This contest period's winners were Fran O. from Hardeeville, SC; Jackie S. from Bay Shore, NY; and Linda C. from Glendale, AZ. Each received a copy of FULL BLOOM by Francesca Serritella and YOU BELONG HERE by Megan Miranda.
Lesley
Aftertaste by Daria Lavelle
The premise of this novel is amazing and very imaginative. I was really looking forward to reading it. However, in the end, the writer's voice and twisting plot just did not draw me in. I really wanted it to, but I just wish the book had been better. My book club also read it and we all agreed that the culinary descriptions were top-notch.
Tessa
A Snow Country Christmas by Linda Lael Miller
A typical Christmas romance set in small-town Wyoming. The tropes are all here, but that’s what I’m looking for in this genre. Love the snowy setting, the Christmas cheer, the uber wealthy Branson who has managed to get unique and spectacularly appropriate gifts for virtually everyone, and the fiercely independent Raine who is ready to succumb to “Mr Hollywood.”
Rose
The Red Concerto by S. F. Hayes
I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed this thriller. THE RED CONCERTO follows Charlie, the handsome media mogul who started EmerSound, but it starting to take over his life, and not in a good way. It is starting to lose money, so Charlie needs something to jump start it. He decides to take a wife, and give the tabloids some fodder. He finds Alex, a coffee shop vendor, who intrigues him. She is also a music prodigy, and his proposal offers her a chance to complete her Red Concerto. But, Alex has a secret, and by agreeing to this proposal, her life's secret are in danger of exposure. I enjoyed the music references, the acoustic needs, the math issues, and the secret. I liked how the author slowly peeled away the deception!
Rose
Deep Cuts by Holly Brickley
I really enjoyed this story of Percy and Joe and the music they shared. Meeting while in college, Percy is working at a bar and analyzing a tune. Joe starts asking her about music, eventually asking her to consult on his songwriting. She agrees, and with her help, Joe's song becomes a hit. As the years pass, Percy and Joe become best friends, but Percy always wonders if they could be more, but Joe believes this will destroy their musical cooperation. As Joe becomes more famous, Percy moves around the country. But, they always seem to gravitate towards each other. I loved all the music, much from my youth/teen years. It was wonderful to hear explanations of the music and read the relationship of Percy and Joe. Will read more by her!
Rose
Before We Were Strangers by Brenda Novak
Now a successful model, but reeling from the loss of her good fatherly-type friend, Sloane has returned to her hometown to investigate what happened to her mother years earlier. When Sloane was a child, she heard her parents fighting, then a loud thump, then silence. In the morning, her mother was gone. Sloane suspects her father of harming her mom, but he claims innocence.
Sloane left her high school sweetheart, Micah, without a word, and now that she is back, she can't deny her feelings for him. But, her former best friend, Paige, got herself pregnant, married Micah, and when Micah divorced her, she still resents it, and maybe Sloane, too? Micah helps Sloane, but she's in danger. Good mystery with a few twists.
Rose
The Butcher by Jennifer Hillier
Creepy and surprising. Jennifer Hillier books have always shocked me with various twists. THE BUTCHER is about a serial killer who was captured years earlier - or so everyone thought. When the former chief of police retires and moves to a senior living facility, he leaves his home to his grandson, Matt. Matt moves in and begins renovations, and makes a shocking discovery. Matt is a restaurant owner with a short fuse, which comes to haunt him. His girlfriend, Sam, is a writer, and she plans to write a book about The Butcher, hoping she can put the mystery of her mother's death to rest. A grisly, taut thriller, with several surprises.
Rose
Cosmic Love at the Multiverse Hair Salon by Annie Mare
This is not my kind of novel - I am not a big fan of romantasy, although sometimes it does hit the mark for me. However, I thought some of the themes presented by the author were well done. I liked the idea of the glitch in time, and I loved the idea of a hairdresser who is attentive to the needs and the feelings of her patrons. I also liked the idea of a group of friends joining together to change the fate of someone they loved. Warning - some of the love scenes were a bit graphic, so if that bothers you, you might not like this.
Rose
This Strange Eventful History by Claire Messud
An epic story of a family who migrated from France to Algeria to Canada and to the U.S. Gaston and Lucienne fell in love, and had two children, François and Denise. François marries Barbara and they have Chloe. The story is told over 7 decades, through WWII, their migration to Algeria and beyond. The children, François and Denise, have never been able to live up to the love of their parents, and when Gaston starts developing hardening of his body and Lucienne begins with dementia, their story is re-told and examined. François and Barbara have a strange love marriage, and they wonder if they are meant for each other. The most shocking part of the story comes at the end - and it blew me away. What a surprise.
Beth
The Dark Maestro by Brendan Slocum
Another musical mystery that was entertaining, if implausible.
Rose
All This Could Be Yours by Hank Phillippi Ryan
Art imitates life in some ways in this novel. Tessa is a debut novelist with a blockbuster. To promote the book, Tessa goes on a multi-city tour, leaving her husband and two young children behind. In her first hotel, she finds a locket, posting about it on Facebook. More strange things continue on the tour. Meanwhile, her husband and children make new friends and change to the new house in the new neighborhood. Tessa feels left out. But, Tessa has secrets of her own. Tessa did something as a child causing her mom to move them and change their names. Tessa makes a friend and tells her about the "bad thing". She and the friend also did something bad. So, as audience members question Tessa about her life, what do they know? Fun to read!
Peri
The Bookseller of Madrid by Mario Escobar
I needed something to read while waiting for digital loans from my library. This book was recommended on Hoopla. The book intro described that it was about the Spanish Civil War. However, not much of the book was about that. Instead it quickly goes from the Spanish war to the Holocaust. Disappointing!
Peg
Isola by Allegra Goodman
Characters are well developed and you feel the places described as they are so vivid.
Susan
Autism Out Loud by Karen Swenson
Excellent narration but very tough subject.
Darlene
What Happens in Paradise by Elin Hilderbrand
Good summer read.
Judith
Theo of Golden by Allen Levi
This book is totally different from my normal reading choices and it is wonderful!! Theo is an enigmatic character who appears in a Southern town and begins to give away drawings of people who live there. As he prolongs his stay, he becomes friends with many of the local people and with his help both financial and through encouragement, he begins to change lives. The ending is a total surprise and well worth waiting for.
Teresa
The Phoenix Pencil Company by Allison King
This is one of those rare books I put on my Did Not Finish list. It’s just too weird for me. I liked the characters, but the plot felt too loose and too weird. Just not my kind of book, I guess.
Carol
The Crash by Freida McFadden
This book reminded me of a Stephen King book called MISERY, which I thought was good. What people won’t do to fulfill their dreams and desires.
Jayme
Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy
On a small island off the coast of Australia, a family tends the lighthouse and research station that houses one of the last seed vaults in a future that is being ravaged by climate change. What happens to their sheltered haven when a woman washes ashore and the cracks in their isolated world are exposed? There is a lot going on in this atmospheric and compelling look at what happens to a family who are isolated, angry, grieving and trying to deal with an unforgiving adversary - nature. Great read.
Pam
The River is Waiting by Wally Lamb
Good read. Subject matter was difficult to get through.
Wanda
Verity by Colleen Hoover
This was another great book by this author. I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough, finished it after just one day!! A story of love, friendships, relationships and mystery. Story theme was intriguing. A five-star book for me!!
Lucy
The Wedding People by Alison Espach
Such an unexpected and interesting, in-depth look at relationships and friendships.
Mary Ann
The Martha's Vineyard Beach and Book Club by Martha Hall Kelly
This book was wonderful!! I recommended it to our book club and I know I'll be reading it again.
Pam
Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry
Funny, mysterious, deep, and real, this book will take you back to your own life.
Carol
Badlands by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child
Preston and Child write so many suspenseful stories. I always enjoy reading one now and then; this one was sent to me by the publisher, and I’m so glad because it was a really terrific story that includes indigenous, folklore, and history in a mystery that had me guessing from page one. It’s fast-paced and it’s energetic. The main characters are likable and you're rooting for their success through the whole story. Excellent.
Carol
Close Your Eyes and Count to 10 by Lisa Unger
I was very lucky to meet Lisa Unger and get a signed copy of this book. I have been a fan of hers and have read a few of her books. This one is an interesting premise about a 40-ish woman who needs to get money and joins an adventure group contest on a remote island of hide and seek. To win $1M she needs to be the last one standing. But this also includes the story of her two teenage children that are going through traumatic experiences as well and how they deal with this situation. It was fun, not great but an okay summer read.
Kath
The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
A brilliantly-written book, shining light on the written word. No expletives. No anger. No racist or bias diatribes. A woman’s love of writing is the focus of this book. She shares her world with the reader in a gentle and thoughtful manner. She does have concerns regarding her world and events that are not to her liking, but these are delightfully described and resolved. Her journey is human and humane. A wonderful read.
MH
Where the Creek Bends by Linda Lael Miller
This book was going along fine until time travel intervened! A runaway bride appears in a bar in a town used for movie sets. The bartender is a handsome cowboy. The groom planned to take his mother on the honeymoon; later they moved into the bride’s condo. Okay, that could have been a great plot. Instead, they agree to move out in 30 days and are out of the story.
Rona
Not Forgotten by Kenneth Bae
I cannot imagine what Kenneth went through during his imprisonment in North Korea. It was a compelling story showing his courage to spread the love of Christ despite the tremendous risk to his life.
Linda
The Stolen Life of Colette Marceau by Kristin Harmel
Beautifully-written Robin Hood story in which a unique pair of diamond bracelets reemerge, leading a French woman back to the horrors and heartache of WWII in search of answers and justice for crimes committed long ago. Terrific!
Muriel
Abscond by Abraham Verghese
Even in such a short snippet, I feel I got to know the characters and would have liked to enter their lives even more deeply. I felt compassion for the young Hindu boy Ravi who had to grow up quickly upon the death of his father. Ravi’s father seemed like a wise, intuitive person in regard to his son, and Ravi’s desire to pursue a career in tennis rather than be a doctor like his father. In spite of their grief and conflicts between mother and son, the reader is left feeling they will be okay, and Ravi has learned to think for himself.
dee
Dayswork by Christ Bachelder and Jennifer Habel
I would give this a 5 for creativity, but I decided on a 4 just because I am not sure it fully worked. So glad I read it. A couple in the pandemic fall into the Melville vortex and use facts about Melville interspersed with life. Weird but really good.
Cheryl
A Tisket A Tasket Not Another Casket by Heather Weidner
This is a small, hometown feel book that has all the action of the Hatfield's and McCoy's. Lovable characters. Two rival firework company families, competing for a summer beach blast display, for the residents of Mermaid Bay, Virginia. For mystery fans, we have a gossip columnist, a flight under the boardwalk, security cameras blown out with a pellet gun, a bruised man bleeding from the head, and trash bags in a yard that turns up a dead body. Will we find out who the murderer is before Christmas? I loved this book. All the holiday vibes and bonus recipes at the end of the book.
Debbie
The Sirens by Emilia Hart
Engaging and well written.
Rebecca
Enemies, A Love Story by Isaac Bashevis Singer
An older novel about immigrants in New York City after WWII. How can this man end up with not one, or two, but three wives? His indecision and lies cause all to flee.
Dianne
We All Live Here by Jojo Moyes
Charming story of family dynamics. A divorcee and her two children have her stepfather move in. Things are going okay until one day her father shows up and moves in as well. To make matters worse, our narrator's ex-husband and his new wife live in the same neighborhood; her son attends the same school as our narrator's children. Oh, and she is pregnant. Then there is the gardener she thinks she is falling for. Things get complicated.
Edie
What Have You Done? by Shari Lapena
I was disappointed in the ending.
Meggan
Magic Hour by Kristin Hannah
Loved the characters!
Linda
Call the Midwife by Jennifer Worth
A memoir of a midwife's experiences serving the poverty stricken East End of London during the 1950s while living with Anglican nuns who also served the community. It's both a heartwarming (even humorous) but also a tragic story of the heroic women who tried so hard to survive. Very entertaining!
Tanya
Steps to Christ by Ellen G. White
This is a life-changing book! If you are wanting to take a closer walk with Jesus, this is a good place to start! I highly recommend this book to everyone!
Rosa
My Friends by Fredrik Backman
I truly love Fredrik Backman's writing. This book is a love story about four teenaged friends and their survival through their harsh lives through their friendships. It is an ode to art and books and how they enrich our lives and make everything better. Backman's writing makes me close the book, close my eyes, and savor a sentence that I have just read. It is poetic and beautiful. So many quotes to write down to remember later. I recommend this book to everyone.
Joan
The American Queen by Vanessa Miller
The book tells an important story, but it is longer than it needs to be.
Jonell
The Mysterious Bakery on Rue de Paris by Evie Woods
Lovely story that takes you to a delightful village in France. There is a little bit of a ghost story intermixed that just adds to the charm of watching a young woman find new friends and a new life while dealing with grief.
Jean
The Egg and Other Stories by Sherwood Anderson
These stories were written in the 1920s. It was a different world then, though much about people remains the same. Anderson was an acclaimed author, best known for his novel WINESBURY, OHIO. His writing style here is dense, filled with characters who don't like their lives and have little idea how to improve them. It is a world with almost none of the technology we take for granted. Visiting the past was somewhat entertaining, but I wouldn't want to live there.
Caryl
Mortal Sight by Sandra Fernandez Rhoads
Wowzers! Rhoads had crafted an exquisite masterpiece! I was immediately immersed into the drama. Twists and turns kept me turning the pages. This story is rich with deep truths that resonated within me. These characters will linger long after turning the final page. I look forward to reading the next installment in this series. I recommend to readers who enjoy young adult fantasy. I purchased my copy. I have expressed my honest view.
Caryl
The Drawing of the Three by Stephen King
King has crafted a twisty masterpiece. I was immediately immersed into the drama. This novel is hard to put down. Recommend to readers who enjoy fantasy novels.
Caryl
Embergold by Rachelle Nelson
Brilliant! Nelson has crafted an exquisite masterpiece! EMBERGOLD is an epic tale of true love. These characters will linger long after turning the final page. I so enjoyed this novel. Recommend to readers who enjoy young adult fantasy.
Rose
Blood Moon by Linda Castillo
I love the Kate Burkholder novellas. They are usually light-hearted and feature Kate and her significant other, John Tomasetti. In BLOOD MOON, Kate is awakened when a Painters Mill resident reports a strange animal sighting, perhaps a bear, and states that it attacked him. As Kate and John investigate and figure out what it is, with the help of the wildlife group, the puns start pouring in. I laughed several times at all the puns in this one. They kept it light and the ending was nicely handled. Highly recommend these novellas in between the heavier novels set in Amish country.
Jeanne
The President’s Shadow by James Patterson and Richard DiLallo
THE PRESIDENT'S SHADOW by James Patterson and Richard DiLallo is well written with good character development. I didn’t care for the science fiction storyline and it was hard for me to follow at times. I’m not really a science fiction fan so for me it was not my favorite by James Patterson. If you are a fan of science fiction, I think you will love it.
Rose
The View From Lake Como by Adriana Trigiani
Growing up in an Italian family often means close family ties, large family dinners, and people being in your personal business and your decisions. Jess is reeling from her divorce to Bobby, her long time love. She is living in her parents basement and is working for her Uncle Louie. She is all set to go to Italy with her beloved uncle when tragedy strikes. Embroiled in a FBI investigation, and finding out secrets about some decisions her parents made about her college education, Jess decides to travel to Italy to find herself. While there, she meets Angelo and is introduced to her heritage. This had me laughing at times and it made me appreciate my Italian heritage. I rooted for Jess and wanted her to succeed. I had a cat named Smoky!
Donna
Culpability by Bruce Holsinger
Oprah’s July Book Club pick, CULPABILITY by Bruce Holsinger, is a propulsive family drama set in our present day and steeped in self-driving cars, chatbots, and AI. So many moral and ethical questions are raised in this well-written, suspenseful read. With its compelling premise, and the family dynamics at play, I was all-in. As a parent, the fear, heartbreak and guilt surrounding the accident was palpable. A page-turner, for sure.
Carol
Running with Sherman by Christopher Mc Dougall
Heartwarming and fun true story of a rescue donkey and the human and animal bond.
Sandy
Good Dirt by Charmaine Wilkerson
Loved this story of Ebony and the stone jar called Ol Mo. She was ten when her fifteen-year-old brother Baz was murdered when two men tried to steal the stone jar. Her life and the story of the stone jar is very special. I just reserved her other novel, BLACK CAKE from the library.
Donna
Daylight by David Baldacci
Wow, wow, wow is all I can say!! This was definitely intense, one thing led to another. Amazing writing as we know with Mr. Baldacci. This series is totally amazing and I loved main character Atlee Pine. It shows the strength of a woman and determination. She can run with the best male FBI agents and be still standing, albeit with some collateral damage. This is a 400-page book, yet you can't put it down. I highly recommend the Atlee Pine series of Mr. Baldacci! Enjoy!!
Kathleen
The God of the Woods by Liz Moore
The story is complex and engaging, the characters well-developed, and the ending a bit of a surprise. I enjoyed the book once I figured out how to navigate all the changes in characters and time periods.
Mimi
Look Closer by David Ellis
Psychological mystery. I didn't figure out what was going on until close to the end of the book. Written from different characters' views. I enjoyed it very much.
Sarah
The Silence of Everyrthing by Malaika Nawaz
I really loved this book. The theme of peace and love for silence is what helped me so much. I actually loved each poem in it.
Laura
Broken Country by Clare Leslie Hall
Loved it. Listened to it and it was a great book and wonderfully narrated.
Laura
The Bitter End Birding Society by Amanda Cox
Really good book with a diverse group of wonderful characters that stay with you.
Tessa
The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V. E. Schwab
In 1714, a young woman flees from the planned/arranged marriage and begs the gods for her freedom. Luc grants her wish but… What a wonderful, engaging story. I was completely captivated. And while I’ve grown to hate the ubiquitous dual timeline, in this case it was necessary, for how else to tell the story of “invisible” Addie LaRue, and her Faustian bargain? What a cunning, clever woman!
Vizma
The Only Woman in the Room by Marie Benedict
An interesting read for me as I was not aware of the scientific details of Hedy Lamarr's life.
Catherine
Welcome to Murder Week by Karen Dukess
Fun mystery with a little family drama and romance.
Debbie
The Haunting of Moscow House by Olesya Salnikova Gilmore
In the beginning, THE HAUNTING OF MOSCOW HOUSE evokes vivid images of Russia in the 1920s amid the Revolution and the loss of life and fortune of the wealthy Russians. The story illustrates the despair that follows a change in government. War brings terror, hunger, and death. The story follows the Golitev family and what a desperate family will do to survive. What throws the novel into a deep hole rests in the introduction of the haunting and all the descriptive language of ghosts, mystery, and horror. As this juncture appears, the storyline disappears. A compelling chapter in Russian history hidden in the supernatural.
Debbie
The Red House by Mary Morris
Laura’s mother, Viola, disappears one day. Viola leaves behind two young daughters and a husband. Now thirty years later, Laura returns to Italy to research her mother’s life and hopefully to find Viola. Instead, Laura learns of her Jewish ancestry and the story of the Red House that Viola has captured in many paintings. The Red House housed Jews that were captured and were kept prisoner in this horrible building. Mary Morris wonderfully captures each setting and the many characters, and briefly hints at the feelings of these luckless people. Why does Viola leave and not tell anyone where she is heading? Will Laura be able to accept all that she has learned about Viola and Viola’s family?
Rose
Miss Morgan's Book Brigade by Janet Skeslien Charles
I enjoyed reading this historical fiction novel about a real American woman, Jessie "Kit" Carson, who helped to establish children's libraries in Paris. During the first world war, in 1918, Jessie, affectionately called Kit, left NYPL to work for CARDs, which is the Comité Américain pour les Régions Dévastées. It was founded by JP Morgan's daughter, millionaire Anne Morgan, who recruited women to help rebuild the French communities that were destroyed. Jessie helped to build children's libraries, a new concept in France, and also train women to be librarians. Later, a writer and NYPL librarian, Wendy, reads about Jessie in the library's archives. She decides that she wants to write about Jessie and her courage. Wonderful!
Gabriel
You Weren't Meant to be Human by Andrew Joseph White
Pregnancy horror is really the worst for me because I already find the details of even healthy, wanted pregnancies to make me squeamish. But on top of that, White expertly brought out the unique horror of a forced pregnancy with a trans man — the sickening loss of bodily autonomy, the elements of forced de-transition, the mix of dysphoria and body horror Crane feels just from the pregnancy inevitably progressing down its natural course.
Rose
People of Means by Nancy Johnson
Nancy Johnson writes beautiful historical fiction novels! In this, she draws attention to activism of Black women, esp. in the civil rights era of the 1960s, and then again after the Rodney King beating and subsequent trial in the 1990s. Freda is a young woman from a family "of means" in Chicago, and goes to Nashville to attend Fisk, and for her mother, to find a husband, preferably a doctor like her own father. While there, she meets Darius, who is active in the civil rights movement and falls in love. But, instead she marries Gerald and they have a daughter, Tulip. This decision has haunted Freda her entire adult life, but no more than in 1992 when she learns the truth of what truly happened. A realistic view of activism. Excellent!
Vicki
The Demon of Unrest by Erik Larson
All his books are great! This one was so historically informative that I learned a lot about Lincoln, Seward and others of that time.
Dale
The Blue Hour by Paula Hawkins
It kept me guessing until the end on the thoughts and actions of the main character. In her mind she did the things she did to help people.
Mary
The Martha's Vineyard Beach and Book Club by Martha Hall Kelly
I read it for book club. I live in Massachusetts so it was nice reading about the local island. I never knew that soldiers trained for Normandy during WWII. I learn something new every day!!
Mitra
The Frozen People by Elly Griffiths
Elly Griffiths is one of my favorite writers and she didn’t disappoint. I was a bit doubtful about the premise of time travel in the book, but her characters are so well delineated that it was easy to suspend disbelief and read about the adventures of Ali Dawson and her colleagues in this special and secret cold case investigation unit in London. Ali’s relationship with her son Finn, the feral cat Terry and Jones who appears to have Elly’s own characteristics make it a memorable book and a series. There are clearly some hanging strings left to spin the next book in the series.
Kimberley
Village Weavers by Miriam J. A. Chancy
This captivating historical fiction follows best friend Sisi and Gertie through their turbulent upbringing which follows them into adulthood. Beginning about 1942, the reader quickly learns about Haiti and the island’s class division, misogynistic beliefs, political uprisings and the strength of women to fight back. The novel follows the forms throughout their lives and closely reminds readers that nothing has changed.
Dawn
The Lost Girls of Willowbrook by Ellen Marie Wiseman
This book was an alternate choice for my book club. Although I thought some of the detailed descriptions concerning certain individuals that surround the main character were a bit much in the beginning, when you get to the conclusion of the book, you find out that all the detailed description was necessary. I found this book to be well written and I look forward to reading another book by this author. It actually has an unexpected ending as well. Or at least I thought it was unexpected.
Rose
What to Say Next by Julie Buxbaum
Kit is devastated by her father's death. After he was killed in a car crash, Kit is depressed and doesn't want to talk with her friends about it. David, who is socially awkward, and on the spectrum, asks Kit about her dad. This begins a friendship where Kit tells David her thoughts, especially about "The Accident Project", which she started to determine how her dad died. Over the next few weeks, Kit and David become very close, and David works on the project. With his analytical mind, he discovers the truth - and that truth may shatter this very delicate friendship. This is a sweet YA book about how to talk about things and how to open yourself up to friendship. I enjoyed it.
Rose
The Girls of the Glimmer Factory by Jennifer Coburn
This book examines the propaganda machine of the Germans during WWII. Because Hannah was sick, she couldn't escape Prague with her family. Her grandfather stays behind with her, and they plan to leave. But, they are taken to Theresienstadt, a place where the Jews are allowed to have music and arts. This is all so the Germans can make a propaganda film to show the treatment of Jews is not at all bad. Hannah's childhood friend, Hilde, believes in the cause and is working for the government. She wants to make the film and offers Hannah an opportunity. Hannah is wise to the propaganda and is working for the Resistance, doing what she can to stop the German onslaught. The Glimmer Factory is where they worked with mica scraps.
Lee
The Butcher's Masquerade by Matt Dinniman
One of the best books of the series.
Rose
The Friendship Fling by Georgia Stone
Ava is not a people person, so her job as a barista is not good for her. Yet, when Finn walks into the coffee shop, she tells her friend that he is a friend. Ava and Finn agree to work on his bucket list for London together. As they go through the items on the list, the attraction between them begins to build. But Ava is worried about her brother, Max, and his cancer, and Finn is trying to land his dream job in San Francisco, so their relationship has an end date. This was a cute, flirty romance with a lot of banter between Ava and Finn. I rooted for them to find each other and to let go of the baggage. I look forward to reading more from this author.
Brumby
The Oceans and the Stars by Mark Helprin
This book is amazing. The sea, fighting, love story. Just perfection.
Nonie
The Briar Club by Kate Quinn
Never saw the ending coming. Character-driven story. All the characters were completely developed. The strong bond of friendship was one them in this book. Murder mystery.
Roxanne
Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy
Very absorbing tale of future climate change, personal struggle among men and women guarding the remaining seed bank for future generations. It includes mystery elements, mental breakdown among survivors and family relationships within the family left to protect the remaining seeds. There is a developing love story and the consequences of harsh life on a crumbling planet.
Debbie
The Wind Knows My Name by Isabel Allende
Interesting.
Judy
Burying the Lede by Joseph LeValley
A new reporter has a double murder to cover right away!
Marla
Dogged Pursuit by David Rosenfelt
This is a precursor to the Andy Carpenter Series. It’s always fun to hang out with the gang in these books. I love the characters and they feel like old friends. The mystery does not disappoint.
Susan
The Story She Left Behind by Patti Callahan Henry
A lovely story of a writer's mysterious disappearance and her daughter's quest for answers after she receives a most unexpected call. This was eloquently written and brought a sense of the horrors of the deaths surrounding the great London fog.
Jeanne
Summer Light on Nantucket by Nancy Thayer
SUMMER LIGHT ON NANTUCKET by Nancy Thayer is a well-written, perfect summer beach read. It is about family, second chances, and life challenges. I thought the author did a great job creating and developing characters that were not only likable and relatable, but a perfect match for this delightfully charming and entertaining storyline. I was captivated and drawn into Blythe’s journey from the very first page. I think that Nancy Thayer has once again knocked her enchanting new novel out of the park. I thoroughly enjoyed reading about the culture, food and life on Nantucket. If you love a heartwarming summer beach story, read this book.
Judy
Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt
An enjoyable story with great character development. Marcellus, the octopus, was a cantankerous character that pulled the all the pieces of the story together while demonstrating unique human traits. I enjoyed the various aspects that were pulled from the author’s personal life experiences.
Betty
Dark Maestro by Brendan Slocumb
Excellent book. It took me a little longer to read it due to rescuing a 1-year-old puppy. I loved the story and wanted to keep reading it. It was hard to put down. I loved his prior two books as well. I was never really into comic books but the part of the story about them was fascinating.
Rose
Eat Post Like by Emily Arden Wells
A lawyer, Cassie, unhappy in her job, decides to take a two month sabbatical, going to Europe to continue her boyfriend's, James's, blog as a food critic/writer. She doesn't tell anyone that she is impersonating his work and begins to write her own blog. Cassie makes friends on the trip to Europe and starts building new relationships and taking control of her life. But, because she didn't tell people how she got invited on the trip, she thinks of herself as a fraud when she is called out.
I just didn't find this story to be believable. Why wouldn't James have told her his secret? How could she so easily transform into this new identity?
Kathy
Source Code by Bill Gates
Unexpectedly interesting. Testament to the impact of family. Great history of the birth of the microprocessor and minicomputers.
Shelley
Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid
This book was another 5-star book from Taylor Jenkins Reid. You could tell how much research she did for this book. It was captivating from the very first chapter through the end. Make sure you have tissues when you read it, you will need them!
Luella
Wish You Were Her by Elle McNicoll
Great book. A sweet love story about a young couple finding their way.
Donna
The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
If you’re looking for a beautiful read which will bring out all the emotions, may I suggest Virginia Evans’s debut novel, THE CORRESPONDENT. When this tale begins, we meet Sybil Van Antwerp, a sassy septuagenarian. Ms. Evans has not only penned a gorgeous book, but a unique book in that the reader learns all about Sybil’s life through correspondence. And Sybil is a force to be reckoned with. Her letters contained laugh-out-loud moments as well as heart shattering moments. Such an endearing character. I also appreciated Sybil and her friends mentioning the books they were reading. It was like a feast for a bibliophile. I absolutely loved everything about this book. It doesn’t get any better than that, does ii?
Wanda
Making Wishes by Richelle Goodrich
A beautifully-written book of poems and daily quotes which start each day on thought and happy notes. One can read all at once or on a daily basis.
Dianne
The Song of the Blue Bottle Tree by India Hayford
Set in the rural south in the late 1960s, the story traces Genevieve and the family she found after losing her mother, being abandoned by her father and institutionalized until she was 18. Genevieve wanders the south, sleeping in cemeteries, joining the circus, hearing voices and seeing ghosts. Encountering her "family" includes a patriarchal bully and pedophile. Engaging story and characters you love or hate, this is a outstanding read.
Abby
Good Dirt by Charmaine Wilkerson
I really enjoyed this book. It tells a current story about an African American woman who is going through a current crisis and had faced a terrible loss as a young girl. The story also focuses on a family heirloom which takes us back hundreds of years. Much to learn here.
Laurie
This Is Why We Lied by Karin Slaughter
A continuation of Will and Sara’s story, they’re on their honeymoon in an isolated luxury camp. Not even given one day to enjoy their new wedded bliss, one of the family members who runs the camp is murdered. While Will and Sara have no other option than to let all the others at the camp know what their professions are and help to initiate an investigation. Deeper secrets will be revealed about the owners and their dark history.
Sandy
The Names by Florence Knapp
Wonderful book!! Took me a few chapters to understand how she was writing, but then I got it!!
Dee
The Matchmaker's Gift by Lynda Cohen Loigman
Magical realism at its lighthearted best. I really enjoyed this tale of Jewish matchmaking in America. It was sort of a dual timeline story, telling about a young girl with a special gift for matching soulmates who battled the male-dominated business of arranged marriages during the early twentieth century and her love for her granddaughter, who ultimately inherited her gift in the twenty-first century.
Carol
The Fraud by Zadie Smith
The novel is Smith’s attempt to confront the legacy of slavery in Jamaica – but this being Smith, it’s a slave story buried in a philosophical novel of ideas nestled in a comedy of manners. A lot is going on, though there are three main strands to the narrative. I found the characters compelling, the plot is full of scandal, and there are many references to several well-known writers that help to ground this historical novel in something quite familiar. Smith is expertly able to interweave moments of levity and humor into a book that deals with some heaviness. However, too long and dense for me.
Carol
The Kamogawa Food Detective by Hisashi Kashiwai
In an assuming shopfront down a Kyoto back alley lies not only a very special restaurant but an attached detective agency that specializes in recreating meals from their clientele’s memories. It is the coziest of mystery novels, as the Kamogawas solve their customers’ problems through their ingenious recreations of dishes, sometimes with a very necessary twist. Along the way, they dispense excellent advice, changing lives for the better. Little wonder that this gem of a detective novel is a bestseller in Japan. Very fun read.
Liz
Six Days in Bombay by Alka Joshi
Sona is a nurse in Bombay in 1930. A famous artist, Mira Novak, is admitted to the hospital in Sona’s care after suffering a miscarriage. When Mira suddenly dies, the blame is placed on Sona. Mira has left a very cryptic note and four paintings to be delivered to different acquaintances across Europe. Hopefully at the end of this journey Sona will be able to clear her name. While this was not nearly as good as THE HENNA ARTIST, is was an interesting story.
Liz
My Friends by Fredrik Backman
Four friends, all 14 years old, are inseparable one summer. They are all poor and mostly all abused in some way. The group convinces one to draw a painting and enter a contest. Years later, the painting is worth millions. Like most of this author's books, there is some sadness but also humor, and this one delves into the power of friendship. I listened to the audio version and that took away from the story because it jumped back and forth between adulthood and childhood. I would have enjoyed it much better if I had read it.
Cathy
The Other Side of Now by Paige Harbison
One of those books that is hard to put down. The characters are believable and ones that you want to get to know and be friends with. Make sure that you have a tissue or two. You will need it.
Caryl
Vanishing Leagacy by Lynette Eason
Eason and Angelo have crafted an edge-of-your-seat romantic suspense novel. I was immediately immersed into the drama. Twists and turns kept me turning the pages. These characters will linger long after turning the final page. I devoured this novel in one sitting. I'm looking forward to reading the next installment in this series.
Caryl
Hunting Justice by Lynnette Eason
Eason and Abrams have crafted another edge-of-your-seat romantic suspense novel. I was immediately immersed into the drama. I'm looking forward to reading the next installment in this series.
Lesley
The Safekeep by Yael Van der Wouden
If you enjoy a quiet book, one without a suspenseful plot and a queer love story that builds, this might be an interesting read. I found it interesting in parts, but it really isn't going to be a favorite.
Fran
My Friends by Fredrik Backman
This was a good book with some heavy themes. Friendships that are bonded by abuse and trauma. The author throws in some mini twists, making the ending very unpredictable, which is rare for me. I usually figure out books right away. Lyrical writing and thought-provoking prose makes for a good solid read! Well done, Fredrik Backman!
Caryl
Last Twilight in Paris by Pan Jenoff
Jenoff has crafted an exquisite masterpiece. I was immediately immersed into the drama. Twists and turns kept me turning the pages. I enjoy WWII novels with a dash of mystery. I look forward to reading more novels from Ms. Jenoff.
Cynthia
Carnegie's Maid by Marie Benedict
An okay book since I'm from Pittsburgh.
Debbie
Mercy Falls by William Kent Krueger
I have always enjoyed William Kent Kreuger’s Cork O’Connor series, but MERCY FALLS left me unsettled. The story ends with no resolution and begins with the brutal murder of two dogs. According to Mr. Kreuger, these two diversions never fall into a mystery, so why in Mercy Falls. Supposedly, the next novel, COPPER RIVER, ties up the missing elements of MERCY FALLS. Kreuger write a flowing novel of the Minnesota landscape and of the problems of relationships. The biggest relationship problems arise between father and sons. Special agent, Dina Winter enters Cork’s life. And Jo, grapples with an ex-lover from her college days. Rose, Jo’s sister, and longtime housekeeper and baby-sitter at the O’Connor residence, has married and moved.
Margaret
Broken Country by Claire Leslie Hall
This novel has it all and the twists and turns never stop. It left me in tears. This is one I will not soon forget.
Luella
Deadline by John Sandford
Great read. One of the best Virgil Flowers novels. A couple of strange mysteries and a good deal of humor.
Elizabeth
An Enemy in the Village by Martin Walker
Another great Chief Bruno book.
Vito
The King of Ashes by S. A. Cosby
Oh, this is what a page-turner is supposed to be! S.A. Cosby’s THE KING OF ASHES is fantastic and the best crime thriller you’ll read all year. It’s not just the pacing - thankfully - that makes Cosby’s latest a complete knock out. The story is phenomenal tip to tail, roping you in and keeping you there as you get to know each of the three siblings, each on a journey, some more dangerous than others. Roman, Dante and Neveah are left to pick up the pieces after their father, the owner of Jefferson Runs’ crematorium, is left for dead in an accident. As the story progresses, more layers are peeled and you the reader, along with the three, feel like you’re in it and it’ll be hard to get out of the mess. This mess only gets messier!
Rose
The Searcher by Tana French
Cal Hooper is a retired Chicago PD detective who moves to a rural village in Ireland to get away from it all. He buys a small home which needs a lot of renovations. He begins to feel like someone is watching him, and discovers it is Trey, a young teen who asks Cal to help find their missing brother, Brendan. It seems Brendan hasn't been seen for 6 months. When Cal reluctantly searches for Brendan, he is warned to stop by the townspeople in some subtle, and not so subtle, ways. This book was a slow mystery. I felt there were many pages that didn't add to the mystery, but did develop the characters.
Donna
We Live Here Now by Sarah Pinborough
I loved the atmospheric, haunted house setting of WE LIVE HERE NOW by Sarah Pinborough. So many creepy moments that had my hair standing on end. The characters, however, were pretty unlikable and difficult to make a connection with. In fact, they felt a little flat to me. I appreciated the chapters from the raven’s point of view. Quite unique. Although it was a bit repetitive, I was all in, up until the house’s secret was revealed. Ugh!! I will admit that I do have a problem when it comes to suspending reality. If that’s not a problem for you, then you’ll probably enjoy this book more than I did.
Liz
Want to Know a Secret? by Freida McFadden
April Masterson is a You Tube sensation with her cooking show Sweet Secrets. These are not the only secrets she has. Living in an upscale neighborhood can be difficult, especially when the wives and mothers are trying to outdo each other. When they all have their own secrets that are best not revealed, life can become very dangerous.
Darlene
I Did Warn Her by Sian Gilbert
Just okay. Long, drawn out. Wouldn't recommend it.
Elizabeth
Coded Justice by Stacey Abrams
Another great Avery Keene thriller from Stacey Abrams. This one talks about AI.
Jayme
Memorial Days by Geraldine Brooks
In this crushingly beautiful tribute to her husband, Brooks splays open her grieving heart to acknowledge, embrace and confront the anger that she has been holding in for the 3 years after his untimely death. This was a moving account of love, family and courage - courage to allow yourself to finally feel everything.
Teresa
The View from Lake Como by Adriana Trigiani
What a beautifully-written book. You will love the characters, especially Jess. Upon seeing the movie Moonstruck, my then teen daughter asked, “Why can’t we be Italian? We’re so blah.” This book makes me feel that way, too. Trigiani’s descriptive writing is as lovely as that of WHERE THE CRAWDADS SING, but then she goes on to be funny, moving, heartbreaking, and happy. I recently saw her at an author’s night and she was delightful, and frankly hilarious. Don’t miss this book!
Susan
King of Ashes by S. A. Cosby
Gritty noir by an exceptional author. Family drama with vulnerable characters. Three siblings pull together to solve the problem caused by one brother's debt to ruthless criminals.
Deborah
The River is Waiting by Wally Lamb
Could not put this book down!! An emotional mix of love, tragedy, betrayal and consequences.
barbara
The Overnight Guest by Heather Gudenkauf
I totally enjoyed this book. A mystery writer helps victims of an accident in a snowstorm. The pieces of a series of past events neatly come together to solve a mystery from the past.
Deborah
The Nurse's Secret by Amanda Skenandore
Historical novel set in the 1880s about America’s first known nursing school, Bellevue, and one woman’s journey.
Beverly
The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah
Haunting.
Pamela
Peyton Place by Grace Metalious
Remembering that I was not allowed to read this when growing up, I was anxious to read it now. This helps me as it really depicts how things were. Energetic and exciting!
Francine
Wayward Girls by Susan Wiggs
I wish I had the option of giving this book more than five stars. It was that good. I’ve been a Susan Wiggs fan for many years, and I’ve read (and loved) almost all of her books. This one is a departure from what she usually writes, but it is outstanding! The story centers around six teen-age girls who get sent to a reform school in the 1960s. It’s based on true incidents which make it even more gut-wrenching. The best book I’ve read all year!
Sally-Jo
The Storied Life of A. J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin
Pleasant story of a man whose life has had ups and downs. He goes from curmudgeon to devoted husband and father. He's a likeable character that I found myself cheering for throughout the book.
Becky
Slow Horses by Mick Herron
I have discovered Mick Herron! Yes, I've watched every episode of the Apple TV+ series, but I hesitated when it came to reading the books because I figured I'd be reading the movie script. After three tries, I made it past the first chapter (which IS exactly like the TV first episode) and fell into an amazing world of intrigue, laugh-out-loud humor, and darn good writing. Filled with characters who have embarrassed themselves in MI5 and are now relegated to the lowly Slow Horses, this novel never ceases to please. Now I'm gleefully trapped in Mick Herron's world. Moving on now to book four, SPOOK STREET. I highly recommend.
Karen
The Unraveling of Julia by Lisa Scotoline
I couldn’t wait to get back to the story. Audio is excellent.
Cheryl
The Stolen Life of Colette Marceau by Kristin Harmel
Colette is trained by her mother to be a jewel thief, and it serves her well. As a descendant of Robin Hood, she steals from people who are shown to have committed crimes against society.
Robert
The Housemaid Is Watching by Freida McFadden
Excellent. Good plot, easy reading, nice twists.
Wanda
The Red Lotus by Chris Bohjalian
This book is an adrenaline-fueled thriller which involves love, relationships, how far one will go to save a loved one. THE RED LOTUS is a global thriller about those who dedicate their lives to saving people, and those who have a passion for biking. Travel is also a passion. Two people fall in love under unexpected circumstances and the story begins! Very interesting read.
jana
Cuplability by Bruce Holsinger
Loved, loved this new author to me and it opened up my eyes to AI.
MH
The Original Daughter by Jemimah Wei
A family in Singapore adopts a daughter from their grandfather’s other family. The original daughter Gen is a year older and forms a love-hate relationship with her new sister Arin, who becomes an actress. Gen, angry at her mother, moves to New Zealand, then comes home, estranged from Arin.
The theme of jealousy is prominent throughout. The only criticism I had of the book was the prominence of words specific to Singapore; I spent a lot of time looking up words that were sometimes not found. I was surprised to find that English is the official language there.
Sharon
The Manor of Dreams by Christina Li
A ghostly story of a crumbling manor house, the mystery of inheritance, family fractures, and generational pain.
Laurel
The Turtle House by Amanda Churchill
I loved this book! A great historical fiction read about a Japanese war bride who relocated to a vast Texas ranch in the 1950s. I learned a lot from this book, which is what I love about historical fiction.
Susan
The Poppy Fields by Nikki Erlick
Interesting premise plus feel good aspects.
Mary
The Summer Guests by Tess Gerritsen
Terrific plot. Characters I care about. Gerritsen’s writing is stellar.
Gabriel
Tao, Undead by Charlotte Amelia Poe
I had issues with the pacing and the tone throughout this book. The dialogue and the narration play up all this drama (the love, the tragedy, the tension) without either the necromancy plot or the romance doing much to actually build up to or support that tone. The melodrama of the characters’ interactions gave the impression that Adam and Tao were these star-crossed lovers torn apart by a great cataclysm, while all I had actually gotten narratively up to that point was two strangers and some vague dreams. For the romance, Tao can equate touch starvation and infatuation with true love and trust all they want, but if I’m being asked to believe they’re right, there’s got to be more to this relationship than the story gave me.
Aida
Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt
My neighborhood book club picked this book. I had read the book before and decided to listen to the audio. What a treat - the narrators were wonderful. The story was fresh and it refreshed my memory and my enjoyment of the tale.
Laurie
Hidden Nature by Nora Roberts
This book is a slow burn.
Joan
The American Queen by Vanessa Miller
The book would benefit from some editing. I thought it gave too much detail.
Barbara
Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Joan, a candidate for the Space Shuttle, 1984, is struggling with her ambition, family loyalty, and sexual orientation. A very dramatic opening during a shuttle maneuver is played out against the back story of how Joan became an important part of the program. Several other characters/candidates play interesting roles. Jacket notes claim this novel is "fast-paced, thrilling, and emotional." Maybe for some readers, but I found it a bit preachy and the characters never made me feel much for them (except Joan's little niece). As a huge fan of the Apollo program, I was disappointed in this treatment of the men and women of NASA.
Janet
Love, Lists and Fancy Ships by Sarah Grunder Ruiz
A good summer read.
Peri
The Tenant by Freida McFadden
This is not the best of Freida McFadden’s books. Though it kept me engaged, I guessed the plot about halfway through the book. I much prefer books with a protagonist that is a complete surprise.
The storyline is about an engaged couple. He has just lost his job so they are struggling financially. They decide to take in a tenant.
Marilyn
Drawn by the Current by Jocelyn Green
This mystery is based on the matter of mis-identification after the sinking of the Eastland ship in Lake Michigan, Chicago, IL. At that time, more people drowned than those on the Titanic, not counting the Titanic crew. It is an engaging story and includes many of the issues related to the actual event, the rescue, the perils of the survivors and their families and insurance claims.
Lynda
Behind Closed Doors by B. A. Paris
I quickly deduced in the first few pages that no, the newlywed couple are not the perfect couple, contrary to what others believe. An absorbing, suspenseful psychological thriller.
Joanne
Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Amazing! Not sure what to say except it was a love story involving the first females in space and their quest for acceptance along with female lovers as astronauts. Loved every page!
Betty Jo
The Road to Tender Hearts by Annie Hartnett
I listened to the audiobook and the reader was fantastic. This is a laugh-out-loud story with some serious underlying themes.
Marcie
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon
This story is based on a real person, Martha Ballard, and she was a midwife in the 19th century. It was an amazing read that I could not put down until I was finished. She was the central character, but it was the story of the frozen river and the town she lived in with a murder and a rape. She takes care of her husband and her 6 children and the whole town. She was a very interesting person and the book was historical fiction, but you were able to feel that you would loved to know her.
Gretchen
The Woman in Suite 11 by Ruth Ware
THE WOMAN IN SUITE 11 was terrific. It was one of those that I couldn't put down. I admit that first I reread THE WOMAN IN CABIN 10 so that I remembered all that happened in that book. I was so glad that I did.
Agnes
This Is a Love Story by Jessica Soffer
This is the story of a couple, Abe and Jane, over the course of fifty years together. It‘s told through their time spent in New York’s Central Park. She’s a visual artist, he’s a writer. Now as Jane is dying, Abe recalls their life together as a way to keep going on. How their love and careers took shape through marriage, parenthood, and life. Throughout it all, the park bears witness to their relationship, even providing its own viewpoint. Jessica Soffer writes beautifully about all the nuances of a long love story.
Liz
The Wedding People by Alison Espach
Phoebe has just gone through a messy divorce and decides to leave her home in St. Louis and go to a luxury hotel in Newport, RI to end her life. When she arrives at the hotel, she is told the rest of the hotel has been rented out for a very luxurious wedding. Through a series of events, Phoebe meets Lila, the bride. Lila takes it upon herself to “save” Phoebe and make her an integral part of the wedding. Phoebe begins to see her life in a new perspective and begins a journey of self discovery and finding out what she truly wants in her life.
Cindi
The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
This was written in a very unique way…all written letters to different people in this woman’s life including some famous authors (Joan Didion and Ann Patchett). It is humorous and heartwarming but soul-wrenching at times. The written letter (not emails) is a lost art but relays a lot of a person’s character.
sherry
She Didn't See It Coming by Shari Lapena
I couldn't put it down!! It had me hooked from the very beginning.
Sandy
The Sirens by Emilia Hart
Very unusual story. In 2019, Lucy awakens from a dream to find her hands around her ex-boyfriend's neck. In 1892, twins Mary and Eliza fear the ocean because their mother tragically drowned when they were just girls. How Lucy and her sister Jess and Mary and Eliza are connected tells a very unusual story.
Jeanne
It’s Always Been Me by Megan Walrod
IT'S ALWAYS BEEN ME by Megan Walrod is a well-written, mesmerizing book about a woman’s journey to rediscover herself. It is a mystical, compelling, magical, and profound look into one woman’s soul as she tries to come to terms with her life’s choices and struggles to confront her dreams and gain the power, determination and strength to reclaim those dreams. I thought the author did a great job in creating and crafting the characters in a way that made them realistic, likable and relatable. This is a deeply intense and intriguing storyline that made me feel as though I was on the self-discovery journey with this woman. This is a must-read story that will stay with you for a long time. I received a copy of this book from the author.
Tonya
You Belong Here by Megan Miranda
Excellent book.
Beth
The Elements by John Boyne
THE ELEMENTS is another truly excellent book from John Boyne. Although I normally would not be interested in a book of short stories, this was more than that. Each story is connected to the last by common characters. And they all have a common theme.
Tessa
Kept: A Comedy of Sex and Manners by Y. Euny Hong
Judith Lee is descended from a Korean royal family and is used to the privileges of her status. But when her family cuts her off after she graduates, she is at a loss for how to pay off her many debts. Then she’s introduced to the madame of a house of high-society girls who are in-demand courtesans. Social satire is not my favorite genre, but there were some episodes I found quite entertaining. Not sure Jude learned anything from the experience; she still relied on men to save her from troubles of her own making.
Amy
The German Wife by Kelly Rimmer
THE GERMAN WIFE by Kelly Rimmer begins at a measured pace, making it a bit challenging to get into at first. However, patience pays off as the story gradually unfolds into a compelling and emotionally layered narrative. Once the momentum builds, it becomes clear that Rimmer has crafted a deeply human story that’s both thought-provoking and poignant.
Janet
Broken Country by Clare Leslie Hall
I found this book to be a real page-turner. The characters were nicely developed and intertwined. I was still drawing conclusions til the end.
Cindy
The Summer Getaway by Susan Mallery
This book was an easy read and had lots of twists and turns! I enjoyed it!
Marie
The Game is Afoot by Elise Bryant
Elise Bryant's cozy/comedic mysteries are filled with funny moments, one-liners from her 8-year-old daughter, realistic experiences of a BIPOC (Black, indigenous, people of color) and single, working mom.
Christina
The Listeners by Maggie Stiefvater
I enjoyed this book. It was unique. It took place during WWII and had some mystery, romance and intrigue, and a good storyline.
Christina
The Great Mann by Kyra Davis Lurie
I enjoyed this book which was a take on THE GREAT GATSBY. The story takes place in 1945 when a young African American male arrives from the southeast to LA and finds a much different world than what he grew up in. The book had a good storyline and kept my my interest.
Christina
Worth Fighting For by Jesse Q. Sutanto
This was a lighthearted romance in which a young woman tries to secure a big deal for her father’s hedge fund company. She must lure a family into selling their business and she will stop at almost nothing to get the job done. It was very entertaining!
Christina
Beach House Rules by Kristy Woodson Harvey
This was a great summer read! It had a good storyline about a group of women coming together to support each other and live in one house for the summer.
Christina
The Guest Cottage by Lori Foster
This was a sweet romance written by Lori Foster of a woman after suffering through the break up of her marriage, picking up and trying to recreate her life. While this was a romance, the story held my attention and was interesting. The story was enjoyable and well written. Another great read from this author!
Christina
It’s a Love Story by Annabel Monaghan
I liked this story. It was a romance novel that was filled with humor. A woman has to try to lure a former colleague that she sang with in her teens to write and sing a song for her in order for her to get a movie produced to secure her job. It is a good summer read.
Christina
Sounds Like Love by Ashley Poston
I thought this book was just an okay read for me. It had some fantasy in it which I am not a big fan of. A women travels back to her hometown in order to try and write a song and finds out that her family’s business, a musical venue at the beach, is struggling. She has to work with a famous singer to work on a song which leads to some romance.
Brumby
Homeseeking by Karissa Chen
Loved this story. The history. The different cultures. The importance of the names. The intrigue. I fell in love with the elderly characters and loved their origin story and how they drifted apart. And then reunited.
Christina
Consider Yourself Kissed by Jessica Stanley
I thought this was a nice romance and was told over ten years of a woman’s life. A major turnoff for me was that there was quite a bit of English politics, which I thought was more than necessary. I did fell sorry for the main character who was taken advantage of by many of the characters in this novel.
Christina
Notes on Infinity by Austin Taylor
This was a book about two college students that build a company that is built on lies. It was an interesting story and very reminiscent of the true story of Elizabeth Holmes, CEO of Theranos. It had a great plot and the characters were well developed.
Kathy
The Secret Book of Flora Lea by Patti Callahan Henry
Henry is one of my favorite authors. Learned about children during the London blitz as a single mother chooses to protect her children by sending them into the country. Older sister Hazel creates a magical world for her young sister. When Flora Lea mysteriously disappears, Hazel’s whole life changes in an never-ending search for Flora Lea. The author takes us back and forth between 1942 and 1960 with a happy surprise ending.
Jackie
The Unraveling of Julia by Lisa Scottoline
Another great story by Lisa Scottoline. Her books never disappoint. Rich character development and an immersive reader experience! Already looking forward to the next one.
Henna
Sociopath by Patric Gagne, PhD
An inside look look into the mind of a sociopath.
Caryl
Unknown Threat by Lynn H. Blackburn
Blackburn has crafted an edge-of-your seat suspense novel. I was immediately immersed into the drama. Twists and turns kept me turning the pages. These characters will linger long after turning the final page. I look forward to reading the next installment in this series.
Liz
The Accidental Favorite by Fran Littlewood
There is nothing I can say in the positive about this book. I won an audio copy and maybe that was the problem; perhaps the book needs to be read and not listened to. There were way too many characters and too much jumping back and forth in time. Since it was all read by the same person, it was hard to know which character was speaking. I do not recommend this book.
Sandy
Whistle by Linwood Barclay
Enjoyed this book very much. If you like Stephen King's books you will love this one.
Laura
The Names by Florence Knapp
Different type of read with three paths. Seeing how one event could change many people's lives.
Donna
The Idaho Four: An American Tragedy by James Patterson and Vicky Ward
THE IDAHO FOUR: AN AMERICAN TRAGEDY by James Patterson and Vicky Ward is a mesmerizing and heartbreaking account of this tragedy. I do feel that the book was written with the utmost respect and compassion. I also appreciated the fact that a large portion of the book focused on the victims and their families. Not having followed the case very closely, I did find this account of the tragedy thoroughly researched, very informative and unputdownable. Unfortunately, for the families of the victims, there are still so many questions which remain unanswered. My heart goes out to each and every one of them.
Ruthanne
While We Were Watching Downton Abbey by Wendy Wax
Such a delightful read! Highly recommend even if you haven't watched Downton Abbey. Tells the story of four neighbors who get together each week to watch the series. The author develops each character well and ties everyone's story together. If you loved Downton Abbey you will enjoy the retelling of key events as they watch the show.
Ruthanne
Coming to Rosemont by Barbara Hinske
Not worth the time. Writing was very simplistic and storyline was tired and at time hard to believe.
Terry
Insignificant Others by Sarah Jio
It's an interesting book if you like daily time travel, but I didn’t like it as much as Sarah Jio's other books.
Tessa
A Perilous Undertaking: A Veronica Speedwell Mystery by Deanna Raybourn
Book two in the Veronica Speedwell series has our heroine taking on a case at the behest of Lady Sundridge, who begs Veronica to save a man from execution. I really like this series. Veronica is quite the strong heroine. She is a naturalist who studies butterflies, but she is also an astute observer and is not prone to sit idly by when there is an injustice that needs correction. Her spats with Stoker are priceless, and I love the sexual tension between them. Veronica is NOT your typical Victorian lady! She knows what she likes and is not shy about seeking her own pleasure.
Sandy
The Tenant by Freida McFadden
I always enjoy books by Freida McFadden, and this was another great one. The endings are always unusual.
Diane
Be Ready When the Luck Happens: A Memoir by Ina Garten
This wasn't so much a full memoir than a partial section of Ina Garten's life when she met her husband and founded Barefoot Contessa. I felt it was missing a lot of her life content.
