name, and two women from Cuba, whose lives are upended by the revolution. It shed light on a period that I was not familiar with, and it was a compelling read.
Melinda
Say Everything by Ione Skye
Very interesting story of her life.
Sheree
The Maid’s Secret by Nita Prose
I have enjoyed this series so much. It is a nice clean read, and her grandmother had some nice quirky but useful phrases. The character is so likable. This is a wonderful series for someone looking for a wholesome read!
Donna
Finding Grace by Loretta Rothschild
As I’ve seen many others suggest going into FINDING GRACE blindly, I totally agree. The first chapter could only be described as jaw-dropping. I was hooked from that chapter on, although I felt the pace slowed down quite a bit in the middle. The narrator chosen was a unique touch, and I appreciated seeing things from their perspective. And, as far as the character Tom goes, I have no words. Although this wasn’t a mystery as I was anticipating, I thought the book was well written and compelling. Towards the end, I did find myself holding my breath from time to time just waiting for the other shoe to drop. With some morally gray decisions being made, this presented a thought-provoking read.
Donna
Strangers in Time by David Baldacci
In this stand-alone novel, Baldacci takes us to London during the blitz. 13-year-old Charlie is an orphan trying to stay alive with all the bombing going around and stealing a little food here and there since he has no money or place to stay. Molly is a 16-year-old who had been sent to the country by her wealthy parents for two or three years. Her parents are nowhere to be found when she comes home to London. She meets Charlie and he teaches her how to survive when her home is blown up. This book has OLIVER TWIST vibes, but I really enjoyed it.
Gabriel
Catnip by Vyria Durav
This was a lot of cute catgirl antics and not a lot of anything else. It’s pure wish fulfillment, and I can respect that, but it didn't hit for me. I wanted more substance, perhaps more reflection on the non-consent and lack of knowledge on or control over the transformation, or more depth to Alexis and Callie, better incorporating their histories and traumas...but that’s not what this is. It’s about a forced catgirl transformation helping a woman speedrun trans self-discovery so she can have a bunch of cute moments with her polycule. From the description, I hadn’t gotten the impression it was going to lean so heavily on fluff at the expense of more developed characters and plot. I don’t think I would have picked it up if I had known.
Beth
The Catch by Yrsa Daley-Ward
The characters were unlikely and the ending was strange. I didn’t understand it.
Michelle
Broken Country by Claire Leslie Hall
It was a wonderful story that was both happy and sad. I enjoyed reading about farm life and how difficult it is. I didn't figure out the reveal at the end.
Nancy
Presumed Guilty by Scott Turow
I have loved everything by Scott Turow that I have read and this book was no exception. Rusty Sabich, a prosecutor and defense attorney from other Turow books, now retired, returns to the courtroom to defend his much younger fiancee's son, Aaron, who is accused of murdering his girlfriend, Mae. Sabich has to deal with questions about not only Aaron's possible guilt, but secrets from his own and Bea's pasts, relationships, and biases in and outside the courtroom. As usual, the courtroom drama makes you feel like you're there, and, although you know more than the jury, you'll never guess who's done what to whom til the very end.
Tessa
The Door-to-Door Bookstore by Carsten Henn
A small-town German bookseller has delivered books to his customers each evening after the store is closed. This is a lovely story of friendship, purpose, kindness and found family. It’s also about dealing with loss and grief, and about having the courage to make changes in one’s life.
Joan
The American Queen by Vanessa Miller
In my book club, most of us thought the book was important, but needed to be edited/shortened.
Luella
Death in the Dark by Bryce Moore
Good book about wartime, air raids, blackouts and London's Blackout Ripper. Atmosphere and descriptions keeps your interest.
Sandy
The Book Club for Troublesome Women by Marie Bostwick
This was a great book and I am recommending it to everyone! If you are in a book club it would be a great book to read.
Alyson
Holding the Line by Jennifer Delamere
Strong female character has unusual job for a woman as a telegraph operator and helps keep a post office running smoothly. She has a heart that's been betrayed before.
Lynn
Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid
I found this book to be too predictable. No surprises and a rehashing of a common story. It almost duplicated the true story of Sally Ride - though I don't believe her partner worked for NASA.
Ruthanne
Off the Wild Coast of Brittany by Juliet Blackwell
An okay read. Interesting parallel storyline. Woman in present day moves to remote island in France to restore a chateau. Unearths history from island in WWII. I thought Julie Blackwell's other novel, THE LOST CAROUSEL OF PROVENCE, was better than this one.
Pam
The River is Waiting by Wally Lamb
This was a tough read due to the plot line.
Jean
Garlic and Sapphires by Ruth Reichl
Ruth recounts her years as the New York Times restaurant critic and the elaborate disguises she wore to remain anonymous to avoid getting special treatment. The story is both funny and poignant, as she takes on personalities quite different from her own based on what she is wearing.
Simonne
The Book Club for Troublesome Women by Marie Bostwick
A trip back visiting the housewives of early 1960s and the Women’s Revolution, partially prompted by Betty Friedan’s THE FEMININE MYSTIQUE book.
Simonne
Boomsters by David Marks
A hilarious novel by and about a recently retired 70-year-old man with lots of imagination and too much time on his hands. He decides to try a new career as a private detective and finds loads of trouble!
Sean
Rising Sun by Michael Crichton
Michael Crichton tells a story of Japanese/American relations centered around a high-profile murder. The book written in the early 90s seems even more dated as it read like the 1960s at times. I remember this time and I don't remember the Japanese to be treated like aliens. The mystery here was solid and full of political intrigue. I liked hearing about the Japanese way of thinking in societal and business matters, but this read very dated. It was unfortunate at times. The "buddy" cop dynamic was also trying at times as the mentor was so patronizing. Crichton is also known for his amazing tech novels and this one is unbelievable. All that being said, the mystery was enough to keep me interested. Overall, doesn't hold up but is okay.
Suzanne
The Jester by James Patterson and Andrew Gross
This takes place in 1096 during he First Crusade. I enjoyed the time period and the story kept me wanting to keep reading. A lowly innkeeper leaves his village and wife to go fight in the Crusade in the Holy War. After years of great suffering, he gives up on the Crusade and comes back to a village that has completely changed.
Luella
The Night Crew by John Sandford
Very good mystery. Lots of twists and turns to keep your interest. Hard to put down.
Lynda
Saints for All Occasions by J. Courtney Sullivan
A well-told family story beginning with immigrating from Ireland to Boston in 1958 and then what develops over the years until 2009 when they are forced together again because of a tragedy. I really got to know this fictional family and could empathize with each character.
Rose
My Name is Emilia del Valle by Isabel Allende
Born as a result of a sexual indiscretion in 1866 between a Chilean aristocrat and a nun, Emilia never knew much about her biological father. Her mother, a beauty, married a man who raised Emilia as his own and encouraged her to be independent. When she discovers dime novels, Emilia decides to try to write some, but uses a pen name since women as writers weren't respected. After her success, she decides to become a journalist, interviewing at Hearst. She is paired with another reporter, Eric, and is soon sent to be a war correspondent, along with Eric, in Chile. There, she pursues meeting her biological father and embarks on a spiritual journey to find herself. A beautiful story of love, resilience, and determination.
Rose
Hallowed Ground (Flight & Glory, Book 4) by Rebecca Yarros
I typically enjoy romances by Yarros, but this one missed the mark. To be fair, I didn't read the other books in the series, so this was my first experience reading these characters. In this book, Ember and Josh are finally living together. Soon after they move in, Josh is deployed to Afghanistan and Ember is considering going to Turkey for a dig to use towards her PhD. Once again, they will be apart, and after a tragedy in the war, Josh is now suffering from PTSD. I don't feel the book did justice to PTSD, and perhaps because I didn't read the earlier books, I don't know why Josh and Ember were in love. Lust, yes, as they showed on many pages, but I didn't know enough about the characters to get how and why they were in love.
Rose
The Amalfi Curse by Sarah Penner
3.5 rounded to 4 stars. Haven, a nautical archaeologist, goes to Positano to investigate a shipwreck, which is the site her father told her about before he died, saying that he saw a treasure of gemstones. While there, she discovers a book that contains a love story, and a mystery of Mari and Sofia, their mother, and Mari's quest to save her lover, Holmes, by unleashing the power of the oceans using magic. The story flips between the two timelines, which was confusing to me as I was listening to the audio, but I finally got it! The story of Mari was fantastical, and the story of Haven was interesting as it showed difficulties a woman faces in a male-dominated world.
Rose
The Things We Cannot Say by Kelly Rimmer
1942, Poland. Alina and Tomasz are deeply in love, but due to the war, Tomasz disappears. When he returns, he tells Alina that she must escape to Russia and take his friend, Saul, with her.
Present day, Alice's grandmother is dying, and her marriage is stressing under the weight of having a brilliant child and a child on the spectrum. But, when her grandmother begs her to find Tomasz, she is confused as her grandfather died. Yet, her grandmother insists, and Alice takes a trip to Poland where she finds the truth about Alina and Tomasz and the family they left behind. A story which examines the heartache of war and its far-reaching effects, decades later. I really loved the way Rimmer told the story and each part of Alice's family.
Rose
Beach Vibes by Susan Mallery
Beth has always looked after her brother, Rick, even giving up her dream of going to culinary school to put him through medical school. Now, she is so proud of him being a surgeon, while she owns a successful beach sub shop in Malibu. When Rick begins dating Jana, Beth's good friend, she is excited about the relationship. Then, Jana introduces Beth to her own brother, Teddy, and sparks fly between Beth and Teddy. But, then Beth catches Rick with another woman. She confronts Rick, and he swears to break it off. Beth decides to keep the indiscretion to herself, but once it comes out, it fractures the friendship between Beth and Jana and the relationship between Beth and Teddy. The way this novel resolves is good. Good summer read.
Rose
Hazel Says No by Jessica Berger Gross
Hazel is in a new school, after moving from NY to ME for her dad's job - a move that Hazel didn't want! Hazel knows the principal from the town pool, where they discussed books over the summer. But, nothing prepares her for the proposition that the principal gives Hazel on her first day of senior year, when he calls her to his office. Confessing this proposition to her family results in the Blum family being targeted in the community. But, when Hazel begins telling her story, and having it promoted throughout the journalism community, things start changing. This is a great debut novel, with each member of Hazel's family lending their unique perspective to the story. Loved each story!
Vivian
The Women by Kristin Hannah
I loved that the subject matter was fresh and not written about much before. The book was very engaging, it was also a strong historical fiction. The ending was to perfect, in my opinion.
Janet
The Last Party by Clare Macintosh
Great mystery.
MARILYN
Drawn by the Current by Jocelyn Green
The author has created a mystery using the fatal sinking of the ship Eastland in Lake Michigan in 1915. It is said that more people died in this tragedy than on the Titanic (not counting for Titanic crew members). Hundreds of Chicagoans stood by helplessly watching the ship sink. Many victims were insured by MetLife, and the protagonist seeks to solve a mystery because of incorrect identifications. The story also emphasizes the issue of gender in a male dominated society.
Donna
One Wrong Word by Hank Phillippi Ryan
This book for a thriller, moved a little slower than I was used to, yet it did keep me guessing. I did enjoy the integration and writing of the characters. In the end, I did guess the twist but not the character who played this figure. So that is the part I liked. I have never read a book with this kind of writing. I will be looking forward to the next book from this author. Get your copy and see if you can figure it out. Enjoy!
Sonnie
Class Clown by Dave Barry
I read this when I was alone so I wouldn't have to explain why I was laughing uproariously. What a delightful walk through the last 40 years. This man is a genius...only a mind like his could question everything we take for granted and change our minds about how we viewed events while they were happening. The past wasn't so bad after all...in fact it was hilarious!
Anna
Scythe by Neal Schusterman
Read this with my son. I was reluctant honestly because it wasn’t on my radar as something I typically would have picked up, but every once in a while sharing a book together with my 14-year-old son is something I make a priority to do, so I dove in despite secretly wishing he had chosen something else. Within two chapters I knew it was going to be one of my favorites this year. It was so good! Never a dull moment in this story, and I now need to pick up more of this author's books. I love when you unexpectedly end up loving a book you were not excited to read. This is why sometimes you suck it up and read out of your comfort zone. Lesson learned.
Julia
The God of the Woods by Liz Moore
Great summer read about a boy that went missing from a summer camp and several years later his sister goes missing from the camp as well. This is a family drama and cold case mystery that I found to be a page-turner.
Rose
Tell Me Something Good by Court Stevens
I found this novel to be a bit confusing, and it wasn't until quite late in the book that I understood all the characters and the mystery. Years earlier in KY, some women, the Choir Girls, were killed and their bodies were arranged similarly to another crime scene in TX. Did they actually have a connection? Additionally, there are multiple stories of families and their relationships, both found families and biological families. Finally, there is some secrecy about an arms auction at The Lodges, which is highly secretive due to its illegality. Once I was able to get all of that straight, the mystery and the families started making sense. Jealousy and questionable relationships play a big role in this thriller.
Mindy
Life & Other Inconveniences by Kristan Higgins
I really enjoyed this story of a granddaughter who steps up to return to her grandmother after being kicked out 17 years earlier when she got pregnant at 18 years old. She proceeded to raise her daughter and become a psychologist all on her own. Her grandmother calls her when she receives a poor diagnosis and she wants her granddaughter to come back home. She goes and the story is told in different points of view of what happens to all of them that summer.
Rose
Under the Same Stars by Libba Bray
A story told in three timelines, which eventually all tie together. In the present day in Kleinwald, Germany, during WWII, there is a tree, the Bridegroom's Oak, which Sophie and Hanna as well as others, put love letters in, believing they will find their true love. Later, they use the tree to help the resistance against Hitler. In the 1980s, Jenny lives in West Berlin after her father's job transfer. As an American teen, she begins exploring the city and meets Lena, a punk rock teen that opens up a new world for Jenny. Lena hates the Communists because her brother is still trapped in East Berlin. Finally, in 2020, during the pandemic, Miles and Chloe try to unravel the mystery of Chloe's grandmother's surprise package.
Kimberley
Villa E by Jane Alison
A novella bringing to life the drawn-out dispute between the architects of two Mediterranean villas.
It is an eclectic, bold story.
Linda
People in Glass Houses by Jayne Castle
Exciting book about two people with different powers on a different universe in the future called Harmony. They try to solve a murder and find the Clare's sister Leona who is lost in the quartz underground tunnels.
Ruthanne
The Mitford Murders by Jessica Fellowes
Engaging story set in 1920s period. Worth a read and yes, the author is related to famed Julian Fellowes.
Amy
The Hero of this Book by Elizabeth McCracken
THE HERO OF THIS BOOK by Elizabeth McCracken is a heartfelt story in which the author digs into her memories of her mom after she passes away. It’s not your typical memoir because she mixes in some fictional stuff to give herself a little creative space. The book is really about grief, love, and trying to make sense of someone so important who’s gone. Plus, her mom had cerebral palsy, and you get a real sense of how unique and strong she was. It’s touching but also pretty funny at times, which makes it feel super real.
Francisca
The Dog Who Followed the Moon by James Norbury
In the deepest part of winter, a small pup, Amaya, gets separated from her parents. Wandering alone in the woods, she comes upon a pack of wolves. And this begins the latest fable by James Norbury. Once again, he reminds us that life is about the journey, not the destination, and that all experiences are ones we can learn from. And I really love his illustrations.
Sandy
The Perfect Divorce by Jeneva Rose
I loved THE PERFECT MARRIAGE and so I knew I would love this one. Be sure to read the acknowledgements at the end of the book.
Dorothy
Strangers In Time by David Baldacci
While Baldacci usually writes mystery/thriller type of books, I have always enjoyed his stand-alone novels. This one is no exception. It is set in WWII London and is about a bereaved bookshop owner and two young teenage orphans. Fourteen-year-old Charlie is one of the many boys living day to day by stealing to get enough to feed himself and his grandma. Molly is fifteen years old and comes from a very well-to-do family, but when she returns from the countryside where she had been evacuated, nothing is as she expected. I will say no more. Get the book and enjoy!!
Donna
The Silver State by Gabriel Urza
If you enjoy legal thrillers, you might want to add THE SILVER STATE by Gabriel Urza to your TBR list. It’s a captivating read told from the unique perspective of a public defender. Divided into six sections, Jury Selection, Opening Statements, The Prosecutor’s Case, The Case for the Defense, Closing Arguments, and Verdict, with each section prefaced with a page or two devoted to exploring these aspects of a trial, I found this information riveting. Since the first third of the book is dedicated to the beginning of Santi’s career, it takes a bit to delve into the actual story, but it does all come together making for a suspenseful, thought-provoking read.
Edie
Dutch Girl: Audrey Hepburn and WWII by Robert Matzen
A lot of history about the war. Also got to know Audrey Hepburn and who she really was. Very interesting!
Beth
Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano
HELLO BEAUTIFUL is an excellent novel. If you liked DEAR EDWARD, another Ann Napalitano novel, you'll be happy to know that HELLO BEAUTIFUL is even better. I know that HELLO BEAUTIFUL is compared to LITTLE WOMEN, but they aren't at all alike except, maybe, that both books are about close sisters, one who likes to write, another who is an artist, etc. Maybe I'm forgetting other similarities, but the stories are not alike. HELLO BEAUTIFUL is told from the perspective of, mostly, three main characters: Sylvie, Julia, and William. Sylvie and Julia are two of four extremely close sisters.
Diane
Last Twilight in Paris by Pam Jenoff
Pam Jenoff books always leave you more educated and empathetic. I also appreciate how the endings are hopeful.
Dawn
A Map to Paradise by Susan Meissner
This was a very good book with not many characters to keep track of. It was also a pretty quick read. It had a very nice ending for each of the three women main characters. Great book to read for the summer. I rarely give any book a 5-star rating.
Luella
Game Point by Meg Jones
A cute, spicy romance of two tennis pros as they work through personal and professional struggles.
